NZ Mortgages: First Home Buyers in Christchurch, the essential tips & tricks

Buying your first home in Christchurch is an ever-increasingly popular option. Cheaper than Auckland and Wellington, with plenty of options for property from hillside homes, city townhouses to classic kiwi bungalows on larger sections, there is an option for every buyer. Here at NZ Mortgages, we’re proud to be based in Christchurch, and to help […]

Talking grand designs with Tom Webster

Tom Webster’s fascination with architecture started at a young age, and now he shares it with millions of others, fronting TVNZ’s Grand Designs New Zealand series. Metropol Editor Lynda Papesch caught up with him to see what captures his imagination. Home is where the heart is, so they say, and Tom’s heart is inextricably linked […]

This Kiwi can fly: Hamish Kerr

It’s the night before the Paris Olympics men’s high jump final. Christchurch-based Hamish Kerr is about to become an Olympic champion, bringing home New Zealand’s first ever Olympic medal in the event. Metropol Deputy Editor Nina Tucker discovers how he did it. Hamish watched Maddi Wesche win silver in shot put, before clocking up nine […]

NZ Cup Week is back: Riccarton Park and Addington Raceway

Our beautiful garden city comes alive during Cup Week. Fill the calendar and feel the excitement. Riccarton Park A Canterbury social highlight, featuring high-class racing, fashion, food, and entertainment across three magnificent days. The Grand Tour brings us Australian DJ sensation, Hot Dub Time Machine, live on Saturday 9 November, Al Basti Equiworld Dubai NZ […]

Editor’s note: Repurposing our treasured old buildings

Watching the evolving Christchurch cityscape is a joy, thanks to the ongoing repurposing of its numerous classic heritage buildings. With its English, Irish, and Scottish heritage, it is no wonder that many Christchurch homes, churches, and office buildings reflect the Victorian and Edwardian grandeur of those countries. Many gracious old architectural builds are long gone, […]

Stay sustainably: The St James

Hanmer Springs is known for its breathtaking landscapes, natural hot pools, and various activities. A delightful trip in any season—it’s just 90 minutes from Christchurch. Arrive, take in the mountain surroundings, and breathe in the fresh alpine air. The picturesque St James Hotel is centrally located and is a Qualmark 5-star Gold Level property. They’re […]