Christchurch heritage on display

By HEATHER RAMSAY

Riccarton House and Bush in Christchurch cover almost 12ha of native forest, parkland and historic buildings bordering the Avon River.

Guided tours of the 1856 homestead give an insight into early life in Canterbury through the history of the Deans family, the Scottish pioneers who were the original owners. Deans Cottage, built in 1843, is the oldest pioneer's building on the Canterbury Plains.

Riccarton House offers tours at 10am and 2pm on weekdays and on Sundays at 2pm. The licensed cafe is open 10am-4pm daily. It's at 16 Kahu Rd, Riccarton.

Contact: (03) 341 1018

Riccarton House