The timeless, feminine allure of a Louis Vuitton silk square is undeniable. A piece that oozes sophistication and embodies elegance in its soft silhouette, exquisite texture and intricate detailing, a silk square is something that will stay in your wardrobe for far more than one season, and Louis Vuitton’s hugely popular iterations are the pinnacle, whether baring the Maison’s famous monogram or one of its intricate, heritage patterns.
Now, Louis Vuitton has announced the release of its new silk square collection, Celebrate Silk, offering pieces that reinterpret the brand’s beloved iconography in joyful colours and patterns, perfect for the arrival of spring.
Spun from the purest silk, printed in distinctive motifs and available in three different sizes (which means they can be worn a variety of ways), these silk squares reflect Louis Vuitton’s audacious spirit, transforming a classic piece into a versatile and fashion-forward accessory for the modern woman. Whether worn casually or formally, wrapped around a head or neck, draped across a body or tied around the handle of a favourite bag, Louis Vuitton’s new silk squares will lift our sartorial repertoire out of the depths of winter with optimistic colour, and elevate any look to bold new heights.
This year (this month, in fact) marks 10 years for Tom Hishon and Josh Helm’s Ponsonby Road institution, Orphans Kitchen. Widely beloved for its cosy neighbourhood vibe, friendly service and food that reimagines classic brunch and lunch fare with a flavourful, purposeful and sustainable edge, Orphans Kitchen has built a legion of loyal followers who relish its reliably delicious menu and perfectly made coffee. In fact, I can’t count how many times I’ve parked up at one of Orphans Kitchen’s beautiful wooden tables to tuck into a crumpet with honey and a hazelnut flat white. (Or, if the mood hits, one of its famous Southland cheese rolls.) It is a time-honoured dining destination for a reason, which is why we were very excited to hear that it was set to make some new moves.
Right: Ortiz Anchovy
Back when Orphans Kitchen first opened, it was evening only, before slowly morphing into an all-day offering. Then, a few years ago, the decision to close Orphans’ night service was made, to give Hishon more time to open his new restaurant at the base of Hotel Britomart — Kingi.
After a few years of building Orphans’ daytime offering (and having heard from a number of enthusiastic regulars who were pining for something more), Hishon decided to reimagine what evenings at Orphans could look like, going back to the drawing board and working with his new business partner, Dan Gillet (of Wine Diamonds and Everyday Wine), to create a wine bar that took the relaxed, neighbourhood vibe of the day and translated it into a slightly more elevated, but altogether welcoming nighttime affair. “What we do really well during the day is create an environment where our regulars want to pop in two or three times a week, or sometimes more,” Hishon explains, “so we sought to bring that same idea into Orphans’ new evening service too, where people can come in for a glass of wine, a small nibble or a full meal, whatever they want.”
The menu, Hishon explains, is fuss-free and was designed with wine in mind. “It’s been a different approach for me to think about a wine list first and then to build a menu around it,” Hishon explains. “But this is the kind of food I love to cook and eat myself, and the flavours will elevate and complement our wines.” As a result, the dishes on offer in Orphans’ new evening menu are purpose-made to pair with its extensive wine list, which spans Australasian favourites alongside delicious European drops, and a number of Champagnes too.
Left: Ortiz Anchovy & Buckwheat Waffle
Food-wise, diners can expect a series of nibbles, bite-sized starters, sharing plates and a few sweet treats for good measure, with the overarching idea being food that will work with a number of wines and vice versa. Dishes such as a Délice de Bourgogne with endive serve as a simple but fresh starter, followed by the likes of Ortiz anchovy and Myer lemon toasts, a buckwheat waffle (gluten-free) served with crème fraiche and spring herbs, and chicken liver pâté, with calvados jelly and Granny Smith.
Slightly larger options include organic fried chicken with koji mayo and black lime (a serious highlight), a unique smoked-Kahawai Scotch egg with nduja and radicchio, and a pork hock cassoulet, served with fennel, butter bean and preserved lemon.
Those with a hankering for dessert can indulge in tiramisu, black cardamom truffles or a delicious Comté with honeycomb. And for anyone seeking a more elevated experience, 15g-tins of Oscietra caviar can be added to any meal (we are told this is particularly delicious paired with the fried chicken and a crisp flute of Ruinart Champagne).
