Keeping flowers fresh
Cutting flower stems and pruning the leaves before putting them into a vase, watering them every few days, and keeping them away from direct sunlight, heat, drafts and fruits, all ensure they’re fresher longer. Nick Drewe, trends specialist at UK’s WeThrift says raiding the cupboards may be just as beneficial to your blooms. Check these […]
The dark side
Looking for a wintry interior update? Swap white walls for dark moody hues for the perfect cosy transformation. Going to the dark side can feel intimidating, but dark schemes are a great backdrop for furniture and art and can create a warm, inviting space. Dark shades add drama and grandeur to a home, and heading […]
Meet Metropol’s motoring writer
Ever since I can remember, I have always been utterly fascinated with all things automotive. My mother loved to tell others that her two-year-old son would sit at the bus stop and call out the make of just about every car which went past. During my school years, I developed a keen interest in English […]
A kind of magic
Award-winning comedian magician Jarred Fell is a regular performer in Christchurch, including at the upcoming Bread & Circus – World Buskers Festival 2022. He talks to Metropol editor Lynda Papesch about shocking and delighting audiences in equal measure. Life – indeed the whole world – is definitely a stage for Jarred Fell. Deemed New Zealand’s […]
Go for gingham
Ever-popular gingham isn’t actually a print; it refers to the lightweight material, hence its popularity in spring and summer. Originally the fabric was covered with stripes, but it has since evolved into the playful checkered pattern we know and love today. Appearing in pop culture after Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz donned her famous […]
Secrets to scents
If you received a new scent this season then you are in luck and not alone. Estimates are that the perfume industry is worth more than $33 billion and growing steadily every day, proving we love fragrances. Applying perfume is not just a matter of dabbing or spraying it on. If you want it to […]
Hanmer; a hot destination always
Hanmer is well known for its fabulous thermal pool complex where young and old alike can soak for hours on end in any one of many pools that range in temperature from refreshingly cool to devilishly hot. Boasting the longest waterslide in the country and a suite of private pools, visitors can relax, unwind, rejuvenate […]
Cheat’s Ciabatta: Keepers
Ingredients 2 tsp instant yeast 4 cups high-grade flour, plus extra for kneading 2 tsp salt 2 tsp sugar 2 cups lukewarm water 2 tsp olive oil Method Mix the yeast, flour and sugar in a stand mixer. Pour in the water and mix with the dough hook for 10–12 minutes. The mixture is quite […]
Declutter your pantry & palate
A cluttered pantry can lead to a cluttered mind, and a lack of inspiration when it comes to cooking. Why not have a tidy up and discover your stockpiled groceries too. Knowing what you have on hand and what has been hiding behind that can of baby corn for far too long can help revive […]
Time to get crafty
The Cricut Maker 3 is a machine that has the potential to change the appearance of almost everything in your home. Metropol’s gadget guru Ian Knott gets his art and craft on. If you’re of the crafty persuasion, in that you have a spare room at home full of material, card, coloured paper, glue, buttons, […]
