Metropol 8 August 2024 by Metropol

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Editor's Note

EDITOR LYNDA PAPESCH

Jumping on to NZ’s property ladder

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EDITOR

All too often we hear tales of doom and gloom about property a ordability, and how people cannot buy their first home. The operative words here should be “some people” cannot a ord to buy their first home. Across New Zealand, young people are finding ways and the means to step foot on to the property ladder.

A colleague and her partner, both aged 21, recently bought their ﬁrst home together. It was also heartening to recently read about two 19-year-olds who bought a $720,000 house in their home town, Taupō. Both work in supermarkets, and were able to save the $160,000 deposit by doing so. They are not alone. Teenagers all around New Zealand are foregoing fun times and unnecessary spending to instead

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Lynda Papesch editor@metros.co.nz Ph: 021 073-2786

DEPUTY EDITOR: Nina Tucker deputy.editor@metros.co.nz

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CONTRIBUTORS: Barry White, Céline Gibson, Cheryl Colley, Claudia Kaltenstadler, Denise Robertson, Getty Images, Hannah Brown, Jane Wyles, Jessica Allen, Joseph Harper, Lorraine Quinn, Louise Mackenzie, Nat Donald, Rhonda Mitchell.

save their money, not for a rainy day, but for their future homes. Their disposable income goes into saving for a deposit on a substantial home, rather than on fast, ﬂashy cars, labelled clothing, and boozy nights out with their mates.

In some cases, family and friends also pool resources to buy a home together. Once bought, ﬂatmates and boarders help pay the mortgage.

Occasional treats and the odd night out are essential, however not every weekend. Thinking carefully about how you spend your discretional income will help grow your savings, and get you started.

It’s not just buying a family home, it’s also a great way to enter the investment property market.

Metropol is printed on PEFC-certiﬁed (No: 40-31-33) paper, from forests that are managed in line with the strictest environmental, social and economic requirements. Certiﬁcation provides assurance the paper we use is from sustainably managed forests; a forest that will be around for generations to come.

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Metropol is published every fortnight and Metropol Build is published every month. It is delivered to the best addresses in the Christchurch and Canterbury region. It is also available from many selected stores, malls, stands, waiting rooms and o ces. Metropol is subject to copyright in its entirety. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission will result in legal action. Every e ort is made to ensure the accuracy and correctness of the information contained within the magazine, however Metros Publishing Group (NZ) Ltd can accept no liability for the accuracy of all the information. The information and views expressed anywhere in these magazines are not necessarily the views or opinion of Metros Publishing Group (NZ) Ltd, its editorial contributors, freelancers, associates or information providers.

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Timeless Elegance

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the strawberries

Dear diary, I’m thriving in my new home, just like the strawberries

Love life on your terms.

At Summerset Prebbleton there are fewer chores and more choice. So if you’re done with gardening, you can hang up your gloves. But if you’re a big fan of getting amongst the flowerbeds, there’s a community of green-thumbs just waiting to meet you.

Love the life you choose.

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HEADFIRST

With a recognised name in racing fashion, June has a reputation and is held to a high standard. It’s not something she’s scared of, as she focuses her inﬂuence and expertise on expanding and enabling the industry.

“I support fashion and horse racing events around the country when I can.” Like a guiding sister, “I help ladies who are just getting into fashion with advice and suitability on winter and summer fashions,” June says, while also focusing on ideas of her own.

“I have spent up to $1000 on my hat just to get what I wanted, and as little as $80.”

June manages a Facebook page, Millinery and Racewear For Sale New Zealand, where people can engage in their love for fashion and share racing wear.

A life of beauty does not come devoid of pain. In December 2023, June lost her mother and best friend. “I’m still coming to

terms with it. She was my whole world.” With an amazing group of friends and her work in the male-dominated farming sector where she “loves the banter”, June is always lifted when she needs to be.

There may have been an invisible string tying June to Addington all along. A location she always kept close to her heart, June says, as she recites her favourite looks. “My ﬁrst one would be at Addington where I won my ﬁrst sash.”

In her role, she hopes to see the annual event become a destination for racing fashion, similar to the Melbourne Cup, with “all the style and glamour.” June envisions it evolving into an entirely inclusive and diverse event. “I would like to make it more accessible to all shapes and sizes, so anyone can enter and have a chance of winning,” she explains.

CONCEPT TO COMPLETION:

June’s racing fashion process

She will always start with a dress, whether custom-made or ready-to-wear.

Second comes the hat, “and I’m very picky when it comes to hats,” June laughs. “I have spent up to $1000 on my hat just to get what I wanted, and as little as $80. A well-made hat makes you feel great.”

Big, bright colours are what catch June’s eye. “Anything that stands out, that’s me,” she says. She unearths inspiration in the collections of Dior, and other brands producing beautiful couture. Then, June uses Pinterest to collate and reﬁne her ideas. “Technology has made it so much easier to come up with the look you are after. The hard bit is putting it all together, it always takes longer than you think.” Between a seamstress, milliner, and June, the process is extensive.

She tells me that racing fashion does not need to be expensive. She reﬂects on winning her ﬁrst sash at Addington in a $115 dress from ASOS. “As long as you put together a great look and follow the theme of the event, you should be good.”

When the vision comes to life, June admires it from head to toe. “Without seeing anyone else’s outfit, I feel like this is the one, this is good enough to win,” June smiles. Imagine a dopamine rush, the release of excitement from a look you are in love with. “Sometimes, how you feel in an outfit is as important as the outfit itself,” she says.

Ashlei Face to face Sc

Ashleigh Scott holds a world of expertise in luxurious skincare experiences in her head, and all the passion in her heart. Metropol Deputy Editor Nina Tucker caught up with the skincare specialist and founder of renowned brand, The Facialist.

She was just as I expected. Bubbly and genuine, but eager not to slow down for a second. It’s the kind of ﬁre you would predict from someone with so much prowess in her arena. Even so, Ashleigh leads a life that exists entirely around her family–or her new sauna. “We try to have those moments to reset and recharge,” Ashleigh says, prioritising any free time with her family creating special memories, and keeping up with exercise.

ESTATE OPPORTUNITY

Some days, free time doesn’t come often. “It’s pretty chaotic. There’s that cliche that no day is the same, but it is quite true,” she admits. The variety is something she loves about the job. Product development, future planning, training team members and working in the salon are on rotation, and it means o ce admin is never boring, more or less a welcomed time to catch up.

Ashleigh has lived through years of the transformative beauty industry, from her teens to time in London, before bringing her skills home and opening her salon, The Facialist, now a mega brand in New Zealand skincare. Her second venture, Noody, launched this year and was the answer to her children’s chronic eczema.

Laughing, Ashleigh tells me she’s the wrong person to ask about juggling two businesses and two young children. “It’s pure chaos. It’s not always juggled well.” As many will know, being a parent is often making your children the top priority. “I think you just go where you need to go,” she explains. After that, it’s a juggle of whichever business has a longer to-do list.

An established team in The Facialist, and a hands-on husband who she co-founded Noody with, means the ﬂexibility is there when needed.

As well as being their mother, Ashleigh was just what her children needed when they began su ering from chronic eczema. She felt responsible, as a mother and skincare expert, to ﬁnd a solution. “It really held them back,” she says, hindering their growth and development. “Given my background, I knew what their skin needed to be healthy and thrive, but I struggled to ﬁnd that on the market,” Ashleigh remembers.

She also considered the aesthetic appeal, only seeing products with uninspiring packaging. “We wanted to create something that was engaging for children, and that you would be happy to have sitting in your bathroom.”

Since then, Ashleigh has helped many families tackle some of the torment of similar skin conditions. In its 10th year of business, The Facialist is hitting heights too, yet Ashleigh isn’t forgetting the e ort and hours it took to get there. “It has been years of working towards that and building a strong reputation, a strong customer base.”

Upholding trust with a team of trained professionals is something Ashleigh gives a lot of time to. Managing cash ﬂow is one of the biggest challenges for Ashleigh as a small business owner. “We are completely self-funded, so everything we put into the business we keep reinvesting.”

self-care, Ashleigh is proud that hers is one of knowledge and experience. “I’ve worked with skin, hands-on, for over 15 years,” she conﬁrms. It can be overwhelming, trawling through the hundreds of brands to ﬁnd the appropriate one, and Ashleigh agrees. “I don’t know how, as a consumer, you would navigate that. Packaging is getting crazier and crazier. It’s cluttered and noisy.”

“It sounds corny, but where I am right now is exactly where I would have imagined I would be.”

Holistic skincare is why Ashleigh’s brands stand out. “We look at the skin, we look at the body as a whole, because the skin is a true reﬂection of what’s happening inside the body.” Diet, hormones, stress, digestion, and sleep all play into it, she says. Aside from a luxurious facial and equally gorgeous products to go with it, Ashleigh encourages looking into deeper problems too, with recommendations such as diet shifts or lifestyle changes, or avoiding potential trigger foods.

Aside from the chaos of launching products and the relief when they do well, winning one of the New Zealand Best in Beauty awards is something Ashleigh looks back on with satisfaction. “It was such a cool moment to be recognised as an industry leader.” Deservingly so, because she imagined the salon experience into products that could be accessible nationwide. As new beauty brands overﬂow the industry with the surge in

The passion in her voice tells me there is no denying she loves what she does–and she knew she would always get there. “It sounds corny, but where I am right now is exactly where I would have imagined I would be.”

Ashleigh has her sights set ﬁrmly on growth. “I’m so focused on what we’re working towards. It’s genuinely such a joy,” she remarks. Bigger things are coming, and skincare fanatics are ready for it.

Work, play, a place to stay

Accommodation should be the easy part: easy to locate, easy transport to and from, easy to ﬁnd good food and supplies, easy to prepare in before you face the main event.

With Selwyn District developing as a mecca for weddings, sporting events, and conferences, the team at Lincoln Motel have become specialists in providing accommodation, whatever the nature of your get together. Set in a quiet position in the heart of the village, the motel is a short walk to cafés, restaurants, and bars. Local shuttle and bus companies can also transport people between the various venues in the district and the motel.

“We have 21 modern, contemporary, and beautifully presented units – studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, as well as access units and a one-bedroom spa bath unit – perfect for pampering a bride and groom,” says co-owner Craig Beswick. “The bedrooms can also be conﬁgured to cater to larger numbers for sports events.” With years of experience, the team have hospitality down to a ﬁne art. “We want guests to feel welcome and as if their unit is just like home,” says Craig.

MAMMA MIA!

The stage will be set, and this highly anticipated production unveiled. With the smash-hit musical extravaganza, audiences will be captivated as Showbiz Christchurch presents MAMMA MIA!, at the Isaac Theatre Royal from 27 September to 12 October 2024.

MAMMA MIA! is a jukebox musical featuring the timeless songs of the legendary Swedish pop group ABBA. Set on a picturesque Greek island, the story follows the journey of a young brideto-be, her mother, and three possible fathers, all against the backdrop of ABBA’s unforgettable hits. With its heartwarming tale and infectious music, MAMMA MIA! has become one of the world’s most beloved and successful musicals.

Showbiz Christchurch, known for its highquality productions and commitment to bringing world-class theatre to Ōtautahi, is thrilled to present this exhilarating show on the stage of the Isaac Theatre Royal featuring an alllocal cast. Audiences can expect a dazzling production featuring talented performers, stunning set design, and choreography that will

A leading theatre producer, Showbiz Christchurch is dedicated to producing exceptional musical theatre experiences for audiences in Christchurch and beyond. With a rich history of successful productions, the team commits to delivering top-quality entertainment that engages and inspires. How can you resist it?

have them dancing in the aisles.

“This show has a special place in the hearts of audiences worldwide, and we are dedicated to delivering a production that will live up to the high expectations associated with this beloved musical,” says Showbiz Christchurch General Manager Craig Ogilvie. “We are beyond excited to bring MAMMA MIA! to the Isaac Theatre Royal.”

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketek. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic live on stage.

About Showbiz Christchurch:

www.showbiz.org.nz/mamma-mia

Are you ready to make the most of the vibrant spring market?

Here’s why selling with us is your best move:

1. Early Bird Advantage: Get ahead of the competition by listing your property before the spring rush. Be one of the first to capture the attention of eager buyers!

2. Expert Guidance: Our team of seasoned professionals will guide you through every step of the selling process, ensuring a smooth and stressfree experience.

3. Maximum Exposure: We use cutting-edge marketing strategies to showcase your property to a wide audience, both online and offline.

4. Top Dollar Results: Our proven track record of securing top dollar for our clients means you’ll get the best return on your investment.

5. Springtime Appeal: With blooming flowers and great weather, spring is the ideal time to showcase your property’s full potential.

Please help

Now we need to build a new hospice,” says Sue Sutherland of Nurse Maude, who is leading the fundraising to make it possible.

For the past 15 years the Nurse Maude Hospice has operated out of the ground floor of the old Nurse Maude Hospital,” she says, “and while the quality of care remains exceptional it was never designed, or intended, for end-of-life care.”

The new hospice, with dedicated areas for children and ensuite rooms with garden views will also include family areas and be a place where family pets are welcome to visit.

“The cost of building a new hospice is around $15 million,” says Sue, “and thanks to some incredibly generous donors we are nearly halfway there, but we need the help of the community to get it across the line.”

“Nurse Maude has always been about people, not profit. Our commitment to providing care to some of the most vulnerable in our community started nearly 130 years ago in the streets of Christchurch when Nurse Maude established what was to become the country’s first district nursing service.”

To Donate: Scan the QR code, or visit www.nursemaude.org.nz/donate or at any of our hospice shops. Thank you for your support.

Out & about in

North C terbury

Time spent in North Canterbury will always feel close to home, thanks to the presence of welcoming locals. Choose from Metropol’s August event picks.

At night

Star gazing

Telescope shows and guided sky tours bring some brightness to a cold winter. At Oxford Observatory, witness neighbouring galaxies, star clusters, emission nebulae, and more incredible sights until 14 September.

Escape to Broadway

Embark on a musical journey with all the best hits from movie scores and music from hit Broadway shows. The Rangiora RSA Club Band presents The Movies to Broadway, a concert to be adored by all at the Rangiora Town Hall Auditorium.

During the day

Kaiapoi

Saturday Market

Take home fresh produce, meet the locals, and engage in a fun not-forproﬁt community market. With a strong focus on local artisans and their products, all proﬁts return to the market and wider community. If you are searching for something more unique than a typical farmer’s market, choose from North Canterbury’s range of creative markets.

North Canterbury Creative Market

This market hosts over 80 stalls ﬁlled with the goods and products of talented artisans. Think creativity and community, it is a place where you can support local and ﬁnd wonderful pieces to keep or gift. Enjoy the next market at Kaiapoi Club on 1 September.

Rangiora Church Street Market

On the ﬁrst Saturday of each month, head to St John’s Anglican Church for barista co ee, homemade treats, and a range of creative stalls. From 9.30am to 1pm, browse local goods and make connections.

What’s on

Find your next family outing or date night with all there is to see and do in Canterbury.

MID AUGUST ONWARDS

9 – 11 AUG: ARTS CANTERBURY ART SHOW AT THE CASHMERE CLUB

See 80+ local artists exhibit at this fundraiser for Arts Canterbury Inc. Purchase tickets for Friday’s opening night from Eventbrite, or attend Saturday and Sunday with a gold coin entry. Image: Debbie Scott, Armagh over Avon. artscanterbury.org.nz

10 AUG – 14 SEP: FUN HOME

Coming to the Court Theatre, Fun Home is a three-time Tony award-winning musical, a heartfelt story of seeing your parents through grown up eyes, based on Alison Bechdel’s novel. courttheatre.org.nz

15 – 17 AUG: DONNA BROOKBANKS, GREEN FINGERED

A keen gardener goes viral on Tik Tok and is o ered a television show to bring her knowledge to the masses. Can she pull it o ? Find out at Little Andromeda. littleandromeda.co.nz

27 AUG: LOST THE PLOT! THE WORD QUIZ NIGHT

Put your knowledge to the test with the WORD Quiz Night, for an evening of fun, laughter, and literary shenanigans. wordchristchurch.co.nz

31 AUG: GLAMMED UP FOR A HAND UP GALA

Dress up and enjoy ﬁne dining, entertainment, and charity auctions in support of Kairos Food Rescue, a not-for-proﬁt that rescues food and brings it to those in need. It is all glam, set in the beautiful Great Hall at the Chateau on the Park, a DoubleTree by Hilton. glammedup.co.nz

27 SEP – 12 OCT: MAMMA MIA!

A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. Trip to the Greek Islands, listen to iconic ABBA hits, and follow this enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship. It’s a walk down the aisle you will never forget. showbiz.org.nz

The Riccarton

AUGUST FRI-SAT

QUAKE CITY: FREE ENTRY

10-11

Learn about stories of survival and resilience, the widespread destruction and rescue e orts, and the recovery and rebuild of the Canterbury Earthquakes at the Canterbury Museum’s hugely popular Quake City exhibit. canterburymuseum.com

Coming later

2 OCT: AN AUDIENCE WITH DAVID WALLIAMS

Prepare for an outrageously cheeky evening with beloved British comedian David Walliams, where he will share a glimpse behind the curtains of his career and characters. premier.ticketek.co.nz

is raising funds to provide better access, safer tracks, improved fire protection, and to more effectively tell the story of this

The project will cost around $2.4 million.

Your kind donation at the following link will help preserve this nationally significant historical site: www.riccartonhouse.co.nz

For further information contact Shona Willis - manager@riccartonhouse.co.nz

We need your help to protect, conserve and enhance Pūtaringamotu Riccarton Bush. Pūtaringamotu Riccarton Bush is a 7.8-hectare predator-free remnant Kahikatea Forest situated just 3km from the city centre of Christchurch.

Bush Trust

very special place.

A

of Danish

The fact she knows her show-stopping outﬁt won’t be found anywhere else only adds to her aura of conﬁdence as she sashays past admirers.

Kjole Style is a destination fashion boutique dedicated to sourcing labels, predominantly Danish and European, that are solely exclusive to the store.

Danish labels, such as Soaked in Luxury, B. Young, Fransa, ICHI, Lolly’s Laundry, and exquisite Danish jewellery label Hultquist, are just some of the gorgeous Scandinavian brands showcased.

“Soaked in Luxury’s new spring collection colours, such as the Corinne blazer in Surf Spray, or the Tuesday jumper in Sea Jet, look as amazing as they sound,” says owner Stephanie Suckling. The cream of Antipodean designers is not forgotten either.

