Latest Articles
Structures of strength and significance: Fraemohs Homes
Close your eyes and imagine the first place in the world to greet the sunrise of the new day. It has unrivalled South Pacific stargazing, basalt columns, walking, kayaking, and scenic reserves plus stunning seafood delights. It is home to fewer than 1000 people, only accessible by air or sea, and hosts its own endemic […]
3 year plan for ponds
An activated sludge reactor will replace the fire-damaged trickling filters at the Christchurch Wastewater Treatment Plant to fix long-standing odour issues impacting local residents. Christchurch City Council and its insurer have settled an $85 million insurance claim following the fire in 2021, which destroyed two trickling filters at the plant in Bromley. The filters were […]
Greater wellbeing through quality sleep: Dreamwool Beds
Good sleep improves your brain performance, mood, and health, while not getting enough quality sleep regularly raises the risk of health disorders ranging from heart disease and stroke to obesity and dementia. Sleep time is undervalued,” says Simon Challies, Director of BrainTree Wellness Centre (pictured above left). “It can make as much difference as exercise […]
ChristchurchNZ Economic Analyst Sophie Jones: A summer outlook
In my role as Economic Analyst at ChristchurchNZ, I focus on the wellbeing of our economy. But it’s important to remember that economies are about people. Recent insights from Statistics New Zealand’s Wellbeing Survey reveal reasons to feel good. Canterbury boasts higher overall wellbeing levels compared with the national average. In 2023, 53% of Cantabrians […]
Perfect paintings at Bi-annual art show: Windsor Gallery
This must-attend exhibition on 9 and 10 November is filled with hundreds of striking artworks from over 40 local and international artists. It is a splendid chance to bolster up your collection and fill your house or office space with dynamic pieces of art. Sean Fietje’s paintings are exquisite in their intricacy and breathtaking in […]
An eco-friendly dragon kingdom: Turtle Creations
Martin and Petra Novak have transformed their love for dragons into a thriving business, crafting exquisite, eco-friendly dragon toys in New Zealand since 2022. Their creations—ranging from large, fearsome creatures to cherry blossom-adorned cuties—captivate the imaginations of both children and adults. “When we attend conventions, it’s amazing to see the excitement on children’s faces as […]
A Canterbury wonderland: The Rusty Acre
Hidden away, just north of Christchurch, is a delightful, one of a kind sculpture garden like no other. Charming visitors since 2018, the garden’s owner Andrea Wadsworth loves seeing the look of wonder that spreads across visitors’ faces when they first view The Rusty Acre. “They arrive and pop in through the hole in the […]
Celebrating 20 years in business: The Connect Group
The year is 2004. Facebook has just emerged, changing the way people connect online. Motorola’s Razr flip phone is the must-have accessory, defining sleek and cutting-edge mobile technology. Helen Clark is serving her second term as New Zealand’s prime minister, guiding the country through a period of economic growth and social reform. Meanwhile, blockbuster hits […]
Near and far
A day out, a long weekend, or an extended break away, Cantabrians are spoilt for choice when choosing a travel destination, and finalising where to go. Close to home in Christchurch, many suburbs and satellite towns offer a host of activities, regular occasions and events, in addition to plenty of exciting places to eat, drink, […]
Te Pae General Manager Ross Steele: Friendly practices
Living sustainably is all about making conscious choices today to safeguard our planet for future generations. Climate change stands as one of the greatest challenges of our time, influencing everything from weather patterns and health to food security and economic stability. In response, Ōtautahi Christchurch has embraced the UN Sustainable Development Goals, aiming for net […]
Treat your feet: Footprints Podiatry
Lavishing care on our faces, hair, and even our hands is standard for many of us. However, languishing at the end of our bodies are our hard-working feet. We expect so much of them yet offer them minimal attention, or even worse, we actively manoeuvre them into shoes shaped more for fashion than support and […]
Prioritise bone health
Healthy bones are at the core of our wellbeing, mobility and independence. People of all ages should protect their bone health by taking early action for osteoporosis prevention through bone-healthy nutrition, regular weight-bearing physical activity, and avoidance of negative lifestyle factors like smoking, says Osteoporosis New Zealand (ONZ). Following World Osteoporosis Day in October, ONZ […]
It’s almost time for New Zealand Cup Week: Riccarton Park and Addington Raceway
Our beautiful garden city comes alive during Cup Week. Fill the calendar and feel the excitement. New Zealand Cup Week at Riccarton Park: 9, 13, 16 Nov 2024 A Canterbury social highlight, the New Zealand Cup at Riccarton Park is fast-paced, featuring high-class entertainment. A stunning venue for it, Riccarton Park invites you to enjoy […]
Restoring New Zealand’s law and order: Vanessa Weenink, MP Banks Peninsula
Every New Zealander deserves to feel safe in their homes, businesses, and communities, but in recent years, that feeling has turned to fear for too many. Here in Canterbury this issue is no different. That’s why this Government made a promise to restore law and order and we’ve taken decisive action in our Q3 Action […]
