We've got the lowdown on the latest and greatest in the Garden City.

Stranges Lane has had a complete overhaul, saying goodbye to Strange & Co, Orleans and Capa to make room for Soul Quarter restaurant, Cascade cocktail bar and Rascal café. Up the street, basement bar Austin Club has set up shop with a killer selection of cocktails and a late-night post-war vibe.

Pre-quake nightclub and restaurant Viaduct has returned to Oxford Terrace with new views, new menus and a new outlook on life. Riverside Market has launched the Riverside Jazz Club, where you can grab a drink, tune in, and dance to live jazz every Thursday night.

On the fashion front, Briarwood has launched a clothing and accessories boutique in Strowan, and Juliette Hogan has opened up in The Crossing. Coming soon to Moorhouse Avenue is Christchurch branch of direct-from-the-manufacturer furniture retailer Interior Warehouse.

In case you missed it, Fiksate Studio & Gallery has found its new home in Sydenham and it is definitely worth checking out for wicked urban art. And it’s a big happy birthday to The Court Theatre, turning 50 in April – check out the celebrations including a black tie theatrical fundraiser.