Australian brand, Dea The Label, for instance, underlines how a black double-breasted leather blazer is the ultimate wardrobe staple – timelessly elegant and ideal for interseasonal layering.

New Zealand labels, such as Verge, and Cashews, dive into spring in snazzy sportswear and luxurious casual wear, while the Bioko top, Muse satin skirt, and Vanotti tunic from NES deliver ultimate drop-dead glamour.

To enter a room wearing something sensational, guaranteed to turn heads, makes a woman feel incredible. kjole.co.nz

In ation

falls

Statistics New Zealand has reported a drop to 3.3% in annual inﬂation, almost halved when compared with June 2023 (6%).

This fall in inﬂation is welcome, but it is being driven by international factors rather than domestic actions. There are also costs for working people that continue to increase rapidly,” said NZCTU Economist Craig Renney.

“This data is also weaker than expected – suggesting problems within the wider economy. It supports other data which implies that we might be heading back into falls in economic output.”

The falls in inﬂation were driven by reductions in the price of food, particularly fruit and vegetables. There were also falls in the price of furniture, household

appliances, and the cost of second-hand vehicles, suggesting a lack of demand in the economy and a lack of consumer conﬁdence.

Falls were recorded in IT equipment and international airfares, again suggesting that demand for these discretionary goods may be falling.

Rental prices continues to increase rapidly, rising 4.8% annually, the fastest rate of growth for 17 years, which is as far back as the data goes. Local Authority Rates increased 9.8%. Insurance prices increased 14% annually, led by growth in property insurance (24%) and car insurance (24%). Petrol prices rose 14.7%.

Using an experienced Business Broker makes selling a business straightforward. The Broker firstly provides a written current market appraisal of the business, using recent financial information, and comparing with recent sales data for similar business types.

Once the appraisal range is accepted, an Agency Agreement will be completed. The Broker will then draft an overview of the business (which will be checked for accuracy etc. by the seller).

The seller also requires Anti-Money Laundering approval. Once approved, the business can be marketed and advertised.

With any enquiry received for the business a Confidentiality Agreement needs to be signed – no information is provided until this is done, and until the Broker is satisfied the enquirer is a genuine prospect.

After supply of the information, the Broker handles questions from the prospect, referring to the seller for answers.

The Broker arranges for the prospect to view the business at a suitable time and will assist the prospect to prepare an offer.

The Broker will negotiate between the parties to bring a satisfactory conclusion and will assist with the handover process to ensure settlement occurs smoothly.

Athol McCully and Cecilia Xiao

Athol and Cecilia are experienced Business Brokers as a part of New Zealand’s largest team of NAI Harcourts Business Brokers. If you are seeking to buy or sell a business contact Athol or Cecilia.

Athol McCully and Cecilia Xiao are experienced Business Brokers as a part of New Zealand’s largest team of NAI Harcourts Business Brokers. If you are seeking to buy or sell a business contact them today.

Athol and Cecilia are experienced Business Brokers as a part of New Zealand’s largest team of NAI Harcourts Business Brokers. If you are seeking to buy or sell a business contact Athol or Cecilia.

Athol 0274 338 052 Cecilia 021 0256 3311

Athol 0274 338 052

Cecilia 021 0256 3311

Construction cash ﬂow headaches

WHITE FOX & JONES ASSOCIATE - LITIGATION AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION

KATE ANDERSON

Is your construction business using the Payment Claim regime to your advantage?

Disputes over invoicing disrupt business cashﬂow and have the potential to derail building projects. The Construction Contracts Act 2002 Payment Claim regime is designed to streamline payments and reduce disputes by use of a “pay now, argue later” system. In essence, Payment Claims are modiﬁed invoices containing key information required by the Act so the recipient can identify what work the invoice relates to.

If a recipient of a Payment Claim disputes the amount claimed, they must respond with a Payment Schedule within a certain timeframe. If they do not, the issuer can recover the claimed amount as a debt due, meaning the recipient cannot argue that the claim is disputed when debt recovery action is taken. The issuer can also suspend work pending payment by issuing notice. If the recipient does respond with a Payment Schedule, the issuer may make an adjudication claim - a fast-tracked alternative to a court proceeding.

These options are typically faster and cheaper than standard enforcement options and can be severe for the recipient. This is why strict compliance by issuers with the requirements for Payment Claims under the Act is essential.

It is worth reviewing your business practices and your invoicing process to ensure you are taking advantage of the Act and complying with it. Often only small adjustments are required to utilise it e ectively – and save future headaches.

The White Fox & Jones team are experienced with implementing the Payment Claim process and responding to issues under the Act. Get in contact with us if you would like help navigating your way through the complexities to protect your business.

Winning the recovery

BUSINESS DIRECTOR & PARTNER

Signs are that the economy is on a slow path to recovery. Just as spring always follows winter, it will recover. The key question smart businesses are asking now is not only how to survive today, but how to position themselves to get ahead when those good times arrive.

Past recessions have shown that not every business will survive, and for many, sales and profitability won’t return to pre-recession levels. However, some businesses flourish post-recession, achieving better sales and profitability than before and significantly outperforming their industry rivals. This demonstrates that merely waiting for good times to return isn’t enough. To recover and thrive post-recession, businesses need to make smart decisions and strategic choices and execute now.

Businesses typically adopt one of two broad strategies when faced with environmental changes and threats:

Defensive: Protecting current assets, minimising losses, and cutting costs to survive the present.

O ensive: Aiming for future growth by investing in assets, developing new products, attracting new customers, and enhancing marketing e orts.

Currently, much of the prevailing advice leans toward defensive strategies, encouraging businesses to ride out the slow period and “hold on until 2025.” However, this approach may not yield the expected results for many companies. Research shows that businesses adopting an overly defensive, siege mentality—drastically cutting costs and sta , and focusing solely on loss minimisation and survival—tend not to fare well post-recession.

The businesses most likely to perform well and outperform competitors after a recession follow a pragmatic, balanced strategy. While cost-cutting is necessary to survive today, investment is equally essential to ensure sales return and spur growth tomorrow. Managing both aspects simultaneously is crucial to emerging as a post-recession winner.

A winning strategy involves selective defensive moves focused on improving operational e ciency rather than simply slashing costs; greater productivity, a lower cost base, and higher service quality today provides even greater beneﬁts in the recovery. O ensive moves need to be well-considered, aligned, and integrated with business objectives. This includes maintaining the core business and exploring new opportunities by investing in assets, new markets, customer groups, and marketing.

For a no-obligation discussion on navigating the current slow-growth recovery and succeeding in the coming good times, contact me.

MURRAY DEMPSEY

Big property market changes are here

July certainly started with a bang.

We saw the Bright-line changes come into play, DTIs introduced and LVR restrictions loosened at all the banks. These opportunities are making the market more accessible for both ﬁrst home buyers and property investors.

If you are looking at purchasing your ﬁrst home, now is certainly the time. As interest rates are predicated to fall towards the end of the year/start of next year, buying now means you can expect lower house prices combined with imminent reduction in your interest rates.

As the market heats up, property investors will be competing with those ﬁrst home buyers as well, so it is best to get in now before the market gets increasingly crowded. If you are a property investor, with the changes introduced it is more appealing than ever to purchase your ﬁrst investment.

The $550-$750k mark in Christchurch is certainly ready for more buyers, and we can help you get the best deal on your home loan.

Get in touch with our team at www.nzmortgages.co.nz or call us at 0800 100 300 to make the most of the market’s changes.

women and wealth.

Shiree and Unicia understand that seeking financial advice is a deeply personal experience. They know how to listen and take great care in understanding y your unique circumstances, values and dreams. Talk to Shiree and Unicia about y your personal financial plan.

Shiree Hembrow Senior Financial Adviser shiree.hembrow@phwealth.co.nz 027 289 1563

12/75 Peterborough Street Christchurch 8013

phwealth.co.nz

Unicia Veer

Financial Adviser unicia.veer@phwealth.co.nz 021 0254 4735

Independent, Specialist Property Management Experts

We’re here to manage and maximise your investment property, so you don’t have to.

Let us take the stress away.

Revenue leakagecostly

Fleet operators are losing thousands in revenue due to unauthorised discounts, according to data science ﬁrm FOYI.

According to the company’s analysis, ﬂeet organisations routinely fail to account for all costs when invoicing and provide excessive discounts, leading to signiﬁcant revenue leakage.

“Revenue leakage from poor pricing is rampant for fleet operators but often goes unnoticed,” says Sidharth Macherla, Principal Data Scientist at FOYI. “Our findings show fleet operators are quite literally gifting away profits through sloppy pricing processes.”

FOYI examines ﬂeet organisations’ pricing data, historic invoices, and discount policies to pinpoint instances where ancillary costs were missed, pricing guidelines weren’t followed, or discounts exceeded authorised levels. Their data-driven insights calculate the total revenue leaked and lost proﬁt opportunity.

Macherla says that between 3-5% of all invoices contain pricing inaccuracies of anywhere between 5-12%, representing a signiﬁcant impact on the bottom line for Kiwi ﬂeet operators of all sizes.

“From companies we’ve analysed, thousands of dollars are falling through the cracks annually from revenue leakage,” says Macherla. “Plugging these pricing leaks is the fastest way for operators to boost proﬁts without increasing sales.”

Common factors contributing to revenue leakage include software applications that facilitate the unauthorised editing of pricing documents, sta assumptions about proﬁtability, and manual auditing processes prone to errors.

According to professional services network Ernst & Young, 1 to 5% of EBITA ﬂows unnoticed out of companies because they do not have their contract management and payment follow-up processes in order.

FOYI recommends a strategic approach to address revenue leakage, including quantifying the extent of leakage, identifying areas of disproportionate impact, engaging stakeholders, and implementing targeted interventions.

31 August 2024

“Glammed up for a Hand up” is a Black-Tie beneﬁt in support of the work of Kairos Food Rescue. The evening will include a plated 3 course meal, beverages, live entertainment and fundraising auctions.

in partnership with Doubletree by Hilton, Chateau on the Park

www.glammedup.co.nz

fashion & beauty

EYES ON THE OFFICE SHIRT

BY NINA TUCKER

Thanks to both local and international designers, the oﬃce shirt is consistently transforming and improving—there are options for any work wardrobe, no matter the aesthetic.

Caitlin Crisp’s iconic Time Warp top saw a surge in keyhole styles locally, while the raging bow trend is opening doors for tie-back tops, tie-up knits, and bow-accentuated blouses.

Simple additions like these elevate an o ce shirt.

Frills, ﬂounces, pu s, and pleats are too coming in hot across shirting styles, arriving into New Zealand fashion after making waves on runways overseas. Luckily for our wardrobes, these accents mean your wardrobe can transition smoothly from o ce wear to evening glam. Pair with maxi skirts and suit pants for work, and add jeans or statement pants with heels into the rotation for outside-of-work activities.

Go back to basics with a patterned or plain button-down or spruce it up slightly with a collar or some cinching on the sleeves or waist. Thanks to all these options, a work look never needs to be boring.

Eddie blue sky stripe shirt, RUBY

Styling by size

BY NINA TUCKER

Then, there are those of us who must trip to the tailor with each new piece we buy, or track down a store that caters to added fabric on pants and sleeves.

Proportions are a critical aspect of shopping and styling. It can be the thing that makes oversized look ﬁtted, or far more oversized than it was meant to be. Dressing for shape is important, and there are many resources out there to determine more ﬂattering styles for pear, triangle, rectangle, or apple body types. Yet for some, height is an increasingly demanding proportion to navigate, especially as oversized clothing continues to trend.

The beautiful Juliette Hogan and Alice Feutz from Juliette Hogan demonstrate this concept perfectly. In their ‘Playing with Proportions’ edit, the pair try on the Bernadette blazer, Peak Tuxe jacket, and Francesca pant. Juliette at 172cm, and Alice 154cm, and despite their similar aesthetics and style preferences, the clothes look and sit di erently. Note how the blazer transforms the silhouette between Juliette and Alice’s frames.

Next time you take to the shops, consider size in a di erent way, like the length of your legs and torso. Make a point to look at how di erent garments will ﬂatter your features. Remember, clothes are For those genetically blessed humans,

business

CURATED BY NINA TUCKER

Business and conference wear should never force you to set aside your style.

Combine simplicity with conﬁdence. Tone it back with high-quality, chic pieces, and work in the colours you love and feel great in. Add some edge with a sleek shoe or statement bag and adopt the aura of Elle Woods.

First impressions count, and at conferences, these come often. Nothing says ‘boss lady’ more than a matching set or pantsuit—and the bonus is that they make for an easy morning outﬁt choice. Take inspiration from our top business wear picks.

Details: Activation jacket and Station pant Find Me: taylor

www.cutclothing.co.nz

www.thewoolcompany.co.nz

www.sophiedivettjewellery.co.nz

www.theﬁttingroom.co.nz

www.bellezaboutique.co.nz

www.estiloboutique.co.nz

CUT Clothing, the Remarkable dress by newly-stocked brand Charlie Jane is

The Wool Company, style a black merino possum sweater with a pop of colour and warmth with neck

Belleza Boutique, add colour to your wardrobe with the Drawn To You dress in Fiesta. Locally designed in Christchurch. 4. Sophie Divett Jewellery, Eluo ring set with a green peridot, August’s birthstone. 5. The Fitting Room, fun and a little bit wild, the Sea Level ‘Congo’ Frill One Piece. 6. Estilo Boutique, crafted from pure linen, the Senita dress blends comfort and style. Its ﬁtted bodice seamlessly transitions

August is the beginning of new season styles and stock, fresh to the front door of this sweet boutique.

As the next season creeps around the corner, prepare your wardrobe now. O The RAC, a destination women’s fashion shop with a boutique feel, is that place of preparation.

Stocking the very best of fashion from New Zealand and afar, such as Stella + Gemma, Knewe, Lemon Tree Design, Zaﬁna, Seduce, Home-lee, and Fate + Becker, the racks are ﬁlled with garments galore. Find everything you could dream of, from blouses, blazers, and cardigans, to skirts, jeans, and every style of dress. Accessorise with day-to-night footwear, jewellery, and trending bags, bag straps, and belts.

Co-owner Renee Green says when new stock arrives, it doesn’t last long. The boutique, which celebrated its second birthday in early August, has become a sought-after stop at the Parkside Plaza on Harewood Road.

Locally owned and operated, the service o ered to customers carries the same intimacy. “We provide complete top-to-toe styling, with one-on-one customer service of beautiful clothing at an a ordable price,” Renee says.

On 16-18 August, O the RAC is holding a pop-up at Barrington Mall, providing the opportunity to shop hundreds of pieces at heavily discounted prices. Make a day of it, invite your friends, and give your wardrobe the love it needs.

off-the-rac.co.nz

DEAR HEART VEGAN BEAUTY

Dear Heart’s hair and body products are made for ethical shoppers who value luxury and elegance. Our products will provide an uplifting sensory experience like no other, because our products are designed with love for you.

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IT’S A CRIME NOT TO PRIME

Did you know generic supermarket toothpastes contain uoride, which is not only a neurotoxin, it also causes tooth discolouration? In some cases, it can even cause dental uorosis, which weakens the tooth and causes damage and decay. How can you prevent this?

Switch to our award-winning Whitening Primer Toothpaste - which whitens and strengthens teeth, and also primes them for our famous Whitening Strips! Vegan, uoride-free, dentistdeveloped and with gentle micro-polishers.

Use code METRO20 today for 20% o our entire website!

The ‘clavicut’, is a trending style that grazes the collarbone (clavicle). Its versatility for most hair textures and face shapes is what makes it so appealing to our guests. The clavi can be worn straight, wavy, or with soft curls, making it a favourite for those seeking a chic, lowmaintenance look.

This cut often features subtle layers or a slight inversion from back to front, making it longer towards the front. Whether styled straight, wavy, or with bangs, the clavicut can be sophisticated or edgy depending on the desired look.

Earth Organic Hairdressing

181 High Street, Christchurch Central P. 365 7393 www.earthorganichairdressing.co.nz

HELP WITH LIPOEDEMA

Lipoedema is a condition that leads to extra fat and uid being retained in the lower limbs initially. Lipoedema presents in di erent stages, also known as levels of progression. Those with an advanced stage of lipoedema, have the classic “column leg” & cu ng. Lipoedema is associated with pain, easy bruising, and a mass of nodular fat, which can progress over time to lymphoedema. The team at KM Surgical can reduce lipoedema with tumescent liposuction surgery. Call 03 377 1010 to arrange your consultation with Dr Ken Macdonald

Get that Beverly Hills skin right here in Christchurch

Look, we’re not saying it’s the ONLY procedure Kim K has had… but it’s deﬁnitely the one that makes her skin look so good!

If you’re following the big name celebs on Social Media - you would have seen Kim K raving about the BBLTM + MOXITM treatment combination she has in Beverly Hills with highly sought after Plastic surgeon Dr Ashkan Ghavami.

But did you know - you can get this EXACT treatment right here in Christchurch at Clinic1?

That’s right, this highly exclusive celebrity-status treatment is available in our brand new gorgeous clinic on Montreal Street (along with other advanced skin therapies and skin care brands).

The industry leading BBLTM + MOXITM treatments are only available at a handful of select locations throughout New Zealand and after seeing the results for ourselves in our Auckland clinic, we just knew we had to make this treatment accessible for our clientele at Clinic1 in Christchurch. So what are these treatments all about?

Broadband Light (BBLTM) is the world’s most powerful IPL device on the market! Setting a new standard in treating skin conditions such as pigmentation, age spots,

rosacea, broken capillaries, acne and loss of elasticity. The BBLTM device is considered the ‘Rolls Royce’ of pulse light devices with unmatched results that speak for themselves.

What about MOXI™? This non-ablative fractional laser resurfacing treatment was developed speciﬁcally to treat uneven pigmentation and repair sun-damaged skin leaving a photo ﬁnish radiant and youthful complexion. MOXI™ is safe for all skin types and can effectively treat melasma aka hormonal pigmentation.

When used together, these treatments are an absolute powerhouse for rejuvenating the skin and turning back the clock on the aging process.

These two treatments are valued at $1200, but if you book your combination treatment in a single session at Clinic1 Aesthetics - the package price is just $850! That’s much more affordable than a ﬂight to Beverly Hills to see Dr Ghavami - and you’ll get the exact same results.

