A Settler and a Suffragist: Homes of Christchurch's Pioneering Women

Celebrate Christchurch Heritage Festival with an experience to remember at Riccarton House and Kate Sheppard House.

Start your day at Riccarton House with a fascinating tour of the grand mansion with an expert guide. Hear the stories of Canterbury’s pioneering Deans family, with a focus on Jane Deans.

Enjoy lunch from 12.15pm at the Riccarton House Café or a nearby establishment.

Then, make your way to Kate Sheppard House by 1.30pm to explore the epicentre of western feminism. Enjoy an in-depth introduction, then explore at your leisure. Finish off with a delightful afternoon tea in the event spaces of the house.

Although a generation apart, Jane Deans and Kate Sheppard were integral figures in early Canterbury’s colonial history. Jane Deans helped create a society that recognised the capabilities of women through her resilience and community involvement. Kate Sheppard, led the suffrage movement to success, securing the right to vote for women and setting an example for future generations of women's rights activists.

Bookings are essential.

Schedule

10.50am: Arrive at Riccarton House and check in

11am - 12.15pm: Guided tour

12.15pm: Lunch break

1.30pm: Arrive at Kate Sheppard House for your introduction and self-guided tour

2.15pm: Afternoon tea served

3 .00pm: Event end

All tours and introductions start at the time specified.

Christchurch Heritage Festival runs from 12th -28th October.

Host or Publisher Kate Sheppard House