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 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 […]
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 […]
Wild Food Fest – Hokitika
Celebrate all things wild, weird and wonderful when Hokitika comes alive on Saturday 14 March, 2026, with the legendary Wildfoods Festival. This iconic West Coast event continues to draw thousands of adventurous foodies, music lovers, and partygoers from across Aotearoa and beyond. Whether you’re brave enough to try a huhu grub or mountain […]
Destination West Coast
The West Coast’s slogan is ‘untamed natural wilderness’, and for good reason. It’s a playground of coastal landscapes, spectacular views, iconic landforms and curious wildlife – and a region which enjoyed record temperatures last summer. Stay a while this season and soak up the sun. Start with your own two feet and make […]
