Best of the South Island showcased on new page
OPINION: I’ve done a lot of jobs.
I once walked up and down Lambton Quay for a week with a sandwich board strapped on my back. For years, I punched numbers into a computer at a bank. I even stacked shelves at a supermarket in Holland as a high school student. It would be fair to say none of those jobs excited me.
I spent my university years in Christchurch, watching my adopted home razed by a twist of natural fate. Two years at The Press rekindled my love for a place and a people finding their feet.
It was with much jubilation then, that I was asked to head up the paper’s newest addition replacing the long-standing Mainland Live page.
On Monday we launch Ka¯ toitoi, named after the South Island bush robin. Birds have long been known by Ma¯ ori to carry news across the land, spreading a message. Historically, many Te Reo newspapers were named after native birds. Through this new outlet, The
Press will attempt to define the city’s new direction – its new personality. Where is the coolest new hangout? What businesses are thriving in post-earthquake Christchurch? Who is doing what?
Further afield we will discover the best of the regions, including funky new establishments and activities, to encourage exploration beyond the four avenues. Kātoitoi will feature a range of stories each week. Expect conversations with business owners and inspiring individuals and insights into hidden and unexpected places.
We will offer up ideas for daytrips and shed light on appealing places across the South Island. Where are the best picnic spots within driving distance from the city? Where is the best place for your pooch to stretch their legs? Which cafes are kid-friendly?
We will touch on environmental issues South Islanders care about and what is being done to tackle them. We will also look at how technology is changing businesses and jobs.
We will do the hard yards and taste the latest bites around town and, feigning reluctance, sample any cocktail menu available.
In speaking to Cantabrians, the verdict is clear – Christchurch has an indescribable vibe, a certain buzz. People are returning to the central city, new places to eat and drink are emerging and are being rewarded by frequent custom.
Thanks to places like the Margaret Mahy Family Playground, Little High Eatery, and large new developments on Colombo St, the city is beginning to bustle again. People are excited.
So share your ideas and stories with us, whether it be an eatery or bush walk, workshop or cafe.
Expect chats with business owners and inspiring individuals, as well as insights into hidden and unexpected places.
Jack Fletcher
Share your secrets of the city you love.
Kā toitoi will focus on that vibe, define the city’s flavour, and foster a sense of pride for those that call Christchurch and the wider South Island home.