Not just a pretty place: Larcomb Vineyard

We’re not going to pretend that when planning an event your venue options are limited…in fact it’s quite the opposite.   With so many choices out there, it can be hard to find the one that’s right for you and your guests. In order to help with the decision Metropol caught up […]

Platters to impress: Hanmer Four Square

The team at Four Square Hanmer Springs has a passion for creating beautiful, bespoke grazing platters – just perfect for outdoor summer eating to give you so much more time to relax and enjoy being with friends and family.   The platters are available for every occasion, from large corporate events and […]

A fête-full day! Hanmer Springs Fete

Lock 30 October into your diary now. That’s to be sure you don’t miss the Hanmer Springs Fête in the grounds of the historic Queen Mary Hospital.     The inaugural fête in 2019 saw 2000 people come through the gates from all over the country and even from Australia. One hundred […]

Vibrancy in Ashburton: Formosa

Ashburton’s vibrant and delicious Asian Fusion restaurant Formosa is the brainchild of husband and wife team Chef Dondon Chen and Creative Designer Amber Huang.     With no business experience – but armed with enthusiasm, a lot of inspiration and a passion for food and culture, Formosa will celebrate its third year […]

Dried flower trend keeps blooming: Victoria Florists

Natural, rustic and romantic: The popularity of dried flowers refuses to wane in 2020. Victoria Florist’s Leanne Lovell tells us how to include the blooms at your next inspired event.     Floral arrangements can transform an event, creating character and atmosphere. Flowers add colour, fragrance and a sense of occasion – […]

Making its mark: Pegasus Bay

Pegasus Bay has long been recognised for its top drops and now the exceptional space with its breathtaking gardens, lakes, wetlands and beautiful restaurant is making its mark as a premium event venue in Waipara.     “This is a new direction for us after 30 years operating our restaurant,” says Marketing […]

A taste of Italy: La Dolce Vita

The borders may be closed, preventing those much-anticipated overseas escapades but that’s not to say you can’t get your European fix.     La Dolce Vita Italian Cooking Classes, owned and run by Clotilde Romano, is your ticket to the world of Naples, Italy in Sumner, Christchurch. A culinary adventure in her […]

Chicken Musakhan: Recipe

  Ingredients 1 chicken (about 1.7kg), divided into 4 pieces (1.4kg) or 1kg chicken breasts (between 4 and 6, depending on size), skin on, if you prefer 120ml olive oil, plus 2–3 tbsp extra, to finish 1 tbsp ground cumin 3 tbsp sumac ½ tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground allspice 30g […]

Good times, food and people: Two Fat Possums

Well hello, possums! If you’ve got a party or an event on your mind, there’s no better spot to book than the function room at Two Fat Possums in West Melton village.   A favourite haven for locals and a destination for those craving great food in a relaxed and welcoming milieu, […]

Foodie destination: Number Five Cafe

Variety is the spice you’ll find most often at Number Five Café in Templeton. Owner Deb Agnew ensures everyone is welcome and every taste is catered for at her sleek but thoroughly comfortable café.     You’ll find beautiful cabinet food including gluten free, keto, plenty of fresh healthy options and an […]