Latest Articles
Living child-free: Danni Duncan
Christchurch entrepreneur Danni Duncan is the face of the child-free movement here in New Zealand. Her aim is to head up the global child-free community, and the recent launch of her online platform The Others Club is the first step. Danni spoke to Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen about providing a home for […]
Steal their style
From décor to statement details, we deciphered three key trends that came across in winning Canterbury homes from the 2026 New Zealand Architecture Awards. Award-winning homes are some of the best places to find inspiration for new ways to style or elevate your space. True to their status (each home must first be […]
So much fun(nel)
BY NINA TUCKER Funnel necks have been named everything from the winter season’s chicest staple to the ultimate alternative to traditional turtlenecks – so what do you need to think about when shopping for your own? I purchased my first funnel neck coat a few months before I saw them everywhere. It wasn’t […]
6 ways to spend winter in Hanmer Springs
1. Catch the winter festival Immerse yourself in the alpine village as Hanmer Springs transforms into a winter wonderland from now until 18 July. With an ice rink, adult stargazing and grazing experiences, family fairy light walks, night light tree top climbing, and a bouncy castle, don’t miss New Zealand’s biggest winter festival. […]
Warmer in wool: The Wool Company
Wool is an everyday necessity for shoppers wanting sustainable and long-lasting pieces to add warmth to their winter wardrobe. As the Christchurch chill sets in, it’s time to layer up with the ultimate winter essentials, and there’s no better choice than premium New Zealand-made knitwear from The Wool Company. Founded in the 1950s […]
Behind the lens: White Chiffon Photography
From weddings to fashion, beauty and commercial branding, step behind the lens of this Canterbury-based photographer. Whether capturing a wedding, creating branding imagery, or photographing professional portraits, Crystal Kerr of White Chiffon Photography is inspired by the beauty of storytelling. “My love for photography began at a young age because my father was […]
Architecturally-pleasing outdoor living: Louvre Solutions
In pursuit of an architecturally pleasing and functional outdoor living space, the owners of this stunning home sought a custom louvre roof solution to seamlessly integrate with the unique design of their property. Shade from the sun, protection from the wind and rain, and an engaging environment for the whole family was what […]
Snug as a rug
There’s nothing like layering with a beautiful rug for creating warm and inviting spaces in your home during winter. While summer calls for minimalism, winter is the season for more – more colour, more texture, more layers to create cosy and nurturing interiors. Where to start? From the floor up. The right rug […]
Is your scalp sending SOS signals? Serendipity+ Head Spa
Christchurch scalp specialist and hair stylist Tatsushi Hasegawa reveals three warning signs you shouldn’t ignore. “Every scalp tells a story, and I love helping people understand what their scalp is trying to tell them,” says Tatsushi Hasegawa (Hase) of SERENDIPITY+ Head Spa. A master in scalp health, and one of few in the […]
7 reasons to invest in a wool rug: Carpet Binders
Investing in New Zealand-grown warmth underfoot is something you’ll wish you did earlier. Here’s seven reasons why. “We’re passionate about supporting New Zealand wool and the rural communities behind it,” says Michelle MacWilliam, co-owner of Carpet Binders on Hayton Road. “At the end of the day, no one ever regrets investing in quality, […]
Cosy up
As winter flicks our internal ‘hibernation’ switch and we feel the urge to hunker down, it feels good to create spaces that support that hunkering. How do you switch up your décor to make it more winter-appropriate? Through a combination of comfort (soft textiles), ambience (warm lighting), and styling (seasonal accessories). You don’t […]
Feeling the vibes: Alison Adams
Why a vibrant, energised city matters for Christchurch’s economy. Christchurch has felt more alive over the past few months. Packed sporting events and concerts, bustling streets, and a growing feeling that Ōtautahi is the place to be. That vibrancy is critical to how the city grows. Cities succeed because people choose to live, […]
Plastering professionals: Proudfoot Plastering
With the shortest day behind us and spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start ticking off all those maintenance tasks around your home and property. If you have any plastering jobs on your list, the team at Proudfoot Plastering are specialists in a range of exterior cladding, facade […]
