Featured Articles

The Tai Tapu Hotel

Historically Unique: The Tai Tapu Hotel’s rich heritage

The Tai Tapu Hotel, or ‘The Tap’ as it is better known, has been at the forefront of social activity within Tai Tapu ever since inception way back in 1856. Strongly rooted in the history of Canterbury, The Tap has been the definitive place for eats, drinks and functions. Talking of functions, the […]

The Cranford Alehouse

A Top Spot: The Cranford Ale House

If you’re heading north down Cranford Street, there’s a great place to stop in for some great food, spend time with friends, and enjoy a beverage or two at 305 Cranford Street. The Cranford Ale House ticks all those boxes and more. Frequented by locals who take full advantage of the spacious garden […]

Beach Cafe

Service with a smile: heading out to the Beach Cafe

Beach Café, by Waimairi Beach, lets you kill a few birds with one stone, so to speak. “Take the dog for a walk, a romantic stroll with your partner and then a couple of wines – perfect,” says Manager, Frank Tamati. Frank and his brother, Mike, recently reopened the Beach Café. They grew […]

Cafe Vivo

The place to go: a visit to Cafe Vivo

There’s more than one good reason to visit Café Vivo in Bishopdale shopping centre. It’s not just the amazing amount of parking that gives you great access to the el fresco dining area. It’s also not just because it’s on the way to the airport, just off Harewood Road, making it your meeting […]

Power Up: VP Batteries

Don’t let a flat battery slow you down. Nothing derails your day, or holiday road trip, faster than discovering a flat battery. Whether it’s in your car, motorhome, motorcycle, tractor or boat, finding a replacement is frustrating enough, but fitting it and disposing of the old one adds another layer of hassle. That’s […]

Weighing up options

You’ve probably heard the gut hormone GLP-1 control the trending Ozempic conversation – but what really is it, and why is everyone talking about it? GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone which helps to stabilise blood sugar levels, support healthy appetite by sending signals of fullness to your brain, and slows digestion so […]

Beautiful and breathable: Only from Italy

Don’t miss the chance to secure these timeless, nature-inspired designs before they’re gone. Our final shipment for 2025 has just arrived,” says Simone, manager of Christchurch boutique OFI. “Our most-loved exclusive English Botanical Floral cotton poplin range, and our most popular Giovanni shirt is back in gorgeous summer hues including tangerine, fuchsia, and […]

Your guide to what’s on in the West Coast

26 & 28 DECEMBER: WESTPORT TROTTING CLUB CHRISTMAS MEETING Gather all your family and friends to watch some horse racing. With ten different trotting and pace races each day, there will be plenty of high-speed equines to admire. 30 DECEMBER: REEFTON TROTS Get ready for Reefton’s largest annual race event. Pack a picnic […]

5 great foods for gut health

From the moment we’re born, our gut microbiome’s role in the body begins. There’s still much to learn about the trillions of micro-organisms – bacteria, viruses and fungi – that exist in our gastrointestinal tract, but the science has already revealed some fascinating associations between them and the healthy functioning of just about […]

A rebranded favourite: The Little Taphouse

This local favourite has rebranded into a homely haven to be enjoyed by all. Previously Sprig & Fern Merivale, The Little Taphouse’s refurbishment refurbishment has created a space for growth, while still providing the same great service locals love. “We are now stocking 18 taps of Emerson’s beer,” says bar and restaurant owner, […]