Avenues 245, May 2026

Peta Mathias at Qestral Villages...

Qestral village residents recently enjoyed a TRILife Talk event with Peta Mathias, renowned author, TV personality, and culinary tour host. Her humour, energy, and stories from kitchen to stage made her an unforgettable guest speaker.

This TRILife Live Talk was part of Qestral’s award-winning TRILife Wellness Programme, which was recognised at the 2025 World Ageing Festival in Singapore for its outstanding activities programmes.

There are fixed village fees for the length of your tenure, including weekly service fees that cover rates, building insurance, maintenance, and more...

New Generation Lifestyle Villages...

qestral.co.nz | alpineview.co.nz | banburypark.co.nz

burlingtonvillage.co.nz | coastalview.co.nz | ashburyheights.co.nz

This month’s highs and lows, brought to you by social correspondent and spiller of tea, Shelby Write. YEAH

The urge to put every song on RAYE’s new album in the Avenues Spotify playlist.

Eurovision month! It is camp, chaotic, and full of key changes.

The Devil Wears Prada 2. I’m seated, I’m silent, I’m ready to be judged.

The new Cadbury Biscoff flavour. Crunchy. Creamy. Spicy. No notes.

Resene Light Fantastic is a turbo-charged, bold yellow, always in the spotlight.

NAH

Petrol prices – considering a pivot to horse ownership.

Celebrities not delivering a 10/10 look at the Met Gala. Disappointing.

Iced drinks in winter. It’s 8 degrees, why is my hand numb and my soul confused?

Pest wasps nabbing all the honeydew – bring back birdsong to our native beech forests!

EDITOR’S NOTE

Wāhine toa

Goodness me, this city is home to some truly fabulous women.

From artists soaring to success to professionals at the top of their fields – they’re all extraordinary.

Closer to home, I think of the mentors in my own life – wāhine toa, warrior women.

There’s Sophie, our food editor. A fierce creator, crafting beauty from flour, eggs, and sugar.

There’s Lisa, our publisher. She’s got your back and always finds a way to make this magazine succeed.

There’s Lucy, our creative director. AI has nothing on her ability to realise our visions.

There’s Bronwyn and Caroline, sales superstars with an instinct for building genuine relationships.

Beyond my work sphere, the women in my life are businesswomen, entrepreneurs, lifesavers, beloved nieces – and those we hold in memory.

Who are the wāhine toa in your life? Honour them. Perhaps they’re a maternal figure – treat them this Mother’s Day, or any day. If they mean something to you, let them know.

Yours,

Liam Stretch Editor

PS. Want to boogie along with the Avenues crew? Scan the QR code to follow our Spotify playlist.

Fire & Soul

Bold flavours

Charred smokiness

Unforgettable spice

Our Indonesian Rotisserie Chef harnesses time-honoured fire techniques to create rich, soulful dishes infused with authentic aromatics – delivering a dining experience you’ll want to return for.

BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL

The Terrace, 134 Oxford Terrace Christchurch, New Zealand

Avenues.

THE TEAM

Publisher Lisa Phelan lisa@27publishers.co.nz

Editor Liam Stretch liam@27publishers.co.nz

Art Director Lucy Arnold lucy@27publishers.co.nz

Food Editor Sophie Petersen sophie@27publishers.co.nz

GM Sales Bronwyn Hawkins bronwyn@27publishers.co.nz

Accounts & Admin Hilary Armstrong accounts@27publishers.co.nz

PRINT

Blueprint, Christchurch

CONTRIBUTORS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lynette McFadden, Neil Macbeth, Centuri Chan, Sarah Mankelow, Dave Richards, Sofiya Romanenko, Dr Reuben Woods, Charlie Rose Jackson, Sarah Lee Photography, Kathy Young, Anna McLeod, Business Canterbury, VIctoria Caffrey, R+A Creative, Jerome Warburton, Duncan Cole, Bruce Foster, Maarten Holl/Te Papa, WBITVNZ, Amore Weddings, Human Re Sources, Phil Tumataroa, CSO, Sheppard and Rout Architects.

CONTACT US

hello@27publishers.co.nz facebook.com/avenuesmagazine instagram.com/avenuesmagazine avenues.net.nz

Produced by Twenty Seven Publishers Limited PO Box 36753, Merivale, Christchurch, 8146

Your copy of Avenues, one of 25,000.

At our core, is our people

Archibalds celebrates its people as specialists whose expertise, care, and dedication set the standard for everything we do.

Their precision is the reason we represent the quality brands of Audi, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lotus, Polestar, Porsche, and Volvo.

With a team committed to delivering excellence, we offer premium vehicle servicing, genuine parts and merchandise, tailored auto finance solutions, and an exceptional vehicle buying experience led by our trusted sales professionals. archibalds.co.nz

At the forefront of vision correction, Dr David Kent and Dr Zea Munro, offering premium cataract and RLE solutions as well as the most advanced laser eye treatments available today.

Discover what’s possible, you’ll be wishing you had seen us sooner.

The epic majesty of Mahler meets the lyrical romance of Korngold

CHRISTCHURCH ŌTAUTAHI SUN, 24 MAY, 2PM

CHRISTCHURCH TOWN HALL

JAMES EHNES Violin

GEMMA NEW Conductor

MAHLER Symphony No. 1, Titan

KORNGOLD Violin Concerto

THOMAS ADÈS The Origin Of The Harp (NZ Premiere)

TICKETS FROM $30 Book at

AROHA TAMIHANA

Aroha (Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Ranginui) is a writer, designer, and illustrator – and the creative behind Maimoa Creative. A lifelong learner and advocate of te reo Māori, she is on a mission to help normalise its use in everyday life and to support others on their journey through her unique designs, products, and resources.

RIVER JAYDEN

River (Ngāti Tahu, Ngāti Whaoa) is a visual artist and graphic designer who specialises in digital design and painting. Her visually striking work is bold and colourful, and her murals and public artworks have gained strong national and international recognition. River’s work takes a lens to history. River’s academic background informs her work. She takes a lens to history through her art history background and holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Canterbury. Her research looks at colonial and religious appropriation of Māori culture. “Research is fundamental to my painting practice; it inspires me to create works that spark debate, and the narrative is usually politically charged.”

QIANE MATATA-SIPU

NIKKITA KOIA

Nikkita (Te Arawa) is a kaiako, a rongoā maker, and a māmā of four. She began her business while on maternity leave, harvesting kawakawa and turning a hobby into something meaningful. Her Poipoia Ōtautahi products blend natural essential oils and rongoā Māori to create beautiful skincare products.

Qiane (Te Waiohua ki Te Ahiwaru me Te Ākitai, Waikato, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Pikiao, Cook Islands) has written W is for Wahine Toa – a vibrant bilingual alphabet book celebrating the strength and spirit of wāhine. This taonga nurtures mind, heart, and identity, encouraging readers to embrace their own mana and voice while connecting with culture, storytelling, and the enduring power of wāhine toa. A bold, beautiful addition to any whānau bookshelf today. Alongside W is for Wahine Toa, Qiane has written a number of other books featuring gorgeous illustration. Her work continues to inspire tamariki and whānau.

HAPA

CEZANNE LYONS

Cezanne (Ngāi Tahu, Rangitāne) from Little Taonga creates stunning jewellery crafted from 18ct gold and sterling silver, each piece reflecting strength and simplicity. Elegantly packaged, these treasures honour the beauty found within nature. Designed to be worn daily or treasured as heirlooms, each piece carries an enduring sense of connection.

HOUSE OF REHUA

House of Rehua (Te Rarawa) was born out of traditional wisdom that resides within three generations. They create naturally formulated skincare that transforms daily rituals into moments of connection, a grounding ritual that honours whenua, body, and wairua. Rooted in intergenerational rongoā Māori knowledge, this whānau-led brand brings together tradition and innovation to support holistic wellbeing and care for the vessel that carries you. There is a full range of natural cosmetics on offer, thoughtfully crafted to nourish skin, uplift spirit, and reconnect everyday routines with ancestral knowledge and intentional, mindful selfcare practices.

HUIKAI CREATIONS

ALICE SPITTLE

Alice (Ngāi Tahu) is a renowned artist, creative, and weaver. From her Waitaha studio, she crafts stunning earrings by hand with Jacinta Topia for the Hāpai Collective. Each pair of muka earrings is crafted using traditional techniques and natural plant dyes, handwoven from muka fibre extracted from New Zealand harakeke.

Ngaire Briggs (Ngāti Huikai) runs a whānau-owned Ōtautahi business handcrafting natural soy candles adorned with crystals and shells. Our sense of smell holds our strongest memories, and the Huikai scents range from sweet berry Riapaina to floral Ātaahua, fresh Wai Māori and nostalgic Marae Apple Pie. Every fragrance carries a story, named for tamariki, whānau, and cherished places. Rooted in whakapapa, these candles celebrate memory, connection, and the warmth of home. A thoughtful gift or a treat for everyday rituals, designed to evoke emotion, spark nostalgia, and create moments of calm, comfort, and reflection in daily life.

Showcasing more than 300 local designers and artists.

International Women’s Day Graffiti Jam

Artists Ms Yellow, Faux, Snaps, Thorn, Chock, Temu, Spice, Meep, Sekr, Poise, Fluro, Kons, and Nels

Date March 2026

Location Travis Road, North New Brighton

Created by 13 female artists from Aotearoa, Australia, and the US, this bold production is a celebration of wāhine in graffiti. Self-funded and thoroughly collaborative, the mural, as artist Chock explains, reflects “the joy of painting as an intergenerational community”.

Marking International Women’s Day 2026, the production illuminates graffiti’s empowering invitation for women to “shed gender norms and take up public space”, while also providing the artists the “chance to meet, build relationships in person, and grow in collective identity”. Bringing together both experienced and emerging artists, from Australian artists Spice and Poise, who have been painting since

the 1980s, and Aotearoa original Thorn, to 17-year-old Ōtautahi artist Temu, the mural highlights the diverse, enduring, but often overlooked presence of female artists in graffiti.

Utilising a striking blue and pink colour palette and combining traditional letterforms and characters, the wall’s theme draws parallels between graffiti women and female Roller Derby, both sharing “a rebellious identity and a ‘do-it-yourself’ mindset, driven by a proactive creative spirit”. Giving each artist equal space, the wall emphasises collaborative spirit, and creates a declarative roll call of individual identity and collective community.

