Kimberley Crossman: the star’s strength

A quick turnaround from her tropical honeymoon, actress and host Kimberley Crossman is gearing up for another World Vision 40 Hour Challenge. She catches up with Metropol Deputy Editor Nina Tucker about adapting to the media environment, managing mental health, a dream wedding, and doing her bit to make the world a better […]

Going the distance with Emma Timmis

On June 9-16, Christchurch’s Emma Timmis will attempt to break the world record for the greatest distance covered on a treadmill in one week. For the three-time Guinness World Record holder, it’s a game she’s played before. Emma tells Metropol Deputy Editor Nina Tucker that it will be no mean feat. She set […]

Leading the way with Maria O’Halloran

Running a department store in this day and age isn’t easy, yet chief executive of Ballantynes Maria O’Halloran is leading the way with new ideas, and expansion. Metropol Editor Lynda Papesch caught up with her after the recent opening of the company’s new Invercargill store. Since the age of 22, Maria O’Halloran has […]

On screen with Dea Doglione

Authenticity is at the heart of what local actress Dea Doglione brings to Neon’s new Christchurch-based crime drama. Metropol writer Alicia Carr caught up with Dea to find out more about her journey to our television screens. Dea’s character Sally Galletly and lead character Joe, a seemingly innocent cleaner by day and vicious […]

Editor’s Note: Edmund who?

I recently overheard a conversation revolving around a notable piece of street art in the Christchurch CBD. “Who is that,” the young woman asked her sister, pointing to an artistic rendition of mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary. “No idea,” came the reply. Their mother chimed in with, “Isn’t that the hill man on the […]

Editor’s Note: Mothers and music

May is a memorable month for several celebrations, not least of which is Mother’s Day on Sunday 12 May. Most of us have a maternal figure or two in our lives, and on this day often also fondly remember those who have passed. Mother doesn’t just mean the woman who gave birth to […]

Guitar great Tommy Emmanuel

Legendary guitar virtuoso Tommy Emmanuel played Christchurch in April this year. Metropol Editor Lynda Papesch caught up with him to talk life, music, and inspiration. On his first tour to New Zealand in six years, world-renowned guitarist Tommy Emmanuel left audiences in no doubt that he is a master. A living legend in […]

Launching love with Emily Heazlewood

Changing the dating scene with her matchmaking application, Christchurch entrepreneur Emily Heazlewood has a knack for turning ideas into reality – or apps. She catches up with Metropol Deputy Editor Nina Tucker on sacrifice, self-teaching, and saying yes. People are talking about love. Relationship dynamics and meaningful connections are hot topics. The Japanese […]

Happily evolving with Judy Bailey

From mother of the nation to doting grandmother and author has been a rewarding transition for former television newsreader/journalist Judy Bailey. Along the way she has returned to her first love of writing, as she explains to Metropol Editor, Lynda Papesch. Almost 20 years have passed since TVNZ broadcaster Judy Bailey signed off […]

A new beginning with Gretchen La Roche

What do books, theatre, Indian food and indulgent cakes have in common? The answer is The Court Theatre’s new executive director Gretchen La Roche, who spoke with Metropol Editor Lynda Papesch recently. Described as well-respected and a seasoned arts executive, Gretchen La Roche is multi-layered, like a well-written play. Returning to Christchurch to […]