Winter skin reset
As temperatures drop, Christchurch women are adjusting skincare routines to tackle dry and dehydrated winter skin, writes Lucy Brewer. Canterbury’s crisp winter mornings can leave the skin feeling dry, but with ‘skinmalism’ making a comeback, it’s time to concentrate on the skin barrier this frosty season. According to appearance medicine nurse Katie McIndoe […]
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Cuisine
Thai icon: Thai Orchid
Since 1989, Thai Orchid is where authentic Thai flavours, live music and lasting memories come together. For over 37 years, Thai Orchid has been part of Christchurch’s story, creating special memories for generations of diners. “My father helped build the kitchen,” recalls owner Jules Stokes. “As a teenager, this was where I first […]
Fire & Feast street festival
A two-day celebration of the very best Canterbury kai is your chance to eat Michelin star food without the fine dining price tag. P reviously Fire on High, an annual one-day food fest on High Street, the reimagined Fire and Feast celebrates the very best of local food and produce. Back bigger than […]
Paella, please! – Curator’s House
Where flavour transports you to the streets of Spain, authentic paella and tapas are among some of the can’t-miss dishes from this Botanic Gardens-facing restaurant. A menu built upon Spanish gastronomy from its founder the late Javier Garcia, and fusing innovation from head chef Victoria ‘Vikki’ Liptrot, Curator’s House is where tradition and […]
Climbing high – 27 Steps
Fine wining and dining doesn’t come any finer than this long-standing New Regent Street fixture. A few months ago, my husband and I wandered into 27 Steps on New Regent Street looking to have dinner and a glass of wine before heading to the theatre. We hadn’t booked, and the place was packed. […]
Fashion & Beauty
So much fun(nel)
BY NINA TUCKER Funnel necks have been named everything from the winter season’s chicest staple to the ultimate alternative to traditional turtlenecks – so what do you need to think about when shopping for your own? I purchased my first funnel neck coat a few months before I saw them everywhere. It wasn’t […]
Warmer in wool: The Wool Company
Wool is an everyday necessity for shoppers wanting sustainable and long-lasting pieces to add warmth to their winter wardrobe. As the Christchurch chill sets in, it’s time to layer up with the ultimate winter essentials, and there’s no better choice than premium New Zealand-made knitwear from The Wool Company. Founded in the 1950s […]
Behind the lens: White Chiffon Photography
From weddings to fashion, beauty and commercial branding, step behind the lens of this Canterbury-based photographer. Whether capturing a wedding, creating branding imagery, or photographing professional portraits, Crystal Kerr of White Chiffon Photography is inspired by the beauty of storytelling. “My love for photography began at a young age because my father was […]
Winter skin reset
As temperatures drop, Christchurch women are adjusting skincare routines to tackle dry and dehydrated winter skin, writes Lucy Brewer. Canterbury’s crisp winter mornings can leave the skin feeling dry, but with ‘skinmalism’ making a comeback, it’s time to concentrate on the skin barrier this frosty season. According to appearance medicine nurse Katie McIndoe […]
Health
Is your scalp sending SOS signals? Serendipity+ Head Spa
Christchurch scalp specialist and hair stylist Tatsushi Hasegawa reveals three warning signs you shouldn’t ignore. “Every scalp tells a story, and I love helping people understand what their scalp is trying to tell them,” says Tatsushi Hasegawa (Hase) of SERENDIPITY+ Head Spa. A master in scalp health, and one of few in the […]
Magnetic Resonance Imaging: MRIs explained – Reform Radiology
What is an MRI? How is it different to other imaging technologies? Here are the answers to the questions radiologists get most. MRI technology has advanced significantly in recent years, delivering faster scan times, exceptional image quality, and greater efficiency, says Reform Radiology’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Joel Dunn. “This is an exciting […]
Not just bad periods
Lack of awareness around endometriosis is adding many years to the wait for a diagnosis for women in Aotearoa, finds a new study. “Too many people in New Zealand are still spending years in pain without knowing that what they are experiencing may be endometriosis,” says Endometriosis New Zealand chief executive Tanya Cooke. […]