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PAST ISSUE ARCHIVE
Cuisine
A sweet success: The Hive Cafe
For over 30 years, Steven Brown has been perfecting the art of beekeeping, a journey that began in Rangiora when he was just 17. What started as a local operation has blossomed into an international success, with Springbank Honey now exporting high-quality honey worldwide. Despite its global reach, the local community remains close to his […]
Sample Rolleston’s best: Drafters
Is there anything better than sitting down with a cold pint and sharing some tasty food on a gorgeous day? If you’re on the lookout for a perfect new watering hole, Drafters Bar and Restaurant, one of Rolleston’s hidden gems, could be what you want. “We love our locals. And they love it here too,” […]
Savour something special: Cafe Elia
Your morning coffee or food fuel is more than just a side quest to your day. It’s an experience of kind smiles in a calming space, complemented by sublime flavours. Find that feeling within Café Elia, conveniently located in the Harcourts building on Ilam Road, tucked close to Fendalton Village. Warm greetings and inviting décor […]
The first place to book your dining: First Table
Now there is a new, faster, and easier way for Christchurch diners to find and book a restaurant. Celebrating 10 years since its inception, the restaurant discovery platform First Table has helped transform the dining scene in New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom, connecting food lovers with incredible dining experiences. Since 2014, the platform […]
Fashion & Beauty
Treat your feet: Footprints Podiatry
Lavishing care on our faces, hair, and even our hands is standard for many of us. However, languishing at the end of our bodies are our hard-working feet. We expect so much of them yet offer them minimal attention, or even worse, we actively manoeuvre them into shoes shaped more for fashion than support and […]
Prioritise bone health
Healthy bones are at the core of our wellbeing, mobility and independence. People of all ages should protect their bone health by taking early action for osteoporosis prevention through bone-healthy nutrition, regular weight-bearing physical activity, and avoidance of negative lifestyle factors like smoking, says Osteoporosis New Zealand (ONZ). Following World Osteoporosis Day in October, ONZ […]
Dementia innovation
An American company has launched a photorealistic 3D avatar with custom AI, based on the lived experiences of people with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Lenovo™, in collaboration with British group Innovations in Dementia, says the project will give people and families navigating a diagnosis of dementia 24-hour access to a conversational avatar, Liv. She will offer […]
Uniquely yours: Sophie Divett Jewellery
Every piece of jewellery tells a story. A memory, a moment – there is so much meaning captured within. For Sophie Divett’s jewellery studio, the stories are endless. Since 2012, Sophie’s creativity has taken her from a small workspace to a beautiful gallery on Colombo Street, where customers can explore a curated collection of ethically […]
Home & Living
The ultimate home accessory
Wicker is a staple across the board, whether on your arm or in your home. There is always love for the wicker or woven-look basket, from their versatile chicness in home and living to the classic panier as the perfect everyday bag. With their natural, farmhouse-style vibe, these storage and style alternatives achieve an effortless […]
Greater wellbeing through quality sleep: Dreamwool Beds
Good sleep improves your brain performance, mood, and health, while not getting enough quality sleep regularly raises the risk of health disorders ranging from heart disease and stroke to obesity and dementia. Sleep time is undervalued,” says Simon Challies, Director of BrainTree Wellness Centre (pictured above left). “It can make as much difference as exercise […]
Perfect paintings at Bi-annual art show: Windsor Gallery
This must-attend exhibition on 9 and 10 November is filled with hundreds of striking artworks from over 40 local and international artists. It is a splendid chance to bolster up your collection and fill your house or office space with dynamic pieces of art. Sean Fietje’s paintings are exquisite in their intricacy and breathtaking in […]
An eco-friendly dragon kingdom: Turtle Creations
Martin and Petra Novak have transformed their love for dragons into a thriving business, crafting exquisite, eco-friendly dragon toys in New Zealand since 2022. Their creations—ranging from large, fearsome creatures to cherry blossom-adorned cuties—captivate the imaginations of both children and adults. “When we attend conventions, it’s amazing to see the excitement on children’s faces as […]
Build
Structures of strength and significance: Fraemohs Homes
Close your eyes and imagine the first place in the world to greet the sunrise of the new day. It has unrivalled South Pacific stargazing, basalt columns, walking, kayaking, and scenic reserves plus stunning seafood delights. It is home to fewer than 1000 people, only accessible by air or sea, and hosts its own endemic […]
3 year plan for ponds
An activated sludge reactor will replace the fire-damaged trickling filters at the Christchurch Wastewater Treatment Plant to fix long-standing odour issues impacting local residents. Christchurch City Council and its insurer have settled an $85 million insurance claim following the fire in 2021, which destroyed two trickling filters at the plant in Bromley. The filters were […]
