Paddling Pleasure

This sunny spring Sunday was perfect for taking a kayak on the Avon.  As we approached the Antigua Boatsheds we were thrilled to see a new duckling family on the riverbank.

Ducklings on riverbank

It’s seven years since I’ve hired a boat beside the Botanic Gardens and there have been some changes.  There are now two separate boat hire businesses and it was the one with kayaks we were after.  The cost is $15 for an hour’s hire, and well worth it.  I’d remembered to have any valuables in zipped pockets, and discovered there are now lockers if you want to store a backpack.  The kind boatman held the kayak steady for me to get in, handled me a paddle, and off we went.

Heading upstream

It’s a sheer delight to paddle gently up the river, past ducks and flowering trees.  There were some family groups in larger kayaks and some in punts.  I was pleased to find there are now two female punt persons.  The river is calm and little effort is required to manoeuvre the craft.  We enjoyed our hour of water-based pleasure.  On the way back I attempted to take a selfie – more practice needed, I think.

Returning downriver

I realised afterwards it might have been a good idea to bend my knees occasionally, as my legs were quite stiff when it was time to get out.  Luckily the boatman was there to assist.

On the way back through the Botanic Gardens we admired beds of tulips.

Tulips

By now the car park was full, with many families out to enjoy the flowers and the sunshine.

To take a ride upon the river
is Christchurch’s best journey ever