Book it in: Mickey Raes

The cooler months are a time to break out the knitting needles, jigsaw puzzles, and books, and rug up warm inside. If craft of any sort takes your fancy, in Hanmer all roads lead to Mickey Raes, a treasure trove of creative ideas. Owner Wendy Lamont has been supplying customers with their craft needs, haberdashery, […]

Hanmer for the holidays

If you are in desperate need of a spot that fosters relaxation while stimulating adventure, Hanmer Springs has it all. For a week, a weekend, or just a day, it is a quintessential Canterbury holiday location, one we will never get sick of. Serenity and leisure make up the atmosphere in Hanmer, while the thrill […]

Art for acquiring and admiring: Tait Gallery

A piece of art or original design, whatever medium it takes, is something to take pleasure in and treasure for years to come. It might be an original painting, a piece of jewellery or a sculpture that attracts you, but you will know immediately a piece that must come home with you. Galleries that exhibit […]

Locally loved cafe: Red Post Cafe

One of the true delights of a road trip is pulling up to a local cafe to sample its coffee brew and baked goods. If from the road you can see groups of people enjoying themselves in a picturesque garden, you’ll think to yourself, “This place is popular.” For some 16 years under the ownership […]

Savour the sweet moments in North Canterbury

So little do we stop to enjoy life’s sweet pleasures. The quaint towns and relaxing nature of North Canterbury make it the perfect spot to do so. Take a day trip and embrace slow living. You’ll return home refreshed and content after leaning into the little joys in life. Browse the businesses Find yourself immersed […]

Welcome to Wigram

Christchurch has numerous suburban treasures within easy travelling distance, and Wigram is one of them. Just seven kilometres southwest of central Christchurch, this vibrant area is home to select shops, cafes, artisan breweries, day spas, and much more. Resident, commercial, and industrial properties abound, while historically Wigram has an interesting aviation background. Recreational parks are […]

Destination Dunedin

Dunedin and its surrounds have so much to offer, that it may seem like there is too much choice. The city’s heritage, shopping, and art precincts, plus nature’s overflowing biodiversity and scenery, make it a fabulous addition to your summer getaway schedule. These Metropol suggestions may help you plan your next trip own that way. […]

The best summer yet – in Kaikōura

This summer, write a checklist to ensure you maximise your enjoyment of the warmer weather. Kaikōura, two-and-a-half hours drive from Christchurch, is an exciting and adventure-filled destination for an outstanding summer holiday. Take a look at our Kaikōura summer checklist, and tick off all 10 items to create truly special moments with friends or family. […]

Happening in Hanmer

A typical tourist spot, Hanmer Springs is also so much more. Between water and land, the Canterbury-favourite destination has plenty to fill your calendar and your cup. Start with a pre-Christmas weekend trip to the Alpine Marathon on 2 December. A great challenge to start your summer, it’s an energetic way to enthusiastically kick off […]

Truth or dare Waimakariri

We’ve all played this game at some point, as and when the thrill of the unknown speaks to the adventurer in each of us. Players either share a secret or are challenged to an inventive dare. Notwithstanding its mischievous overtones, Truth or Dare is a playful call to action, that many of the thriving towns […]