Her City: Three Women Who Shaped Ōtautahi Christchurch

Spend a day touring the homes of three iconic women who shaped Ōtautahi Christchurch's history through settlement, politics and the arts. Discover the lives and legacies of three remarkable Ōtautahi Christchurch women on this curated journey through the historic homes of Kate Sheppard, Jane Deans, and Dame Ngaio Marsh. This exclusive day-long experience takes you inside Riccarton House, Kate Sheppard House and Ngaio Marsh House - homes rich with history, character and stories. These are the places where ideas were formed, leadership and movements began, and stories and creativity flourished. Led by three expert guides, you’ll enjoy an engaging and in-depth exploration of each woman’s life and legacy, brought to life through storytelling and place. With a small group size of just 10 guests, this experience will be relaxed and immersive. What your ticket includes: • A full-day guided heritage experience • Entry to all three historic houses • Expert-led tours at each site • Small group experience with a maximum of 10 guests What’s not included: • Transport between sites (self-drive required) • Lunch (bring your own picnic or purchase lunch at Quarters Cafe at Riccarton House) Your journey begins at Kate Sheppard House, the hub and heart of Aotearoa’s women's suffrage campaign. Within this modest yet historically pivotal home, Kate Sheppard led the national movement for women's right to vote. Here, you will be able to reflect on how this place became instrumental in securing one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s defining democratic achievements. From there, you’ll continue to Riccarton House, where you’ll be guided through the home of Jane Deans: pioneering settler, businesswoman and community advocate. As you wander through her family home, you will discover how Jane's leadership and environmental stewardship helped shape early Ōtautahi Christchurch. Your final visit is to Ngaio Marsh House. Perched on the Cashmere Hills, this was the home of Dame Ngaio Marsh for more than 70 years. Preserved with original furniture, artworks and personal belongings, it offers an intimate insight into a life of extraordinary creative output. It remains a place where her presence and artistic legacy still feel vividly alive.