Left: Délice de Bourgogne
“I’m really excited to expand and elevate our offering once again,” Hishon says, “and to take Orphans Kitchen to the next level.” From Dan Gillet’s expertise driving the impressive wine list to Tom Hishon’s unique, culinary flair, Orphans’ new evening service is shaping up to be just as popular as its daytime one. Officially kicking off tonight, we suggest getting in there as soon as possible to experience it for yourself.
Orphans Kitchen Evening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 5pm until late
Whether you consider yourself a plant-based eater or not, there’s no denying that the vegan and vegetarian fare served at CBD restaurant, East, is some of the best in the City. Set at the base of the Sudima Auckland City hotel (opposite City Works Depot), East was started by lifetime vegetarians the Jhunjhnuwala family who, armed with a love for Asian cooking and a desire to create an eatery that focused on taste as much as it did on sustainability, assembled a team of experts to help bring their vision of an entirely vegetarian venture to life.
Right: Char Siu Bao
Now, the East kitchen is helmed by Executive Chef Stuart Marsden (his impressive culinary history including stints at Woodpecker Hill and Finn’s Beach Club in Bali) and Head Chef Vincent Yan (boasting extensive experience at 5-star hotels across Hong Kong and Macau, where he became a master of Cantonese cooking) who, alongside their talented team, create exceptional food that marries mouth-watering, complex and vibrant Asian flavours with innovative, plant-based ingredients. And while East’s stellar reputation continues to grow, the restaurant is about to expand its unique offering once again, with a new Sunday experience, promising to reimagine Yum Cha as we know it.
Left: Lotus Root Wontons, Sheng Jian Bao, Lo Bak Go & Spring Onion Pancake
From this Sunday, the 3rd of September, East will launch Auckland’s first-ever, entirely plant-based Yum Cha service, giving the delicious dining tradition we all love a delectable, vegan twist. There, we’ve been told to expect flavoursome renditions of classic Dim Sum dishes like Char Siu Bao, filled with flavoursome, sticky jackfruit and Sheng Jian Bao, in which wood ear mushrooms make for the perfect pork replacement. East has even called on a team of master dumpling makers to exclusively handcraft a number of the dumplings on the menu.
Left: Water Chestnut Wontons Right: Har Gao
A few crowd favourites will be on hand too, like East’s Spring Onion Pancake and its Xiao Long Bao Soup Dumplings (both of which we can wholeheartedly endorse as some of the tastiest dishes in town), as well as a selection of satiating sweet treats to end any meal on a high note, from Deep Fried Sesame Balls to Mango Tapioca Pudding.
Running every Sunday from 12pm until 3pm, East’s new vegan Yum Cha is the perfect way to wrap up the week. Offering food that doesn’t sacrifice quality to flavour; food that (thanks to the skill of the people creating it) treats plant-based ingredients with the same depth and complexity you would expect from a more conventional Yum Cha menu, this new service is an absolute must-try, and is set to make East our new favourite Sunday destination. Spaces are limited and bookings for Yum Cha are already starting to fill up so we suggest securing your spot with haste.
Yum Cha Hours: Every Sunday (starts 3 September), 12pm – 3pm
Drawing convivial crowds, dressed to the nines, the annual Melbourne Cup is always a celebratory affair. And while the actual event isn’t taking place until early November, so popular are the viewing parties for its exciting races that Auckland’s best bars and restaurants often release their dedicated, Melbourne Cup events early, and tend to sell out within hours. And considering that four of our favourite destinations have just released tickets to their Melbourne Cup events, we suggest securing your spot now to be part of an atmosphere as lively as all the action on the racecourse.
Bivacco
Marking Bivacco’s first foray into Melbourne Cup celebrations, this event is set to be one you certainly don’t want to miss. Not only will your afternoon here afford you sun-drenched seating and unparalleled views of the sparkling Viaduct Harbour waterfront, but it will also include a spectacular, four-course long Italian lunch with plenty of Moët & Chandon Champagne (including a flute on arrival), fashion by Superette and Fashions in the Field, a line-up of renowned DJs, all the Melbourne Cup action streamed on large screens and plenty of games, sweeps and prizes to be won. Gearing up to be the party of the year, tickets are $250 per person and can be secured by calling (09) 801 6505.
