Being writers ourselves, we could wax lyrical about how much we look forward to the Auckland Writers Festival line-up every year. And truthfully, our local literary festival is one of the best, bringing some of the most epic writers to our shores year after year. The 2023 Auckland Writers Festival programme sees a return to the original, 100 percent in-person format, hosting more than 160 live events spanning six days in late May. But with such a stacked line-up, including a raft of esteemed international figures to compliment our local talents, we have cherry-picked this year’s highlights so you can book your space — STAT.
On Never Giving Up: Bernadine Evaristo Thanks partly to the unprecedented success of Girl, Woman, Other, Bernardine Evaristo has swiftly become a household name that defies genre or reader. Often joking that she is an ‘overnight success four decades in the making’, the Booker Prize winner lands on our shores to share her memoir Manifesto: On Never Giving Up. In conversation with Paula Morris, Evaristo will discuss the depth and breadth of her career and how she has used her newfound notoriety to champion others’ creative work and rights, especially writers of colour. Saturday the 20th of May, 5.30pm — 6.30pm
Kim Hill in Conversation with Double Pulitzer Prize-Winning Colson Whitehead Colson Whitehead, a two-time recipient of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, is a rare talent in the literary world. He is the only writer to receive consecutive awards for his thought-provoking works, including his best-selling novels, The Underground Railroad and The Nickel Boys., widely acclaimed for their unflinching portrayal of racial injustice, delivered with a biting wit that can only be described as lived. His latest novel, Harlem Shuffle, is the first in a trilogy set against the backdrop of the civil rights era, exploring the themes of crime and heist. In conversation with the always-probing Kim Hill, Whitehead will delve into what inspires him to create his art, shedding light on his creative process and the motivation behind his exceptional storytelling. Friday the 19th of May, 8.30pm — 9.30pm
Birnam Wood: Eleanor Catton Arguably one of our most brilliant literary exports, having gained global recognition for the genre-bending epic The Luminaries, Eleanor Catton’s latest novel has already been released to great acclaim — and now she brings it to the 2023 Auckland Writers Festival to talk with Noelle McCarthy about what compelled her to write this epic romp through our national parks, with rare earth mining, deep surveillance, guerrilla gardening and so much more. Catton will also join Bernardine Evaristo and Shehan Karunatilaka for a separate panel discussion on the complexities of winning The Booker Prize. Saturday the 20th of May, 7pm — 8pm
Life Beyond The Clock: Jenny Odell Jenny Odell, acclaimed author of the New York Times bestseller How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy, has become an essential voice in our modern society. Her fiercely intelligent and original approach confronts the relentless demands on our time and focus, dismantling the pervasive cult of efficiency. Her latest book, Saving Time: Discovering a Life Beyond the Clock, delves deeply into the fundamental structure of our society, revealing that the clock we live by is designed for profit, not people. This intimate discussion promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of the cultural moment in which we find ourselves, with attendance essential for any with a semblance of social curiosity. Tuesday the 16th of May, 8.30pm — 9.30pm
Bonus Event: The Art of Noticing: A Masterclass with Jenny Odell. This masterclass offers an opportunity for a select few to learn from the inimitable mind of Odell — who credits much of her literary mastery to the subtle act of observation. Tickets and more information are available here.
Streetside Britomart Taking over the inner-city precinct, here, performers, poets and writers of all creeds converge for a night-long affair of readings, declarations and live storytelling to reclaim the land they stand on. Festival organisers describe this as one of their favourite events, year after year. The 15-minute showcases facilitate a spirited and constantly moving experience, where local literary minds are finally given a soapbox to stand upon — and we wait in great anticipation for what they have to say. Friday the 19th of May, 6.15pm — 7.45am
When Peter and Sarah Wren finally passed over the Bambina baton last year after spending a quarter-century at its helm, the question on everyone’s mind was, ‘what comes next for the duo?’. Well, the answer is finally coming to fruition this week as the delightful new all-day bistro and eatery Spring, set to open tomorrow in the heart of Remuera’s new dining precinct.
Left: Spring interior by Katie Lockhart. Right: Fish crudo, salsa verde, fennel.
Inviting me for a walk-through a few days before opening, Sarah explains that food was always intended to be the focus of this new space. Open every day, from 7.30am until 10pm, serving ‘simple food, done well’ was a non-negotiable. “Spring is all about offering delicious, unfussy food, with great ingredients and plenty of flavour,” she shares. Having seen the offering first-hand, I can attest that this brief has been executed flawlessly. The menus here are unique, concise and utterly appealing, and importantly, evolve with the needs of the day.
