Avon River / Ōtākaro (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Avon River / Ōtākaro?
What makes it 86% Kids-Friendly: Kids can feed eels, race pedal-boats and roam Margaret Mahy Playground, but parents must watch unfenced riverbanks and some shingle trail sections are tricky for small bikes.
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly paths: Smooth, wide paths along the river allow easy pushchair access between sites.
- Free entry playground: Margaret Mahy Playground and eel feeding cost nothing, balancing paid activities.
- Short walk distances: All main sites sit within 1 km stretch, so little legs won’t tire quickly.
Challenges:
- Changeable weather: Rain and wind can rise suddenly; pack raincoats and check the forecast.
- Boat bookings needed: Punt and kayak spots fill fast on weekends; book at least a day ahead.
- Limited shade: Many riverside benches lack cover; bring sun protection for sunny days.
What is Avon River / Ōtākaro?
- A 14-kilometre urban river known as Avon River / Ōtākaro that flows through the heart of Christchurch
- Banks featuring weeping willows, native New Zealand silver ferns and a series of Victorian-style footbridges
- A landscaped waterway integrated with the city’s botanical gardens, riverside promenades and shared walking and cycling trails
What is so special about Avon River / Ōtākaro for with kids?
- Glide on an Edwardian-style punt with one child riding free
- Race in family pedal boats or kayaks under weeping willows
- Cool off in splash zones at Margaret Mahy Playground
- Feed native eels at The Terraces for a quick free activity
- Enjoy a riverside picnic on stroller-friendly paths
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This allows time for a punt ride, riverside play and a picnic without rushing younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Avon River / Ōtākaro
Punting on the Avon:
Take a 30-minute flat-bottomed boat ride through the Botanic Gardens and city centre.
Tip: Children under 5 ride free; book at Antigua Boat Sheds ahead to secure seats on a weekend.
Margaret Mahy Playground:
Let kids climb, slide and splash at one of the southern hemisphere’s largest play areas.
Tip: Visit early to avoid the midday crowd and bring a change of clothes for water play.
Family Kayak or Pedal Boat Race:
Rent a four-seat pedal boat or double kayaks for a fun family challenge under the willows.
Tip: Reserve craft at Antigua Boat Sheds; lifejackets provided for all ages.
Feed the Eels at The Terraces:
Watch and feed Māori long-finned eels from the river promenade.
Tip: Bring fish pellets or ask local cafés for bread scraps; keep a safe distance from the edge.
Riverside Picnic and Stroll:
Choose a riverside lawn or bench for snacks and a gentle walk along the City Promenade.
Tip: Pack easy finger foods; follow flat, stroller-friendly paths for a relaxed outing.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Avon River / Ōtākaro
- Combine water and play: Start with punting, then head to the playground so kids stay excited between activities.
- Pack a picnic: Bring food to avoid café queues and to eat at quiet riverbank spots.
- Use public loos: Plan loo stops at Cathedral Square or Botanic Gardens before longer walks.
Reviews of Avon River / Ōtākaro
Syed Ali Irshad
Not really the most interesting river, but is surrounded by a botanical garden which you can take stunning photos in
BÙI HỮU LỘC
1. Scenic Walkways: The paths along the river, with well-maintained steps and seating areas, invite leisurely strolls or moments of reflection. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet walk, offering a sense of peace amidst the urban environment. 2. Punting Experience: The small boats gently gliding on the river add to the charm, evoking a sense of nostalgia and offering visitors a unique way to enjoy the ...
Stu Thompson
We enjoyed strolling along the river. It's well manicured with nice grass parks along the way. Plenty of statues and items of interest too. Would definitely recommend. I actually visited in October 2021 - I just decided to copy the review that I posed on TripAdvisor at the time across to Google now.
Shilpa BT
Quite a nice, winding river, with lots of sidewalks to go for a quiet morning walk. It's also the place where many of the city's events are held.
Brad
One of the neat aspects of time spent in the town centre of Christchurch is the Avon River, which beautifully winds its way through the city. This is an attractive waterway with clear water, often times lined with willows. I enjoyed seeing trout near a couple bridges as well as kayakers and boaters enjoying the Avon, at Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Garden. There is a nice seating area...
When is the best time to visit Avon River / Ōtākaro (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
In summer, bring sun hats and swimwear for splash zones at the playground. In autumn, spot golden leaves drifting along the river for extra fun.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Shared punt ride (2 adults + 1 child) | NZD 114 |
| Family kayak or pedal boat (1 hour) | NZD 60 |
| Snacks and drinks | NZD 20 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 194 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Avon River / Ōtākaro
Address: Avon River / Ōtākaro, Canterbury Region, New Zealand
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