As with most laser treatments, the cooler months are the perfect time of year to start

your skin rejuvenation journey - it’s crucial to minimise sun exposure prior to, during and after your BBL™ + MOXI™ treatments to ensure dramatic and long lasting results. If you’re ready to turn back the clock on the signs of aging and treat yourself like a celebrity - visit Clinic1 Christchurch and start your journey to rejuvenated, more youthful looking skin.

Only for Metropol readers we o er $50 o ANY treatments in August – use code “METROPOL” when you book online.

Beauty Report pamper

Younger looking skin

Rejuvenate the lower face for a smoother, more youthful appearance. Transform Clinic offer high-quality dermal filler treatments to soften fine lines and wrinkles and restore lost volume to beautifully rejuvenate the lower face with refreshing, natural-looking results. Book a free consultation today with one of our experienced appearance medicine nurses.

transformclinicmerivale Transform Clinic Merivale Transform Clinic Merivale | transformclinic.co.nz | Ph: 03 355 1311

Candy For Your Hair

Hair Candy Keratin Conditioning treatment contains 100% natural keratin which is an ingredient derived from New Zealand sheep wool. Proven to rebuild the internal structure of the hair, repair and prevent breakages, strengthen, thicken, condition, assist in hair growth, as well as making hair shiny and soft.

Get ready for spring early!

Don't miss out on our WINTER PROMOTION!

Choose between:

A. Eyebrows (any technique) + Lash Liner (worth $700) OR

B. Lip Blush + Lash Liner (worth $750)

ONLY $499 including Touch-up

Valid 1 August - 31 September 2024

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Tri-Glow Renewal Facial

Discover radiance, rejuvenation, and relaxation with a Tri-Glow Renewal Facial.

• Improved skin hydration

• Deep exfoliation

• Improves skin tone & texture

• Reduced inflammation

• Relaxation and stress reliefs

• Promotes collagen production

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Just $99! (usually $169) Changing the game for natural skin care

Feel great knowing you are experiencing the transformative benefits that come with luxury, organic ingredients.

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Permanent Makeup

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• Eyebrows

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JADE, QUARTZ, AND ALL SORTS

Tightened and sculpted facial features, smoother jowls, reduced stress, depuffed, tightened, and radiant skin. Could these be the results of facial tools?

They are like a workout for your face, and they come in handy as we search for anything to brighten and tighten our skin. Gua sha, facial rollers, cryo globes and face massagers are ever-popular. Many tools derive from practices seen for centuries, and known techniques in traditional Chinese medicine.

Moments of peaceful ‘me time’, a form of lymphatic drainage, and a kiss goodbye to built-up stress in the face, evidence shows the tools have beneﬁts despite their e ectiveness remaining a hot topic.

Gua sha can bring a glowy radiance to the skin, reduce darkness under-eye, and relieve muscle and jaw tension.

From East Asia, this healing technique applies a smooth, speciﬁcally shaped stone such as jade or quartz to massage the skin in one direction. Gentle pressure and smooth strokes from the tool from the inside to the outside of the face break tiny blood vessels beneath the skin and improve blood ﬂow.

The technique moves lymph ﬂuid and ﬁlters toxins from the body, and many users speak of lifted facial features and better structure after consistent gua sha use.

Tailor your success with precision

Facial rollers are incorporated into the skincare routines of many. Boosting circulation, reducing pu ness, temporarily tightening the skin, and making wrinkles look better are all beneﬁts of the tool, according to evidence and experts.

Again, through exercising blood flow and lymph fluid, inflammation and tension within the skin will lessen. Some facial rollers are texturised with bumps or ridges to provide extra stimulation. Cryo globes might be the skincare and beauty industry’s practical alternative to ice cubes. Through this technique, skin icing, the skin becomes subject to sculpting, lifting, and tightening.

From stainless steel to ice globes, these circular wands cool the skin down for a ﬁrmer, brighter complexion. They can be especially helpful for those su ering from psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea.

Face massager or sculpter, seemingly a blend between the gua sha, roller, and cryotherapy. With two round ends on a wand, these tools mimic a professional face massage to ﬁrm up and improve the skin’s appearance.

In some cases, these tools also help the skin soak up skincare products, for better overall results.

Consult your local esthetician to determine which facial tool might ﬁt best into your current skincare routine, and ensure you have the correct technique before you begin.

STUDIO PILATES RANGIORA

Enjoy high energy, fun and intense 40 minute reformer classes with a killer vibe. Get set for a total body transformation with inspiring instructors who will motivate and challenge you, making it feel more like a personal training session than a group class. Visit our studio in Rangiora to get started with an introductory offer of 6 classes for $60!

Classes for every body. At Studio Pilates Merivale we have a variety of class packs to choose from. With no memberships or locked-in contracts - you have the freedom to choose an option that’s right for you. 6 classes for just $60 T&Cs apply

When silver or grey hairs begin to peek through, it’s a confronting feeling.

There’s everything to love about it though, because it’s a natural process that allows your hairstylist the opportunity to revitalise your look.

“If you have silver hair coming in, and want to go grey gracefully, there are so many options to choose from,” adds Vicki Ogden-O’Fee, of V for Hair and Beauty. For a warm base, think silver hair with soft champagne, sandy iris, strawberry beige or translucent butterscotch tones, while a cooler base best suits silver dove, champagne lilac or platinum iris hues.

“With our complimentary consultations, we’ll discover if you’re warm or cool, based on hair, skin and eyes, and ﬁnd the best look for you.”

Silver & Grey Experts

What can bone broth do for you?

Derived from animal bones, connective tissue, and some meats, bone broth is packed full of nutrients such as collagen, and can come in liquid or powder form.

It might bring back memories from childhood, with parents or grandparents who stood by the beneﬁts of boiling bones, connective tissue and marrow. Naturally, they were right. It wasn’t just them who saw the beneﬁts, celebrities such as Salma Hayek drink a cup a day, and it is consistently recommended by nutritionists.

An enormous range of nutrients support muscles, ligaments, and bones, preventing injury and boosting regeneration, while promoting brain health, immune function, sleep, and mood.

Bone broth’s anti-inﬂammatory properties are known to relieve digestion problems such as leaky gut, bloating, and gas, to promote a strong gut lining and good digestion. With a high collagen concentration, research shows that bone broth supports healthy hair, nails, and skin.

These days, it’s a vital aspect of many wellness journeys. With amino acids such as glycine and arginine, and all the goodness of collagen, it’s no wonder. Despite the unappetising name, bone broth is easy to digest, and promotes the digestion of other foods, so becomes an option for healing.

health & wellbeing Putting the

spotlight on social burnout

There is constant pressure to be busy. Sometimes keeping up with every social event, scheduling consistent time with friends and family, answering each message, and being the ultimate parent or grandparent leads to exhaustion.

Call it social burnout, social fatigue, introvert burnout or introvert hangover. According to an international study, social and extroverted behaviour often leads to depleted energy levels and extreme tiredness, from the need to impress others and maintain meaningful conversation.

For many, it comes down to personality types. A lot can ride on whether you are an introvert or an extrovert. Social burnout still faces both, although it can wear out introverts - who need the energy to socialise rather than gain it from socialising like extroverts. While it is yet to be identiﬁed as a medical diagnosis, social burnout is a real experience, and you may not even know you have it.

It can feel like events, parties, and catch-ups becoming ‘chores’ in your life. You might notice yourself becoming increasingly fatigued, agitated, frustrated, or anxious. If each day is ﬁlled with overwhelm, and a massive list of things to do, attend, and keep up with, resulting in consistent exhaustion, you may be experiencing social burnout. It might be time to put yourself ﬁrst.

Taking self-care into your own hands

Firstly, remind yourself that social exhaustion is normal and completely ﬁne. Avoid putting yourself down for being an introvert.

Prioritise the people and activities you love, giving yourself that other time to recharge.

Understand what is draining you and ﬁgure out when it is best to say ‘no’.

Find your self-coping methods, which is anything that relieves stress and allows you to feel calm and happy. This could be baking, exercise, reading, or painting.

Rare Disorders First Strategy

The release of New Zealand’s Rare Disorders Strategy marks a signiﬁcant moment for people living with often debilitating conditions.

Having such a strategy is huge for the rare disorder community, as it means recognition and acknowledgement, says Rare Disorders NZ Board Chair James McGoram.

“It marks the ﬁrst time we have high level documented intention to improve the health and wellbeing of this vulnerable population group.”

For more than 20 years, Rare Disorders NZ, along with many other stakeholders in the rare disorder community, has been calling for an o cial strategy to direct government entities on how to respond to rare disorder cases.

There are more than 7000 known rare disorders, and while each may only a ect a few people in New Zealand, collectively they’re estimated to a ect 300,000 people nationally.

Until now, the health system has had no directives on how to manage patients presenting with unusual co-presenting symptoms, leaving many patients feeling misunderstood and bounced around in the health system. Almost one in ﬁve rare patients reported waiting over 10 years for a diagnosis, according to Rare Disorders NZ. More than half felt communication and information exchange between di erent service providers was poor, and that professionals are ill-equipped to support them.

“The Strategy is an important ﬁrst step, but real change will only happen when systemic improvements are implemented, and we will certainly be monitoring this closely,” the group says.

Women’s Health Physiotherapy

Muscle People offers a Women’s Pelvic Health service with NO WAIT LIST!

• Pre/postnatal physiotherapy

• Urinary incontinence

• Pelvic organ prolapse

• Menopause education/exercise

• Maternal birthing injuries

• Abdominal /pelvic surgery rehab

• Pelvic pain (incl. endometriosis/ adenomyosis)

• Sexual pain or dysfunction

Controlling bacteria

A team of New Zealand scientists has published research in the renowned international journal, Nature, after collaborating to tell the story of a microscopic arms race.

Postdoctoral fellow Dr Nils Birkholz (University of Otago) studies bacteria-ﬁghting viruses called phages, widely considered as the next step to controlling antibiotic-resistant bacteria in food production and human health.

He says publishing in such a prestigious journal was thanks to the collaborative approach the team took once they had the ﬁrst results.

“We approached other research groups to see how we could increase the impact of the story,” Nils says. “Now we have lots of di erent methods and approaches in it, and I think that is one of the aspects that made it so interesting for a journal like Nature

“It was deﬁnitely quite challenging to combine all that together and make a coherent story out of it, but it is worth it.”

Nils’ supervisor Professor Peter Fineran (University of Otago), who directed the project, helped pull in scientists from Germany, USA, the UK and New Zealand to contribute to the research.

Peter says having “more than a rugby team” of authors all working on one project is a stark contrast to how scientists did things when he was early on in his career.

“It was more the old way of doing things which was more ‘your PhD is your project’, you would have to learn every new technique you wanted to use. Collaboration means you can get much more impactful, interdisciplinary science done.

“In the context of using phages in agriculture to ﬁght plant pathogens, this research will hopefully contribute to that.”

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Flow Yoga Studios

Explore 45+ movement and mindfulness classes for all ages and stages per week

Flow Therapeutics Centre

Practitioners and healing technologies to support your holistic wellbeing

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Nourish your body and soul with delicious food right next door

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Pete Fineran

Nils Birkholz

Born & Raised in Christchurch

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Our Cyclossage Massage Bed supports your body if you suffer from:

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A gentle treatment, it uses 9 oscillating motors and 6 infrared zones. Relieving Stress & Pain

At Fertility Associates, we understand the joy babies bring as well as the difficulties faced by many who struggle to conceive.

As medical professionals, you understand the joy babies bring as well a s the difficulties faced by many of your patients who are struggling to conceive .

We also believe that providing exceptional care goes beyond just medical expertise. Our team of compassionate and experienced professionals is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring that you feel safe, heard, and valued.

By referring your patients to Fertility Associates, be assured tha t they will receive the highest qu ality c are an d t he m ost a dvanced f ertility p rocedures a vailable.

Seeking fertility advice can be overwhelming. With our experienced professionals, you can be sure that you will receive the guidance and information you need to make informed decisions. You can make an appointment with any of our fertility doctors, you don’t need to have a GP referral.

Your patients can be confident that they are being cared for by New Zealand’s pioneer in fertility m edicine w ith excellent live b irth r ates* t hat are am ong t he highest in Australasia.

Early r eferra ls g ive y our pa tients t he b est c hance an d, together, w e c an he lp them achieve t he f amily o f t heir dr eams.

If you feel that you’re not quite ready to book a doctor’s appointment, you can always make use of our Free Nurse Consult service, where you chat to one of our qualified fertility nurses for 15 minutes. They can answer your questions, talk about your unique situation, and map out some possible options.

Get in touch, and start your journey to parenthood today.

* Fertility Associates take home baby rates

Cold weather &

connections

Cold weather calls for cocooning up inside. It’s nice to be cosy and warm, yet this can have a negative impact on our social wellbeing. Studies show that cold temperatures can often bring notions of detachment from our social support networks. We tend to favour staying inside over attending events, catching up with friends and family, and making new connections. This can induce feelings of loneliness and isolation, and we may recoil even more. It can be a worry, if the winter blues have you feeling low already. During these times, encourage yourself to deﬂect the desire to hibernate, and instead make plans to spend time with the people who boost you up.

Avoid the stop at hibernation station

Share a meal: put something warm and indulgent on the menu and invite your best friends around, or the whole family. Reconnect, tell your latest stories, and dine on a homemade meal.

Host an indoor ﬁtness class: uplift your social and physical wellbeing by combining exercise with connections. Pull on your favourite activewear, roll out the yoga mat, and follow an online class or make your own. A commitment to physical activity also tackles the sedentary habits that can become the ‘new normal’ in the colder months.

Become an indoors tourist: think about that museum, gallery, or local boutique you never have time to visit. Call on a friend or three, and take yourselves on an indoor tour.

TeaHighfor Hamlin 2024

Reason for the season

How in the world are we supposed to remain motivated to embrace the cold days of winter?

Easy: eat, drink, breathe, sleep repeat. Exercise, move, dance, groove, repeat.

There is a science to staying motivated during winter and it’s important. It’s the science of creating a supportive environment around us.

Just as the garden city goes into winter dormancy, so do we, in our own way. It is time to slow down, to get enough sleep, move our body and minds, and stay connected.

Embracing cold, frosty mornings can be tough, but doing it with a smile encourages a positive outlook on the day ahead.

If we are being honest, we enjoy winter more for the fashion than the cold. Research shows that combatting winter blues can enhance our health, so there’s nothing better than stepping out in stylish boots and cosy coats—or your favourite activewear, complete with thermals underneath.

From us to you ‘dearest gentle reader’, (straight from the Bridgerton series), snuggle up with someone special, enjoy cocktails with fabulous friends, relax with a movie or televison series, and embrace the season. No winter blues to be seen here.

For more inspired advice, we will see you at breakfast on 27 August 2024. For more details, visit our website, inspiringmenow.com

Co-founders of Inspire Me Women

Conferences

& Events

Beautiful venues and expert operators at the forefront of creating unforgettable experiences.

Discover a showcase of some of the ﬁnest contemporary spaces, places, and services the city has to o er for your next special event or conference.

Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has put the city ﬁrmly on the international stage for conferences, functions, trade shows, and all manner of occasions.

Ross Steele, Te Pae Christchurch General Manager says international business is coming in regularly now, with many of the regeneration project’s initial goals coming to fruition.

“Since opening more than two years ago, the reputation of Te Pae for delivering top quality experiences continues to grow,” he says.

The ﬂow-on e ect of events hosted at Te Pae is already making positive economic ripples in the city and surrounding areas. Thirty percent of its convention business is international, and with each visitor comes money from wining and dining, sight-seeing, and accommodation boosting the local

economy, predominently during the winter months.

On the other side, Te Pae Christchurch uses 200 local food, beverage, and service suppliers, which also results in money trickling down into the economy. More than 85% of the food served at events within the convention centre is sourced from Canterbury-based businesses, showcasing the rich culinary o erings, and talent in the area.

“By supporting local suppliers, we deliver both an exceptional dining experience, and contribute to the growth and sustainability of the Canterbury business ecosystem.”

Ross adds that prior to the centre’s opening, accounting ﬁrm Ernst & Young

suggested Te Pae would add $60 million to the local economy in its ﬁrst two years. “We believe we are well on target to achieve that.”

Cantabrians should be justiﬁably proud of Te Pae, Ross says. “It’s as good as any convention centre n the world, recognised by the awards it has received.”

Looking to the future, Ross says Te Pae will continue to focus on the international market, and to cater for national and local demand. He likens winning an international convention as akin to winning the hosting rights for the Olympics. “We may be working up to eight years to secure an event, yet it is worth it to add to Christchurch’s reputation as a top-tier destination for events of all kinds.”

1400-seat tiered auditorium, divisible into two 700-seat venues

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In two years of operation, Christchurch’s convention centre Te Pae has become a premier destination for hosting exceptional events in the city.

In two years of operation, Christchurch’s centre Te Pae has become a destination for hosting exceptional events in the city.

The team is constantly looking for ways to refresh and improve its service and o erings, Ross says.

One recent example is its new functions menus.

Chefs work with local suppliers to give visitors a unique culinary taste of Christchurch.

“We mix global expertise and world class standards with local experience to bring the very best in regional cuisine to your table. Sourcing our produce from local farmers and ingredients from artisan producers, we can design a menu that will allow delegates and guests to taste the very best Canterbury and New Zealand has to o er,” he says.

“Working to ISO food safety standards, our expert catering team can meet a full range of dietary requirements. We can also create bespoke menus to meet the speciﬁc requirements of your event or special catering options designed to impress your guests – whatever the style, size or budget of your event.

QUICK FACTS

• Celebrated 2 busy years of events in May 2024

• Held over 500 events since opening (approx 30 international conferences, 20 exhibitions, 135 banquets, 5 live performances)

• Attracted over 212,000 attendees to events since opening

• Partnered with 220+ local suppliers in the last 12 months

• Won 4 awards in 2023

• Believed to be the ﬁrst convention centre in the world to achieve net carbonzero status

GO GREEN conferences &

Hosting a sustainable event is achievable with planning and foresight.

The aim is to have minimal environmental impact, while still delivering the core functions of your event.

Start with a plan to account for emissions, be intentional and considerate with your location and event space, and ﬁnd ways to reduce waste and o set unavoidable impacts.

A good conference plan and aligned stakeholders will help you accomplish your sustainability goals and minimise your event’s carbon footprint.

