Born to be Bard: Enchanting Productions

Experience the lively and witty world of Shakespeare like never before with the upcoming production of Sweet William at The Piano from 16 to 18 October, writes Wendy Oh. Traverse history and follow the life of William Shakespeare while being dazzled by the talent on stage in Sweet William or Born to be […]

What would you do with more time? By Holmwood Property Management

Investment specialist and business owner Megan Looyer asks how you would spend what great property management gives you: time. A familiar face in Canterbury property has found a new home at Holmwood Property Management. Megan Looyer, now backed by one of the region’s most trusted and awarded property management teams, brings a fresh […]

Review: Suzanne Vega’s Flying With Angels Tour 2026

For Metropol’s Murray Dempsey, singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega is a firm favourite. He reviews her Flying with Angels Tour at the James Hay Theatre on 9 September 2026. Suzanne Vega has been a firm favourite of mine since Solitude Standing landed in 1987. There was something different about her even then. She didn’t just sing […]

Love stories made in Canterbury

Akaroa paradise: Mt Vernon Lodge

Vows spoken amongst birdsong, nuptials set above a world-famous harbour below… this lush Akaroa lodge is a wedding party’s private paradise. Described as an “oasis of calm in an increasingly hurried world,” Mt Vernon Lodge sits atop Akaroa’s serene landscapes to soothe those stressed pre-wedding nerves. “This is your balcony seat for one […]

Flowers you’ll fall for: Victoria Florists

Combining the latest in floral artistry and design with a 90-year heritage, wedding bouquets and event decorations run in the DNA of this Fendalton-based florist. “From outrageous and gorgeous to elegant and intimate, we have made all dreams come true,”says Leanne Lovell of the cherished moments Victoria Florists has been involved in. Couples […]

Bringing love stories to life: Celebrant Justine Johansson

“Officiating wedding ceremonies truly feels like the world’s best job,” says lover-of-love Justine Johansson. The Canterbury-based celebrant shares her story and two top tips for couples preparing to say ‘I do’. “Celebrating one of life’s happiest moments,” celebrant Justine Johansson found her calling after officiating her cousin’s wedding. “It made me appreciate the […]

Discover a historic wedding venue: Staveley Co-op 1916

For a wedding venue that offers old-world charm, spectacular views of the Southern Alps, and the freedom to create a celebration that’s uniquely yours, this Staveley gem is well worth a visit. Whether you’re planning a grand wedding or an intimate gathering, the beautifully restored Staveley Co-op 1916 set in the foothills of […]

Spring event style: Haar Design

Spring weddings, a fashion festival, and Cup Week to come… trust one of Canterbury’s favourite salons to bring your hair looks to life. “It’s that time of year,” hair stylist Caro Haar says, alluding to the sartorial suspense that builds ahead of all the special events on the spring calendar. “It’s crucial to […]

Treasure, tailored: Westende Jewellers

Find three generations’ worth of love for fine jewellery bundled into one local Colombo St store. For the bride and groom who are searching for that dream engagement ring or wedding band, Westende Jewellers boasts the largest range of new and vintage wedding rings in the South Island. Try on a range of […]