Gifts beyond compare: French Blue
Sometimes the search for that special gift can be a frustrating experience, often resulting in a hasty and disappointing purchase. French Blue removes all such anxieties, with matchless giftware curated from Europe, the Middle East, and North America, think France, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Holland, Portugal, Poland, Denmark, Israel, Morocco, and Mexico. From tableware, […]
Suit Up
Long and linear, baggy or oversized, form-fitting, three-piece or separates, there are a myriad of ways to wear a suit. The best descriptor is elegant and empowering. Curated by Nina Tucker. The suit represents an historic change for womenswear thanks to Coco Chanel, a movement into power dressing. These ‘androgynous chic’ looks are […]
Making house dreams come true: Dream Doors, Dream Bathrooms
Are you looking to elevate your bathroom or kitchen? Experience the joy of cooking in a gleaming new kitchen or relaxing in a stunning new bathroom. Dream Doors Christchurch focuses on creating dream kitchens, and they recently launched Dream Bathrooms to provide the perfect solutions. Owner and operator Adrian Kay says that adding […]
The life of Dai Henwood
Kiwi comedian Dai Henwood has spent the last three years living “in the now” after his devastating stage 4 bowel cancer diagnosis. Metropol Editor Lynda Papesch caught up with him recently to talk about his past, present, and “futile” future. Life goes on, one day at a time for Dai, with good moments […]
Is collagen the road to younger skin?
Jennifer Aniston and Kate Hudson swear by collagen, and have done so for years. While no stranger to dermatologists, estheticians and beauty experts worldwide, the recent hype around collagen has truly put it on our radars. In 2023, the global collagen market was estimated to be worth US$5.1 billion. That figure is set […]
Raise a glass: The Elmwood Trading Co
For this Christchurch local and owners Marty and Naomi Fuller, being deeply rooted in the community is their driving force. For over five years, the Fullers have provided “good food at a good value price”, through The Elmwood Trading Co. The diverse menu caters for all, from pub classics like blue cod and […]
From startup to success, Monique Kaminski
Jeuneora skincare and supplement company founder Monique Kaminski navigated her startup to provide solutions and cultivate a community. Looking back on a now multi-million dollar company is nostalgic, the Christchurch businesswoman tells Metropol Deputy Editor Nina Tucker. Monique is her own boss. She has the freedom to set her course, driving decisions that […]
Outdoor wellbeing
When it comes to trends, fashion, interior design, cars, Kiwis often look to the United Kingdom and Europe to see what’s trending. One emerging summer trend in the UK is the garden sauna. London-based, award-winning interior design studio Black & Milk last year unveiled the pictured design of an outdoor banya sauna in […]
Towel treats
Trade itchy and irritable for gentle and luxurious. Those moments spent wrapped up in a lush, warm hotel towel don’t just feel great because you’re on holiday. It is because hotel-use towels are made with a higher fibre count, so they absorb water far quicker and are soft on the skin. A quality […]
Every sip tells a story: The Victoria
Warm and friendly. Relaxed yet sophisticated. Modern with a dash of history. The Victoria is a British-style pub in the heart of Christchurch with so much to offer. Unsurprisingly, it boasts 20 varieties of beer on tap, including a selection of classic English-style hand-pulls. For those with a sophisticated taste, the menu also […]












