Historic charm for your event: The Old Vicarage

Whether you’re planning an intimate family celebration or a successful business event, the right venue is somewhere that offers exceptional service in a stunning location. Locally owned and operated, The Old Vicarage in Halswell combines historic charm with modern hospitality. Its character-filled rooms feature period fireplaces and bookcase-lined walls, while beautifully maintained gardens […]

Your guide to event style

Black tie, cocktail, wedding, business casual… what’s the difference between each dress code? Black tie The most formal of any event, black tie events command tuxedos and floor-length gowns or a structured pantsuit, and heels. Opt for luxurious fabrics like silk or chiffon and level up the glam with threadwork and embellishments. Cocktail […]

Creative to her core. Waimate’s Emma Heppell

“When we care about something, we’re much more likely to protect it,” says Waimate-based artist, author, business owner and ice cream scooper Emma Heppell. Passing that passion to the next generation, Emma encourages children to nurture their creativity in a digital world with her community art studio, and hopes her new children’s book […]

Tricks of the trade

What’s the secret to lush lashes and defined lips? The technology in tubing mascara, and deep, defined lips are on every beauty lover’s radar; here’s why they should be in your rotation. Goodbye, panda eyes You don’t need waterproof or water-resistant mascara to avoid smudging anymore – tubing mascara technology wraps each individual […]

Staying supple in winter, myphysio

Is your body is stiffening up with the cold of winter? Better movement means a better you, which is where a great physiotherapist comes in. A nagging knee makes a day on the slopes at Dobson feel exhausting. A tight lower back turns a beautiful winter walk or a weekend of kids’ winter […]

Staying well at corporate events

Health and wellbeing at events is a growing focus as part of efforts to combat burnout, seek genuine human connection, and reject exhausting, over-scheduled agendas. From organic food options to chair yoga and mindfulness, the modern business conference is a far cry from the boozy corporate beige events of the past. As the […]

Would you like fries with that? Makikihi Fries

How do you like your fries? Straight cut, steak cut, crinkle cut or jacket cut? The good news is, with Makikihi Fries, you don’t have to settle for just one favourite. Made from golden-flesh potatoes grown here in South Canterbury, Makikihi Fries have become a staple in Kiwi households, whether served alongside a […]

Leading the way

Be inspired and empowered at this year’s Leadership Speakers Series from the South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce. T he South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Speaker Series returns in September, bringing together six of the region’s most respected leaders for a professional development programme. The fortnightly, six-workshop series offers an opportunity for business […]

3 don’t-miss Christchurch attractions: Christchurch Attractions

Memorable activities offering something unique make an ordinary event unforgettable. In Christchurch, take your pick from the variety of local attractions designed to enhance your next conference, event or end of year celebration. Christchurch Gondola Your gateway to gorgeous views of the city, the Gondola offers a memorable and picturesque backdrop for a […]

Food, glorious food: Ross Steele

The strength of Canterbury’s local food ecosystem is reflected in the region’s recent Michelin success. One of the great privileges of living in Canterbury is access to an extraordinary network of growers, farmers, fishers and artisan producers. From the foothills and plains to the coastline and vineyards, our region produces ingredients recognised not […]