Latest Articles
Architecture excellence
For the house-lovers, a look at some of the Canterbury homes awarded for architectural excellence. More than 20 Canterbury architectural designers were recognised for outstanding design at the recent 2026 Architectural Designers New Zealand (ADNZ) awards. For the full list of all local winners, see page 79, meanwhile here’s a look at some […]
Queens of the stone age
One of the noticeable trends in recent award-winning Canterbury homes is the beautiful use of stonework. From solid stone walls giving strength to the heart of a home to extending exterior schist into indoor living spaces or turning a river-worn boulder into an interior feature, contemporary use of stonework in architecture is shaping […]
Local fashion student a triple threat
Ara’s Alex O’Hagan won three major awards at this year’s Hokonui Fashion Design Awards in Gore, where amateur fashion designers showcase their work to industry leaders. In conversation with Metropol editor Nina Tucker, the third-year student talks about exploring control and spontaneity, and working with velvet to honour his grandma. Tell me about […]
Akaroa paradise: Mt Vernon Lodge
Vows spoken amongst birdsong, nuptials set above a world-famous harbour below… this lush Akaroa lodge is a wedding party’s private paradise. Described as an “oasis of calm in an increasingly hurried world,” Mt Vernon Lodge sits atop Akaroa’s serene landscapes to soothe those stressed pre-wedding nerves. “This is your balcony seat for one […]
On the move: Alison Adams
Ōtautahi Christchurch is a city that will always feel like home. Twenty-five years ago, I left the UK expecting to be away for a short time. Instead, Ōtautahi Christchurch became home. That’s one reason why deciding to leave has been so difficult. The opportunity to join the University of Nottingham as Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Global […]
Flowers you’ll fall for: Victoria Florists
Combining the latest in floral artistry and design with a 90-year heritage, wedding bouquets and event decorations run in the DNA of this Fendalton-based florist. “From outrageous and gorgeous to elegant and intimate, we have made all dreams come true,”says Leanne Lovell of the cherished moments Victoria Florists has been involved in. Couples […]
Bringing love stories to life: Celebrant Justine Johansson
“Officiating wedding ceremonies truly feels like the world’s best job,” says lover-of-love Justine Johansson. The Canterbury-based celebrant shares her story and two top tips for couples preparing to say ‘I do’. “Celebrating one of life’s happiest moments,” celebrant Justine Johansson found her calling after officiating her cousin’s wedding. “It made me appreciate the […]
Waikuku’s wicker destination: Woven Veranda
From Waikuku to the world, Scandinavian-style wicker furniture from this North Canterbury boutique is a firm favourite. “You need to experience the wonders of wicker to know why it remains so popular,” WovenVeranda owner Guy Gunn explains. Think swingseats, lounge chairs, sofas, dining settings – it’s a favourite for indoor and outdoor living. […]
Book smart
Metropol editor Nina Tucker dives into coffee table-core, on a quest to understand the art of the perfect stack-and-style. A few weekends ago, I spent hours inside my living room arranging and rearranging a precious selection of books, magazines and trinkets (all while my partner ticked off a long list of house chores). […]
Seasonal haircare hacks: Savvy Hair
Award-winning hairstylist Sarah McGuigan reveals the three things everyone in the industry is talking about this season: the spring frizz, how to control the curl, and what enhancing your natural colour truly means. Here’s her team’s savviest tips for spring. Spring frizz: How do I manage dry, frizzy hair in heat and humidity? […]
Discover a historic wedding venue: Staveley Co-op 1916
For a wedding venue that offers old-world charm, spectacular views of the Southern Alps, and the freedom to create a celebration that’s uniquely yours, this Staveley gem is well worth a visit. Whether you’re planning a grand wedding or an intimate gathering, the beautifully restored Staveley Co-op 1916 set in the foothills of […]
Māori creativity
Te Wiki o te Reo Māori 2026 takes place in Aotearoa from 14 to 20 September. To honour our official language and the beautiful creativity of the culture, here are seven pieces to shop locally in celebration.
