Editor’s Note: Building a future

A recent survey has shown that building and construction costs have “normalised” (see page 68), which is good news. Canterbury has a plentiful number of construction companies, architects, structural engineers, and clients associated with the building industry, not to mention their subcontractors. From new commercial, civic, and residential builds to renovations and refresh projects, the […]

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, […]

Say it through flowers: Victoria Florists

Whatever life throws at us, from its highest to its lowest moments, it is often the gift of flowers that touches the heart more intensely than the spoken word. To know that we are not forgotten, and more importantly, that we are loved, brings the greatest happiness. Especially on Mother’s Day, there’s no better feeling […]

Working together: Leann Watson of Business Canterbury

The last few weeks have been busy again as we advocate on behalf of Canterbury businesses. Recently, Ali Adams (CEO, ChristchurchNZ) and I flew to Wellington for a whirlwind tour of the big business ministries including MBIE and MFAT. The purpose of the trip was to reiterate Canterbury’s position as a powerhouse regional economy – […]

The Iron Triangle: EBI Business Improvement Specialists

Yes, it’s possible to have a business delivering fast, affordable, and good products and services. Challenges arise, however, due to the trade-offs involved, commonly referred to as the “Iron Triangle”. This concept suggests that improving one aspect may compromise the others, for instance, offering a service quickly and at a low cost will impact the […]

Winter wining and dining

Fresh wine and delicious food are on many lips when asking what North Canterbury is known for. Lock in a warmer day with the family, whether that be with work family or your own, and venture north to the wine region. There is more to enjoy than just a wonderful day for your taste buds, […]

Inspiring tomorrow’s generation with Julie Calder

Developing young minds, and instilling strong foundations has always been such a rewarding career for Selwyn House School principal Julie Calder that she wouldn’t consider any other. Building those strong foundations during the early years is pivotal for academic success in the future, says Julie. “As a full primary school, our unwavering commitment to these […]

A homestead with heart: Ilam Homestead

We have a secret to share with you; it’s a gem of a venue – Ilam Homestead. Tucked away at 87 Ilam Road, it’s a venue with sweeping lawns to the river, stunning rhododendron gardens to walk through, and old-style charm from the early 1900s. There’s room for every type of function: cocktails for 20-30 […]

People, places, photos

Freeze in time one of the best days of your life, all with a fabulous photographer. To remember the people, the places, and the intimate moments that you shared throughout your day. Capturing their memories, many just-married Cantabrians have called on the expertise of local photographers to forever remember their weddings. Between the planned shots […]

Editor’s note: Happily ever after

Twice a year, Metropol publishes its popular wedding supplement, featuring many of the local retailers who support this lucrative industry. Bringing bridal parties and wedding suppliers together is a marriage made in heaven for many parties. Ten years ago, the wedding industry in New Zealand was estimated to be worth $58 million annually. Now, a […]