Must do in Hanmer

Hanmer Springs is one of Canterbury’s most loved not-so-hidden gems. A short drive from Christchurch, North Canterbury and the upper South Island, the small-town punches above its weight in both beauty and activities. Whether you’re a seasoned local, regular visitor or first-time tripper – Metropol recommends some things you simply must do in this quaint […]

Summer in North Canterbury

In a summer where every trip out of the house feels like a special treat, make the most of our freedoms with a trip to North Canterbury. The scenic region is undoubtedly at its best in high summer, and just a short drive away from central Christchurch, how could you not stop in?     […]

Let’s talk travel

We talk travel with House of Travel Ferrymead owners Mel Hubber and Kim Beswick, in the first of an ongoing column. You are both working mums, tell us more about your families? Kim: My partner Tony & I have a gorgeous three-year-old son, Theo, who seems to be in charge at our place as well […]

Coming home…

Having just celebrated its first anniversary, the Nurse Maude Hospital has become home for those needing long-term residential, end of life, complex and respite hospital-level care.   With its large established garden and streamside walk, the residents enjoy warm and secure surroundings, each with their own ensuite, large communal and smaller private lounges. Nurse Maude’s […]

Beauty Awaits

We’re all familiar with the idea that we don’t check out our own backyards, romanticising instead the unfamiliar, the great global journeys, the far flung countries, but right next door to Christchurch, our geographical neighbour offers everything you could possibly hope for in a destination.     Whether investing in a day trip or something […]

Silly Season Celebrations

Silly Season Celebrations

Ashburton has put on its Santa hat and is playing prestigious host to a wide range of events that capture the spirit of the silly season. We’ve curated a collection of our festive favourites, so whip out your social planner and mark some dates.     Marvellous Markets On Sunday 9 December from 10am to […]

Wonderful Wigram

Wonderful Wigram

Wigram is an increasingly popular place to live, work and play. Peter Walker looks at the history of this happening place.     Ninety years ago, Wigram captured international news headlines when Charles Kingsford Smith landed the first successful trans-Tasman flight at Wigram Aerodrome on the morning of September 3, 1928. The flight from Sydney […]