Mike Pero builds a home for John Britten’s legacy
You’ll know the name, and if not that, the radio jingle. But Christchurch entrepreneur Mike Pero has moved on from high-flying business deals – instead, choosing passion over profit. His time, energy and resources are now directed into preserving the legacy of one of the city’s original innovators: engineer and motorcycle designer John […]
Yogi bare: Renee Stewart heart & soul
Defining wellness on her own terms, dancer and yogi Renee Stewart is bringing her mindful movement teachings to Christchurch. Speaking with Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen, she reveals how spirituality runs strong in her maternal line and that Saturn’s return cracked her open. As the daughter of supermodel Rachel Hunter and musician Rod […]
Famous faces, festive places: Local celebs on holiday
As Christmas lights twinkle across the Garden City, some of Canterbury’s brightest stars step into the spotlight once more to share their season’s magic. Mark Rocket, New Zealand entrepreneur, aerospace executive, and the founder and CEO of Kea Aerospace “This year I’m aiming to celebrate with a big Christmas family dinner here in […]
Mayor Phil’s summer uncovered
Once a year, Christchurch City re-elect mayor Phil Mauger trades his sixth-floor office and stretched social calendar for something much simpler – a few weeks by the sea with family. Metropol editor Nina Tucker uncovers the little things that make Ōtautahi’s humble leader truly happy. Come late December, mayor Phil Mauger will be […]
The making of a Christchurch power couple – Patrick and Saima Smith
Worlds and cultures collided when Patrick Smith met Saima on a crisp July day in Canterbury. One half a standout real estate agent and the other leading a team of six in family law – together they’re a well-oiled machine each with a fiercely competitive edge. Metropol editor Nina Tucker finds out how […]
“I’m not here to tickle spiders” – Nettles Lamont
Nettles Lamont is not afraid of speaking up or seeking change. The entrepreneur, philanthropist, trusted governance figure, mother, and past Riccarton Cup Day fashion competition judge has now added newly-elected councillor to her list of achievements – and no shocking government shake-up will stop her from smiling. Metropol editor Nina Tucker chats with […]
Soil to Soul – Angela Clifford
In a North Canterbury valley, regenerative farmers Angela Clifford and Nick Gill have spent 20 years turning 16 acres into The Food Farm. Angela tells Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen how growing and cooking food can heal and connect us. As our lives get faster, more overwhelming and less connected to the natural […]
A beautiful Britten life
Lifestyle content creator, entertaining whizz, home makeover maestro, keen green thumb, and the daughter of the legendary John Britten, Isabelle Weston is on a quest to make every moment beautiful – especially during Christmases she can’t spend with the late visionary engineer. She shares lessons learned with Metropol editor Nina Tucker. The time […]
Travel tailored: House of Travel
Award winning. Life-changing. Memory making. This is not your typical travel agency. All this, a 20-strong team and more in House of Travel Christchurch City’s purpose-designed space nestled on Victoria Street beneath The Mayfair hotel. From the moment you step inside, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special – and that stress-free feeling continues […]
Dux Dine’s new gameplan
Aaron and Amy Mauger’s journey together is one of resilience and hard work, Metropol editor Nina Tucker discovers. While the former All Black travelled nationally and internationally for test matches or coaching gigs, Amy was the rock at home raising their four children. Now they look down the barrel of a brand new […]











