Short cut

Denim, linen, and the odd pop of colour work a treat for a day out on a boat or yacht. To keep cool, style your shorts overtop your swimsuit. Layer as you please. Channel the waves with hues of blue, and crisp white or black for elegance. Accessorise with sandals, sunglasses, and gold jewellery. Pack […]

Oriental influence

Take inspiration from 2024’s Lunar Year mythical creature, the dragon. A traditional Chinese festival, commonly known as “Guo Nian”, the festival heralds the start of spring in China, and the arrival of the new year. Celebratory customs include sticking Spring Festival couplets, buying New Year’s goods, and family dinners. Here are some ideas to incorporate […]

Flower farming for wellbeing

University-stressed and soul-searching Jaz Rule looked to nature for a spark during lockdowns. Instead, she found everything she’d ever needed to overcome anxiety and the pressures flooding her. Metropol Deputy Editor Nina Tucker finds out why. Lost and confused, deep into a degree in human services and sociology, Jaz pondered her purpose. Online flower arranging […]

A lot of Lotus

It’s the end of an era for Lotus. The coveted Hethel-based sports car brand founded by the late great Colin Chapman has made the decision to transition towards an all electric future. Ben Selby reports. That said, Lotus’ internal combustion is not going out quietly. Say hello to the Emira, the last petrol powered Lotus, […]

Flowers for food flaunting

Edible flowers and their trimmings are a simple way to add colour and charm to any dish. Edible is the key word here. Simply plucking a posy of pretty wildflowers is not the way to go. Many flowers are naturally poisonous, some will have been sprayed with chemicals and pesticides, or encountered toxic materials. Take […]

Bruce Ullrich: The man, the legacy

With the launch of his captivating, historically rich, autobiography ‘My Arena’, Bruce Ullrich, OBE, relives some of our proudest moments, such as the 1974 Commonwealth Games. Metropol writer Natalia Macrides-Pantos reports. One lives a life of limited innings, so why not go for the six? When you’re Bruce Ullrich you simply roll up your sleeves […]

Easy Crayfish Bisque

Crayfish Bisque is an excellent way to get the most out of your Christmas crays, using the leftover shells for a homemade stock. Try it as an entrée, or showcase it as the main meal. Ingredients 6 Tbsp butter 6 Tbsp flour 1/2 Tsp salt 1/2 Tsp celery salt 1/4 Tsp ground black pepper 2 […]

Just peachy

Pantone have announced that their pick for Colour of the Year 2024 is Peach Fuzz. A hue ‘softly nestled between pink and orange’, it contrasts well with various shades of green and blue, with neutrals such as white, gray, and beige, and with metallic rose gold, silver, and pewter. Various shades of red and yellow, […]

Kaylee Bell is killing it

Holding the reigning title of ‘Most Streamed Female Country Artist for Australasia,’ Kaylee Bell tells Metropol writer Daniella Judge about how she forged an electrifying career in country music. If you attended any of Ed Sheeran’s Mathematics tour shows in Aotearoa, Kaylee Bell will be no stranger, opening for the much-loved singer songwriter. Known for […]

Next stop: North Canterbury

Small towns, beachside villages, and as many breaths of fresh air as one could want. North Canterbury is a haven escape from the city, yet close enough to still feel like home. The cafés and retail shops nestled amongst the gorgeous greenery are the cherry on top of a day spent exploring our backyard. Get […]