Date:    28/05/17
River:    Avon River, Christchurch, NZ
River Conditions:   1.66 cumecs at Gloucester Street bridge. Water mostly clear. Grade 1.
Weather Conditions:   Sunny but cool, nor-easterly wind.
Number on Trip:    2 people.
Time on River:  45 minutes.
Comments:  With Autumn coming to a close, you have to make the most of sunny days while the trees still have such a range of spectacular colours, before the bleakness of winter. It was also another chance to give Lauri’s new kayak trolley a test. We put in on our side of the river, where Evelyn Cousins Ave meets River Road, an easy spot to access the river now that all the construction work there has been completed. I got Lauri into her boat and then went back home to put the cat inside so we didn’t have to worry about her. I seal launched into the river and hope my old deck didn’t leak as my kayaks nose slid below the waters’ surface.

We paddled upstream this time, so as to make the journey home a little easier. The river looked particularly beautiful in the sunlight, resplendent in its Autumn colours. There were plenty of ducks and Canada geese, plus the odd pairs of black swans. Once we reached the Fitzgerald Street bridge, Lauri asked if I had brought my wallet with me so we could pop in to Pomeroy’s for an ale and some pork crackling, but sadly I hadn’t. Next time I’ll try to remember to bring it, plus a lock and cable to secure the boats.

Kayaking the Avon at the end of Autumn.

The journey home was nice and easy, going with the current and we were soon back at the Swans Road bridge. We took out at the boat ramp on the opposite bank of the river as it is a bit easier to get out here (it would be great if there was one on our side, hint, hint), loaded Lauri’s kayak on to her trolley and wandered home for Korean coffee and chocolate biscuits.