It’s hip to be square

In a world of circles and discs, Metropol’s Gadget Guru Ian Knott explores a robot vacuum that dares to break the mold. Anyone who owns a robot vacuum cleaner will attest to one main design fault in the usual circular-shaped machines – round things don’t fit into corners very well. This obviously leaves […]

Talk to us: NZ Mortgages

With the stress of the election behind us, for Kiwi families it is back to the hard task of managing the cost of living, and high interest rates. As the new government takes the reins, we anticipate changes in the property investment landscape. Property investors are likely to re-enter the market, and it […]

Premier home (re)design: Smith & Sons

When it comes to your home, you definitely want a building company with a reputation built on quality construction, and offering sound advice. Servicing the Port Hills and surrounds including Lyttelton, Sumner, Redcliffs and Taylors Mistake, are local renovation builders Smith & Sons. Their reputation is backed by numerous satisfied customers who have […]

Top it off

Canterbury Cup and Show Week is one chance we get to bring our wildest fashion fantasies to life. Voluptuous silhouettes, prints, embellishments, and exciting colours, the Cup Week ‘carpet’ has seen some iconic looks. When we’re up to our ears in fabric and frills, it can be hard to know when to stop, […]

Do Christmas right

Christmas is a time of joy, and also of excess. Make your Christmas celebrations more eco-friendly with these suggestions. Quality not quantity Instead of buying boxes and boxes of plastic decorations, opt for top quality classic ones that you will able to use year after year. Sustainable trees If you choose a Christmas […]

Commercial realty takes off: Athol McCully

After many years of owning a business, life may change and the need to sell becomes a priority. Business broker Athol McCully, of NAI Harcourts, understands what it is like to put your heart and soul into a business, and then go through the tough process of selling it. From buying or selling […]

Outdoor oasis: Allwood Trees & Shrubs

Why do we happily spend massive amounts of money on a house, yet all too often neglect or ignore the garden? The garden is, after all, an essential component in the creation of a beautiful home. Imagine relaxing with a chilled drink beneath the shade of a stunning Mount Fuji flowering cherry, or […]

Home time

Relaxing at home is one of life’s pleasures, especially in today’s busy world. Certain essentials help to make that down time even more of a treat; things such as fine china coffee mugs, soft sofas to sink into, and ambient lighting. Here are some ideas:

Fruity wee salads

Fruit is a welcome ingredient in many salads, and we’re not just talking desserts. Fresh, frozen, or even tinned, many fruits add extra dimensions to time-honoured savoury vegetable salads. A classic example is a Waldorf salad with apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts. Variations include using dried fruits, such as raisins and dates. Fresh […]

A honey of a café: Spring Bank Honey

Like bees to pollen, nectar aficionados are heading to North Canterbury’s specialist honey café. Wanting to share some of its uniquely curated honey, much of it destined for international markets, Springbank Honey established ‘The Hive’ a café and shop for locals. “To enjoy beautiful coffee and food, and have the opportunity to experience […]