Built in 1882 to provide recreation river experiences for a young Christchurch, the Antigua Boat Sheds, with on-going thoughtful restoration, essentially serve the same purpose 130 years on.
The Boatsheds is one of the oldest wooden buildings in Christchurch. Located beside the Avon River, close to Christchurch Public Hospital, the Antigua Boat Sheds were built in 1882 by two Lyttelton boat builders, Albert Shaw and T.J.Tidd.
This Boatshed was the only one of several built along the Avon River, but is the only one remaining today. The Avon River provides excellent recreational activities such as canoeing and punting, however it is not ideally suited for swimming. For your convenience we have toilet and washroom facilities should you need them
The construction of a nearby footbridge in 1869 enabled the Antigua Boat Sheds to become a natural point for congregation – being close to Christchurch Public Hospital, Hagley Park, Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Christ’s College. Since 1929 Antigua has been the only heritage Boat Sheds on the Avon.
A long-standing Boat Sheds licenced cafe (formerly the Antigua Milk Bar) is a popular spot for coffee breaks, refreshments and lunch. Antigua Boat Sheds has a Category One listing by the Historic Places Trust.
Hours & Prices
Cafe
Monday to Friday 6.30am till 5.30pm (summer hours). Winter hours 5pm close
Saturday and Sunday 7am till 5.30pm (summer hours). Winter hours 5pm close
Boat & Bike hire is 9am last boats out at 4.30pm for 5.30pm close (summer hours). Winter hours last boats out at 4pm for 5pm close.
Single Kayak Hire
Plastic construction. Easy to manoeuvre.
$12.00 per hour
Weight limit 100kg
Double Kayak Hire
Plastic construction. Suitable for 2 adults.
$24.00 per hour
(plus two seats)
Paddle Boat Hire
Fibreglass construction. Suitable for 2 children (they operate better with less weight).
$25.00 per half-hour (two people)
Row Boat Hire
Wooden clinker-built original rowing skiff, crafted at the Boat Sheds in 2008. Three available. Suitable for 3 people.
$25.00 per half hour
$35.00 per hour
Canadian Canoe
Wooden canoe crafted at the Boatsheds in 2009. Suitable for 3-4 people.
$25.00 per half hour
$35.00 per hour
Group Bookings
10 people or more – we can cater for up to 80 people.
$10 per person
Combination Bookings
Summer boating
1 x Rowboat
1 x Picnic Hamper
$65.00 for 2 people
Night Bookings
(After business hours only – only open late for 20+ people)
$12.00 per person
Contact Details
Phone:
03 366 6768
Physical Address:
2 Cambridge Terrace
Christchurch Central
Christchurch 8013
Email:
kitchen@boatsheds.co.nz
Website:
www.boatsheds.co.nz
“…..there is nothing – absolutely nothing
Half so worth doing
As messing about in boats
Simply messing….”
