Riccarton House and Bush is a heritage reserve of about 12 hectares in Fendalton, around 3.5 km from central Christchurch, and it combines a restored historic house, ornate gardens, open parkland and a remnant of native bush bordered by the Avon River. The site was settled by the Deans family, the first Europeans on the Canterbury Plains, who arrived in 1843, and the area was known to Māori as Putaringamotu, the place of an echo. The bush is the highlight for nature lovers, because it holds kahikatea trees that are up to 600 years old, a living link to the forests that once covered the plains. Alongside the walks there is Deans Cottage, guided tours of Riccarton House and a restaurant and courtyard that serve breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and coffee. It is a calm, green place that feels far from the city centre despite being a short drive away, and it appeals to history fans, gardeners and families looking for a gentle outing.
What to do
Walk the paths through the bush first, because the old kahikatea give a rare impression of the forest that predates farming here, then move to the gardens and the house. A guided tour of Riccarton House explains the Deans family story and the heritage of the buildings, and Deans Cottage adds to the picture of early settlement. Finish with a coffee or a meal in the Drawing Room restaurant or the courtyard. Wear flat shoes for the bush paths, which can be damp, and bring a light jacket.
Planning
The tourism board lists the site as open all year, with hours given as 9 am to 4 pm, though it does not say whether those hours apply every day, so check before you go. No fee is listed for the bush walk, but tours and meals are separate costs, and the tourism board does not give tour prices or times.
The address is 16 Kahu Road, Fendalton, and you will need a short drive, taxi or bus to reach it. On Saturday mornings the Christchurch Farmers' Market is held at the house, which adds food stalls and live music but also crowds.
Fitting it in
Allow one to two hours for a walk and a coffee, and half a day if you take a tour and eat a full meal. It pairs well with a visit to Hagley Park and Mona Vale, which are close by, or with the Botanic Gardens for a green day.
It is a sensible wet-weather option only in parts, since the bush paths are outdoors, but the house and restaurant give some shelter. If you are interested in how Christchurch began, this site tells the story in a more personal way than the central museums, and it suits visitors who prefer quiet places to busy attractions.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided walk through native bush and gardens, with optional guided tours of the historic house and meals in the on-site restaurant.
Best time
Visit in the morning for quiet paths, or on a Saturday morning if you want the farmers market.
How long
One to two hours for the walk, up to half a day with a tour and a meal.
Tips
Wear flat shoes for damp bush paths, check opening hours and budget separately for tours and food.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History fans, gardeners and families who want a quiet green outing.
- Families
- Easy for children, with paths, grounds to explore and a cafe-style stop.
- Couples
- Peaceful gardens and a leisurely lunch make a relaxed date.
- Pair with
- Pair it with Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens for a green day.
- Time needed
- One to three hours.
Good questions
Where is Riccarton House and Bush?+
It is at 16 Kahu Road in Fendalton, about 3.5 km from the city centre.
Is it free to visit?+
No fee is listed for the bush and grounds. Guided tours and meals are separate costs.
How old are the trees?+
The kahikatea in the bush are up to 600 years old.
Can I eat there?+
Yes. Meals, coffee and afternoon tea are served in the Drawing Room restaurant and the courtyard.
Is there a market?+
The Christchurch Farmers' Market is held at the house on Saturday mornings.
