Few people know the unique character of the wicket block at Hagley Oval better than Rupert Bool, who helped build the ground in 2012 and has had a decade of experience managing the turf there. Getting the pitch at its best is a big responsibility, particularly for big international games, like the BLACKCAPS vs India ODI coming up at the end of November.

Jeremy Stevens is the director and shareholder of one of our city’s only rooftop bars, Mr Brightside – named after the song by the global chart-topping rock band, The Killers. Mr Brightside is right in the heart of the city – the jewel in the crown of the recently refurbished Public Trust building.

World Netball and Netball New Zealand have announced that the FAST5 Netball World Series is returning to the international calendar, with New Zealand hosting the fast-paced tournament for the next three years, with Christchurch centre stage.

When planning a wedding, keeping your guests fed is key, so it’s important to source a culinary experience that understands your vision and a team equipped to deliver on that dream. White Tie Catering was founded 40 years ago and was carefully crafted by two generations of the legendary Duncan Family before being passed on to her current custodians. Jonny Schwass, a true icon of the New Zealand culinary scene, has taken over the White Tie Kitchens.

As the South Island’s largest community event, The New Zealand Agricultural Show has an extensive history. With 2022 welcoming its 159th year, this iconic cross-generational event brings together a passionate group of rural exhibitors, innovators, and celebrators, helping to bridge the urban-rural divide during three days packed with competition, entertainment, and fun.

Take a journey with us around the city to explore the microbrewers handcrafting exceptional beers. Over the hill is Eruption Brewing, Lyttleton’s beloved entry to the craft brewery scene with outstanding brews and remarkable views. Designed by one of New Zealand’s leading architects Bull O’Sullivan, the 1200L capacity brewing floor is a sight to behold as you step in the door.

Forty-five minutes up SH1 at the Glasnevin turn-off, hang a left onto George’s Road to find 2021 Organic Winery of the Year Terrace Edge Vineyard and Olive Grove. This sun-drenched terrace descends sharply down to the Waipara River, creating an exceptional place for growing grapes.

The iconic and much-loved brand, Nicola Quinn Beauty & Day Spa, has led the way in the Christchurch beauty industry since 1992. What began in one room on Aikmans Road has evolved into an award-winning, large beauty clinic that now occupies the entire upstairs floor of the Hawkesbury Building.

Not many self-described ‘flights of fancy’ have the opportunity to turn five. And yet The Central Gallery, in the Old Library in The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora, has managed to usher in an auspicious milestone in the midst of a half-decade of challenging times for our city.

M.M Linen is a success story that, in true Kiwi fashion, has humbly flown under the radar. It has done the hard yards, breaking new ground internationally and working on producing some of the best bed linen, floral textiles, and homewares for retailers across New Zealand and globally. It really is ‘the fabric of beautiful living’, as their slogan states.

Enriched by a 100-year back story of design excellence, Christchurch architectural firm Totem Studio Architects is a modern, forward-thinking practice with truly strong foundations in the city. Few other architectural practices could boast of such enduring success and influence.

Four talented makeup artists at Ballantynes have worked their magic on this very special feature - showcasing Tom Ford, Chanel, Bobbi Brown and MAC for distinctly iconic looks in our Beauty Is… issue.

Kia ora koutou – he uri o Tainui ahau, nō Ngāti Maniapoto. Ko Maureen Taane tōku ingoa, he wahine kaipakihi Māori ahau. He mihi aroha kia koutou katoa!