White chocolate and cherry cheesecake: Keepers

Ingredients Cheesecake 400g vanilla wine biscuits 200g butter, melted 500g cream cheese 1 cup caster sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste 3 eggs 1 Tbsp cornflour 250g sour cream 200g white chocolate, melted Cherry compote 500g frozen pitted cherries ½ cup sugar 1 Tbsp Bakers Blend, OR 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp […]

A delicious tradition

December is a few days away, and so too is the season of holly, tinsel, and carols. As we begin to prepare for all of the merry festivities, we are taking a look at one of the most loved, and most delicious Christmas traditions. Christmas lunch or dinner is often the main event of the […]

The scrunchie gains a hold

Style tends to be a bit of history repeating itself and that aptly applies to hair styles as well. The ‘scrunchie’ is most definitely back and it has a hold on all of us again. Hailing from circa 1980, you can now (once again) find them at shops all over town. That essential elastic band […]

Cocktail DIY

Throwing a cocktail party at home is easier than you can imagine. Sort out a few recipes, a few key tools and ingredients, plus a group of friends and you’re set to go. Stock up on ice, fruit for garnishes, fruit juices to add and a few spices also. Here is Metropol’s guide to successful […]

Mixing politics with family and fun

One of Christchurch’s youngest city councillors, James Gough knew from an early age he wanted to help facilitate change for the better. He talks to Lynda Papesch about his path so far. The city has always been home to James and he’s as passionate about it now as he was growing up. He remembers fondly […]

Work it at the office party

Getting to the end of every year is a call for celebration, especially at work. The festive season is a time to look back on all the accomplishments, the challenges, the highs, and the lows, and say cheers with the people who were there along the way. Some spend more time at work than anywhere […]

Dreamy summer dining: gin gin

Christchurch city is coming alive with summer days nearing, and so too is local restaurant, gin gin. At their special location on electric New Regent Street, gin gin are preparing for long summer days and nights ahead, with an unmatched alfresco dining experience coming soon. Whether it’s long lunching with friends, a relaxed get-together or […]

Rocket tomato cheese pizza: Half Baked Harvest

Ingredients  3 cups cherry tomatoes 4 cloves garlic, smashed 2 Tbsp fresh thyme 2 Tbsp fresh oregano chilli flakes salt and black pepper 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 230g pizza dough, homemade or store-bought 1/4 cup basil pesto 2 cups shredded Italian cheese 50g prosciutto 3 cups rocket 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese fresh […]

Bold bling is in

In an era of Zoom meetings and working from home, big, blingy earrings are the key to looking flawless from your computer screen without putting in much effort. Statement earrings such as chunky hoops or embellished studs have become a grounded trend this year, as seen in Vogue’s 2021 Fall Report. Versace also highlighted the […]

Stay awhile

North Canterbury is full of hidden delights and local treasures. For a leisurely weekend, make a day or two out of exploring the sights, indulging in the cuisine, and discovering the beauty of the wider Canterbury region. Morning Start your journey at one of the local farmers’ markets that often occur on a Saturday or […]