The Avon follows a meandering course through Christchurch from its source in the outer western suburb of Avonhead through Ilam, Riccarton and Fendalton, then through Hagley Park and the Central Business District (CBD).

East of the CBD, it passes through Avonside, Dallington, Avondale and Aranui, finally flowing into the Pacific Ocean via the Avon Heathcote Estuary (Māori: Te Wahapū[2]) near Sumner.

In the lower reaches below the Central Business District it is not uncommon for trout over 10 lbs (4 kg) to be caught, after the fish have made good use of consuming high numbers of a native Galaxiidae and whitebait.

[10] In January 2013 health officials warned against swimming in the river due to contamination, linked to damage caused in the earthquakes.

[11] In September 2015, it was revealed that Christchurch City Council (CCC) and the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) had bought two sculptures named Stay from English sculptor Antony Gormley, with one of them to be placed in the Avon River.