Editor’s note: Creative innovation

Ironically, my first issue as acting-editor was last year’s wool issue – one I savoured as an introduction to the famous fibre and the people putting it on its rightful pedestal.

This year, it’s been a delight to see the progress made in such a short time, on a local and national level. Wins – like the government backing wool and strong wool jersey brand Davaar taking on the international market – are wonderful, yet the industry still needs our support. I catch up with Davaar’s Kate Macdonald, who is a fierce ambassador of wool’s strength, and a wonderful example of a female entrepreneur. In this issue, find the inspiration that makes choosing wool often, easy.

I’m thrilled too to introduce an all-inclusive arts section, Creative Canterbury, which spotlights the marvel that is our creative industry. I’ve lived in Canterbury my entire life, so I have always known its great resilience. It is the people, however, who have shaped it into a place of resilience – communities who haven’t let Canterbury falter in times of uncertainty. Canterbury’s creatives reflect this fortitude, a community that possesses a spirited unwillingness to be defeated.

I’m lucky enough through my line of work to be welcomed at countless creative events across the city and connect with those bringing them to life. I always walk away with admiration for our artistic community – and a desire to do my bit.

So, bask in the new and the beloved spaces, lap up behind-the-scenes details including a look inside the long-awaited Court Theatre, and enjoy a quarterly column from the guy who calls Dolly Parton his boss, Steve Guest. Support our thriving arts industry and creative communities so they can continue to do just that – thrive.

Mother’s Day is around the corner, offering an opportunity to shower our mothers and maternal figures with the same warmth they give to us – find gift and activity ideas inside.

A considered curation of all the best things that make up our region, this issue is one you are sure to love.

Nina Tucker, Metropol Editor