Top of the South Winter Escape

In New Zealand’s sunshine capital, seasons are distinguishable by the landscapes, with fallen autumn leaves adorning the footpaths or a fresh dusting of snow blanketing the mountain ranges. The ‘Top of the South’ is a region in which winter comes into its own.     Nelson Tasman is renowned for its temperate climate and, from […]

Seek Spy, find why: Spy Valley Wines

Hidden in the heart of Marlborough, New Zealand, you’ll find family owned estate Spy Valley Wines featuring award-winning, sustainably crafted wines that capture the unique time and place of every harvest.     Six varieties of grapes are grown on more than 160 hectares of pristine vineyards. It just so happens that the winery and […]

Winter’s Hottest Ashburton Events

As winter begins to make its chilly presence felt, there’s still plenty of fun activities to keep the whole family busy, active and entertained in Ashburton over the next few months. Here’s our list of top events coming up to get you through those colder days and nights.     1. Room on the Broom […]

A burger bonanza: Boulder Burgers

At 8 Crisholm Crescent in the new Boulder Point Precinct at the wonderful Hanmer Springs is a 1950s American style diner, designing burgers with both American and Kiwi interpretations.     Why not try the ‘New Zealamb’; battered roast lamb, tomato jam and onion rings in a customised burger bun (fresh from Hanmer Bakery daily) […]

Luxe Hanmer Getaway: Village Lake Apartments

Situated next to the lake behind the Heritage Hotel is the idyllic Village Lake Apartments. The 13 two-three bedroom apartments are incredibly spacious and provide all the convenience of being at home, with the luxury of a five-star premium, luxury hotel and just a short stroll from all the major amenities in Hanmer Springs. Each […]

Taste of Hanmer Luxury: Clear Ridge

Accommodation in Hanmer doesn’t come any better than the five-star Clear Ridge apartments. This is a wonderful time of year to come and enjoy the tranquility of Hanmer and the surrounding district.     Chill out in the spacious large apartments and enjoy the serenity of the mountain views with family or friends. These fully […]

Where travel dreams lie: House of Travel Ferrymead

Anticipating a longed-for adventure should be a significant part of the joy of travel. So committed to this concept are Mel Hubber (nee Lowen) and Kim Beswick, co-owners and consultants of House of Travel Ferrymead, that they have redesigned the store around their clients’ comfort and relaxation.     “We have come up with a […]

Distinctive slumbers

If the regional rebuild has demonstrated anything, it’s the innovation and determination of its habitants, as out of the box concepts, creations and contraptions come to life.     It’s certainly evident in the range of unique accommodations in greater Canterbury. From luxury tree houses to glass pods and grain silos, this is what sweet […]

To Market To Market

North Canterbury has plenty of markets and fetes to keep the weekends – and pantries – full. Check out our itinerary.     Rangiora Church Street Market Saturday 1 June 8am-1pm St John’s Anglican Church, 355 High Street, Rangiora The market is open on the first Saturday of each month. Café, indoor craft, garage, white […]

Winter Escape

Winter is the time of year to trigger the innate flight or fight response in us; flee for the tropics or tough it out in our little corner of the South Pacific. And, although the islands in the sun may offer the seductive swaying of palm trees and umbrella-clad cocktails, there are plenty of local […]