PHEV road user charges reduced

The thousands who use them have welcomed the Government’s about-turn on road user charges (RUCs) for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). In March, after rigorous complaints about the rates, Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced a reduced road user charge of $38 per 1000km, which is half the full RUC rate. Pending regulations had […]

Let the light in

Mood lighting and ambience go hand in hand when it comes to cold weather. In homes that do not have log burners, lamps can become the focal alternative for recreating that warm, cosy atmosphere that feels like a rainy day and a cup of hot chocolate. Play with lengths and proportions in your […]

An awesome autumn: Made in the Shade

Autumn fashion for 2024 boasts a pageant of colours guaranteed to turn heads and dispel gloom. This is the season in which women can embrace and express their individuality through their clothes and how they wear them. Made in the Shade excels in helping women find their look, and owner Alison Donn ensures every […]

Venison Wellington

For colder nights, try this classic Venison Wellington, using a seared tenderloin covered with a mushroom mix, wrapped in prosciutto and pastry and baked to perfection. Cook time: 75 minutes, Serves 6 Ingredients 1kg farm raised venison tenderloin 1 Tbsp olive oil Salt and pepper 1/4 cup Dijon mustard 10–12 slices prosciutto 4 […]

Hidden oasis in Bishopdale: Acacia Skin Health & Beauty

Imagine escaping to a place where your wellbeing is the only thing that matters; floating weightless in space, with nothing but the stars surrounding you, or just in a peaceful room with soothing music, completely relaxed and carefree. That’s what you can experience at Acacia Beauty, built on the dream of vivacious sisters […]

The skirt flirt

One of the most reliable garments in the book, the skirt has it all. The sophistication, the movement, the fun. Askirt offers a feminine edge to a workwear getup yet doubles as a garment easily suitable for a night out. Even better, they work with any shoe. With options in leather, wool, and […]

In wonderland: The White Rabbit Garden Café

You might feel you have fallen through the looking glass and ended up in wonderland with The White Rabbit and the Mad March Hare, when you take a drive on the Akaroa Highway out to Gebbies Valley. There you will find The White Rabbit Garden Café, as quirky and delightful a café as […]

Cardigans, cashmere, and couture

When you wear cashmere or wool, you’re covered in warmth and comfort. These feelings are mirrored in soft pinks, beige, and melange grey tones. Somehow, they afford a ‘First Lady’ energy, where elegance is often associated with muted and neutral colours. Style with pearls or gemstones for femininity and lustre. With the right […]

Embracing community: Isaac Theatre Royal

The Christchurch arts industry is evolving in leaps and bounds. Entering a new era is the iconic Isaac Theatre Royal. Arenowned venue steeped in history and grandeur, the locally-loved building on 145 Gloucester St is undergoing a transformative shift. No longer merely a space for hire, it is poised to become a vibrant […]

Launching love with Emily Heazlewood

Changing the dating scene with her matchmaking application, Christchurch entrepreneur Emily Heazlewood has a knack for turning ideas into reality – or apps. She catches up with Metropol Deputy Editor Nina Tucker on sacrifice, self-teaching, and saying yes. People are talking about love. Relationship dynamics and meaningful connections are hot topics. The Japanese […]