Consider a central location for your attendees, which will reduce carbon emissions associated with air travel. Once you’ve found the perfect city, look for a venue such as Christchurch’s Te Pae Convention Centre that champions sustainability.

Experts in this ﬁeld encourage individuals to reduce, reuse, and recycle and the principles apply to conferences, too. The ﬁrst step to a more sustainable event is to reduce overall waste. Consider a paperless event, where all information is in an app, emails, or a community dashboard. Ditch bottled water and single-use plastic and paper cups for reusable cutlery, metal water bottles, glasses, and reusable co ee mugs.

Tips to make your event eco-friendly

• Pick a green location and venue

• Reduce paper usage

• Plan for proper waste disposal

• Give away eco-friendly swag

• Partner with the local community

• Use eco-friendly event decor

• Make food-service sustainable

• Reduce your event’s carbon footprint

Motorsports NZ Conference & Awards 2024

Crusaders Hall of Fame 2024

Craft the ideal night

This is a team that knows the value of a quality drop.

The XBeerience boutique o -licence and ﬁllery in Rolleston boasts one of the most outstanding and exhaustive collections of craft beers in Canterbury. With 25 taps and over 250 local and international brews in stock, consider your needs sorted, whether you are just dipping your toe into the world of craft beer or are already something of a connoisseur.

And now, the XBeerience experience can come to you with their kegerator and mobile bar services. Choose between a fully manned 8-tap bar with all the trimmings or a dry hire of their stylish and easy-to-use setup. They will provide all the

Maximising your conference dollar

Methven is renowned for being the gateway to New Zealand’s best ski ﬁeld. While that’s true, the Alpine heartland village also has other enticing activities on offer to enjoy during downtime from a conference or special event.

essentials to ensure things run smoothly and fully stocked, with wine, spirits, and an exciting selection of craft beer. They also o er a range of phenomenal add-ons to help take things to the next level. Charming matching furniture, personalised tap badges, and other class touches make your event unforgettable. XBeerience will make sure the guests at your party, event, or sta drinks are well-watered and happy. Email info@xbeerience.co.nz to learn more.

XBeerience

The award-winning new Ōpuke Thermal Pools are only a short walk from the Brinkley Resort and Conference Centre. For more highoctane activities, Brinkley can organise jet boating, hot-air balloon experiences, and clay target and archery team-building activities through their partner tourism operators.

“The conference centre is very versatile,” says the resort’s general manager Paul Creswick. “It can be set up in numerous conﬁgurations and subdivided into three separate rooms with soundproof partitions with cathedral ceilings and underﬂoor heating.”

The venue can host anywhere from 10 to 110 delegates. Facilities include an electronic whiteboard, sound system with wireless microphone, Sony data projector, ﬂip charts, photocopying and a printing service. On-site catering in Shackleton’s Restaurant, and accommodation in the Qualmark 4-Star self-contained apartments have you covered for every requirement.

At Brinkley, the team is conscious your conference dollar spend is important in this economic climate. They guarantee you will receive 100% professional support to achieve this in a safe community environment for your delegates, only one hour from Christchurch International Airport.

Escape the ordinary and ignite creativity with a business event at Sudima Kaikōura.

From modern facilities and services to breathtaking scenery and unforgettable activities, Sudima Kaikōura redefines what a business event can be. In just a 2-3 hour drive from Christchurch, Blenheim and Nelson, our conference, meeting and event spaces, with their ocean and mountain views, provide the perfect environment for focused meetings and strategic planning. We can cater for teams up to 130 and curate bespoke experiences with Kaikōura’s world class activities and attractions that will wow your team. Let us transform your next business gathering into a memorable experience.

www.sudimahotels.com/beyond-business-as-usual

Planning event your

Organising a conference may be likened to running a marathon.

If planning it yourself, you’ll need to ﬁrst think through every step along the way, or you could leave it in the hands of an expert. Many venues have sta with high-level organisational skills so make use of them where you can. Allow plenty of time for yourself or your event planner to deal with the workload.

The ﬁrst step is to formulate your conference strategy and determine what you’re hoping to achieve. Establishing clear objectives at the outset of conference planning is crucial. Think about the expectations of those attending so the event will resonate with them.

Identifying what your audience wants is vital to the decision to go virtual, hybrid, or physical.

The structure of your event will be inﬂuenced by the team you have. For instance, a small team may require each member to handle multiple areas. Conversely, a larger team allows for assigning individual responsibilities such as sponsorship, marketing, and local arrangements. Delegation is the key here. Choose your team carefully. Look for enthusiastic, organised and driven team players. To avoid death by committee, make sure everyone’s clear on who’s responsible for what.

If you’re not an events pro, and it’s your ﬁrst time organising a conference, consider getting help from a professional conference or event organiser.

Ful l your hosting wishes

If these walls could talk, they would tell of love, laughter, and connection. Welcoming, ﬂexible, and stylish without pretension, your event is a breeze in any one of the four great spaces at this Christchurch establishment.

The Cashmere Club has been hosting family and corporate events for almost 50 years. Functions Manager Kayla Woolley says, “Our team understand what you need almost before you say it, we go above and beyond to ensure the organisers can relax and mingle and guests are happy.”

The Garden Bar is the most utilised room, holding 120 seated or 170 standing. It is naturally lit with windows all the way around and has a wonderful indoor-outdoor ﬂow. The Cashmere Lounge can seat 60 for a meal or 80 standing, and also o ers indooroutdoor ﬂow. The Heathcote Lounge is suitable for up to 40 dining or 60 standing and mingling, and is beautifully intimate for an evening or winter party. Set and style the rooms for any type of event, from workshops to weddings, corporate cocktails to memorial services.

“You name it, we can do it,” Kayla says. Beautiful bu et menus and platters are available, as is catering for speciﬁc dietary requirements, or design your own with head chef Emma. cashmereclub.org.nz

e resort for f dies

Situated against a breathtaking backdrop of the Southern Alps, ﬁnd an idyllic, exclusive spot to enjoy every meal.

Nestled within the perfect slice of New Zealand paradise, Methven Resort is the ultimate place for a weekend escape, paired with astoundingly delicious eats. Discover why it is such a destination, and make your choice: is the food better or the view?

Think mouthwatering meals made using fresh, local produce. Chargrilled steak is a house favourite, yet each dish is just as palatable. Another specialty is the Tractor Drivers special, which boasts a tasty plate of sirloin steak, sausage, bacon, onion, fries, and salad.

From traditional meals including a hearty roast or a classic chicken burger with fries, there is something for everyone. Lean into your indulgent side with the pasta of the day, some delectable recents have been a creamy chicken and bacon fettucine, and a chilli prawn linguine.

Flavour and mastery bind to craft a menu that leaves you completely indecisive on what to order, and it’s only an hour away from the city.

Open Wednesday to Sunday, with the Patrons Bar open from 4pm until late, and the Patrons Restaurant from 5pm, it is the spot to be, mid-week onwards.

Methven Resort’s Sarah Robinson says the weekly specials are cherished by visitors and locals alike.

On Wicked Wing Wednesday, enjoy as many chicken wings as you please for $2 each, while Thirsty Thursday o ers a burger and beer for $25. Naturally, Fish n Chip Friday is a $20 favourite, with the Sunday Roast also available for $20.

In between meals, soak up the spectacular scenery, or use Methven Resort as a base for group, couple, or team building fun at Mt Hutt Ski ﬁeld.

Upon your return from local activities, such as hot air ballooning, relax and unwind by the crackling open ﬁre with a glass of wine, or try your hand at a game of pool while the children enjoy the play area.

Visit www.methvenresort.com to plan your next date night or group gathering, or call the team on 03 302 8724.

historic wonder Trade o ce walls for

Work meetings or events can be stretched out and uninspiring, especially when held at the oﬃce. Enthusiasm dwindles and distractions are all around.

in Hanmer Group

Groupfun

in Hanmer

Operating a range of adventure activities, there’s something for everyone on offer at Hanmer Springs Attractions.

Only 90 minutes north of Christchurch, Hanmer Springs is well-known for its relaxing thermal pools, and there is plenty more on o er in the village for groups. Hanmer Springs Attractions is the district’s premium Qualmark Gold adventure tourism provider, o ering a range of fun outdoor activities perfect for groups and team building. Choose from jet boating, quad bike and buggy treks, river rafting adventures, paintball, and even bungy jumping.

The team’s newest activity is laser clay shooting. This interactive experience using decommissioned shotguns and reusable plastic clay targets is ideal for group fun, and is sure to bring out everyone’s competitive spirit.

Hanmer Springs Attractions also o er catered morning and afternoon teas as well as a barbecue lunch option, allowing groups to spend the whole day enjoying themselves in the scenic outdoors with a bespoke itinerary.

Chat to the team at Hanmer Springs Attractions today about options for your next corporate or Christmas event.

Wouldn’t you much rather spend the duration in a stunning homestead tucked away behind the Avon River?

Holding your conference or workshop at Mona Vale will allow your team to feel as though they’ve been transported from the day-to-day.

A short commute, yet you’ll feel like you’re somewhere else – the light and bright breakout areas are ideal for working. The team excels at setting up workshops during the week and can host small to medium groups of up to 50 people.

“Catering breaks can be taken upstairs, or for a change of scenery, eat downstairs, either in our garden view room, or if the weather is suitable, out on the terrace. Both spaces overlook the stunning gardens and meandering Avon river. A change of space does wonders for the creative mind, particularly when you are participating in brainstorming or training workshops,” says venue manager Julie Lee.

For a perfectly picturesque spot for any work event, enquire online with Mona Vale.

Partner jaunts

Conferences often allow partners to attend, adding on special activities for them to make the most of their time in the host region.

WITH CLASS C ering

No matter what you’re planning; a business meeting, celebration or family gathering, having fresh delicious catering is key.

Food is often the star of an event, bringing everyone together and creating joy and chatter among guests. Fortunately for your event, the talented team at Halswell Bakery have your food needs taken care of – they create perfect catering for any occasion. O ering a customised service means they can work with you to bring your vision to life.

From dainty club sandwiches to freshly-baked filled rolls, bitesized sweet slices, handcrafted savouries with flaky pastry, flu y scones, delicious doughnuts, and everything in between – each item is handcrafted with love, made fresh onsite. They can create custom-made specialty cakes, including numbers, cupcakes and multi-tiered options.

The focus is on fast, friendly, and e cient service – the team is here to help take the stress out of your event.

“At Halswell Bakery, we’re all about simple, delicious, fresh, and wholesome food,” says owner Ruth Buckley.

It’s easier than you’d think to organise catering – you can head to Halswell Bakery website and place your order online. Alternatively, you can head in store at 7/346 Halswell Road, call 03 322 4600 or email shop@halswellbakery.co.nz.

Many events will have speciﬁc programmes for attendee partners, which they may or may not take advantage of.

Christchurch has a huge array of options for visitors, and locals, and because of its central location is also well positioned for out-of-town activities.

From e-bikes to limo tours, wining, dining, and retail therapy, to arts and culture, the city and its surrounding environs o er so much to do, to explore, and to enjoy.

Hop on a tram and tour the city, take a punt on the Avon River, or wander through Hagley Park are all activities within easy reach of most central city accommodation.

A day away may be to Hanmer Springs, or Kaikōura, or for rest and relaxation book into one of the many spas locally and away.

The wider Christchurch area also boasts several top-notch golf courses, plus other options for the more athletic, including seasonal ski adventures.

Food

for the people

There is something for everyone in Hanmer Springs, from all kinds of activities to excellent accommodations and facilities for conferences and events.

Delicious food is a key ingredient for any occasion, whether a large corporate event, a wedding, or a birthday party. The answer to those requirements is right there in the village.

The team at Four Square Hanmer Springs has a passion for creating bespoke grazing platters that are stunning to look at and totally delicious to eat. Because the platters are crafted especially for each occasion, they can be designed to suit any budget and group, with generous, varied grazing boards.

Be assured though, that all the platters will contain a variety of seasonal ingredients, beautiful specialty cheeses and cured meats, along with fresh fruits, delectable chutneys, hummus and pâté. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free

platters are also available, the team say.

Other catering options include gourmet barbecue packages and ﬁnger food packages that include the traditional favourites of sandwiches, glazed ham and seasonal salads. The store has also become well known for its delicious and creative celebration cakes and dessert platters.

Contact the team today on 03 315 7190 to discuss how they can assist you with your event catering requirements. Find Four Square Hanmer Springs at 12 Conical Hill Road, and on Facebook.

Artist spotlight

Husband and wife duo Joanna and Peter Green began their musical endeavour in 2020.

This initiated a shared musical journey as The Wax Birds, built on an unshaken belief in the transformative power of music. So, transform your next event with their melodies. From corporate to private events and parties, the duo can set the ambience you desire.

Well-oiled, they’ve released two albums of warm, homespun Folk-Americana, with their next, A Steady Hope, out on 9 August, and toured extensively throughout Aotearoa. With nostalgic songs and alluring harmonies, they’ve earned a name for themselves as a band on the

rise. Last year, The Wax Birds were ﬁnalists for the MLT Songwriter’s Awards, and in 2024 they continue to grow the craft as both lyricists and performers.

As comfortable commanding the stage at a festival as they are entrancing a crowd in an intimate venue, a Wax Birds live show is an enchanting experience. With an exquisite, reminiscent sound of luminaries Justin Townes Earle and Greg Brown, and a third album on the horizon, now is the time to catch this up-andcoming duo live. Say you saw them before they truly took o .

• 9 August: Black

17 August:

• 24 August: Sumner Social

Foursquarehanmersprings

Elevating

THE HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE

Set in the tranquil Gapes Valley just ﬁve minutes from Geraldine, one restaurant and brewery stands out with a seriously sumptuous menu and incredible craft beer.

We are a restaurant and brewery destination. We have made it our mission to wow our guests with amazing food, outstanding craft beer, and good old fashioned customer service, in a sophisticated setting,” says House of Hop business owner Lisa Dawson. It’s a goal they have certainly achieved.

House Of Hop brew some of the region’s best craft beer, with a selection of 14 craft beers on tap for you to choose from. On o er, too, is a carefully curated selection of ciders, wines, and spirits.

If you are looking for the ideal location for your next private function or event, House of Hop

specialise in parties and events, with a beer trailer for hire, too. Think Christmas functions, professional and social events for businesses, beautiful wedding receptions, and all of those family celebrations in between. Get in touch with Lisa on 029 0202 0399 to discuss all your requirements.

Creating lasting memories

In the rolling hills overlooking Akaroa, Mt Vernon Lodge offers a stunning backdrop and unique experience for your next event or getaway.

The lodge’s charm lies in its tranquil countryside setting and the personal touch that owners David and Amanda Kinnaird have cultivated. With spacious grounds and serene water views, Mt Vernon provides the perfect setting for both work and play. “People wake up to a stunning view,” David notes. “Some go for a quick jog up and down the hills, while others enjoy yoga on the deck at sunrise.”

“We can host an elopement of half a dozen people or a wedding of up to 130,” says David. When not hosting weddings, the lodge often transforms into a conference centre during the week, accommodating groups ranging from small teams to larger gatherings of up to 100 people.

The venue o ers various on-site games and can arrange local activities. The homemade catering is a particular point of pride. “Guests often say the food is made with love,” David shares.

Mt Vernon is ideal for corporate retreats, family reunions, and milestone celebrations. As David puts it, “If these walls could talk, I’m sure there’d be hundreds of stories.” Come and add your story to the rich tapestry of memories at Mt Vernon Lodge.

NEXT LEVEL FUN

If you’re looking for a delightful space for your next team building or staff event, it’s hard to look past this leading Ōtautahi entertainment venue.

That is Codebreakers. Catering for groups of up to 120, and conveniently located in the heart of the Christchurch CBD, there is something fun for everyone.

A sensational collection of fun and frantic escape rooms will have your sta or guests scratching their heads and cracking up as they decipher clues and solve carefully crafted puzzles, owner Logan McMillan says. There is a range of themes to these experiences too, from the heart-stopping scares of Echoes of the Damned to the ‘poptastic’ world of the Swift Escape, a journey through Taylor Swift’s mind, and those are just two of your options.

Afterward, there are ping-pong tables and dart boards to keep the fun going. Plus, your team will stay well-fed and watered with a delicious menu of artisan pizza and a fantastic array of drinks. They even o er a complimentary photo booth to capture memories.

For an exciting and entertaining outing that will bring your team together in a fun, interactive environment, look to Codebreakers. Get in touch and book your event today.

codebreakers.nz

A luxe time out

As our new Christchurch city burgeons into a major destination again, fantastic venues beckon both locals and visitors.

One such venue is the glorious Crowne Plaza Hotel, o ering the ultimate in luxurious relaxation and a blissful time out. The most charming, intimate space is found nestled behind the ﬁreplace in the entrance lobby. Push through the handsome doors and enter the hushed haven that is the 1851 Social Bar and Lounge.

The décor is sumptuous, with a distinctly Moroccan feeling that evokes images of ﬁlms, such as Casablanca, with impeccably dressed people perched at the bar, sipping something delicious, such as an Espresso Martini, which is now available on tap.

Hire the lounge space in 1851 Social as a private venue, it o ers a separate entrance that provides exclusivity from the hotel lobby. With a capacity of up to 50 people, it’s a versatile spot for events which need a private bar, a variety of plush seating areas, and a little elegance.

With an a ordable minimum spend of $500, an unforgettable event with family, friends or work colleagues is guaranteed.

Situated in the heart of the city, close to Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, as well as happening spots like New Regent Street, the 1851 Social Bar and Lounge turns your special gathering into something magical and magniﬁcent.

dream event PACKAGING UP A

Unique Canterbury charm, a variety of versatile event spaces, and an upscale hotel on ﬁve acres of wondrous gardens unite to simplify event planning.

Lock in the event destination you seek, one of an unforgettable experience, with Chateau on the Park, a DoubleTree by Hilton. Picture inclusive packages designed to meet your needs, built-in bar service spaces for conferences and seminars, fresh catering, and ﬂexible rooms all wrapped up in one venue. A place of iconic heritage, recently celebrating its 50th birthday, this is a truly grand spot to share with your team.

Seven dedicated event spaces ﬁt any purpose. State-of-the-art A/V technology and a dedicated on-site planning team encourage you to “let us take care of everything.”

The Great Hall comes with space for up to 340 guests, a tall ceiling to accompany the room’s grand energy, built-in sliding panels and the option to portion it into three separate spaces. Meanwhile, the Camelot Room seats up to 100 people. Awash with natural light from full-length windows, guests can look through beautiful French doors out to the courtyard garden.

