Truffle snuffle. The Waipara labradors hunting for a prized global delicacy

When winter moves in, the truffle dogs of North Canterbury get to work. Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen talks to truffle dog handler Jax Lee-May about the benefits of using dogs over pigs for truffle hunting (hint: finger count) and what she learnt from police drug dogs. On a frosty winter morning in […]

Tiny hands, big talk

Before babies can talk, they have plenty to say. A smile, a point, a wave – these early gestures are the building blocks of communication. Baby signing helps families build on those natural skills through music, movement and simple signs. Baby signing isn’t about replacing speech or teaching formal sign language. Instead, it […]

The Future is Vintage! Metropol’s Postmodern Jukebox review

Metropol’s Nancye Pitt was transported back to a New York jazz club as she sat in the audience of Postmodern Jukebox’s ‘The Future is Vintage 2026 Tour’ at the Isaac Theatre Royal. Here’s her review. Last year I enjoyed a jazz club in New York, and the atmosphere last night felt just as […]

Canterbury’s Michelin men

A Michelin star each for two iconic restaurants, and a special Young Chef award… meet Canterbury’s Michelin men. Adam Harrison, head chef and forager Tussock Hill Vineyard and Cellar Door Restaurant – Awarded Michelin Star, 210 Huntsbury Avenue, Cashmere One of only two Christchurch restaurants to ever receive a star from the Michelin […]

Christchurch’s Michelin Guide

From Inati and Tussock Hill’s Michelin star distinction, to the 14 other restaurants recognised for their impeccable value for money, Christchurch’s hospitality scene has taken another step onto the global culinary stage. So who made the cut and why? Here’s what the Michelin inspectors had to say. Awarded one Michelin star Inati, 48 […]

Inside Andy Ellis’ custom home where clean design meets character

Polished features and refined textures injected with elements of Andy’s playful energy… Andy and Emma Ellis’ latest home is an illustration of Canterbury-made excellence. Andy Ellis has built a reputation that doesn’t rely on noise or novelty. The face of TVNZ’s Moving Houses and a regarded figure in New Zealand rugby, Andy’s name […]