The Riccarton House Tree Trail: A Living Legacy of Canterbury’s Past

Discover a unique collection of historic trees, each with a story to tell, tracing Canterbury’s botanical heritage and the legacy of Riccarton House.

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Step Back in Time with Every Leaf and Branch

The Riccarton House Tree Trail is more than just a walk through nature—it’s a journey through history. Nestled within the heritage grounds of Riccarton House and Bush, this curated collection of trees tells the story of Canterbury’s early European settlers, their botanical ambitions, and the rich natural heritage of New Zealand. Each tree has a tale to tell, from those planted by the pioneering Deans family in the mid-19th century to rare international specimens brought from across the world.

English Oak

Quercus robur

Planted in 1849, these are possibly the oldest English Oaks in Canterbury. They were a donation from the then governor Sir George Grey. It is possible that they travelled via the tip of South Africa as they are known by the Deans family as the 'Cape Oaks'.

English Oak

Quercus robur

The Oak is the most represented tree in the grounds, and we have several different varieties. The English Oak is the most prominent and this is probably the best example, despite some storm damage to its northern side.

Golden Elm

Ulmus procera

This is currently the youngest tree on our list, but it is a very attractive and distinctive specimen. It bears lime green seed heads followed by yellow/ green leaves, making it stand out from the trees around it.

A Victorian Passion for Trees

During the 1800s, it was fashionable for grand estates to have exotic trees imported from around the globe, often planted near the home to showcase wealth and status.

Many of the trees on this trail reflect this tradition, forming part of what was once known as the "Gentlemen’s Arboretum"—a place where Victorian landowners would stroll and discuss business under the shade of impressive conifers and oaks.

A Walk Through History

This trail is not just a collection of trees—it’s a living museum, a place where history, horticulture, and conservation meet.

Many of these trees have seen generations pass, witnessed the evolution of Riccarton House, and continue to provide shelter, shade, and inspiration to visitors today.

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Highlights of the Tree Trail

From towering Victorian-era conifers to rare heritage fruit trees, each specimen tells a story of Canterbury’s past. Wander through this living arboretum and marvel at trees that have stood for over a century, offering shade, beauty, and a glimpse into the lives of those who planted them.

Ancient Oaks and a Scottish Connection

Among the oldest trees on the property are the English Oaks (Quercus robur), planted in 1849 and believed to be among the first of their kind in Canterbury. These mighty trees were a gift from Sir George Grey, and the Deans family knew them as the “Cape Oaks,” likely because they travelled via South Africa before reaching New Zealand.

A Forgotten Orchard and a Record-Holding Pear

Among the trees, remnants of the Deans family’s orchard still survive. The ‘Beurre Diel’ Pear (Pyrus communis ‘Beurre Diel’), thought to be the oldest planted tree in Christchurch, continues to bear fruit despite its age and surroundings. Nearby, the ‘Jargonelle’ Pear (Pyrus communis) may be the tallest pear tree in New Zealand, its branches still heavy with sweet summer fruit.

Unusual and Exotic Specimens

The Indian Bean Tree (Catalpa bignonioides), native to the American South, showcases heart-shaped leaves and elegant late-summer flowers, adding a distinctive charm to the gardens. The Spanish Fir (Abies pinsapo), planted in 1894, is a rare and striking tree in New Zealand, with its vibrant blue-green needles arranged radially around its branches. Among the younger trees on the trail, the Golden Elm (Ulmus procera ‘Louis van Houtte’) captivates visitors with its bright yellow-green foliage and eye-catching lime-green seed heads.