ChristchurchNZ Economic Analyst Sophie Jones: A summer outlook
In my role as Economic Analyst at ChristchurchNZ, I focus on the wellbeing of our economy. But it’s important to remember that economies are about people. Recent insights from Statistics New Zealand’s Wellbeing Survey reveal reasons to feel good. Canterbury boasts higher overall wellbeing levels compared with the national average. In 2023, 53% of Cantabrians […]
Celebrating 20 years in business: The Connect Group
The year is 2004. Facebook has just emerged, changing the way people connect online. Motorola’s Razr flip phone is the must-have accessory, defining sleek and cutting-edge mobile technology. Helen Clark is serving her second term as New Zealand’s prime minister, guiding the country through a period of economic growth and social reform. Meanwhile, blockbuster hits […]
ArtScene
Giving life to stone: York Street Gallery
Debbie Templeton-Page’s sculptures seem to have a wairua that yearns to reach out from their solid foundations. Serene faces that could be dreaming death-masks, abstract geometric forms that fluidly shift and turn; and long, elongated figures stretching to the heavens. The Tasmanian-born artist has established herself as a master-sculptor, honing her craft in Canterbury over […]
A night of magic: Isaac Theatre Royal
Ten years ago on 17 November, 2014, a resilient Christchurch community gathered in anticipation. After years of uncertainty following the devastating earthquakes, the doors of the iconic Isaac Theatre Royal (ITR) would swing open once again to reclaim its place in the city’s cultural heart. For many, the idea of the old lady’s grand reopening […]
Where creativity flourishes: Art Metro
Jenni Foster has been attending classes at Art Metro for over half a decade. Jenni always enjoyed creative pursuits, but truly felt the need to explore her creativity as a reprieve from the stresses of her career. “Being a teacher, it’s easy for that to take over your life. It swamps you. I needed an […]
Live & Local: Isaac Theatre Royal
Nurturing Christchurch’s musical talent. Christchurch has long been a city brimming with artistic talent, yet too often, our local musicians struggle to find platforms that allow their voices to be heard on a larger stage. Recognising this gap, the Isaac Theatre Royal is launching an innovative programme designed to spotlight homegrown talent: the local artist […]
Business
Cruisy economy
Figures from the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research (NZIER) on the economic and social impact of cruise tourism shows the 2023/2024 season generated $5.3 million for the local economy. Total cruise tourist expenditure was between $23 and $35 million. The NZIER report for ChristchurchNZ revealed a positive view of cruise tourism, with 69% of […]
Talk to us now: NZ Mortgages
The market is certainly buzzing with activity. With the OCR dropping to 4.75%, interest rates are finally heading in the right direction at a great pace. Another OCR announcement at the end of November has the potential to see the rate go to 4.5% for the start of 2025. Our crystal ball hopefully sees 4.99% […]
Restoring New Zealand’s law and order: Vanessa Weenink, MP Banks Peninsula
Every New Zealander deserves to feel safe in their homes, businesses, and communities, but in recent years, that feeling has turned to fear for too many. Here in Canterbury this issue is no different. That’s why this Government made a promise to restore law and order and we’ve taken decisive action in our Q3 Action […]
EBI Business Improvement Specialists: Why ignoring older workers is destroying your company’s future
Ageism is an unspoken bias that’s killing workplace potential. Let’s be honest, consciously or unconsciously, many companies lean toward hiring younger talent, thinking youth equals innovation and experience equals stagnation. That kind of thinking really is past its use-by. Ignoring older workers means you’re not just missing out, you could be sabotaging your company’s growth. […]
One on One
MAMMA MIA: Sophie Harris
Sophie Harris was born with a passion to perform. Christchurch’s favourite rising theatre chameleon, who landed the lead of Sophie Sheridan in Showbiz’s MAMMA MIA! and Charlie’s love interest Lauren in Kinky Boots, shares stories of the stage with Metropol Deputy Editor Nina Tucker. Every childhood dream placed Sophie in front of an audience or […]
Making music with Andrew Penman
Formed in Christchurch in 1992, mainland brass pioneer Salmonella Dub is still touring extensively, releasing new music, and enjoying being on the road. Metropol Editor Lynda Papesch caught up with co-originator Andrew Penman, aka DJ Rudeboy, ahead of two Lyttelton performances in November. Times, music and technology have changed much during the last three decades, […]
Sarah Cotterall on success
Sarah Cotterall is the brains behind one of the iconic New Zealand jewellery brands you will find on the shelves of fashion stores nationwide – Silk & Steel. She tells Metropol Deputy Editor Nina Tucker about the 15-year ride. Ideas simmer in my mind until I reach the point where I need to start sketching […]
Fashionable apparel with Jane Coleman
Balancing fashion, international travel, and an active lifestyle are what makes Jane Coleman, General Manager of Apt Collections tick, as Metropol Editor Lynda Papesch discovers. An unfamiliar name to many in Christchurch, the tides are changing with Apt Collections opening its Christchurch store in September this year. Born from Longbeach Apparel, a New Zealand owned […]