Turning your vision into 2026’s game plan

As the year winds down, it’s tempting to just limp over the finish line and “see how things go” next year. With the New Zealand economy slowly emerging from a deep recession, and growth for 2026 expected to be modest rather than spectacular, a clear business plan is no longer optional – it’s […]

The nation’s top architectural talent

What does award-winning national architecture look like? Everything from a large apartment development to poolside changing sheds were crowned at the 2025 New Zealand Architecture Awards. The New Zealand Institute of Architects has announced its 2025 winners, chosen from a shortlist of 61 successful projects at the Local Architecture Awards in eight regions […]

Better business

Canterbury innovators stand out in this year’s sustainable business awards. Canterbury is making its mark in Aotearoa’s sustainability landscape, with a strong showing among the finalists for the 2025 Sustainable Business Awards. From schools to construction firms, and manufacturing to legal and social enterprises, the region is demonstrating practical approaches to environmental and […]

Is white cabinetry dying?

Will 2026 be the year that white cabinetry dies? Results from the annual National Kitchen and Bathroom (NKBA) Survey predict a kitchen colour shake-up in the year to come. From the hundreds of expert designers questioned nationwide, 40% predict earthy kitchens to be all the rage in 2026, a shake-up from the crisp […]

The future of fashion

Christchurch’s budding fashion designers and students of Ara Fashion School presented their 2025 collections to a sold-out crowd at PROSPECT in November. The three-hour student-led show was a runway into the effervescent, inspired sartorial minds of Ōtautahi – and a glimpse down the barrel of the city’s fashion future.

Tackling Christmas angst

From comparing ourselves to the carefully curated Christmas perfection of Instagram influencers to navigating the extra financial pressures of the festive season, this time of year can be a stress minefield. Festive fretting has become an epidemic. While the Christmas and New Year break can be a wonderful time of connection and celebration, […]

Pet presents

Don’t leave your pet out of the fun on Christmas morning. They deserve more than a super cool ‘pawrent’ for a present. Think festive, practical, or just plain fun.

Renewable energy – Vanessa Weenink

This fast-track renewable energy project has been given the green light. In April 2025, Genesis Energy Limited lodged an application to continue operating and maintaining the Tekapo power scheme, which includes Tekapo A and B power stations and substations, and the canal system. National have welcomed this project as the first renewable energy […]

Making Canterbury businesses heard: Leeann Watson

As the South Island’s largest business support organisation, Business Canterbury is helping shape the policy environment that matters most to businesses and our communities. In a year of sweeping national reforms – from the Holidays Act to health and safety legislation – we’ve ensured Canterbury’s voice is heard early and often. Our evidence-led […]

Water you doing this summer?

As the sun’s heat reaches its summertime high, how will you keep your garden quenched? To satisfy your garden while saving water, try these four tricks. 1. Use mulch Putting mulch around the base of plants in your garden, or even in pots, helps to retain moisture. A variety of organic matter can […]