From the Editor: 13 May 2021

Hello Christchurch and Metropol readers. I am excited to have taken the editorial reins of such a well-loved iconic lifestyle magazine and have already started exploring this beautiful vibrant city and its wider environs.     I am especially looking forward to meeting those who call Christchurch home, and discovering what makes it so special […]

From the Editor: 29 April 2021

For 23 years, Metropol has been telling Canterbury’s stories; tales of success, resilience, grit and community. Taking on the role of editor was certainly a daunting task. One I can wholeheartedly say I have poured myself into, alongside a dedicated team of writers, designers, photographers, office staff and sales superstars.     It is no […]

Poetry Knights

It truly was a gathering of literary luminaries when literature and art magazine takahē celebrated 31 years of circulation with the recent launch of its 100th issue at, most fittingly, the Sign of the Takahē.     Current takahē chair, Jeni Curtis, introduced guest speaker and takahē founder, Sandra Arnold, whose anecdotes on the birth […]

Metropol Editor Melinda Collins

Editor’s Perspective: 11 June 2020

“Everyone is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always” Anonymous There’s a kindness epidemic that has been spreading throughout our community. From conversations between neighbouring teddy bears in house windows and Kiwis providing food boxes, to businesses chipping in and NGOs helping communities in need, Kiwis have turned a threat to our […]

Metropol Editor Melinda Collins

Editor’s Perspective: 21 May 2020

In New Zealand, a small business is a big deal. There is, after all, more than 500,000 of them. Those 500,000 small businesses employ upwards of 600,000 people and contribute 28 percent to our gross domestic product (GDP), so that makes them a big deal, to all of us!     And they need us […]

Editor’s Perspective: 05 March 2020

“It is not happy people that are thankful, but rather thankful people that are happy.” – Anonymous     The proverb above has long been a favourite of mine, despite a complete inability to harness the wisdom within it. It’s been something I’ve been reflecting on during some trying times recently. All first world problems […]

Editor’s Perspective: 20 February 2020

I’ve long been a ‘project person’. While this makes me highly efficient when it comes to getting things done, it means I’m not very good at relaxing.   Even my housework is broken up into ‘sections’ so rather than feeling overwhelming, it becomes heaps of little ‘goals’ that result in a mammoth job getting done. […]