Non Solo Pizza
Non Solo Pizza
Channel the spirit of the Italian coast at Non Solo Pizza’s decidedly chic Melbourne Cup affair. There, guests will be greeted with flutes of Veuve Clicquot Champagne on arrival before delving into a delectable, four-course long lunch, featuring a number of quintessential Non Solo Pizza dishes. Those who really dress for the occasion will want to be a part of NSP’s Fashions in the Field competition, while others can just sit back and enjoy all the racing action live on big screens. There will even be a TAB Big Race Day Pack on site. A raft of rousing DJs will play the soundtrack to the day and keep the vibes going well into the evening, making this one of the very best places to be for those seeking a party to remember. Tickets are $200 per person, so gather your friends and book your spot here.
MoVida
Not only does it feel entirely appropriate to celebrate the Melbourne Cup at an establishment that actually started in Melbourne, but MoVida is putting on a serious show this year, with a celebration for the ages. There, in MoVida’s exquisite dining room, high above the Auckland waterfront, guests will enjoy flutes of Veuve Clicquot on arrival, followed by an exceptional, five-course sharing menu, all while taking in the exciting Melbourne Cup action live on a number of large TV screens. There will also be a Seafarers’ Fashions in the Fields competition with a number of incredible prizes up for grabs, alongside live entertainment, DJs and music to keep spirits high long after the final race is done. There are two package options available for those wanting to celebrate the Melbourne Cup at MoVida: the $250 package will afford diners a premium seat in MoVida’s dining room, while the $200 package includes high-top seating only (and can only be booked for a maximum party of four). So start making your plans and deciding who you want to celebrate the big day with. Tickets can be bought here.
Bar Non Solo
Bar Non Solo
Adjacent to MoVida is the sleek Bar Non Solo, where those seeking a sophisticated Melbourne Cup celebration can get amongst all the action thanks to live streams on big screens, plenty of Veuve Cliquot Champagne, a heavenly four-course, Italian sharing menu and a number of iconic Italian cocktails. Alongside entry into Seafarers’ Fashions in the Field, guests will also be treated to live entertainment and music all afternoon and well into the evening. There is a $200 Melbourne Cup package and a $180 Melbourne Cup package to be bought for Bar Non Solo’s festivities, with former including seating in the restaurant and the latter offering high-top seating only (which can only be booked for a maximum party of four). Choose the ticket that suits you best and secure a coveted spot, here.
Spring is almost upon us, which means it is time to shake off the shackles of winter and give your wardrobe a seasonal refresh. From denim jackets to utility pants to the slides you’ll want to slip into this season, we have rounded up a selection of the pieces you need to add to your sartorial arsenal immediately.
01. The denim jacket
Do away with dowdy denim and replace it something decidedly more stylish like this monogrammed jacket — a must-have in our books.
Utilitarian style is clearly here to stay, so pick up a pair of practical pants (prefereably with pockets) that give functionality some tasteful flair.
Having grown up with a dressmaker for a mother and a tailor for a grandmother, it made sense that Megan Kenny would be drawn to the sewing machine. Armed with an inherent ability and what she calls her “drive to survive,” Kenny has, over the last few decades, harnessed both her sewing skills and her keen creative eye to build a bespoke, bridal brand that has become one of the most sought-after in the country: Kenny and Harlow Bridal.
Here, Kenny sits down in front of the camera as part of Porsche’s series, The Drive, to talk about how her upbringing instilled in her a grit and determination to succeed. “At the age of 12 I lost my mother and then at the age of 15 I lost my father,” she says. “Losing my parents at a young age formed my personality… I chose to dig my heels in and move forward and look after myself, knowing that there was no one behind me that was going to prop me up.”
Woven into the DNA of Denizen, is a desire to celebrate the success of New Zealanders who have not only dared to dream big but have pursued those dreams with dedication, passion and persistence. People who have sought out their own ideas of ‘happy ever after’ with fearlessness and fortitude. Hannah O’Neill is one such person. The cover star of our Spring Issue is a ballerina of international acclaim, and has been quietly working her way up the ranks of the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet, recently achieving étoile status — the top of the top of the ballet world writ large.
O’neill’s inspiring cover story sets the tone for our Spring Issue, a magazine filled with interesting people across gastronomy, design, fashion and culture. From our interview with renowned chef, Michael Meredith (who unveils the concept of his new restaurant venture), to a deep dive into the life and career of esteemed author Witi Ihimaera, to an exclusive talk with facialist to-the-stars, Melanie Grant, there is a litany of inspiring individuals in this issue, promising to carry you into spring with a renewed sense of hope and optimism for the future.
