Famous faces, festive places: Local celebs on holiday
As Christmas lights twinkle across the Garden City, some of Canterbury’s brightest stars step into the spotlight once more to share their season’s magic. Mark Rocket, New Zealand entrepreneur, aerospace executive, and the founder and CEO of Kea Aerospace “This year I’m aiming to celebrate with a big Christmas family dinner here in […]
Mayor Phil’s summer uncovered
Once a year, Christchurch City re-elect mayor Phil Mauger trades his sixth-floor office and stretched social calendar for something much simpler – a few weeks by the sea with family. Metropol editor Nina Tucker uncovers the little things that make Ōtautahi’s humble leader truly happy. Come late December, mayor Phil Mauger will be […]
Finding the magic between the mayhem – Dr Libby
While Christmas can bring so much joy, love and connection, it’s just as easy to lose sight of the small, simple pleasures that make the season special. Instead of savouring the twinkling lights or enjoying the laughter around the dinner table, we can find ourselves obsessing over whether the house is spotless, the […]
Ganache chocolate truffles
Consider this your shortcut to instant chocolate bliss. These classic ganache truffles are silky, rich, and wonderfully generous, exactly the kind of treat that makes the kitchen smell indulgent and the platter disappear fast. Classic, silky chocolate truffles that make a delicious centrepiece or gift, this recipe makes 18 to 24 truffles (depends […]
For your Christmas table
Prepare for Christmas with home décor that brings a sense of warmth, joy and festive cheer into your home space.
The making of a Christchurch power couple – Patrick and Saima Smith
Worlds and cultures collided when Patrick Smith met Saima on a crisp July day in Canterbury. One half a standout real estate agent and the other leading a team of six in family law – together they’re a well-oiled machine each with a fiercely competitive edge. Metropol editor Nina Tucker finds out how […]
Camping fail – by Pattie Pegler
I want to like camping. It sounds so fun and carefree, pitching your tent, enjoying the great outdoors. But I am a camping failure. Admittedly, I was a late starter, I grew up mostly in cities where camping options were thin on the ground. But when I was 23, on a trip to […]
One year on: A celebration of past, present and future – Isaac Theatre Royal
The heart of Ōtautahi keeps beating. One year ago, on 17 November 2024, the Isaac Theatre Royal opened its doors for a once-in-a-lifetime night. “Glittering under the chandeliers, we gathered to celebrate a decade since the Grand Old Lady’s post-earthquake reopening – ten years of healing, artistry, and the unwavering aroha of Ōtautahi,” […]
Bowled over: Lawn bowls
Christchurch is set to host the Summerset Bowls New Zealand Singles and Pairs Competition from 2 to 9 January 2026. Head along and see what lawn bowls is about, while supporting some of Canterbury’s own bowlers. “It is an honour that bowling clubs within Canterbury have the opportunity to host the Bowls New […]











