Chocolate truffle martini

Is it dessert? Is it a cocktail? We’re pretty sure mum won’t quibble with the semantics when you present her with this delicious, chocolatey treat. Ingredients: 60ml vodka (vanilla or chocolate vodka) 30ml chocolate liqueur 30ml Irish cream liqueur 30ml cream Ice cubes, 2 or 3 Method: In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, […]

Flavours without borders: El Faro

More than just a café, this Ferrymead haven combines Mediterranean and South American flavours in a space created for the community. Lighthouses are symbols of safe harbours, of a welcome to secure anchorage. In Spanish, a lighthouse is called ‘el faro’, a phrase that could not be more appropriate for this eatery by […]

Q&A Move it Mama

Fitness by mothers, for mothers, Christchurch entrepreneur and mum of four boys Lisa Fong turned a passion for exercise into a multi-million dollar business. Then her husband Dan was given two weeks to live. She tells her story to Metropol editor Nina Tucker. Lisa turned the weekly 20-minute workouts used to reclaim her […]

A calm conference: Tai Tapu Hotel

Imagine a countryside setting for your next function or boardroom meeting. Did we mention free parking and a private bar? The standalone function room at Tai Tapu Hotel is a welcoming, light-filled space that comfortably seats up to 80 guests, with flexible set-up options to suit your event. It’s available Monday to Sunday […]

For the love of cars: 20 years of Christchurch European

From family passion to national player: Christchurch European celebrates 20 years of offering the best range of luxury vehicles in the city. For more than 20 years, Christchurch European has been turning a love of cars into one of the country’s most respected independent dealerships. In the car world, twenty years is a […]

High tea & hot spots North Canterbury

Want to take mum somewhere special for Mother’s Day? This is our pick of the best North Canterbury options. The Gateway Tavern afternoon tea, Hanmer Springs A special Mother’s Day event, The Gateway Tavern is taking bookings for afternoon tea designed to celebrate mum. Enjoy lemonade scones with jam and cream, lamingtons and […]

Refurbish your kitchen: MF Turnbull Kitchen Renewal

Top 5 reasons to refurbish your kitchen instead of replacing it. Thinking your kitchen needs a full overhaul? A smart refurbishment can deliver the same ‘new kitchen’ feel, without the cost, stress, or waste of a replacement, says Jason Turnbull of specialist finishings business MF Turnbull Kitchen Renewal. “When your kitchen is looking […]

Antique additions

Struggling to find a place for that grandfather clock? Not sure which room to put your family bureau or case furniture? Antique pieces add warmth and sentimental value to a space, but in modern homes, finding the right statement piece can be a challenge. Try our furniture tips – because yes, the inspiration […]

Creamy carrot & bacon soup recipe

Perfect for those wintry days, this heart-warming soup from the new book by Sue Heazlewood, Tangleby Everyday Recipes Book Two, is a delicious lunch when served with buttered and grilled ciabatta. Head along to the book’s launch on 21 May at North Canterbury Books. Ingredients | Serves 4 150g bacon, diced 1 tbsp […]