Explore more of Ōtautahi’s urban art on a Watch This Space guided street art tour! Email tours@watchthisspace.org.nz for booking information.

watchthisspace.org.nz/artwork/1229

1–3

THE CHRISTCHURCH ART SHOW

Get arty, Ōtautahi! The Christchurch Art Show is back and lights up Te Pae from Friday 1 May until Sunday 3 May. Grab your friends and enjoy the show with a weekend pass; children 16 and under go free with an adult. For something extra special, enjoy a wonderful night out at the VIP Preview or Opening Night. Discover emerging and established artists, live talks, and pieces to suit every taste and budget. Alongside paintings and drawings, there is large art, pottery, jewellery, and statement sculpture. This is set to be one of the most exciting weekends of art!

1–3 May, Te Pae tickets.theartshow.co.nz

15 24 1 3 14 16

OPEN CHRISTCHURCH

Discover 52 of Ōtautahi Christchurch’s best buildings at Open Christchurch 2026 on 1–3 May. The annual festival returns with four guided walks, two cycle tours, and 40+ activities for those who are looking to delve deeper into the buildings they explore. From modernist masterpieces to bold contemporary designs, there is something for everyone. Visit openchch.nz.

1–3 May, various locations openchch.nz

LOOKING FOR LOVE

Nosferatu Looking For Love by Rhiannon McCall is a hilarious, offbeat take on modern dating. Playing a lovelorn vampire, McCall blends clowning, audience interaction, and improvised romance in a quest to find Mrs Nosferatu – and maybe himself. Part horror, part romance, all comedy, this sharp, playful show is directed by Abby Howells.

14–16 May, Little Andromeda Theatre littleandromeda.co.nz

HEATHERS THE MUSICAL

Direct from London and New York, Heathers the Musical hits Christchurch this May. At Westerberg High, Veronica Sawyer’s rise to popularity takes a dark turn when she meets rebellious J.D. Based on the cult film, this wickedly funny, deliciously dark hit delivers a killer soundtrack and big energy – where popularity is a matter of life and death.

15–24 May, James Hay Theatre heathersthemusical.com

ON REPEAT

Raye’s new album, This Music May Contain Hope, is what we’ve all been needing. The British singer-songwriter blends jazz, R&B, house, pop, and big band. Top picks are Joy (feat. Amma & Absolutely), Nightingale Lane, and I Will Overcome, but this is an album that deserves to be listened to from start to finish. You’ll be dancing in the street, we promise.

DOCTOR, DOCTOR

Wise, candid, brave, and moving, Everything but the Medicine by Lucy O’Hagan is a superbly written memoir reminiscent of Atul Gawande. Charting a career shaped by burnout, humour, and care for those on the margins, she reflects deeply on patient relationships and asks what it truly means to be a good doctor here.

MUST BE FUNNY

For those not entirely on top of all the mechanics of money, Where’s My Money? puts everything from the OCR to KiwiSaver in context for the everyday spender and saver. Host Reagan White lets the pros do the explaining in his pursuit of financial security and freedom. 2026 is the year you understand your money!

I SAID NO, NO, NO

New Zealand is well known for its groundbreaking film, but every now and again, a television show pops up that deserves as much attention as the silver screen. Crackhead is an unashamed, brutally honest comedy-drama on Three. It follows the drug-addicted party animal Frankie, who has hit rock bottom. Everything is in question, her inheritance and relationships. She’s off to rehab, but this will be far from simple. To follow Frankie’s journey, stream it on ThreeNow.

Hospice open day

We warmly invite the community to visit and explore our new facility, meet our team, and learn more about the care and support we provide.

Friday 5 June & Saturday 6 June 2026 10am – 2pm 28 Mansfield Ave, Merivale

Come and see how this special place will support patients and whānau in our community.

All welcome – no registration required.

Enriching the way people live, work, stay and play through architecture and interior design

The new Sheraton is currently emerging from the old Noahs Hotel with new guest rooms being constructed on the eastern face

+64 3 366 5445 design@dalman.co.nz dalman.co.nz

TAKE TIME FOR YOU

1 MUM’S THE WORD

Skip the usual Mother’s Day gifts and explore Lush’s botanical-inspired, handmade treats. Packed with floral fragrances, ethically sourced ingredients, and beautifully designed, these feel-good gifts are as thoughtful as they are luxurious.

lush.com

2 SKIN FRIEND

GIFT, TWO WAYS

MEA, created by Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki with support from Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, revives traditional perfume-making. Dark Skies blends native plant taramea with ylang ylang, clove, bergamot, apricot, and vanilla, evoking rich starlit nights.

meafragrance.co.nz

4

DMK’s Hydration Boost Gift Set is the perfect Mother’s Day treat, featuring three full-size hydration heroes to nourish skin through cooler months. Adding purpose to purchase, each set also supports NZ Women’s Refuge. Designed to restore moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and boost glow, it’s skincare with intention. dmkskin.com.au

SKIN TREAT

Ultherapy® is a favourite jawline-defining treatment. Using high-intensity ultrasound technology to boost the production of new collagen in the skin’s foundation layers, Ultherapy® is the gold standard for lifting and firming the jawline. The treatment doesn’t take long, and the results take up to three months to fully reveal themselves. It’s a one-and-done treatment, and your collagen stores will thank you. Ultherapy® is the only FDA-approved treatment for a non-invasive facelift. Check out the Skin Rejuvenation Clinic’s May special! skinrejuvenationclinic.co.nz

Your every day starts here

Wāhine toa show up in the everyday – the juggle, the hustle, the group chats, school runs, and the big meetings. It’s the quiet superpower of getting it done (most of the time) and still finding moments for you. At The Crossing, your day flows easily – fashion, beauty, something delicious, and the to-do list sorted. Because sometimes being a wahine toa means conquering the world… and sometimes it’s just grabbing a coffee and calling it a win.

thecrossing.co.nz | 166 Cashel Street, Christchurch

DESIGNED BY HER

There’s something quietly powerful about wearing pieces conceived by fellow wāhine. This month’s edit honours New Zealand women designers whose vision and craftsmanship shape the way we dress and express ourselves.

Just Between Us Sweater, $695 maggiemarilyn.com | Imposter Shirt $550.00 zambesistore.com | Cropped Aviator Jacket, $495 karenwalker.com | 9ct Yellow Gold Catena Bevelled Studs, POA filigree.co.nz | Mesh Godet Skirt, $289 stormonline.com | Gigi Tort Sunglasses, $189 boredgeorge.com | Sterling Silver and Champagne Cubic Zirconia Ring, $300 zazing.felt.co.nz | Envy Full Cup Bra, $114.99, & Envy Thong, $44.99 thefittingroom.co.nz | Lucy Heel, $399 kathrynwilson.com

The velvet knife

Karen Hattaway Manu Restaurant owner and businesswoman | @manu.restaurant.chch

Dear gentle wāhine toa, We translate wāhine toa as “strong women”.

Simple. Clean. Almost… convenient.

But strength isn’t tidy.

It’s not a filtered version of resilience with good lighting and a composed smile. It’s not holding everything together while your world quietly burns behind the scenes, although let’s be honest, many of us have mastered that art.

Being wāhine toa is far more layered. Far more human. And far less polished.

Because what does “strong” even look like now?

Is it the woman building an empire, running meetings, making payroll, and still remembering it’s school camp week?

Is it the mother at home, raising good humans with a level of patience most CEOs would fold under?

Is it the partner who stands beside her husband, backing his dreams while quietly carrying her own?

Or is it the woman who looks at all of that and decides she wants something different entirely?

Here’s the part we don’t say out loud: Today’s woman is expected to be all of it. Effortlessly.

We’re told to lean in, but not too far. Be strong, but not intimidating. Be nurturing, but don’t lose your edge. Be successful, but still available.

It’s a balancing act performed under a

spotlight, with a panel of judges who weren’t invited but showed up anyway.

So, are we better off than our mothers were 50 years ago?

They had fewer choices.

But they also had less noise.

There was a lane. Narrow, yes, but clear.

Now? The lane is wide open, and everyone has an opinion on which direction you should take.

Different battles. Same weight.

What I see in life, in boardrooms, in quiet conversations over a glass of wine, is this:

Real strength isn’t about doing everything.

It’s about owning your version of everything.

A wahine toa backs herself.

She makes decisions that align with who she is, not who she’s told to be.

Some days she’s powerful. Other days, she’s just holding it together. Both count.

That’s the shift.

Strength isn’t silent anymore.

It’s allowed to be seen, heard, messy, bold, nurturing, ambitious, contradictory – all in the same day.

So the real question isn’t who had it harder.

The question is: are we brave enough to define strength on our own terms?

Because that’s where the power sits.

And if that sparks a lively debate over dinner with your girlfriends… Good.

That’s exactly where it should start.

FEATURE

Wāhine toa

Me aro ki te hā o Hine-ahu-one

Pay heed and dignity to the power of women

AOTEAROA TO VENICE

Renowned Kiwi artist, Dr Fiona Pardington, shares with Avenues her practice ahead of her presence at the La Biennale di Venezia in 2026, one of the world’s most prestigious art shows.

Your work often explores what is hidden or unseen in photography – what draws you to those quieter, more elusive elements? I’ve always been drawn to what sits just beneath the surface, the wairua of things. Photography can be loud and showy, but I’m more interested in the whispers, the shadows, the things that don’t announce themselves. Those quieter elements feel closer to the truth. They ask you to lean in, to take your time, to feel rather than just look.

You were part of a group of women artists challenging photography’s social documentary style in the late 1980s – what did that shift mean for you creatively? It was a real turning point. Back then, photography in Aotearoa was often expected to be social documentary, journalistic. A few brave women decided that our stories, our bodies, our imaginations matter too. It opened the door for more emotion, more mana wāhine in the medium. It gave me permission to trust my instincts.

Your still-life work with taonga and historical objects carries a strong emotional presence – how do you approach photographing items with such cultural and spiritual weight? With deep respect. These objects aren’t just “things”; they carry whakapapa, memory, and the hands of everyone who held them before. I take time, I mihi to them, I listen. My job is to honour their mauri, not to dominate it. When the photograph works, it’s because the object has allowed itself to be seen in a new way.

How has your mixed cultural background influenced your approach to your work?

