Latest Articles
The Crossing instant style | What to wear. Where to buy it.
Editor’s Picks: the perfect match Fuss free, one-and-done. When you say hello to the matching set, you say goodbye to decision fatigue. A matching set turns a two-part decision into one instant choice. Pieces already made to be cohesive – in colour, silhouette and vibe. The coordinating set makes bad wardrobe days a […]
Outdoor oasis in 3
Three easy ideas to transform your outdoors into an oasis. Throw shade Transform your backyard into an Amalfi paradise by dotting a few fringed or scalloped umbrellas around. Bonus points if you have loungers and a pool. Plant pot power Make greenery your superpower. Thrift a collection of pots (think cohesive not carbon […]
Celebration cocktail
Whether your horse, outfit or long weekend getaway is a winner, this berry fizz celebration cocktail tastes like spring success and is the perfect drink to cheers to. Ingredients • 1 bottle chilled Champagne or Moscato • 1 shot raspberry sugar syrup • 1 shot berry or sloe gin • A squeeze of […]
Rooms of Canterbury
Step inside three of Canterbury’s most beautiful, creative and captivating rooms with award-winning portrait photographer Jane Ussher, in her second book showcasing remarkable New Zealand interiors. How soon after publishing her first deep-dive of Aotearoa’s never seen before residential interiors would Jane Ussher decide to make a second version? “Almost immediately,” she says. […]
Master the bombshell blowout at home
Voluminous blowouts and bouncy hairstyles are everywhere after featuring at the 2026 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, and searches for ‘bombshell hair’ are on the rise. How do you create that runway-ready look at home? Build from the roots. The bombshell look combines height around the crown with movement through the locks. Lift sections […]
Local stars at Christmas in the Park
A nationwide talent search for Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park always uncovers rising musicians in Canterbury. Meet the five locals performing with a star-studded cast at one of New Zealand’s most exciting free Christmas celebrations in front of a massive live audience at Hagley Park this 28 November. Some of Canterbury’s most exciting […]
Christmas spectacular: Terra Viva
“We have a reputation for spectacular Christmas displays,” says Terra Viva’s Peter Worsp. That reputation is almost 30 years in the making. Inside this beloved home and garden hub on Roydvale Avenue in Burnside, Christmas inspiration sourced from New Zealand importers and new Australian suppliers come together to take all the guess work […]
Country style with a nod to British heritage: Rangiora Saddlery
Move over, black puffer jackets. If you’re looking for outdoor clothing to take you from the stable yard to a weekend in the country, Barbour combines practicality and timeless style. Renowned for its iconic waxed jackets, quilted outerwear, and distinctive British countryside aesthetic, Barbour has genuine equestrian credentials. Its Bedale jacket was designed […]
New sport for the new age: Christchurch European
“Just arrived at Christchurch European, the stunning all new 2024 Range Rover Sport D300 Autobiography is ready to impress,” says managing director and car enthusiast Niki Mills. Combining luxury, performance, and versatility, this next-generation Sport is the ultimate all-rounder for any adventure,” Niki says of the top-tier luxury mild hybrid diesel SUV. “Whether […]
Peta Mathias’ Ginger and Raspberry Madeleines
Madeleines come from the Lorraine region in France, writes Peta Mathias in her latest cookbook Recipes from the Supper Club. They are shell-shaped sponges served upside down, traditionally plain but you can add flourishes like lemon zest, chocolate buttons or nuts. This recipe makes 45. Ingredients • 185g butter • 2 Tbsp grated […]
Electric freedom: VP Batteries
From 100% Kiwi-owned and operated battery specialist, discover the latest technology for electric freedom and keep your transport performing at its best. There is nothing worse at the beginning of the morning commute to hop into your car, turn the key or press the starter button and nothing happens, says Vaughan Pirie of […]
Italian linen you’ll love: Made in the Shade
Made in Italy, found in Christchurch. A beautiful, breathable collection of dresses in this must-have summer fabric are available at fashion boutique Made in the Shade. Linen is as effortless to wear as it is in looks. Its relaxed texture offers a timeless elegance, while the naturally breathable and moisture-wicking fabric means you […]
WIN with Ōpuke
Celebrating five years as a dreamy and award-winning wellness destination with its iconic swim-up bar, Methven’s Ōpuke Thermal Pools & Spa is giving away a Serenity Experience for two adults to soak, sauna and sip. Be in to win a two-hour private tub session with food and beverage service, a welcome platter of […]