Christchurch’s housing future: TAO Homes
Ten to 20 years from now, what will housing look like in Christchurch? Christchurch is fast becoming one of New Zealand’s most promising real estate markets, and according to Tao Homes Director, Tao Meng, the future demand for housing is defined by buyers demanding more than affordability. “Christchurch continues to evolve into one […]
..and the winners are
There’s no shortage of architectural design talent in Canterbury. Here is the full list of the Canterbury houses and architects recognised for outstanding design at the recent 2026 Architectural Designers New Zealand (ADNZ) awards. Hamilton Avenue, Mansfield Avenue, Flat 7 and Woodford Grace by Cymon Allfrey, Cymon Allfrey Architect Limited (Christchurch) Balmoral Ōtautahi […]
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Cuisine
Orange sorbet
Inspired to try one of the salmon recipes? This dessert is a beautiful complement. Do certain desserts go with salmon better than others? Yes. The best desserts to serve after a salmon dinner are light, bright, and fruity or citrus-based. Orange sorbet is perfect because it’s cold, zesty citrus cleanses the palate and […]
Salmon side dishes
Inspired to cook a salmon dish? Here are three great ideas for sides. Salmon in restaurants is almost always served with vegetable side dishes like broccolini, courgettes, or carrots, and a starchy side of rice or roasted potatoes. All great choices, but for something a little different, try these three sides. 1. Sautéed […]
Tempura oysters with kelp & miso sauce
Delicate and delicious, this beautiful dish of tempura oysters is great when you want your sharing platters to feel elevated. Ingredients • 1/2 sheet dried nori • 1 tsp sesame seeds • 1 fresh small lime, zest only • 100g flaky sea salt Miso dipping sauce • 60g miso paste • 20ml rice […]
Kiwi Punjabi: Indian Springs
Punjabi cuisine with a Kiwi twist has got taste buds excited across Canterbury. “From the start, I have loved this food,” says Roshan Rangra, owner of two Indian Springs restaurants in Canterbury. After 30 years in hospitality and with a passion for North Indian street food, he knows a thing or two about […]
Fashion & Beauty
Local fashion student a triple threat
Ara’s Alex O’Hagan won three major awards at this year’s Hokonui Fashion Design Awards in Gore, where amateur fashion designers showcase their work to industry leaders. In conversation with Metropol editor Nina Tucker, the third-year student talks about exploring control and spontaneity, and working with velvet to honour his grandma. Tell me about […]
Seasonal haircare hacks: Savvy Hair
Award-winning hairstylist Sarah McGuigan reveals the three things everyone in the industry is talking about this season: the spring frizz, how to control the curl, and what enhancing your natural colour truly means. Here’s her team’s savviest tips for spring. Spring frizz: How do I manage dry, frizzy hair in heat and humidity? […]
Aotearoa’s future of fashion
New Zealand Fashion Week 2026 felt like the event’s most diverse, empowering and authentic yet. Ahead of Ōtautahi’s own Spring Fashion Festival in October, Metropol editor Nina Tucker shares the best things she heard and read over the week. “It’s really easy to critique the New Zealand fashion scene,” says Rose Hope of […]
Spring event style: Haar Design
Spring weddings, a fashion festival, and Cup Week to come… trust one of Canterbury’s favourite salons to bring your hair looks to life. “It’s that time of year,” hair stylist Caro Haar says, alluding to the sartorial suspense that builds ahead of all the special events on the spring calendar. “It’s crucial to […]
Health
5 pillars of wellness
As Canterbury prepares to celebrate the 10th anniversary of World Wellness Weekend on 18 to 20 September, the five pillars of wellness come into the spotlight. From nature-based wellness experiences to mindfulness and movement, World Wellness Weekend encourages communities to enjoy free activities that promote healthier, happier lifestyles. What began ten years ago […]
The rhythm of life
What if the secret to feeling better wasn’t about adding more to your day, but about doing the right things at the right time? Deputy editor Tamara Pitelen looks at the chi cycle. Before the invention of electric lights, alarm clocks, televisions, and the 9-to-5 working week, we humans lived closely aligned to […]
Contrast therapy and the coolest place to try it: Elemental