Being Kāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, Ngāti Kahungunu, and also of Scottish descent,

I came to understand that identity is layered. That’s shaped everything I do. I’m comfortable moving between worlds, museum and marae, science and story, darkness and light. That mix gives me a wider lens, literally and metaphorically.

There’s a recurring dialogue between life, death, and preservation in your work – what continues to fascinate you about that tension? It’s the big human question, isn’t it? What stays, what fades, what we try to hold on to. Photography is always a kind of preservation, a way of saying, “I see you, I remember you”. I’m drawn to that edge where something is slipping away but still has presence. It’s tender, a bit haunting, and very beautiful.

Being selected to represent Aotearoa at La Biennale di Venezia in 2026 is a significant milestone – what does that opportunity mean to you? It’s huge. Venice is one of the biggest stages in the art world, and to stand there as a Kāi Tahu woman from Aotearoa feels powerful. At this point in my life, it’s a chance to reflect on the long journey: the people who backed me, the communities I belong to. I hope to bring home new connections, new energy, and a sense of having carried our stories with integrity.

How have you built on your work, Te taha o te rangi, ‘the edge of the heavens’? Taharaki Skyside grows out of that idea of standing at the horizon, that place where earth and sky meet, where the seen and unseen touch. I’ve pushed further into that space, thinking about navigation, belonging, and the way our tīpuna read the world through stars, winds, and birds. It’s about connection across distance: Aotearoa to Venice, past to present, people to place.

FINANCIAL FUTURES

Women are taking a leading role at the financial firm Cambridge Partners; they share with Avenues key strategies to help women navigate their financial journey.

At Cambridge Partners, a team of five women is reshaping the way financial advice is delivered – with empathy, clarity, and a focus on empowerment. Pip Kean, Ashley Salt, Liv Winchester, Margot Lensen, and Hannah Meikle sit at the heart of the firm’s advisory team, bringing a collaborative and considered approach to guiding clients through their financial journeys.

While their work supports a wide range of clients, the team has developed a specialised offering known as Women’s Wealth – a series of targeted services designed to empower women to take control of their financial futures. It’s a response to the reality that women often face unique financial circumstances, from career breaks and pay gaps to longer life expectancy and lower lifetime savings.

“It’s just being able to help people begin to understand what they need to know to be able to make decisions for themselves, but also give them the power and belief that they can do it,” says Margot Lensen, Financial Adviser.

That sense of empowerment is central to everything the team does. Financial advice, they believe, is not just about numbers – it’s about building confidence, capability, and independence.

Principal and Financial Adviser Ashley Salt agrees. “We want to help them build their financial capability.”

For many clients, that journey begins during moments of change – whether navigating separation, stepping into financial responsibility, or planning for the future. Cambridge Partners has even developed a resource, A Path to Tomorrow, to support women through the emotional and financial complexities of separation or divorce. But beyond individual circumstances, the team is also addressing a broader issue: the wealth gap.

“We often talk about the wage gap, but we don’t often talk about the wealth gap,” says Finacial Adviser Hannah Meikle. “Women typically have a lot less invested than men over the course of their lifetime… that leads them to have fewer choices, and that’s something that we want to change.”

For the team, it comes back to one key idea: optionality.

“Optionality is key,” Margot explains. “We want people to be in relationships because they want to be, in jobs because they want to be, and to have the freedom to leave things that no longer serve them.”

This philosophy is reflected in the practical support they offer, from cash flow planning to retirement strategies, investment advice, and intergenerational wealth planning. KiwiSaver guidance is another key focus, helping clients maximise long-term savings and make informed decisions early.

Education plays a crucial role in that process.

“I think that seeking advice is one thing that women do really well, because we do ask lots of questions,” says Principal and Financial Adviser Pip Kean. “We all pride ourselves on making sure our clients feel educated and then therefore feel empowered to make decisions.”

That emphasis on collaboration extends beyond the client relationship. The team works closely with lawyers, accountants, and other professionals to create a seamless, holistic approach – particularly important during times of transition.

Ultimately, the goal is simple: to help clients step forward with confidence.

Whether building wealth, planning for retirement or navigating life’s unexpected turns, the Cambridge Partners team is invested in more than just financial outcomes. They are invested in people – and in helping them create secure, fulfilling futures on their own terms.

cambridgepartners.co.nz

TOP-TIER TRIO

Avenues meets three women behind well-known Merivale Mall stores – and discovers what keeps them inspired.

Merivale Mall has long been one of Christchurch’s premier shopping destinations – known for its curated mix of fashion, footwear, and lifestyle stores. But beyond the polished storefronts are the people who bring these spaces to life.

At the heart of the mall are three businesswomen shaping its retail landscape: Andrea Bailey, co-owner of Andrea Biani; Kate Linden, franchise owner of Stirling Women; and Abbey Dickson, owner of Fashion Society. Each has built a loyal and growing customer base, grounded in a shared commitment to exceptional customer experience.

For Kate Linden, Stirling Women is a thoughtfully curated space designed with women in mind. The store brings together a considered mix of brands, offering choice without feeling overwhelming.

“There is something for all types of women,” she says. “I think it’s nice having a dedicated women’s store… a shop that is for you.”

That sense of intention carries through to the in-store experience. Kate is passionate about keeping the environment approachable and relaxed.

“We’re very accessible, and the shopping experience is not overwhelming,” she explains. “It’s simple things – plenty of space between the clothing racks and not too loud music.”

Behind the scenes, Kate has also discovered a surprising passion for the numbers side of retail. For Kate, understanding the numbers behind the business is part of ensuring the store continues to meet customers’ expectations.

“I enjoy looking at the stats side of things,” she says. “There’s so much information in there that can help you. It’s how you stay ahead.”

At Andrea Biani, Andrea Bailey brings decades of experience and knowledge to the shop floor.

She and her husband Vern purchased the business in 1996, though their connection to footwear stretches back even further.

“We both started selling shoes when we left school and moved through the ranks to be able to manage our own stores… both at the young age of 21! We met in Wellington, and after experiencing the corporate world of shoe retailing, we moved to Christchurch in 1996 and purchased Andrea Biani. It’s just – it’s in our DNA.”

For Andrea, longevity in retail comes down to one enduring principle: the customer.

“It is about identifying their needs and building that relationship… and just understanding where they’re at. That’s why we’re here – to meet their needs and put a bit of sparkle in their day.”

Nearly 30 years on, she continues to evolve alongside the industry, staying attuned to changing trends and expectations.

Across the mall, Abbey Dickson brings a global lens to Fashion Society. With a background in high-end Australian retail, she recognised a gap in the Christchurch market – and set out to fill it.

“I wanted to give customers the opportunity to access brands that they might see on their travels – that they can’t get here. It’s my passion – I live and breathe retail,” she says.

Stocking coveted international labels such as Zadig & Voltaire, Abbey has created a space that feels both elevated and inclusive.

“The main thing I wanted to create was a ‘society’ for women… no matter your age or body shape, we want everyone to walk through the door and feel comfortable.”

Together, these women represent the beating heart of Merivale Mall – where a genuine love of retail continues to shape the way Christchurch shops.

merivalemall.co.nz

TAKING THE WHEEL

Archibalds has long been part of New Zealand’s automotive landscape. Today, it is firmly looking to the future, with a large group of women within its ranks.

There has been a rise of strong female teams at Archibalds. Their presence is not only reshaping perceptions of the automotive industry but also enhancing the customer experience.

For Anenicke Meyer, Porsche Brand Ambassador and Service Consultant, the journey into automotive has been both personal and professional.

“The automotive world is a lifestyle that not everyone understands, and learning the intricacies of how it operates has allowed me to develop a deeper passion for cars. I especially enjoy building on that passion and knowledge and sharing it with our female clients, helping them feel comfortable, understood, and supported throughout the process. I’m confident this approach enhances our customers’ experience and strengthens their connection to the automotive world,” says Anenicke.

Anenicke’s path began at a young age, influenced by her father’s career in the German automotive industry. Starting as a vehicle detailer, she has worked her way through the ranks.

“I take pride in staying one step ahead – always learning, refining my understanding, and ensuring I’m prepared to confidently guide every conversation. With the support of the dealership and the brand, I’ve developed the confidence to lead with knowledge, build trust with my clients, and create an automotive experience that is both professional and genuinely engaging.”

Her experience highlights a broader shift within the industry – one that is still ongoing.

Amber Inwood, Sales Executive for Jaguar, Land Rover, Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar,

echoes this sentiment, pointing to trust and communication as defining strengths.

“I’m often told how much clients enjoy the experience of working with me – I believe it comes down to my approach. I focus on creating a relaxed environment where there’s no pressure to rush decisions, only support. My experience offers me the ability to ask the right questions, pairing it with the buyer’s wants and needs giving me the ability to guide them toward the vehicle that feels right for them.”

Amber worked her way up in the industry, from reception to sales person, and having spent nearly eight years with Archibalds, she has witnessed the rise in female staff firsthand.

At a leadership level, this shift is both recognised and actively supported. Mark Milligan, General Manager of Archibalds, sees diversity as essential to the business.

“We have women involved in almost every facet of our business. Customer service, marketing, events, operations, sales, parts, finance – you get the idea!”

While acknowledging there is still room to grow, particularly among technicians, Mark notes the importance of representation in shaping both culture and customer experience.

“We are a people business, and our clients deserve to be represented by people like themselves.”

Ultimately, while vehicles and technology continue to evolve, the fundamentals remain unchanged.

“People want a fair deal. They want excellent service… Everything else comes down to our people helping our new and returning clients with their vehicle requirements,” Mark says.

archibalds.co.nz

THE ALL CLEAR

Christchurch startup Pyper Vision is taking on fog, using smart forecasting technology to help aviation cut delays, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.

Emily Blythe has always understood aviation as more than an industry – it’s been part of her family for generations. Dinner table conversations about the weather were more than small talk; they were stories of flight paths, disruptions, and the persistent challenges of working in the sky. It’s where her instinct to problem-solve first took shape.

The idea behind Pyper Vision began early. “The idea was a seed back when I was 16,” she says. Out of high school, she was part of the Young Enterprise Scheme, looking for a problem worth solving. It didn’t take long to find one. Fog.

Her mother, an air traffic controller, had just come through a week of heavy disruption in the tower. Emily herself, learning to fly, had experienced the same frustrations. “It kind of bubbled away,” she says.

What began as an idea for fog dispersal – a way to clear the air using drones – has now evolved into a forecasting platform that turns weather, especially fog, from something aviation reacts to into something the industry can start planning around in real time.

