Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds) (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds)?
What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: Solo visitors can join a 30-min shared punt, hire a kayak, or relax in the heritage café; central location, easy public access, and short duration suit flexible individual plans.
Positives:
- Free garden entry: Adjacent Botanic Gardens are open daily at no charge.
- Local history commentary: Your punter shares Christchurch stories as you glide.
Challenges:
- Weather dependency: Tours may pause in heavy rain; check forecast and ask about gear.
- Limited departure slots: Punt tours run on a set schedule. Arrive early to avoid missing your ride.
What is Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds)?
- A punting operation based at the 1882-built Antigua Boat Sheds on Christchurch’s Avon River
- A fleet of shallow-draft, flat-bottomed punts propelled with a single pole for navigating the Avon’s gentle currents
- A heritage-listed riverside transport service featuring guides in traditional Edwardian attire
What is so special about Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds) for solo trip?
- Polish your solo outing with a 30-minute punt ride led by an Edwardian-clad guide
- Combine water activities with a free stroll through Botanic Gardens
- Choose a kayak or bike hire for more riverbank exploration
- Relax riverside at the Boat Shed Café with heritage views
- Benefit from seasonal gear provided and simple advance booking
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for a 30-minute punt ride, riverside stroll and a café break
Solo-Friendly Activities in Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds)
Join a Shared Punt Ride:
Hop on a 30-minute group punt guided by an Edwardian-attired punter along the Avon River.
Tip: Book online or at Antigua Boat Sheds early to secure your spot.
Stroll Botanic Gardens:
Explore adjacent gardens free of charge, wandering under weeping willows and spotting ducks.
Tip: Follow riverside paths for quiet views and photo opportunities.
Hire a Single Kayak:
Paddle solo on the Avon River at your own pace with lifejacket supplied.
Tip: Reserve online in advance, especially on weekends.
Visit Boat Shed Café:
Grab a coffee or picnic hamper by the water’s edge in a heritage setting.
Tip: Sit outside for uninterrupted river views during sunny mornings.
Cycle Around Hagley Park:
Rent an adult bike and ride the riverside loop and park trails.
Tip: Hire a bike at the sheds and return within the hour to avoid extra fees.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds)
- Pre-book online: Secure a punt or kayak in advance to skip queues.
- Visit off-peak hours: Mornings weekdays have smaller groups and quieter paths.
Reviews of Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds)
My honest review
1 Oct 2025 First time punting. Nice and professional story telling by the crew. Quite pricy but hey we are on a holiday so why not right.
Karen Love
Our guide, John F the Irish man was a fabulous guide, good humor and great knowledge. Give that guy a pay rise 😁 Thoroughly enjoyed our trip down the river and learnt a few things on the way 😊
Melissa Messenger
You need to punt on the Avon when in Christchurch. It's a wonderfully pleasant ride. Our guide Abbey was extremely knowledgeable and a great tour guide. Remember to book in advance because it is very popular.
Hope
This experience has been on my bucket list for years now. Finally getting to do it meant the world to me. Our guy Rob was warm, friendly, informative and made us laugh. Punting along the river on a sunny morning was so delightful. Thank you so much for such a great experience.
smruti ranjan mishra
It was such a nice experience under a nice weather. Definitely will recommend to people who are visiting christ church for the first time. The punter was so friendly with the occasional jokes. Got to know back stories of so many events of the city. It was one of the best highlights of the city I must say.
When is the best time to visit Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds) (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
In summer, bring sunscreen and water. Winter trips include complimentary blankets and hot-water bottles—ask before you board.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Shared punt ride | NZD 42 |
| Single kayak hire (1 hr) | NZD 23 |
| Coffee at Boat Shed Café | NZD 7 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 72 |
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 Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds)
Address: 2 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
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About Punting On The Avon (Antigua Boat Sheds)
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 3 366 0337Average price
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