Here’s looking at you, Christchurch
At a time when government funding for the creative sector is plunging, Ōtautahi multi-disciplinary artist Jessie Rawcliffe’s murals confront such challenges eyes on. Her series, Gazer, brings life to overlooked spaces across ‘eye-conic’ spots in Christchurch’s CBD. Each piece informed by the surrounding area, colour palettes are inspired by the urban environment, from […]
This is eye-conic! Editor Nina Tucker
When everybody else is busy watching one another – on the street, on social media, on television – Ōtautahi-based artist Jessie Rawcliffe asks, who’s watching the watchers? If her work on our cover, or any of the pieces on page 13 make you feel uncomfortable and a little unsettled, they’re meant to. Embrace […]
What makes a pub famous? – The Famous Grouse Hotel
Lincoln has only ever been home to one pub. It’s stood in the same place for more than 140 years thanks to its feel-good nature. “We are country hospitality,” says Shaughn McNabb, co-owner of The Famous Grouse Hotel. “We are just good people doing the job and doing it with a smile on […]
10 day silent meditation
Could you stop talking for 10 days while also spending 10 hours a day in cross-legged meditation? Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen discovers first-hand why the Vipassana 10-day silent meditation retreat is not to be taken lightly. What’s it like not speaking for 10 days while meditating all day, every day from 4.30am? […]
When wine left the bottle behind: Vino Wines
At last! Premium wine in lightweight packaging for your on-the-go pleasure. Neil Pattinson loves a good bottle of wine. He also knows the bottle has a few flaws. After years in wine, research and biotech, Neil, managing director of Whistling Buoy Winery, could see the category shifting. People still wanted quality, but they […]
New season, new hair: Haar Design
Catch the light with a fresh brunette colour or sport a brand new bob this season. Master stylist Caro Haar offers up her expertise on bringing the latest trends to your locks. Glossy and gorgeous, brunette hair has become a big trend in Caro’s St Albans-based salon Haar Design. “Rich brunette tones add […]
Couch be tamed
Unleash your interior’s wild side with safari-inspired interiors. Sleek, chic styles lend themslves to a wintry palette, with a pinch of whimsy.
Coffee and ocean views: Barista Binks
Superb coffee, a warm welcome and stunning ocean views make this Mt Pleasant community café a place you’ll love coming back to. In September 2024, Barista Binks opened its doors in the community centre of Mount Pleasant. It was the realisation of a long-held dream for owner Talen Hignett and in those first […]
PACKING a PUNCH
It’s easy to appreciate the appeal of a Mini, writes Metropol’s Ben Selby. While the current model has evolved considerably from the original design by Alec Issigonis introduced nearly 70 years ago, the qualities that define a Mini – its enjoyable driving dynamics, vibrant personality, and engaging experience – remain evident. In terms […]
Elevated home décor: Urbano Interiors
How do you bring timeless style into your home? A curated mix of artisanal pieces, bespoke furniture, and hand-picked heritage brands. For more than a decade, Urbano Interiors has been the home of upscale home design, furniture and décor. Showcasing ranges that celebrate style, high quality, and timeless New Zealand and International design, […]












