Belkin takes charge

Fumbling with multiple charging cables is a thing of the past for Apple users. Metropol’s gadget guru Ian Knott checks out Belkin’s Boost Charge Pro charging stand. We’ve all experienced that “Who’s taken my charging cable?” moment, or gotten sick of navigating the snaking, intertwined bedside cables just so you can set your morning alarm. […]

The smart home rise

The smart home market is booming, with more and more people introducing tech into their homes in 2022. The convenience of products like voice-assisted technology, such as Alexa and Google Home, is driving huge amounts of growth in this market. As well as this is popularity in tech that assists with home security, home temperature […]

On and off the stage

Actor, comedian, singer, writer, producer, and director, Mark Hadlow wears many hats and is one of New Zealand’s most loved and well-known performers. His outstanding appearances in musical theatre and plays, as well as television and movie roles have lead to him receiving multiple awards for his work. Metropol writer Georgia Summerton chats to him […]

An entertaining entrepreneur

Thespian, entrepreneur, entertainer, and friend. These are just a few words that describe celebrated Christchurch actor Peter Rowley. Metropol’s Kia Dirkson caught up with him to see what is the next phase for one of the country’s most enduring comedians. On a bright summer afternoon, a warm smile greeted me at the door. The charming […]

Colouring our world

Colour, pattern and design are all hallmarks of Christchurch business woman Vicki Ogden-O’Fee. Metropol editor Lynda Papesch talks with her about the how and why. Surviving for more than three decades in the cut and thrust of the hair, beauty and fashion industry is no mean feat. Expanding and diversifying a multi-layered business in the […]

Print and paper: facts vs fiction

Paper has proven an integral part of our lives since it was invented, sometime between 50 and 120 AD, primarily to record data and to keep knowledge safe for generations. Centuries down the track, magazines such as fortnightly lifestyle magazine Metropol are still doing just that, despite misconceptions that paper is wasteful, detrimental to the […]

Autumn air

The last of the warming summer sun is about to say goodbye, and chilly autumn days are soon to take its place. The in-between seasons are always a struggle to get right in the wardrobe department, often we still have nice warm weather for weeks after summer, and then the sudden chill hits, catching bare […]

Secrets to skincare

The beauty industry is booming, and full of an overwhelming amount of advice and claims on how to achieve flawless, smooth and wrinkle-free skin. Educating yourself on what ingredients, products and techniques work for your skin is the very best tool you can have. Here are a few to consider. Vitamin C The ingredient synonymous […]

Causing a stir

As we hold on to the last of summer, the longer nights, and delicious seasonal fresh fruit available, the need for hydration often leads us to the mixers and result in high spirits. However, to get the best out of our cocktail concoctions, there are a few necessities when it comes to building your own […]

Green goodness lemon & parmesan risotto: Annabel Langbein

Courtesy of BELLA, Annabel Langbein Ingredients 3 tbsp butter or neutral oil 2 onions, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1½ cups risotto rice ½ cup white wine 6 cups hot vegetable stock, plus a little extra if needed 1 tsp salt ground black pepper, to taste 4 handfuls baby spinach leaves 2 cups frozen […]