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 […]
Misson possible with Emma Lewisham
Back from London Fashion Week, and launching an innovative new product, Kiwi skincare queen Emma Lewisham continues her mission to become the global benchmark in beauty products. Metropol editor Lynda Papesch looks back on her journey. Many women will be familiar with the beautiful purple and pink glass jars and bottles housing Emma […]
Storytelling with Jason Gunn
Everyone has a story to tell, and there are plenty of stages on which television personality and communications coach Jason Gunn can bring life to them. Metropol editor Lynda Papesch explains. W hen Jason Gunn describes himself, the word storyteller rings out loudly across the airwaves. He’s many things – actor, broadcaster, communication […]
Window of opportunity with Rebecca Stewart
Rebecca Stewart acquired her first piece of jewellery from Youngs Jewellers, the same store where she was offered a part-time job after staring in awe at their window display. Now, that same shop is hers. Metropol writer Nina Tucker caught up with Rebecca about business, motherhood and jewels. Standing before a gorgeous jewellery […]
Road to Olympia – Leah Reuben
When the International Federation of Body Builders (IFBB) Pro Show takes place in Hawaii on 18 November, Leah Reuben from Christchurch will be amongst the international competitors. Metropol writer Céline Gibson looks into the world of bodybuilding. Posing before a panel of rigorous and exacting bodybuilding judges is a far cry from Leah […]
A pageant’s impact – Tessa Nicholas
Glamour, poise, outer beauty. There’s more to those who take the pageantry stage than meets the eye. Metropol writer Nina Tucker talks with Christchurch’s 2023 Mrs Aotearoa candidate, Tessa Nicholas. Recently crowned Charity Queen at the Mrs Aotearoa 2023 grand finale in August, for her work in making the country a better place, […]
Knit one, purl one: The art of yarn bombing unravelled
What drives someone to cover a tree with an intricately knitted creation? Metropol writer Cheryl Colley spoke with Lynne Lawson, a Christchurch devotee of yarn bombing. When street benches turn into couches with soft knitted coverings, trees and public statues sprout colourful woollen coverings, it’s all to do with yarn bombing. Using knitted […]
Zed and beyond
New Zealand pop rock band Zed and Christchurch’s iconic brunch spot Addington Coffee Co-op have one thing in common, and that’s drummer Adrian Palmer. Metropol’s deputy editor Daniella Judge chats to him about his past, present, and future. K iwi band Zed became a pop rock sensation when it burst on to […]
Flip Grater a slice of Paris
Musician, songwriter, foodie, and entrepreneur somewhat describe Flip Grater. Metropol writer Neville Idour discovers she is so much more. With multiple international tours and five albums under her belt, musician, singer, and songwriter Flip Grater has a dedicated following. Add on vegan foodie, Grater Goods Café/restaurant owner, food manufacturer and wholesaler, astute business […]
