Riccarton Bush is the only area of podocarp forest remaining in Christchurch. The dense stands of kahikatea and the birdsong, which echoes through the bush, provide a backdrop to the restored early settlers' cottage.
Pūtaringamotu-Riccarton Bush is closed until early September 2025 while the boardwalk is being replaced.
Riccarton House and gardens remain open as per their usual hours.
We apologise for any inconvenience.
Both of these walks are great for a hot day as it winds through the shade of Riccarton Bush.
Kids can earn a Kiwi Guardian(external link) medal here.
| Te Ara Taonga Māori / Nature's Treasure Trail | Te Ara Kahikatea / Kahikatea Track | |
|---|---|---|
| Start | Riccarton House | Riccarton House |
| Finish | Riccarton House | Riccarton House |
| Distance | 460 metres | 900 metres |
| Time | 15 minutes return | 30 minutes return |
| Access | Wheelchair and pram friendly | Wheelchair and pram friendly |
| Toilets | Located near Riccarton House | Located near Riccarton House |
| Dogs | Prohibited in order to protect native wildlife | Prohibited in order to protect native wildlife |
| Description |
Starting at Riccarton House, walk around towards Deans Cottage then follow the stone path past the information board and through the wooden gate to begin your walk. This trail is well surfaced and not overly slippery, even in wet weather. There are plenty of seats located along the track, and birdsong echoes through the bush from both native and introduced birds, such as the fantail (piwakawaka), silvereye (tauhou) and grey warbler (riroriro). Riccarton Bush is the main centre of Christchurch's small resident population of wood pigeons (kereru). |
Starting at Riccarton House, walk around towards Deans Cottage then follow the stone path past the information board and through the wooden gate to begin your walk. The turn-off for this track is well signposted. On wet days the boardwalk through the bush may become slippery. Once you have completed the tranquil boardwalk track, follow the signs back to Riccarton House. The many historic exotic trees in the grounds of Riccarton House – oaks, conifers and eucalypts – were planted there during the 1850s. Get ready for this track using Plan My Walk(external link)(external link) by the NZ Mountain Safety Council. You can find track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list, so you are set for your adventure. |
| More info |
Walking tracks
Shared use
Connecting tracks
Closed
Parking
Bus stop
Toilets
Water fountains
Accessible tracks
Challenging feature
Entry and exit point
Point of interest
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