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 […]

Style. Power. Intelligence. Gary Cockram

The world-class Geely brand – and striking Geely Starray – lands in North Canterbury, introducing a bold new chapter in Rangiora’s automotive market. Fusing striking style with advanced hybrid capability, the Geely Starray EM-i offers premium comfort, intelligent features, and performance tailored to Kiwi lifestyles. WIth Gary Cockram Rangiora’s $3000 cash-back deal, this […]

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.