Breakfast salad, bacon, tomato, avocado.
Breakfast is a delicious edit of beloved classics, and lunch caters to lighter meals (including the tuna salad, a nod to an iconic Bambina staple) alongside a trio of housemade flatbreads designed to share and that will remain on the menu throughout the afternoon. Dinner eventually shifts into a traditional multi-course, bistro-style menu. Here, the owner’s indisputable favourite is the fish crudo, topped with a housemade salsa verde and fennel — with the fish supplied by local legends, Kiwifish. In fact, at Spring, the owners have committed to working with the best local suppliers, drawing on longstanding relationships with Wild Wheat and Allpress, to preserve quality as the cornerstone of their offering.
Left: Black garlic, mozzarella and rosemary flatbread. Right: Spring exterior.
Everything here is fresh, including the kitchen team, who, when I visit, is going through the menu and putting last-minute touches on it to ensure that the execution is nothing short of brilliant. It is an entirely new team that the Wrens have called upon, drawing on both local and international talent to form a formidable force. It is an area in which the duo have a lot of experience, Sarah tells me, and the result is a crew they feel confident can transform their vision into a palpable reality.
But admittedly, the first thing I notice is the space itself — and with a fit-out this gorgeous, how can one not? It was designed with the Midas touch of Katie Lockhart, who worked with the Wrens on a subtle Bambina refresh sometime ago, too. At Spring, the renowned interior designer has drawn on local and international inspiration to create the perfect space that emulates the Wren’s intention of a chic yet approachable destination where it feels warm and accommodating for diners while still standing apart from the crowd.
Serloin, chimichurri, parmagiano, rocket.
Spring is able to seat 70 across its impressive floor plan, complete with outdoor patio dining that Sarah and I agree is somewhat reminiscent of Australia’s internationally renowned The Calile and a mezzanine that also sports its own upstairs bar, which eventually will open to foster a secondary, intimate space.
Despite the fact that doors to Remuera’s Spring don’t officially open until tomorrow (Thursday the 23rd of March), it is evident that the destination has indeed hit the mark. Sarah tells me that it genuinely was a fantastic opportunity in the area. As a longtime Ponsonby resident, she’s excited to branch out of her postcode and get to know a new side of Auckland’s dining scene. Although, we have a sneaking suspicion that Spring will play a significant role in shaping it, too.
Opening hours: Tuesday — Saturday, 7.30am until 10pm
Oh, pampering, how we adore you. There’s nothing quite like walking into a calm beauty therapist or spa, with that delicious anticipatory sense that you’re going to feel (and often look) much better walking out. Having tried our hands at administering our own at-home treatments over the recent years, we have an even greater appreciation of the experts who make it all seem so easy. And here, we present our definitive guide to the most deft at their craft.
Rishika Lata, Park Hyatt Having brought her passion to every day in the beauty industry for over five years, Rishika Lata enjoys all aspects of her chosen vocation at Park Hyatt’s sumptuous spa, from educating clients on their skin to seeing incredible results after a session. One of her favourite and most requested treatments is Park Hyatt’s Ultimate Haute Couture Facial (read more about this luxurious facial here), and Lata will have you immediately at ease with her personable disposition, leaving you relaxed and most importantly glowing after a bit of self-care.
Catherine Anderson, The Facialist Wielding her “magic touch” from renowned City Works Depot beauty studio The Facialist, Catherine Anderson is deeply passionate about enabling people to feel beautiful and confident in their skin — as well as assisting with their overall wellbeing. With a quiet intuition and customer-led focus, she customises each facial treatment to suit the individual (as is The Facialist’s philosophy), and her background in massage therapy means a session with Anderson will have you floating. Our current obsession is The Supernatural Emma Lewisham Facial, a premium 60-minute treatment that employs some of the local brand’s most beloved products alongside The Facialist’s signature manual lymphatic drainage massage for dramatically elevated results in skin regeneration.
Lena Yakimchuk, Spring Spa Ponsonby Hailing originally from Kyrgyzstan, Lena Yakimchuk is a beloved beauty therapist for her ability to tailor her clients’ treatments to their individual needs, and her passion that shines through in each and every appointment. While adept at all facials, her signature treatments are the Spring Spa X Augustinus Bader Methode Facial, and the Signature LED Light Treatment Facial. With Yakimchuk, you can be sure you’ll reach your skin goals while feeling utterly pampered at the same time.