Our fashion and design pages are filled with everything to keep your wardrobes and homes looking sleek and stylish for the season ahead. While our culture section delivers a comprehensive line up of everything to read, watch and listen to over the coming months.
If it’s escapism you seek, look no further than our Navigator pages, this issue is dedicated to the very best of Paris. If you’re one of the lucky ones heading to the City of Light in the next few months, you’re going to want to consult our guidebook on where to stay, where to eat, drink and be merry, and the best places to get your cultural fix.
And if, while you are perusing our pages, you see something you particularly like, keep an eye out for our dedicated QR codes, positioned in the corner of almost every page. By simply scanning the code with your phone camera and clicking on the link, you will be taken directly to our curated edit of shoppable pieces and stories from the magazine.
Out now, our inspiring Spring Issue is available at all good newsagents and supermarkets.
Spring might be around the corner but it certainly isn’t here yet, meaning that we still have plenty of use for our winter fashions, and can find any excuse to add another pair of boots or a jacket or two to our wardrobes.
Here, we round up a range of sleek and practical men’s and womenswear jackets to buy now, from lighter, layering pieces perfect for warmer weather, to heavier styles, ideal for keeping us cosy on particularly inclement days.
Shop our curated edit of jackets to buy now below.
Tiffany & Co. has unveiled Blue Book 2023: Out of the Blue, a remarkable high jewellery collection celebrating the enchanting marine creations that fascinated designer Jean Schlumberger. Designed by Nathalie Verdeille (Tiffany’s Chief Artistic Officer of Jewellery and High Jewellery) in a way that honours Schlumberger’s indelible legacy, these extraordinary pieces reinvent iconic sea-inspired motifs with stunning geometric forms and sparkling precious stones.
Brooch in platinum and 18k yellow gold with sapphires, tanzanites, moonstones and diamonds
Necklace in platinum with a black opal and diamonds. transformable design
Partially set casting of the Jellyfish brooch and loose moonstones alongside the gouache rendering.
Brooch in platinum and 18k yellow gold with unenhanced padparadscha sapphires, rubellites and diamonds
Bracelet in platinum with a black opal and diamonds
An artisan compares the wax model of the transformable Shell necklace to the gouache rendering.
Ring in platinum and 18k yellow gold with a Fancy Vivid Yellow diamond and white diamonds.
Necklace in platinum and 18k yellow gold with tanzanites and diamonds.
When Australia’s famed Argyle mine held its last tender (sale) of pink diamonds in 2021, the buzz was palpable. Film crews descended on the world’s most iconic cities where viewings took place, security was discretely amped up, and the chosen few clamoured to feast their eyes on what would be the last of some of the rarest diamonds known to man. The diamonds themselves were of the most extraordinary shades of pink, red, blue and violet, with the most important specimens given names like Argyle Eclipse, Argyle Stella and Argyle Solaris; and it was the last chance for some of the world’s most revered diamantaires and jewellers to get their hands on these hugely valued stones — by invitation only, of course, and under thrillingly clandestine conditions. To put it in context, throughout the entire 38-year history of the event, all the stones in the tender would have filled up just two champagne flutes. Even the tiniest stones fetched astronomical prices, and many of the bigger stones were whisked away by private hands, some of them possibly never to be seen by the public again.
The Argyle mine has now ceased production, but Tiffany & Co., that most iconic of jewellers, was approached by the East Kimberley mine late last year regarding a final cache of 35 of these luminously-coloured gems, which range from baby pink to red — although in official gemmological speak, the diamond colours come with sweetly specific names like Fancy Intense Pink or Fancy Intense Purplish Pink. Just three of the stones are over one carat in size, which is still considered spectacular for natural pink diamonds.
What is particularly important, however, is that this is the first time the Argyle mine has ever partnered with a jeweller, naming the collection for them and entrusting them to ensure the most special treatment they deserve, which involves a multi-pronged approach. Firstly, Tiffany & Co. will show the loose diamonds to select clients at Tiffany High Jewellery events around the world, discrete occasions where the House’s most VIP clientele are shown some of the brand’s most important jewels, from new creations to storied vintage pieces. On a case-by-case basis, clients may work with the brand to have a bespoke piece created for them using their purchase. A small capsule collection is in discussion using the stones, and Blue Book creations — the house’s one-of-a-kind, high-jewellery pieces named for the ‘blue book’ the brand first sent to customers in 1845 (the world’s first mailed shopping catalogue) may also feature some of these very special natural gems.
