Metropol Inspire: Unlock healthier ageing
Life expectancy is slowly increasing, and scientific discoveries are allowing those all around to us to lead lives almost double the length of those before them. It is a great feat, yet an equally terrifying thought. Will that life be filled with doctor’s appointments, loss of loved ones, mental deterioration, and a body […]
Top Father’s Day reading: Piccadilly Books
With Father’s Day on Sunday 1 September this year, now is a great time to check out some of the great choices at Piccadilly Books. Here are some of my latest favourites. Invasion by Frank Gardner, reviewed by Neville Our price $38.00 The Chinese People’s Republic has repeatedly made its intentions clear in […]
Your new clothing crush: Estilo Boutique
In constant evolution, the fashion landscape embraces new and recurring trends daily. The team at Estilo Boutique goes one step further than just keeping up with all the latest styles and exclusive collections. Owner Suzanne Raines says the store is filled with awe-inspiring pieces and garments for a fantastic shopping experience. Find a […]
Well, shiver me timbers: Loburn Sawmill
From years of watching architect George Clarke’s TV programme Amazing Spaces we have seen how versatile and beautiful small built spaces can be. They can be used for accommodation, as workshops, hobby rooms, art studios, offices, or playrooms. The uses can be as varied as their owners’ imaginations or requirements. Loburn Sawmill recognised […]
Low & slow Prime Rib
Prime rib cuts are one popular low and slow meat dish, especially if you have an “egg” barbecue. Key to succulent, flavoursome meats is the type of barbecue, smoker, or oven being used, the coals, sauces, marinades, rubs, herbs and spices, length of cooking, and temperatures. This recipe comes courtesy of BBQs & […]
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 […]
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. […]
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 […]
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 […]











