Beautiful & boutique: The Vicarage Boutique

The Vicarage has been lovingly renovated and finished with modern comforts by owners Michael and Brigitte Barker – yes, of the condiment dynasty – while retaining its grand historic character.     The Barkers have created a very polished offering, with six deluxe super king bedrooms with ensuites, which can be reconfigured […]

Coming to a shelf near you: Bangers ‘n’ Bacon

Local purveyors of clean (the only filler is love), low-allergy meat and small goods, Bangers ‘N’ Bacon, is coming to a shelf near you in supermarkets and retailers.     Founder Pete Nolan started the business when his sons’ food allergies and intolerances meant many of his favourite foods were off the […]

Healthy, homely and delectable: The Craft Room Cafe

In Heathcote Valley’s secluded microclimate, healthy home baking lures the senses to Craft Room Café. The cosy yet spacious spot is relaxing inside or out, in the morning or afternoon sun. With parking aplenty, the weekends are buzzing.     “It’s teamwork that creates this happy hive,” says hands-on owner and busy […]

A lovely location: The Elmwood Trading Co.

A home away from home describes the fabulous warm feel and relaxed vibe of this switched up gastro pub. The Elmwood Trading Co fits up to 50 and is the perfect spot when tying the knot, or for having a pre- or post-wedding party.   The restaurant is French chic with a […]

Natural attraction: Resene

Encourage sweet soothing sleep with a bedroom painted in soft character neutrals, filled with natural texture and a warming palette of colours. Bohemian-style has really enjoyed its time in the sun. Traditional boho style is a delightful mix of pattern and bright colour to create perfectly undone – but totally done – […]

Complex repair, made easy: Jim the Builder

Apartment blocks and townhouse complexes have proved a tangled skein for many a frustrated and exhausted owner working through the repair process under the auspices of a body corporate management structure. A welcome ray of light comes in the form of local construction experts Jim The Builder.     Through word-of-mouth referrals […]

In good Gracefield: Jim the Builder

We are accustomed to seeing the perfection of the hill and architectural builds for which award-winning construction company Jim The Builder is renowned. A lesser-known string to their bow, however, is their expertise in earthquake repairs to existing homes.     A picturesque and historic bungalow in the central city was lucky […]

Kitchen gifts to love forever: Total Food Equipment

Avoid being the fifth person to gift your newlyweds a towel set by stopping into Total Food Equipment. Owner Sandra McLay believes choosing the perfect kitchen partner is like choosing your life partner: Buy once, buy right. She shares her top picks for new lifelong kitchen partners.     Miyabi Knife Set […]

Accessorise the big day: Zelmar Creations

If there is one day on earth which ought to be special to you, it is the day you marry the love of your life. Fortunately, Canterbury has its own Zelmar Creations making it simple with their fabulous selection of accessories personalised to you and your intended.     Whatever your theme […]

Wedding gifts to love: French Blue

For something exquisite from a faraway shore, find cherished wedding gifts at French Blue. Treasures made to last arrive regularly on the eclectic shelves.     Pouches, market bags, cushions and table runners made from vintage French grain sacks will be here soon. Each has a unique colour-band representing its regional farm. […]