Gwyneth Paltrow swears by contrast therapy. Cristiano Ronaldo made it a cornerstone of his post-match routine. And Metropol editor Nina Tucker believes that Hanmer Springs’ new contrast therapy experience, Elemental, rivals the most premium of celebrity wellness rituals. She takes you inside the guided 75-minute session inspired by the alpine village’s elements. Can […]
Eye on the ball
A Christchurch man has won a brand-new JAC ute after checking his balls for testicular cancer in the Lump Lottery. The Lump Lottery has driven thousands of Kiwi men to check their balls, with 13,478 balls checked during Testicular Cancer Awareness Month. The most commonly diagnosed cancer in teenage boys and young men […]
Home & Living
Waikuku’s wicker destination: Woven Veranda
From Waikuku to the world, Scandinavian-style wicker furniture from this North Canterbury boutique is a firm favourite. “You need to experience the wonders of wicker to know why it remains so popular,” WovenVeranda owner Guy Gunn explains. Think swingseats, lounge chairs, sofas, dining settings – it’s a favourite for indoor and outdoor living. […]
Book smart
Metropol editor Nina Tucker dives into coffee table-core, on a quest to understand the art of the perfect stack-and-style. A few weekends ago, I spent hours inside my living room arranging and rearranging a precious selection of books, magazines and trinkets (all while my partner ticked off a long list of house chores). […]
Māori creativity
Te Wiki o te Reo Māori 2026 takes place in Aotearoa from 14 to 20 September. To honour our official language and the beautiful creativity of the culture, here are seven pieces to shop locally in celebration.
Coffee table books worth collecting
Curated by Nina Tucker A (somewhat green) collection of my favourite coffee table books you can find around the city right now – from the vivacious Iris Apfel to beautiful portraits of our home in Aotearoa.
One on One
Johannes van Kan – A picture of success
For about 20 years, Johannes van Kan was a judge for the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography awards. This year, he challenged himself to enter. It paid off. He has just been named the 2026 Professional Wedding Photographer of the Year. Johannes talks to Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen about his life […]
Christine Prince – instinct and impact
From international marketing roles to leading an emergency air rescue trust in New Zealand, Christine Prince has built a career defined by purpose. Now in the role of chief executive at Cancer Society Southern, she tells Metropol writer Hannah Noordanus about the experiences that have shaped her leadership and the sense of meaning […]
Meet Miss Universe New Zealand: Georgia Waddington
Crowned Miss Universe New Zealand, Christchurch pageant queen Georgia Waddington is stepping into her busiest season yet. Between photoshoots and flights, she sits down with Metropol editor Nina Tucker. Georgia, so much has happened since our last interview in 2023. How have you grown since then? I’ve grown so much over the past […]
Yarns and laughs: Chris Parker
What do Christchurch Boys’ High, felt hats, Celebrity Treasure Island, and knitting have in common? Award-winning comic and Instagram star Chris Parker. Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen sits down with the indefatigable comedian. In an increasingly AI and tech-obsessed world, knitting is a revolutionary act, says Chris Parker. We are talking on the […]
ESSENCE
A new pulse in travel: Travel Pulse
A fresh name and brand, backed by the same trusted expertise, Timaru travel agent Selese Rowe unveils her next adventure with a company where the world is your oyster. “Every itinerary begins with that spark of excitement, the same feeling when you step into a new city, hear a new language, or watch […]
A pleasure doing business
South Canterbury’s business community was out in force in August to celebrate the winners of the 2026 Business & Community Excellence Awards. Leading businesses, community organisations and individuals were recognised at the 2026 Gallagher and South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce Business & Community Excellence Awards on Friday 14 August. The evening celebrated excellence […]
Written on stone
Ancient drawings, fragile landscapes and a 20-year labour of love: farmer and author Philippa F. Graham’s new book South Island Māori Rock Art explores the remarkable history and enduring mystery of Māori rock art in the South Island. In 1916, American anthropologist and antiquarian James Lee Elmore arrived in New Zealand to study […]
More than just a ring: The Ringmakers
