Latest Articles
Travel tailored: House of Travel
Award winning. Life-changing. Memory making. This is not your typical travel agency. All this, a 20-strong team and more in House of Travel Christchurch City’s purpose-designed space nestled on Victoria Street beneath The Mayfair hotel. From the moment you step inside, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special – and that stress-free feeling continues […]
Classic Christmas condiments
Catering for the whole family at Christmas can be tricky. The season is busy enough without worrying which condiments best complement your festive feast. That’s why we’ve picked out two classic sauces guaranteed to cover your Christmas dinner. CHRISTMAS DAY GRAVY Ingredients 2 tsp chicken stock powder 1 tsp beef stock powder 2 […]
DAZZLING DRESSES. Curated by Nina Tucker
Serve more than your potluck plate at Christmas dinner this year. Chic styles and sharp shapes afford immediate elegance – and did you really think we wouldn’t feature a red and green palette in our Christmas issue? The holiday’s classic hues have defined the runways this year, giving you a free pass from […]
Jewellery reimagined: BL Jewellery
When beloved broadcaster Miriama Kamo wanted to breathe new life into treasured jewellery, she turned to Christchurch jeweller Brett Liddle. This particularly meaningful project saw Brett handmake a ring that would connect Miriama to her late father – a piece created to hold his memory in a modern contemporary style. “Jewellery carries our […]
Play with prints: Zebrano
Summer is the season to be bold. Mixing prints is less about rules and more about balance, contrast, and a bit of fun,” says the team at Kiwi retailer Zebrano. With styles from New Zealand, Australian, and international designers in sizes 14 plus, they know how to make prints work for every mood […]
Joyeux noël: French Blue
Nothing says chic gifting quite like an elegant collection of locally available beautiful and unique Christmas items. Each individual piece at homeware and gift store French Blue has a ‘Je ne sais quoi’ quality. Carefully curated under the expert eye of owner Catherine Matthews, vintage grain sack and linen cushions, exquisite European jewellery, […]
The perfect present
Welcome to your foolproof Christmas gift guide – these under $100 finds will fill the gaps from secret santas to stocking stuffers.
Christmas twinkle: Coco Gifts
We all know it’s better to give than receive. Easier said than done, because where do you find the perfect gift? Glance inside Coco Gifts’ Christmas window. In Liz Bloomfield’s gorgeous store, there is a trove of stunning gifts for special people who will think you are extremely clever for finding something so […]
Peppy performer
I’ve always struggled to get excited about the SUV-come-Coupe segment. This all changed lately when I sampled the brand new Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, writes Ben Selby. Enter an elegant refresh – essentially a streamlined and sportier version of the GLE SUV – the coupe’s flowing rear section and slippery looking accents are the […]
Power Up: VP Batteries
Don’t let a flat battery slow you down. Nothing derails your day, or holiday road trip, faster than discovering a flat battery. Whether it’s in your car, motorhome, motorcycle, tractor or boat, finding a replacement is frustrating enough, but fitting it and disposing of the old one adds another layer of hassle. That’s […]
Weighing up options
You’ve probably heard the gut hormone GLP-1 control the trending Ozempic conversation – but what really is it, and why is everyone talking about it? GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone which helps to stabilise blood sugar levels, support healthy appetite by sending signals of fullness to your brain, and slows digestion so […]
Beautiful and breathable: Only from Italy
Don’t miss the chance to secure these timeless, nature-inspired designs before they’re gone. Our final shipment for 2025 has just arrived,” says Simone, manager of Christchurch boutique OFI. “Our most-loved exclusive English Botanical Floral cotton poplin range, and our most popular Giovanni shirt is back in gorgeous summer hues including tangerine, fuchsia, and […]
Your guide to what’s on in the West Coast
26 & 28 DECEMBER: WESTPORT TROTTING CLUB CHRISTMAS MEETING Gather all your family and friends to watch some horse racing. With ten different trotting and pace races each day, there will be plenty of high-speed equines to admire. 30 DECEMBER: REEFTON TROTS Get ready for Reefton’s largest annual race event. Pack a picnic […]
Inside a Christmas house
Christchurch florist Millie MacAlpine found a way to lean into her festive obsession after designing a home with sweeping staircases and eight-metre-high ceilings set on six acres of rustic gardens. A self-proclaimed ‘Chris-a-holic’ (which you will come to endorse), Millie MacAlpine has always adored Christmas time. Designing and building the aforementioned property on […]
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Cuisine
Classic Christmas condiments
