Boat Rentals

Christchurch: Avon River Guided Punting Cruise

Name: Christchurch: Avon River Guided Punting Cruise
Start: 2026-08-22T14:00:00
End: 2026-08-22T14:30:00
Location: 2 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch Central City

Settle into a wooden boat for a 30-minute waterway cruise, as your classically dressed punter shares tales, and you glide past riverside gardens.

Enjoy a small shared boat, eco-friendly propulsion, and added comfort with snug blankets and umbrellas supplied if weather turns cool or wet.

See native flora and wildlife from water level, following routes that trace either the Botanic Gardens or central city riverfront views.

Upgrade by adding a Christchurch Gondola ticket, gliding up for panoramic Port Hills views plus access to walking tracks and a licensed cafe.

You can also add a Christchurch Tram one-day pass, riding heritage tramcars with hop-on hop-off freedom between key central city attractions at your own pace.

30-minute guided punt on Avon River

Informative commentary from a classically-attired punter

Shared ride with other guests

Blankets and umbrellas supplied when needed

Choice of two sites: Antigua Boat Sheds (year-round) or Worcester Bridge (summer only, reopening spring 2026)

Eco-friendly experience

Christchurch Gondola ticket with Port Hills views [as per option selected]

Christchurch Tram one-day hop-on hop-off ticket [as per option selected]

Transport to and from the meeting point

Food and beverages

Private rides

Refunds for missed departures

Souvenir photos (available for purchase)

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Glide along the Avon River on a relaxed guided punt, with live commentary and optional Gondola and Tram upgrades to see more of Christchurch.

Getting started

Head to your selected boarding point: Antigua Boat Sheds year-round or Worcester Bridge during the summer season. Show your booking to board the shared punt. Blankets and umbrellas are provided when needed.

What to expect

Avon River Punt

The Avon River punt is a classic Christchurch sightseeing experience, known for its gentle pace and low-level views of the city and riverside gardens.

Features

Settle into a 30-minute shared punt with live commentary from a classically dressed punter.

Glide past Christchurch Botanic Gardens or the downtown riverfront, depending on your route.

Look out for riverside plants and birdlife as you travel quietly along the water.

Enjoy an eco-friendly experience with blankets and umbrellas supplied when needed.

Upgrades

Add Christchurch Gondola access for panoramic views across the Port Hills.

Add a one-day hop-on hop-off Christchurch Tram ticket to explore the city at your own pace.

Choose the combo option to include both the Gondola and Tram with your river punt.

What to bring

Voucher: Bring your mobile voucher and a valid photo ID for verification at the boarding point.

Weather clothing: Wear weather-appropriate clothing, as punting operates in all conditions.

Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes, as punt seats are low to the ground like sitting on the floor.

Additional information

Arrival time: Arrive at the correct punting location at least 15 minutes before your booked departure time.

Departure policy: Punts depart promptly at the scheduled time, and refunds are not available if you miss your ride.

Weather policy: Punting operates in all weather conditions, and blankets or umbrellas are supplied when needed.

Seating style: Punt seats are low to the ground, similar to sitting on the floor, which may affect comfort for some guests.

Age policy: There is no minimum age, but all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Site availability: The Worcester Bridge punting site is closed and will reopen in spring 2026.

Booking advice: Advance bookings are essential if you want to avoid long waiting times.

Child definition: Child tickets apply to ages 5 to 15 years, and infants travel free.

Family definition: A family ticket covers 2 adults and up to 3 children.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.

Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.