Hair-raising Hanmer

Not just a relaxing alpine resort, Hanmer Springs is its own adventurer’s paradise. Outdoor activities in the area are plentiful no matter the season. Here’s Metropol’s picks of the North Canterbury township’s adrenaline fixes for the summer seasons.     WHEELY FUN Explore secluded mountain valleys on four wheels with a quad bike tour, or […]

Where to go south

In a year of travel plan disruptions, shake tradition and choose a new place to explore, a place closer to home. In the South Island, options abound. Here are Metropol’s picks of where to go, when going south.     THE CATLINS Tucked down the southeast corner of the South Island, The Catlins region is […]

Holistic, healthy Hanmer

Simply escaping from the craziness of the city is holistically beneficial for us, so Hanmer must be a wellness bundle with bells on! Even driving through serene Waipara valley, on route to the heavenly haven, renews and relaxes all the senses.   We can’t take a pilgrimage to famed spa sanctuaries of the world just […]

Estate of mind: Amuri Estate

Canterbury is an amazing place, in that all it takes is a short drive in any direction and you end up in some of the most beautiful places. Amuri Estate in Hanmer Springs is one of those places.   The beautiful retreat is just under two hours away from the Christchurch city centre but at […]

Bright & vibrant in Rangiora: The Station

A curated selection of giftware, clothing and jewellery bring a fresh offering to Rangiora at The Station Café and Shop.   The former train station turned café and beautiful gift store is under the new ownership of Steve and Vivienne King who have lived in and loved the North Canterbury area for two years now. […]

Crafters’ paradise: Mickey Raes

If you’ve been thinking on how to support local while getting out of the city for some well-deserved R and R, there are plenty of reasons to head to Hanmer Springs. The jewel in North Canterbury’s crown, Hanmer has long been the destination for adventure junkies and those craving an escape, but it seems it’s […]

Hidden hikes of Hanmer

You know about the hot pools, you know about the adrenaline activities and you know about the quaint village – but did you know about the plethora of hikes and tramps awaiting at Hanmer Springs?     PARK PARADISE Hanmer Forest Park is a walker’s paradise. The indigenous forest and a small portion of exotic […]

Northern gems

Hurunui, north of Christchurch, is an oasis for explorers. From beaches to native and exotic bush, to historic villages and enticing wineries. Whether relaxation to you is an indulgent getaway packed with spas and gastronomical delights, or something more adrenaline-pumping and off the grid, here are Metropol’s picks for things to do whatever your activity […]

Mountains of modernity: Hanmer Springs Scenic Views Motel

Tucked into the Hanmer Springs village, Hanmer Springs Scenic Views Motel is a tranquil place to relax, unwind and enjoy an alpine escape in modern self-contained accommodation.     Just 400m from the famed hot pools complex, the motel is also a stone’s throw from the quaint village’s collection of cafes, restaurants, bars and shopping. […]

Ohoka oasis: Oakhampton Lodge

Take a walk on the wild side, or more specifically, the four acres of spacious lawns and gardens in the Ohoka countryside at Oakhampton Lodge.   After welcoming hundreds of international guests to their unique boutique accommodation for several years, with the interruption to world travel owners Jackie and Angus Watson are seeing an increase […]