Latest Articles
Inject me skinny
If you’ve been struggling with stubborn excess weight for years, the new crop of injectable weight-loss drugs might seem like a gift from heaven. Is there a catch? Metropol writer Sophie Lapsley investigates. For anyone who has struggled with weight loss or become trapped in a cycle of yo-yo dieting, injectable weight‑loss drugs […]
Cats and council chambers
Recently engaged to be married and newly elected for a third term, Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon is a man with plans. Words Tamara Pitelen Just when you thought life couldn’t get any busier for Dan Gordon – three-term mayor of Waimakariri, vice president of Local Government New Zealand, and a familiar face around […]
Create a kitchen garden
Convenient and lovely to look at, a kitchen garden is a great way to level-up your cooking and outside space. A kitchen garden is a dedicated, often small garden space for raised beds, planters, or a backyard plot, to grow vegetables, fruit, herbs, and edible flowers for daily cooking. Positioned close to the […]
Sculpt & restore your skin: Isabel Castro
The journey to beautiful skin isn’t one size fits all. From Brazil to Christchurch, aesthetician Isabel Castro brings a tailored, advanced-technique approach honed over 12 years in the industry. “Enhancing your natural beauty goes far beyond appearance,” Isabel says. That’s why her treatments are tailored to the unique needs and goals of each […]
So cheesy. By Nina Tucker
For six years running, my better half and I have marked Valentine’s Day with easy, cheesy, homemade pizzas. We make the dough, shape it into hearts, and cover it with our preferred toppings. It’s so simple yet so special – an incredibly intimate date night activity and dinner in one. INGREDIENTS 2 tsp […]
Curating calm
Breathe in, exhale. Bring Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Cloud Dancer (the soft, airy white you’re seeing everywhere) home to gently ground your living space – a calm from the chaos. Reduce clutter in the kitchen: Strip your kitchen benches back, keeping only the essentials – a few jars or condiments, some fresh […]
Styling bookshelves
Who doesn’t love a cosy reading nook or a wall of well-loved books? Thoughtfully styled shelves add warmth and character, turning everyday storage into a design feature. There’s something instantly comforting about shelves lined with stories, spines softened by time, and objects collected along the way. Books have a quiet magic in the […]
Fit it out fresh: Agnew Bros
You can’t beat gazing inside a classic or modern car, greeted by a spotless and high-quality interior. No rips in the driver’s seat and no tatty roof lining, just comfort, style and quality throughout. This is something Agnew Brothers know very well. As specialists in automotive and marine upholstery – and a whole […]
Sparks fly
Live orchestra and vocals to a Valentine’s-themed soundtrack in Hagley Park on a balmy summer’s evening, finished with fireworks. Date night, anyone? We’re talking Adele, Kate Bush, The Beatles – the open air concert we’ve known and loved as Mitre10 Sparks, returns for its 43rd year. On 14 February, this dazzling entertainment extravaganza […]
Pearl jam
From sea to style, the pearl has emerged as one of summer’s hottest accessories. TASTEMAKER Bridging tradition with timelessness, the pearl and its elegant, refined luminosity make it an effortlessly luxe look. Stack a pearl bangle with a tennis bracelet.
Canterbury’s auto authority
Look after your pride and joy properly with one of Christchurch’s best teams in automotive care. Your car is in good company at Christchurch European’s newly-expanded Sockburn workshop. “From everyday European drivers to some of the most special performance cars on the road, Ferraris, McLarens and everything in between, we see it all,” […]
Be mine! Curated by Nina Tucker
However you spend Valentine’s Day – at one of Canterbury’s award-winning restaurants, poolside on holiday, or strictly in bed – we’ve got your style (and scent) sorted.
Super easy square truffles: Mind Your Temper
Has all this talk of chocolate inspired you to try making your own at home? Mind Your Temper chocolatier Nel Vincencio says this is the easiest recipe he knows for beginners. INGREDIENTS • 250g 70% dark chocolate • 1 Tbsp coconut oil • 75ml liquid (water, cream, coconut milk, or almond milk) METHOD […]
Toitū Te Tiriti – Nina Tucker
Waitangi Day is a time for New Zealanders to come together and recognise the Treaty of Waitangi’s significance in our past, present and future. Yes, it’s lovely that the public holiday also means many of us snag a day off work, but what it represents is so much more central to our lives […]
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Cuisine
So cheesy. By Nina Tucker
For six years running, my better half and I have marked Valentine’s Day with easy, cheesy, homemade pizzas. We make the dough, shape it into hearts, and cover it with our preferred toppings. It’s so simple yet so special – an incredibly intimate date night activity and dinner in one. INGREDIENTS 2 tsp […]
Super easy square truffles: Mind Your Temper
Has all this talk of chocolate inspired you to try making your own at home? Mind Your Temper chocolatier Nel Vincencio says this is the easiest recipe he knows for beginners. INGREDIENTS • 250g 70% dark chocolate • 1 Tbsp coconut oil • 75ml liquid (water, cream, coconut milk, or almond milk) METHOD […]
Kiwi classics & Sunday roasts: Hoi Polloi
Classic flavours, a cosy atmosphere, and good vibes make this bar and bistro a hot spot for dining and entertainment. Nestled in the heart of Christchurch’s vibrant entertainment precinct, The Hoi Polloi Bar and Bistro in the Carnmore Hotel on Colombo Street is a firm local favourite. Open for breakfast and dinner seven […]
Tradition meets taste: The Bridge Prebbleton
One year into refining and reopening a bustling Prebbleton favourite, hospitality veterans Murray and Melissa Smith feel incredibly grateful. Sorely missed during its three-year-long closure and refurbishment, The Bridge welcomed Prebbleton locals and keen visitors when it opened its doors again. “What a year it has been,” says co-owner Melissa Smith. “From carefully […]
Fashion & Beauty
Pearl jam
From sea to style, the pearl has emerged as one of summer’s hottest accessories. TASTEMAKER Bridging tradition with timelessness, the pearl and its elegant, refined luminosity make it an effortlessly luxe look. Stack a pearl bangle with a tennis bracelet.
