Punting on the Avon River Christchurch – Scenic Boat Tours
Updated: 18 th May 2026
Punting on the Avon River Christchurch – Scenic Boat Tours
Punting on the Avon is one of Christchurch’s most iconic and relaxing activities, offering a peaceful guided boat ride along the Avon River through the city’s leafy gardens and historic central area. Departing from the famous Antigua Boat Sheds, this classic Christchurch experience combines Edwardian-style charm, gentle river scenery and easy sightseeing for couples, families and visitors of all ages.
Choose a shared or private punt ride, sit back under a blanket, and enjoy a unique view of Christchurch from the water as your punter guides the flat-bottomed boat along the river. It’s a gentle, family-friendly activity that works well on its own or as part of a Christchurch sightseeing day, especially when combined with the tram, gondola or other city attractions.
Relax on a Classic Avon River Punt from the Antigua Boat Sheds
Experience one of Christchurch’s most iconic attractions with a relaxing punt ride along the Avon River. Departing from the historic Antigua Boat Sheds, these guided flat-bottom boat tours offer a peaceful way to explore the city’s beautiful gardens, riverside scenery and changing city landscape from the water.
A Scenic Christchurch Experience on the Avon River
Glide quietly beneath weeping willow trees and alongside the Christchurch Botanic Gardens as your expert punter shares stories about the city, the Avon River and Christchurch’s ongoing transformation. The gentle pace and classic Edwardian-style boats make punting on the Avon one of the most relaxing things to do in Christchurch.
Perfect for Couples, Families & Sightseeing
Punting on the Avon is ideal for couples, families, small groups and visitors wanting an easy sightseeing activity in central Christchurch. The smooth river journey is suitable for all ages and combines well with nearby attractions including the Christchurch Tram, Botanic Gardens and city centre dining.
Comfortable in Every Season
Tours depart from the centrally located Antigua Boat Sheds and operate year-round. During cooler months, cosy blankets, umbrellas and hot water bottles help keep passengers warm and comfortable while enjoying the river scenery.
Upgrade to a Private Punt Ride
For a more romantic or personalised experience, private punt rides are also available — perfect for couples, celebrations or visitors wanting a quieter journey along the Avon River.
Book Your Christchurch Punting Experience
Advance bookings are recommended, especially during weekends, school holidays and summer travel periods.
Price: $45 per person Child: $30 Family (2 adults + upto 3 child) $129
Departs: Daily: 1st Oct – 31st Mar 9am – 6pm; 1st Apr – 30th Sep 10am – 4pm
Duration: Approx. 30 mins (Standard Shared Tour); 30 mins (Private Tour)
Depart and return to Antigua Boatsheds, or Cambridge Terrace.
Please request a departure time to avoid waiting for the next available tour. Please add a note in the comments field requesting a suitable time. Please arrive at least 5 minutes before your ride departs.
Punting on the Avon Deals & Christchurch Tram Combos
Combo Christchurch Punting on the Avon River, Gondola & City Tram Tour
Price: $122.00 per person. Child: $52 pp Family pass $322
Experience three of Christchurch’s most iconic attractions in one unforgettable sightseeing package. Combining punting on the Avon River, the Christchurch Tram and the Christchurch Gondola, this popular combo pass offers one of the best ways to experience the Garden City from the water, the streets and above the city skyline.
Relax on a Punt Ride Along the Avon River
Begin with a peaceful 30-minute punting experience departing from the historic Antigua Boat Sheds. Glide beneath weeping willow trees and past the Christchurch Botanic Gardens while your Edwardian-dressed punter shares stories about the Avon River and Christchurch’s history.
Explore Christchurch by Historic Tram
Step aboard the Christchurch Tram for a narrated hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour through the city centre. Travel past landmarks including New Regent Street, the Arts Centre, Cathedral Square and the Botanic Gardens while discovering how Christchurch continues to evolve and rebuild.
Ride the Christchurch Gondola
Complete your Christchurch adventure with a gondola ride to the summit overlooking the city, Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour. At the top, enjoy panoramic views stretching to the Southern Alps, visit the Time Tunnel experience, relax at the café or explore nearby walking tracks.
Why Choose the Christchurch Combo Pass?
- Experience Christchurch’s top attractions in one easy package
- Combine relaxing river scenery, city sightseeing and panoramic views
- Flexible tram access allows you to explore the city at your own pace
- Great value for couples, families and first-time Christchurch visitors
Book Your Christchurch Combo Experience
Advance bookings are recommended during weekends, holidays and peak summer travel periods.
Punting on the Avon – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the punting tour suitable for young children?
Yes! The Christchurch punting tour is ideal for families and safe for young children. Life jackets are available if needed.
2. How long does the punting ride take?
The standard shared punting tour lasts approximately 30 minutes. Private tours are 45 minutes.
3. Where does the punting tour start and finish?
Most tours depart and return to the historic Antigua Boat Sheds, with an optional departure from Cambridge Terrace.
4. What should we bring for the punting experience?
Dress comfortably. Blankets, umbrellas, and hot water bottles are provided in cooler weather for your comfort.
5. Can we book a private punting experience for our family?
Yes! Private 45-minute punting tours are available with a minimum of two passengers.
6. Do we need to book in advance?
Yes, bookings are essential to ensure availability and minimize wait times. You can request a preferred departure time during booking.
7. Is the punting tour available year-round?
Yes! Tours run daily from October to March (9am–6pm) and from April to September (10am–4pm), weather permitting.
Christchurch Combo Tour – Punting, Gondola & Tram: FAQs
1. What’s included in the Christchurch Combo Tour?
The combo includes a 30-minute punting ride on the Avon River, a 50-minute narrated tram tour around the city, and a return gondola ride with panoramic views of Christchurch and the Southern Alps.
2. Can I do all three activities in one day?
Yes! Most visitors complete all three experiences in one day. You’re free to plan the order of each activity to suit your schedule.
3. Do I need to book a specific time for each activity?
While punting requires booking a specific departure time, the tram and gondola are more flexible and can be used at any time during the day.
4. How long does the combo tour take in total?
Allow approximately 3–4 hours to enjoy all activities comfortably, not including breaks or lunch.
5. Where do the tours depart from?
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Punting departs from the Antigua Boat Sheds.
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Tram can be boarded at any tram stop in the city centre.
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Gondola departs from the Gondola Base Station on Bridle Path Road.
6. Is the combo pass valid for one day only?
The combo pass is typically valid for one calendar day. Check your booking confirmation for any updates or special offers.
7. Is the combo tour suitable for families and children?
Absolutely! All three experiences are family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages.
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