“To put it in context, throughout the entire 38-year history of the event, all the stones in the tender would have filled up just two champagne flutes.”
For Tiffany & Co., the fact that Argyle diamonds are of such historically important provenance, is a key one. The brand’s Diamond Craft Journey initiative, one of the very first of its kind in the world, provides clients with the origin of every newly-sourced stone over a certain size set in its jewellery, a novel move that proves that the ‘ingredients’ in their jewellery needn’t be from unknown sources. Human rights are so often abused in the mining industry, and citing the origin of materials is one way of addressing this.
From a now-shuttered mine in Australia to the hands of some of the world’s most discerning clients via one of the most famous jewellery houses on the planet, these are stones with incredible stories to tell — and that’s not even taking into account the one-and-a-half billion years that they took to fully form.
From new womenswear collections to trending styles for men, to a raft of handbags, accessories, shoes, sunglasses, exquisite jewellery and highly-collectable watches, the Coveted pages of our Spring Issue are full of everything to keep you feeling ahead of the style game this season. Here, we have rounded up all our hero pieces from the pages of our latest magazine in one, easy-to-shop edit, so that you can have the latest fashion at your fingertips, just in time for spring.
From the pages of our Spring Issue straight to your screens, our curated edit of the very best pieces of design are now at your fingertips. Featuring showstopping occasional chairs, lounge-worthy sofas, sleek bathware, refined lighting, essential outdoor additions (which should be ordered now in the lead-up to summer) and other covetable furnishings, this shoppable edit allows you to explore all the hero design pieces from our recently unveiled Spring Issue.
If you’ve been flicking through the glossy Wellbeing pages of our newly-released Spring Issue, we have rounded up all the products that might have caught your eye and included them in our curated, shopping edit below. From life-changing face oils to haircare that will give you long, luscious locks, to a concise line-up of makeup for a glowing visage, these are the hero wellness products from our Spring Issue.
If lines are a testament to a restaurant’s success, then there is none more successful than Auckland’s Eden Noodles. The 2022 Hospo Heroes winner of the Cheap & Cheerful category is a household name across Auckland, adored by those who appreciate the authentic art of hand-pulled noodles and the crafting of their famous and undeniably delectable dumplings.
With such a devoted following in the suburbs, it was only obvious then, that Eden Noodles would stake their claim in Auckland’s CBD. A new Commercial Bay outpost within Harbour Eats has fans already swarming for their flavourful fix. As legend has it, the staff at Eden Noodles have been known to handcraft thousands of dumplings today, and with lines already forming at the Commercial Bay spot, we hazard a guess that their daily dumpling output is set to increase dramatically.
If you are yet to try the wonder of Eden Noodles, consider this a sign to do so now. With an opening special that includes a limited-time ‘Super Mixed’ dumpling order, you have no excuse but to head to Commercial Bay and sample the goods for yourself. Start with the pork and chive dumplings in spicy sauce, and follow with the wide noodles in soup and dan dan sauce. Don’t forget to freshen your palate with a side of cucumber salad — you will not be disappointed.
As spring edges nearer and the sun emerges from behind the clouds, we are increasingly drawn to the waterfront, or more specifically, to one of our favourite Viaduct Harbour venues, Bivacco. Not only does Bivacco occupy the best corner site in the whole area, but it also offers the kinds of food and drinks that make after-work libations a very appealing prospect. And now, its clever culinary team are introducing a delicious new bite-and-beverage combo that is giving us even more of an excuse to knock off early and pull up a chair by the bar. Introducing Bivacco’s Mini Lobster Rolls and Tini Martinis.
Mini Lobster Rolls with Hendrick’s Gin Original Dry Martini
Created as a satiating (but not too heavy) snack, Bivacco’s Mini Lobster Rolls and Tini Martinis make for the perfect marriage — the rich, buttery flavours of the lobster offset by the crisp, botanical notes of the Hendrick’s Gin that makes up the base of the martinis. For the former, diners can expect small, pillowy-soft (and generously-buttered) buns, filled with chopped lobster meat, New England mayonnaise and an array of herbs and spices. While for the latter, guests are able to choose from three Tini Matini options, each offering a different expression of Hendrick’s Gin: Original, Neptunia and Lunar.
