Ferrymead owes its importance in history to the hills dividing Christchurch from the port of Lyttelton. Pioneers transported their goods over the steep Bridle Path from Lyttelton to Heathcote, where punts were used to cross the river into early Christchurch. Later traffic came by sea up the estuary. In 1863, the first railway in New Zealand was opened, running from Ferrymead into central Christchurch. This railway line was the inspiration for Ferrymead Heritage Park and the restored railway line follows part of the route today.
Ferrymead Park features an early 1900s (Edwardian) township and the park has a variety of restored cottages plus a school house, church and businesses which reflect the period and allow visitors to experience life for the early residents of Christchurch including the smell of a coal range and the sounds of a tram rattling past the door.
There is a large array of heritage exhibitions and displays that are open for viewing, particularly on Sundays. These displays are owned and operated by individual societies and manned by their volunteers. They have restored and displayed their collections for you to enjoy and these include tractors, fire engines, aeroplanes, trams, trains, cars, printing, post and telegraph, model railway, photography and much much more. If you are interested in a particular society's display, please contact the society in advance of your visit, to ensure that volunteers will be on site.
Trams run on the weekends and are not included in general admission. Tickets can be purchased from reception.
Ferrymead Alive runs on the first Sunday of every month. Tickets are not included in general admission and can be purchased from Moorhouse Station inside the park.
Ferrymead Night Market runs first Saturday of every month excluding Jan and winter months. $2 Entry. Tram and Train ride additional.
Spring Night Market $2 entry per person. Our amazing heritage park open to the public. Come and ride the Tram and the F13 Steam Train. Delicious international food vendors in the park, craft beer & cider, craft stall holders, live music and Strawberry Fairy will be face painting in the park. We now have a barber onsite! Cash required for tram, steam train, some stalls and face painting. Furry friends are welcome on a leash. Look forward to seeing you there!
It's the school holidays and this Sunday the Railcar RM51 train will be operating to take you and your family on a ride in Ferrymead. The tram will also be running, so make your way to Ferrymead Heritage Park to experience a fun time at this historic park, there is so much to see and do. The old jail and beautiful church, the aeronautical displays and amazing Rural history over the tracks to name a few.
It's Extravaganza time for one day only at Ferrymead Heritage Park during Labour Weekend. Enjoy unlimited rides on the double decker trams, explore the Park and its many activities and exhibits, from fire engines, aeroplanes, tractors and model railroad, to experiencing telecommunication through the ages. Visit the Blacksmith, Print Shop, School House, Jail, Theatre, Playground and early century cottages. Face Painting, Ponies and Petting Zoo, Food and more. The Steam Locomotives will be running also. Admission price includes all attractions except the train, food and beverages. Tickets available now from Eventfinda and at the door.
Enjoy the last day of your Labour Weekend with us by riding on our Steam Locomotives with your family and friends. The tram will also be running, so make your way to Ferrymead Heritage Park to experience a fun time at this historic park, there is so much to see and do. The old jail and beautiful church, the aeronautical displays and amazing Rural history over the tracks to name a few.
Ferrymead Heritage Park has several facilities that can be hired for functions including weddings and parties. These include the following:
- Heritage Church (Chapel)
- Friendly Societies Lodge Hall
- Heritage Railway Station
- Coronation Park
- Heritage Rose Garden
- Wedding Tram/ Birthday Tram
- Photo shoots
