Festive fragrances

Specific fragrances often evoke memories of special times and events, and so it goes with Christmas. I n keeping with that, Nevé has released three limited edition Christmas fragrances, curated by its founder, Tessa Lyes, to capture what a Kiwi Christmas truly smells and feels like. Check these out: • Wild Pine + […]

Add flower power

Fresh is best when it comes to flowers, and spring is amazing for fresh, fragrant seasonal blooms with which to add beauty to any room. From daffodils, freesias, gerberas, and tulips, to roses, orchids and hellebores, options are colourful, scented, and seemingly endless. Here are four suggestions for getting creative with flowers and […]

Ghoulish glow up

Halloween needn’t be yet another expensive occasion. Metropol’s Gadget Guru Ian Knott looks at a crafty options for spicing things up. Halloween “celebrations” still struggle to get a foot-hold in New Zealand compared with the likes of the USA. Whether your family goes all-out, or simply lights the odd candle to make some […]

Charming hand-crafted gifts: The Lyttel Kiwi Gift Shop

Handmade gifts tell a story. Masterful creations communicate value through naturally grown or up-cycled products, woven and tempered to speak to the discerning customer. A handmade gift is more meaningful and exclusive, directly supporting New Zealand artists in their specialised crafts. Lyttelton is home to The Lyttel Kiwi Gift Shop, nestled in a […]

A real grass act: Al-Mows

A well-mown lawn with classic British stripes is indeed a thing of beauty. A chieving that result for his clients all over North Canterbury gives Alan Davies immense satisfaction. “Mowing is what I do,” says Alan. “That’s why I called my business Al-Mows – obvious really.” Alan delights in driving his ride-on mowers […]

Unique and locally made: A Personalised Place

Handcrafted decorations that stand the test of time help make a sustainable Christmas. I f they don’t break when the cat knocks over the Christmas tree, and are personalised with family names and dates, magical memories will reappear year after year. It’s Tina Dudley’s fourth year at Christchurch’s Riverside Market, where she sells […]

Survive in the dry

Canterbury is due for a scorching summer so if you’re planning on planting a garden, it might be worth thinking about drought-resistant plants. Portulaca Portulaca is a bright and beautiful low-growing ground cover with succulent-like leaves. They tolerate many kinds of soil but prefer sandy, well-drained soil and love full sunlight. Dietes They […]

I’m in the mood for lighting

Customisable lighting helps set the mood, and enhance the experience of almost any occasion. Metropol’s Gadget Guru Ian Knott explores some very clever options. Whether it’s a romantic night in, an action movie night, sporting occasion, video game session, or just some ambient room lighting; being able to change colours and brightness is […]

Equipped to host: Total Food Equipment

When it comes to hosting, selecting, and curating, the right kitchenware is crucial to craft a welcoming ambiance for your guests. Consider investing in a selection of beautiful and practical items from Total Food Equipment. This staple home and kitchenware store on Moorhouse Ave is celebrating 14 years in business. Pop in on […]

All eyes on the avairy

If you are a bird lover and want to keep some of your favourite species close by, an aviary will make a great addition to your property. Firstly, take some time to properly consider the responsibilities, what type of birds you want to house, and how many. Common types of pet birds in […]