The Tower Room overlooks the swimming pool and village green, while for something smaller, The Ballantyne Room is wellsuited for boardroom meetings, with a wonderful cathedral-style ceiling. On a warm day, consider a marquee event at Matai Lawn, tucked behind the Chateau o ering a tranquil setting.

The amenities speak for themselves alongside the 192 gorgeous guest rooms and four suites. An outdoor heated swimming pool, same-day laundry, 160 free self-parking spaces, ﬁtness centre, and 24-hour business centre bring both comfort and leisure for your

guests. Dining at Garden Court Brasserie and drinks at the Den Bar are the cherry on top.

No matter what you’re hungry for, the kitchen is able to provide ﬂexible and delicious food options. Sit down for breakfast, lunch or dinner, order room service, indulge in an in-between snack, or grab something on the go. When serving a group, choose from cocktail snacks, bu et banquets, and served meals, each catered to dietary and allergen requirements upon request.

With just a short walk, you can end up at the city centre, the iconic Botanic Gardens, Hagley Golf Club, and the Western Business District. For added convenience, the airport is only a 15-minute drive.

Contact chcnz_cb@hilton.com or phone 03 343 9759 to enquire with the event team about hosting your next event or conference at Chateau on the Park, a DoubleTree by Hilton.

chateauonthepark.co.nz

Black Box e

Christchurch’s most recent addition to the spaces and places that make our city feel people-centred and connected is located inside Papa Hou, 4 Rolleston Avenue.

Papa Hou, meaning Treasure Box, is a building like no other in Aotearoa – housing a diverse range of specialised spaces for an equally diverse number of users. One of these spaces is the Black Box. It was named so because it is a ‘blank canvas’ performance and function venue, customisable to your creative or corporate event ideas. Organise anything in this space, from traditional raked seating before a ﬂat stage to an empty room with a single spotlight for that one romantic dinner.

Anything is possible because of its clever design.

This space is appointed with all the technical requirements of a professional theatre. It comes with enormous ﬂexibility in how the equipment, such as lights, sound, seating, and dressing rooms, can be arranged and utilised.

The Kind Foundation operates a 3+ star hotel next door, Hotel Give, and Papa Hou provides a full bar and catering service as required. Other meeting spaces and a café is also part of the o ering making any event in the Black Box an ideal choice, reducing headaches for the organising team and creating a seamless experience for performers and attendees.

The amateur arts sector was badly disrupted by the earthquakes, and the loss of a ordable professional venues

that occurred as a result. “Our vision for the Black Box is to strengthen the performance sector of our community and in particular to support amateur performance groups,”

CEO Josie Ogden Schroeder says.

As Papa Hou is owned and operated by The Kind Foundation, a charitable trust that exists to strengthen the community, this is an asset that aims to give back. Hiring the space will enable The Kind Foundation to do more ‘good in the hood’.

Di erent rates are available, to suit a ordability.

“We unashamedly charge more to corporate/business customers, although still at amazing value, and use this income to encourage, support and subsidise amateur artists. This in turn grows the arts in Christchurch which has a positive impact for everyone,” Josie says.

Seating 240 people theatre-style, or up to 500 standing –and everything else in-between, the Black Box is the hidden treasure of Papa Hou. Hirers can also utilise a fully licensed lobby area for pre-performance or pre-event drinks, or use it as a break-out room when in conference mode. Best of all, it will not cost the earth to deliver a show or event that is remembered.

For more information, visit the website or scan the QR code.

The Kind Foundation is the over-arching charitable entity that continues to support many di erent sites and businesses for over 161 years. Their vision is to connect people, doing things that make them happy and well, giving back all earnings to community areas in need.

meeting place MORE THAN JUST A

A venue for every occasion is sometimes hard to ﬁnd, yet one Christchurch club stands out among the others.

Catering for four to 400, and in good proximity to the city and the airport, makes the Hornby Club a popular choice for meetings, celebratory events, and also conferences.

General manager Tim Mathews says the club has been purpose-built to host functions.

“Multiple rooms are available for hire, the biggest ﬁtting up to 500 people, with many breakout spaces allowing large work groups to get their team altogether, at the same location and time. Get together for early morning breakfast meetings, after work drinks, product launches, expos and more,” he adds.

“There’s excellent catering, great service, car-parking for the team, and a location to suit those ﬂying in, that’s close enough to explore the city.”

Tim says the modern and inviting premises bring a sophisticated, enjoyable energy.

“Our experienced function management team, wait sta , bar sta and executive chef all work together to ensure every success. To date we have hosted everything from conferences to Christmas functions, board meetings through to large music concerts.

“We have designed spaces that help create great events. If you need a venue that can host a short-notice breakfast meeting for 10 guests, or a large corporate conference for 400, give us a call. We are already planning Christmas functions,” adds Tim.

Icrunch

Events time

in styleCelebr ing

Raise a toast to exceptional events.

Biscuits are often crunchy, sweet and comforting. We humans tend to ﬁnd crunchy foods satisfying to eat, from a sensory perspective.

t’s easy to see why we soon reach for another biscuit seconds after the ﬁrst. The team at Wooden Spoon Biscuits understands the deep appeal of biscuits. O ering a unique catering service tailored speciﬁcally for corporate events, business meetings, workshops and o ce gatherings, it’s a quirky, delicious addition to your next event.

You won’t find these biscuits on a supermarket shelf. All the varieties are meticulously handcrafted and homemade in small batches using the best of ingredients. The bakers make more than 20 di erent styles from classic favourites such as shortbread - those topped with limoncello icing are especially popular - chocolate chip, gingersnap and the flytrap, to speciality gourmet flavours. The Ricciarelli is an almond and lemon Italian style while the Cavallucci is flavoured with aniseed, mixed peel and walnuts. View all the delicious varieties on the website below.

The menu of biscuits can be tailored to suit the theme of the event with ﬂavours mixable and matchable. The company also o ers delivery options and professionally presented catering displays showing the biscuits elegantly and invitingly.

In the heart of the Selwyn District, Thirsty Acres is making waves in the events industry. Recently recognised as a ﬁnalist in both the Hospitality New Zealand Awards for Excellence and the Canterbury Hospitality Awards, the restaurant is rapidly gaining acclaim for its exceptional event hospitality.

Owner Jono Alve and his dedicated team strive to provide unparalleled service. The venue is perfect for a variety of events, from intimate Christmas parties to large corporate functions. With a full capacity of 200 guests, a function room for up to 40 people, and a 14-person boardroom, the team can accommodate gatherings of all sizes. Its culinary o erings, ranging from à la carte to bu et service, consistently garner high praise.

Live entertainment is a cornerstone of the Thirsty Acres experience, with options from bands and DJs to solo performers, ensuring a lively atmosphere for any event.

The venue’s outdoor areas provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying locally sourced produce and an impressive selection of wines and spirits. For added convenience, transport solutions are on o er, including a courtesy coach and larger bus options.

With its blend of exceptional service and stunning surroundings, Thirsty Acres o ers a unique and memorable experience for all guests.

To plan your next event, email kirwee@thirstyacres.co.nz, phone 03 318 1814, or visit the website.

Letting business and events bloom

Thousands of visitors annually visit The Hurunui Garden Festival, the region’s premier garden event.

“Our stunning North Canterbury gardens are some of the most inspirational private gardens New Zealand has to o er,” Jenny Cooper says, who will feature her garden in the festival.

“We o er something to delight and inspire every gardener or group, from the intimate and whimsical, to the grand and formal, with beautiful herbaceous borders, native plantings, tree-lined avenues, or cosy seating areas,” Jenny adds.

The gardens are all a peaceful drive from Christchurch, and as a self-driven event, you

have the freedom to plan your itinerary and enjoy some of the delights of the region along the way. These include fabulous local food, wineries, historic homes, and local art and artisans.

At each property, the owners will be on hand to tell stories and share their advice and knowledge. Many gardens o er refreshments, plant stalls, gardening workshops, art exhibitions and live entertainment. Learn about growing dahlias, garden design and plant propagation, share a wine tasting or visit the Christmas Grotto.

These and many other fun events can be found on the website and in the handy free-todownload Festival Guide.

Begin planning your trip to the wonderful Hurunui region today, and book your tickets for the festival from 31 October to 3 November at the website.

The heart of homemade

In an era of fast-paced living and convenience foods, there are refreshing reminders of the importance of slowing down and savouring life’s sweet moments.

Founded by Andi Marie McElwain, a creative mother seeking improved work-life balance, this West Melton-based bakery has grown from a home kitchen to a thriving business. What sets Harpers House apart is its commitment to wholesome ingredients and traditional baking methods. Andi prioritises local suppliers, embraces seasonal ingredients, and opts for organic products whenever possible. Her guiding principle is simple: to create treats she’d be proud to serve her own family.

Harpers House caters to various events, from engagement parties to corporate morning teas. The product line includes celebration cakes, mini cakes, popular vegan cookies, and slices for catering. Andi o ers delivery throughout Christchurch, ensuring convenience for her customers.

Beyond selling baked goods, the bakery aims to inspire a return to the kitchen through cake decorating classes and plans for pre-made mixes. “I want to encourage people back into the kitchen, and give them their conﬁdence,” says Andi.

Harpers House reminds us of the simple joys of homemade treats and the importance of knowing what goes into our food—a sweet recipe for a healthier, more connected community. harpershouse.co.nz

SMOKE ‘N’ BARREL

BBQ for the whole crew?

Make Smoke ‘n’ Barrel the venue for your next event. Options to suit up to 150 guests. No hire fee.

catering@smokenbarrel.com 03 260 1558 www.smokenbarrel.com

THE PEDAL PUSHER ROLLESTON

The perfect venue for events, quiz nights and fundraisers. We can cater for all your needs and dietary requirements.

55 Faringdon Blvd, Rolleston 03 260 0866 www.thepedalpusher.co.nz

EVENT PROFESSIONALS

Your go-to partner for creating unforgettable experiences. Specialising in stylish events, innovative activations and more. Bringing your vision to life with creativity and precision, meticulously planned and executed; visually stunning, engaging, and memorable. suzanne@eventprofessionals.co.nz Insta: eventprofessionalsnz

CATS EYE EVENTS (ROLLESTON)

Embark on a journey of exquisite Weddings, Birthdays, Baby Shower or any Special days designed and styled by Cats Eye Events. We feature a comprehensive range of decor to hire and also an extensive retail selection of party supplies instore.

18/35 Illinois Drive, Rolleston 022 391 2154 www.catseyeevents.co.nz

GET GRAZY

Curating mouthwatering grazing tables and stunning platters for every celebration, using locally sourced, delicious produce to be devoured with minimal waste. North Canterbury based, travel throughout the South Island available.

www.getgrazy.co.nz

PLATTERS ‘R’ US

Let us elevate your event with our premier conference catering service and exceptional grazing tables, o ering a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

021 058 8088 plattersrus2022@gmail.com www.plattersrus.co.nz

HOTEL ELMS

With four conference rooms available capable of ﬁtting 80 to 200 people, and access to the delicious delicacies from Fig Restaurant, the Hotel Elms makes for the deﬁnitive venue for your next seminar or large social event.

456 Papanui Road, Christchurch 03 352 4903 www.hotelelms.co.nz

ATAAHUA WINE

Unique and beautiful wine to elevate your special event or celebration. Locally grown and crafted fine wine that reflects the beauty of the valley along with the passion and e ort put into the craft of producing fine wine.

www.ataahuawine.co.nz

THE TANNERY

The Tannery is one of the most spectacular boutique wedding venues in Christchurch. Seamlessly blending old world charm with contemporary creative ﬂair.

Lorie Morrison - 027 325 4817 www.thetannery.co.nz/weddings/

GEORGES ROAD WINES

Our cellar door is a perfect venue for your conference event. Taste our delicious wines alongside antipasto in our barrel room or outside on the lawn with a stunning backdrop of vines and mountains.

625 Mt Brown Road, Waipara 021 121 8669 www.georgesroadwines.co.nz

Gordon’s Chilli & Honey Flavoured Pickled Onions …not for the faint-hearted! 1kg - $5.40 - call

The Picklery - Retail Shop Recipe suggestions instore.

Open weekdays 8am – 4pm. 1 Timothy Place, Wigram. Ph. 03 3480 223

Delicious fresh and frozen meals, soups and desserts. Order online, through the Richard’s Real Kitchen App, or call to find out more. Stock up now with our delicious readymade meals for winter. Ideal for those busy days, after skiing, or just because…also a perfect gift!

Bio Marinus

Warm up with

coffee freshly roasted and made to perfection,

premium beans to make your own at home!

Rangiora - 13 Ashley Street Wigram - 1/60 Hayton Road

High ﬂying brews

When in Wigram, a visit to its local brew haven and a brewery tour is a must for craft connoisseurs and those who can appreciate a perfect pint.

Proudly nestled in the heart of the suburb, Wigram Brewing Company has been producing their comprehensive range of multi-award winning handcrafted beers for over two decades. Pioneers of the Aotearoa craft beer movement, their knowledgeable and passionate team of brewers have produced an outstanding range, from pilsners to porters and easy drinking hazys to seasonal specialties.

“We love sharing our passion behind the brewing, beer styles, and local ingredients,” promotions coordinator Caroline McGurk says. They even have a range of dog beer called canine crafties to keep your fourlegged friends wagging their tails while you wet your whistle. Their ﬁllery and taproom, Hangar 57, is a trip to beer-vana. Happy Hour Fridays are ever-popular, “not just because you get a $10 pint of premium craft beer, but it’s an easy wind-down-the-week atmosphere with your mates and a welcome to the weekend,” Caroline adds. Brewery tours from a passionate team, a local focus, and delicious brews are just the answer, whether you are in need of a cold one or are looking to settle in with a group of mates. Call them on 03 343 4493 or visit them at 57 Sonter Road, Wigram.

wigrambrewing.co.nz

1. Catherine Langdale, Lilly Hodgson, Shireen Connor. 2. Marisa Bryan, Matt Hanrahan, Barbara Loxon. 3. Nicky & Jason Lamborne, Bridie Diver. 4. Kim Chan, Gary Wright, Staci Barnette, Talei Howell-Price. 5. Paul Hutton, Chris Ehmann, Alastair Munro, (Hilton). 6. Wendy & Blair Gorman, Sue & Geo Tiney.

Photos by Jane Wyles Photography, for copies

Sti y date pudding Traditional or

INGREDIENTS

1 1/4 cups pitted dates, ﬁnely chopped

1 1/4 cups boiling water

1/3 cup butter

1/2 to 3/4 cup brown sugar

1 cup ﬂour

1 Tsp baking powder

2 eggs

Traditional butterscotch

To a saucepan on low heat, stir together 2 cups brown sugar, 1 Tsp vanilla, 1/4 cup butter, and 1 cup cream, until dissolved and thick.

METHOD

with a twist

Preheat your oven to 180°C, and line a 20cm baking tin or individual ramekins.

In a large bowl, submerge dates in boiling water for 5-10 minutes, to soften.

To the same bowl, add butter, brown sugar, and eggs, mixing well. Stir in ﬂour and baking powder until just combined, before pouring into your tin.

Bake for 35-38 minutes, or 15-20 in ramekins, until the pudding bounces back.

Cool for 5-10 minutes, then turn out.

Serve with ice cream and drizzled sauce of your choice.

Spiced orange

Melt 1/4 cup butter in a saucepan, before adding 1/2 cup sugar and the juice of 3 oranges, and some rind (optional). Mix well. Add 2 crushed star anise, 1/4 Tsp ground cinnamon, and 4 cloves, crushed. Mix again and simmer, covered, for two minutes. Lastly, add 1 Tbsp cornstarch dissolved in 1-2 Tbsp water and bring to a boil. Let it thicken to a sauce consistency, then cool slightly and serve.

Nice & spicy

Whether you are in love with, or terriﬁed of them, jalapeños are one of the most popular chilli peppers in the world. Experiment with the spicy fruit (yes, peppers are fruit), other than the traditional Mexican favourites, with Metropol’s jalapeños three ways...

Keep it healthy and sprinkle chopped jalapeños atop a green, leafy salad. Recreate feelings of warmer days with a deliciously crunchy, spicy salad. Pair with tomato and coriander, and drizzle with lime.

Spice it up with a chilli margarita. This might be what your happy hour needs, a beautifully refreshing combination of spice and summer vibes – minus the nice weather. The key is in deliciously crisp jalapeños.

Warm up, instead with jalapeño poppers. Crunchy, cheesy, deep-fried, and spicy, they are a great starter to snack on with friends or family, or by yourself. These yummy bites highlight all the best ﬂavours of jalapeños so well that you might devour the whole lot.

Floor, Crowne Plaza Christchurch

food safety standards

Any business supplying food within New Zealand must comply with a complex range of important requirements regarding food health and safety.

These requirements are to identify and create awareness of potential hazards for the consumer. These may be concerning preparation, production, manufacturing, packaging, storage, handling, transport or distribution of any food type.

Under the Food Act (2014) each business must have a Food Control Plan which sets out what steps a food business needs to take to make their food safe. It’s all very well to have the plans, yet who makes sure the plans are actually being properly implemented? Auditing Solutions NZ is a recognised national leader in evaluation or “veriﬁcation” of food plans across the wider food industry sectors in this country.

While there are many factors that can inﬂuence the duration of an evaluation/veriﬁcation, there are three main parts for a business to be aware of - preparation, on-site assessment, and reporting. The time to undertake each of these will vary, depending on the food safety risk, the size of a business and the complexity of the processes the business uses.

Auditing Solutions has put together information about the

veriﬁcation times for di erent businesses and has given tips on reducing the duration of a veriﬁcation.

Auditing Solutions senior operations and quality coordinator Jessica Neale advises that a business should be well prepared, with all its records readily available. Sta should be on hand to talk with the veriﬁer and answer questions. Businesses should also complete a check before veriﬁcation to ensure their operations and documents are fully implemented.

Veriﬁcation may take longer if:

• There are special conditions for a business’ registration.

• Any corrective actions from previous veriﬁcations have not been carried out.

• Any new non-compliance issues are discovered on-site.

• There have been signiﬁcant changes since registration. For further information about how to prepare for a veriﬁcation, contact Auditing Solutions on 0800 43 82 43.

Recognised national leader in the verification of food control plans and national programmes across the wider food industry sectors in New Zealand. Our personable team are immersed in this process every day and are here to assist you.

