Small, but very crafty

The Cricut Joy 2 is a machine that becomes more valuable the longer you use it. At first glance, it appears to be a smaller version of a larger machine. However, in practice, it often becomes the one you reach for the most. Metropol’s Gadget Guy Ian Knott gets all kinds of crafty. […]

Mop it like it’s hot

Robot vacuums all claim to do everything these days. They vacuum, mop, avoid obstacles, empty themselves, and even dry themselves. Some might even make you coffee if you wait long enough. The ECOVACS DEEBOT T80S OMNI doesn’t introduce anything groundbreaking, but it does improve on a few important features, especially in mopping. Metropol’s […]

Winter reimagined: Mikko Shoes

Make everyday a little bit extraordinary with the latest luxury autumn/winter collection to land in Christchurch. Mikko Shoes’ new season range is rooted in confidence, depth and enduring style, where heritage hues meet modern attitude. “Rich colour, tactile finishes and purposeful silhouettes balance comfort, functionality and quiet sophistication for the cooler months,” says […]

The chamber calls

String music brilliance returns to Rangiora with a powerful programme celebrating storytelling through sound. This year, the New Zealand String Quartet returns to Rangiora for the first time since 2008 with their 2026 season tour: Storytellers. On Thursday 7 May and during NZ Music Month, the concert will showcase a vibrant programme titled […]

Ladies who Porsche

Internationally renowned contemporary artist Jonny Niesche, whose talent has seen him collaborate with Gucci, graced the grand Archibalds Porsche showroom for their 2026 Ladies Night. Imagine a night of fine art, award-winning wines and bespoke canapés from Black Estate, and tastings from Mods Hair owner Julianne Liebeck’s Gin Drinkers Line. Ladies Night is […]

What’s hot in hair: Haar Design

Christchurch stylist Caro Haar shares the latest hair trends, from an intentional shift to a 70s and 90s-inspired renaissance. “We’re moving towards sleek, soft textures and away from overly messy styles – hair is becoming much more intentional in 2026,” says Caro, owner of Haar Design in St Albans. Caro notes a shift […]

Rings with aroha: BLJewellery

A distinctly Kiwi take on the contemporary wedding ring. Brett Liddle, jeweller and founder of BLJewellery, created the Aroha range of wedding bands from his love of nature. “I love incorporating natural elements into jewellery, allowing the wearer to take a small piece of our country with them wherever they go. My designs […]

Mini lemon thyme polenta cakes

From the baking book called You Had Me At Cake by Emelia Jackson, these little cakes are a riff on the classic pound cake – a pound of this, a pound of that – which is why you’ll find very rounded amounts in the ingredients list. Emelia says she used lemon thyme to […]

How to find your dream dress: Brides of Merivale

Owner of South Island’s leading bridal boutique Brides of Merivale, Lisa Dermott answers your burning questions to guide your dress shopping experience. When should I start looking for my dress? Start the search for your gown at least 10 to 12 months prior to your wedding – some brides begin up to 18 […]