If you want to enjoy great food in a charming setting, head to the Boatshed Café. Part of the historic Antigua Boatsheds (1882), our café’s indoor and outdoor seating places you right on the banks of the Avon as it meanders through central Christchurch, providing a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Sit back with a tasty breakfast, brunch, or lunch and savour a delicious meal, or just drop in for a coffee and unwind at one of Christchurch’s most pleasant and historical establishments. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, we’re just across the river from Christchurch Hospital and within 5 minutes’ walk of both the Botanic Gardens and the sports fields of South Hagley Park. Our historic building and facilities have happily been largely unaffected by the Canterbury earthquakes, and we’re open to receive your custom.
To discover more about the history of the Antigua Boatsheds and take a look at our boat hire options, visit our boat hire page here.

We offer delicious and filling breakfast classics like French toast, Eggs Benedict, and pancake stacks, as well as lighter fare, while our lunch menu offers our own tasty café-style take on a great range of Kiwi favourites such as toasted sandwiches, fish and chips, and burgers, in addition to more sophisticated dishes such as smoked salmon, gourmet pasta, and more.

For a special and different afternoon out, you can opt for one of our picnic baskets. Choose one of our two delicious picnic-style menus, pick up your basket, and find your own perfect spot on the riverbank or in the nearby Botanic Gardens.

The Boatshed Café can cater your on or off site function. Our licensed venue can host groups of up to 60 people for special occasions. Come in with your group and enjoy a gourmet BBQ on our deck, or opt for our cocktail catering menu and its wide array of tasty finger food. Our riverside location and great food make us a top choice for your work do, birthday celebration, cocktail party, or other private function. Please note :Function availability is between the December to February period.

Please look over our catering menus on the left, and if you’re interested in booking a function, click here to place an order on-line. Alternatively, you can give us a call on 03 366 6768 to discuss our options.