Kate Michelmore, Skinography Kate’s instinctive way of knowing what each of her clients need draws on her ability to apply not only topical skincare but to also work closely with the internal support system. She combines holistic methods like Chakra techniques, energy work and crystal healing to truly restore and rejuvenate, from the ‘skinside out’. To book, click here.
Amelia Story, Room 9 Dedicated to finding solutions to the many skin conditions that affect us all. Room 9’s Director Amelia Story always facilitates a comfortable environment, and fosters a highly individualised treatment regime that combines the best of organic skincare with essential light and infusion technology.
Romy Burgess, Skin by Romy The holistic approach offered by Romy Burgess is unlike most we’ve encountered before. In her bespoke consultation, Burgess draws on her wealth of knowledge to examine not only what issues the skin may be struggling with, but the other external factors at play that may be standing in the way of your dream complexion too. Her gold standard treatment, the Deep Dive, gives you a personalised Skin Wellness Plan by email which includes skincare, nutrition, supplements and lifestyle suggestions, curated to meet your specific skin goals and lifestyle needs. You can learn more here.
Michelle Cook, Rosenthal If it’s a no-product facial you’re after, then Michelle is your woman. Offering a treatment free of slathering and caking, she instead employs the regenerating benefits of massage seeing the face, head and neck kneaded to a state of blissful relaxation. The process is designed to release facial tension (particularly good for jaw clenchers) and promote the natural flow of energy, all while helping to stimulate the skin’s natural cell rejuvenation and repairing process. To book, click here.
Morgan West, Skintopia Late last year I was delighted to experience a series of new Dermologica treatments at Skintopia, and had the great pleasure of meeting Morgan. Truly knowledgable about the skin, and the seemingly endless multitude of ways that hormones can influence it, it’s safe to say I’ve never walked out of a facial so satisfied that my skin’s needs have actually been met. No facial here is ever the same, with each treatment regime designed in phases around your skins individual needs, which can vary every time you visit. And with a treatment like this, it is so essential you find someone that can actually walk the walk — a rareity indeed. To discover the treatment menu, click here.
Nandika Singh, Malkia Beauty Nandika Singh, owner of Malkia Beauty, hails from a lineage of beauty therapists. Her grandmother’s famed milk baths and herbal facials drew admiration from Fijians, while her mother advanced the business to cater to loyal clientele. Singh embarked on her own journey at a tender age, self-taught in the art of leg waxing, until formal training at Elite International and CIDESCO. With a growing passion for skincare, Singh seeks to assist clients with their concerns and impart knowledge, through both face-to-face and online consultations.
Rosie Huggard, Tonic Skin & Body Harnessing the best of Sothys signature skincare range, a facial at this Old Titirangi Village spa is undeniably one of the best investments you can make in your skin. A long-standing facialist with an excellent reputation (touted as one of the best among Aucklanders in the know), we’d recommend the Sothys MD Booster Treatment for lasting results — a unique blend of aesthetic abrasion, needling and vibrational massage. Discover more about the treatment here.
Even the most discerning of diners will admit that few things hit the spot quite like an indulgent burger, and we count ourselves very lucky indeed that Auckland seems to be serving up an endless offering. Aficionados will be familiar with, Lucky Gs, which really has been a pioneer in the local smashburger movement (if you ask me, it is hard to beat these crispy caramelised patties). But even those unfamiliar with their brilliance should be delighted to know about the burger joint’s latest opening in Onehunga.
Now technically in Auckland Central (as of tomorrow), undeniably closer to the masses than their Kelston flagship, Lucky Gs Onehunga spot is ideal for a grab-and-go meal on those nights when you’re craving something indulgent, but the intimate, diner-style fit-out (crafted with deft hand) is also a cosy and cool spot to pull up a perch, should the cravings be too irresistible.
This second flagship store offers a similar delicious menu to its Kelston counterpart, a destination known to draw diners from as far as Hamilton — the burgers are just that good. But what makes Lucky Gs burgers so sought after? While they’re not the super-stacked, over-the-top style that has been popular in recent years, their beauty is in their relative simplicity.
Lucky Gs Onehunga uses smash patties for its hamburgers and cheeseburgers, a technique whereby the patty is pressed firmly down on the grill to flatten it, the Maillard reaction creating plenty of caramelisation in the craggy edges. They leave them slightly thicker than the usual smashed standard, for a more juicy burger. And as such, their burgers over the years have swiftly earned themselves a reputation as some of the City’s best. Make the trip to Onehunga yourself, and we’re confident you’ll soon see why.
