One of Christchurch's most distinctive tourist attractions, punting on the Avon River, is now back in operation following February's earthquake.
The first punt rides by tour company Punting on the Avon began on Thursday morning with mayor Bob Parker the first to take a ½-hour guided tour.
He welcomed the return of the key tourist attraction as a sign Christchurch is beginning to get back to normal.
The manager of Punting on the Avon Jamie Storie says he and his colleagues were keen to get back on the water.
He says the locals were also keen to see the business resume as it gave them a sense of normality.
The company has spent the past two months repairing the boats and ramp, clearing the river and ensuring the water is safe.
Tourists who were taking the punt tours said the earthquake had not put them off visiting and they were keen to be able to patronise tourist opportunities in the central city.
