Cartoonist’s slice of heaven
Farmer, rugby player, and much-loved cartoonist, Murray Ball has been brought to life in a new book by his son Mason. Murray Ball: A Cartoonist’s Life, written by Mason Ball is a warm and humorous first biography of Murray. It tells the story of how Murray became the leading cartoonist of his generation, […]
Crowning glory Susi Meares
Susi Meares’ passion for hats and headpieces has taken her into the captivating realm of high-fashion headwear, even without a background in fashion or millinery. Metropol’s deputy editor Daniella Judge unravels Susi’s story. One of New Zealand’s most prominent headwear designers and owner of Seventh & Figg, Susi’s career began with her love […]
Resilience expert Dr Lucy Hone
Director of the New Zealand Institute of Wellbeing and Resilience, Dr Lucy Hone is also an academic researcher, author, and contributor to Psychology Today. Metropol deputy editor Daniella Judge chats to her about why she chose resilience psychology, and her top tips for coping with challenge, change, and loss. Originally from London, Lucy […]
Showing up with Tracy Ahern
Everyone loves a show, and Tracy Ahern is no exception. Metropol editor Lynda Papesch caught up with her ahead of The New Zealand Agricultural Show, for which she is general manager. Tracy Ahern loves animals and shows, and it is just as well. Tracy spends her mornings, afternoons, and sometimes weekends, planning around […]
Magazine maestro Trevor Laplanche
Businessman, entrepreneur, and latterly a keen retiree, Trevor Laplanche is also the founder of Metropol magazine. Editor Lynda Papesch caught up with him, amid the magazine’s 25th anniversary celebrations. Once upon a time, Trevor Laplanche’s days were filled with selling, printing, and business. Now family and friends, travel, golf, boating, cars, art, and […]
A theatrical Swiss Army Knife, Sarah Buchanan
Sarah Buchanan, current president of Showbiz, is a pillar of the musical theatre scene in Christchurch. deputy editor Daniella Judge chats to her about her exciting dual careers and the places her talents have jetted her off to. Sarah started her journey in musical theatre growing up in Invercargill. From the age of […]
Fairways to good health with Sir Bob Charles
Many Cantabrians will have heard of golfing legend Sir Bob Charles. Metropol writer Neville Idour looks back at how this iconic sportsman stayed fit and healthy during his career. Arguably one of New Zealand’s greatest sportsmen, and certainly its best golfer, Sir Bob Charles firmly believes his healthy lifestyle has stood him in […]
Fab foodie Tina Duncan
A lifetime love affair with food for renowned Canterbury cook, caterer, and tutor, Tina Duncan, came together with the launch of her self-published book, Plated, earlier this month. One of New Zealand’s culinary gems, she talks to Metropol. Tina Duncan has always had a deep love for cooking for others, around the kitchen […]
Against all odds – Simon Challies
Amongst the names of those recognised in the King’s Birthday and Coronation Honours List of 2023 was local businessman and entrepreneur Simon Challies. Metropol writer Céline Gibson explains why. Simon Challies says it felt extraordinary and meaningful to receive the New Zealand Order of Merit (for services to people with neurological conditions) because […]
Flying high with Paul Francis
Self-confessed “birdaholic”, Cantabrian Paul Francis tells Metropol why he’s dedicated to photographing the country’s feathered friends. “Hi, my name is Paul and I’m a birdaholic. I’ve always wanted to say that,” he laughs. Paul explains that many people think bird photography is an addiction, and in some ways it is. “You’re constantly itching […]
