Rosalie Todd’s evergreen sartorial spirit
If you spot a woman riding a Penny Farthing in leg-of-mutton sleeves with frilly knickerbockers, she’s likely wearing a design by North Canterbury fashion luminary Rosalie Todd. Metropol editor Nina Tucker steps inside Rosalie’s sartorial mind in celebration of herArt in Fashion exhibition. “I am no legend in the fashion world of North […]
Where little hearts grow wings: Pegasus Nest
A thriving new preschool in North Canterbury is inviting local families to discover what makes it special during an open day on 4 July. Responding to rapid growth in Pegasus and increasing demand for quality early childhood education, a new preschool is helping local children build confidence, curiosity and a love of learning […]
Winning wineries
In a historic moment for North Canterbury, Bell Hill Vineyard in Weka Pass has been named Winery of the Year 2026 by The Real Review, writes Metropol’s Lucy Brewer. The Real Review, one of Australasia’s most trusted authorities on wine, has announced its 2026 ranking of the Top Wineries of New Zealand. After […]
Deadly design duo: Deadly Ponies
You’ve gotta hand (bag) it to them. Deadly Ponies’ founders Liam Bowden and Steven Boyd have fast become powerhouses in Aotearoa fashion with their internationally renowned luxury leather accessories brand. With Steven’s South Canterbury roots, Metropol editor Nina Tucker learns how vegetables from his parents’ garden inspired a spring collection, and which Geraldine […]
For the young & young at heart: Chipmunks Playland Rangiora
Keeping the little ones entertained is easy when you take them to an indoor playground designed for hours of non-stop play. But to keep you entertained, how does a nice cup of coffee sound? Whether you’re a parent planning your child’s birthday party, a grandparent looking for a fun school holiday activity, or […]
Apron strings and Path finders: Hawarden and Waikari
Preserving the history of Hawarden-Waikari in a series of autobiographical books has been a labour of love for a group of determined North Canterbury locals. For 124 years, Doc Sidey’s family has lived on their farm near Hawarden, about an hour’s drive north of Christchurch. Now aged 81 and still living on that […]
Canterbury rally
Starting in Rangiora and finishing in Christchurch on King’s Birthday weekend, the 2026 Canterbury Rally promises action-packed fun. With more than 50 years of history across Ashley Forest and North Canterbury roads, the Canterbury Rally is one of New Zealand’s most iconic motorsport events. The 2026 edition forms part of the New Zealand […]
Style your eyes: Eye-dentity Optical
Looking for a family owned, independent optometrist and some stylish new glasses? Eye-dentity Optical is a locally owned optometry practice based in Rangiora. The experienced team specialises in a range of eyecare services, catering to the key eye health problems they see in the region. “North Cantabrian’s often suffer from dry eye, as […]
Cleaning up the lagoon
Mention Washdyke and one of the things that springs to mind is the lagoon. The Waitarakao Washdyke Lagoon is a shallow, coastal lagoon north of Timaru – a wildlife sanctuary and refuge for birds, plants, and fish. The rocky reef of the lagoon was made from lava flow which turned to basalt after Mt Horrible erupted about […]
Snapped! Local street style
What inspires the style of South Canterbury’s most fashionable ladies? Essence’s Larnya Bourdot took to the streets and played paparazzo to locals that caught her eye. Karen Smith, Owner of STOMPZ My style is simple and sophisticated with a bit of edge. I love a good matching ensemble; Briarwood do that well. […]
