New faces and friends: Mayor Phil Mauger

Giving a big welcome to the new cohort of international students choosing Christchurch. One of the best parts of my job as Mayor is getting the chance to welcome newcomers to this fantastic city of ours. Christchurch is resilient, diverse and has a strong sense of community so it’s vital that when people […]

Art and our city

Local Christchurch scenes painted by talented Kiwi artists not only make a stunning wall feature but are a beautiful reminder of the incredible city we live in. The Christchurch map was one of the most difficult and detailed to create for the couple behind art print business Drawing the Way, Marcella Diaz and […]

Portrait artist Caroline Kelly

Inside the creative hum of The Arts Centre, Caroline Kelly paints from her upstairs atelier. Ahead of her gallery’s grand opening, she sits down with Metropol. “It’s a dream come true to open a gallery in such an idyllic place,” says portrait artist Caroline Kelly, standing in a space awash with light, which […]

Meet your matcha

A centuries-old tradition rooted in mindfulness, art and ceremony has become a modern ritual. The popular green drink is a multi-billion dollar phenomenon; matcha is now a must on a café menu. But matcha lovers, have you thought about making it at home? Matcha has been at the heart of traditional Japanese tea […]

A peaceful Akaroa getaway: Mt Vernon

Discover the ultimate destination for relaxation at this mindfully curated Banks Peninsula accommodation and venue. The serene location of Mt Vernon Lodge is nestled in the hills overlooking Akaroa Harbour. It provides the perfect escape for city dwellers needing to cut loose from the stresses of Monday to Friday, to celebrate something special. […]

Red wine poached pears in puff pastry

Tracing back to medieval Europe and ancient Rome, when cooks used spiced wine poaching to soften unripened autumn cooking pears, this elegant dessert is a winner if you’re out to impress. Serves 4 Ingredients • 4 small firm pears, peeled • 750ml red wine • 1/2 cup caster sugar • 1 cinnamon stick […]