A local favourite: The Ivy

If you’re looking for a reason to venture over to Sumner, we have just the place for you. The Ivy continues to be a local favourite after six years in business, and just by one visit it’s easy to see why – being greeted by Karen and her faithful golden retriever makes for a pleasant […]

Model Citizen

Michaelee-Jayne McDonald may look at home on the rugby field or out in the Sumner surf, but this beautiful local is equally at home on a runway or a glamorous photoshoot.   Scouted by Portfolio Model Agency Director and owner Mel Radford-Brown four years ago as a 16 year old in a model search competition, […]

Sumner Gem

Nestled in the heart of Sumner and somewhat now an institution, The Ivy gift and homewares store has moved into its sixth year of business. While favourite brands and labels remain, fresh products are constantly being sourced with an ongoing emphasis on sustainability and ethical production. Owner Karen Aitken, who has a background in food […]

Scarborough’s hidden gem: Ocean Café and Bar

At the end of the Christchurch coastal pathway, Ocean Café and Bar is a true hidden gem. Park your car in Ferrymead, Redcliffs or Sumner Village, stroll along the esplanade towards Scarborough Hill, and there it is.     Don’t let the weather deter you from discovering Ocean’s delicious food, service and welcoming atmosphere, says […]

The Ivy

A beautiful collection: all the beautiful things to be found in Sumner village at The Ivy

The Ivy has evolved since it first opened in 2014 stocking a simple collection of beautiful wares from all around the world. Over time it has grown, broadening its ranges, a treat each time you walk through the door to see what new stock has arrived, whether ceramics, books, children’s gifts or new home fragrance […]

AWESOME HQ, PHOTO BY PEANUT PRODUCTIONS

Savvy shared spaces: fourteen awesome places to co-work in Christchurch

Christchurch is embracing the burgeoning international trend of co-working, with savvy businesses snapping up shared spaces throughout the city. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, start-up or community group, the clever co-working concept is creative Christchurch at its best. Evil Genius Bar & Lair Unit B, 1091 Ferry Road Described as a café, bar and co-working […]

Hybrid Homes

Architectural eco-showhome: Hybrid Homes wanted to show just how good a home can be without sacrificing the environment

Unafraid of tricky building sites, Hybrid Homes has built a new thermally broken, zero-energy showhome. “Power and rain water collection systems combined with building techniques that maximise efficiency allows us to run this home at zero energy cost,” says Hybrid Homes Director Jamie Harrington, who has been designing and building eco homes for more than […]