Latest Articles
Creamy carrot & bacon soup recipe
Perfect for those wintry days, this heart-warming soup from the new book by Sue Heazlewood, Tangleby Everyday Recipes Book Two, is a delicious lunch when served with buttered and grilled ciabatta. Head along to the book’s launch on 21 May at North Canterbury Books. Ingredients | Serves 4 150g bacon, diced 1 tbsp […]
You wear it well: The Wool Company
Four seasons in one day is how Cantabrians describe their weather, and dressing for those rapid shifts can be a daily challenge. For Margot Riach, owner of The Wool Company, the answer is simple: merino possum. “Once people wear it, they never look back,” she says. “By blending the fibres, we create soft, […]
Look lively: Matthews Eyecare in The Tannery
Eye care is about more than just updating your prescription; it is an important part of looking after your overall health. Regular eye exams don’t just help you see clearly, they can also pick up early signs of conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration and even diabetes, says Claire Randall of Matthews Eyecare in […]
Setting up for sofa season: Four Peaks
As winter weather sets in, snuggle up on the sofa with all-natural, locally crafted soft furnishings. If there’s one thing that winter brings, it’s the desire to retreat to the sofa on a cold, dark evening surrounded with cushions, throws and blankets. For soft, warm and long-lasting furnishings, you can’t go past New […]
Staying fit as a mum
“Motherhood is the ultimate full-body workout,” says yoga and Pilates instructor Natalie Pantos. She reflects on her fitness journey through motherhood and shares advice for mums getting back into movement. Motherhood demands a level of mental and physical fitness like no other. My children’s needs don’t pause for studio class times – they’re […]
Weight-loss drug dilemma
Exercise New Zealand is part of a world-first global call for urgent action on obesity medications. With nearly three billion adults worldwide currently overweight or living with obesity, a number that is projected to rise significantly in the coming decade, the potential of GLP-1 therapies is a significant clinical advancement, says a joint […]
Luxury never fades: Duffle&Co
A commitment to quality and sustainability has seen this premium Kiwi bag brand thrive well into its tenth year. Premium luxury bag brand, Duffle&Co is celebrating 10 years of providing customers with made-to-last quality and a firm commitment to people and planet. Managing director Bernadette Stevenson, whose brand was recognised in British Vogue […]
Buy local: Yarn with a true New Zealand story – Wild Earth Yarns
While much of New Zealand’s wool is shipped offshore for processing, one Christchurch-based company is keeping the entire journey close to home. Wild Earth Yarns, owned by Graham and Jacqui McLaughlin, is committed to producing 100% locally made, fully traceable yarn. “We’re seeing a global shift away from synthetics toward natural, biodegradable fibres,” […]
Welcome to a new era in wool
The New Zealand Merino Company has rebranded as Zentera, signalling a strategic evolution while maintaining its focus on premium, traceable wool and regenerative practices. The New Zealand Merino Company has rebranded as Zentera Wool Company, a move its leadership says reflects a natural evolution rather than a shift in direction. Chief executive Angus […]
Mum’s gift guide
Show mum you love her and shop local while you’re at it. Here’s our Mother’s Day collection – curated by us and found right here in Canterbury stores.
