Granny flat
Christchurch is gearing up for a granny flat boom as consent rules change. Following landmark changes to national planning and building regulations that came into effect last month, property owners can now build new standalone homes of up to 70 square metres dwellings – commonly known as granny flats – without needing formal […]
Mental health a priority: Vanessa Weenink, MP for Banks Peninsula
Improved services for mental distress calls are on the way, says Vanessa Weenink, MP for Banks Peninsula. Four new mental health co-response teams will soon be established to work alongside the police in responding to 111 mental health-related distress calls. This follows the Government’s $28 million investment in Budget 2025 to roll out […]
New property valuations
Christchurch’s new property valuations are set to be revealed by the end of this month. Every three years, rates revaluations are carried out across Christchurch and Banks Peninsula to make sure rates are shared out fairly. Christchurch City Council staff have briefed the Mayor and councillors on the latest revaluation of properties, which […]
Lay the foundation: Affordable Concrete
A beautiful patio or welcoming driveway has the power to transform how a fresh home feels – or make it feel brand new. It’s the final touch tying architecture and external landscaping together. In Canterbury, the team at Affordable Concrete & Paving know just how important these residential spaces are. With more than […]
Embracing grey: V for Hair Merivale
The power of owning your natural beauty with master stylist and renowned grey hair transition expert Vicki Ogden-O’Fee. “There comes a moment when many women realise they’re no longer colouring their hair because they love it,” says Vicki of V for Hair Merivale. “They’re doing it out of habit, frustration, or fear of […]
Ancient balance, modern calm:
From acupuncture to herbal remedies, Traditional Chinese Medicine has shaped many of today’s complementary health and wellness practices. In an era of symptom-focused solutions, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a vision of health rooted in balance, prevention, and the interconnectedness of body and mind. With origins stretching back more than two millennia, TCM […]
East meets West
As Chinese New Year celebrations get underway, we consider the influence of Chinese art and culture on modern interiors and wallpaper design. Chinoiserie has long been a bridge between East and West, and its influence continues to shape modern wallpaper design in new and imaginative ways. Originating in 17th- and 18th-century Europe, Chinoiserie […]
Plaster care: Proudfoot Plastering
Chipped plaster, weathered surfaces, or dated finishes are all signs it’s time for a refresh. First impressions count. Just as a regular haircut keeps you looking sharp, scheduling maintenance on your home’s exterior plastering makes a big difference. An annual waterblast of your exterior walls, paired with a fresh coat of paint every […]
Rainbow beef
Crispy, flavourful stir-fry with thin slices of beef coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, rainbow beef is a crowd favourite for its bold flavours and vibrant look. INGREDIENTS (serves 3) BEEF – 250g of your favourite cut of steak, thinly sliced – 120g cornflour – Vegetable oil, for deep-frying SAUCE – 160ml […]
In for the log-haul: High Country Carpentry
Who has time to celebrate 20 years in business when you’re busy completing an enormous and awe-inspiring log home? Third and fifth-generation Mackenzie region residents Heather and Lain Hellmrich ticked over 20 years for their building and renovation business High Country Carpentry last December. But the husband-and-wife duo haven’t put their feet up […]