6 reasons why pools are an ideal investment: Nova Space
From leisure to holistic healing, fitness, and quality time with family… NOVAspace owner and passionate pool man Chris Thelin shares six reasons why pools make an ideal investment. Family connection Chris says happy family memories are made around a pool. It’s a hub for family connection and time spent with loved ones. Swimming […]
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Cuisine
Celebration cocktail
Whether your horse, outfit or long weekend getaway is a winner, this berry fizz celebration cocktail tastes like spring success and is the perfect drink to cheers to. Ingredients • 1 bottle chilled Champagne or Moscato • 1 shot raspberry sugar syrup • 1 shot berry or sloe gin • A squeeze of […]
West Melton’s French bakery and patisserie: Les Delices Bakery
The sweet smell of warm butter, baked pastries and fresh bread envelop this true artisanal French bakery in West Melton. A nchoring Sophia and Shane Smedley’s craft is a commitment to real ingredients and no shortcuts. Inside Les Delices Bakery, the owner-baker duo create pastries with real butter and not the easier pastry […]
Ashburton eats: Phat Duck
The next time you’re in Ashburton, add this brew bar and kitchen to your itinerary. The Phat Duck has a reputation as the town’s ‘most happening venue’, thanks to its mouth-watering menu, cold drinks, occasional live music, large screen viewing to catch the game, and both indoor and outdoor seating. The food range […]
Peta Mathias’ Ginger and Raspberry Madeleines
Madeleines come from the Lorraine region in France, writes Peta Mathias in her latest cookbook Recipes from the Supper Club. They are shell-shaped sponges served upside down, traditionally plain but you can add flourishes like lemon zest, chocolate buttons or nuts. This recipe makes 45. Ingredients • 185g butter • 2 Tbsp grated […]
Fashion & Beauty
The Crossing instant style | What to wear. Where to buy it.
Editor’s Picks: the perfect match Fuss free, one-and-done. When you say hello to the matching set, you say goodbye to decision fatigue. A matching set turns a two-part decision into one instant choice. Pieces already made to be cohesive – in colour, silhouette and vibe. The coordinating set makes bad wardrobe days a […]
Master the bombshell blowout at home
Voluminous blowouts and bouncy hairstyles are everywhere after featuring at the 2026 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, and searches for ‘bombshell hair’ are on the rise. How do you create that runway-ready look at home? Build from the roots. The bombshell look combines height around the crown with movement through the locks. Lift sections […]
Italian linen you’ll love: Made in the Shade
Made in Italy, found in Christchurch. A beautiful, breathable collection of dresses in this must-have summer fabric are available at fashion boutique Made in the Shade. Linen is as effortless to wear as it is in looks. Its relaxed texture offers a timeless elegance, while the naturally breathable and moisture-wicking fabric means you […]
Beauty upcycled
Just days after graduating, University of Canterbury graduate Emmalee Abbott Joe landed an international role promoting ingredients made from plant-based by-products that might otherwise go to waste. University of Canterbury graduate Emmalee Abbott Joe’s new role with United Kingdom-based B Corp certified trailblazer The Upcyled Beauty Company focuses on raising awareness of upcycled […]
Health
Blue brotherhood
For men living with cancer, Blue Brothers is helping build connection and camaraderie, one exercise class and coffee at a time. When men receive a cancer diagnosis, the physical challenges are often accompanied by isolation, uncertainty and the difficulty of talking about what they are going through. Blue Brothers, a charitable organisation with […]
Exercise and cancer
New research finds that exercise can significantly improve outcomes for cancer patients. Landmark cancer research has found structured exercise can improve outcomes for some colon cancer patients, with international oncology guidelines now recommending it as part of care. That evidence is also starting to shape cancer care here in New Zealand. The findings […]
Gutsy moves
Your gut is a rainforest that determines everything from your weight to your mood, but modern life is decimating our critical gut microbes, making us all sicker. Ever wondered why mosquitoes seem to feast on some people while ignoring others? It’s your microbes. The bacteria on our skin produce chemicals that help determine […]
Live well. Move well – Christchurch Wellness Centre
