In for the log-haul: High Country Carpentry
Who has time to celebrate 20 years in business when you’re busy completing an enormous and awe-inspiring log home? Third and fifth-generation Mackenzie region residents Heather and Lain Hellmrich ticked over 20 years for their building and renovation business High Country Carpentry last December. But the husband-and-wife duo haven’t put their feet up […]
Rock & Hop revs up
The Caroline Bay Rock & Hop began in 2017 with a dual mission: to raise money for Hospice South Canterbury while giving back to the local community who so generously support the charity. In 2026, it will celebrate 10 years from 19 to 22 March. The four-day long extravaganza has raised $900,000 since […]
Great tenants. Longer stays? Propertyscouts Timaru
What makes a rental tenants love, look after and don’t want to leave? Timaru property management experts Mark and Cassie Stone share their tried-and-true hacks. If you’ve ever had a great tenant, you know how valuable they are. They pay on time, look after your property, and generally make life easier. The tricky […]
Investing in the next generation
For youth development organisation the Y Central South Island, the fate of tomorrow lies in the tamariki and rangatahi of today. Their January expansion into their new building in Ōtautahi marks the success of their support services – success they’ve seen in young adults across Ōamaru, Twizel, Timaru and Ashburton for years. “A […]
Historic photo mysteries: Rangiora Museum
Can you help staff at Rangiora Museum identify any of the people in a collection of historic local photos? Words: Tamara Pitelen | Images: Courtesy of the Rangiora & Districts Early Records Society Did a ghost at the historic Rangiora Museum help solve the mystery surrounding an unknown couple in two old photographs […]
Cats and council chambers: Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon
Recently engaged to be married and newly elected for a third term, Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon is a man with plans. Words Tamara Pitelen Just when you thought life couldn’t get any busier for Dan Gordon – three-term mayor of Waimakariri, vice president of Local Government New Zealand, and a familiar face around […]
New year, new garden: Your Garden Genie
Transforming your outside home can be a daunting process; just knowing where to start can be the first hurdle. That’s when you need a helping hand. Or two. Transforming your garden ticks a lot of boxes, it adds value of course but most of all it makes your property a place you love […]
Voices & views of North Canterbury
The new year invites a renewed sense of energy and vibrancy to our local towns. We asked six of North Canterbury’s influential businesspeople why 2026 excites them; what challenges the region needs to overcome, and where we might find them when off-duty. Michelle Anderton Founder, Re.clotheme, 2A Good Street, Rangiora I’m most excited […]
Apricot tarte tatin
Golden, sticky and best enjoyed warm, this apricot tarte tatin captures a Canterbury summer at its sweetest – sun-ripened fruit, long evenings and just enough indulgence. INGREDIENTS 6–8 ripe apricots, halved, stones removed 1/2 cup sugar (white or light brown) 50g butter 1 tsp vanilla Optional twist (choose one): lemon zest or thyme […]
From zero garden to hero garden
A majestic group of pyramid-like conifers draw visitors up the driveway of Jim Kettle and Tracey O’Callaghan’s Rangiora property. The formal garden entrance belies the colour and delight that lies beyond. “Those trees were already here,” says Tracey when I ask if they require much maintenance to keep their structured shape. “We’ve never […]