It’s a deceptively simple concept, but one that addresses a major gap. Globally, fog forecasting is still unreliable. “Fog is one of aviation’s blind spots – almost half of it isn’t forecast, and most of the warnings that are issued end up being wrong.”

For an industry reliant on precision, and one where customers expect to get to where they want to go, those margins are staggering. Flights are delayed or diverted, schedules unravel, and costs climb – financially and environmentally.

When the weather is wrong, 620 million passengers pay the price, contributing to $92

billion in airline losses and 32 billion hours of passenger frustration – with a quarter of these disruptions caused by low visibility alone.

Pyper Vision’s answer is to rethink forecasting entirely. The company is leaning into machine learning and AI, training systems on global datasets to better understand patterns in fog and low visibility.

“We’ve flipped it on its head,” Emily says. “Instead of relying purely on science and mathematics, we’re asking – what are the patterns we actually need to understand?”

Christchurch has played a key role in that journey. Support from the University of Canterbury helped shape early trials, while organisations like the Ministry of Awesome and ChristchurchNZ have also been invaluable.

“I think in Christchurch, we’ve got something really special when it comes to the aerospace scene,” Emily says. “We have businesses like Dawn Aerospace fostering talent and the Tāwhaki aerospace centre providing testing and launch sites.”

“Air New Zealand also helped us get onto the global stage… and gave us an opportunity to test in a real operating environment.”

“We’re now working alongside major airlines and aviation partners in live environments around the world. That level of engagement in both hemispheres tells us we’re not just solving a problem, we’re becoming part of the future of how aviation operates and I couldn’t be more proud.”

It’s a future that still feels close to home.

For Emily, skies that once sparked frustration are now spaces of possibility. If Pyper Vision succeeds, its impact will stretch far beyond the cockpit, reshaping how aviation anticipates, adapts, and ultimately moves.

pypervision.com

LEADING FROM THE FRONT

In Ōtautahi, a new movement is taking shape – one designed to uplift the next generation of wāhine leaders across Te Waipounamu.

The 03 Leadership Collective, founded by Mackenzie Wills and Ruby Love-Smith, was created to inspire, empower, and enable young wāhine to step confidently into leadership. At its core, the organisation focuses on equipping young women with the tools they need to lead – both in their communities and in their own lives.

“It’s about giving women the education and the skills that they need to be leaders in their community,” says Ruby.

The idea for The 03 Leadership Collective came after the pair noticed a gap. Many leadership opportunities for young women were centred in the North Island, leaving those in the South Island underserved. “We had a mindset of, we may as well fill it, rather than waiting for someone else to come along and fill it,” says Mackenzie.

The name reflects that purpose. “03” refers to the calling code for Ōtautahi Christchurch and the wider South Island, anchoring the initiative firmly in the mainland.

As a youth-led feminist organisation, the collective focuses on advancing leadership and civic participation for rangatahi wāhine aged

13 to 21. Through workshops, mentorship, advocacy, and community initiatives, the group aims to create meaningful pathways for young women to thrive.

Importantly, the work recognises that barriers to leadership are not one-size-fits-all. Young wāhine in rural communities, small towns, and urban centres often face different challenges, shaped by both gender and geography.

This year marks an exciting step forward, with the launch of their podcast, The Power in Us. Designed to spark honest, down-toearth conversations, it explores leadership, confidence, identity, and the real-life challenges young women face today.

Alongside this, the team is preparing for a launch event that will bring together young leaders, changemakers, and community advocates from across sectors, creating space for connection, conversation, and collaboration.

The pair are also taking their work into schools through Lead Like Her – a targeted leadership initiative supporting young women across the South Island. Through interactive workshops, events, and online programmes, the project aims to build confidence, strengthen leadership capability, and create a supportive network for young wāhine stepping into leadership on their own terms.

BUILDING HER HOME

For Myra Mifrano, building homes in New Zealand is about more than construction – it’s about creating the life she once dreamed of.

A qualified civil engineer with more than 20 years’ experience, Myra arrived in New Zealand ready to grow her career on an international stage. But like many migrants, she found herself starting again. In those early years, she worked as a quantity surveyor and planner within established construction companies, steadily building her understanding of the Kiwi housing and commercial markets.

What came next was unexpected – and deeply personal.

As she began building her own home, friends started to take notice. One opportunity led to another, and before long, she was being asked to take on projects of her own.

“A friend trusted me to build his house,” she says.

It was a turning point. What started as a favour quickly revealed something bigger – a clear path forward.

“My heart belongs in construction.”

With that clarity, Myra founded RM Homes Canterbury. Drawing on her extensive

experience in the Philippines, where she worked on projects for both local and international clients, she set out to create homes that felt both timeless and attainable for New Zealand families.

Since then, her work has grown steadily, grounded in a simple philosophy: a home is more than a structure – it’s a place of belonging.

“Each house I build in New Zealand makes it feel more like home. I’m growing my family,” she says. “Some clients, before I had a showhome, offered for me to use their new houses as showhomes, because they loved them so much.”

It’s a reflection of the trust she builds with her clients – something she sees as just as important as the physical result.

Working alongside a network of trusted local subcontractors, Myra ensures each project is delivered to a high standard, with clients kept informed at every stage. The goal is not just quality, but comfort – homes that feel considered, liveable, and truly personal.

For Myra, the journey has come full circle.

From starting over to building homes for others, she has created something lasting – not just for her clients, but for herself.

rmhomes.co.nz

A LIFE FOR OTHERS

Dr Hafsa Ahmed MNZM is a Canterbury-based academic, community leader, and foresight practitioner reshaping how we think about the future – not as something abstract, but as something deeply human. Her work sits at the intersection of strategy, storytelling, and social impact. At its core is a powerful question: “How can we harness stakeholder ecosystem relationships… to foster more equitable and distributive societies?”

While many foresight practitioners focus on technology, Hafsa is interested in people. “I like to call myself an optimistic futurist,” she says. “We all have the agency to make the right choices… for a better future.” Her work in narrative futures invites individuals and communities to imagine what that future looks like – and then work backwards to shape it.

That philosophy is grounded in lived experience. Arriving in New Zealand from India, Hafsa went from managing a team of 75 people as Manager Operations at a globally recognised bank, to applying for hundreds of roles without success. She eventually took a job as a

receptionist. “I had to park all my experience… and just start fresh,” she says – a moment that would go on to shape her life’s work.

Through the Lady Khadija Charitable Trust, which she co-founded, Hafsa now supports migrant women navigating similar challenges. Her programmes focus on leadership, confidence, and connection, addressing what she describes as “social bankruptcy” – the loss of networks and belonging – and “reputational bankruptcy”, where skills and experience are overlooked. In one workshop, 30 women collectively held 236 years of experience, yet few could access roles that reflected their expertise.

Her work extends across initiatives like PowerUp seminars, storytelling platforms such as Immigrant Journeys, and leadership courses designed to rebuild identity and confidence. It is all driven by a “hand-up, not handout” philosophy – creating long-term capability rather than short-term solutions.

For Hafsa, the future is not something we wait for. It is something we build – together – through connection, courage, and the choices we make every day.

christchurchnz.com

THE CUSHION COUTURIER SELWYN HOUSE SCHOOL

Where interior design and cushions collide, you will find Becky Lee in the coloursoaked workroom of The Cushion Couturier.

“After more than a decade in the interiors industry, I wanted to build a business around a product that I could produce and control throughout the process, a product that gives me the ability to express myself and showcase my passion for colour and textiles – cushions provide that for me,” she says.

Four years ago, Becky started her cushion line, working from a home-based studio and selling online. It was hard work – there was a lot to learn about running an e-commerce site and getting customers to purchase online.

“I knew a retail space was the way to take my business to the next level. Customers want to feel the fabrics and see them up close; cushions are a tactile experience.”

In March last year, she opened The Cushion Couturier in St Albans.

“I had to back myself and the vision I had for my boutique. I was certain that there is a discerning market for quality handmade cushions that customers can customise to match their homes and personalities.”

And it’s proved to be true; Becky has customers seeking her out from all over the country, and online sales have increased as The Cushion Couturier brand grows and builds trust.

“I love the interactions that retail and custom work offers and that I have created my place in the interiors industry.”

In an edition celebrating wāhine toa, Principal Julie Calder of Selwyn House School believes the journey to becoming an empowered woman begins long before high school. While many wait until the secondary years to invest in a specialist environment, Julie advocates for a foundation built on this early, critical transformation.

“The primary years are the most important time for providing this groundwork,” Julie explains. “It is where a girl’s sense of selfworth is forged.” As New Zealand’s only allgirls, full primary independent school, Selwyn House is a training ground for future wāhine toa. Here, gender stereotypes are challenged and replaced by limitless possibilities. Whether mastering Mechatronics, developing in the Performing Arts, or leading in the Senior Leadership Academy, students are encouraged to find their voice, take risks, and lead with resilience.

This purposeful “runway” creates the Year 9 Edge, where graduates enter high school not just as students, but as seasoned, confident leaders. “If you haven’t explored the IB curriculum, it is a revelation,” Julie says. “It turns inquiry into a way of life.”

“There is no substitute for visiting us in person to feel the unique energy of our community,” says Calder as she invites families to book a personal tour. “It is the best way to witness how our tailored, nurturing approach helps every girl thrive.”

beckylee.co.nz selwynhouse.school.nz

CSO: NAOMI FERGUSON IWELLNESS

Ōtautahi songbird Naomi Ferguson is a performer whose career spans more than 30 years across concerts, festivals, theatre, and musical productions throughout Aotearoa. Known for her ability to embody character and tell stories through song, she moves effortlessly between genres, whether performing solo at the piano, with bands, or alongside some of the country’s leading orchestras.

A regular collaborator with Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, as well as Auckland Philharmonia and Orchestra Wellington, Naomi has built a reputation for performances rich in emotion and nuance. Now, she takes centre stage in CSO’s Lamb & Hayward Masterworks series, bringing Amsterdam: The Jacques Brel Song Cycle to life. Orchestrated by Ōtautahi’s Alex van den Broek, the performance reimagines Brel’s iconic repertoire with fresh energy, blending theatrical storytelling with the power of a full orchestra.

For Naomi, this scale of performance is unmatched. “It feels a little bit like catching a wave,” she says. “There’s this moment of being lifted and carried… like you’re able to fly.”

