Cushion couture: Designer Becky Lee
Christchurch is home to a kaleidoscope of colour in cushion form. “Without apology I am a self-confessed colour-holic from the tip of my ruby red slippers to the top of my tiara,” interior designer Becky Lee says, better known as The Cushion Couturier. “As far as black goes I own a studded black […]
Steampunk in North Otago
Words: Pattie Pegler | Images: Supplied by Steampunk HQ An old-fashioned dentist’s chair, some rusty old vehicles, a bull’s head atop a human body, strange gadgets that whirr and hiss… Steampunk HQ is an art collaboration and gallery in the historic Victorian precinct of Ōamaru that lets you experience life in a dystopian […]
Events and tourism: Vanessa Weenink
Successful bids in Christchurch against a backdrop of Kiwi legends. The first round of the government’s major events funding showcases many exciting international and homegrown music acts, sports matches, arts, and cultural events kicking off this year, and I’m looking forward to more being added in the coming months. New Zealand’s economy is […]
Beat the heat
Don’t wait until your pooch is panting to cool them down. Canterbury temperatures have hit the 30s this summer, which means your pets need help to beat the heat. Christchurch City Council Acting Animal Services Manager Ivan Trethowen says there are many things to consider to ensure your pet is safe and comfortable […]
Choc-dipped almond and pepita bars
A healthy pick-me-up snack for taking to work or popping in the kids’ school lunchbox, these gluten-free nutty bars deliver a fix of healthy fats and a sustained energy boost. INGREDIENTS – Makes: 16 | Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 30 mins 1 cup white sesame seeds 1/2 cup pepitas (pumpkin […]
Homes with heart: Heartland Homes
Planning a new home build? With more than 1000 builds under its belt, one local building company offers personalised design and builds to suit any lifestyle, from farm cottages to granny flats or your dream family home. Set just off Carters Road in Amberley, the display homes of Heartland Homes South Island sit […]
Chairs to that
Visualise yourself basking in the summer sun, comfortably reclining on your favourite chair. Now, what makes the perfect outdoor chair? With endless considerations from durability, aesthetics, to comfort, practicality, and price, finding furniture can be overwhelming. Before you seek out the chair of your dreams, consider the chair’s function. Why do you want […]
Christchurch earthquakes 15 year anniversary: then & now photos
February 2026 marks 15 years since the magnitude 6.3 Christchurch earthquake shook the city, took 185 lives, injured thousands, and left tens of thousands with emotional scars. It’s impossible to overstate the profound impact this tragedy had on our city – so in commemoration of its anniversary, we reflect on how far we’ve […]
Sky high shade
Pantone’s 2026 colour of the year asks the question (colour lovers, brace yourselves): is minimalism here to stay? P antone’s 2026 colour of the year, Cloud Dancer is “a lofty white that serves as a symbol of calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection”. Following its 2025 predecessor Mocha […]
Mental capacity and the law
If someone you loved lost their mental capacity, is there someone close who is legally entitled to make critical decisions on their behalf? For many of us, the thought of future planning is a daunting prospect. Yet the reality is that none of us can predict what might happen to our health or […]
