Harmonious nonsense: Alexandra Hope

Alexandra Hope Watson is a high flyer – literally. You may have seen her beaming down at you from a University of Canterbury (UC) billboard, emboldened behind her the words “MUSIC” and “AEROBATICS”, writes Metropol’s Joseph Harper. Acurious juxtaposition, one that describes two of the young composer and concert singer’s passions. Alexandra began flying at […]

Lynley Dodd’s legacy

One of New Zealand’s favourite children’s book writers, Dame Lynley Dodd DNZM, is gifting budding children’s writers the same gift that gave her a leg up. The $30,000 Lynley Dodd Children’s Writers Award was inspired by a similar pivotal moment where a financial gift enabled Lynley to continue writing and make her name. She hopes […]

Expert service with a smile: Rentwise Property Management

Repeat clients is a sure sign of success in the rental business, particularly with the industry’s numerous unwanted twists and turns for owners and tenants alike. REINZ accredited, Shona Saunders has been working in the rental field for more than 10 years, through her company Rent Wise Property Management. “We [Shona and husband Michael Brookland] […]

Smokin’ hot

Covid lockdowns kick-started a wave of cooking creativity, both in the kitchen, and using barbecues, to spice up eating at home. One of the most popular has been the low and slow movement, aligned with barbecues and smokers. Barbecues are no longer just for steaks and sausages, and slow cooking is not just about brisket. […]

Give your kitchen a makeover: MF Turnbull

A new finish or colour change may be exactly what your kitchen needs to give it a fresh look, and your home a new feel. Experts at doing just that are Monique and Murray Turnbull, who are celebrating 35 years injecting new life into furniture, fittings, and homes. Initially servicing the furniture and joinery industries […]

3 ways to refresh your home for spring

Set aside a spare afternoon to reset your home or room this season. Declutter Spring is fresh and carefree, and the idea of living a life like that is just as appealing. Start by decluttering your home spaces. Give yourself a short timeframe and walk around your house, thinking about items you no longer need […]