Good planning is essential

When planning a social-style celebration, there are a few essential steps to ensure success. Clear communication is important, as is making other people’s responsibilities clear from the start. Whether it’s for an 80th birthday party, a wedding or anniversary, family reunion or a ladies lunch, some planning is needed, although how much will depend on […]

Sky high with Laura McGoldrick

Christchurch-born and bred, Sky Sports presenter Laura McGoldrick’s bubbly personality beams at us from thousands of television screens. Metropol writer Neville Idour chats with her about sport, growing up, and life. L aura McGoldrick views herself as a good Canterbury girl and also as a good sport. She’s always been involved in sport, whether playing […]

Let’s go barbie

With the recent release of the highly anticipated Barbie movie, now is a prime time to channel your inner Barbie. Check out these fabulous pink pieces to make you feel like a 10 and pull in a Ken (if that’s your thing). DID YOU KNOW? It is estimated that one billion outfits have been made […]

Pet clothing for a cause

A special canine clothing collaboration between three accomplished business founders is helping to raise funds for abused and neglected pets. Dame Denise L’estrange-Corbet, Julie Chapman, and Rachael Staples are creating custom pet apparel for dogs, designed by Mr Soft Top, to raise funds for Pet Refuge. Pet Refuge offers temporary shelter and care for pets […]

Pieces with personality

Express your personality by incorporating colourful appliances and accessories in your home. Here are a few suggestions to add colour and intrigue to your home, that you can change with different trends, or showcase your creative personality without having to consider a full renovation.

A lady of many talents Christine Hill

Like a fairy story is how Lady Christine Hill describes her life. In a rare interview, Lady Christine, the wife of Sir Michael Hill (jeweller) talks exclusively with Metropol writer Neville Idour about art, jewellery, and design. woman of many talents, Lady Christine Hill has for almost six decades been an integral part of the […]

Pops of green

One of the top interior design trends for 2023 is sustainability, and along with that comes the colours of nature. Green hues top the list of desirable colours, working well with neutrals and bolder choices. Earth-friendly green shades are being used as accents, and accessories, especially in bedrooms and living areas. Plants are an obvious […]

Lap up Kaikōura

Paua patties, delicious crayfish, and seals stretched out in the sun, first come to mind when thinking of Kaikōura. Eat Kaikōura’s name is all about food. In Te reo Māori – Kai means food and Kōura means crayfish. For those up for an adventure, you can go diving for crayfish and cook up an excellent […]

Winter wonderland

Shopping, spas, skiing – Hanmer Springs is within easy reach of Christchurch, offering all of the aforesaid activities and much more. Just 90 minutes from central Christchurch, this alpine village is an all-year-round destination, whether it’s for a day, a weekend, or a longer break. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and towering forests, this charming resort […]

Gardening with limited space

Whether you live in an apartment, have a small courtyard, or simply share your space with others, it doesn’t have to stop you from gardening. Here are some tips to help you garden in your small spaces: Choose compact and dwarf varieties Look for vegetable varieties specifically bred for small spaces or containers. These plants […]