Catering for the whole family at Christmas can be tricky. The season is busy enough without worrying which condiments best complement your festive feast. That’s why we’ve picked out two classic sauces guaranteed to cover your Christmas dinner. CHRISTMAS DAY GRAVY Ingredients 2 tsp chicken stock powder 1 tsp beef stock powder 2 […]
A rebranded favourite: The Little Taphouse
This local favourite has rebranded into a homely haven to be enjoyed by all. Previously Sprig & Fern Merivale, The Little Taphouse’s refurbishment refurbishment has created a space for growth, while still providing the same great service locals love. “We are now stocking 18 taps of Emerson’s beer,” says bar and restaurant owner, […]
Love a duck: Phat Duck
Discover where Ashburton comes to unwind. The Phat Duck Brew Bar and Kitchen is Ashburton’s most happening hangout – a warm, welcoming space where great food, cold drinks, and good company come naturally. Whether you’re stopping in for a family meal, a casual catch-up with friends, or a refreshing beer after work, everyone’s […]
Taking the cake: Mandeville Street Kitchen
This little local gem in Riccarton is a popular hotspot for those seeking great coffee, delicious food, and a warm welcome… not to mention their in-demand homemade Christmas cakes. At Mandeville Street Kitchen in Riccarton, the festive season is well and truly underway – and that means one thing: Christmas cakes. Made by […]
Fashion & Beauty
DAZZLING DRESSES. Curated by Nina Tucker
Serve more than your potluck plate at Christmas dinner this year. Chic styles and sharp shapes afford immediate elegance – and did you really think we wouldn’t feature a red and green palette in our Christmas issue? The holiday’s classic hues have defined the runways this year, giving you a free pass from […]
Jewellery reimagined: BL Jewellery
When beloved broadcaster Miriama Kamo wanted to breathe new life into treasured jewellery, she turned to Christchurch jeweller Brett Liddle. This particularly meaningful project saw Brett handmake a ring that would connect Miriama to her late father – a piece created to hold his memory in a modern contemporary style. “Jewellery carries our […]
Play with prints: Zebrano
Summer is the season to be bold. Mixing prints is less about rules and more about balance, contrast, and a bit of fun,” says the team at Kiwi retailer Zebrano. With styles from New Zealand, Australian, and international designers in sizes 14 plus, they know how to make prints work for every mood […]
Beautiful and breathable: Only from Italy
Don’t miss the chance to secure these timeless, nature-inspired designs before they’re gone. Our final shipment for 2025 has just arrived,” says Simone, manager of Christchurch boutique OFI. “Our most-loved exclusive English Botanical Floral cotton poplin range, and our most popular Giovanni shirt is back in gorgeous summer hues including tangerine, fuchsia, and […]
Health
Weighing up options
You’ve probably heard the gut hormone GLP-1 control the trending Ozempic conversation – but what really is it, and why is everyone talking about it? GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone which helps to stabilise blood sugar levels, support healthy appetite by sending signals of fullness to your brain, and slows digestion so […]
5 great foods for gut health
From the moment we’re born, our gut microbiome’s role in the body begins. There’s still much to learn about the trillions of micro-organisms – bacteria, viruses and fungi – that exist in our gastrointestinal tract, but the science has already revealed some fascinating associations between them and the healthy functioning of just about […]
Preserve your sight: Anstice
Sunglasses are far more than a fashion accessory. They’re an essential investment in long term eye health. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium (often called surfer’s eye), all of which can affect vision and comfort over time. “Possibly one of the most important […]
Kicking injuries to touch: Muscle People
With the start of summer, we love to get active; cricket, tennis, touch rugby, and tramping. All the outdoor activities that New Zealanders love increase the risk of common injuries such as strains and sprains or ligament injuries. A Kiwi summer is our favourite time of year to get back into sports and […]
Home & Living
Eat, drink, & be merry!
Before we merry make, we decorate. These key elements still leave room for personal preference and make styling your festive tablescape simple. REMEMBER: Christmas isn’t one size fits all – it’s entirely interpretive. Ignore the traditional customs and ask what Christmas could look like if it was all up to you. Utilise […]
Joyeux noël: French Blue
Nothing says chic gifting quite like an elegant collection of locally available beautiful and unique Christmas items. Each individual piece at homeware and gift store French Blue has a ‘Je ne sais quoi’ quality. Carefully curated under the expert eye of owner Catherine Matthews, vintage grain sack and linen cushions, exquisite European jewellery, […]
The perfect present
Welcome to your foolproof Christmas gift guide – these under $100 finds will fill the gaps from secret santas to stocking stuffers.