When Naomi is not singing, she is an avid crafter, cook, and reader. She also manages the University of Canterbury’s campus at The Arts Centre.

You’ll be able to see Naomi in full force with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra Lamb & Hayward Masterworks Gershwin, Jacques Brel, Weill on 15 May.

cso.co.nz

Oana Macarie’s passion for helping people strengthen their pelvic floor began with her own experience. Menopause and the natural effects of ageing left her needing to make a change. She found herself travelling to Auckland for treatment – a journey that sparked a simple but powerful idea: why not bring this support to Christchurch?

“I was talking about the problems I was facing with my friends here. It turned out many of them had the same problem, and we just hadn’t talked about it. I decided to do something.”

An engineer by trade, Oana began the search for the best tool to help Cantabrians repair their pelvic floors. After extensive research, she purchased the BTL European Emsella Chair, which uses electromagnetic energy to deliver the equivalent of around 11,000 Kegel contractions in a session of less than half an hour.

Childbirth, menopause, pelvic surgery, prostatectomy, nerve damage, traumatic injury to the pelvic region, and ageing can all lead to bladder and bowel issues, as well as pelvic floor dysfunction in both males and females.

“At the core of what I do is relationships,” she says. “I’ve been blown away by the different experiences and lack of access to non-invasive options for people to support their pelvic floor.”

From her clinic at The Tannery, Oana has treated many people. The treatment helps retrain muscles that are often difficult to activate independently. Fully clothed and with no downtime, it fits seamlessly into everyday life.

iwellness.kiwi

OMA ARCHITECTURE ANNA MARGARET INTERIORS

Olivia Aitken is the force behind OMA Architecture, a practice grounded in lived experience, technical skill, and a personal approach to design. Raised around construction, with a father who was a joiner and carpenter, her path into architecture felt instinctive.

“Construction and design were just part of everyday life,” she says, recalling childhood hours spent sketching floor plans on graph paper.

Starting OMA Architecture in 2018 was, as she puts it, “a natural progression rather than a single defining decision”. It came alongside starting a family, offering the flexibility to shape both her work and life. That balance continues to influence her approach today.

At the core of Olivia’s work is a commitment to listening. “My goal is to create homes that truly reflect the people who live in them,” she says. Rather than imposing ideas, she works collaboratively, guiding clients through the realities of budget, materials, and design decisions while ensuring they feel fully involved in the process.

Her projects are defined by thoughtful fundamentals – balancing creativity with cost and long-term performance. Sustainability plays a key role, with a focus on passive design and smart early decisions that improve how a home functions over time.

For Olivia, the real reward lies in connection.

“Working with repeat clients… is a strong indication that you’re creating homes that truly resonate.”

omaarchitecture.co.nz

Anna Dick, founder of Anna Margaret Interiors, has been drawn to design for as long as she can remember. “I used to draw floor plans when I was a girl,” she says – an early sign of a lifelong instinct for space, balance, and the beauty of things.

Today, that instinct is paired with a sharp, practical edge. With a background in accounting and finance, alongside four diplomas in Interior Design and NKBA Kitchen Design, Anna brings both creativity and clarity to her work. Before stepping into interiors, she worked in banking – an experience that now underpins her structured, considered approach.

At the heart of her practice is a simple philosophy: “I’m designing for them, not for me.” Each project begins with a collaborative mood board, allowing clients to shape the direction. “My job is to make it cohesive and make their vision come true,” she explains.

One standout project – a contemporary downsizing home in Mount Pleasant – reflects this ethos. Natural timbers, oak flooring, and ply detailing sit alongside a striking black kitchen, all grounded by a neutral palette that frames sweeping views of the Southern Alps.

For Anna, the greatest reward comes at the end. “You spend so much time with clients, you really get to know them,” she says. “And seeing it all come together – that’s the joy.”

Anna and her team welcome anybody, at no matter what stage of their interiors journey, to visit them at their Ferrymead offices.

annamargaret.co.nz

Bush architecture

Richard Dalman Managing Director, Dalman Architects dalman.co.nz

In my last article, I wrote about coastal architecture and outlined some of the opportunities and design and construction considerations relevant to building on the coast. In New Zealand, we are fortunate to also have vast areas of native bush. So how might we design in this particular landscape?

Reflecting on that, a number of years ago we had the privilege of designing two developments in the West Coast’s most pristine native bush: the 5-star Te Waonui Forest Retreat Hotel and the adjacent Glacier Hot Pools, in Franz Josef.

For the Te Waonui Forest Retreat, our focus was to retain the native flora and make the building disappear into it, so we positioned the four guest room wings in a square layout around a large courtyard with the forest featuring as the centrepiece. All hotel rooms open out onto this space, so guests can engage all their senses with the forest.

Prior to starting the design of the Hot Pools, we used GPS to locate all existing significant trees and even fallen logs. That enabled us to position the pools and supporting buildings between them, fully integrated into the forest.

Franz Josef is a remote area, so we needed to consider how construction would be undertaken. It was decided to prefabricate many of the building and pool elements offsite and transport them to their end location.

As with coastal design, for the bush, the selection of materials is also critical. We used natural products such as timber where possible. We also specified concrete and left the surfaces rough and textured so they would patina over time, and allow the bush to grow over and around them to further blend the building into the environment.

Designing respectfully in response to the environment was our priority; for example, we created large overhangs around the hotel so guests could sit on their balconies sheltered from the intense rain but be immersed in nature, and we celebrated the rain in the Hot Pools with a large sculptural ‘rain collector’.

At ground level, the forest floor can be damp and mossy, whilst higher up, the light filters through the trees, creating dappled patterns. In the hotel, we accentuated these different characteristics with the ground-floor bar being dark and atmospheric, and the firstfloor restaurant being light and airy with a balcony that extends out into the tree canopy.

I believe the best architecture respects and responds to its local environment, and in the case of the West Coast bush, protects from the rain, shelters from the wind, maximises the filtered sunlight, and blends into the various shades of green.

BY DESIGN

Sanctuary on Conference Street

Matt Smith of MattSmithCo and Limited Projects, collaborating with his brother Jeremy Smith of Woodsmith Builders, set out to create a calm, urban sanctuary – and delivered without compromise.

Matt Smith, designer and developer, wants you to forget about the world outside when you walk through the door of these two north-facing, three-bedroom townhouses in the CBD. The Council flats across the road and the hum of the city – gone. Just calm, light, and space. It’s very much intentional.

Matt is a furniture designer by trade. He’s worked in design for 20 years and has a portfolio that spans bar and restaurant design, brewery branding, and residential

interior design. Over the past few years he’s expanded his practice to include architecture and development.

These two Christchurch townhouses mark a milestone for Matt. It’s his first solo development, designed and built in partnership with his brother Jeremy, builder and owner at Woodsmith Builders.

“I wanted to do something upmarket,” Matt says. “Christchurch is full of two-bedroom, two-storey townhouses. I thought the location on Conference Street, with the more

established houses nearby, called for something quite different. Pared back and simple, but still quite luxurious.”

The site originally held two run-down villas, which were removed before Matt’s design could take shape. His design process involved sketching his own concept, creating renders, and bringing in an architectural designer to manage the consent process. “I’m proud that I got to deliver exactly what I intended to deliver, without having to compromise. What you see when you walk into the space is exactly what I had planned. That’s a rare thing.”

The interiors are partly inspired by the work of Belgian designer Axel Vervoordt, who created a notably serene home for Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, with a cream

and beige palette at its core. Matt says, “I wanted it so that when you came in the door, everything fell away behind you, and you can walk into a really calm sanctuary. The palette is deliberately restrained so that people can move in and make it their own home easily, without it feeling sterile.”

Texture, then, does the work that colour might have done elsewhere. The standout material choice is the Canterbury clay brick – Classic range, Aoraki, an off-white wire cut brick – used on both the exterior and interior. This brings warmth and visual interest without disrupting the overall quiet. Matt has used it on previous developments, saying, “The fact that it’s locally made and also one of the more affordable bricks on the market is a bonus.”

The build itself was handled by Matt’s brother, Jeremy, from Woodsmith Builders. They have worked together on 15 homes over six projects in the past 10 years. Like their previous ones in Merivale, Addington, and Redmund Spur, this one also ran smoothly. Their close relationship made quick, on-site decisions possible.

“I can see Matt’s vision and love his designs,” says Jeremy, of his brother’s work. “I appreciate the work that’s gone into the design and how he makes the designs relatively easy to build.”

Alongside the brick, Jeremy worked with timber and some steel to create the structure for the abode. “Yes, we

encountered the odd challenge through the build process, but that’s normal when building, and that’s what we do. I’m just proud to have handed over a high-quality product to Matt. It’s always great when the client’s satisfied.”

One of the two townhouses has already sold, while the other is currently on the market. For Matt, the project closes a satisfying chapter. As for what comes next?

“There’s always something going on,” says Jeremy. This time it’s a mid-century house in Mount Pleasant, bought as a home for Matt and his family. This project, Matt says, will be a far more playful affair, given that a three-year-old and a one-year-old now have a say in the proceedings.

matt-smith.co | limitedprojects.com | woodsmith.co.nz

Clay bricks locally manufactured for commercial and residential projects throughout New Zealand for over 60 years.

BY DESIGN

CANTERBURY’S APPEAL

With Carbon Property now in its third year, the company has kicked off another industrial development in the southwest of the city – a clear signal of continued momentum and confidence in Canterbury’s industrial sector.

This latest project began when an experienced Central Otago-based investor sought out Carbon Property to deliver a warehouse development in the region. Canterbury is increasingly seen as a promising alternative for out-of-town investors – particularly those looking beyond the crowded commercial landscape of Queenstown and Auckland – offering land, infrastructure access, and long-term growth potential.

The site sits within Mānia Park, a Ngāi Tahu land development in Hornby, strategically positioned near key transport links. From here, heavy goods vehicles can easily access state highways to the north, south, and west, as well as Port Lyttelton. The Southern Motorway provides a direct connection between Christchurch and Rolleston, while Christchurch Airport is just 12 minutes away.

For Carbon Property, the brief was both simple and complex. The team was tasked with delivering what Managing Director Ben Lagan describes as a “speculative warehouse” – a build without a confirmed tenant, requiring flexibility in design to suit a range of potential users, while also aligning with their typical development approach.

