Chic winter layers: Made In The Shade
Winter warmth comes in every layer at this enduring store in the Christchurch fashion scene. “New season stock has arrived, from iconic labels like Vassalli and Lisette, and beloved local brands Bittermoon, Blackstone and Royal Merino,” says Made in the Shade owner Ali Donn. She’s the woman behind the beautiful collection you’ll find […]
Style your eyes: Eye-dentity Optical
Looking for a family owned, independent optometrist and some stylish new glasses? Eye-dentity Optical is a locally owned optometry practice based in Rangiora. The experienced team specialises in a range of eyecare services, catering to the key eye health problems they see in the region. “North Cantabrian’s often suffer from dry eye, as […]
A warm welcome: Sweet Lili’s Café & Bar
From freshly prepared meals and quality cabinet food, to familiar faces and a welcoming atmosphere, what more would you want from your local café? “I wanted to create a place where I could connect with people through food and coffee, and to be part of New Zealand’s vibrant café culture,” says Mike Li, […]
Natural gut support: Immunity Fuel
As winter rolls around, keep yourself well with natural probiotics and superfoods. If you’re looking for a genuine health boost with no hidden nasties, Immunity Fuel is the certified organic, high-quality probiotic superfood that nurtures gut health and restores balance from the inside out. This isn’t just another supplement; it’s a 100% plant-based, […]
Understanding the Oral Lift: Oral Design
World-renowned clinical dental technician and master of the transformative ‘Oral Lift’, Christchurch’s Richard Greenlees sits down with Metropol to unpack the aesthetic artistry behind his work. Walk us through the Oral Lift treatment process… what can a patient expect in their journey? The Oral Design NZ experience is truly unique. I guide each […]
See Footloose in Ashburton!
Ashburton Variety Theatre’s production of Footloose proves you don’t need to live in a big city to discover a thoroughly entertaining night at the theatre, writes Metropol’s Nancye Pitt in her review. Staged at the fabulous Ashburton Event Centre, this show bursts with heart, community spirit, and enough energy to have the audience […]
National treasure Gavin Bishop
Multi-award-winning children’s book writer and illustrator Gavin Bishop is a man who enjoys Zumba and can trace his whakapapa back to Māori royalty. On the cusp of his 80th birthday, he spoke to Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen about life, art, and cheese scones. “It is a very strange experience, turning 80 and […]
SIX60 music and mana
Six60’s Matiu Walters and Marlon Gerbes would tell you that the coolest thing they could be doing right now is opening Christchurch’s brand new stadium. That’s what they told Metropol editor Nina Tucker, just two weeks before the concert – their latest in a string of sold-out stadium shows. “You have to set […]
Glo show
Wellington’s iconic World of WearableArt experience returns from 17 September to 4 October, and after a three-year hiatus, crowd-favourite category Bizarre Bra is back. Mark your calendars and plan your trip to the capital now. The 2026 WOW show: GLO! will transform Wellington’s TSB Arena into six charged creative worlds, each exploring a […]
Fool-proof banana pancakes
Whether it’s Sunday brunch on a chilly morning or a delicious dessert, nothing beats a warm and sweet banana pancake. Fresh from her new cookbook titled More Than Toast, author Rhiannon Baldock says this recipe cannot fail. “I have been making these pancakes for years now, and they really are foolproof. The recipe […]












