Waka Paddle On The Avon River - 45 Minute
Highlights & inclusions
1. Select date
April 2026
2. Select participants
What you can expect
Discover the Avon River in Christchurch on a 45 minute paddling trip by waka - a traditional Māori canoe. Waka on Avon is a cultural experience suitable for all ages, making this one of the top things to do in Christchurch for families and friends. Each waka is handcrafted and the perfect vessel for exploring the rich history of the Ōtākaro Avon River.
As you cruise down the Avon River, learn the cultural importance behind the waka from your Waka on Avon guide. Follow in the footsteps of the Ngai Tahu iwi, Canterbury’s Māori people, as well as learning about early European settlers and how the city of Christchurch was built. Both waka and the Avon River were an integral part of Christchurch’s story, providing transport and trade links for both Māori and early settlers. Throughout the tour, you may even get some tips on more Christchurch attractions and fascinating places to visit in Christchurch.
Waka on Avon is a fun Christchurch experience combining both paddling and learning about the Māori waka. Among the best Christchurch attractions that take place in the city itself, this tour is a great introduction to Māori culture and perfect if you are looking for Christchurch family activities that get everyone involved.
Location
What you need to know
- Bookings are available for Solo travelers. However booking will be canceled if fewer than 6 people are booked 48 hours before the scheduled time
- Waka history and significance
- Learn to paddle
- Local history and story telling
- Life jackets available on request
- Food and Beverage
- No shuttle service
- Journey down the Avon River and discover the legacy of Maori and early Settler interaction
- Enjoy learning about the importance of the waka to Maori culture
- Explore Chirstchurch by waka on the Avon River
- This experience departs from 794 Colombo Street, Christchurch.
- Due to health and safety risks we recommend that infants do not travel on this experience
- Children (5-15yrs)
- Tours may be cancelled by Waka on Avon due to wind speeds or rainfall or minimum numbers not being reached.
- Change your booking up to 24 hours before the start time of your experience
- Changes are not permitted within 24 hours of your experience
- Late arrivals or no shows may result in you forfeiting your experience
- Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
- Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
- Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
- Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
- For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
- We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements