Steampunk in North Otago

Words: Pattie Pegler | Images: Supplied by Steampunk HQ An old-fashioned dentist’s chair, some rusty old vehicles, a bull’s head atop a human body, strange gadgets that whirr and hiss… Steampunk HQ is an art collaboration and gallery in the historic Victorian precinct of Ōamaru that lets you experience life in a dystopian […]

Timeless style: Maree Hynes

The history and garden tours at Harlau House add an intriguing new angle to a visit to the innovative interiors showroom on the outskirts of Timaru. Just two minutes south of Timaru lies a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. As you turn down the drive toward Harlau House Café and Maree Hynes […]

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.

Camping fail – by Pattie Pegler

I want to like camping. It sounds so fun and carefree, pitching your tent, enjoying the great outdoors. But I am a camping failure. Admittedly, I was a late starter, I grew up mostly in cities where camping options were thin on the ground. But when I was 23, on a trip to […]

Summer fun – camping tips

There’s something about summer in North Canterbury that makes packing the tent, lighting the camp stove and slowing right down feel like second nature. The Good Camping Guide Camping comes with its challenges, but it’s always worth the effort. In North Canterbury, find a range of fabulous spots to set up camp during […]

Shand House stands again

A building beloved to the Timaru community – and its school’s Old Girls – Shand House is in the final stages of resurrection. Words by Nina Tucker. Images supplied. “Watching a building with so much history come back to life has been a truly rewarding experience,” Craighead Diocesan School’s Chief Operations Manager Renae […]

Get festive in North Canterbury

December calls for Christmas festivities in warm weather. North Canterbury is one place to be with seasonal events and entertainment to share with friends, family, or colleagues. Kaiapoi Sounds of Summer Embrace the warm weather with an evening of music. Kaiapoi Sounds of Summer is taking place on 7 December with headline act […]

Paint and snack in North Canterbury

Paint and sip is becoming a popular activity choice in spurs of boredom. Yet, finding something beautiful that inspires creative expression when you need it often becomes the obstacle. Such awe-inspiring views can be found in scenic North Canterbury. However, this destination area requires a small distance to travel, so we introduce a […]