Left to Right: Hendrick’s Gin Original Dry Martini, Lunar Martini & Neptunia Martini
While the Original Dry Martini just sees the classic pairing of Hendrick’s Gin with Extra Dry Vermouth and Cournichon, the Neptunia Martini offers something distinctly different, where Hendrick’s Neptunia Gin (with its coastal flavours and seaside expression) is paired with prosecco, passionfruit and kaffir leaf. The Lunar Martini is another take still, where Hendrick’s Lunar Gin (a smooth and alluring drop boasting floral essences and notes of warm, heady spice) is combined with rhubarb, Martini Bianco and fennel frond.
Lobster Rolls & Hendrick’s Neptunia Martini
Able to be ordered at Bivacco’s bar as a pairing for $20 (or individually at $15 for the Lobster Roll and $10 for the Tini Martini) this new Mini Lobster Roll and Tini Martini combo promises to hit the spot every time, whether you’re just starting your evening, catching up with friends for a drink, or seeking a simple but delicious, after-work bite.
Yes, the weather might be grim out there, but there’s nothing like some beautiful new boots to put a bit of pep in your step. Designed to elevate any winter outfit, these chic and versatile styles will see you through the remainder of the season, promising to be as practical against wintry days as they are beautiful when layered with your favourite suit-pants, dresses, skirts and more. Without further ado, these are the boots to buy now.
While typically, flowers are favoured for special occasions, birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and for cheering someone up who might be having a bad day, they are also just beautiful to have around the house — the best way to bring life to a space (particularly while the weather remains decidedly wintry). So, in the name of encouraging you to get out and pick up some fresh flowers for no other reason than to simply infuse your home with some fresh colour, we have rounded up the best florists in Auckland — you’re welcome.
Inspired by her passion for connecting with people and with nature, Hannah Low started Grace and Flora in 2017, and then, in 2021, moved her operation to the exquisite Faradays luxury department store. There, visitors will find Low’s exceptional arrangements at the entrance of the shop, filling the space with an air of colourful optimism. After all, Low’s bouquets are beloved for their big, bold presence and their sculptural shapes, and are perfectly suited to sit alongside the latest collections from the likes of Loewe, Celine and more.
Founded by Kelly Karam, who has been in the floristry business for over 20 years, Blush has become a household name for those in search of a luxurious bouquet or arrangement. The company imparts floral finesse to countless weddings and events, while also brightening up everyday occasions for customers from its retail store in Commercial Bay.
Inspired by the flower artisans of Paris’ Montmartre, Florist Millie Austin started La Femme Fleur nearly 10 years ago with a flower truck in Cox’s Bay. Now based in Remuera’s Bloodworth Park, Austin is continuing to build on her already-prolific reputation as a master of her art, creating eye-popping bouquets that play with exquisite colour combinations and high-quality blooms, always sourced fresh from growers and wrapped in La Femme Fleur’s decidedly chic (and unassuming) brown paper.
Helmed by Isabel Johnston and Lydia Reusser, Isadia is a floristry studio that creates arrangements that feel more akin to art than the typical bouquet. Known for their intuitive and naturalistic floral creations, this duo has built a name for the unique ways in which they fashion locally-sourced, seasonal flowers into unstructured but elegant ensembles. If you’re looking for something slightly out of the ordinary but utterly breathtaking, look no further.
Known for their unconventional approach, the team at The Botanist is well versed in creating floral arrangements that are perfectly balanced between wild and polished. From corporate to weddings and individual clients, there is no occasion that doesn’t benefit from The Botanist’s impressive and unique aesthetic.
Established in 1990, Flowers After Hours draws inspiration from the worlds of fashion and design to inform its stunning floral creations. From their colourful Parnell store, this team of talented florists lend their hands to an array of blooming beauties with the same degree of utmost passion every time.
As renowned for its striking wedding and event installations as it is for the more simple bouquets it creates out of its Ponsonby Central studio, Rose Tinted Flowers has long been a fixture on the Auckland florist scene. There, the team creates whimsical, sometimes surprising combinations that never fail to delight with their perfectly put-together palettes and eye-catching ensembles.