Karen Gough

Ian Shaw

Director Gail Shaw

Dining Guide

BEE

New Zealand wide

BEE stands for long weekends in the sun, BBQs with mates, creativity and individualism. BEE celebrates everything you want to BEE. Our naturally brewed BEE-licious alcoholic lemonade, and now Pink Lemonade is available from grocery and liquor stores across New Zealand. What do you want to BEE?

Available from select New Worlds, PAKn’SAVES, Liquorlands and more!

Find us on: drinkbee.co.nz

Explore Cafe Elia’s charm!

Under new ownership and licensed, delight in our delectable on-site cabinet food, mouthwatering brunch, and renowned coffee.

Step into our inviting, newly renovated space for convenience and friendly vibes. Easy off-street and on-site parking make your visit stress-free.

Join our vibrant community today!

ROUTE

At Route 72 Café & Emporium we provide healthy, wholesome and high quality meals. The kind and committed team happily caters for special dietary requirements with gluten and dairy free variations on the menu. From lighter bites, including sandwiches, through to heartier eats including gourmet burgers and meals with Oriental accents, Route 72 will spoil you for choice. Open Wed-Sun. Closed Public Holidays.

1697 Cust Road, Cust P. 03 312 5595 www.route72.co.nz

2nd OUTLET NOW OPEN

From our family to yours – we bring you a lifetime of bakery know-how to offer a wide variety of cakes, cheesecakes, cupcakes, doughnuts, breads, pies, sandwiches and slices. Edible images for any special occasion also available.

Catering available for morning and afternoon shouts, and office catering a speciality. Shop in-store or online.

The Colombo and Fendalton Village 376 Ilam Rd, Bryndwr Ph. 03 351 0555 www.naturallydelicious.co.nz

Find us on:

MAIHAN SUPERMARKET Sydenham

Discover vibrant Middle Eastern flavours at Christchurch’s premier grocery and Halal Butchery. Our diverse selection spans Middle Eastern, Persian, Turkish, Afghan, and Asian delicacies. Specialising in gourmet foods, spices, sweets, teas, coffees, and premium Halal meats, we cater to various cultural traditions and dietary needs. Immerse yourself in a rich and diverse experience with special occasion cuts and an array of serving essentials.

403 Colombo St, Sydenham Ph. 03 332 1897 www.maihansupermarket.nz

THE HIVE CAFÉ Rangiora

With winter very much upon us there is no better time to pop out to the The Hive Cafe at Springbank. Where you can enjoy the clear country air, stunning mountain views, whilst savouring your coffee, and New Zealand’s throat-healing remedy Manuka! Please come find your favourite from our selection of manukas today!

1227 Oxford Road, Rangiora www.springbankhoney.com

399 Ilam Road, Bryndwr

CAFE ELIA Fendalton

EASY ORANGE sorbet

Cool, refreshing, and not too sweet. Keep a sorbet up your sleeve to serve before a warm meal as a palate cleanser, as the di erence in temperature livens up and resets the taste buds.

INGREDIENTS

5 to 6 oranges

1 Tsp lemon juice

2 Tbsp sugar or maple syrup

Pinch of salt

Mint and rind, to garnish

TOP TIPS

METHOD

Cut oranges in half, juicing them. Scoop out the leftovers to create orange ‘bowls’. Pop into the freezer to chill.

Add orange juice, lemon juice, sweetener, and salt to a bowl and mix well.

Keep in the bowl, or transfer to an ice cream container, and cover. Freeze for 2-3 hours.

Remove the frozen mixture from the freezer and scrape it into a blender or food processor. Blend brieﬂy to smoothen, and return to the ice cream container.

Serve with a sprig of mint and a pinch of rind, or freeze again if the blending melts the mixture.

• Chill the bowls before serving, to avoid premature melting.

• Swap out oranges for another fruit of your choice, ensuring you take mind of the sweet and sour levels and adjust the sugar as needed.

New! Scavenger Hunt and Chef Cooking Demonstration - Corporate Team Building/ Birthday Event! Engage in our Scavenger Hunt, exploring Chch Central for hidden foodie facts. Afterwards, savour a 3-course NZ demonstrated meal at International Culinary Studio’s kitchen, celebrating your discoveries. Price: $149pp. Book your Xmas staff function now.

Welcome to Crazy Horse Hammersley!

A family friendly restaurant with passion filled authentic Thai food & Fusion Delights. Fun, genuine service. The newest venue in CHCH with a great bar, Live Music, Jazz & Blues every Thursday. Come meet the Crazy family & enjoy the Thai hospitality & awesome experience. We look forward to seeing you soon! Open 7 days. Mention this advert for 10% off food on your next reservation.

Feed your family for less at Fresh on Kendal with our customisable Family Packs! Choose any 5 items from our selected range for just $12. Our ever-changing selection ensures variety and freshness, featuring locallysourced favourites. Drop by to create your perfect pack and experience the warmth of community shopping. Nourish your loved ones without stretching your budget!

SHANDYS

At Shandys, we’re passionate about preserving tradition! Discover our refreshing new Elderflower Fizz and our renowned handcrafted sauces, all made in Sheffield with locally sourced ingredients. Explore them online now!

027 233 8132

www.shandysproducts.com

TRICKETT’S GROVE WALNUTS

Trickett’s Grove organic walnuts are 100% New Zealand grown and BioGro certified. They are rich in healthy omega-3, fibre and essential minerals – and they taste amazing. Head to our online store to buy our new season’s organic in-shell walnuts now! We also sell Trickett’s Grove organic pieces in a handy 300g pack. www.trickettsgrove.nz

NEUDORF BLACK

Come see us in person at Christchurch Go Green Expo 24-25 August for the best prices on NZ’s favourite black garlic. No preservatives or additives, just pure taste and nutrition.

In your kitchen

RIVERSIDE KITCHEN

Central Christchurch

VINEYARD VALLEY FOOD CART

THE BIGGEST LITTLE FOOD CART IN HURUNUI

Come and try our hand crafted meat pies. Slow cooked shredded meat with gravy. Beef, Pork, Lamb, plus Bacon & Egg and our now famous Sausage Rolls. Full range of barista made coffees. Monday - Friday open 4am to 2pm.

Waipara Junction | Ph: 021 0906 5268

DON’T FORGET

Father’sDay

SUNDAY 1 SEPTEMBER

Whether it’s brunch at a favourite cafe, or at home with a selection of local artisan treats, make this Father’s Day extra special!

www.neudorfblack.co.nz

PEBBLES

We provide French-inspired desserts with a chic flair. From éclairs to seasonal tarts and petit gâteaux, our small batch treats are lovingly crafted using the freshest local ingredients. Order online or pop in to our boutique for a treat with coffee. Open Thu-Fri from midday till 6pm. 122 Riccarton Road Opposite Westfield Mall www.eatpebbles.com

MRS DENTON’S

MRS DENTONS

Come and treat yourself to a scrumptious scallop pie or maybe an Italian eggplant pie! Fairlie Bakehouse pies in store too. Fine. Food. Fast.

Takeaway Cafe and Delicatessen Mon-Fri 8.30am-2.30pm

Come and treat yourself to a scrumptious scallop pie or maybe an Italian eggplant pie! Fairlie Bakehouse pies in store too. Fine. Food. Fast. Takeaway Cafe and Delicatessen Mon-Fri 8.30am-2.30pm

168a Kendal Ave, Burnside Ph: 03 357 4516

168a Kendal Ave, Burnside Ph: 03 357 4516 or 027 469 0206

Come and treat yourself to a scrumptious scallop pie or maybe an Italian eggplant pie! Fairlie Bakehouse pies in store too. Fine. Food. Fast. Takeaway Cafe and Delicatessen. Mon-Fri 8.30am-2.30pm Ph. 03 357 4516 027 469 0206 168a Kendal Ave, Burnside

THE BIKKIE JAR

The Bikkie Jar – Your home for Gourmet Shortbread Gift Boxes delivered nationwide. Original Gourmet, no Gluten, Dairy-free, and Keto options available. Use the coupon code Metro15 and save 15% off your next order. All are freshly baked to order.

www.thebikkiejar.co.nz

WHITE HEART

White Heart grows and processes hazelnuts at their property in Tai Tapu. They sell a delicious of range of sweet and savoury products. Enjoy wheat free, vegan friendly goods made without additives. Buy online or visit the Barn. Contact Ann for opening hours.

021 464 244 www.whiteheart.co.nz

home & living

STYLING small spaces

Styling small spaces is, arguably, an art. Finding a home for everything, avoiding over-cluttering, and applying the Marie Kondo method enough so that your space sparks joy.

Small living spaces, motorhomes, and studio apartments can be likened to the idea of ‘quality over quantity’. Having a smaller space is easy to embrace, and fall in love with fewer rooms to clean. The downside, however, can be styling that space if you have too many things and an unclear vision. It can end up cramped and cluttered, becoming a stressful space to live in.

Michelle Bevin, interior designer at TrailLite, has a plethora of tricks up her sleeve in styling small spaces, from years of experience helping people design luxury motorhomes and caravans.

Find Michelle’s top tips for making small spaces appear large and luxurious on the following page.

SAVE OVER $50 BUT GET IN QUICK! Don’t be drag’n your feet

Priced at just $78 for a limited time, this dragon is more than a headphone holder – it’s a piece of art. This legendary friend is made from a special biosourced and biodegradable hard plastic conscious of our environment. Made by Turtle Creations, here in New Zealand, it will elevate any space where you let it nest in.

What is life.. without a lifestyle.

Live your best life with a Technics Lifestyle Speaker system featuring Bluetooth, Wifi, Airplay, Spotify connect, CD player and FM Radio. Visit Soundline today for the full range of Technics Hifi.

ways to style small3

Reflective materials add dimension, crafting a cheeky illusion of much more space than there is. If you find an area feels increasingly cramped, Michelle recommends placing mirrors on walls opposite windows to maximise the reflective impact.

The Marie Kondo method

According to Michelle, giving your space the Marie Kondo method is often crucial. “Take everything out of the space and give it a thorough clean, then only put back items that set your heart alight,” she says. Make it a regular occurrence and clear out—and donate—what you no longer need.

Lighting in layers

Overlooked but incredibly e ective, Michelle says multiple types of light and layering lighting through lamps and LED strip lighting can refresh a space.

“Remember to add dimmer switches so you can increase the light needed or reduce for ambience. Correct lighting will make the spaces seem larger,” she explains.

Rug up in style

Wool comes into its own in winter, so if you are looking to heat things up a bit, check out this Christchurch outlet store that only sells 100% wool carpet area rugs.

The Rugs For All Outlet Store, from Carpet Binders, can be found at Unit 8, 37 Washbournes Road, Sockburn, Christchurch. Michelle MacWilliam, says the outlet only stocks 100% New Zealand wool carpet pieces that can be turned into favourite home, bach, and motorhome accessories.

“Choose your carpet, tell us the size, pick your edging ﬁnish, and collect it the next day. That’s a unique service.”

Michelle, highly respected for her knowledge in the rug industry, adds that Carpet Binders has been a leading rug specialist for more than four decades. It’s a family business that comes with care and expert advice.

“You have a team that understands,” she adds. “Our rugs are warm, a ordable, and available in so many sizes and ﬁnishes.

Quality counts

In almost every area of life, quality comes high on the list of importance, and you can be assured of quality at Rugs For All, says Michelle. “The durability, insulation, stain resistance and thus easy maintenance, and renewable and sustainable credentials of wool rugs make their quality unmatched. Your feet will be treated to absolute cosiness with each step.

You ﬁnd the right ﬁnish

With many carpet edging ﬁnishes, you can enhance any room and add that pop with an area rug tailored to your requirements.

When time is of the essence

Often completed within a 48-hour turnaround, the team is e cient and professional, and, for those that need it, can deliver to your home, or arrange for freight if you live outside of Christchurch.

Only promoting 100% New Zealand wool

Specialising in only 100% wool carpet pieces suitable for turning into carpet area rugs, Rugs For All uses its expertise carefully. They do not dabble in other areas of ﬂooring. Patterned and hand-knotted rugs can only be purchased online.

Serious cookers for serious cooks

Decorative, or both? practical

BY NINA TUCKER

Sizes, shapes, and scents–candles are a superior interior design addition. There are so many ways to use candles in your home. Fill space, add texture and playfulness, match neutrals or add splashes of colour, and utilise candlestick holders too.

Stay safe

If you use candles for practicality and decorative beauty, avoid burn time longer than four hours, and keep drafts, clothing, and air currents at a distance.

Fruity, sweet, fresh Delicious scents are like a bite from a sweet morsel, and their calming properties soothe the senses.

1. Candle Stick holder, Total Food Equipment. 2. Love Ally x Bed Threads Wave candle, Bed Threads. 3. Find candles in all shapes and sizes. 4. Fireside in Queenstown candle, Glasshouse Fragrances. 5. Wonky pillar, Blow My Wick.

1. Proudly restoring your loved pieces of furniture, Seaton’s French Polishing & Furniture Repairs, 2. Wrendale Shopping List Pads, available at Art & Frame, 3. Beautiful Custom Furniture, expertly made at Gavin Cox Furniture, 4. Green Wood leather bags and wallets, Perfect for Father’s Day, available at Exquisite Gifts by AJ, 5. CIRCA Alchemy, neutralise unwanted odours from your hands and home, available at Coco Gifts, 6. Amoura Summer Vibes Di user, available from Belish Boutique.

Solid timber furniture A fantastic range of traditional and contemporary furniture designs. We can also help you with any custom made furniture requirements.

Participate in Pawgust

This August, boost your ﬁtness and the funds needed to support Blind Low Vision NZ Guide Dogs.

Afundraising and awareness initiative, Pawgust challenges participants to run or walk, dog alongside or not, every day throughout August.

The time spent walking is an opportunity to consider the needs of Guide Dogs and their clients. “Unlike typical pet dogs, Guide Dogs must endure all weather conditions—rain, sun, snow, or shine—to assist their handlers. They navigate through bustling pavements, street crossings, e-bikes, and scooters, ensuring their handler’s safety,” says Andrea Midgen, chief executive of Blind Low Vision NZ.

Creating accessible and inclusive public spaces is an important aspect of the Pawgust movement,

prioritising safety on shared footpaths.

It’s not too late to start, by gathering sponsorships from friends and family to continue the breeding, training, and raising of Guide Dogs, who o er “freedom and independence to people with low vision or blindness”, Andrea adds. Encourage those around you to get involved, and make a di erence in more ways than one, at pawgust.co.nz

Lace-up, leash up, and brave the cold this month in support of Blind Low Vision NZ Guide Dogs. Providing New Zealanders who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision with the practical and emotional support needed to live life without limits, the team behind Blind Low Vision NZ are local heroes.

gardening

Goingnative

Attracting native birds into your garden may be as easy as planting a few speciﬁc tree species, adding a bird bath, and providing the right food.

Tui, fantails, kererū, and even kingﬁshers will visit regularly if garden conditions are right. Many native bird species face extinction, or are already extinct. As urban jungles increase and buildings replace trees, you can make up for the losses by creating your own bird sanctuary at home. Here are some ideas:

Make a bird feeder

A sugar water feeder is a great bird magnet. Using a bowl or an inverted bottle (somewhere high away from cats) will have the birds visiting before you know it.

Just dissolve half a cup of sugar in about four cups of water, but don’t make it any stronger than that or you risk attracting wasps or getting the birds drunk.

Be aware that some foods are not good for our native birds.

Peanuts and walnuts may contain fungal toxins called aﬂatoxins. In low doses these can a ect fertility and immunity and in high doses can cause liver and kidney failure. Sunﬂower seeds can cause obesity and feather loss. Bread is highly processed and a bird’s digestive system is not designed to digest it. It can result in impaction in the intestines, dehydration and ultimately death.

According to Zealandia, you should avoid: honey water, bread, corn, peanuts, sunﬂower seeds, walnuts, junk food, too much of anything, and mouldy food.

Encourage insects

Many birds, such as pīwakawaka (fantail), eat insects. A good layer of mulch or leaf litter on the garden will encourage insects, and birds are a natural way of keeping them under control. Ruru (morepork) and kōtare (kingﬁsher) eat insects as well as mice.

Add a birdbath

Many birds will use a bird bath if there’s one available, especially in summer. Watching them splash about can be very entertaining. Make your own or buy one from your garden centre.

Ensure that it is not accessible to cats, but still easy enough to get to for cleaning and reﬁlling. Rinse and a scrub regularly to keep the water fresh and the birds happy.

Plant for the birds

Plant favoured bird foods such as flax and kōwhai, but not too close to the house because reflections on glass can confuse birds and cause them to fly into your windows. Tui love to feast on flax flowers, and it’s easy to grow.

Some native birds have wisely become wary of feeding on the ground. Think about growing ground creepers such as Fuchsia procumbens in a hanging basket, which with red berries hanging down are beautiful and attractive for birds. Climbing plants like Metrosideros carminea (crimson rata) and Passiﬂora tetrandra (NZ passionfruit) are also good to encourage to climb the wall of a garage, in a tree or across other garden structures.

• Source: Greenpeace

Native trees, shrubs and climbers that look attractive in the garden and also provide shelter and food for wildlife include:

Cabbage trees

Coprosma species

Griselinia

Fuchsia

Rewa Rewa

Pittosporums

Kōwhai

Five ﬁngers

Wineberry

Mānuka

New Zealand ﬂaxes

Kākābeak

Corokia

Hebes

New Zealand irises

Creating predator-free properties

To create a sanctuary for native birds and other wildlife in your backyard means managing predators.

Stoats, rats, weasels, possums, cats, and hedgehogs prey on birds, including their eggs and nestlings, and on other small creatures. If you want to keep the birds ﬂourishing, and other wildlife enjoying your property, then controlling pests is important.

Cats (and dogs) are cute, but they are no friend to native birds, or to the skinks, geckos and wētā possibly living in your gardens. Keep the cat inside at night, and set traps or use bait stations to rid your garden of rats and mice.

Setting appropriate traps is an obvious way to manage pests and predators here. Another option is to buy or build your garden’s precious inhabitants a tiny house so they have a safe haven when danger is imminent. Encourage insects such as wētā, beetles, and solitary native bees by building or buying a wētā house or an insect palace; a special place that’s made up of lots of tunnels and tubes and nooks and crannies, for them to hide in during the day.

