Spring into gardening

Spring is a season of regeneration in the garden, but just like most things in life, new growth doesn’t come from nowhere. Here are Metropol’s tips for growing a luscious garden by the time the season hits its peak.     CLEAR IT UP Remove all the debris like leaves, sticks and […]

Married to architecture

Ever wondered what life is like for architects’ families? Anna South, who is married to Craig South of South Architects Ltd in Christchurch, shares her perspective.   When someone gets the chance to put their mark on the world in a unique and personal way, as architects do, it is only natural […]

In safe hands: Combined Security Solutions

If we’ve learnt anything during the past two months, it’s that security is everything! Security is at the very heart of locally owned and operated firm Combined Security Solutions, which started its commercial life on the very basis of protecting you, your loved ones and your hard earned assets. After 35 years […]

Growing up

Vertical gardens are growing into one of the most popular plant trends, as green-thumbs channel their love of gardening to new heights of creativity. A tonne of easy, budget-friendly options await – we’ve picked out our favourite DIY designs.     Give any small garden, urban courtyard or interior space the undeniable […]

Growing a passion

It’s obvious he is a consummate plantsman down to the very tips of his fingers. Managing Director of Kiwiflora Nurseries, near Templeton, Nalin Gooneratne grew up in Sri Lanka on his grandparents’ tea, coffee and pepper plantation. That heritage and link to the earth and the environment led Nalin to his career […]

Get your gardening on

What’s flourishing in the gardening world in 2020? From supersized houseplants to 80s flower inspiration, we give you the rundown on some of the coolest gardening developments expected to blossom over the coming year. Super-sized species 2020 – the year of the houseplant? It’s no surprise that these indoor beauties are top […]

Up your gardening game

As summer fades, garden sheds resound with activity as tools are sharpened, wheelbarrow tyres are pumped, yard carts are laden with gardening implements, seed packets are sorted and gardening gloves are inspected for holes. The dewy mornings and sunny days of autumn make for idyllic weather to connect with the soil and […]

Easy summer success with roses

Wanting six months of colour, great picking and good scent? Terra Viva Owner Peter Worsp tells us why you should look no further than roses.     Don’t be fooled by the rose ‘experts’ who tell you that roses are ‘needy’ when it comes to care and attention – they’re actually very […]

Unique approach to home design: Designer Homes

Designer Homes (DH) Senior Executive, Ajit Kumar, says it’s been interesting to follow the evolution of architectural designs over the last decade. Prior to then, New Zealand homes tended to be of one architectural influence – such as Victorian, English cottage, Greek Neoclassical, Cape Cod, Ranch and Spanish – but a far […]

On the out

In the warmer months it seems we spend as much time outdoors as we do in. So why not open up those patio doors and make the most of outside life by creating a haven for alfresco living?     First things first – it’s important to prioritise investing in quality outdoor […]