Artists unite for local kids
Three local artists share why they’re putting their work under the hammer again for The Big Art Auction Fundraiser’s second year supporting youth mentoring in North Canterbury. After raising an incredible $16,000 in its first year, The BIG Art Auction Fundraiser is returning to Rangiora on Friday 2 October. Presented by Big Brothers […]
Waikuku wellness: Ageless Antidotes
A self-care sanctuary in the heart of Waikuku is where beauty meets wellness. “Holistic wellbeing is at the heart of what I do,” says Donna Kaiser, owner of Ageless Antidotes, a boutique wellness and beauty therapy space in Waikuku’s Old School Collective. “It’s as much about nervous system regulation as it is about […]
From bare paddock to regenerative vineyard: The Tiki story
Tiki Wine & Vineyards in Waipara has become the first such business in New Zealand to be certified regenerative. Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen spoke to co-owner Royce McKean. When Royce and Sue McKean bought their farm in North Canterbury in 2004, it was a bare paddock. The couple, who first met in […]
Tempo & tresses
Salon owner and senior hairstylist by day, dynamic musician by night. North Canterbury’s Michele Webb balances being the lead vocalist of a pop-rock band with owning a top Rangiora hair salon. How did you come to own a hair salon? I’d been hairdressing for around 14 years, working full-time on the salon floor, […]
Fashion that works: Sally Mac’s
Customer loyalty, friendly advice and enthusiastic staff have helped this ‘world-famous in Amberley’ institution of style thrive for the past 30 years. “I started Sally Mac’s because I was frustrated with trying to find clothes,” says Sally MacDonald, owner of Sally Mac’s a women’s clothing store in Amberley. “I felt that women over […]
A new pulse in travel: Travel Pulse
A fresh name and brand, backed by the same trusted expertise, Timaru travel agent Selese Rowe unveils her next adventure with a company where the world is your oyster. “Every itinerary begins with that spark of excitement, the same feeling when you step into a new city, hear a new language, or watch […]
A pleasure doing business
South Canterbury’s business community was out in force in August to celebrate the winners of the 2026 Business & Community Excellence Awards. Leading businesses, community organisations and individuals were recognised at the 2026 Gallagher and South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce Business & Community Excellence Awards on Friday 14 August. The evening celebrated excellence […]
Written on stone: Māori Rock Art
Ancient drawings, fragile landscapes and a 20-year labour of love: farmer and author Philippa F. Graham’s new book South Island Māori Rock Art explores the remarkable history and enduring mystery of Māori rock art in the South Island. In 1916, American anthropologist and antiquarian James Lee Elmore arrived in New Zealand to study […]
More than just a ring: The Ringmakers
Choosing an engagement ring is a huge moment in a relationship. Don’t do it alone. Decisions about engagement rings can be daunting. Should the couple choose together? Should a ring be bought to surprise? You don’t need to decide alone. Working closely with a manufacturing jeweller throughout the process means getting the benefit […]
South Canterbury food drive: Presbyterian Support South Canterbury
‘Can’ you help fill a cupboard and a tummy this South Canterbury anniversary weekend? Rising food costs, power bills, rent, and everyday expenses mean that more people are finding it difficult to put healthy meals on the table. For some South Canterbury children, hunger is a daily reality. The annual Food Drive for […]
