Heritage Festival Guided Tour at Riccarton House
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; involves walking indoors and climbing stairs to the first floor.
Overview
Step inside Riccarton House for a guided journey through Christchurch’s pioneering past. Discover over 20 restored rooms that reveal the daily lives of the Deans family and the city’s colonial roots.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive 10 minutes before your tour start to check in and browse Riccarton House’s historic shop.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The guided tour includes walking through historical rooms with some stairs to climb—choose supportive footwear.
Limited Accessibility Upstairs
Be aware that access to the first floor requires stairs; it may not be suitable for those with mobility concerns.
Book in Advance
Tours have a maximum of 15 participants and fill quickly during festival season — reserve your spot ahead of time.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Tūī
- Pūkeko
History
Riccarton House was built in 1856 by the Deans family, early European settlers who preserved one of the few remaining native kahikatea forests in Christchurch.
Conservation
Efforts to maintain Riccarton Bush alongside the homestead protect native species and preserve this rare lowland forest within a growing urban area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes help navigate the tour’s indoor flooring and stairs comfortably.
Light rain jacket
Spring showers can occur, so a packable jacket is advisable for outdoor sections.
spring specific
Layered clothing
Temperatures inside and outside may vary, so layers keep you comfortable throughout the visit.
Camera or smartphone
Capture stunning architectural details and moments inside Riccarton House and surrounding bush.