Why a wool mattress: Dreamwool
The exceptional comfort of merino wool. For a lot of us, a truly great night’s sleep can be elusive. You adjust your lighting and your sleep hygiene, reduce your screen time, maybe you even use a wearable device to track all your nightly stats, but you still wake up tired in the morning. […]
Review: Jimmy Barnes in Christchurch
A long-time fan, Metropol’s Nancye Pitt was there to see Jimmy Barnes perform his Working Class Man 40th Anniversary Show in Christchurch on Friday 17 April, 2026. Jimmy Barnes was in fine form at his Christchurch show at Wolfbrook Arena last night. The majority of the crowd were 30 years plus. However, there were […]
A bid for better sleep: Dreamwool
Lucky auction-goers rest easy on a winning Dreamwool bed. “It was a spur-of-the-moment decision,” says Steve Miller of his successful auction bid for a luxury Dreamwool bed at the BrainTree Trust’s annual ball in 2024. “We’d had our previous bed for at least 10 years, and we hadn’t really discussed replacing it. But […]
Shouting about timber: Bates Joinery
Winners! The VidaSpace Christchurch showroom wins the retail category at the 2025 Interior Awards, with Bates Joinery taking home the Master Joiners Award. Located at 143 Victoria Street, the VidaSpace Christchurch showroom is an ode to interior timbers from European oak to burl. Divided into three distinct zones, Entice, Excite and Educate, the […]
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Cuisine
A calm conference: Tai Tapu Hotel
Imagine a countryside setting for your next function or boardroom meeting. Did we mention free parking and a private bar? The standalone function room at Tai Tapu Hotel is a welcoming, light-filled space that comfortably seats up to 80 guests, with flexible set-up options to suit your event. It’s available Monday to Sunday […]
Creamy carrot & bacon soup recipe
Perfect for those wintry days, this heart-warming soup from the new book by Sue Heazlewood, Tangleby Everyday Recipes Book Two, is a delicious lunch when served with buttered and grilled ciabatta. Head along to the book’s launch on 21 May at North Canterbury Books. Ingredients | Serves 4 150g bacon, diced 1 tbsp […]
Auditing experts: Hill Labs
After a successful first year of operation, and as compliance requirements underpin the food sector, a Christchurch joint-venture auditing and inspection services company works to meet demand. “As New Zealand exports grow, the need for independent verification grows with them. Market access requirements are becoming more complex, and producers need reliable and responsive […]
Pickled with love: Gordons Pickles
A family-owned Canterbury business marks 20 years of crafting premium pickles, celebrating the milestone with a bold new product and a continued commitment to quality and community. Gordon’s Pickles is proud to celebrate 20 years in business, a New Zealand, family-owned business manufacturing high-quality pickles since July 2006. “The strength of the business […]
Fashion & Beauty
Luxury never fades: Duffle&Co
A commitment to quality and sustainability has seen this premium Kiwi bag brand thrive well into its tenth year. Premium luxury bag brand, Duffle&Co is celebrating 10 years of providing customers with made-to-last quality and a firm commitment to people and planet. Managing director Bernadette Stevenson, whose brand was recognised in British Vogue […]
Buy local: Yarn with a true New Zealand story – Wild Earth Yarns
While much of New Zealand’s wool is shipped offshore for processing, one Christchurch-based company is keeping the entire journey close to home. Wild Earth Yarns, owned by Graham and Jacqui McLaughlin, is committed to producing 100% locally made, fully traceable yarn. “We’re seeing a global shift away from synthetics toward natural, biodegradable fibres,” […]
Welcome to a new era in wool
The New Zealand Merino Company has rebranded as Zentera, signalling a strategic evolution while maintaining its focus on premium, traceable wool and regenerative practices. The New Zealand Merino Company has rebranded as Zentera Wool Company, a move its leadership says reflects a natural evolution rather than a shift in direction. Chief executive Angus […]
Dressing naturally: Linens & Treasures
An appreciation for elegant, sustainable fashion begins here. Complete your linen love story with a curated collection of natural fibres, jewellery, and accessories – your one-stop style destination at Barrington Mall. “Linen is the ultimate for women going through menopause and beyond – or for any age group, really. It’s simply so much […]
Health
Step back into comfort: Footprints Podiatry
Whether you spend your day at standing at work or chasing after grandchildren, life becomes much harder with sore feet. According to senior podiatrist Howard Nicholas from Footprints Podiatry, the key to healthy feet is regular maintenance. “Addressing foot problems as early as possible is the key,” Howard says. “The longer people leave […]
Your guide to nuclear medicine and treatment: Reform Radiology
If your doctor or specialist has referred you for nuclear medicine imaging or treatment, you may have questions about what this involves. These specialised imaging techniques offer accurate diagnosis, and treatment of a range of conditions, and is available from Reform Radiology’s state-of-the-art facility in central Christchurch. To provide you with peace of […]
From stuck to starting again: I Get It
Work or study no longer feels fulfilling? Relationships feel strained, or there’s a sense that something needs to change but the next step isn’t clear? That’s where life coaching can make a difference. For life coach Dianne Heslop, her website messaging is ‘I get it’ because she does. She understands what it’s like […]
Hard as nails: Dr Tom Nailcare
Autumn is the season to prep for healthy, beautiful nails that can stand up to winter. After a social summer, our nails have done more heavy lifting than we realise. From holidays and outdoor adventures to festivals and parties, they’ve been filed, painted, polished and often layered with gels or acrylics to look […]
Home & Living
Mum’s gift guide
Show mum you love her and shop local while you’re at it. Here’s our Mother’s Day collection – curated by us and found right here in Canterbury stores.
