Who’s responsible? – Property Scouts

Timaru property management experts Mark and Cassie Stone break down the infamous Osaki case – a pivotal New Zealand legal precedent from 2014 to 2016 that became a turning point for tenant liability. The Osaki Case (Holler & Rouse vs Osaki) hugely impacted landlords nationwide. Previously, tenants were held responsible for any damage […]

Timaru’s new health club

When Timaru locals Lexi and Hugh Slobbe’s lives intersected through their personal wellness journeys, it was a catalyst meeting that would prompt something much bigger: a luxury local health club. Hugh and Lexi Slobbe don’t measure health and wellness in six-pack abs or the number shown on the scales at their has-it-all health […]

Cooking with intention: Hanmer Springs

Most of us know and love Hanmer Springs’ unique setting and stunning vistas. Let Metropol writer Zoe Fenton introduce you to a restaurant in the alpine town offering a dining experience that more than matches its surroundings. All thanks to Scott Buckler – head chef of No. 31 Restaurant and Bar. Hailing from […]

Steampunk in South Canterbury

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 […]

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 […]

Craft and Christmas cheer – Mickey Raes

Forty years ago, Wendy Lamont was a schoolgirl making wedding accessories. Her business quickly grew into a thriving home-based venture, then expanded online. Today, Wendy is the proud owner of the beloved Mickey Raes retail store in Hanmer Springs – and after five months of weather-related delays, she’s delighted to finally open the […]

Growing community

An outdoor fanatic. Nature lover. Water enthusiast. And a mother to a young family. These are just a few of the characteristics that define Sarah Wiblin – the new manager of Hanmer Springs’ Thermal Pools and Spas. Just seven months into the role and getting to know the Hanmer Springs community, Sarah (pictured) […]

Your guide to what’s on in the West Coast

26 & 28 DECEMBER: WESTPORT TROTTING CLUB CHRISTMAS MEETING Gather all your family and friends to watch some horse racing. With ten different trotting and pace races each day, there will be plenty of high-speed equines to admire. 30 DECEMBER: REEFTON TROTS Get ready for Reefton’s largest annual race event. Pack a picnic […]

Lover’s retreat

Romance in the West Coast is right at your fingertips. Bursting with creative finesse, painted from a palette of emerald tree canopies and sapphire coastline, Hokitika is the small town that captures people’s hearts. Stay For a cosy, romantic séjour, stay by the sea at the Beachfront Hotel Hokitika. Choose from modern ocean […]

Cycle the wild – West Coast

Why ride the West Coast Wilderness Trail? Why not. Tumbling rivers, fresh rainforest, unspoiled open waters backdropped by the Southern Alps – the Wilderness Trail offers the best of New Zealand bundled up into one great experience. Divided into sections, it’s one of New Zealand’s most accessible trails with the option to tackle […]