Choosing an engagement ring is a huge moment in a relationship. Don’t do it alone. Decisions about engagement rings can be daunting. Should the couple choose together? Should a ring be bought to surprise? You don’t need to decide alone. Working closely with a manufacturing jeweller throughout the process means getting the benefit […]
Build
Architecture excellence
For the house-lovers, a look at some of the Canterbury homes awarded for architectural excellence. More than 20 Canterbury architectural designers were recognised for outstanding design at the recent 2026 Architectural Designers New Zealand (ADNZ) awards. For the full list of all local winners, see page 79, meanwhile here’s a look at some […]
Queens of the stone age
One of the noticeable trends in recent award-winning Canterbury homes is the beautiful use of stonework. From solid stone walls giving strength to the heart of a home to extending exterior schist into indoor living spaces or turning a river-worn boulder into an interior feature, contemporary use of stonework in architecture is shaping […]
Grand designs: Warren and Mahoney
Multi-award-winning architect Tobin Smith of Warren and Mahoney had two of the Christchurch homes he designed honoured in the recent NZ Institute of Architecture awards: Chapter Street and Frankie’s House. This project reimagines a 1920s villa for contemporary family life, retaining its street presence while transforming the interior. A new garden room sits […]
On the move: Alison Adams
Ōtautahi Christchurch is a city that will always feel like home. Twenty-five years ago, I left the UK expecting to be away for a short time. Instead, Ōtautahi Christchurch became home. That’s one reason why deciding to leave has been so difficult. The opportunity to join the University of Nottingham as Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Global […]
ArtScene
Missing Robyn Kahukiwa search
The search is on for a series of missing artworks by one of New Zealand’s most influential artists, Robyn Kahukiwa, for an exhbition in 2027. Do you have a missing masterpiece sitting on your wall at home? Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū is issuing a callout to track down a series […]
Andiamo al cinema! Lumiere Cinemas
Let’s go to the cinema! The Italian Film Festival is in town from 3 to 27 September, with a gala opening event to kick things off. For 11 years, the Italian Film Festival has been showcasing the best of contemporary Italian cinema and timeless masterpieces across New Zealand. This year is no different. […]
Mānawatia a Matariki
Matariki is the Māori name for the cluster of stars that rises in midwinter, also known as Pleiades. For many Māori, it heralds the start of the new year. In 2026, the Matariki period runs from 8 to 14 July, with the official national public holiday falling on Friday 10 July. This year’s […]
See Footloose in Ashburton!
Ashburton Variety Theatre’s production of Footloose proves you don’t need to live in a big city to discover a thoroughly entertaining night at the theatre, writes Metropol’s Nancye Pitt in her review. Staged at the fabulous Ashburton Event Centre, this show bursts with heart, community spirit, and enough energy to have the audience […]
Business
The power in precious metals: Commonwealth Vault
How do you make smart investment moves in uncertain times? To find out, Metropol sat down with Myles Chandler from secure bullion storage facility Commonwealth Vault. What’s been happening with gold and silver lately? After a stellar price rise in February, and a fall off for the last few months, both metals have […]
Aerospace age
Kea Aerospace gains altitude with the opening of a new Christchurch facility and fresh local and international investment. Kea Aerospace is entering its next phase of growth with a new Christchurch manufacturing and operations facility, fresh international investment and a new generation of aerospace talent on the horizon. The company recently opened its […]
Weddings and wills: Port Hills Law
Getting married? Dresses and cakes are fun, but wills and powers of attorney are key, says lawyer and director of Port Hills Law Kristy Rusher. There are lots of conversations happening when you are planning a wedding. Family, clothes, venue, the overall look and feel, as excitement builds before the big day. However, […]
Staying well at corporate events
Health and wellbeing at events is a growing focus as part of efforts to combat burnout, seek genuine human connection, and reject exhausting, over-scheduled agendas. From organic food options to chair yoga and mindfulness, the modern business conference is a far cry from the boozy corporate beige events of the past. As the […]
