Inspired to revamp: Alena Designs

Recent holiday festivities may have you reconsidering the interior design of your home. Whether you are jealous of your sister-in-law’s lounge suite, or are simply not inspired by the look of your home, Alena Designs is ready to help. Judy Pyne, Creative Director, and owner of Alena Designs, finds great joy in reimagining […]

Peachy keen

Interior decorators, fashion, footwear and accessory designers, and jewellers are embracing Pantone’s “Colour of the Year 2024”, known as Peach Fuzz. Described by the Pantone Colour Institute as a comforting hue ‘softly nestled between pink and orange’, the colour was chosen to express a yearning for community and cosiness during uncertain times. As […]

The power of H2O

The bountiful benefits of water are no secret. Here are some of our top tips to maximise water for your health this summer season. DRINK Carry a suitable sized drink bottle wherever you go to stave off dehydration. With a wide range of water bottles on the market, you are bound to find […]

Hybrid makeup products

New products are blurring the distinction between skincare and makeup. Gone will be the days of burdensome foundations and concealers that contribute to troublesome pimples and excess oil production. Many makeup products now proudly feature skin care ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and vitamins. This means that as you apply your makeup, you […]

Another award for Ravenscar

Christchurch’s Ravenscar House Museum beat a $138 million concert venue in San Diego, a $450 million state-of-the-art convention centre, and a new art museum in Milan, to win a prestigious global award for best new cultural building. The museum, designed by Patterson Associates Architects for Susan and Jim Wakefield’s Ravenscar Trust, won the […]

The River Is: Ashburton Art Gallery

At Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum, Iain Cheesman’s foyer wall artwork The River Is will be on display until April 2024. T he River Is is an extension of Iain Cheesman’s recent exhibition, Nurture Nature, which was exhibited at Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum from 19 October to 3 December 2023. Nurture Nature […]

Elmer’s Ōtautahi Elephant Trail

Christchurch is now awash with colour, thanks to the Elmer’s Ōtautahi Elephant Trail. Running now till 18 February, 2024, this free, family-friendly art trail features 30 unique elephant sculptures, with many telling a story of resilience and hope. The Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust is thrilled to bring author David McKee’s beloved Elmer […]

Long lunching

With summer comes endless opportunities to organise and host convivial long lunches. Set the scene with a few, or many places,   depending on the size of your party, creating tantalising tablescapes to intrigue and excite your guests. In many instances, it’s easy to begin with a base. A few white candles, polished cutlery, […]

Efficient real estate: Vic Raha

Is Christchurch a sound property investment compared with Auckland and Wellington? The quick answer is a resounding yes,” says Vic Raha, of Harcourts Real Estate. Why? It’s undervalued and comparatively affordable, he explains. Christchurch is an ever-changing hotspot; the city’s development provides numerous new attractions, and job opportunities, for its burgeoning population. With […]

New Year sparkle

If there’s one thing that’s associated with New Years, it’s a shiny, glittery, outfit. Add in some classy shoes, a bag that screams glam, and a pop of colour on your lips and you’re ready for the runway. Shimmer, sparkle, and shine at your New Year’s event with Metropol’s suggestions: