Surviving the unsurvivable: Sheena Hemens
In the space of a few weeks, Christchurch businesswoman Sheena Hemens lost her business, her relationship, her home and, worst of all, her daughter. She sat down with Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen to reveal how she endured and why she now speaks openly about grief and resilience. “Losing a child, or any […]
Top of the South foodie’s tour
From character-rich cafés serving up classic Kiwi fare to beautifully restored taverns oozing with historic charm and hearty pub grub, and uber-modern eateries, dining at the top of the South Island is an exploration of sensational flavours, textures and artisanal food aroha. Here’s our guide to a foodie’s tour of the top of […]
Your day, your way
If there’s one thing we’ve learned from the thousands of wedding images our editorial team has been poring over in the last few weeks, it’s that Canterbury couples are ripping up the rule book. In 2026, the way people say ‘I do’ is infused with personality and pizazz. Here’s a snapshot – see […]
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 […]
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 […]
New look New Brighton
A wave of revitalisation is moving through New Brighton, reshaping the beachside suburb into a vibrant, people-focused destination. Things are changing over in New Brighton. Once known primarily for its windswept beach and slightly faded mall, the seaside suburb is experiencing a wave of investment that is steadily transforming it from a quiet […]
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 […]
Mixed berry & rhubarb pie
Serve up elegance this Easter. A lighter pie filled to the brim with juicy tart berries and rhubarb, it’s perfect for an Easter tea table or as a dessert topped with ice cream. INGREDIENTS | Serves 6-8 Pastry • 1 1/3 cups plain flour • 1/3 cup icing sugar • 125g salted butter, […]
Akaroa is open
The recent floods on Banks Peninsula have not dampened community spirit in Akaroa, the town is open for business and pleasure with plenty of fun planned for the coming months. After weeks of wild weather on Banks Peninsula, Akaroa is doing what it does best, which is rallying together, drying out and getting […]
Silver sneakers are having a moment
Curated by Nina Tucker Throw everything you know about styling sneakers out the window. The fashion police have spoken: if they’re silver, you can wear them anywhere. Welcome in the office (where walking meetings become your best friend) just as much as they are when dining at The Terrace, Vogue describes the silver […]
