Riccarton Bush Pūtaringamotu is a 7.8-hectare remnant Kahikatea Forest situated just 3km from the city centre of Christchurch. Gates are open during daylight hours and public access during these times is free. Come and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of being in a native forest that has trees that are up to 600 years old. There is nearly 900 metres of tracks to enjoy with it all being flat and accessible to most. As you wind your way through this ancient forest be sure to keep and eye and an ear out for the numerous native birds that call this place home, such as: Kereru/Wood Pigeon, Korimako/Bellbird, Piwakawaka/Fantail, and Riroriro/Grey Warbler. These birds, as well as native insects and geckos are here largely because Riccarton Bush is surrounded by a predator-proof fence.