Adoring restoring: Holliday and Sons

In a world where new and mass produced is just a few mouse clicks away, furniture that has faithfully marked the passing of centuries is filled with character, history and soul. Just as friends who walk beside us through life’s phases become ever more precious, so our longstanding tables, chairs, and cabinets earn […]

From the expert: Great gardens are built in winter. Green Giant: Nathan Neath

Wondering how to make the most of your garden? Expert gardener Nathan Neath shares his winter tips. Most people think spring is the time to improve their garden. By then, many opportunities have been missed. Winter is when experienced gardeners take stock. Without the distraction of vigorous growth, it’s easier to see a […]

Winning wineries

In a historic moment for North Canterbury, Bell Hill Vineyard in Weka Pass has been named Winery of the Year 2026 by The Real Review, writes Metropol’s Lucy Brewer. The Real Review, one of Australasia’s most trusted authorities on wine, has announced its 2026 ranking of the Top Wineries of New Zealand. After […]

Blush is back

All the hottest cheeks are wearing blush this winter – the big beauty trend of the season and must-have make-up. Metropol’s Lucy Brewer reports. Blush is back, baby. Thanks in part to Justin Bieber’s other half Hailey, and her viral pocket-sized blush sticks, warm cheeks are brightening up winter faces. Since Hailey’s Rhode, […]

Comfort, care and community: Rosebank Village

A peaceful and supportive environment where you and your loved ones can feel safe, secure, and genuinely cared for? Priceless. For many people, retirement is about having freedom to spend more time doing the things they enjoy, without the ongoing responsibilities that come with maintaining a larger home. At Rosebank Village in Ashburton, […]

Going above and beyond: Beyond Radiology

As more Cantabrians seek high-quality, affordable medical imaging, one local provider stands out for its commitment to service, accessibility, and patient care. “Trust in healthcare is built through expertise, consistency, and a genuine commitment to people. At Beyond Radiology, that commitment has seen increasing numbers of patients travel from throughout Canterbury to the […]

Moving for men’s mental health

June in Aotearoa is the month of both Men’s Health Week and Men’s Mental Health Month. It’s a timely reminder of the challenges we continue to face in New Zealand. Recent figures show that one in seven adults experiences high or very high psychological distress. For men, the challenge is particularly concerning. Around […]

Will you lend a paw? PAWGUST

This ‘Pawgust’, hit the pavement and help raise money for the next generation of life-changing guide dogs for Kiwis with sight loss. Sally was born prematurely with retinopathy and total blindness in one eye. Later in life, she had multiple retina detachments, developed cataracts, glaucoma and macular atrophy, leaving her with about 10 […]

Mānawatia a Matariki

Matariki is the Māori name for the cluster of stars that rises in midwinter, also known as Pleiades. For many Māori, it heralds the start of the new year. In 2026, the Matariki period runs from 8 to 14 July, with the official national public holiday falling on Friday 10 July. This year’s […]

Where imagination takes flight: Minnies Preschool and Nursery

Somewhere in the heart of Merivale, brush strokes tell stories, playgrounds become castles, and Canterbury kids are given every opportunity to imagine. Play is the best way for young children to learn,” says Cathy Smits, centre manager at Minnies Preschool and Nursery, where imagination runs wild. “We know children are naturally curious, so […]