Mel Robbins’ 5 Second Rule
Five, four, three, two, one… go! Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen delves into the 5 Second Rule made famous by motivational podcast sensation Mel Robbins. Never heard of Mel Robbins? You’re increasingly in a minority, but if you’re not familiar with the podcasting powerhouse, or you need a reminder, let me bring you […]
Home & Living
Steal their style
From décor to statement details, we deciphered three key trends that came across in winning Canterbury homes from the 2026 New Zealand Architecture Awards. Award-winning homes are some of the best places to find inspiration for new ways to style or elevate your space. True to their status (each home must first be […]
Architecturally-pleasing outdoor living: Louvre Solutions
In pursuit of an architecturally pleasing and functional outdoor living space, the owners of this stunning home sought a custom louvre roof solution to seamlessly integrate with the unique design of their property. Shade from the sun, protection from the wind and rain, and an engaging environment for the whole family was what […]
Snug as a rug
There’s nothing like layering with a beautiful rug for creating warm and inviting spaces in your home during winter. While summer calls for minimalism, winter is the season for more – more colour, more texture, more layers to create cosy and nurturing interiors. Where to start? From the floor up. The right rug […]
7 reasons to invest in a wool rug: Carpet Binders
Investing in New Zealand-grown warmth underfoot is something you’ll wish you did earlier. Here’s seven reasons why. “We’re passionate about supporting New Zealand wool and the rural communities behind it,” says Michelle MacWilliam, co-owner of Carpet Binders on Hayton Road. “At the end of the day, no one ever regrets investing in quality, […]
One on One
Canterbury’s Michelin men
A Michelin star each for two iconic restaurants, and a special Young Chef award… meet Canterbury’s Michelin men. Adam Harrison, head chef and forager Tussock Hill Vineyard and Cellar Door Restaurant – Awarded Michelin Star, 210 Huntsbury Avenue, Cashmere One of only two Christchurch restaurants to ever receive a star from the Michelin […]
Living child-free: Danni Duncan
Christchurch entrepreneur Danni Duncan is the face of the child-free movement here in New Zealand. Her aim is to head up the global child-free community, and the recent launch of her online platform The Others Club is the first step. Danni spoke to Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen about providing a home for […]
Girl in a Savage World – Theia
She grew up riding her bike around the streets of Hoon Hay, but now this Ōtautahi-born alt-pop-rock powerhouse is hanging out in Beverly Hills. Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen chats with Theia (Ngāti Tīpā, Waikato-Tainui) about music, Māori rights, and walking barefoot in liquefaction. Long before she was touring the world, releasing critically […]
Skincare. Local products with social purpose.
Award-winning cosmetic alchemist Stacey Fraser is the mind behind skincare heavyweights like Trilogy, but it’s projects with purpose she finds most empowering. Metropol editor Nina Tucker takes a day trip to North Canterbury and meets the makers behind Stacey’s pride and joy, homemade skincare brand Beauty & Bloom. Tucked amongst Rangiora’s busy town […]
ESSENCE
Tree spirit: Daniel Holland
Forgetting to buy a Christmas present for his wife led to Daniel Holland becoming South Canterbury’s most talked-about chainsaw artist. WORDS: TAMARA PITELEN | IMAGES SUPPLIED Becoming a chainsaw sculptor was never part of the plan for Geraldine artist, nurse and hammerhand Daniel Holland. It all began with a stereotypical husband fail. “I […]
Winter walks: South Canterbury
From coastal to sub-alpine, short walks to multi-day hikes, South Canterbury offers a rich variety of tracks and trails to explore on foot or by bike. Walking trails to suit every age and fitness level are dotted across all three districts of Timaru, Mackenzie and Waimate. Enjoy tracks along riverways or the South […]
North Canterbury Women in Business
Our region is brimming with brilliant and innovative businesses – some of the most successful are run by the 11 women in this special feature showcasing the skills and talents of local wāhine toa. Deb Riach, co-owner, Coffee Worx The idea to start a coffee business quite literally came to Deb Riach […]
Snapped! Local street style in North Canterbury