While it’s true that the trench coat never falls out of favour, this season has served up some particularly alluring takes on the timeless style (it’s no surprise that it was a street style mainstay at fashion week). And as the autumnal chill sets in, giving us all a glimpse of what to expect in the coming months, the prospect of outerwear that will not only keep us dry on drizzly days but that can be used to elevate almost any look (even leisure wear) is more appealing than ever.
From trench coats in timeless beige to those in sleek leather and even iterations that make a case for colour, there is plenty here to prove that the arrival of wintry weather needn’t be all bad news. Shop our curated edit below.
Trench Coat Reimagined
While we’re all familiar with the appeal of the classic trench coat (see below) there is an argument to be made for a more modern take, too. Here, the iconic style has been rendered in bright colours, contemporary shapes and sleek leather, offering a statement-making twist on the staple.
From left: Double-breasted leather trench coat from Prada, Long Trench from Saint Laurent, Waterloo Trench Coat from Burberry, Crinkle Effect Metallized Trench Coat from Louis Vuitton, Belted leather trench coat from Gucci.
Can’t Beat a Classic
There is something about the beige trench that simply never fails. Whether it is precisely tailored and demure, or garishly voluminous, this style of coat, worn over virtually any look, will take your style credit to the next level. After all, there is a reason that it has remained a staple of the sartorially-savvy throughout a number of decades and trends. You will never fall foul of fashion with a piece like this in your wardrobe.
From left: Trench Coat from Saint Laurent, Oversized trench coat from Balenciaga, EKD Cotton Gabardine Trench Coat from Burberry, Acne Studios trench coat from Workshop, Loewe Cape-effect cotton-gabardine trench coat from Faradays.
In the frenzied rush of modern life, it is easy to overlook the beauty and poetry of the everyday. Yet, in The Studio of Tableware’s current sale, one can find a small oasis of artistry and elegance amidst the cacophony of the mundane. Here, in this corner of the retail world, wine and beer glasses become more than just vessels of purpose and instead, become vehicles of culture and tradition. In fact, this sale promises not just discounts (with 20% off everything wine and beer related, and specials up to 60 percent), but the opportunity to cut to the heart of the libations for which they have been designed, to celebrate their complexity and history.
As such, our editors have earmarked their must-have items in this covetable sale, and we’d suggest getting in quickly while the prices are still hot.
Wine Glasses
Today’s wine glasses are not simply vessels for holding and consuming wine, but rather, are carefully designed pieces that enhance and elevate the entire experience of drinking. From sleek and modern designs to ornate and traditional styles, these wine glasses are canvases upon which the artistry and creativity of their makers can be expressed.
From classic pint glasses to more avant-garde designs, beer glasses are a testament to the evolving tastes and preferences of the modern drinker, while also paying homage to the rich history and culture of beer brewing. Whether adorned with intricate patterns or more understated, this coveted selection offers a glimpse into the ever-evolving landscape of beer drinking and appreciation.
With ornate and intricate designs and sleek and modern styles, decanters offer a tangible reminder of the intricate processes involved in the creation of fine wine. Crafted from both crystal and glass, these decanters stand as a testament to the importance of tradition, artistry, and the delicate nuances of flavour and aroma that define the world of wine.
The wine coolers that command our attention are not just utilitarian appliances, but rather carefully designed pieces that seamlessly integrate into a home’s aesthetic while also preserving the quality and flavour of the precious bottles they hold. From sleek and minimalist designs to more ornate and opulent styles, these elegant pieces are a reflection of the ever-evolving tastes and preferences of the modern wine enthusiast.
The latest in bar accessories exemplify the myriad ways in which form and function intersect. From elegant and practical bottle openers to whimsical and playful coaster sets, these accessories offer a tangible reminder of the creativity and innovation inherent in the world of drinking and appreciation.
We’re on the hunt for an exceptional senior sales and marketing aficionado to join what is arguably the most successful magazine and website in the New Zealand market today. The successful candidate will be utterly self-motivated, possess an inherent desire to achieve, and have an acute understanding of the finer things in life. They will also have an unwavering desire to manage ongoing relationships with a highly coveted portfolio of clients that includes some of the world’s most desirable luxury brands.
