Bird spotting in Hanmer

Birdwatchers, or “twitchers” as they’re also known, are everywhere and luckily, close to Christchurch, the Hanmer region is home to some of our most colourful feathered friends. If you’re a twitcher, pack your binoculars, and your camera, and check out some of these species. Wander through the bush and you’ll hear it ringing with birdsong. […]

Elmer’s Ōtautahi Elephant Trail

Christchurch is now awash with colour, thanks to the Elmer’s Ōtautahi Elephant Trail. Running now till 18 February, 2024, this free, family-friendly art trail features 30 unique elephant sculptures, with many telling a story of resilience and hope. The Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust is thrilled to bring author David McKee’s beloved Elmer the Patchwork […]

Efficient real estate: Vic Raha

Is Christchurch a sound property investment compared with Auckland and Wellington? The quick answer is a resounding yes,” says Vic Raha, of Harcourts Real Estate. Why? It’s undervalued and comparatively affordable, he explains. Christchurch is an ever-changing hotspot; the city’s development provides numerous new attractions, and job opportunities, for its burgeoning population. With the average […]

Get on your bike

Christchurch’s flat terrain makes cycling a great exercise option, especially when it comes to adding low impact cardio into your daily routine. Regular exercise, such as biking, helps prevent and manage a variety of medical conditions, and is also an environmentally friendly option. Hopping on a bike is low-impact, high-gain exercise. Biking is synonymous with […]

Water wardrobe: Lifestyles Hanmer Springs

Summer’s coming. With it, the increase in heat and scorching ultraviolet rays. Temperatures are rising, year after year and it’s now more than ever that we need to keep our summer cover ups and sunburn-deterring accessories stocked, while feeling confident in our swimwear. Luckily, Lifestyles Hanmer Springs has, from head to toe, a gorgeous range […]

Celebrating a legacy

The 1974 Christchurch Commonwealth Games put our city on the world stage, and early next year we celebrate its 50th anniversary. The “Friendly Games” games was an event that, even after five decades, is still fondly remembered by many.The smallest city, to this day, to host the games, made big waves charming the rest of […]

Editors note: Festive fun for all

‘Tis the season for all manner of occasions, get-togethers, and frivolity. ‘Tis also the season for over-indulgence, high spirits, and gifting so you’d better watch out, better not cry, better not pout, I’m telling you why, Santa Claus is coming to town. Throughout the Christian world, adults and children alike are counting down the days […]

Here for the holidays

Christchurch is gearing up for another incredible summer. Between our local entertainment vendors and the natural offerings available, the city is sure to ignite excitement in all ages, with so many creative options to fill family calendars. Stuck for ideas? Check out our school holiday favourites: Walk off their energy Take the children to test […]

Head to Hanmer: Hanmer Springs Attractions

Get ready for action-packed fun at Hanmer Springs Attractions. There’s a great range of exciting and family-friendly activities to suit a range of ages, including jet boating, river rafting, off-road buggy adventures, bungy jumping and paintball, as well as quad biking for those 16 years and over. Hanmer Springs Attractions are the only jet boat […]

The joy of Christmas

People celebrate Christmas in different ways, yet for most it is a “favourite” time. Here’s how some of Metropol’s 2023 interviewees will be spending the festive season: Jason Gunn: “The week leading up to Christmas is my favourite time of the year. Our kids come home. And when our family is together… all seems right […]