Obedience training: is it worth it?

Yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks.   It is smarter, and probably less time-consuming with a puppy, however, there is no reason why you shouldn’t engage in obedience training for a dog of any age. Obedience training is the process of teaching your dog how to respond to certain commands and setting […]

Editor’s Note: The joys of travel

I’m back after a relaxing three weeks in the land of smiles (Thailand), and dealing with the trials and tribulations of international travel. ‘Many of us fly north for a spell during the colder months, and often find that international travel can be a testing time. Border and customs control vary from country to country, […]

Hot spots for school holidays

School holidays don’t have to mean sitting around with angsty, bored youngsters. There’s plenty to do and something for everyone right here in Christchurch, or take a trip north, south, east or west, for a day, a weekend, or longer. Get outdoors Take the kids on a hike or bike ride to burn off some […]

The predator in a sea sharks

Luke Graham, son of New Zealand rugby league player Mark ‘SHARKO’ Graham, will premiere his feature documentary about his father’s story in Christchurch in late June. A look at one of this country’s most enigmatic league heroes, reknowned for his speed, size, and skill, SHARKO provides intimate insight into a man who ruled the field […]

The bee’s best: The Hive, Springbank Honey

“Tiggers don’t like honey,” says Tigger in Winnie the Pooh. Contrarily, Pooh Bear loves honey, as do many Kiwis. That’s not surprising as our native honey is some of the best in the world. A place to try the best of the best is The Hive Café at Springbank Honey in North Canterbury. “We established […]

Over the hill to Akaroa

Road trip to the inviting Akaroa, just 75km from Christchurch, treating yourself and your family to our home away from home. A stop at the iconic Little River Inn, named in the Top 50 New Zealand Gastropubs by Hospitality New Zealand, or the historic Duvauchelle Hotel, established in 1850, is a must on the way […]

North Canterbury’s retail therapy

Sometimes, you want to escape the busy city. That doesn’t mean you don’t want to go shopping. In North Canterbury, there are many ways to embrace wildlife, walking and hiking trails, and nature’s gorgeous scenery. However, you’ll also find hundreds of retail gems, and dotted-about eateries to appropriately refuel between browsing. Take your clothing wishlist […]

Celebrating an icon: Chateau on the Park

History, connection, and quality combine in this adored Christchurch hotel. Now is the time to celebrate. On Friday, 12 July, the iconic Chateau on the Park will celebrate 50 years of impeccable hospitality, and a legacy as one of Christchurch’s favourite accommodation and cuisine destinations. Designed in 1974 for the Christchurch Commonwealth Games, Chateau on […]

Where the artisans are: Encraftment Market

The aftermath of the Christchurch earthquakes wrought countless hardships to both homeowners and businesses. Community markets also suffered, with many artisans losing their regular stalls. Thanks to Bronwyn Finch and Paula Park stepping up, stallholders are able to set out their wares once again. Encraftment Market opened in 2011, and Bronwyn still heads the team. […]

Editor’s Perspective: Time to introduce myself

Welcome to the wool issue. I can’t wait for you all to read these stories, as I share a little bit of my own story too. While you might know me as Metropol’s fashion writer, my job as Deputy Editor is no less exciting. Putting together my first solo issue while Lynda is taking a […]