The successful applicant will have a proven track record of achieving exceptional sales results, all while maintaining strong relationships with clients. An intimate understanding of all aspects of media from print publishing, to online and social media. The successful candidate will form part of an incredibly passionate and committed team who work hard but also regularly enjoy the fruits of their labour by dabbling in the art of living well. We are looking for someone with an outstanding personality, an eye for detail, excellent communication skills, a good head for numbers, an eye for luxury and fantastic people skills.
This position requires you to: – Meet and exceed budgets set by the publisher via a combination of planned brand advertising and integrated marketing campaigns
–Develop media plans and strategies that are aligned with a client’s objectives – Have an acute understanding of website and social media analytics and strategies and how to implement effective campaigns – Collaborate with the editorial team on ideas and strategy
– Become an expert on successfully executing advertising programmes for a range of clients
– Complete post-campaign wrap-up and analysis
– Attend a variety of events as a representative of Denizen
You are: 1. Proven: You’ll have a minimum of five years of successful sales achievements in advertising, marketing, media, luxury or public relations. 2. Driven: You are utterly driven to achieve and exceed budgets using your proven skills, personality and expertise. Failure is not an option for you. 3. Strategic: A balance of creativity and strategy guide your decision-making. You are an organised multi-tasker with an eye for detail in a fast-paced, changing environment. 4. Communicative: Whether written or orally, your communication skills are outstanding in any context. Your interactions with clients and coworkers move business forward in a dynamic entrepreneurial environment. 5. Solutions-oriented: Your can-do attitude is contagious. You tackle projects from a strategic and creative approach with nothing standing in your way of achieving the end goal.
This role is a senior position within the business and therefore the remuneration is extremely attractive for the right candidate who is capable of continuing to build on the success of what is already New Zealand’s most admired and successful luxury media platform.
From the Platner to the Serie Up, these are the chairs that can be identified by a single word. Designed by icons, they have each become symbols in their own right, utterly timeless pieces that not only made a significant impact when they first arrived but have endured through the ages, and are arguably more in demand now than ever before. Here, we present the iconic armchairs that any design-forward interior should include.
This seat is a stunning example of mid-century modern design. Its sculptural form effortlessly combines curves and angles, resulting in a piece that is both balanced and visually striking. With the human body in mind, the armchair’s inviting shape is carefully crafted for maximum comfort, making it the perfect seat to sink into. Every detail has been meticulously executed, and now undoubtedly a timeless classic, the Delfino Armchair is sure to effortlessly elevate any interior design.
Released in 1969, this avant-garde chair challenges conventional design with its original shape and unique construction. The chair’s polyurethane foam shell is poured into a mould and expands to create a one-of-a-kind form that is as comfortable as it is visually striking. Available in a range of colours and fabrics, the Serie Up 2000 is a versatile choice for a variety of interiors and exemplifies how a designer’s imagination and experimentation can create a timeless object of functional art.
First created in 1928, the LC2 Armchair was the product of a collaboration between Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret and Charlotte Perriand who were all part of the Le Corbusier studio in Paris. The chair’s design was revolutionary at the time, with its emphasis on clean, geometric lines and the use of tubular steel frames, and is now widely considered a masterpiece of modernist design. An enduring classic this chair continues to be a highly sought-after piece for design enthusiasts and collectors alike.
First introduced in 1966, the Platner Dining Chair boasts an iconic silhouette created by a unique construction method where hundreds of vertical steel rods are welded to circular frames and finished with a comfortable, upholstered seat and backrest. A stunning example of how innovative materials and an eye for detail can result in a truly timeless piece of furniture, the Platner remains a popular choice among those in the know.
Dominion Road, stretching on for 7.3km from Mount Eden to Mount Roskill, boasts an array of cafes and restaurants. And with so many options available, simply choosing one place to go is an almost impossible task. As such, we have rounded up a list of some of our favourites, whether you’re in search of a morning coffee, a lunchtime drop-in or a delicious dinner.
Keep in mind, however, that while we’re sure you’ll find something you’ll like at one of the places we recommend, spontaneity and taking chances are two key factors to getting the most out of Dominion Road. So just as we underwent a process of trial and error, if you come across an off-the-beaten-track spot that you want to try, we encourage you to do so. The real beauty of this road is that it contains some of the most delightful hidden gems we’ve ever found.
