Editor’s Note: Beat the blues

Heading into mid-winter, aside from feeling the cold, some people are also suffering the blues, concerned for example, about the economy and rising costs. Through the gloom, however, there are rays of sunshine encouraging positive thinking. In Christchurch, our wider region, and even nationally, we have much to be thankful for, especially looking […]

Hear ye, hear ye: Sleeping Beauty, Riccarton Players

An enchanting experience awaits families and children this July school holidays. Riccarton Players proudly present the timeless tale of Sleeping Beauty for Kidsfest 2024. Embark on an unforgettable journey into a magical kingdom where the beautiful Princess Rose falls under a mysterious spell, casting her into a deep and enduring slumber. Only the […]

Prehistoric fever: Jurassic Adventure

Adventure and excitement won’t be in short supply at Canterbury’s own dinosaur theme park these school holidays. With a vision to continue introducing exciting new attractions for local and visiting families, co-owner Aaron Keown excitedly reveals Dinosaurs after Dark, which will run through the July school holidays. In a thrilling atmosphere, the maze […]

Expert care: Anstice Optometrists

Patient-centric care is top of mind for this local eyecare team. At Anstice Optometrists, they believe that a team that connects with patients on a personal level allows for better relationships and continuity of their eye care. Roberta McIlraith, with her wealth of knowledge and expertise, joins the team in providing locum cover. […]

Promoting healthy competition

Gaming is one of the top interests of young children. Naturally, planning a family day out that entices your children more than their favourite game can be difficult. With some friendly and motivating competition, an exciting line-up, and a delicious reward to top it off, that task may prove easier. Many local and […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 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. […]