Walk through history in the middle of Christchurch
Riccarton House and Pūtaringamotu Bush in Christchurch, New Zealand, is a unique heritage site encompassing historic buildings, parkland, gardens, and an ancient podocarp forest with kahikatea trees up to 600 years old.
Ecological Enhancement
Guided Bush Walks
Step Into History
Connection with nature in the heart of Christchurch
We need your help to protect, conserve and enhance Pūtaringamotu Riccarton Bush.
Your visit to Riccarton House
Come and visit Riccarton House & Bush, located only 3.5 kilometres from Christchurch City Centre.
Riccarton House
Take a guided tour of Riccarton House and see an interpretation of a house and family built in 1881.
Riccarton Bush
This ancient forest, accessible to the public free of charge during daylight hours, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty.
Deans Cottage
Visit the historic Deans Cottage, constructed in 1843 by Samuel Manson for the pioneering Scottish settlers, William, and John Deans.
What our visitors say
We've had hundreds of Kiwi's and travellers from further abroad visit Riccarton House & Bush.
Riccarton House has a cafe and function rooms. With lovely outlook. Always a pleasant place to visit with cycle/walking trail through the garden. Then you can cycle to the Canterbury university on more cycle routes. There is also a protected forest walk.
Beautiful place with a calming atmosphere. Would have no idea you are in a big city once you are on the walking track. Very well maintained track for all ages. The markets on Sat morning are a big must! Fresh veges, flowers, breads, meat and many more plus a good number of hot food options
I highly recommend a guided tour through the Riccarton House. It is done by John Hoskin. He was born in 1937 and is such a great person who combines fantastic knowledges with a brilliant sense of humour, so that is an absolute pleasure to follow his words and get part of the journey to the past and learn about the historic and familiarly background.
