An ecological enhancement project in the middle of the city

Areas of the boardwalk are starting to fail, and the concrete paths have become displaced and uneven and are creating a tripping hazard. We need your support.

Our story in numbers

Riccarton Bush was gifted to the people of Christchurch by the Deans Family in 1914.

75,000+
Yearly visitors
1500+
Guided tours given
600years
Oldest tree
4000+
Trees planted

Our story

Learn more about the story behind Pūtaringamotu Riccarton House & Bush

Unique Heritage Site

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.

The reserve is home to a variety of native and introduced birds on a tranquil 12-hectare reserve, situated just 3.5 km from Christchurch City Centre.

A mission to make native bush  accessible

Visitors can freely explore the grounds and bush during specific hours, with the bush open from 6.00am to 6.30pm daily and the grounds from 6.00am to 7.00pm.

Bookings are essential to view the house on a Guided tour.

Book your tour

The great values behind our trust

The Riccarton House & Bush Trust is committed to preserving this stunning heritage site in the heart of Christchurch.

Protect & Enhance
Flora & Fauna

Protect and enhance the indigenous flora and fauna of the indigenous forest, including mahinga kai and taonga species.

Promote the Natural & Cultural Heritage

Protect and conserve Riccarton House and Deans Cottage and their Grounds.

Protect & Enhance
House & Cottage

Promote the natural and cultural heritage values of the Riccarton Bush property/Pūtaringamotu.

Increase Visitation to House & Bush

Increase visitation to The Riccarton Bush, Riccarton House, Deans Cottage and their Grounds.

Our team

The team behind Riccarton House & Bush that keeps things ticking along.

Manager

Shona Willis

Shona is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the House and leading the amazing team that make sure the House, Bush and Grounds are in the best possible condition.

Ranger

Michael Steenson

As the Ranger of Pūtaringamotu Riccarton Bush, he seeks to improve native biodiversity across Christchurch through education, community involvement and outreach, and networking with the various conservation entities.

Visitor Experience Coordinator

Tracey Kitchingman

Tracey is our Visitor Experience Coordinator and looks after all things front of house, bookings, our Guides, and social media. She is passionate about customer service and showcasing Riccarton House.

Gardener

Alan Bowles

Alan, who is City and Guilds qualified,  joined the Riccarton Bush Trust in 2007 and has spent his time restoring the grounds and gardens back to its former glory, resembling an early Edwardian garden.