An iconic Christchurch activity not to be missed. Admire the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens or the changing face of the city centre as you are expertly guided gently along the Avon River on our authentic Edwardian punting tours.
Summer or winter, glide along the tranquil Avon River in Christchurch, as a skilled punter in traditional Edwardian attire propels you slowly along the water.
Our Avon River punting tours are set aboard handcrafted flat-bottomed boats, poled along by your punter from the platformed till at the rear end of the boat. An ideal group or family activity, punting on the Avon is an eco-friendly way to relax and enjoy Christchurch from a different perspective.
From our Park departure point travel leisurely from the historic Antigua Boat sheds, through the Botanic Gardens, and enjoy the spectacular flora that our ‘Garden City’ is famous for. Alternatively, our Mona Vale departure point takes you around the historic Mona Vale estate, meandering through a beautiful interpretation of a classic English garden (Mona Vale available during weekends only during summer). The return trip from either departure point takes approximately 30 minutes.
Please note that all standard punt rides are shared rides. For customers wishing to take a private punt ride, please enquire about our exclusive 45 minute private tour.
Putting Gallery
Open Hours
Summer: 9am – 6pm (1st October to 31st March)
Winter: 10am – 4pm (1st April to 30th September)
Park Landing Site: Antigua Boat Sheds, 2 Cambridge Terrace
Mona Vale Landing Site: Mona Vale Homestead, Mona Vale Avenue (please note this site is currently closed for winter)
Mona Vale Landing Site Hours
October to November – Weekends Only
December to February`- 7 Days per week
March & April – Weekends Only
May to September – Closed
(max 6 per ride)
Christchurch City Landing Site: Worcester Bridge, Worcester Street (please note this site is currently closed)
What you need to know
Please ensure that you arrive at the right location when your punt ride has been pre-arranged. Please note that bookings are recommended.
Our Park punts hold up to 10 people. For groups of more than 10 people, bookings are highly recommended. Punting on the Avon suits all ages. For safety reasons, children must be accompanied by a paying adult. We supply blankets, umbrellas and even hot water bottles in winter, so you feel snug if it gets chilly.
You enter and leave the punt by stepping on to a secure platform, and please note that punts are quite low to the ground. Higher seats are available on some punts at the Park branch on request. Dress warmly on the day you go punting, and wear comfortable shoes.
Please note that children are classed as being from 5 – 15 years of age. All infants aged under 5 years must be seated beside an adult in the punt.
Daily Photos – download your photos by clicking the grey Daily Photos button on the right side of the webpage (or at the bottom of the page if using a mobile browser). Please note that you will require your unique photo codes included in your photo pack, and please feel free to contact us if you have any queries.
Book your Avon River Punting activity online today!
