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Punting on the Avon

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Punting on the Avon

Experience the best garden and urban scenery in Christchurch from the calm waters of the River Avon.

Sit back and enjoy the relaxing experience of Punting on the Avon. Look at the bright, blossoming gardens, attractive bridges and views across the city as you glide gently over the water in a flat-bottomed boat guided by a punter poling down the stream. Ask your guide about the areas you see and learn about the history of Christchurch from the comfort of the boat’s soft, velvet seats.

Set off along the Avon with an Edwardian punter guiding you slowly past a mixture of city landmarks and peaceful woodland. To either side of you grassy banks meet the water while weeping willows reach out above your head. Pass beneath historic stone bridges and watch as people play and relax in sun-drenched parkland.

A highlight of the trip is the boat’s pass through Christchurch’s famous Botanic Gardens. Displays of bright flowers stand out from the green shrubs while aquatic plants poke their heads above the waterline. Identify a range of native and exotic plants and catch a glimpse of the famous greenhouses.

Farther downriver boats pass through the heart of the city. Look on as people bustle along the streets and view the city’s skyline. As you glide across the water your guide will point out landmarks and explain how the river has played an influential role in the development of Christchurch. The trip provides an interesting perspective on the various rebuilding projects underway after the devastating 2010 earthquake.

Punting on the Avon trips depart from two locations along the river. Launch from the historic Antigua Boat Shed and head off past the Botanic Gardens and North Hagley Park or go from Worcester Street Bridge through the city. All tours last approximately 30 minutes. Boats can accommodate up to 10 people. Couples and families are welcome although it is worth booking ahead if you are coming with a large group. The admission fee includes commentary from your guide as well as use of blankets, umbrellas and hot water bottles depending on weather conditions.

Guide to Exploring Punting on the Avon

Mona Vale

Stroll around idyllic riverside gardens filled with roses, irises and other plantings and take a break on the lush green lawns at this public park.

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New Brighton Beach

Surf, spot birdlife, walk across wild sand dunes and shop for handmade goods at a weekly market at this sandy beach and coastal suburb.

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Sumner Beach

The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.

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International Antarctic Centre

Take a trip to Antarctica to see the animals that live there and hear tales of the intrepid travellers who risked their lives to explore it.

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Lyttelton Harbour

Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.

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Canterbury Museum

Discover arctic cold, visit indigenous New Zealand and journey back to the age of the dinosaurs at this extensive museum.  

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Cave Rock

Discover the mysterious mythical back-story of this rugged volcanic rock that sits in the pretty seaside suburb of Sumner.

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Botanic Gardens

With miles of open lawns and vibrant flower beds, this serene area of parkland ensures Christchurch’s reputation as a garden city.

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Christchurch Gondola

Cruise past shimmering blue lakes and snow-capped mountains on your way to the top of Mount Cavendish.

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Victoria Square

Regal statues, a Māori monument and a historic bridge decorate this serene public park set on the banks of the Avon River.

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Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Get up-close to a range of animals and spot the elusive kiwi bird at this area of tranquil forestland.

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Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu

Browse exhibitions of works by artists from New Zealand and around the world displayed in the halls of a striking glass-fronted building.

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Bridge of Remembrance

Walk across this important stone bridge, which pays homage to the Christchurch residents that served in the two world wars.

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Mount Cavendish

Standing imposingly beside Christchurch, this mountain in the Port Hills is a breathtaking sight. The views from the top are simply sublime.

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Re:START Mall

Find the latest fashions and an assortment of traditional New Zealand artwork along with superb food and drink at this unusual modern shopping centre.

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Cardboard Cathedral

Marvel at this modern symbol of resilience, admire its innovative design or get in touch with your spiritual side in Christchurch’s unique house of worship.

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New Regent Street

Take a tram ride, go shopping and sit at a café with views of this picturesque pedestrianized street in Christchurch.

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Map

Top Punting on the Avon Hotel & Accommodation Deals

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Rendezvous Hotel Christchurch NZ$134

Per night/room

29 May - 30 May

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Rendezvous Hotel Christchurch

Rendezvous Hotel Christchurch

166 Gloucester Street, Christchurch
     
    4.5 out of 5.0 Stars

    Located in Christchurch City Centre, this luxury hotel is within a 10-minute walk of New Regent Street and Christchurch Casino. Christchurch Public Hospital and Hagley Park are also within 1 mile (2 km).

    The George Christchurch NZ$209

    Per night/room

    27 May - 28 May

    See details
     
    The George Christchurch

    The George Christchurch

    50 Park Terrace, Christchurch
       
      5.0 out of 5.0 Stars

      Located in Christchurch City Centre, this luxury hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Christchurch Casino, Christ's College and Canterbury Museum. Punting on the Avon and Christchurch Botanic Gardens are also within 15 minutes.

      Chateau on the Park - Christchurch, a DoubleTree by Hilton NZ$149

      Per night/room

      27 May - 28 May

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      Chateau on the Park - Christchurch, a DoubleTree by Hilton

      Chateau on the Park - Christchurch, a DoubleTree by Hilton

      189 Deans Ave, Riccarton, Christchurch
         
        4.0 out of 5.0 Stars

        Located in Riccarton, this hotel is within 1 mi (2 km) of Hagley Park and Christchurch Public Hospital. Christchurch Casino and University of Canterbury are also within 3 mi (5 km). Christchurch Railway Station is 24 minutes by foot.

        Colombo in the City NZ$140

        Per night/room

        26 May - 27 May

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        Colombo in the City

        Colombo in the City

        863 Colombo St, Christchurch
           
          3.5 out of 5.0 Stars

          Located in Christchurch City Centre, this motel is within 1 mi (2 km) of Theatre Royal and Canterbury Museum. Riccarton House and University of Canterbury are also within 6 mi (10 km).

          Rydges Latimer Christchurch NZ$127

          Per night/room

          7 Jun. - 8 Jun.

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          Rydges Latimer Christchurch

          Rydges Latimer Christchurch

          30 Latimer Square, Christchurch
             
            4.5 out of 5.0 Stars

            Located in Christchurch City Centre, this luxury hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Cardboard Cathedral and Christchurch Casino. Christchurch Public Hospital and Hagley Park are also within 2 miles (3 km).

            BreakFree on Cashel NZ$71

            Per night/room

            26 May - 27 May

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            BreakFree on Cashel

            BreakFree on Cashel

            165 Cashel Street, Christchurch
               
              3.0 out of 5.0 Stars

              Located in Christchurch City Centre, this hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Re:START Mall and Christchurch Casino. Christchurch Public Hospital and Hagley Park are also within 1 mile (2 km).

              Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square NZ$143

              Per night/room

              16 Jun. - 17 Jun.

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              Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square

              Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square

              50 Cathedral Square, Christchurch
                 
                4.5 out of 5.0 Stars

                Located in Christchurch City Centre, this luxury hotel is within a 10-minute walk of Theatre Royal and Christchurch Casino. Canterbury Museum and Riccarton House are also within 3 mi (5 km).

                ibis Christchurch NZ$118

                Per night/room

                16 Jun. - 17 Jun.

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                ibis Christchurch

                ibis Christchurch

                107 Hereford St, Christchurch
                   
                  3.5 out of 5.0 Stars

                  Located in Christchurch City Centre, this hotel is steps away from Christchurch I-SITE, Cashel Mall and Bridge of Remembrance. Theatre Royal and Canterbury Earthquake Memorial are also within 10 minutes.

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