Domestic cats are one of the biggest threats to native birds, lizards, bats and insects, with growing calls for them to be kept indoors, and on a leash if outside. Another option is screened-in porches or outdoor cat enclosures (sometimes known as ‘catios’), which can make your cat feel like they are outside without exposing them to any outside dangers.

Helping hands

Christchurch has a number of groups that work to keep neighbourhoods predator-free. They’re also eager to help individuals achieve the same end result for their private gardens and holdings.

Helpful websites are:

• predatorfreenz.org

• trap.nz - to make contact with your local group

• doc.govt.nz

Living in Uncertain Times

Whether it’s due to my occupation or my natural disposition, I frequently find myself in the role of an observer and, without a doubt, what I am noticing most clearly at the current time is an absence of certainty in the lives of many people.

Whilst it’s easy to minimise the challenges that uncertainty creates or the burden it places on individuals, its impact can be substantial – in some situations even debilitating.

Experts in human behavior confirm this and my own research has had me examining both the consequences of the stress of uncertainty and some of the reasons for feeling that life is more precarious than usual right now. This includes causes that are within an individual’s control – and ones outside it.

Largely outside our control are financial issues due to the current cost of living crisis, concerns regarding political turmoil and numerous wars raging throughout the world. There are also unprecedented weather extremes and impacts of global warming, as well as our relationships, job insecurity and many more factors. The list is both long and familiar.

In the current real estate market, uncertainty is impacting on many situations as people adjust to factors like higher interest rates affecting

their ability to cope with mortgage payments, as well as altered employment prospects for some. Now, more than ever, it’s critical that your chosen real estate professional provides insightful, current and empathetic advice. I think that’s why some consultants flourish in difficult environments such as the one we’re in now, given their ability to guide others through a mix of hefty emotions against a backdrop of complex and difficult situations.

So aside from the real estate strategies that are part of my everyday life, how best can you move forward and avoid finding yourself lost in this often erratic and deeply uncertain world of ours?

Amongst the numerous recommendations I found the following solutions, all of them relatively easy to utilise.

They start with improving your physical health, including your psychological wellbeing. Being well rested and eating a diet that doesn’t rely on too much sugar or additives. Exercise is not only desirable, it’s essential as another prerequisite for upping your resilience.

These are things you can control and it’s hoped that by simplifying these aspects of your life you’ll be able to build a buffer against some of the external anxieties that come along.

Look for joy rather than hunting out what’s negative. I do this constantly and find the gentle art of journaling and being grateful a definite help in this area.

I recently saw a family scene that provided me with a wonderful sense of joy. Two sons with their mother waiting at the dentist reading books! And obviously enjoying the practice not endlessly scrolling through social media. I haven’t seen that for so long and it felt so incredibly natural and precious.

Another recommendation is to focus on the present, on that which you can control. Stay in the moment and resist the urge to dive too far into the future with everything it might hold. Who knows? What you might be most concerned about may never happen.

Finally, it helps to recognise that although many aspects of uncertainty are difficult to tolerate, it’s also an opportunity to develop resilience, grow new skills and hopefully find out something special about yourself or others.

Good luck as you continue to navigate this ever-changing world of ours.

Lynette McFadden Harcourts gold Business Owner

Scott Base New plan for redevelopment

The most recent plan is to build a new accommodation and living building, to refurbish the Hillary Field Centre, to scope a third building for workshops, plant and machinery, and to extend the life of current buildings where practicable.

An Independent Review Panel of construction, engineering and large project experts recommended using a small modular construction methodology that allows for containerised delivery and conventional shipping to Antarctica. Some of the new construction will be conventional framing built onsite.

The new plan means Antarctica New Zealand will not proceed with the proposed three-building design, using a large module construction methodology. Transport of the modules was considered to carry too great a risk and the need for fewer new buildings made it less viable economically.

Antarctica New Zealand’s board chair, Leon Grice, says the decision by the board in 2023 to pause and undertake options

Antarctica New Zealand is resetting its Scott Base Redevelopment project.

analysis paved the way for the Independent Review.

“This work has allowed the board to resolve a way forward with conﬁdence and ensure we deliver the redevelopment scope within the budget set aside in the Government’s tagged contingency.

“We are re-establishing governance oversight and the project team, revising the design work and commencing detailed costings.

“We are highly focused on providing a year-round safe and functional base for our sta and the scientists we support who undertake world-class science,” Leon says.

Antarctica New Zealand Chief Executive, Sarah Williamson, says the reasons to redevelop Scott Base remain.

“New Zealand needs safe and ﬁt-for-purpose infrastructure that can withstand extreme conditions and support world leading science. Antarctica is extreme, remote, and unforgiving. We need a fully self-su cient o -the-grid building for the coldest, windiest, harshest place on Earth.

“Our goal is to turn the key in the 2028/29 season.”

The Scott Base Redevelopment was paused in 2023 because the cost to build and deliver the three interconnected buildings exceeded the $498 million budgeted.

Image: Scott Base 2023 by Anthony Powell Antarctica New Zealand

Construction costs fall

New Zealand’s residential construction industry has recorded its ﬁrst drop in new build house construction costs in 12 years.

The latest Cordell Construction Cost Index (CCCI) revealed a 1.1% decrease in the three months to June.

The decline marks a signiﬁcant milestone in the history of the CCCI series, which has tracked the cost to build a standard single-storey, three-bedroom, two-bathroom brick and tile standalone dwelling since 2012.

CoreLogic Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson says the decline follows the industry’s completion of a surge in building consents and resolution of Covid-19 supply chain disruptions, with the subsequent quieter period reducing construction cost growth below long-term averages.

The outright fall in building costs in the second quarter also meant the annual growth rate slowed from 2.3% in Q1 2024 to 0.6%, a new record low for this indicator. The previous mark was 2.0% in Q2 2014.

“The downturn in workloads in the construction sector has eased the pressure on capacity and that’s ﬂowed through to reduced building costs,” Mr Davidson said.

“Coupled with a slowdown in the growth of average hourly wage rates, the ﬂattening of building materials costs has also caused a reversal in trends from the rapid growth in construction costs in the past few years.”

The CCCI recorded falls across several important materials, including structural steel and kitchen joinery. Costs for tapware and electrical light ﬁxtures also fell.

Mr Davidson had anticipated that growth in the CCCI would be subdued and wasn’t shocked at the falls given the construction industry’s soft operating conditions.

“Construction costs spiked during 2022 due to lingering Covida ected supply chain issues, as well as a boom in construction activity as dwelling consents peaked around that same period,” he says.

“Those factors have all now been resolved with material supply back to normal, dwelling consents falling and the pipeline of jobs coming to completion. This has alleviated signiﬁcant pressure on the industry, freeing up capacity and reducing costs.”

This is a modern and spacious 2 bedroom, 65m2 home. Perfectly suited as a secondary dwelling or an additional income stream. Contact Versatile Christchurch today!

hours: Mon - Fri: 8.30am - 5.00pm, Sat - Sun: 12.00pm - 4.00pm. P: 03 348 8704

GOLD award for cancer centre

Cook Brothers Construction has won a prestigious Commercial Building Gold Award for the Canterbury Cancer Society’s new centre in Christchurch.

The New Zealand Commercial Building Awards celebrate construction projects that demonstrate exceptional design, innovation, and sustainability standards. The cancer centre award recognised outstanding success in construction excellence, with the accolade placing the centre among the top-tier commercial projects in New Zealand, showcasing its excellence in construction and commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities for cancer care.

Designed by architect David Hill, of Wilson and Hill Architects, the new Canterbury Cancer Centre o ers comprehensive support for families impacted by cancer. The centre replaces the facility that was destroyed in the 2011 earthquake. It features an o ce admininstration area, reception, clinical assessment rooms, function room available for rental, and 50 accommodation rooms for families travelling for treatment.

“Wilson and Hill Architects are honoured to have played a role in bringing this transformative project to life,” says company associate James Arps. “The center is testament to the Cancer Society’s forward-thinking vision of unifying their services under one roof and providing for other aligned organisations and health professionals.

“It embodies their commitment to providing not just holistic care, but a welcoming, home-like environment for their guests. We are proud to be part of a team that has helped turn this ambitious vision into a tangible, supportive space for those who need it most.”

The project faced numerous setbacks that were overcome by the Cook Brothers Construction team, including the Covid-19 pandemic which presented signiﬁcant workforce challenges. The centre’s design features, including three-level pre-cast panels and a smart passive ﬁre system, demonstrate remarkable construction ingenuity. Sustainability was incorporated throughout, with material repurposing, reducing waste, and adopting eco-friendly methods.

Nicola Coom, the Southern Cancer Society’s chief executive, says the organisation is “thrilled” that the project has been recognised in this way.

“This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and expertise of the entire team,” says Nicola. “Our goal has always been to provide the best possible environment for cancer care and accommodation, and this award validates our e orts and commitment to excellence.”

Numerous contractors worked on the project, including Beattie Air. Chief executive o cer Dominic Ball described it as a hugely successful collaboration. Beattie Air installed a Mitsubishi Hybrid HVRF System into the multi-storey building, ensuring future-prooﬁng for the structure.

“We overcame unique challenges with limited space for above-ceiling services through clever design alterations, enabling a smooth installation process,” he adds.

The centre o cially opened in October 2023. Its modern facilities have been designed to operate as a hub for the community to access a wide range of cancer support services. Currently it is home to the Southern Cancer Society, Encompass Health, Prostate Cancer Foundation, Blue Brothers and others.

Project partners included:

Cook Brothers Construction (Construction Company), Brendan Blackmur Consulting (Quantity Surveyor), Powell Fenwick (Engineer), Quoin Structural Consultants (Structural Engineer), TSA Management (Project Manager), and Wilson and Hill Architects (Architect/Designer).

PHIL MAUGER CHRISTCHURCH CITY | MAYOR

Transport funding

It’s great to see the days starting to get longer again and know that we’re getting closer to warmer weather—even if it is still a wee way off.

The longer days will soon mean that our contractors will be back out on the streets, working on resealing and repairing roads, footpaths and cycleways.

This work on transport is crucial as we all need to be able to get around our city for work, school, shopping and the like.

Yet, how we choose to travel can cause a bit of a debate these days.

There is a strong tension between making it easier for cars and trucks to get around, versus sacriﬁcing tra c lanes for cycleways and buses.

I’m sure it’s a discussion everyone has had recently with friends, family and co-workers. It will soon also be a debate for our council.

Government funding for transport—money from the fuel levies and taxes we pay—is changing. The Minister wants a greater focus on reducing congestion and repairing existing roads.

During September/October, our council will ﬁnd out what our share of this funding is and what the Government is prepared to help us pay for over the next few years.

As a council, we will need to decide on what we invest in the coming years, and ﬁnalise our transport programme.

This will have a big impact on how everyone gets around Christchurch and Banks Peninsula, and will be a big focus for us as the weather warms up.

ALISON ADAMS CHRISTCHURCHNZ | CEO

One of my favourite New Zealand ﬁlms is Sir Peter Jackson’s 1994 classic Heavenly Creatures.

Dark subject matter aside, it did a wonderful job of capturing a 1950s Christchurch look and feel, and rightfully gained international accolades. It also paved the way for the careers of Kate Winslet and Melanie Lynskey and put Sir Peter ﬁrmly on Hollywood’s radar.

It’s one reason I’m excited by Screen CanterburyNZ securing additional funding from Christchurch City Council for the region’s Screen Production Grant. The funding provides $100,000 until June 2025, and an additional $300,000 from July 2025 to June 2026. These funds are on top of the $200,000 still available from the previous grant, meaning more than half a million dollars is available to attract productions to Waitaha Canterbury.

This is exciting news for Ōtautahi Christchurch’s creative economy. Screen CanterburyNZ’s role is to strengthen the screen sector and promote Canterbury as an attractive and accessible ﬁlming location to domestic and international productions.

The production grant—the ﬁrst regional incentive of its kind in Aotearoa—and Screen CanterburyNZ was allocated $1.5 million of funding over three years from 2022 to 2024. That funding delivered signiﬁcant return on investment— over $14 million in total spend in the region from production activity. But it’s not just the economic value—those productions displayed the capability in Canterbury and the South Island as well as building on positive perceptions of our national industry.

We need more Canterbury-made stories on screen. They strengthen our creative economy, unearth exciting new talent—and occasionally get us priceless international attention.

LEEANN WATSON BUSINESS CANTERBURY | CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Business workshop

As organisations across Canterbury face an extended period of change, we want to ensure that we are providing our business community with the tools and knowledge to not just survive but look at growth opportunities through these challenging times.

Today’s leaders are called upon to wear multiple hats - caring for their own and others’ wellbeing, creating sustainable business practices, remaining realistic and optimistic about the future, and being agile enough to jump on opportunities as they arise. It’s a tall order.

To help—we have put together a Navigating Business Change programme, a ﬁrst for Business Canterbury, and made possible through the generous support of our Strategic Partners Westpac, the University of Canterbury, Enable, Orion, and 2degrees.

The half-day workshop on September 19 brings together world-renowned experts Dr Lucy Hone and Dr Denise Quinlan, who both specialise in helping organisations face challenge and change right across the world.

It is tailored for those of you who are genuinely seeking ways to navigate change. Whether you’re a managing director wrestling with strategic decisions, an HR professional shaping organisational culture, or running a small business looking for practical, no-budget tools to prevent sta burnout—you will get stacks of value from attending.

Spaces are limited, and thanks to our strategic partners, the investment to attend the workshop has been subsidised. You can ﬁnd out more about the programme or book using this link: www.cecc.org.nz/navigating-business-change.

ASBESTOS REMOVAL

ROSS STEELE TE PAE CHRISTCHURCH | GENERAL MANAGER

Business events beneﬁts

Business events are proving to be a catalyst for increased demand in our local hotel sector, showing the signiﬁcant impact that strategic urban projects have on private investment.

As a Crown-led project, Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre has notably spurred growth in our city, as we see the unveiling of three new hotels in recent months, with three more on the horizon. Among these are the redevelopment of the former Noah’s hotel on Oxford Terrace and a new hotel on the old Harley Chambers site.

Currently, Canterbury has approximately 4000 hotel rooms, including 2600 in 27 central city hotels. Recently opened hotels such as Quest on Kilmore, and Drifter, have further enriched our accommodation o erings.

The resurgence in demand for guest lodging has surpassed pre-Covid levels. Since opening two years ago, business events held at Te Pae Christchurch have been pivotal for our city’s hotels, particularly during the typically quieter months of March to November. These events have directly contributed to an estimated 200,000 additional hotel nights booked.

Conferences attract international delegates, with almost a third extending their stay by 2-4 days to explore our city and region alongside their partners or families. And with an increasing number of ﬂight routes to Christchurch, our city has become even more accessible and appealing as a destination to host international conferences.

Looking ahead, the future of Ōtautahi Christchurch looks bright, and we eagerly await the opening of Te Kaha and Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre. These developments will further enhance our city’s allure, bringing even more reasons for people to visit our rejuvenated city and attract more private investment.

Innovative Products

New products for your building or home.

Almost daily, cutting edge and innovative new products for home and building projects come on to the market. From foundations to walls to roofs, insulation to cladding, and every product in between, there is so much choice.

Research has shown that Kiwis are among the ﬁrst to embrace new technology, avant garde products, and ingenious creations, and these pages are designed to show you some of what’s on o er in Christchurch and beyond.

Globally, the construction industry is undergoing rapid changes because of the adoption of innovative design approaches, technologies, and materials. New Zealand’s construction sector is learning from the best practices of other countries, as well as coming up with its own innovations.

A focus on sustainability means current key trends include the use of green and sustainable materials like bio-based and recycled products, the development of self-healing materials, and the application of 3D printing for construction.

Introducing Homey. Today more than ever we perceive how important it is to have a comfortable and cosy home. The Homey collection is an ideal way to create a homey house through its warm materiality. We stock the Homey Cotto & Homey Cloudy in 598x1198mm which can be used in conjunction with Homey Clay Stripes or Homey Powder Stripes to create surfaces that evoke the warm materiality of clay, but in a contemporary material with the resistance qualities of porcelain stoneware.

03 366 8187 brymactiles.co.nz

Architectural steel and glass door specialists based in Christchurch o ering a range of door styles. Choose from our pivot, hinge or sliding range to add a touch of elegance and functionality to your home. Steel frame mixed with your choice of glass will certainly enhance your area creating dramatic transitions between rooms, allowing natural light to ﬁlter through creating a spacious feel.

Wilford Walker doors manufactured by Division Engineering.

03 379 3484 | wilfordwalker.co.nz

TRENZSEATER has designed and introduced their own hardware collection, which is made from solid brass and features exquisite, knurled detailing in brushed brass, oil-rubbed bronze and matt black electroplated ﬁnishes. TRENZSEATER has the entire Atelier collection available and stocked in New Zealand to avoid any delays with supply for your projects. The range includes cabinet pull bars, door levers, and privacy locks.

zero-silica INTRODUCING ENGINEERED STONE

Christchurch-based stone benchtop fabricator AGB is continuing its ﬁght against silicosis by being the ﬁrst in the country to supply zero-silica engineered stone.

Afamily-run business in Hornby South, AGB was the ﬁrst New Zealand business to ban high-silica engineered stone, and has now gone one step further with its new zero-silica engineered stone slabs expected to arrive in New Zealand in September 2024.

“If low-silica was the revolution, zero is the evolution. It’s actually not that big of a step to make. This is the next advancement of us being at the forefront of health and safety of workers – and our customers,” says company co-owner Cam Paranthoiene. “We have driven this stance with our suppliers because it’s important for our industry.”

Cam and co-owner Christine Paranthoiene have created proprietary processes, and invested millions of dollars in state-of-the-art machinery, and been early adopters of wetcutting and air monitoring as a safeguard against the potentiallyfatal lung disease silicosis.

As part of phasing out high-silica slabs, they stopped working with suppliers who chose not to meet the company’s standards of less than 40% silica, and now say they will work with only those suppliers who commit to transition to zero-silica in its engineered stone range.

“There’s still so much high and low-silica engineered stone in the market – and it’s being heavily-discounted – so we will only work with suppliers who have committed to transitioning out of both product lines to zero-silica.”

The Australian government has imposed a total ban on engineered stone following a 2021 report that claimed one in four stonemasons or joiners working with fabricated stone before 2018 had been diagnosed with silicosis. The ban took e ect from 1 July 2024, however fabricators have until the end of 2024 to fulﬁl pre-orders.

