Mike Pero builds a home for John Britten’s legacy
You’ll know the name, and if not that, the radio jingle. But Christchurch entrepreneur Mike Pero has moved on from high-flying business deals – instead, choosing passion over profit. His time, energy and resources are now directed into preserving the legacy of one of the city’s original innovators: engineer and motorcycle designer John […]
Yogi bare: Renee Stewart heart & soul
Defining wellness on her own terms, dancer and yogi Renee Stewart is bringing her mindful movement teachings to Christchurch. Speaking with Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen, she reveals how spirituality runs strong in her maternal line and that Saturn’s return cracked her open. As the daughter of supermodel Rachel Hunter and musician Rod […]
CLOUD DANCER. Curated by Nina Tucker
A classic, wardrobe-essential hue, Pantone’s colour of the year, Cloud Dancer, materialises in boundless range for your 2026 fashion wishlist. Let it be a blank canvas – one that encourages a fresh era of self-expressive dressing.
Mike Pero’s protein-packed brekky bowl
Entrepreneur, businessman, and family man Mike Pero took his cholesterol into his own hands after a heart health scare. He eats clean and with purpose from Monday to Friday, sharing one of his favourite ‘ritual’ recipes – this chia protein breakfast bowl. INGREDIENTS 2 dessert spoons chia seeds 1 tsp pumpkin seeds 1 […]
Ditch the diet
Tired of starting the year with big intentions that fade by February? Local holistic wellness coach and yoga teacher Alex Ballagh, host of the Real World Wellness podcast, explains how to make 2026 the year you eat for good. When it comes to New Year’s resolutions and healthy eating, many of us feel […]
The 5-minute feel-good bowl
Ready to nail your health goals in 2026? This superfood salad does the trick. Local holistic wellness coach and yoga teacher Alex Ballagh shares this salad recipe with a detox dressing. “I give this recipe to most of my private clients because it’s so good. The rocket and lemon support the liver and […]
Protect your pup’s paws
As the summer sun blazes, canines become more vulnerable to heatstroke. How do we protect them? Know the safe temperatures Remember, when you take your canine for a walk, the footpath can be twice as warm as the air temperature. For example, on a 21 degree day, the pavement could reach 42 degrees. […]
Cooking with intention: Hanmer Springs
Most of us know and love Hanmer Springs’ unique setting and stunning vistas. Let Metropol writer Zoe Fenton introduce you to a restaurant in the alpine town offering a dining experience that more than matches its surroundings. All thanks to Scott Buckler – head chef of No. 31 Restaurant and Bar. Hailing from […]
Neuroplasticity is the new self-care
How to rewire your brain for better living: reform, repair and renew neural pathways. Wellness contributor Cosette Calder unpacks neuroplasticity and cognitive fitness. Every new thought, habit, or mindful moment strengthens healthy neural pathways. Reforming neural pathways, (or neuroplasticity), refers to the brain’s remarkable ability to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections […]
Steampunk in South Canterbury
Words: Pattie Pegler | Images: Supplied by Steampunk HQ An old-fashioned dentist’s chair, some rusty old vehicles, a bull’s head atop a human body, strange gadgets that whirr and hiss… Steampunk HQ is an art collaboration and gallery in the historic Victorian precinct of Ōamaru that lets you experience life in a dystopian […]
