WATERSPORTS have become a common sight at one Christchurch beach but there are plans for an annual festival to grow the offering even more.

The Avon Beach Windsurfing Festival, which was held over three days at the end of November saw hundreds of windsurfers and paddleboarders take to the water.

Large crowds also braved the cold weather to line the beach and sample some of the action on show across the festival.

Despite conditions not being ideal for windsurfing and being unsuitable to hold an official competition, the event was deemed a success by event organiser Clyde Waite, who is a professional windsurfer and teacher at Twynham School.

"The festival went really well and has grown a lot from last year," Mr Waite said.

"We got so many positive responses from both people taken part in the events and those watching from the beach.

"Its a great spectator sport and we're trying to encourage people who come to watch to get out on the water and give it a go.

"The other day there was around 60 windsurfers out at Avon Beach and it is one of those beaches that is really good for watersports."

The festival attracted some of the best windsurfers in the world, alongside a number of Avon Beach locals who have had success in sport - some even compete on the world tour.

"The event itself brings together many successful local companies together like Conker Spirit and Jimmy's Iced Coffee," Mr Waite added.

"Everyone has a good time and it has a fantastic social element.

"The festival something that can be a real positive for the area and brings money to businesses outside the traditional tourist season.

"I decided to do the festival initially to show that Avon Beach is a great area for watersports and hopefully it has proved that."