Discover a historic wedding venue: Staveley Co-op 1916
For a wedding venue that offers old-world charm, spectacular views of the Southern Alps, and the freedom to create a celebration that’s uniquely yours, this Staveley gem is well worth a visit. Whether you’re planning a grand wedding or an intimate gathering, the beautifully restored Staveley Co-op 1916 set in the foothills of […]
Māori creativity
Te Wiki o te Reo Māori 2026 takes place in Aotearoa from 14 to 20 September. To honour our official language and the beautiful creativity of the culture, here are seven pieces to shop locally in celebration.
Christchurch’s housing future: TAO Homes
Ten to 20 years from now, what will housing look like in Christchurch? Christchurch is fast becoming one of New Zealand’s most promising real estate markets, and according to Tao Homes Director, Tao Meng, the future demand for housing is defined by buyers demanding more than affordability. “Christchurch continues to evolve into one […]
A pleasure doing business
South Canterbury’s business community was out in force in August to celebrate the winners of the 2026 Business & Community Excellence Awards. Leading businesses, community organisations and individuals were recognised at the 2026 Gallagher and South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce Business & Community Excellence Awards on Friday 14 August. The evening celebrated excellence […]
..and the winners are
There’s no shortage of architectural design talent in Canterbury. Here is the full list of the Canterbury houses and architects recognised for outstanding design at the recent 2026 Architectural Designers New Zealand (ADNZ) awards. Hamilton Avenue, Mansfield Avenue, Flat 7 and Woodford Grace by Cymon Allfrey, Cymon Allfrey Architect Limited (Christchurch) Balmoral Ōtautahi […]
Aotearoa’s future of fashion
New Zealand Fashion Week 2026 felt like the event’s most diverse, empowering and authentic yet. Ahead of Ōtautahi’s own Spring Fashion Festival in October, Metropol editor Nina Tucker shares the best things she heard and read over the week. “It’s really easy to critique the New Zealand fashion scene,” says Rose Hope of […]
Hanmer trails
Spring is the perfect time to explore bike trails in the alpine village of Hanmer Springs. Surrounded by hills and forests, Hanmer Springs makes it easy to escape into nature and getting on your bike is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while getting plenty of fresh air […]
Written on stone: Māori Rock Art
Ancient drawings, fragile landscapes and a 20-year labour of love: farmer and author Philippa F. Graham’s new book South Island Māori Rock Art explores the remarkable history and enduring mystery of Māori rock art in the South Island. In 1916, American anthropologist and antiquarian James Lee Elmore arrived in New Zealand to study […]
5 pillars of wellness
As Canterbury prepares to celebrate the 10th anniversary of World Wellness Weekend on 18 to 20 September, the five pillars of wellness come into the spotlight. From nature-based wellness experiences to mindfulness and movement, World Wellness Weekend encourages communities to enjoy free activities that promote healthier, happier lifestyles. What began ten years ago […]
More than just a ring: The Ringmakers
Choosing an engagement ring is a huge moment in a relationship. Don’t do it alone. Decisions about engagement rings can be daunting. Should the couple choose together? Should a ring be bought to surprise? You don’t need to decide alone. Working closely with a manufacturing jeweller throughout the process means getting the benefit […]