Be mine! Curated by Nina Tucker
However you spend Valentine’s Day – at one of Canterbury’s award-winning restaurants, poolside on holiday, or strictly in bed – we’ve got your style (and scent) sorted.
Q. “I’m age 47 and I’ve been using eyeliner almost every day since I was 16. Should I change the way I use eyeliner as I get older?”
Short answer: yes, small tweaks may help. Eyeliner can need an update because, as we age, lashes can thin, lids can droop, and harsh lines can make eyes look smaller or heavier. Here are three tips for flattering, mature eyes. 1. Soften the colour Try charcoal, espresso, deep plum, or navy instead of […]
TOP TEAM: Savvy Hair
From the leadership of South Island’s top hairdresser, this salon team returns refreshed and inspired for another year of fabulous hair. Sarah McGuigan’s prestigious title represents years of commitment to her craft. Her Cashmere salon, Savvy Hair, homes a further seven stylists chanelling confidence and care through hair. Despite 24 years in the […]
Health
Inject me skinny
If you’ve been struggling with stubborn excess weight for years, the new crop of injectable weight-loss drugs might seem like a gift from heaven. Is there a catch? Metropol writer Sophie Lapsley investigates. For anyone who has struggled with weight loss or become trapped in a cycle of yo-yo dieting, injectable weight‑loss drugs […]
Barely coping: Dr Jo Prendergast
Juggling too many balls? Struggling to keep on top of everything? You’re not alone. Women across Canterbury are living on the brink, caught in the #coping epidemic. “I kept hearing the same phrase from clients,” says Christchurch psychiatrist and comedian Dr Jo Prendergast. “They’d say, ‘I’m coping… but only just. Not thriving. Not […]
Sculpt & restore your skin: Isabel Castro
The journey to beautiful skin isn’t one size fits all. From Brazil to Christchurch, aesthetician Isabel Castro brings a tailored, advanced-technique approach honed over 12 years in the industry. “Enhancing your natural beauty goes far beyond appearance,” Isabel says. That’s why her treatments are tailored to the unique needs and goals of each […]
Fitness supreme: My Body Fix
What does it take to beat out hundreds of gyms nationwide and become Aotearoa’s Supreme Exercise Facility? Meet the Christchurch-local winner. Crowned with the prestigious title of Supreme Exercise Facility at the Exercise New Zealand Industry 2025 Awards, Christchurch’s BodyFix gym has punched above it’s weight to beat out the best from across […]
Home & Living
Create a kitchen garden
Convenient and lovely to look at, a kitchen garden is a great way to level-up your cooking and outside space. A kitchen garden is a dedicated, often small garden space for raised beds, planters, or a backyard plot, to grow vegetables, fruit, herbs, and edible flowers for daily cooking. Positioned close to the […]
Curating calm
Breathe in, exhale. Bring Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Cloud Dancer (the soft, airy white you’re seeing everywhere) home to gently ground your living space – a calm from the chaos. Reduce clutter in the kitchen: Strip your kitchen benches back, keeping only the essentials – a few jars or condiments, some fresh […]
Styling bookshelves
Who doesn’t love a cosy reading nook or a wall of well-loved books? Thoughtfully styled shelves add warmth and character, turning everyday storage into a design feature. There’s something instantly comforting about shelves lined with stories, spines softened by time, and objects collected along the way. Books have a quiet magic in the […]
All loved up
What says they’re your one true love? A bottle of pink Veuve Clicquot, a Versace mug, or candy hearts (Simon Lewis Wards style) of course. Look no further than our Valentine’s Day gift guide – we put the thought in so you don’t have to.
