Welcome to Wigram

Christchurch has numerous suburban treasures within easy travelling distance, and Wigram is one of them. Just seven kilometres southwest of central Christchurch, this vibrant area is home to select shops, cafes, artisan breweries, day spas, and much more. Resident, commercial, and industrial properties abound, while historically Wigram has an interesting aviation background. Recreational parks are […]

Destination Dunedin

Dunedin and its surrounds have so much to offer, that it may seem like there is too much choice. The city’s heritage, shopping, and art precincts, plus nature’s overflowing biodiversity and scenery, make it a fabulous addition to your summer getaway schedule. These Metropol suggestions may help you plan your next trip own that way. […]

The best summer yet – in Kaikōura

This summer, write a checklist to ensure you maximise your enjoyment of the warmer weather. Kaikōura, two-and-a-half hours drive from Christchurch, is an exciting and adventure-filled destination for an outstanding summer holiday. Take a look at our Kaikōura summer checklist, and tick off all 10 items to create truly special moments with friends or family. […]

Happening in Hanmer

A typical tourist spot, Hanmer Springs is also so much more. Between water and land, the Canterbury-favourite destination has plenty to fill your calendar and your cup. Start with a pre-Christmas weekend trip to the Alpine Marathon on 2 December. A great challenge to start your summer, it’s an energetic way to enthusiastically kick off […]

Truth or dare Waimakariri

We’ve all played this game at some point, as and when the thrill of the unknown speaks to the adventurer in each of us. Players either share a secret or are challenged to an inventive dare. Notwithstanding its mischievous overtones, Truth or Dare is a playful call to action, that many of the thriving towns […]

A daisy a day: Mickey Raes

Spring is now here, and the long weekends and holiday fever are just around the corner. Approaching six years in the retail business in Hanmer Springs, Mickey Raes is in full-on spring flower mode, with a multitude of exclusive and colourful ornamental daisies spinning cheerfully in the breeze outside the shop. These long-lasting flowers have […]

WOW winners take the stage

The weird, wacky, and the wonderful were all on stage in early October at the 33rd World of WearableArt (WOW) Show 2023 in Wellington. The Supreme Award went to Nelson designer Gill Saunders for her garment, Earthling, making it her 13th WOW placing, seventh award win, and her second time receiving the pinnacle award. Gill […]

A romantic getaway: St James Hotel

Hanmer is delightful in any season. Whether you’re an ‘active relaxer,’ or stretching out with a glass of something delicious is more your speed, the alpine air and mountain surroundings let you know you have arrived somewhere special. Endorsing green initiatives, the centrally located St James Hotel has an EV charger on site. “We also […]

Indulge a while: Stay Geraldine

With winter over and the promise of warmer days and long weekends ahead, perhaps you may be thinking of indulging in a little personal pampering. Just eight kilometres from Geraldine, there is a place where you can de-stress from the world in a wood-fired hot tub while gazing at the stars. This is not some […]

Luxury couple’s accommodation: Stay Geraldine

A romantic, pampered escape with stunning views and a wood-fired hot tub in an eco-friendly cabin – sounds lovely, right? If you’re day dreaming of a place in the country to disconnect, dream no more with Fiery Peak Eco-Retreat. Located just eight kilometres from the oh-so-quaint Geraldine, the retreat was built last year, and designed […]