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 North Otago
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 […]
Choc-dipped almond and pepita bars
A healthy pick-me-up snack for taking to work or popping in the kids’ school lunchbox, these gluten-free nutty bars deliver a fix of healthy fats and a sustained energy boost. INGREDIENTS – Makes: 16 | Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 30 mins 1 cup white sesame seeds 1/2 cup pepitas (pumpkin […]
Christchurch earthquakes 15 year anniversary: then & now photos
February 2026 marks 15 years since the magnitude 6.3 Christchurch earthquake shook the city, took 185 lives, injured thousands, and left tens of thousands with emotional scars. It’s impossible to overstate the profound impact this tragedy had on our city – so in commemoration of its anniversary, we reflect on how far we’ve […]
Renovation revolution
Staying put could be your best move in a sluggish property market. Here’s a guide to taking on that nagging renovation project. With the local housing market in something of a slow period, more people are choosing to stay put and channel their efforts into renovation rather than selling up. There are two […]
