Punting on the Avon & Gondola Pass

South Island

Christchurch Attractions

from

NZ$79

per adult

Punting on the Avon River framed by blossoms, and Christchurch Gondola above the harbour.

Experiences

Family-friendly Tours

Day Tours

South Island

Start: Christchurch

Details

Scenic Christchurch Adventures from Water to Sky

The Punting on the Avon & Gondola Pass is one of the most memorable ways to experience Christchurch’s beauty. As you drift along the Avon River, you’ll pass under leafy willows and through the Botanic Gardens, where the calm waters reflect the greenery around you. The ride feels timeless, making it a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

After the tranquil journey on the water, the adventure continues high above the landscape. The Christchurch Gondola carries you up the Port Hills, opening up sweeping views of the city and beyond. From the summit, you can take in the Canterbury Plains, the Southern Alps, and the sparkling waters of Lyttelton Harbour.

Traditional punting jackets and straw hats hanging on display at the Antigua Boat Sheds

Punting boat gliding through blossom-framed scenery on the Avon River

Groups punting from the historic Antigua Boat Sheds in Christchurch

Families punting on the Avon River near Worcester Street Bridge with Hagley Park in the background

Couple punting through autumn scenery on the Avon River in Hagley Park

Gondola cabin overlooking Banks Peninsula and the turquoise waters of Lyttelton Harbour

Crater Rim Walkway sign with gondola and snowy mountains in background

Two hikers walking near a Christchurch Gondola cabin with views of Lyttelton Harbour

Family on a ride through native forest scenery in the Christchurch Gondola’s Time Tunnel

Brochure showing walking tracks from Christchurch Gondola summit including Bridle Path and Cavendish Bluff

A Relaxing and Accessible Christchurch Experience

This combo pass is perfect for travellers of all ages and fitness levels. The punt ride is slow-paced and guided, offering a comfortable way to see the city while learning about its history and natural beauty. The Gondola ride is equally easy to enjoy, requiring no effort other than sitting back and soaking in the scenery.

What makes this experience so special is the way it blends two perspectives of Christchurch. From the gentle Avon River to the panoramic hilltop outlook, you’ll see the city’s character from both a close-up and wide-angle view. It’s a great way to spend a day that balances relaxation with unforgettable sights.

Inclusions

A 30-minute guided punt ride along the Avon River
A return ticket for the Christchurch Gondola

Important Information

Gondola:
- Open 10am-4pm daily. Last ride down 60 minutes after closing.
- Gondola is wheelchair accessible
Punting:
- Open 9:30am-4pm daily winter, 9am -5pm daily summer (from 16 September).
- Bookings are essential as spaces are limited. Please contact us after purchasing your pass.

Age Information:

Adults: 16 years +
Children: 5-15 years
Infants: Under 5 years go free.
Family Pass: 2 adults and up to 3 children
All children must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Cancellation and Refunds

2 days or more: Full refund*
Between 2 days and 24 hours: 75% refund*
Within 24 hours/No Show: No refund

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

Frequently asked questions

Our base station is fully wheelchair accessible, and a wheelchair is available for guests to borrow from reception. The Gondola cabins can accommodate manual wheelchairs up to 600mm wide, which is the maximum width of the cabin doorway. At the summit station, an elevator allows wheelchair users easy access to the café, observatory, and function spaces. However, please note that the Christchurch Discovery Ride is not accessible for wheelchairs.

The Christchurch Gondola ride usually lasts about 10 minutes, but at top speed, the journey can be completed in just 4 minutes and 30 seconds.

No, you can visit the attractions on different days if you prefer.

Both our standard shared ride and private ride options last 30 minutes.

The ride departs from either the Antigua Boat Sheds or Worcester Bridge, depending on the tour option you choose. If starting at the Antigua Boat Sheds, the ride returns to the same location. For rides starting at Worcester Bridge, the journey ends at Victoria Square. Due to health and safety regulations, there are no opportunities to disembark before the designated end of the ride.

Christchurch winters can be chilly, but we provide blankets at both departure points to keep our guests warm. We also offer umbrellas and waterproof blankets to ensure guests stay dry during rainy or showery weather.

Unfortunately, Punting on the Avon is not fully wheelchair accessible. However, both the Antigua Boat Sheds and Worcester Bridge landings are accessible by wheelchair, allowing guests to step out of their chair and board the punt. For guests who remain in their wheelchairs, parties are welcome to lift the chair in and out of the punt if preferred.

Please contact us for more details.