Riccarton Park Racecourse (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Riccarton Park Racecourse?
What makes it 66% Kids-Friendly: Kids enjoy free bouncy castles on family racedays and the Sunday market inflatables, but gambling focus, alcohol areas and limited shade mean parents must supervise closely.
Positives:
- Free entry and entertainment: Entry to the Sunday Market and Family Fun Raceday is free, with live music and activities at no cost.
- Stroller-friendly grounds: Flat grass and gravel paths allow easy stroller access across the racecourse and market.
- Open lawns for picnics: Bring a blanket to picnic beside the track or under trees near the market.
Challenges:
- Food and crafts cost extra: While entry is free, budget for market food stalls and souvenir purchases.
- Unpredictable weather: Grounds can get muddy after rain; pack waterproofs and shoes with grip.
What is Riccarton Park Racecourse?
- A historic thoroughbred horse racing venue founded in 1854 on Christchurch’s western suburban fringe
- A one-mile turf circuit complemented by grandstands, members’ facilities, and administrative buildings
- A site that merges 19th-century architectural elements with contemporary trackside amenities and event infrastructure
What is so special about Riccarton Park Racecourse for with kids?
- Explore 200+ Sunday Market stalls with free entry and live music
- Enjoy giant inflatables and face painting at Family Fun Raceday
- Join colouring, relays and meet mascots in Kids Go Racing zones
- Picnic on open lawns and let kids roam safely
- Flat, stroller-friendly paths and free entertainment
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to explore the Sunday Market, enjoy the inflatable playground and join Family Fun Raceday activities without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Riccarton Park Racecourse
Riccarton Sunday Market:
Stroll 200+ stalls of fresh produce, crafts and street food.
Tip: Arrive at 9 am to beat crowds, bring cash for small vendors and let kids play on the giant inflatables.
Family Fun Raceday:
Enjoy free bouncy castle, face painting and lawn games.
Tip: Check event dates online, bring sunscreen and a change of clothes for kids.
Kids Go Racing:
Join colouring competitions, relays and meet race mascots during major festivals.
Tip: Book race day tickets early and head to the designated kids’ zone on arrival.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Riccarton Park Racecourse
- Arrive early: Get the best spot near the inflatables and beat the crowds to popular stalls.
- Bring cash: Some vendors don’t accept cards and ATMs can get busy on market days.
- Pack layers: Morning chill gives way to warm afternoons; a light jacket can be stored easily.
Reviews of Riccarton Park Racecourse
K J Murphy
Top day - excellent fields & racing - still a bit jetlaged after 36 hr ordeal getting over from remote WA.- travelling since 6 am Thursday !! - So missed the first 4 races Even hot for someone from sunbaKed/hot WA - more intense/burning sun over here - apparently caused by the big hole in the ozone layer over southern NZ !!
sarah crooks
Great market on Sundays,live music ,awesome array of food and imagination station for the kiddies .
Tadashi R T
The Sunday Market is fantastic, plenty of food and other stuffs to buy. I recommend the booth "Brazil In a Box", there you can find the finest street food that can be commonly found in Brazil... but in New Zealand. Plenty of parking spaces but they are on grass and can be very muddy on rainy days.
Dennis Rollings
Fabulous place to play 18 hole golf with my wife's grandson Thoroughly enjoyed and recommend
JT
Beautiful racetrack & a stunning place to visit . During my recent trip to NZ I visited as many racetracks as I could along the way . This particular track is a standout and a close tie with Ellerslie for me . Hats off to the curator & grounds staff .
When is the best time to visit Riccarton Park Racecourse (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
The Sunday Market runs every Sunday year-round. In summer, stalls open longer and music starts earlier. Winter mornings can feel cold—bring layers and waterproofs. Check the events calendar for School Holiday Family Fun Raceday dates.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Coffee and drinks | NZD 10 |
| Lunch at food stalls | NZD 30 |
| Kids crafts and toys | NZD 10 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 50 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Riccarton Park Racecourse
Address: 165 Racecourse Road, Sockburn, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand
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About Riccarton Park Racecourse
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