Christchurch Wellness Centre celebrates a decade of helping Canterbury move better, feel better and live well. Since opening on Memorial Avenue in June 2016, founder Dr Mary Patterson, chiropractor, and her team have welcomed more than 7200 new patients and delivered tens of thousands of expert chiropractic appointments. “I’m proud of what we’ve […]
Home & Living
Outdoor oasis in 3
Three easy ideas to transform your outdoors into an oasis. Throw shade Transform your backyard into an Amalfi paradise by dotting a few fringed or scalloped umbrellas around. Bonus points if you have loungers and a pool. Plant pot power Make greenery your superpower. Thrift a collection of pots (think cohesive not carbon […]
Rooms of Canterbury
Step inside three of Canterbury’s most beautiful, creative and captivating rooms with award-winning portrait photographer Jane Ussher, in her second book showcasing remarkable New Zealand interiors. How soon after publishing her first deep-dive of Aotearoa’s never seen before residential interiors would Jane Ussher decide to make a second version? “Almost immediately,” she says. […]
Christmas spectacular: Terra Viva
“We have a reputation for spectacular Christmas displays,” says Terra Viva’s Peter Worsp. That reputation is almost 30 years in the making. Inside this beloved home and garden hub on Roydvale Avenue in Burnside, Christmas inspiration sourced from New Zealand importers and new Australian suppliers come together to take all the guess work […]
6 reasons why pools are an ideal investment: Nova Space
From leisure to holistic healing, fitness, and quality time with family… NOVAspace owner and passionate pool man Chris Thelin shares six reasons why pools make an ideal investment. Family connection Chris says happy family memories are made around a pool. It’s a hub for family connection and time spent with loved ones. Swimming […]
One on One
Sultan of swing: Sir Richard Hadlee
He’s bowled 100,000 balls, died three times, and been knighted for services to cricket. A national treasure in every sense, cricketing legend Sir Richard Hadlee sits down with Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen to talk mortality, glory days, and Ed Sheeran. “If I had a second life, I’d want to come back as […]
Jack Tame
From a Christchurch childhood spent exploring the Port Hills on his bike to interviewing the country’s most powerful figures, broadcaster and former Cashmere High student Jack Tame talks to Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen about truth, trust and tribalism. When he was 16 years old, Jack Tame wanted to be the next Paul […]
Savage
New Zealand’s most successful rapper and Warriors superfan turned musical mascot, Demetrius Savelio, better known as Savage, sits down with Metropol editor Nina Tucker ahead of headlining Christchurch’s biggest Tuesday at Addington Raceway’s Cup Day this 10 November. “Wherever God leads, I’ll follow.” Hip hop hero Savage features names like Pitbull and Akon […]
Inside Antipodes – Elizabeth Barbalich
Elizabeth Barbalich is the businesswoman with a science degree who started skincare range Antipodes because she wanted her skin to feel as good as her body did when she nourished it right. She talks about plants, plastic and being New Zealand’s pioneering natural brand, with Metropol editor Nina Tucker. Behind the big beauty […]
ESSENCE
Farm to fashion: Sally MacDonald
Although raised in the Wairarapa, Sally MacDonald knew she was home the moment she flew over the patchwork paddocks of Canterbury. Nearly 46 years later, she tells Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen how she has made Amberley home, built a much-loved fashion business and remained true to the community spirit that defines her. […]
Country style with a nod to British heritage: Rangiora Saddlery
Move over, black puffer jackets. If you’re looking for outdoor clothing to take you from the stable yard to a weekend in the country, Barbour combines practicality and timeless style. Renowned for its iconic waxed jackets, quilted outerwear, and distinctive British countryside aesthetic, Barbour has genuine equestrian credentials. Its Bedale jacket was designed […]
Make your roof an energy asset: Solar Alps
Taking control of power bills is within reach by making the most of your roof. Unused roof space can be turned into a productive energy asset, especially with an affordable solar solution that is bespoke to the home, farm, or business. Locally owned and operated in Christchurch, Solar Alps, led by owner Josh […]
Mat or reformer? My Physio Timaru
Pilates is for everybody. Find the type of Pilates that’s the best fit for you to build strength and mobility. Pilates is sometimes mistaken for ‘just stretching’, but its real value lies in how it builds strength, control, balance and confidence in movement. So say Pam and Myra, the sisters, physiotherapists and founders […]
