Classic apple pie

With an elegant lattice top, this apple pie is classic comfort food at its finest. Sweet buttery pastry complements a spiced apple filling for a delicious rustic treat. INGREDIENTS | Serves 8 6 large apples, peeled and diced 3 Tbsp butter 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup white sugar, plus extra for sprinkling 1 Tsp […]

Gripping gusto: Lotus Emira Turbo First Edition

As Lotus ventures ever closer to being an EV-only luxury car maker, the Emira seems to be the UK-based brand’s last with an internal combustion heart. Metropol writer Ben Selby shares more. I became rather besotted with the Emira V6 manual when I tested it for Metropol last year, so I was dead keen to […]

This calls for comfort food: Potato Top Sausage Bake

Comfort food comes second nature to Kiwis – even more so at this time of year. No, comfort food isn’t usually a healthy, nutritious meal. It’s a treat that collects and contains memories. A bite of baking that transports you back to your grandmother’s kitchen, or a spoonful of crispy potato bake that you couldn’t […]

Nature inside: The houseplant renaissance in urban living

In an era where many of us spend more time indoors and at our screens, the humble houseplant is having a moment – and it’s more than just a design trend. By Tamara Pitelen. Urban homes and apartments across Christchurch are embracing a leafy revival, turning interiors into calming green sanctuaries that nourish both style […]

The many styles of yoga in Christchurch

Breathe in, bliss out, balance or burn – whatever you need, there’s a yoga style to suit, writes Tamara Pitelen. From hot, steamy studios to serene slow flow and gravity-defying aerial yoga, Ōtautahi thriving wellness scene offers yoga for every body and mind. Here’s a few of the styles and where you can find them. […]

Zesty lemon cheesecake

A dessert or a treat, this recipe only takes 30 minutes to make and is fresh, tangy, and oh so tasty – a cheesecake that promises comfort in the form of classic flavours. INGREDIENTS | Makes 16 pieces Base 250g packet malt biscuits 100g butter, melted Lemon Topping 250ml thickened cream 250g cream cheese, softened […]

Sculptural serenity

Curves have appealed to our interior eye for years now – it’s a trend worth committing to for the long-term. Mimicking nature and fluid movement, curvature invites peace and comfort to an interior space, and a breathtaking visual element to exteriors. Connected by shape to organic natural forms, curves offer the same tranquil environment to […]

Homegrown success story: Kate Macdonald of Davaar

Kate Macdonald is the female face ushering in a new age of appreciation for strong wool jerseys. From farm to fashion, the founder and creative director of Davaar & Co., now Davaar, chats with Metropol editor Nina Tucker. “Wool was all we wore,” Kate says of a childhood surrounded by it with sister Anna, brother […]

Richard Aindow: Courting the arts in Christchurch

Music, theatre, dance and visual art have all played a significant role in Richard Aindow’s life. The incoming chief executive of The Court Theatre, Richard explains to Metropol writer Lynda Papesch how culture has shaped his life and career. On 23 June 2025, Richard will take over the reins of The Court Theatre from incumbent […]

Irish lamb, barley and potato stew

This tender lamb dish from Olivia Andrews’ Slow Cooking is every bit as good whether cooked in the slow cooker or stovetop. Comforting, affordable and convenient – this hearty recipe nourishes with ease and style. SERVES: 4 Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 71/4 hours (slow cooker), 11/2 hours (stovetop) INGREDIENTS 2 Tbsp olive oil […]