One on One
Cats and council chambers
Recently engaged to be married and newly elected for a third term, Waimakariri mayor Dan Gordon is a man with plans. Words Tamara Pitelen Just when you thought life couldn’t get any busier for Dan Gordon – three-term mayor of Waimakariri, vice president of Local Government New Zealand, and a familiar face around […]
The book of love
With 130 books published and 10 million copies sold in 30 countries, Canterbury romance writer Rosie Richards is Aotearoa’s most prolific author. Now based in Akaroa and contracted to produce a new book every 10 weeks, Rosie talks to Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen about fear, love and romance shaming. Rosie Richards – […]
SWAN SONS
Tom, Ike and Cosmo Sylvester are the sons of one of Aotearoa’s most celebrated fashion designers – Kate Sylvester. More than that, they’re a trio moulding their parents’ thirty-year-old fashion house into its contemporary future. They chat with Metropol editor Nina Tucker about imposter syndrome, a life-changing accident, and their new store in […]
Inspire
“Practise 20 seconds of courage every day.” That’s the advice of businessman Paul Wright to conquer every challenge in life – exemplified by his own success in a leadership team taking Harcourts from 12 branches nationwide to almost 1000 across 10 countries. Metropol editor Nina Tucker talks to the man investing all his […]
Build
Hot in the city: Gavin Lloyd
Christchurch looks set to remain a competitive property market in 2026, buyers need to be ready to act swiftly. For those of us watching the property market, the big question is: What will 2026 hold? Looking back on 2025, Canterbury proved to be a real anchor in the property market. The region finished […]
Exciting times ahead: Mayor Phil Mauger
Our city is firing on all cylinders and bubbling with optimism. Wow – can you believe 2026 is already here! I hope you had a safe, fun and relaxing summer break. Hopefully, you had the chance to check out Parakiore over the holidays. Opening that facility was a real highlight for me last […]
Summer skies: Justin Watson
The airport is buzzing with international visitors to Ōtautahi up 15% on last year. We’re right in the middle of our airport’s busy summer season, the time of year when our airline partners add more flights into Christchurch, bringing tens of thousands of visitors from all over the world with them. These direct […]
Rising to the occasion: Alison Adams
Christchurch knows how to step up to the plate, and the city is now entering its next stage of growth. Ōtautahi Christchurch is entering 2026 with unmistakable confidence. You could feel it as we hosted the Special Olympics National Summer Games in December. Thousands of athletes and volunteers bringing our venues to life, […]
ArtScene
Saluting rock ‘n’ roll’s greatest: Isaac Theatre Royal
Hendrix! Winehouse! Cobain! For one night only, Australian rock spectacular ‘27 Club’ salutes the music legends who burned bright and left too soon. Winner of the Adelaide Fringe’s Best Music Award 2021, this electrifying tribute celebrates the legendary members of the so-called 27 Club – Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Kurt Cobain, Amy Winehouse, […]
Steve’s scene
Your culture roundup from global music consultant, and Dolly Parton’s local publicist, Steve Guest. S ummer is in full swing and Christchurch’s entertainment scene is proving it. Jimmy (not for the faint-hearted) Carr sent audiences into hysterics with two sold out comedy shows at the Town Hall last month, and Ed Sheeran performed […]
Writing’s on the wall
A street art festival with an ocean conservation message is set to transform the city’s public spaces. Five storeys above the footpath on Manchester Street, a young woman is pictured wading through rising water. She’s the first sign that something big is happening in Christchurch this summer. The towering artwork finished in December […]
Living systems: PG Gallery192
PG gallery192 showcases leading artists alongside exciting emerging talent. Monthly exhibitions stimulate the mind as well as the eye. Explore the gallery’s extensive website to view exhibitions, artworks and artist profiles. Open by appointment over February. Gallery reopens 3 March. Image: Structures for Living Systems #8, by Philippa Blair, 2018, oil and acrylic […]
Business
Voices & views of North Canterbury
The new year invites a renewed sense of energy and vibrancy to our local towns. We asked six of North Canterbury’s influential businesspeople why 2026 excites them; what challenges the region needs to overcome, and where we might find them when off-duty. Michelle Anderton Founder, Re.clotheme, 2A Good Street, Rangiora I’m most excited […]
The power of presentation: Anthony Deyn
Looking to sell your house in 2026? Getting the best price is about preparation, not luck. It’s widely known that, overall, real estate in Canterbury is currently a buyer’s market. However, plenty of buyers are looking for their dream property, and a little strategic spending will add many thousands to the sale price. […]
FUTURE LOCAL LEADERS
Three outstanding leaders have been awarded a prestigious academic scholarship in recognition of their community impact and leadership potential. Rachel Elsy, Maree Lucas and Warren Poh have been named as 2025 recipients of the Gough MBA Leaders Scholarship, an award supported by Ben and Penny Gough, trustees of the Gough Family Foundation. The […]
Economic turn: Don’t pull the handbrake
Confidence has turned. Businesses that stay on the sidelines risk being left behind. After a long, cold stretch, the business community is finally seeing daylight. This time the shift is backed by hard data, not hope. The latest business surveys point to a dramatic surge in confidence. Sentiment is now at levels not […]