“We do a full end-to-end development management service. Essentially, our client bought a block of land through the Bayleys Real Estate team, then tasked us with creating the maximised development solution that would fit the right segment of the future tenancy market. This requires a high degree of balance between technical development expertise and strategic market knowledge.”

To achieve this, Ben compares the process to baking a cake. “You have your key development ingredients – the

finite parameters of the existing site and what you can realistically achieve with site coverage while overlaying the latest transport trends and how these impact a future occupant. We then summarise how these interact with current property valuation trends and rental expectations from an investment perspective. We also look at where industrial property trends are heading based on larger markets like Auckland and Australia, and factor in what will be useful in the years to come. It’s this knowledge that we draw on to set up the best outcome for our clients.”

“The investor is essentially taking a punt on where the future tenants and their businesses will be in 12 to 18 months”, says Ben.

The latest Quarterly Canterbury Business Survey from Business Canterbury supports that optimism. According to the report, 76 per cent of Canterbury businesses expect the regional economy to strengthen over the next 12 months. Meanwhile, 71 per cent plan to invest in property, plant and equipment, and 70 per cent anticipate hiring new staff. At the same time, 84 per cent say they are confident in their ability to manage disruption.

For Ben, this noticeable shift in investor behaviour is clear. Where capital has previously sat on the sidelines, there is now a growing appetite to move earlier – even without tenants locked in.

“What’s most exciting is that late last year, we started to see a change in investor sentiment in the industrial property sector. Investors are no longer holding back capital and are committing to untenanted properties with the view to prelease them before the project completion date.”

“This is a huge sign of confidence in the Canterbury region, and it is great that pre-emptive investment capital is finally starting to re-deploy back into the market. Positive news ahead for Canterbury.”

carbonproperty.co.nz

Slow gold

Autumn in Arrowtown and Wānaka is a time to slow down, take in your surroundings, and explore.

When the leaves turn, the wandering season begins.

Enjoy the last golden glow of autumn with a visit to Arrowtown in May, when the pace slows down, and the trees planted by nineteenth-century gold miners transform Buckingham Street and the surrounding hills into a painted landscape. Quieter and more relaxed, yet still rich with creativity, good food, and local character. It’s the kind of place where you can genuinely switch off.

Take a gentle stroll or bike ride along the Arrow River, then amble up the high street and let the shops do the rest. Ogle is a long-standing favourite for its eclectic mix of Kiwiana pieces and thoughtful homewares

that feel genuinely local rather than massproduced. Seletti Concept Store blends international designer fashion with beauty, art, and statement pieces for the home.

Francis Patterson offers handmade wooden toys, merino children’s knitwear, European glassware, and well-made clothing – the kind of store you enter briefly and leave much later. Black Teal Bay stands apart for its connection to place, stocking its own organic botanicals tied back to a local herb farm.

When hunger strikes, Cave delivers authentic Japanese cuisine in a warm, intimate atmosphere, with owner-chef Kei at the helm. For something Italian, Bianca by Giovi brings the flavours of Franciacorta to the Southern Lakes – owner Giovanna

Boventi makes everything in-house, from pasta and ravioli to sauces and pizza, with a warmth that genuinely transports you.

From Arrowtown, the road to Wānaka winds up the Crown Range through spectacular autumn hill country. Seasonally, May and June bring crisp air, golden landscapes, and the first snow on surrounding peaks at Lake Wānaka. The pace here is equally unhurried, and the wellness scene is quietly impressive.

As temperatures cool, The Sauna Wānaka, overlooking the mouth of the Clutha River, and the Secret Sauna on the edge of Lake Hāwea offer sauna experiences combined with breathwork and icy lake plunges, connection or disconnection, against a backdrop of the Southern Alps. Hot tubs at LandEscape and forest bathing at Lake Hāwea Station offer gentler alternatives. The Mount Iron loop remains one of the region’s great easy walks, and simply sitting lakeside in crisp alpine air counts as doing plenty.

Shopping here reflects the same independent ethos. Boutique stores 47 Frocks, Devall Boutique, and award-winning jeweller Alice Herald champion New Zealand designers, while artisan retailers offer finds you won’t see anywhere else.

Food is equally grounded. Crumb Bakehouse is a quiet yet stylish café ideal for slow mornings, while The Coffee Dojo is a place for coffee lovers to enjoy tasting and creating the perfect brew. Wānaka’s food trucks keep things communal and casual.

Big Fig delivers generous, affordable slowcooked plates, and Federal Diner remains a firm local’s pick for breakfast and lunch.

Those staying longer can go further.

Southern Alps Air reaches the glaciers of Mt Aspiring National Park and Milford Sound, while NZ Bike Trails offers bikes and shuttles for a leisurely cruise along the river trails.

Two towns. One unhurried pace. Equal parts wellness retreat, scenic playground, and relaxed culinary destination – and at their very best when the leaves are red and gold.

queenstownnz.nz | wanaka.co.nz

FIT FOR PURPOSE

The Around Brunner Cycle Ride returns Saturday 2 May 2026, with riders taking on a stunning 130km loop around Lake Brunner. Starting and finishing in Moana, the event offers breathtaking scenery and multiple ride options for all levels. cjmsevents.co.nz

The South Island Masters Games is one of the South’s most anticipated sporting events, bringing together athletes aged 30 and over for The Saint Clair Vineyard

V I S I T U S

A NEW GENERATION OF CARE

As Nurse Maude approaches 130 years this November, a new chapter is taking shape. One grounded in the same belief that started it all, but built for the future of Canterbury. Set to open on 13 May, during Hospice Awareness Week, the new Nurse Maude Hospice represents both a milestone and a continuation. It is a purpose-built space designed to care for the region’s most vulnerable, while honouring a legacy that began in 1896, when Sibylla Maude challenged convention and reimagined what care could look like. Back then, the need for accessible, at-home nursing support was immense. More than a century on, that need has not disappeared – it has evolved. Hospice and end-of-life care remain a critical part of community wellbeing, and organisations like Nurse Maude continue to carry that responsibility, often relying on the generosity of the public to do so. Hospice care in New Zealand is not fully government funded, and this new facility has been made possible through community support – from donors and hospice shops to trusts, corporates to individuals. Designed by Christchurch-based Sheppard and Rout Architects and built by Cook Brothers Construction, the hospice has been carefully considered in every detail. The facility will accommodate up to 11 patients, including dedicated spaces for paediatric and youth care. Each room offers privacy and garden views, creating a sense of calm and connection. Spaces for whānau and friends have been thoughtfully integrated – places to gather, rest, share meals, and simply be together.

That sense of care extends beyond function into form. The building reflects Aotearoa’s bicultural identity through a series of design elements that carry cultural narrative throughout the space. At the entrance, patterns inspired by Te Tai Pari o Te Wai evoke the flow of water

across the Canterbury landscape, referencing the braided rivers and the awa Ōtākaro and Ōpāwaho. Motifs such as Niho Taniwha speak to strength and protection, while Ngā Ara represents the pathways people travel – both physically and emotionally – through the hospice.

Inside, these stories continue. Pou designs reflect the core values of the Nurse Maude team: mahi kotahi, working as one; manaaki, a commitment to care and respect; tikanga, grounding in cultural practice; wairua, acknowledging the spiritual dimension of care; and whānaukataka, the importance of connection and dignity. Even the windows carry meaning, with haehae patterns symbolising the shaping of the land, and Te Whetū – the star – pointing to something greater, a sense of peace beyond.

For those who have experienced Nurse Maude’s care firsthand, the impact is deeply personal. Supporter Denver Glass, whose late wife Libby was a nurse with the organisation, reflects that “no matter who you were, if you needed care, Nurse Maude was there for the most vulnerable in our community.” His contribution to the hospice is, in many ways, a continuation of her legacy.

At its heart, this new building is not just about infrastructure – it is about philosophy. Nurse Maude’s 130-year campaign theme, “Freedom is still sweet,” speaks directly to that. The idea that people should have the freedom to be cared for with dignity, in a place that feels human, remains as relevant today as it was in Sibylla Maude’s time.

Through pandemics, earthquakes, and decades of change, that belief has endured. And now, in this new hospice, it takes physical form – a place where care happens, where life is honoured, and where the community continues to show up for its own.

nursemaude.org.nz

THE POWER OF TRUST

Lynette McFadden

Business

Owner & Mentor

Harcourts gold

@lynette_mcfadden

There’s a quiet power to trust. And that’s very evident in my industry. There are few decisions in life that carry as much weight as buying or selling a home. It’s not only a financial decision, but also emotional, often complex and, at times, uncertain.

It’s in those moments that people look for something critical: someone they can trust.

My research into trust in the New Zealand real estate industry provided some interesting insights. Overall confidence is high. Real estate is seen to be well-regulated, and the industry is generally trusted, yet that same research noted only a third of those questioned would go on to recommend their consultant to others, or to use them again.

That gap confounded me.

There were many reasons for it. People left the area, were of an age where future transactions seemed unlikely, or preferred

not to give referrals, worrying that it might in some way backfire.

But, on reflection, perhaps a greater level of connection was still needed between the real estate consultant and the client. Trust needs time to develop, and it’s shaped in a myriad of ways. The phone call that’s returned … or not!

The level of clarity that’s provided when issues are highly complex, and the act of listening. All this matters.

Trust builds with consistency, transparency and care, and, for many, it’s not just based on the outcome. Very few clients expect everything to be perfect all the time. After all, markets shift, wars start(!), and circumstances change.

Not every step unfolds exactly as planned, but gaining trust in the person and the process is critical if, as an industry, we hope to improve our chances of being referred and recommended by our clients – the ultimate honour for a job well done.

A Place to Gather

As days grow longer and blossoms return, spring in Christchurch invites us to gather with loved ones, share beautiful food, and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a festive celebration, an intimate dinner, or a corporate event, Manu offers the perfect setting, where every detail is thoughtfully curated so your occasion becomes a story to cherish.

From private gatherings to grand celebrations, Manu is more than a venue – it’s the heart of your most memorable moments. Step into a space where exceptional food, seamless service, and unforgettable experiences come together.

“Nothing was ever too much trouble. Everything was top notch, from the service standard to the food itself.”

Sam Toner

“The food was delicious, the staff attentive, and our overseas guests were very impressed.”

