Avon River Punting

Glide silently along the Avon River in an elegant, hand-punted flat-bottomed boat, a quintessentially Christchurch experience that feels like stepping into a bygone era. As your punter propels you with a long pole, you'll drift past weeping willows, manicured parklands, and historic stone bridges, with the Southern Alps as a distant backdrop. This is not a high-adrenaline activity but a meditative journey through the heart of the Garden City, offering a unique perspective on the city's resilience and charm.

Highlights & What to See

• Punting on the Avon – The classic 30-minute ride from the Antigua Boatsheds, passing the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and the Arts Centre.
• Christchurch Botanic Gardens – Lush, sprawling gardens with a remarkable collection of native and exotic plants, best explored on foot before or after your punt.
• Arts Centre – A vibrant hub of galleries, studios, and eateries housed in Gothic Revival buildings, just a short stroll from the river.
• Mona Vale – Another punting option on a quieter stretch of the Avon, with a historic homestead and immaculate gardens.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the punting experience itself, including boarding and disembarking. Combine it with a morning exploring the Botanic Gardens and a lunch at the Arts Centre to fill a half-day. If you're based in Hanmer Springs, it's a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Christchurch, so consider making it a day trip or an overnight stay to also enjoy the city's dining and cultural scene.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa – Unwind in natural hot pools after your punting excursion.
• Waipara Valley – New Zealand's fastest-growing wine region, perfect for a wine-tasting detour between Christchurch and Hanmer Springs.
• Kaikōura – Famous for whale watching and fresh seafood, about 2 hours north of Hanmer Springs.
• Christchurch City – Explore the rebuilt city centre, the Transitional Cathedral, and the Riverside Market.

Please check official sources for current details.