Seasonal delights, new menu: The Elms Hotel

Spring is often a time when we look to refresh and renew – our clothes perhaps and the type of food that we eat. Gone are the comfort dishes of winter and instead seafood or lighter vegetarian fare may take centre stage. Hospitality outlets also typically update their menus at this time and […]

Ghoulish glow up

Halloween needn’t be yet another expensive occasion. Metropol’s Gadget Guru Ian Knott looks at a crafty options for spicing things up. Halloween “celebrations” still struggle to get a foot-hold in New Zealand compared with the likes of the USA. Whether your family goes all-out, or simply lights the odd candle to make some […]

Charming hand-crafted gifts: The Lyttel Kiwi Gift Shop

Handmade gifts tell a story. Masterful creations communicate value through naturally grown or up-cycled products, woven and tempered to speak to the discerning customer. A handmade gift is more meaningful and exclusive, directly supporting New Zealand artists in their specialised crafts. Lyttelton is home to The Lyttel Kiwi Gift Shop, nestled in a […]

A real grass act: Al-Mows

A well-mown lawn with classic British stripes is indeed a thing of beauty. A chieving that result for his clients all over North Canterbury gives Alan Davies immense satisfaction. “Mowing is what I do,” says Alan. “That’s why I called my business Al-Mows – obvious really.” Alan delights in driving his ride-on mowers […]

Kiwis do fly

Taking off to destinations near and far have been on many Kiwi’s lists this year, with flight bookings up 53% in 2023, compared with the same period in 2022. Kiwi interest in international and trans-Tasman travel has jumped this year, now collectively accounting for 39% of all bookings compared with 31% in 2022, […]