Official Opening Of Christchurch’s Avon Loop

The big splash of a kayak launching into the Avon River was a key part of the official opening of Christchurch’s Avon Loop by the Minister for Greater Christchurch Regeneration Hon Megan Woods recently.

Central Christchurch’s first dedicated canoe and kayak jetty is now ready for use as part of Citycare's  regeneration work on the Avon Loop for Ōtākaro Limited.

The one-kilometre stretch of redevelopment work in the earthquake Red Zone along Oxford Terrace between Willow Street and Fitzgerald Avenue transformed a ruined and inaccessible stretch of the earthquake Red Zone into a community space with easy access to the water’s edge.

“It’s all about connecting communities and it been great to see the residents come back and enjoy the space,” said Citycare Landscapes Contract Manager Brent Cations.

Citycare team has been involved in creating every metre of the shared pathway from the Health Precinct to Fitzgerald Avenue and the Avon Loop is one of the final pieces of the seven-year project known as Te Papa Ōtākaro/Avon River Precinct Anchor Project.

“It’s a really good feeling to be a part of a project linking the hospital all the way to Fitzgerald Avenue for pedestrians and cyclists. It’s a great success to deliver this,” Brent said.

Ōtākaro Limited Chief Executive John Bridgman said, “We know the Avon Loop is special to a lot of people and to have the opportunity to replace the broken pavement and weeds with this new pathway, planting, lighting and seating for the public to enjoy has been exciting for everyone involved. 

“This Anchor Project was designed to make the river a more prominent feature within the city. The kayak ramp, which includes rollers and steps for easy entry and exit and a stabilised riverbed footing, offers another way to enjoy and view the iconic Avon River,” he said.

As well as 4000m2 of asphalt for the Avon Loop pathways and car parking, some initial planting has taken place.

But the optimum planting conditions in April mean the majority of 13,000 native plants and trees will be transplanted then.

Everyone in Christchurch is invited to a community BBQ at the Avon Loop on Saturday April 4 to celebrate this fantastic new riverside park.