Waka on Avon promo code: Māori cultural canoeing and walking tours in Christchurch

NZTT members and readers enjoy a 10% discount when booking Waka on Avon – use the promo code NZTT.

Waka on Avon is a must-do Māori cultural experience in Christchurch, whether you join them for a paddle or walk!

People paddle a traditional Māori waka at Whakarewarewa, Rotorua, New Zealand.

NZTT members save 10% at Waka on Avon using the promo code NZTT.

These discounts are for NZTT users, who purchase through the links we provide. You must be in our free Facebook group, subscribed to our newsletter or the holder of a free membership card. By booking through NZTT, you will enjoy a discount while supporting us – thank you!

Having an issue with your promo code? Please contact us, sharing details of what you are trying to book and the error message you’ve received.

Whether by land or water, you’ll be led by expert kaiārahi (guides), hearing captivating stories of Ngāi Tahu and early European settlers, resulting in a deeper connection to this special place and culture.

Designed for small-groups, both the walk and waka experience are suitable for all ages and abilities, standing out as one of Christchurch’s most meaningful and culturally rich activities.

What’s more, you don’t need any experience or specific skills.

A group paddles a traditional Māori waka canoe on a calm river in New Zealand.

Learn more:

Manaaki Waka Experience (75 minutes) – the best of the best.

This is a 75-minute Māori cultural waka experience in Christchurch on the Ōtākaro Avon River.

Begin with a mihi whakatau (traditional Māori welcome) before becoming whānau (family) through storytelling, learning a warm-up game and paddling a traditional waka.

This is a deeper Christchurch experience that connects you to manaakitanga, the spirit of hospitality, care, and shared connection.

Kaitiaki Waka Experience (45 minutes)

This is a 45-minute Māori waka experience in Christchurch on the Ōtākaro Avon River.

Begin with a mihi whakatau (traditional Māori welcome) before stepping into the role of kaitiaki (guardian) and paddling a waka (canoe) with local Ngāi Tūāhuriri guides.

Discover why this spring-fed river is a living mahinga kai — a source of food, culture, and responsibility, and learn how your journey supports its ongoing restoration.

Mahika Kai (90 minutes)

Experience Māori culture, storytelling, nature and kai (food) on this unique Christchurch experience.

Take a guided riverside walk, learning about the river’s traditional role as a food source, then board a traditional waka and paddle along the Ōtākaro Avon River before enjoying a taste of kai from the whenua (land).

This is a hands-on cultural experience connecting people, place and food.