From the Editor: 21 January 2021

In the last issue of 2020, I used this column to write about the year that was. Reflecting on those simpler, pre-pandemic times, I wrote: “We had no idea what was coming”     Re-reading those words before starting this editorial for the first Metropol issue of 2021, it struck me how the same sentiment […]

From the Editor: 17 December 2020

As we send our last magazine of 2020 to print, it seems hard to believe this time last year we were unaware of a mysterious illness which was about to dramatically redefine the months ahead.     It’s fair to say: We had no idea what was coming. While much of the world succumbed to […]

From the Editor: 26 November 2020

Another fortnight, another opportunity to showcase the talented people and businesses which make up our region. This issue we have some incredible stories from all corners of the region which highlight, celebrate and champion those who give our locale its unique and special character.     On page 16, we learn about the inspiring musical […]

From the Editor: 12 November 2020

We’re here. The tail end of 2020 has arrived, and those Christmas lights at the end of the tunnel are starting to glow brighter. So, too, are the longer days and anticipation for the season of socialising and celebration.     In Canterbury, the commencement of silly season is traditionally signalled by Cup Week. An […]

From the Editor: 29 October 2020

Just as this issue heads to print, we head into the long weekend. For many, Labour Weekend marks the home straight to summer. Perhaps it is your yardstick for when it’s time to head to the beach, lake or bach. Or, maybe it’s an opportunity to slow down and take a breather before that final […]

From the Editor: 15 October 2020

And just like that, we’re halfway through October. Which in Canterbury can only mean one thing: Cup Week is right around the corner.   While this extraordinary year’s festivities will look different, sans A&P Show and with pandemic-induced capacity reductions – there is no denying we could all use some celebrations to look forward to. […]

From the Editor: 01 October 2020

In case you hadn’t noticed, it is spring. The blossoms are here (and, so too, are the associated photos), daylight saving has arrived, and the temperatures are creeping up.   As cliché as it may be, there really is nothing quite like the invigorating energy and possibility of spring. It is hard not to feel […]

From the Editor: 17 September 2020

We’re living in a uniquely stressful time. Between the fluctuating number of community Covid-19 transmissions, oscillating government alert levels and a general air of uncertainty – the bright side can seem hard to find.   At Metropol we’re all about celebrating and supporting the community, and this raison d’être has taken on more relevance in […]

Metropol Editor Melinda Collins

From the Editor: 06 August 2020

“You’ll miss the best things if you keep your eyes shut” – Dr Seuss   I have interviewed and written about some of this city’s most passionate and inspiring people over the past seven years working across Canterbury Rebuild and Metropol magazines. But it is perhaps the words below that are some of the most […]

Editor’s Perspective: 09 July 2020

“Just living is not enough… one must have sunshine, freedom and a little flower” Hans Christian Anderson     We’ve just waved goodbye to the gloomiest month of weather in more than two decades. Yes June, we’re talking about you and since you’ve given us the least amount of recorded sunshine hours in more than […]