Something special
For your hard to buy, ‘has everything already’ friend; look no further. Practical and useful gifts with a splash of fun colour make for perfect birthday or congratulatory presents for those impossible to buy for friends and family. Functional accessories made from good quality materials mean your loved ones will get […]
Show them you care: Victoria Florists
We all need to be cared for and sometimes don’t know how to say it with words. The team at Victoria Florists helps say what you can’t with personalised gift and goodie baskets and bouquets to show that family, friends, and loved ones do care. The talented florists create customised baskets […]
Art, antiques & collectables
Those who have missed the antique shops and art galleries that used to populate Merivale many years ago have been delighted to discover The Vintro Room. Down the arcade at 186 Papanui Road, opposite Merivale Mall, The Vintro Room has a large and eclectic range of desirable art, antiques […]
The Clocks Bookshop
Not long ago many predicted the end of books. But during the 18 months that The Clocks Bookshop has been open, book sales have boomed and at least three other independent booksellers have opened their doors in the South Island. The Clocks has more than doubled the number of books it was […]
A treasure trove: Dusty Old Things
Dusty Old Things is a treasure hunters’ delight where almost all of the stock is pre-loved. Curated to complement the vintage are new items such as the realistic artificial flowers to brighten your home on wintry days. “These are on special,” says store owner Glenis Parker, “spend $20 on flowers […]
Girl, put your records on
Despite music streaming services being the norm, vinyl records have a hardy and increasing fanbase. Metropol’s gadget guru Ian Knott checks out a turntable that will be a talking point in any living room. Nothing beats the tactility of pulling a vinyl record out of its sleeve and holding it […]
Baby, its cold outside: Total Food Equipment
With the inevitable winter weather, it is safe to assume you’ll be spending a lot of time inside. Make those days less dreary by stopping into Total Food Equipment and adding a pop of colour to your kitchen. Owner Sandra McLay shares her new top picks instore. This stunning […]
Creating lasting memories: Art By J Steel
Certain locations and buildings always hold a special place in our hearts. Artist Jonathan Steel captures those places and memories, beautifully, to be treasured for years. “We form a particular emotional attachment to the family home. But the places we love can be just about anywhere… the location where we […]
Gorgeous and unique giftware: Malthouse Cottage
Looking for something special? Then it’s time you paid a visit to Malthouse Cottage Homeware & Gifts in Beckenham. This quaint historic cottage is home to a stylish giftware store offering a variety of products, some of which have been made by local artists and crafters. Whether you are […]
Handle it
Updating a look may be as simple as switching old handles for new. Handles (or door hardware) come in all shapes, sizes and materials, but choosing the right style is important. Door handles and hinges help give the structure a complete look in the desired style, so define what look you […]