Why a wool mattress: Dreamwool
The exceptional comfort of merino wool. For a lot of us, a truly great night’s sleep can be elusive. You adjust your lighting and your sleep hygiene, reduce your screen time, maybe you even use a wearable device to track all your nightly stats, but you still wake up tired in the morning. […]
A bid for better sleep: Dreamwool
Lucky auction-goers rest easy on a winning Dreamwool bed. “It was a spur-of-the-moment decision,” says Steve Miller of his successful auction bid for a luxury Dreamwool bed at the BrainTree Trust’s annual ball in 2024. “We’d had our previous bed for at least 10 years, and we hadn’t really discussed replacing it. But […]
The repair shop: Seaton’s French Polishing & Furniture Repairs
Giving timeless pieces of furniture a second life. Whether it’s a vintage dining suite or a cherished heirloom, Seaton’s French Polishing and Furniture Repair brings tired furniture back to life. For over 30 years, owner Mike Fullen has restored everything from antique sideboards to family treasures, preserving both craftsmanship and sentimental value. In […]
One on One
Behind Andrea Biani
Andrea and Vern Bailey are the powerhouse duo at the helm of Christchurch’s leading legacy footwear brand Andrea Biani. In 2026 they celebrate 30 years of business and a modern chapter ahead. Metropol editor Nina Tucker catches up with the solemates over coffee. Andrea and Vern Bailey’s invisible string was perhaps instead a […]
When there’s a Will, there’s a way: Will Jordan
You could argue that the 400-year-old proverb was made for Will Jordan. Each try he scores for the Crusaders plants a seed for change. Each dive over the try line is a $1000 donation to Youth Hub Christchurch, a local ‘safe haven’ for rangatahi in need. The rugby star tells Metropol editor Nina […]
Becoming Cassie Henderson
The first concert at One New Zealand Stadium, aptly named ‘Once in a Lifetime’, will be just that for Christchurch born singer-songwriter and 2025 Aotearoa Music Awards’ Best Pop Artist Cassie Henderson. The velvety vocalist and The Voice Australia finalist sat down with Metropol editor Nina Tucker after a whirlwind 12 months and […]
Sway my way: Bic Runga
On the release of her latest album and upcoming tour, Ōtautahi’s own Bic Runga chats with Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen about empty nesting pains, AI and the future of Kiwi music. “Bloody technology queens, that’s what we are,” Bic Runga [Ngāti Kahungunu] laughs, as our interview begins, drops out, resumes, and then […]
ESSENCE
Margaret Chapman: A life of impact
Words: Tamara Pitelen | Images: Aoraki Foundation and RWNZ A city girl who turned country, Margaret Chapman of Geraldine, is this year’s Aoraki Woman of the Year. From protesting on the steps of parliament to organising farm safety seminars, the award recognises her five decades of passionate advocating for the rights of rural […]
The chamber calls
String music brilliance returns to Rangiora with a powerful programme celebrating storytelling through sound. This year, the New Zealand String Quartet returns to Rangiora for the first time since 2008 with their 2026 season tour: Storytellers. On Thursday 7 May and during NZ Music Month, the concert will showcase a vibrant programme titled […]
Clean that carpet: Chemdry
In an instant, food, drink and everyday life find their way onto furniture, upholstery, and carpet. It’s one of life’s biggest frustrations, and more than that, it can impact the health of your home. A build-up of dirt, dust, bacteria and allergens sits deep within fibres, beyond the reach of regular vacuuming. That’s […]
From polo to produce
Words: Pattie Pegler | Images: supplied The fruit and vegetable shop in Woodend has changed a little. With flowers, fresh bread and pantry staples added to the existing range of produce, owners Becks and Dryden Power are transforming it into a cornerstone for the local community. This is more than just a business […]
Build
Discover Ōtautahi through architecture
Open Christchurch, the annual festival of architectural excellence returns from 1 to 3 May with 52 buildings to explore. Immerse yourself in the world of architecture through countless open buildings, 40-plus activities, special events and guided walks. This year’s programme shines the spotlight on unusual and unexpected gems, over 100 years of design […]