Duane & Karen Fyfe

Curried eggs & other life lessons

Sophie Petersen Food Editor | @fulltimetart

Growing up, some of my earliest food memories were framed by women who made it all look effortless. Annabel Langbein, pulling the flakiest of bacon and egg pies from her oven. Nigella Lawson, flirting through the television screen with a feast of fettuccine. Peta Mathias, dancing around the countryside with a basket of bread and cheese.

When we talk about wāhine toa in food, it is easy to look at these big names. The ones with restaurants, TV shows, cookbooks, and accolades. Granted, they absolutely deserve their flowers. But there’s another kind of wāhine toa worth celebrating. The women who fed us before we knew how to feed ourselves. The women who made something out of very little. The women who cut off our crusts. The women who let us lick the bowl. And the women who continue to instruct us, even into our adult years, to take our elbows off the table and not to chew with our mouths open. My mum has never been one for fuss. No micro herbs, no tweezers, no need to deconstruct anything that was perfectly good to begin with. Just food that does what it’s meant to do. Fill you up, warm you through, and ensure you finish every last crumb, whether you like it or not. She has always believed that satisfaction matters more than spectacle. She’d be just as happy with a piping hot bowl of curried eggs on rice from the Edmonds Cookbook as she would be with something far more elaborate from

someone far more accomplished. Arguably, she’d prefer it.

Growing up, I didn’t think much of it. Dinner just appeared. Lunch was packed. Cakes were made. There was always something in the fridge, even if it didn’t look like much. It’s only later that I realise the choreography behind it all. The planning, the budgeting, the consistency of it.

My sisters, too, have played their part in shaping my understanding of food. My little sister, in particular, approached cooking with the kind of fearless creativity that can’t be taught. Every meal came with a guessing game: what was the surprise ingredient this time? At one point, a crushed-up vitamin C tablet was deployed as seasoning on a pizza. Bold. Questionable. Memorable. My other sister, on the other hand, was a strict rule follower. The kind to read a recipe twice before starting, measure everything exactly, and refuse to substitute a single ingredient. If it said a teaspoon, it was a teaspoon, levelled off with precision. No shortcuts, no improvisation. Between them, I learned that food could be both an outlet for creativity and for control.

So this is for them. The women who fed us, shaped us, and made sure we never left the table hungry. They are the blueprint. The reason we crave certain flavours, return to certain dishes, and associate food with certain feelings. Their influence may be less visible, but no less profound. Thank you, Mum.

HE TANGATA: IT IS THE PEOPLE

Food has always been part of Lisa Levy’s life.

Born and raised in Hawke’s Bay, and the greatgranddaughter of Sir James Wattie, Lisa grew up surrounded by orchards and fresh produce, with a simple connection to the land quietly shaping her appreciation for good food and community.

Her path into hospitality, like many, wasn’t planned. While studying at Victoria University, she picked up part-time work at Dockside restaurant – a move that, like many students, was more practical than purposeful. But it sparked something. Soon after, she followed her curiosity overseas, travelling through Greece before settling in London, where her career began to take shape.

In London, Lisa worked in high-end catering with Party Ingredients, delivering events for royalty and dignitaries, before moving into human resources and eventually landing a role at The Connaught Hotel in Mayfair. There, she gained a deep understanding of both people and process. While in London, working at Rules Restaurant, she met her future husband, chef Simon Levy.

Together, they shared a vision: to create a restaurant that felt personal, immersive and connected.

That vision found its home in Christchurch.

Relocating in 2013, the couple were drawn to a city in transition – a city of possibility. The hospitality scene, while smaller, felt supportive – an intimate group of owner-operators.

In 2017, they opened INATI on Hereford Street – a name gifted by Ngāi Tahu, meaning “to share”. The restaurant was designed to break down barriers between kitchen and guest, creating an experience that was intimate, where smiles and conversations could be shared.

For Lisa, it is all about people.

“People are the heart and the key to your operation,” she says. “They make your success happen.”

Lisa is now a key figure in the local hospitality community.

As Canterbury Branch President of the Restaurant Association, she has helped champion the industry, contributing to national discussions while supporting local operators through both challenges and growth.

Lisa believes there is something exciting happening in Christchurch, too.

“We’ve got such fantastic produce in our region, and that’s what we like to share on the menu. We are a community that celebrates our amazing suppliers, producers, and hospitality staff – from festivals to events, restaurants to pop-ups.”

On 7 and 8 May, Inati will host a special collaboration with well-known chef Ben Bayly of Ahi.

inati.nz

EMMA METTRICK

With nearly three decades in hospitality, Emma Mettrick’s career reads less like a linear path and more like a series of well-timed leaps. It began in 1996 with a summer job at Astrolabe in Akaroa, before a teenage Emma lied about her age to land a role at the infamous Annie’s Wine Bar in the Arts Centre.

From there, she followed food wherever it took her. Sydney, then back to Christchurch for a Bachelor of Fine Arts, before heading to London, where she did a stint at The Menier Chocolate Factory. She also worked at Rules in Covent Garden and the Jazz Café in Camden, absorbing the rhythm of the industry along the way. In Galway, at Ard Bia, she met Paul, now her business partner and co-parent, and together they eventually returned to New Zealand.

The pair opened The Little Bistro in Akaroa and, somewhat less deliberately, started a family. Back in Christchurch, Emma and Paul co-opened Twenty Seven Steps. Known for its warmth and consistency, it’s a restaurant built as much on relationships as it is on food, something Emma is deeply proud of, alongside sister bar; Downstairs. This autumn, a new menu and a series of winemaker dinners signal what’s next: thoughtful, seasonal, and always evolving at the hands of an incredibly accomplished restaurateur. twentysevensteps.co.nz

REA SCUR

As co-owner and pastry chef of Sweet Soul Patisserie, Rea Scur’s work has become known for its undeniable elegance, excellent technical precision, and distinctive creative flair.

Though she was born and raised in Brazil, Rea began her culinary journey in New Zealand, working in a local bakery before feeling the pull to push further. France called, and she enrolled at L’École Bellouet Conseil, where she immersed herself in the discipline of traditional pâtisserie, mastering the intricacies of entremets. Returning to New Zealand, Rea found few spaces that allowed for true creativity. Many kitchens leaned towards replication over innovation. So, alongside Taina, who brought business acumen and unwavering belief, they built something of their own.

Sweet Soul was born from that trust. Its name reflects their ethos: food made with heart, for people. Even the logo, a vanilla flower, carries meaning, symbolising their mother, with three vanilla beans representing each of the siblings. Opening in post-earthquake Christchurch was a risk, but one that paid off. Today, with a loyal team and a growing offering of plated desserts and curated events, Rea continues to shape a space where creativity, culture, and community are as carefully crafted as the pastries themselves.

sweetsoul.nz

Two sugars, please

If there’s ever a day to bring out the three-tiered stand, it’s Mother’s Day. This month, Avenues’ food editor, Sophie Petersen, has rounded up four of the loveliest high tea experiences across Ōtautahi. Tasty towers, adorned with delicate patisserie, savoury bites, and fragrant pots of tea. Whether you’re planning something polished or a touch more playful, these are the spots to take your mum to this Mother’s Day.

GARDEN COURT BRASSERIE

189 Deans Avenue @christchurchdoubletree

At The Garden Court Brasserie in Chateau on the Park, high tea leans proudly traditional. Served daily inside the restaurant, classic bites such as delicate cucumber sandwiches, glossy fruit tarts, and pastel-perfect macarons arrive on vintage china stands. Crisp white tablecloths set the tone, while long-standing chefs and waitstaff ensure a sense of consistency and warm welcome that regulars return for time and again. Overlooking the hotel’s flourishing rose garden, the setting is a memorable one. It’s a popular choice for celebrations, particularly multi-generational gatherings. Think grandmother, mother, and granddaughter, dressed up for the occasion. With easy access and on-site parking, it’s a timeless, well-loved experience by all.

THE STORE @ TAI TAPU HOLME STATION

687 Christchurch Akaroa Road @thestore_taitapu

The Store @ Tai Tapu has become something of a high tea institution throughout Canterbury, with over 800 high teas served in 2025 alone. Each guest is treated to their very own tower of handcrafted sweet and savoury bites, served on charming antique crockery. The passionfruit Dream Slice is a signature item, best enjoyed with a pot of tea or a glass of bubbly. Each tower is a reflection of the utmost care owner Lesley Edwards puts into every detail. While Mother’s Day is their biggest day on the calendar, high tea suits just about any occasion. From baby and bridal showers to birthdays, kids’ parties, take-home boxes, and festive December sittings. Dietaries are well catered, with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options available.

1199 Pareora River Road, Southburn, St Andrews @holmestation

Set within the gracious surrounds of Holme Station, this is high tea at its most refined. An excellent experience reserved for those staying on the property. Crisp white tablecloths, monogrammed linen, and fine crockery set the tone, while a three-tiered stand arrives laden with a seasonal selection of handcrafted treats, made using the best local ingredients. There’s a thoughtful offering of speciality teas and infusions, with the option to add a glass of Champagne for something a little more celebratory. It’s a tradition that nods to the legacy of the Holme Station original 1864 founders, Edward and Sarah Elworthy, whose Devonshire roots shaped Holme Station into one of Canterbury’s most hospitable homes.

MIDNIGHT SHANGHAI

Upstairs at Riverside Market @midnightshanghai

At Midnight Shanghai, High Tea traditions get a glow-up. Trading cucumber sandwiches for bold, flavour-packed bites and a touch of Shanghai elegance. Positioned proudly upstairs at Riverside Market, overlooking the Avon, this modern yum cha bar reimagines the ritual with a menu that’s equal parts playful and polished. Expect delicate patisserie from the in-house team. Think passionfruit cheesecake, chocolate raspberry mousse, and strawberry panna cotta. Balanced with savoury moments like truffle mushroom tarts and salmon filo cups. It’s familiar, but with a truly tasty twist. Bottomless tea comes as standard, but a signature cocktail, or two, feels like the right move, particularly as celebrations unfold.

This is a cake my own mother has loved for years. A soft, fragrant sponge studded with jammy pockets of fruit and finished with a generous swipe of rum-laced buttercream. From my kitchen to yours, here is a winning recipe for becoming the favourite child this Mother’s Day.

