Punting on the Avon River Christchurch

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Punting on the Avon River

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Highlights

30 minute Punting tour in Christchurch
See the Botanic Gardens from the Avon River
Departs from the Antigua Boat Sheds
Knowledgeable & informative guides

Description

Picture those romantic Edwardian era paintings of young lovers in a punt, being propelled along an idyllic river by a punter at the stern. It’s truly a lovely thought isn’t it? Now you can experience it for yourself with Christchurch Punting on the Avon!

Since its inception in 1986, Punting on the Avon has been a must-do for locals and tourists of all ages. Young lovers, long-married couples, families, friends and individuals have all contributed to making this one of Christchurch’s most iconic and much loved attractions.

From the character-filled historic Antigua Boatshed Landing, you will hop aboard one of the low-seated, velvet cushioned punts (high seats can be installed if this is more comfortable for you – just ask). Then, your Edwardian dressed punter – resplendent in a striped blazer and braces, complete with a ‘boater’ straw hat – will stand on a platform at the end of your boat and skilfully propel you along with a long pole.

While you get comfortable or snuggle up in the luxurious seats, you will enjoy amazing river-level views of the beautiful leafy banks, woodlands and trailing willows of the Botanic Gardens.
Whether it is summer or winter, the scenery is always spectacular as you are quietly pushed along this peaceful and picturesque river. With the sun glinting from the sparkling waters and ducklings bobbing for food, you can take stunning pictures, wave at the friendly people picnicking on the shore, whisper sweet nothings into your partners ear or simply relax and let your troubles drift away. Punting is an absolutely perfect way to see the beautiful Avon River and the amazing Botanical Gardens, and it is something you will remember forever!

Christchurch Punting on the Avon supply blankets, umbrellas and hot water bottles so that you are snug and comfortable, whether it is warm or cold.

Trip Includes

30 minute punting experience
Each punt is equipped with blankets & large umbrellas
Hot water bottles (if required in the cold)
Authentic Edwardian punter, dressed in a striped blazer, braces & wearing the straw hat

Duration

Allow 1 hour (30 minutes punting time)

Departures

Regular departures between 9:00am to 3:30pm (additional 4:30pm departure in summer Oct-Mar)
Departs from Antigua Boat Sheds, 2 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch
Operates daily all year

Other Information

Child rates apply (5-15yrs)
Infants (0-4yrs) are free of charge
Dress warmly on the day you go punting & wear comfortable shoes
Maximum of 36 people over 5 punts
Private hire can be arranged. Please contact us for a quote

Normal Retail Prices

Adult: NZD$42.00
Child (5-15yrs): NZD$30.00
Family (2 adults & 1-3 children): NZD$130.00

All prices shown in NZD$.

Genuine Customer Reviews powered by

Service rating:

Our booking was cancelled and other options provided which we took up.
Punting on the Avon was great.

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A beautiful punt along the river with expert commentary by Chris. Would definitely recommend for anyone.

Reviewed 21-Oct-2025

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Great experience, relaxing with a very informative guide.

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Reviewed 27-Jul-2025

A must do in Christchurch . Booked on line staff were very helpful.

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Reviewed 02-Feb-2025

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The staff were very friendly and helpful, and the punting was a lot of fun. I'd definitely recommend it.

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Reviewed 22-Jan-2025

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Was such a beautiful and relaxing way to finish our first day. Our punter Chris was very knowledgeable, friendly and made for an enjoyable experience

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Very easy and straightforward purchase

Reviewed 02-Jul-2023

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Really lovely experience with a fun punter.

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Easy to do but required a phone call from the company to change the time.

Reviewed 19-Jan-2023

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Everyone was very charming and helpful, and we enjoyed the whole experience.

Product rating:

As I stated earlier, everyone was very helpful, and the young man who did the punting was most efficient, and knowledgeable.

Reviewed 27-Dec-2022

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Lovely relaxing punt down the Avon through botanical gardens with great guide

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Lovely relaxing hour very informative guide

Reviewed 02-Nov-2022

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Easy to use website that made it possible for us to book even the night before- that meant we didn’t miss out on doing the punting on the Avon which we really wanted to do. Thank you!

Reviewed 09-Jan-2019

Does punting still runs when it is raining. What happen if that is the case and whether we can still use it for other timing or a refund?

0 comments - Post a Comment

Does the Punting on the Avon do anything special for Valetines day?

Comments

Punting on the Avon does not do anything different on Valentine, however in saying that it is still a very romantic thing to do for Valentine's day and you could always bring your own picnic onto the boat to make it even more special if you want

Comment by: ETG on 5th Feb 21 at 11:36

1 comment - Post a Comment

Are you able to do the punting if you have a walking stick?

Comments

Yes, you do need to embark and disembark the boat, however the staff are amazing and will be able to assist.

Comment by: Shelley - Everything Travel Group on 28th Jan 19 at 08:29

1 comment - Post a Comment

How much is a child under 5

Comments

Children under 5 years of age travel for free on the punting on the Avon in Christchurch.

Comment by: Everything Travel Group (Callum) on 25th Apr 17 at 15:33

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