Jacob Yikes painting the town

When the Christchurch earthquakes hit, our city became rubble and ruin. People rallied from far and wide to help, among them several artists. Metropol writer Nina Tucker talks to one of them. In February 2011, each broken building and empty wall became a reminder of what once was. Until it wasn’t. Jacob Yikes was one […]

Visit historic Kaiwara Homestead

An open weekend at historic Kaiwara Homestead, on 18 and 19 November, will delight gardeners and history buffs everywhere. Metropol writer Céline Gibson has a sneak peek at what’s in store.   Arare opportunity to view one of Canterbury’s finest farming properties, two consecutive open days at Kaiwara Homestead in Culverden will also benefit the […]

Cartoonist’s slice of heaven

Farmer, rugby player, and much-loved cartoonist, Murray Ball has been brought to life in a new book by his son Mason. Murray Ball: A Cartoonist’s Life, written by Mason Ball is a warm and humorous first biography of Murray. It tells the story of how Murray became the leading cartoonist of his generation, how his […]

Crowning glory Susi Meares

Susi Meares’ passion for hats and headpieces has taken her into the captivating realm of high-fashion headwear, even without a background in fashion or millinery. Metropol’s deputy editor Daniella Judge unravels Susi’s story. One of New Zealand’s most prominent headwear designers and owner of Seventh & Figg,  Susi’s career began with her love for fashion […]

To foster or adopt

Have you been watching too many cute cat videos or The Dog House recently? Does now feel like the right time to bring a furry friend into your life? After weighing up the costs and responsibilities, it might be worth considering fostering or adopting a pet. Foster Foster homes are often sought for animals that […]

Resilience expert Dr Lucy Hone

Director of the New Zealand Institute of Wellbeing and Resilience, Dr Lucy Hone is also an academic researcher, author, and contributor to Psychology Today. Metropol deputy editor Daniella Judge chats to her about why she chose resilience psychology, and her top tips for coping with challenge, change, and loss. Originally from London, Lucy found herself […]

Fruity wee salads

Fruit is a welcome ingredient in many salads, and we’re not just talking desserts. Fresh, frozen, or even tinned, many fruits add extra dimensions to time-honoured savoury vegetable salads. A classic example is a Waldorf salad with apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts. Variations include using dried fruits, such as raisins and dates. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, […]

The best summer yet – in Kaikōura

This summer, write a checklist to ensure you maximise your enjoyment of the warmer weather. Kaikōura, two-and-a-half hours drive from Christchurch, is an exciting and adventure-filled destination for an outstanding summer holiday. Take a look at our Kaikōura summer checklist, and tick off all 10 items to create truly special moments with friends or family. […]

Happening in Hanmer

A typical tourist spot, Hanmer Springs is also so much more. Between water and land, the Canterbury-favourite destination has plenty to fill your calendar and your cup. Start with a pre-Christmas weekend trip to the Alpine Marathon on 2 December. A great challenge to start your summer, it’s an energetic way to enthusiastically kick off […]

Showing up with Tracy Ahern

Everyone loves a show, and Tracy Ahern is no exception. Metropol editor Lynda Papesch caught up with her ahead of The New Zealand Agricultural Show, for which she is general manager. Tracy Ahern loves animals and shows, and it is just as well. Tracy spends her mornings, afternoons, and sometimes weekends, planning around numerous farm […]