Twilight in the Vines: CharRees Vineyard

Good things have always been said to come in small packages and when it comes to certain things in life, it’s all about quality over quantity.     CharRees meets both these briefs in a small family owned boutique vineyard just off State Highway One on southern edge of Ashburton, just south […]

Bellissima!: Molto Bella

The atmosphere in clothing boutique Molto Bella is so redolent of all things Italian, from the friendly welcome of three darling dogs to the gentle trickle of fountain water and the large Romantic period etchings adorning the walls, that you cannot help but be charmed by it all. And then there are […]

The hottest event in winter

At face value, the chilly temperatures of a southern winter wouldn’t necessarily be the foundations for one of the hottest events on the country’s social calendar, but when that event is framed by the wintry beauty of Queenstown and the champagne is flowing, it’s the top pick.     This year’s highly […]

Your new local!: Red Eight Cafe

Stephanie Reeves has always dreamed of opening her own café and three years ago, after retraining as a chef specialising in pastry work, it all became a reality.     She is now the proud owner and chef at Kaiapoi’s Red Eight Café and is passionate about serving top-quality food, excellent customer […]

Eat, Shop, Enjoy

There are plenty of reasons north of the Waimakariri River to tempt you out of the city because, although North Canterbury might be known for its picturesque landscape, it also has plenty of bustling hotspots and a jam-packed social calendar.     Kaiapoi’s Red Eight Café has been drawing people from far […]

The heart of Hanmer: Mickey Raes

Recovering from the adrenalin adventures Hanmer Springs is known for has never been as easy or as relaxing as it has been since Mickey Raes burst open its doors in this winter wonderland.     It’s been a year since Wendy Lamont took her formerly home-based business to the next level, with […]

A special northern stop: Red Post Cafe

Winter is well and truly here and a trip to Maruia Springs Thermal Resort or Hanmer Springs to thaw out in the hot pools wouldn’t be complete if you didn’t stop at the Red Post Café to sit by the open fire for a barista-made coffee or sample some hot winter fare […]

Top of the South Winter Escape

In New Zealand’s sunshine capital, seasons are distinguishable by the landscapes, with fallen autumn leaves adorning the footpaths or a fresh dusting of snow blanketing the mountain ranges. The ‘Top of the South’ is a region in which winter comes into its own.     Nelson Tasman is renowned for its temperate […]

Seek Spy, find why: Spy Valley Wines

Hidden in the heart of Marlborough, New Zealand, you’ll find family owned estate Spy Valley Wines featuring award-winning, sustainably crafted wines that capture the unique time and place of every harvest.     Six varieties of grapes are grown on more than 160 hectares of pristine vineyards. It just so happens that […]

Winter’s Hottest Ashburton Events

As winter begins to make its chilly presence felt, there’s still plenty of fun activities to keep the whole family busy, active and entertained in Ashburton over the next few months. Here’s our list of top events coming up to get you through those colder days and nights.     1. Room […]