Landscape to living space

Canterbury’s iconic landscapes inspire the latest in summer colour trends. Light, fresh, and easy to live with – that’s the brief for summer colour according to Dulux colour forecasters. Romantic tones and airy pastels represent a shift from bold statements to softer hues that work with natural light and bring a sense of […]

Renovation revolution

Staying put could be your best move in a sluggish property market. Here’s a guide to taking on that nagging renovation project. With the local housing market in something of a slow period, more people are choosing to stay put and channel their efforts into renovation rather than selling up. There are two […]

Timeless style: Maree Hynes

The history and garden tours at Harlau House add an intriguing new angle to a visit to the innovative interiors showroom on the outskirts of Timaru. Just two minutes south of Timaru lies a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. As you turn down the drive toward Harlau House Café and Maree Hynes […]

Bonjour, broderie

Broderie anglaise, French for English embroidery, is the answer to your summer fashion woes. Airy, lightweight, dreamy, and effortless (very Cloud Dancer-esque), broderie brings wearability and femininity to the summer wardrobe rotation, perfect for looming Valentine’s and ‘Galentine’s’ Day dates – and warm weather in general. A timeless needlework technique dating back to […]

Famous faces, festive places:
Local celebs on holiday

As Christmas lights twinkle across the Garden City, some of Canterbury’s brightest stars step into the spotlight once more to share their season’s magic. Mark Rocket, New Zealand entrepreneur, aerospace executive, and the founder and CEO of Kea Aerospace “This year I’m aiming to celebrate with a big Christmas family dinner here in […]

Mayor Phil’s summer uncovered

Once a year, Christchurch City re-elect mayor Phil Mauger trades his sixth-floor office and stretched social calendar for something much simpler – a few weeks by the sea with family. Metropol editor Nina Tucker uncovers the little things that make Ōtautahi’s humble leader truly happy. Come late December, mayor Phil Mauger will be […]

Finding the magic between the mayhem – Dr Libby

While Christmas can bring so much joy, love and connection, it’s just as easy to lose sight of the small, simple pleasures that make the season special. Instead of savouring the twinkling lights or enjoying the laughter around the dinner table, we can find ourselves obsessing over whether the house is spotless, the […]

Ganache chocolate truffles

Consider this your shortcut to instant chocolate bliss. These classic ganache truffles are silky, rich, and wonderfully generous, exactly the kind of treat that makes the kitchen smell indulgent and the platter disappear fast. Classic, silky chocolate truffles that make a delicious centrepiece or gift, this recipe makes 18 to 24 truffles (depends […]

For your Christmas table

Prepare for Christmas with home décor that brings a sense of warmth, joy and festive cheer into your home space.

The making of a Christchurch power couple – Patrick and Saima Smith

Worlds and cultures collided when Patrick Smith met Saima on a crisp July day in Canterbury. One half a standout real estate agent and the other leading a team of six in family law – together they’re a well-oiled machine each with a fiercely competitive edge. Metropol editor Nina Tucker finds out how […]