La Voie Francaise
Morning Fix
La Voie Francaise Although Dominion Road is renowned for its varied options when it comes to Asian cuisine, it’s also home to one of the best French bakeries in Auckland. La Voie Francaise has become a destination spot with punters lining up out the door on weekend mornings just to get their pastry fix. This bakery is also one of the rare ones in town that makes a kouign-amann, which is a croissant that has been coated in sugar and caramelised to provide the ultimate crispy, buttery experience. 875 Dominion Road
Forage Cafe Dominion Road locals swear by Forage Cafe because apparently, the baristas at this place brew the best coffee in the neighbourhood. This spot also has a variety of sandwiches, sweets and savouries on offer that change regularly, and seasonal salads that can be served with a choice of spiced lamb, shredded chicken or halloumi. 90 Dominion Road
Bunhut Try something different and have a Chinese style breakfast at Bunhut. Rather than falling back on the classic eggs on toast, step out of your comfort zone and opt for a jian bing guo zi. It’s a Chinese savoury crepe made from a light batter and fried egg, slathered with hoisin and chilli sauce and then filled with shredded vegetables and a fried bread stick. If you’re wanting something sweet, however, a simple red bean steamed bun accompanied by a warm glass of soy milk will do the trick. 563 Dominion Road
Paasha Turkish Kitchen
Lunch
Paasha Turkish Kitchen Should a craving for excellent Turkish food hit you, we recommend you hot-foot it to Paasha Turkish Kitchen, stat. Prioritising high quality ingredients and truly mouth watering grill techniques with their shish kebabs, hot flat bread wraps, pita pockets and more, this spot is the place to go for some of the best Turkish takeaway in town. 261 Dominion Road
Chongqing Noodles Noodles are, after all, what most people come to Dominion Road for and Chongqing is one of the best places to get them. The broth of these noodles is less oily than other places we have tried but still contains the same amounts of spice and flavour. The rice noodles with braised beef is a dish you can never go wrong with. The beef is so tender that it melts in your mouth while the chewy texture of the noodles contrasts against the soft, succulent meat. 340 Dominion Road
Jolin Shanghai There are dumplings and then there are soup dumplings, otherwise referred to as xiaolongbao. Restaurants that serve this delicacy are hard to find in this city due to the fact that making them requires a high level of skill. Filled with rich meat soup, usually made from pork, the little xiaolongbao pockets from Jolin Shanghai are freshly made to order and boast thicker skins than traditional soup dumplings which imbues them with a chewier texture. 248 Dominion Road
Left: Tasca. Right: Sha Xian Snack.
Tasca Upon first glance, you might think that Tasca is just a little cafe. What you don’t see, however, is that this Spanish eatery has an olive garden and spacious courtyard out the back, making it the perfect spot for a long lunch. In terms of food, while there are many flavourful and delicious options, be sure to order the calamares — you’ll thank us later. 338 Dominion Road
Sha Xian Snack Another delicacy that has people driving to Dominion Road is spicy dumplings. Sha Xian Snack’s dumplings are unique because diners are given the option to change their dumpling filling instead of having to settle for predominantly pork. Sha Xian Snack also serves an oyster pie which is a deep-fried morsel packed with pickled vegetables and a juicy oyster — truly a one-of-a-kind dish. 285 Dominion Road
Left: The Bridgman. Right: Ralph’s.
Drinks
The Bridgman Those seeking a buzzing, local spot in Mt Eden needn’t look further than welcoming gastropub The Bridgman, having taken over an iconic site in April last year. Opened by Sean Lee (with business partner Andy Barnett) The Bridgman is just what Dominion Road needed for a long time, and offers an elevated bar and bistro experience that has made it a popular watering hole for locals. With a delicious menu of satiating dishes (think a fresher take on traditional pub fare) and a comprehensive cocktail and drinks offering, this gastropub is the perfect drop-in for drinks with friends or an after-work bite. 234 Dominion Road
Ralph’s Take a break at casual eatery and bar, Ralph’s. With a variety of Parrotdog beers on tap, a wide selection of Garage Project brews and an impressive snack and burger menu, Ralph’s is the go-to spot for a quick refuel. The jalapeño poppers and curly fries are both absolute must-tries, but if you’re wanting more of a meal, make a beeline for the Easy Cheesy Wagyu beef burger. 225B Dominion Road
Left: Ooh-Fa. Right: Omni.