Christmas twinkle: Coco Gifts
We all know it’s better to give than receive. Easier said than done, because where do you find the perfect gift? Glance inside Coco Gifts’ Christmas window. In Liz Bloomfield’s gorgeous store, there is a trove of stunning gifts for special people who will think you are extremely clever for finding something so […]
One on One
A beautiful Britten life
Lifestyle content creator, entertaining whizz, home makeover maestro, keen green thumb, and the daughter of the legendary John Britten, Isabelle Weston is on a quest to make every moment beautiful – especially during Christmases she can’t spend with the late visionary engineer. She shares lessons learned with Metropol editor Nina Tucker. The time […]
Travel tailored: House of Travel
Award winning. Life-changing. Memory making. This is not your typical travel agency. All this, a 20-strong team and more in House of Travel Christchurch City’s purpose-designed space nestled on Victoria Street beneath The Mayfair hotel. From the moment you step inside, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special – and that stress-free feeling continues […]
Dux Dine’s new gameplan
Aaron and Amy Mauger’s journey together is one of resilience and hard work, Metropol editor Nina Tucker discovers. While the former All Black travelled nationally and internationally for test matches or coaching gigs, Amy was the rock at home raising their four children. Now they look down the barrel of a brand new […]
Priscilla’s new purpose
Priscilla Presley grew into womanhood in isolation and restriction. On 19 November at the Isaac Theatre Royal, ‘An Evening with Priscilla Presley: Life After Elvis’ takes back control of her own narrative – a privilege she wasn’t often afforded during her time with the King of Rock and Roll. The resilient Ms Presley […]
Build
Springing forward: Gavin Lloyd
Canterbury property has seen a strong start to spring. The spring selling season is well underway and Trade Me Property has seen a surge in new listings. In September, national listings were up close to six per cent year-on-year and nearly 19 per cent from August. We also saw property searches by prospective […]
Ice, ice, baby: Alison Adams
Our $328 million link to the ice of Antarctica. The weather might be warming up, but I’d like to talk about ice. The start of a new Antarctic season is a great time to reflect on our role as a Gateway City to Antarctica. Each year, Ōtautahi Christchurch hosts a number of international […]
Doors & Windows: First Windows & Doors Christchurch
From entrance doors to windows, sliders, bi-folds and more, it’s a new era for home solutions with windows and doors designed and built for our challenging climate. Contemporary windows and doors have the power to transform a home. Make sure the ones you choose not only look incredible but are built to stand […]
The buzz is building: Mayor Phil Mauger
Christchurch is the capital of cool and Show Week is all set to go off with a bang. It’s been great to hit the ground running in the new Council term. We’re cracking straight into work on the Annual Plan, looking for as many ways as we can to get the rates down. […]
ArtScene
The sparkle of festive season: Isaac Theatre Royal
As Gloucester Street glows with festive lights, it homes one historic, storied stage which becomes a vibrant canvas for music, dance, and storytelling that captures the warmth and wonder of Christmas. The Isaac Theatre Royal welcomes audiences into a season of live performance and holiday enchantment. It all begins with TINA – The […]
Sir Dave Dobbyn: Selected Songs
Sir Dave Dobbyn – Selected Songs At the Christchurch Town Hall Auditorium, 9 November 2025 Reviewed by Ian Knott. Photo credit: George Thomson / Live Nation Aotearoa – @Georgetommo / @livenationaotearoa When it comes to New Zealand music legends, few come bigger than the somewhat ironically diminutive Sir Dave Dobbyn. With a career […]
Life’s biggest questions: Isaac Theatre Royal
How did we get here? Is there life beyond Earth? Can you actually lick your own elbow? Introducing Creation Creation, a deeply thought-provoking journey of life’s biggest questions answered (sort of). At Isaac Theatre Royal’s Creation Creation on Sunday 12 November, two wildly inventive performers set out to tackle these very questions, and […]
The musical Christchurch never forgot: Blood Brothers at Isaac Theatre Royal
In the 1990s, a touring production of Blood Brothers, starring David Soul as the narrator, came to Christchurch and left a lasting impression. This September, it returns with renewed energy and local heart. Those who saw it the first time around still speak of the experience – the laughter, heartbreak, and the final […]
Business
Selling the Banks Peninsula lifestyle: Bayleys’ Liane Bean
Tucked between the Port Hills and the Pacific, Banks Peninsula homes come with more than breathtaking views; they carry stories, memories, and community ties. In this unique market, local expertise is key to connecting people with place. With a median sale price of about $955,000 and a unique lifestyle offering, Banks Peninsula stands […]
From survival to revival: Luke Piper
No-one can pretend it hasn’t been a tough couple of years but finally the green shoots of a genuine recovery are at last on the horizon. If 2024’s mantra was ‘survive to 2025’, this year’s has felt more like ‘survive 2025’. It’s been another grind for many businesses – costs rising, margins tightening, […]
Assisted, not artificial
The future of business clarity lies in embracing the assistance offered by AI, writes Olivia Hale, co-owner of digital marketing agency Digital Influence. When we talk to business leaders about AI, we often start with a simple reframe: stop thinking of it as Artificial Intelligence, start seeing it as Assisted Intelligence. That shift […]
New social housing: Vanessa Weenink
More than 65 new social homes will be delivered in Canterbury by Community Housing Providers (CHPs) in Linwood, Merivale, and Somerfield. Our Government is committed to providing improved social housing. That means building the right homes, in the right places, with the right support, for the people most in need. Having warm, dry […]