A luxurious lodge: French Farm Winery is the boutique wedding venue you must see
French Farm Winery is unique. A boutique luxury lodge in French provincial style with commanding views of Akaroa harbour, exceptional accommodation and meandering streams and birdlife. There is a special tranquillity to it. Located at French Farm, not far from Akaroa, there are four luxury ensuite studios with kitchenettes, a courtyard area and […]
For every season : weather and weddings when to tie the knot
Whether you want a winter wonderland or a spring soiree, every season can play to its strengths; it just comes down to which of the weather gods you want to work their magic on your big day. While we don’t like to deal in cliches, we are keen advocates of what each season […]
Pet nutrition focus: Ourvets gives us the run down on looking after your pet’s diet
A huge variety of dietary options are available for our four-legged friends. Some great, some not so great – but how does a caring owner really know what is right for their pet? The topic of diet is one discussed often for humans but can be forgotten when it comes to our beloved […]
A delicious culinary crusade: we chat to Amar from Corianders about being a Bollywood actor and the road that took him to having an empire of successful Indian restaurants
“My dream was to be a famous Bollywood actor – yet somehow I have ended up in hospitality!” chuckles Amar Singh, owner of the Corianders restaurant group. Amar was indeed a Bollywood actor in India for a time, as well as a model and theatre actor. But with downtimes in the entertainment industry […]
Women inspiring women: The All Girl Big Band
The All Girl Big Band (AGBB) drew a crowd of more than 4,000 when they performed at Ingham’s Lazy Sundays event in February. “They were dancing on the grass,” says AGBB Musical Director and alto saxophonist Lana Law. “What a buzz!” With an eye to maximising their exposure, the band – described as […]
Wedding dress perfection: Why you need to go see Brides of Merivale before you commit (to a dress)
It’s the beautiful, comfortable environment that makes Brides of Merivale so welcoming. Adding to that, an exclusive range of beautiful wedding gowns and professional, friendly staff, makes this one of the most popular destinations for discerning brides-to-be. Part of the excellent service Brides of Merivale offers is the couturiere that greets each bride […]
An edible initiative: growing green thumbs at The Curator’s House
The greenfingers amongst us have long recognised the benefits of creating food sources in our very own backyards and, with a growing recognition of the health and happiness benefits inherent in growing your own goodies, garden to plate initiatives have been increasing in popularity. “We’ll discuss the importance of green cropping, and cover […]
Have your cake and eat it too: a non-traditional approach to wedding cakes
Once upon a time, wedding cakes were a one size fits all affair – that is to say, dried fruit and white fondant were the order of the day. That was – of course – pre-Instagram. As our cake creations have become increasingly elaborate, they are taking a bigger bite out of the […]
Bridal gown style guide: how to choose “The Dress” for your dream wedding
The sentiment and commitment of any wedding day are, of course, the most important statements, but let’s be honest, the piece de resistance – the moment that leaves guests waiting with bated breath – is the entrance of the bride in her chosen attire, most traditionally, a gown. If you are planning your […]
Win with Metropol: I feel pretty with Amy Schumer
Starring Amy Schumer, I Feel Pretty centres on Renee, who struggles with feelings of insecurity and inadequacy on a daily basis. Then one day, she wakes from a fall believing she is suddenly the most beautiful and capable woman on the planet. With this newfound confidence, Renee is empowered to live her life […]