Dinner
Ooh-Fa An intimate space that elevates the idea of the classic pizza parlour, Ooh-Fa is the second spot from the culinary minds behind Pici and has been perpetually popular since opening last year. From its comfortable, warm atmosphere (thanks to the woodfire oven and low lighting) to the considered menu of delectable pizzas and sides, this 22-seater restaurant is the perfect neighbourhood spot to drop into and catch up with friends over a slice or two and some delectable wine. We recommend booking to secure your spot. 357 Dominion Road
Omni Despite being one of the newest kids on the block, Omni has already carved out a solid reputation for serving up some of Dominion Road’s tastiest eats. A succinct, original menu of yakitori and small sharing dishes sits alongside an excellent wine list of predominantly natural wines. Don’t leave without trying the katsu sando with juicy panko-coated chicken patty, a signature dish that must be tried at least once (we won’t blame you if you order double). 359 Dominion Road
Eden Noodles Cafe
Eden Noodles Cafe This iconic spot hardly needs any introduction, but if you haven’t visited Eden Noodles Cafe, we suggest you ask yourself what you’ve been doing this whole time. With locations now in the CBD and in Albany, diners city-wide can enjoy the signature sichuan-laced dishes from Eden Noodles — but we always love visiting the bustling Dominion Road outpost (provided the queue isn’t too long). Sign us up for some thick noodles with dandan sauce, some vegetarian dumplings in spicy sauce and, of course, a cucumber salad. 105 Dominion Road
Hot & Spicy Pot You don’t know what spicy food is until you’ve sampled the highest spice level at Hot & Spicy Pot. At this restaurant, what goes into your dish is all up to you. Just grab a stainless steel bowl, some tongs and get creative. With a variety of vegetables, noodles, meats and seafood on offer, all you need to do is pick and mix your favourites, tell the chefs how spicy you want to go and let them do the rest. Be warned though, that even the medium level of spice at this restaurant has been known to leave people teary-eyed, so you can only imagine what the effect of the top tier might be. 605 Dominion Road
Gogo Music Cafe Cheap and cheerful is the best way to explain Gogo Music Cafe. Although it has a few branches around Auckland, the one on Dominion Road is the original, the biggest and quite frankly, the best. Take a big group and order a bowl of the spicy chicken casserole with hand-pulled noodles, the $1 lamb skewers and some Tsing Tao beer. Devoured among Gogo Music Cafe’s loud and buzzing atmosphere, it’s a fun and memorable experience. 559 Dominion Road
Mr Hao
Mr Hao Having joined the line-up at the start of last year, Mr Hao offers authentic bursts of Shanghai-inspired flavour with dishes such as the Numbing Chicken, a dish which sees gently fried chicken drowning in a delicious sea of chillies and numbing Sichuan peppers. Inspired by Shanghai’s late-night bar scene, Mr Hao is just the place for a relaxed get-together. Alongside the infamous Numbing Chicken, you’ll find a range of tasty skewers, noodles and irresistible grilled seafood, plus a refreshing tea cocktail on tap. 365 Dominion Road
Wang Wang Spring Pancake This place is one of Dominion Road’s hidden gems and one that hasn’t failed us yet. Wang Wang Spring Pancake specialises in pancake wraps, similar to the ones used for Peking duck. But here, diners are given the freedom to order whatever meats and vegetables they want to fill their pancakes with. While everything is delicious, we recommend the stir fried shredded potato, the dry fried green beans with pork mince, and the fried eggplant with mushrooms and tofu. 704 Dominion Road
Spicy House The chilli fried boneless chicken served here has made quite a name for itself and after you taste it, you’ll understand the hype. The chicken is seasoned with a copious amount of chilli and is perfectly cooked so that once you sample it for the first time, you’ll be addicted for life (seriously). The fried rice is also an excellent dish and is elevated to new heights when pork hock is added, seeing a thick, tasty sauce poured over the bed of fluffy rice. 557 Dominion Road
Left: Cazador. Right: Tiger Burger.
Cazador Forget being one of the best restaurants on Dominion Road, Cazador is one of the best spots in Auckland full stop. This restaurant serves unique dishes that showcase ethical ingredients and sustainable cooking principles by making use of all parts of the animal being served, instead of only offering cuts like the breast or belly. The menu changes depending on the availability of ingredients but the charcuterie platter is a staple and for good reason. Combined with its seamless service and lush ambience, Cazador is a must for any Aucklander. 854 Dominion Road
Tiger Burger Renowned for slinging epic burgers with a flavoursome, Korean-fusion twist, Tiger Burger has opened a new outpost on Dominion Road. The perfect place to stop in for a tasty bite, Tiger Burger’s new location offers its signature menu of award-winning burgers (like the Double Kimcheese), and delectable sides (the Korean Fried Chicken and the K-Fries loaded with sauce are non-negotiables). 590 Dominion Road
Udon Works A cosy and compact Japanese eatery, Udon Works is home to some of the best noodle soups in town. Simple yet delicious, a big bowl of their warming broth with some thick udon noodles will leave you feeling like all is right with the world. Udon Works also has a menu of cold noodle dishes and delicious donburi with rice, with a variety of vegetable, meat and seafood options available — plus some of the best tempura we’ve tried. 633 Dominion Road
Left: Meet Fresh. Right: The Gateau House.