Build
Subdivision on steroids
Is it our imagination or is Canterbury seeing an unprecedented explosion of subdivisions? To find out, Metropol deputy editor Tamara Pitelen asked Christchurch City Council’s Head of Planning and Consents Mark Stevenson. Anyone who lives in Christchurch can see that the city is undergoing massive change. As someone who grew up here in […]
Garage guise
Now you see it, now you don’t: flush-finished and cladding-matched garage doors are the next big thing in new-build homes, gracing Canterbury winners in the Architectural Design Awards for 2026. Two homes in this year’s Canterbury shortlist for the Resene Architectural Design Awards show off the sleek, contemporary feel of flush-finished garage doors, […]
Where nature shapes the neighbourhood: Bushland Park
From organic farmland to a distinctive residential neighbourhood, Bushland Park near Westmorland, at the foot of the Port Hills, reflects nearly five decades of one man’s connection to the land. In 1979, Swiss-trained architectural designer and builder Ernst Frei purchased land in Christchurch’s south-west at the entrance to Hoon Hay Valley. His plans […]
Urban naturing: Director Te Putahi Centre for Architecture and City Making – Dr Jessica Halliday
Nature needs to be integral to our cities and urban lives. With Aotearoa’s magnificent national parks, we often conceive of nature as being ‘over there’. Of course, the fundamental truth is that we are nature – part of the living world. We both depend on it for basic survival as well as change […]
ArtScene
More than a trip down memory lane! Metropol’s Midge Ure review
Midge Ure – More than a trip down memory lane Catalogue: The Hits Tour | James Hay Theatre, Christchurch Town Hall | Thursday 22 October 2026 For many in the audience at Christchurch’s James Hay Theatre, Midge Ure’s concert was an opportunity to reconnect with the music of their youth. But this was […]
Sculpture festival 2026 – Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre
From now until 26 October, Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre has its seventh annual Sculpture Festival, featuring object art, contemporary jewellery, and outdoor sculpture by some of Aotearoa’s most exciting artists. Amust for serious collectors and art lovers, explore over 350 works by 73 artists at the Sculpture Festival. From intricate […]
Oh what a night! Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons review
The standing ovation at the end of the opening night performance said it all. This high-energy show about the life of the original four members of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons made for quite the night indeed, writes Metropol’s Nancye Pitt, who soaked up all the excitement at the Isaac Theatre Royal. […]
Steve’s scene
Long-time friend and publicist for the late, great Dolly Parton, Metropol culture columnist Steve Guest attempts to sum in words what the amazing lady meant to him. I still can’t quite believe I’m writing about Dolly in the past tense. How do you sum up more than 20 years of friendship, laughter, adventures […]
Business
Unlocking homeownership: Genesis Mortgages
Buying your first home in Christchurch is an exciting milestone, but navigating finance can feel overwhelming. Having reached its two years in business anniversary this month, Genesis Mortgages specialises in turning that mortgage finance uncertainty into a clear, achievable path for first-home buyers. Searching the internet for advice might lead potential buyers to […]
Apartment and townhouse experts – Braziers
Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s leading real estate and property investment markets, driving strong demand for premium sales and management services. Meet the professionals who deliver them. “At Apartment dept, a specialised service through Braziers, we sell and manage apartments and townhouses,” says agent Treacy Ireland. “With almost 2,000 apartments in the […]
Jordan’s corner: Alistair Bean Financial Advisers
It’s 2026 and it seems like there are so many issues, says financial adviser Jordan Bean. Where do I begin when considering what to do with my investments, KiwiSaver, and other financial decisions? It can feel daunting to make plans for your financial future when thinking about the outlook on the world. Geopolitical […]
Future unicorns: Ten new startups at Ministry of Awesome
Ten new startups have entered the Founder Catalyst villa for seven months to supercharge their growth with help from the Ministry of Awesome. Headquartered in Ōtautahi, the Ministry of Awesome equips startups with essential advisory support, expert mentorship, a vibrant community, and strategic connections to accelerate their success. Founded in 2012 by Kaila […]
