Sculpt & restore your skin: Isabel Castro
The journey to beautiful skin isn’t one size fits all. From Brazil to Christchurch, aesthetician Isabel Castro brings a tailored, advanced-technique approach honed over 12 years in the industry. “Enhancing your natural beauty goes far beyond appearance,” Isabel says. That’s why her treatments are tailored to the unique needs and goals of each […]
So cheesy. By Nina Tucker
For six years running, my better half and I have marked Valentine’s Day with easy, cheesy, homemade pizzas. We make the dough, shape it into hearts, and cover it with our preferred toppings. It’s so simple yet so special – an incredibly intimate date night activity and dinner in one. INGREDIENTS 2 tsp […]
Voices & views of North Canterbury
The new year invites a renewed sense of energy and vibrancy to our local towns. We asked six of North Canterbury’s influential businesspeople why 2026 excites them; what challenges the region needs to overcome, and where we might find them when off-duty. Michelle Anderton Founder, Re.clotheme, 2A Good Street, Rangiora I’m most excited […]
Curating calm
Breathe in, exhale. Bring Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Cloud Dancer (the soft, airy white you’re seeing everywhere) home to gently ground your living space – a calm from the chaos. Reduce clutter in the kitchen: Strip your kitchen benches back, keeping only the essentials – a few jars or condiments, some fresh […]
Loco for cocoa: Mind Your Temper
Going to the dark side isn’t a bad thing when you’re talking about chocolate. From melt-in-the-mouth chocolate truffles to whipped chocolate creams, ganache, caramels, bon bons, pralines, and more, Valentine’s and Galentine’s is the perfect excuse to go chocolate crazy. Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen gets the lowdown on what’s hot in local […]
Styling bookshelves
Who doesn’t love a cosy reading nook or a wall of well-loved books? Thoughtfully styled shelves add warmth and character, turning everyday storage into a design feature. There’s something instantly comforting about shelves lined with stories, spines softened by time, and objects collected along the way. Books have a quiet magic in the […]
Apricot tarte tatin
Golden, sticky and best enjoyed warm, this apricot tarte tatin captures a Canterbury summer at its sweetest – sun-ripened fruit, long evenings and just enough indulgence. INGREDIENTS 6–8 ripe apricots, halved, stones removed 1/2 cup sugar (white or light brown) 50g butter 1 tsp vanilla Optional twist (choose one): lemon zest or thyme […]
Fit it out fresh: Agnew Bros
You can’t beat gazing inside a classic or modern car, greeted by a spotless and high-quality interior. No rips in the driver’s seat and no tatty roof lining, just comfort, style and quality throughout. This is something Agnew Brothers know very well. As specialists in automotive and marine upholstery – and a whole […]
The power of presentation: Anthony Deyn
Looking to sell your house in 2026? Getting the best price is about preparation, not luck. It’s widely known that, overall, real estate in Canterbury is currently a buyer’s market. However, plenty of buyers are looking for their dream property, and a little strategic spending will add many thousands to the sale price. […]
Sparks fly
Live orchestra and vocals to a Valentine’s-themed soundtrack in Hagley Park on a balmy summer’s evening, finished with fireworks. Date night, anyone? We’re talking Adele, Kate Bush, The Beatles – the open air concert we’ve known and loved as Mitre10 Sparks, returns for its 43rd year. On 14 February, this dazzling entertainment extravaganza […]
