Coastal escape

A small coastal village with breathtaking views of towering snow-capped mountains and the vast blue Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura is a South Island destination which offers rich nature and cultural experiences.     Visit the mountains, watch whales and dolphins, and take in the beautiful sunset while indulging in fresh, locally caught seafood […]

Location, location, location: Salt n Pepper Cafe

Salt n Pepper owner, Dharambir Judge, argues that his café has the best view in Hanmer. Situated at the Boulder Point Precinct you can take in the scenic Conical Hill whilst taking in your sensationally smooth Atomic coffee.     It’s dog-friendly, which makes stopping in on your walk that bit more […]

Time for an upgrade! Red Post Cafe

In a year where best laid plans were thrown out the window and there was no choice but to embrace uncertainty, Red Post Café co-owners Trent and Carolyn took a bold step.     The pair have run the Culverden café since July 2008, and while most of us were negotiating what […]

Staying active: Clear Ridge Apartments

A thrill seeker’s paradise with a touch of relaxation and a sprinkle of fine dining sums up Canterbury’s resort town, Hanmer Springs. But recently, it has been the much-anticipated events that have had visitors flocking from far and wide.     Hanmer Motorfest, Honour Festival, 4&8 Hour MTB Challenge, The Bandquet, Half […]

Music to our ears

Loved local music, food and drink have become a tried-and-true formula for success in Hanmer, and The Bandquet on 27 March shows no sign of diverting from that equation.     The line-up is a degustation of Kiwi favourites; The Feelers, Jason Kerrison, Kaylee Bell, Sweet Mix Kids, City Limits and the […]

Summer in North Canterbury

In a summer where every trip out of the house feels like a special treat, make the most of our freedoms with a trip to North Canterbury. The scenic region is undoubtedly at its best in high summer, and just a short drive away from central Christchurch, how could you not stop […]

In the market: Ray White

It’s a hot market right now – housing market that is. Experienced real estate consultant Marijke Sheppard of Ray White in Rangiora is an astute observer of trends in real estate and shares her advice for potential sellers.     “A key reason behind the current activity is supply and demand. There […]

Hugo’s Hanmer holiday: Tait Gallery

Tait Gallery at Hanmer Springs has a beautiful selection of ceramics, pottery, glassware, wood turning and jewellery, as well as a large display of pictures by artists both emerging and established.     The portfolio includes landscapes by Tony Roche, Ross Lee, Debbie Lambert, Karen Werner, Charles Pickworth, Jane Riley and Jane […]

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 […]

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 […]