From the Editor: 21 January 2021

In the last issue of 2020, I used this column to write about the year that was. Reflecting on those simpler, pre-pandemic times, I wrote: “We had no idea what was coming”     Re-reading those words before starting this editorial for the first Metropol issue of 2021, it struck me how the same sentiment […]

From the Editor: 17 December 2020

As we send our last magazine of 2020 to print, it seems hard to believe this time last year we were unaware of a mysterious illness which was about to dramatically redefine the months ahead.     It’s fair to say: We had no idea what was coming. While much of the world succumbed to […]

Leftover heroes

The day is done, and your culinary skills might start to feel depleted – while your fridge is probably anything but. Don’t let those delicious leftovers go to waste by creating new and exciting meals with less effort and less trips back to the post-public holiday supermarket. Here are Metropol’s ideas for making the most […]

Hat tricks

Protecting your precious skin from those harmful rays is an important, but not exclusive, benefit of a summer hat. There are serious sartorial gains to be had when adding headwear to your summertime style.     While classic straw hats will always have a place in our hearts – and on our heads – this […]

From the Editor: 10 December 2020

December is undeniably a month synonymous with spending quality time with friends, family and loved ones. And in a year which did its utmost to keep us all apart, there is no doubt we will all be appreciating these opportunities should we be lucky enough to have them.     But, as with many things, […]

Awards find homes in Canterbury, Southern Lakes

A former state house transformed to a modern family home steeped in cultural significance, the showroom of a sustainable timber brand, a farm cottage conversion and an impressive public restroom are the four Canterbury and Southern Lakes projects recognised with prestigious New Zealand Architecture Awards recently.   The 2020 ceremony held at the Christchurch Town […]

From the Editor: 26 November 2020

Another fortnight, another opportunity to showcase the talented people and businesses which make up our region. This issue we have some incredible stories from all corners of the region which highlight, celebrate and champion those who give our locale its unique and special character.     On page 16, we learn about the inspiring musical […]

From the Editor: 12 November 2020

We’re here. The tail end of 2020 has arrived, and those Christmas lights at the end of the tunnel are starting to glow brighter. So, too, are the longer days and anticipation for the season of socialising and celebration.     In Canterbury, the commencement of silly season is traditionally signalled by Cup Week. An […]

Sip into summer

Refreshing, thirst quenching and palate-pleasing – there’s nothing quite like sipping a cocktail on a balmy afternoon or evening. With a suite of fresh ingredients to choose from, body temperatures to regulate and socialising to be done – summer is an acceptable excuse to get inventive with your imbibements.     TWIST ON THE CLASSICS […]

Hidden hikes of Hanmer

You know about the hot pools, you know about the adrenaline activities and you know about the quaint village – but did you know about the plethora of hikes and tramps awaiting at Hanmer Springs?     PARK PARADISE Hanmer Forest Park is a walker’s paradise. The indigenous forest and a small portion of exotic […]