Pioneers House and Homestead Experience

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

What you will visit:

Riccarton House
In 1843, the pioneering Deans family became the first Europeans to settle the Canterbury Plains. Riccarton House, their exquisite Victorian/Edwardian homestead, was created in three separate stages-1856, 1874 and 1900-and today is a sprawling 12-hectare compound that showcases two heritage buildings, manicured grounds and a beautiful setting overlooking the Avon River and native bush forest populated with 600-year-old kahikatea trees. A tour of the property takes visitors back to the bygone days and introduces this family's dramatic story of endurance and survival and the legacy they left behind.

Homebush Family Farm
Situated in Darfield, a quaint town in the Malvern farming region, Homebush Family Farm was first planted in the 1850s and over the years has been developed by the Deans family. This working sheep and cattle farm boasts 1,350 acres with 250 acres in magnificent trees, many registered for their significance. Many of the original farm structures remain, including the stables, woolshed and apple house, classified as
Category One by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. Visitors can watch sheep-shearing and spinning demonstrations, walk through the heritage gardens and immerse themselves in the farming culture of yesteryear.

What you will see along the way:

As you make your way back to port after your rural adventures, you'll be treated to a short city tour of Christchurch. Admire the rebuilding that has strengthened the city since the 2011 earthquake and view such top attractions as the Cathedral Square, the Avon River, the Margaret Mahy Family Playground, the Earthquake Memorial Wall, the Transitional Cardboard Cathedral and many more along the way.

Lunch:
You'll refresh during your day with a home-cooked, typical Kiwiana lunch.