The scale of the danger of silicosis from dust emitted when stone is dry cut or polished was not fully known in the New Zealand industry until 2019. The New Zealand Engineered Stone Advisory Group (NZESAG), supported by ACC and WorkSafe was established that year to ensure the safe practice guidelines for stone fabricators.

WorkSafe previously estimated 60,000 engineered stone slabs are imported each year, and there are believed to be approximately 130 businesses that fabricate them into benchtops for kitchens, bathrooms and commercial premises.

Cardrona ALPINE VILLAGE

The keys to the ﬁrst completed home at Central Otago’s Mt Cardrona Station development were handed over to its proud new owners earlier this month.

In what’s being hailed as a “signiﬁcant milestone” for the 400-hectare alpine village, there are 13 homes under construction this winter. Leuschke Group Architects Colin and Lindy Leuschke are the ﬁrst to receive keys to their new home situated above the Cardrona Valley.

The Leuschke family has been involved with Mt Cardrona Station’s development for many years as the creative team behind a range of architecturally designed homes for some of the station neighbourhoods.

“Seeing a number of homes coming to completion and many more in the planning stages is very exciting for us,” says Colin.“It’s a bonus and privilege that ours is the ﬁrst to complete.”

Spending many winter seasons skiing in Central Otago, Colin and Lindy became enamoured with the region, its proximity to ski resorts, hiking trails, golf courses, and

“the simple pleasures of Otago’s hospitality”.

Five more homes are expected to be completed by October 2024, and work has also begun on the ﬁrst phase of The Homestead village hub, incorporating the members’ clubroom, meeting and remote working facilities, gym and workout spaces, and three outdoor hot pools.

The $10 million architecturally crafted landmark building overlooks a tarn, has breath-taking views of the valley and surrounding mountains and is set to be the heart of the village.

Arrowtown-based architect Luke Leuschke, one of Colin and Lindy’s sons, has designed many of the buildings at Mt Cardrona Station including Soho homes and The Homestead. He says his designs for all of the properties are inﬂuenced by historical agricultural building types from the region, and are constructed using traditional materials.

On vacation every day

Owning a Kiwi bach is an ongoing dream for many, although thousands have already taken the plunge, spending weekends relaxing in their own, or a hired, home away from home.

Concurrent with recent changes in building regulations and a deeper focus on sustainability, have come several noticeable, quite substantial shifts in buyer wishlists. Amongst these are location, size and use.

John Stewart, Christchurch-based head of the National Builder Network for Lockwood Homes, says many people are choosing to build their holiday homes within 90 minutes of their primary residence. They are avoiding popular tourist spots like The Sounds, Mackenzie Country, Wanaka, and Queenstown.

“This ‘close to home desire’ was a feature of the early 1980s, but now the focus is on cosy, smaller, very open plan and cost-e cient designs on relatively small pieces of land,” John adds. “Though that’s not to say the larger, bespoke homes away from home aren’t being built; they are, yet in the big tourist centres.” Another shift noted is the move amongst farmers to add high-end studios and cottages targeting the very popular farmstay market.

“There’s a lot of interest in small beach enclaves between Christchurch and Goose Bay near Kaikōura, places like Staveley, Methven environs, and Castle Hill. Downsizers are selecting more well serviced towns including Geraldine, Kaiapoi and Oxford and some of the satellite villages close to Darﬁeld.

“This shift has been timely for us, as we recently released the (pictured) 99 square metre two-bedroom two-bathroom Vacationer plan which is in hot demand and on display in Hornby,” says John. “We have two smaller versions of the same plan, too.”

As with new builds across New Zealand and Australia, the average size of newbuilds has dropped, from over 200 square metres to less

Expertly crafted from sustainably sourced NZ timber, a Lockwood home is warm, dry and designed with quality living in mind.

Vacationer and Madrid show homes

431 Main South Road Hornby, Christchurch

lockwood.co.nz 0508 Lockwood 03 344 0299

than 140 square metres, something Lockwood has noted too. Project times are variable, provided Geotech testing doesn’t throw up any major issues. If the client has a favourite Lockwood plan, pre consent and consent processing can be completed in two to three months, and then the components are manufactured in the company’s Rotorua factory before an average four month build.

WHY A LOCKWOOD HOME

Building with Lockwood means choosing a trusted name in innovative, solid timber and low maintenance, sustainable home construction, known for delivering high-quality, uniquely designed homes that stand the test of time, cyclones and earthquakes. They can build to your plan or choose from one of their many exciting designs.

See for yourself

The Vacationer (pictured below) is a stylish, large twobedroom home from the company’s ReadyBuilt series. View it at the Lockwood South Island Regional O ce 431 Main South Road, Hornby, Christchurch Open Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm Sunday 1pm – 4pm (Closed Saturday and public holidays)

Christchurch

Crafting homes that grow with you

It’s not often you can build a stylish home with locally sourced materials for a reasonable price. It’s even rarer to build a home that can grow as you do.

Christchurch-based Durasteel Structures create custom-made, premium quality panel homes.

You can choose a 1-2 bedroom pod, a 1-4 bedroom home, or add to your existing home. Another beneﬁt is that you can build for what you need right now, and extend in the future as needed, while keeping the same look and quality. For example, a two-bedroom home can come with a built-in design to add a pod to the main structure.

“We’ve had a lot of interest in the homes – there’s a real push that I can see coming, and that is already here to a large extent, on smaller homes and a ordability. People are seeking an alternative at the moment and the way I see it is that we are ﬁrmly a part of that alternative,” director Brent Collins says.

They build homes made to last. Using steel frames for their renowned strength and versatility makes them ideal for withstanding New Zealand’s varying environmental conditions.

Made using PIR panels, which are designed to be installed as rigid insulation, they provide superior building thermal performance. You’ll be getting a home that is lightweight, yet durable and easily relocatable.

Each home is built above the building code and is warm,

energy-e cient, and airtight. More importantly, you’ll have a modern cosy, beautiful place to call your own. Alternatively, you could add a self-contained ‘granny ﬂat’ to your property or build an idyllic batch to relax and unwind in.

“The nature of the materials we use means we have a brilliantly fast build time. We can often be complete in approximately 10 weeks,” says Brent.

The team recently started working on some display homes at their Islington location, so you can pop by and see examples in the ﬂesh. The interior can be customised to your taste, so by viewing the homes you’ll be able to pick up some great inspiration.

“People want to go ahead and put in all sorts of di erent interiors – it’s a very di erent way of constructing structures. They often ask if they can see one, which is a fair question. Now they can touch it, see it and understand it, so it’s a critical move for us and it’s ﬁnally coming to fruition.”

If you’d like to get cracking on your new home, get in touch with the team at Durasteel today.

durasteel.co.nz

Your paradise patio

Spring is only weeks away and the thought of longer daylight hours and accessing our outdoor spaces once again is a delightful prospect.

Gazing out the window, tidied garden beds and clipped hedges make for a pleasing view; however, the one jarring note is the patio furniture. The deck chairs are sagging, faded and worn, and the sun-shade looks so pitiful that it is put straight back into the darkest corner of the shed.

Leena Budhia of Kolorful Kanvas advises people to plan ahead and use winter’s downtime to bring in their tired outdoor furniture for a makeover. “There is no need to throw away well-constructed furniture when all it takes is an attractive new fabric to make them look amazing again,” Leena says.

While a fresh new fabric signiﬁcantly enhances the appearance of outdoor furniture, equally important is strong and serviceable material. The fact that this business produces superior canvas products made here in Christchurch by a team of highly skilled artisans, and has done so since 1975, assures customers the work carried out is nothing less than of bespoke quality.

Another forward-planning way to preserve outdoor furniture and outdoor accessories is to think about investing in covers. Leena points out that as the spring/summer season can be a long one. Sudden changes in weather can punish outdoor furniture,

so it makes sense to have protective covers on standby. Protective covers also make for ideal storing and overwintering of outdoor furniture, ensuring fabrics remain dirt and dust-free, and are shielded from any surrounding shed paraphernalia that might cause damage. Alongside deck chairs and sun canopies, here is where to bring your tired cushions and faded squabs for a fresh face-lift.

Custom-made items are a huge component of the business, from boat covers, sail shades, sun-blinds and enclosures through to motorised awnings, ﬁxed frame canopies, and so much more.

“No job is too big or small, be that a commercial or residential project, and we happily work alongside architects, contractors and engineers, should that be required,” Leena says.

A no obligation measure and quote service within Christchurch sees one of the experienced team onsite to consult with customers and o er expert advice and solutions to achieve their vision.

“Kolorful Kanvas takes pride in delivering the same premium customer service today as we did 49 years ago. With next year marking the business’ 50th anniversary, I think we can safely say we must be doing something right.”

•

A Christchurch energy expert has called for the Commerce Commission to start promoting incentives for energy eﬃciency.

Chris Mardon, managing director of Christchurch energy e ciency company Ecobulb, says the Commerce Act clearly states that the Commerce Commission must promote incentives for energy e ciency, yet actually does nothing to encourage it.

“According to the Commission’s own documents, ‘Under section 54Q of the Commerce Act, the Commission must promote incentives, and avoid imposing disincentives for electricity lines suppliers to invest in energy e ciency, demand-side management, and reduction in energy losses’,” he says.

In a submission on the Commission’s recent draft decision on future regulation of lines companies, he says there is nothing in it that will incentivise or obligate electricity lines companies to promote e ciency. “In other words, nothing will changeenergy e ciency will continue to be disincentivised in the new default price quality path applying from 2025.

“The Commission doesn’t allow lines companies to recover any money spent in the short term on energy e ciency. Similarly, it doesn’t allow lines companies to include energy e ciency in regulated asset bases and therefore recover spending over the long term,” Chris says.

“The double whammy means it is not economic for lines companies to help their customers invest in energy e ciency, so they understandably don’t. This fact is starkly obvious in the information which lines companies provide to the commission each year. Spending on energy e ciency is close to zero, proving there are no incentives to encourage e ciency.”

He says electricity distribution businesses should be obligated and incentivised to invest in energy e ciency activities which beneﬁt their residential and commercial customers. This has become even more important following the cancellation of the vast majority of the Government’s funding for residential and commercial energy e ciency.

“While the Commission’s draft decision allows a 50 percent uplift in network revenues, it should also encourage networks to spend on energy e ciency projects, as these provide greater reductions overall in consumer bills. Energy e ciency also lowers peak loads, energy volumes, and carbon emissions.”

Ecobulb’s submission strongly recommends that the Commission allocate half of its proposed Innovation and Non-Traditional Solutions Fund to energy e ciency, increase the size of the fund to ﬁve percent of revenues, and simplify and clarify rules around what qualiﬁes as spending on energy e ciency.

Did you know?

Approximately 25 million

Ecobulbs are already installed in an estimated 3.4 million New Zealand, Australian and United States homes, saving an estimated $6 billion in electricity and 19 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emission reductions.

Sealed with confidence

For 20 years now, one amazing watertight product has been safeguarding New Zealand homes. That product is EcoTUFF TPO, a thermoplastic polyoleﬁn membrane, pioneered in New Zealand by Christchurch-based company Sealco Waterprooﬁng.

Suitable for almost any area that needs waterprooﬁng, the EcoTUFF TPO system includes heat welded accessories to ensure water-tightness in all roof areas. This includes low-slope and pitched roofs, gutters, parapets, pond liners, balconies, under ﬂoating decks, and on commercial, residential, and roof gardens.

First in the New Zealand market to o er EcoTUFF TPO when it was introduced in 2004, Sealco has since then expanded its range so it can create solutions to prevent any form of damp from undermining the integrity and durability of a structure.

Once you have nurtured your project through the development of the concept, the detail drawings and speciﬁcations, and ﬁnally to the excitement of construction, the last thing you need is to see all that energy, e ort and investment ruined by overlooking a small, but vital consideration such as water-tightness.

With its head o ce in Christchurch, plus a warehouse in Auckland, Sealco o ers an extensive range of waterprooﬁng membrane systems, backed up by professional service and sensible warranties.

“We make it our business to ensure your project is completely protected from the e ects of water,” says Sealco Managing Director Je Fitness. “Waterprooﬁng is the only thing we do. That means we can o er you a wealth of experience and knowledge for all construction and maintenance projects from residential to large commercial.”

Proven results

Making customers’ buildings watertight is the company’s primary focus. “Our aim is to provide competitive, valuefor-money solutions without compromising the technical integrity of the system,” says Je .

“We have developed a suite of products backed by a quality management system for application that, together, deliver fail-safe results.

“We work with you through all stages of your project from design, including the development of the speciﬁcation and installation details, right through to system installation. Together we determine the most durable solution.

“We then work with Sealco’s fully trained application specialists to ensure they meet our rigorous installation standards.

“Product quality and installation is one of the most important aspects to the ongoing water-tightness of buildings,” Je adds.

“To gain quality control over the application process, the company operates a full and ongoing comprehensive training and assessment programme for its applicators, issuing them with independently approved applicator certiﬁcation. Ongoing assessments and inspections of applicators’ work are carried out regularly.”

EcoTUFF TPO pioneers in NZ

Working with EcoTUFF TPO for two decades means the Sealco team are experts at what they do.

When installed by an approved applicator to its speciﬁcations, and as part of the Sealco complete system, the company provides clients with both material and performance warranties.

“Each individual product in our range is covered by a manufacturer-backed warranty that warrants the materials performance in service ranging from 15 to 25 years depending on the product and system provided,” explains Je .

“Our full system warranty covers both membrane and workmanship on the complete installed waterprooﬁng system by an approved Sealco Ltd installer.”

EcoTUFF TPO was introduced to New Zealand in 2004.

The EcoTUFF TPO thermoplastic polyoleﬁn membrane is a co-polymer of polypropylene and ethylene propylene rubber that has been formed into a membrane sheet and reinforced with a heavy duty polyester scrim. This means you get a ﬂexible rubberised material with the ability to be heat welded for permanent secure detailing.

WarmSEAL is a rooﬁng system that has the insulation installed above the structure with the waterprooﬁng membrane installed directly over the insulation. The system is designed to keep the outer of the building insulated and “warm” from the external elements, and to keep cold or hot external climatic conditions isolated, while ensuring desired temperatures inside the building. It is especially suitable where there may not be any space for the standard internal insulation system within a roof design. The WarmSEAL PIR Insulation also will meet the new H1 insulation codes.

FlameSEAL is a modified bitumen roofing membrane, reinforced with 180 gsm non-woven polyester fabric. Features include superior quality tensile strength, elongation and tear resistance, making it an ideal durable solution for waterproofing requirements. A comparison of product data sheets shows FlameSEAL to have the highest mechanical properties of any modified bitumen available. FlameSEAL has good flexibility at both high and low temperatures, and is also available in a heavy grade option, making it the ultimate choice when selecting a torch-on membrane.

GreenSEAL Garden Roof System has decorative benefits, and also can provide food, temperature control, hydrological benefits, architectural enhancement, habitats or corridors for wildlife, recreational opportunities, and in large scale it may even have ecological benefits. Cultivating food on the rooftop of buildings is sometimes referred to as rooftop farming, usually done using GreenSEAL green roof systems, hydroponics, aeroponics, air-dynaponics, and even container gardens. GreenSEAL also slows down the e ect of rain and stormwater flowing into city waterways, assisting with drainage systems.

DekMASTER is a high quality, fully cured PVC vinyl material, impregnated onto a non-woven polyester fabric back. An aesthetic tra cable and waterprooﬁng membrane all-in-one, it is regarded as one of the best tra cable PVC membranes available in New Zealand to protect your home and provide a watertight exposed deck membrane system. DekMASTER is long lasting, UV and mildew resistant, non-skid, puncture resistant, welded application, easy to clean, cooler to the touch than most other membranes, and soft underfoot.

ShingleLINE Italian asphalt shingles and metal-line bring beauty and life to your structure, with numerous styles and colours available. The shingles are resistant to any climate and extreme weather condition, don’t deteriorate over time, are quiet, light and stable, plus easy to install and maintain. There’s also a full range of accessories and services providing a true “rooﬁng system”, with snow catchers, vents, condensation barriers, etc, made exclusively with “certiﬁed” components.

Visit Sealco at 5/18 Taurus Place, Bromley, Christchurch, call 03 366 9495, or check out our website.

Auckland: 2/55 Ash Road, Wiri, Auckland 2104 Phone: 0508 SEALCO Email: je @sealco.co.nz

GreenSEAL Garden Roof

FlameSEAL Modiﬁed Bitumen

ShingleLINE

The simplest slab insulation solution

• Offers high R-value, which is required for underfloor heating by NZ-building code

• Kiwi made & manufactured from 90% Kiwi sourced, locally recyclable materials

• Flexible in design choices

• Can be retro-fitted to existing concrete foundations

• Paint or Plaster finish, whatever is desired

• 30 – 40% cost saving

• Has an external face of durable water-resistance

Call Angus: 0800 INSULFOUND (467853) or 027 2676 922 sales@insulfound.co.nz www.insulfound.co.nz

Turning your architectural dreams into reality

Picture this: a crew of skilled carpenters, apprentices eager to learn the ropes, and one rock-solid motto—mahi hard—all working together like a well-oiled machine to get the job done.

Welcome to Knuddy Homes, where the talented team turns your wildest architectural dreams into solid reality.

One of their secrets: The Cemintel cladding system

“We’ve got about 3000m2 of that stu installed, and let me tell you, we know it like the back of our hands,” says owner and builder Ben Knudsen.

“Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, modern vibe or something with a bit more rustic charm, our team knows how to make those walls sing.”

What really sets Knuddy Homes apart is the vibe its team brings to the table. “We’re all about family here—tight-knit, supportive, and always ready to lend a hand,” says Ben. “We work hard, but we play hard too, because let’s face it, building bonds is just as important as building structures.

They’re also all ears. “Seriously, there’s no such thing as a silly question around here. Asking questions is how we all learn and grow, right? So, ﬁre away. Our crew is here to guide you every step of the way, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out,” he explains.

“Now, let’s talk about that ‘mahi hard’ mentality. When we’ve got a full team on-site, you better believe we’re pushing things along with all we’ve got. It’s all about that teamwork, that hustle, that determination to see a project through to the ﬁnish line in the time frame allocated.

“At Knuddy Homes, we’re not just about building structures; we’re about telling stories. Each nail hammered, each board laid down—it’s all part of a bigger narrative of craftsmanship and dedication.

“If you’re ready to embark on a journey of collaboration and innovation, we’re here to make it happen. Let’s build something incredible together.”