Ripple effects: Ross Steele
Navigating uncertainty, creating connection. The world is facing a period of heightened geopolitical uncertainty, and its ripple effects are being felt well beyond headlines. For businesses, this may mean travel disruption, rising airfares, and increased supply chain costs – pressures that inevitably influence decision making and confidence. For those of us in the […]
Filled with gratitude: Mayor Phil Mauger
From sport games and concerts to further investment in the CBD, the city’s grandest project is complete. Depending on when you’re reading this, we’re only days away from the first event at One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha. I can’t wait to see it filled to the rafters with people getting ready […]
A team project: Barry Bragg
The stadium at Te Kaha was built and finished on time, on budget, with no lost time to injury. Last month, the Council opened the One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha, with zero lost time to injuries, and handed over earlier than scheduled, fully meeting specifications, and on budget. As chair of […]
ArtScene
Steve’s scene
Your culture roundup from global music consultant, and Dolly Parton’s local publicist, Steve Guest. S ummer is in full swing and Christchurch’s entertainment scene is proving it. Jimmy (not for the faint-hearted) Carr sent audiences into hysterics with two sold out comedy shows at the Town Hall last month, and Ed Sheeran performed […]
Writing’s on the wall: Sea Signals Street Art Festival
A street art festival with an ocean conservation message is set to transform the city’s public spaces. Five storeys above the footpath on Manchester Street, a young woman is pictured wading through rising water. She’s the first sign that something big is happening in Christchurch this summer. The towering artwork finished in December […]
Living systems: PG Gallery192
PG gallery192 showcases leading artists alongside exciting emerging talent. Monthly exhibitions stimulate the mind as well as the eye. Explore the gallery’s extensive website to view exhibitions, artworks and artist profiles. Open by appointment over February. Gallery reopens 3 March. Image: Structures for Living Systems #8, by Philippa Blair, 2018, oil and acrylic […]
The sparkle of festive season: Isaac Theatre Royal
As Gloucester Street glows with festive lights, it homes one historic, storied stage which becomes a vibrant canvas for music, dance, and storytelling that captures the warmth and wonder of Christmas. The Isaac Theatre Royal welcomes audiences into a season of live performance and holiday enchantment. It all begins with TINA – The […]
Business
Food rescue entrepreneurs
Two new businesses have just launched in Christchurch, both focused on addressing food waste. “This is not just another business announcement,” says cofounder of Misfit Garden Jen Long. “It’s about sustainability, climate-scale food waste, local growers, community resilience, and rethinking how we value produce. All themes that land with everyday New Zealanders battling […]
Ready, steady, retirement: phwealth
When it comes to a comfortable retirement, planning ahead is one of the greatest gifts you can give your future self. Turning 40 or 50 can feel a long way off. And 65? That can seem almost unimaginable for people still in early or mid-career. Yet the day you decide you’re ready to […]
Women decide what gets bought: EBI – Murray Dempsey
Metropol is where businesses earn trust. Here’s a simple truth many businesses still overlook: women run household spending. Globally, women influence around 80% of consumer spending. That’s not just groceries and clothes – it’s homes, cars, renovations, travel, healthcare, financial services and lifestyle purchases. In many households, they are the researcher, the comparator, […]
Besties in business: Pier Law
Starting a business with a friend? Read this first. Starting a business with someone you trust can be an exciting and rewarding venture. You share a vision, trust each other, and are driven by a common goal. However, without the right legal foundations in place, even the strongest relationships can come under strain. […]