Dessert
Meet Fresh Take a trip to Meet Fresh for a Taiwanese take on dessert. Taiwanese desserts tend to be lighter, less sweet and lean more towards the refreshing side rather than being too sugary. The mango shaved ice is a fruity delight but if you want something more decadent, the freshly made waffles are always a good idea. 533 Dominion Road
The Gateau House Despite what the name of this bakery might indicate, it is certainly not your run-of-the-mill cake shop. The Gateau House specialises in South Korean pastries which include red-bean-filled buns that are topped with cookie crumble alongside a wide variety of delicate cakes. Our favourite is the kumara cake — a light and fluffy sponge layered with whipped cream and sweet potato mousse. 375 Dominion Road
The idea of investing in property is an inherently Kiwi paradigm. It’s something that most of us have been told from an early age to do as soon (and as often) as we can. But what if there were other avenues and models of investment available to us that delivered similar opportunities for those sought-after capital gains? (Without having to purchase an entire property yourself.) This fascinating space is being harnessed by local investment company Fortland Capital, whose unique offering is breaking wide-open investment opportunities like never before.
This is how it works. Fortland Capital’s experts identify a promising parcel of land in a high-demand, city-fringe area, before acquiring it and syndicating it to investors, offering proportional ownership and allowing the investment to run debt-free. The team then works with best-in-class development consultants to prepare the land to foster future communities. It undertakes strategic master planning and shepherds the land through cumbersome zoning and resource consent processes, which essentially enhances its pre-developed value. The final step is the divestment of the land with returns for investors, measured in multiples. Basically, the land is identified and managed by Fortland Capital, prepared for development and sold for the purposes of urbanisation — all without you, the investor, really having to lift a finger at all.
Not only is this a straightforward way to invest in property, but it is a clever solution to the huge growth that a number of our city centres have been experiencing. After all, New Zealand’s burgeoning population is already creating a significant housing shortage. Now more than ever, there is a huge need for thinking outside the box when it comes to future-proofing our communities, and indeed, creating new ones in the process.
Ultimately the community investment offered by Fortland Capital is an entirely unique model. There really hasn’t been anything like it on offer in New Zealand before. At its heart, the aim here is to unlock the future potential of our growing cities, utilise the resources at our disposal, and take the kind of long-term, big-picture view that we need if our urban infrastructure is to keep up with demand. Here, the idea of positive urban change is married with the appealing potential for capital gains, and beyond that, it gives members of a community the opportunity to not only buy into a piece of land that could affect their future but to have a say in it and benefit from it in a very tangible way, too.
Currently, Fortland Capital has The Kāmahi Land Fund open to investors, which is acquiring 62 hectares in Karaka, Auckland. The minimum investment is $50,000, with a targeted 38.4% annualised return on investment, and it is open to wholesale investors only. (Fortland’s ownership model effectively fractionalises the land asset, making it a viable investment for a number of investors with $50,000 or more.) Importantly, embarking on a community investment with Fortland is a medium to long-term commitment given that Fortland’s pre-development process could take up to seven years to be enhanced with plan changes, master planning and consents. Although given the huge potential created by the process, we’re sure any wait will be worth it.
Disclaimer: The Kāmahi Land Fund is available only to Wholesale Investors as defined under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013. An eligible investor certificate, or safe harbour certificate, in a form satisfactory to the Manager will be required, together with any other evidence that the Manager requires in order to confirm wholesale investor status. This is a strict requirement. The targeted annualised return on investment projection is not guaranteed in any respect, and is based a series of assumptions in respect of sale exit value, time, and other factors. There are inherent risks and uncertainties and actual results may differ materially and may or may not materialise. Please refer to the Important Information and Disclaimer Section at the front of the Information Memorandum (IM) for more detail on this. The actual returns are likely to differ from the projected figures. Investors are encouraged to review all information provided in the IM and to conduct their own due diligence on the information provided.
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