Cake

Coconut & Black Doris Plum Cake

150g caster sugar

150g butter, softened

3 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ tsp coconut essence

150g plain flour

50g desiccated coconut

1½ tsp baking powder

Pinch of salt

½ cup coconut cream

4–5 Black Doris plums in syrup, stones removed and halved

Icing

250g butter, softened

500g icing sugar

¼ tsp coconut essence

½ tsp vanilla extract

2 tbsp rum

Pinch of salt

@fulltimetart | fulltimetart.co.nz

Preheat your oven to 170°C fan bake. Grease and line an 18cm cake tin.

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until pale, light, and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and coconut essence. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, desiccated coconut, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, followed by the coconut cream, until you have a lovely, thick batter. Spoon the batter into your prepared tin. Gently dot the halved Black Doris plums into the batter.

Bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a sharp knife inserted into the centre comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before icing.

To make the buttercream, beat the butter until pale and fluffy. Gradually add the icing sugar, beating well between each addition. Mix in the coconut essence, vanilla extract, rum, and a pinch of salt, whipping until light and silky.

Spread or pipe the buttercream over the cooled cake. Finish with edible flowers, toasted coconut shards, or get fancy with your piping skills. Mum will love it!

ON TOP OF THE TOWN

There’s a moment when the lift doors open at Mr Brightside and the city quietly drops away. Suddenly, you’re somewhere else. Sunset on the tiles, a drink in hand, the hum of something delicious about to unfold. Perched atop the refurbished Public Trust building, this rooftop bar has long been known for its energy. But increasingly, it’s the food that’s drawing people in and keeping them there.

The menu has recently taken a confident turn, now under the direction of head chef Tatsuki Okunishi (formerly of Auckland’s acclaimed Ebisu), moving the bar into its next phase of growth. What began as a nod to Nikkei, the cultural meeting point of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines, has evolved into something a little more fluid. Less about a strict definition, more about a rooftop kind of escapism. Think bold Latin American flavours leading the charge, with Japanese technique quietly underpinning it all. It’s bright, bold, and feels exactly right for a place like this.

There is an ease to the menu that suits the space. Peruvian-spiced edamame, Veuve Clicquot and oysters at

golden hour, and soft shell tacos filled with wagyu steak, duck, oyster mushroom, or crowd favourite, crayfish.

Soy-glazed lamb chops arrive glossy and rich, while dishes like tuna tataki and ceviche keep things sharp and fresh. Fish is selected daily, from Little Fish Co, with the ceviche shifting depending on what’s best that morning. A small detail, but one that speaks volumes. This is not just something to snack on between drinks. It’s food worth booking a table for.

The experience shifts with the light. By day, it’s bright, colourful, and relaxed, with weekend lunches stretching into champagne-fuelled afternoons. By night, the energy builds. DJs take over, the rooftop glows, and dinner seamlessly folds into dancing. Or midweek, you’ll find something more intimate. Attentive table service, considered plates, and a front-row seat to the Avon.

A tight, thoughtful cocktail list leans into the classics, like their signature gin and tonic collection and margaritas. The wine list balances familiar favourites with more adventurous drops. From golden hour oysters paired with something cold and sharp, to one last round before the dance floor, it’s all designed to be both approachable and a little indulgent.

mrbrightside.co.nz

FISHMONGERS’ SONS

Fishmongers’ Sons is a story generations in the making. A concept restaurant dreamt up by chef David Kim and Yotti Ioannou (of Theo’s Fisheries). Two schoolmates, whose families have worked side by side in the fish trade for over 20 years. Both a nod to the past and a confident step forward.

Where their fathers built a legacy on trust, quality, and relationships, David and Yotti are carrying that ethos into a new era. David, formerly a chef at Ōtautahi favourite, Gatherings, and with time spent in kitchens across Melbourne, brings technical skill and a distinctly creative lens. He also holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts, which shows up in the thoughtful, design-led nature of each plate. Yotti, meanwhile, is deeply embedded in the supply side, with an instinctive understanding of seafood and seasonality that only comes from a lifetime growing up in the trade.

Their first pop-up, held at Lillies on 18 February, was an immediate success. A day of dining that was all about culinary collaboration, creativity, and education. But this is just the beginning. The pair plan to take Fishmongers’

Sons across a range of venues, reaching new audiences while championing an often-overlooked aspect of New Zealand’s food story: seasonal seafood.

While we talk endlessly about seasonal produce, fish rarely receive the same treatment. Yet it should. Varieties shift not just in availability, but in quality. Varieties growing fattier in winter, roe-laden at certain times of year, offering an ever-changing landscape of flavour. Fishmongers’ Sons is intent on moving diners beyond the usual suspects of gurnard, tarakihi, and cod, and towards a deeper appreciation of what’s available, and when.

At its heart, the project is about connection. With local fishers, farmers, and creatives, each event is designed as a collaboration that brings people closer to the source. It’s paddock-to-plate, reimagined through a seafood lens. Longer term, the vision is clear: to help shape Christchurch into a destination for great fish cookery. In the meantime, Fishermongers’ Sons is giving diners something just as valuable. Confidence and curiosity to be eating, enjoying, and cooking more seafood year-round.

@fishmongerssons | theosfisheries.co.nz

MAY I HAVE SOME MORE?

SHARPEN UP

Roll your way to razor-sharp: a cult favourite knife sharpener has landed in NZ. German-made HORL® introduces a rolling system with a magnetic angle guide, designed for consistent results. Using 15° and 20° angles, it suits a range of knives and requires little experience. From home kitchens to outdoor settings, it offers a straightforward approach to maintaining a sharp edge. shop.horl.com

SIN AND SMOKE

What happens when you turn a cheeseboard into a cocktail? Meet Sin and Smoke, Arnie from Zodiac Bar’s latest creation. Blending smoked chilli rum, tomato liqueur, blue cheese infusion, and clarified tomato juice, it’s bold, unexpected, and seriously delicious. This drink is as perfect as an accompaniment to a meal or as an aperitif. Want to try it? Head to Avenues’ Instagram or visit Zodiac. zodiacbar.co.nz

SERIOUS SIPPING

Terps and Co’s GIN-{LIKE} delivers the classic botanical gin experience, without the alcohol. Made in New Zealand, this plant-based, gluten-free spirit contains less than three calories per 30ml serve and is crafted with 100 per cent natural ingredients. Distilled extracts of peppercorn, clove, bitters, and juniper create a clean, crisp flavour perfect for a G&T, over ice, or in cocktails. drinkterps.co.nz

DINING DONE RIGHT

Christchurch’s Tramway Restaurant is a local institution offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Combining elevated cuisine and New Zealand wines with sightseeing from a restored centuryold tramcar, it’s perfect for all sorts of occasions. You’ll see the tram departing at 7.30pm daily with additional services on selected dates, including their annual Mother’s Day Lunch on Sunday 10 May. See their website for details and bookings. christchurchattractions.nz

Educate a student, strengthen a community

Dr Hamish Campbell MP for Ilam Deputy Chair of the Health Select Committee and the Economic Development, Science and Innovation Select Committee

There is a long-held principle that a rising tide lifts all boats. When we invest in the right foundations, everyone benefits, and no one is left behind. Education is one of those foundations.

Education Minister Erica Stanford is a strong advocate with a clear focus on lifting achievement, strengthening accountability, and ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed. Her key initiatives include replacing NCEA, mandating a structured literacy approach, tightening attendance, banning cell phones, and strengthening teacher training. She has made that principle a priority.

The Government’s reforms are putting this into action, and early results are encouraging. Recent data released in March 2026 shows clear progress. Numeracy achievement across all year levels has lifted to 57 per cent, up from 45 per cent in 2024. Students in lower-decile schools are seeing particularly strong gains, with pass rates rising from 19.8 per cent to 34 per cent.

At the secondary level, NCEA Level 1 pass rates have increased to 79.6 per cent, up from 71.5 per cent. Achievement at Levels 2 and 3 has remained steady, reflecting a resilient system during a period of change.

Attendance is also improving. In Term 4 of 2025, 57.3 per cent of students attended school

regularly, compared to 48.7 per cent in 2022. Early 2026 figures are even more promising, with daily attendance rates significantly higher than the same time last year.

These gains matter because attendance and achievement go hand in hand. Clearer expectations, more structured classrooms, and reduced distractions are helping students stay focused and engaged.

In line with the principle that “a rising tide lifts all boats”, the March 2026 data shows, importantly, progress is being made across all groups. Māori student achievement is improving, with more students meeting literacy and numeracy requirements and increased attainment at NCEA Level 3 and University Entrance.

We believe every student deserves access to a high-quality education, regardless of background. At the same time, education is not one-size-fits-all. Targeted support ensures schools can meet diverse learning needs while maintaining high expectations.

When education policy is well designed and effectively implemented, it delivers real results. We will continue to invest in teaching and learning, because we are not only helping students succeed, we are also strengthening families, communities, and New Zealand’s future.

Hamish Campbell, MP for Ilam, Funded by Parliamentary Service.

Authorised by H Campbell, Parliament Buildings, Wellington. For more information, visit facebook.com/hamishcampbellforilam or email hamish.campbell@parliament.govt.nz

Evelyn

BURNSIDE

“Originally, we came from Colombia, but we moved to Ecuador for about three years, and then we came from Ecuador to New Zealand in 2018. We moved to Nelson first.

“I used to work with a big immigration organisation. They offered a job here and an opportunity for my daughters and my son. I couldn’t see it myself, but they said, ‘No, you must have this opportunity to go into New Zealand, because we need people like you on it’. Okay, done. They got me the interview, and I received all the paper forms. I had to learn English, but I’m happy now because it’s good to have a chance for good communication with people and get more involved in the communities as well.

“I’m studying for a Diploma in Psychology. For a long time, I saw how hard it is for Spanish-speaking people in the community. No one was coming to receive any treatment or counselling support, so I needed to do

something. I chose to study there to support all people, not only Colombians, but also all Latin Americans. It’s not about money; it’s about supporting other people. We just want to bring something that’s a gift, we care, we have a purpose.

“My mom is a chef; she supported us with education through cooking. That’s why I finished school. My mom gave me a lot of values. She taught me how you need to survive, and I learned a lot of skills from her.

“I have a hair braiding business. It’s not easy to find some products when you live in a small town, but in Christchurch, we have everything that we need.

“I never knew New Zealand existed in the world, honestly. I only heard about Australia, but not New Zealand. I’m happy, I’m grateful, we found lovely people, kindness.

“I like to do some walking and have a picnic. My son is more like an explorer.”

facebook.com/humansofchch