Animal antics with Mark & Kirsty

Three generations of Cantabrians have grown up with special memories of furry and feathered friends at Willowbank. Metropol Editor Lynda Papesch catches up with founding family siblings Kirsty and Mark Willis to look back on its first 50 years. Naturalist, photographer, and writer, Edwin Way Teale once wrote, “Those who wish to pet […]

National architecture winners

The 2024 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Awards recognised two Canterbury projects amongst the winners, identifying the best of the best architectural design in New Zealand. A Fendalton residence by Sam Connell of  Figure & Ground, featured in the 12 December issue of Metropol, won the award for the best New Home over 300m2, […]

The gift of growing

Last-minute presents, or the ‘thank you’ gift you need for the hosts of your holiday escape, find the solution in the form of a plant. Gifting a plant is more than it seems, symbolising growth and life. A timeless tangible offering that dates back centuries, it is still a welcome gift in the […]

Kiss me

Lip gloss is the handiest weapon in your beauty arsenal, for dewy, no-makeup days. Like the noughties, lip gloss is again all the rage – but the product formulas look vastly different. It could be argued that Hailey Baldwin Bieber’s Rhode Peptide Lip Treatments are to thank for the revolution. Becoming such a […]

BOSS LADY: Abbey Dickson

Abbey Dickson is the brains behind Christchurch’s Fashion Society boutiques. She shares the pivotal moment in becoming her own boss and the journey she has embarked on with Metropol Deputy Editor Nina Tucker. Returning from a fleeting Sydney work trip just the day before, Abbey was wearing a chic Onte vest, straight-cut jeans, […]

Classic cherry compote

Is there anything better in the summer holidays than a big bowl full of cherries? Sweet and with a touch of tart – this juicy fruit is a classic come Kiwi Christmastime. Cherry compote, with its balanced flavour profile and rich red colour, is a wonderful utilisation of ripe cherries, saving a few […]

Sleep in festive style

Get cosy with your closest over Christmas in sleepwear sets that suit the season. Lean into the craze completely, with colour, motifs, and accessories, and find yourself dressed and ready for memory-making and photo-taking on Christmas morning. By Nina Tucker.

Take flight

Navigating your travel wardrobe can be tricky, so versatility is key – with pieces that keep you comfortable in the air or on the road yet can be easily dressed up. Reflect your holiday destination through earthy neutrals, and keep a nice heel or bag in your suitcase for classier excursions. By Nina […]

Picnic by the pool

Picnic or platter-style eats are a favourite for poolside or outdoor gatherings, utilising foods in their natural state to be collated on a plate by your guests as they please. While it screams ‘do it yourself’, it does so beautifully. Colour, texture, and construction of certain elements make a simply stunning presentation. The […]

Shine time

As the New Year approaches, many thoughts turn to celebrating its arrival. New Year parties are usually about glitz and glamour, sparkle and shine, a time to dress up and enjoy scintillating conversation, Champagne, and gourmet treats. Black is a favourite for evening glamour, paired with gold or silver to add sparkle. The […]