What inspires the style of North Canterbury’s most fashionable ladies? We took to the streets and played paparazzo to locals that caught our eye. Natalia Baker, business owner Busy mum of five, Natalia Baker’s style is comfortable and chic. She’s owned Rangiora’s Gather + You for three years, and loves to support local. […]
Build
Inside Andy Ellis’ custom home where clean design meets character
Polished features and refined textures injected with elements of Andy’s playful energy… Andy and Emma Ellis’ latest home is an illustration of Canterbury-made excellence. Andy Ellis has built a reputation that doesn’t rely on noise or novelty. The face of TVNZ’s Moving Houses and a regarded figure in New Zealand rugby, Andy’s name […]
Fendalton finest
For its stunning design of a Fendalton home, Christchurch-based design practice PRau Architects has taken home a win in the New Zealand Institute of Architects regional awards. Just like it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a team to create a stunning home. From the vision of the architect to […]
Feeling the vibes: Alison Adams
Why a vibrant, energised city matters for Christchurch’s economy. Christchurch has felt more alive over the past few months. Packed sporting events and concerts, bustling streets, and a growing feeling that Ōtautahi is the place to be. That vibrancy is critical to how the city grows. Cities succeed because people choose to live, […]
Plastering professionals: Proudfoot Plastering
With the shortest day behind us and spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start ticking off all those maintenance tasks around your home and property. If you have any plastering jobs on your list, the team at Proudfoot Plastering are specialists in a range of exterior cladding, facade […]
ArtScene
Missing Robyn Kahukiwa search
The search is on for a series of missing artworks by one of New Zealand’s most influential artists, Robyn Kahukiwa, for an exhbition in 2027. Do you have a missing masterpiece sitting on your wall at home? Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū is issuing a callout to track down a series […]
Andiamo al cinema! Lumiere Cinemas
Let’s go to the cinema! The Italian Film Festival is in town from 3 to 27 September, with a gala opening event to kick things off. For 11 years, the Italian Film Festival has been showcasing the best of contemporary Italian cinema and timeless masterpieces across New Zealand. This year is no different. […]
Mānawatia a Matariki
Matariki is the Māori name for the cluster of stars that rises in midwinter, also known as Pleiades. For many Māori, it heralds the start of the new year. In 2026, the Matariki period runs from 8 to 14 July, with the official national public holiday falling on Friday 10 July. This year’s […]
See Footloose in Ashburton!
Ashburton Variety Theatre’s production of Footloose proves you don’t need to live in a big city to discover a thoroughly entertaining night at the theatre, writes Metropol’s Nancye Pitt in her review. Staged at the fabulous Ashburton Event Centre, this show bursts with heart, community spirit, and enough energy to have the audience […]
Business
Taking off the eye patch: Hamish Campbell
Sometimes I take off my eye patch and think objectively about why so many of us choose to live in Christchurch. Born and raised in Ilam, I left Christchurch to complete my PhD at Otago before building a career as a cancer research scientist and later as deputy head of research at Multiple […]
Wearable drugs
A Christchurch scientist has developed a world-first wearable drug delivery platform with a view to targeting the $10 billion US injectables market. Christchurch medtech startup Zuuka is preparing to commercialise a world-first wearable drug delivery platform to help people with diabetes, obesity, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s manage injectable treatments more easily at home. The […]
Legal ally on immigration – Vanessa Cha at Pier Law
Immigrating to New Zealand can be an overwhelming, complex and costly experience, but a local lawyer is on hand to help. Pier Law is delighted to introduce associate Vanessa Cha, who has come on board to lead the immigration team. The firm supports clients in Christchurch and across the country, as well as […]
Building the future for the Banks Peninsula – Vanessa Weenink
New classrooms and sustainable transport infrastructure on the way. I was delighted to see that communities across the Banks Peninsula are set to benefit from more investment in schools and sustainable transport infrastructure. The Government announced funding for four new classrooms at Somerfield Te Kura Wairepo as part of a $62.5 million investment […]