Kingsland-based Kensal Flower Studio was initially started out of the home of owner Liv Wakem, who, after demand quickly grew for her beautiful bouquets, opened her own studio space on the Kingsland high street (and has never looked back). There is a lovely femininity to Liv’s blooms and the careful way she assembles each bouquet, characterised by bright, uplifting colours and a kind of organised chaos that really draws the eye.
After setting up her own, dream operation in 2018, Georgie Malyon has made a name for herself as a florist with a particularly artistic and sculptural eye. Greenpoint’s bouquets stand out for their meticulous and moody arrangements, where bold colours and unique blooms are brought together in showstopping harmony.
Started by Brook Thompson, Brooklyn Flowers is one florist we know we can rely on if in need of a last-minute bouquet. Offering same-day and ‘urgent’ delivery options, this Ponsonby mainstay will endeavour to whip together a beautiful bouquet, even if you’ve left it to the very last minute (which, let’s be honest, happens a lot). Offering the kinds of flowers that really will brighten up someone’s day, Brooklyn has become a go-to of ours for a reason.
Specialising in flowers for corporate events and functions, although also known to deliver some seriously impressive bouquets too, when called on to do so, Flowers of Franklin is easily one of the best florists in Auckland and is highly sought-after for its creations that err on the side of subtle sophistication.
Creating whimsical and unique floral arrangements, Anna Dobson started Where Rosemary Grows after a life-long love for floristry. Now, she actually grows most of her own flowers in her small Auckland cutting garden and only sources when she has to from a select few local growers. Her beautiful blooms are grown without chemical sprays and only with natural fertilisers, and her aesthetic reflects the naturalism of her process — perfectly romantic for the day of love.
This florist has been a Parnell institution for well over 70 years. In fact, it is believed to be the oldest existing florist business in Auckland (and possibly, New Zealand). Having honed their craft over such a long and storied history, the tea, Cartier for Flowers certainly knows what they’re doing, whether it’s for a small, personal bouquet or a more significant event installation or wedding.
Offering a range of stunning, individually-created bouquets tailored to exactly what you might need, Vida Flores, helmed by Davina Prankerd, should be on everyone’s list of go-to florists. Its arrangements offer a slightly modern twist on traditional bouquets, with vibrant flowers that promise to brighten up anyone’s day.
Another name that specialises in wedding and event blooms (but shouldn’t be passed up for an individual bouquet, either) Floracentric is a contemporary floristry studio offering arrangements that are sleek and sophisticated while also feeling decidedly modern and grounded in the now, each artistically put together in what feels like a careful and purposeful way.
Known for her bouquets that are wild, and romantic and that truly showcase the beauty of each, individual flower, Nina Powierza has been working in this industry for over 30 years — and her expertise shows. Nina for Flowers is one of Auckland’s most beloved florists for its blooms that promise to turn heads and brighten any room.
Over the last year, there has been a raft of utterly indulgent (and highly popular) burger pop-ups that have taken Auckland’s dining scene by storm. Characterised by their nature of only being on for a good time, not a long one (and drawing frenzied crowds as a result) there’s a new burger offering in town that is taking a more permanent approach (thank goodness). Benny The Jet is the latest concept out of the kitchen of the ever-popular Williams Eatery, set to kick off tonight and run every Friday for the foreseeable future.
Benny The Jet was conceived as a no-fuss, burger pop-up, with Williams’ Founder Charles Williams telling me, the intention was simply to make really, really good burgers, “the best burger we possibly can,” he says. “With that in mind, only one burger [a cheeseburger] is on the menu.” Here, the burgers feature succulent, beef-brisket patties, layers of gooey, melty cheese and a few obligatory pickles. (Vegetarians needn’t worry, you will have the option of replacing the brisket patty with an Impossible one.)
The Cheeseburger
It’s not just a one-off, either. Williams explains that burger night will take place every Friday for the foreseeable future, accompanied by art exhibitions and live jazz — the latter inspired by the torch the owners still hold for places like Golden Dawn. Auckland jazz maestros Joe Kaptein and Finn Scholes will regularly appear, with plenty more to join as the days get longer and we roll into summer.
With Benny The Jet, they’ve also seized the opportunity to work with their longtime friend Petra Leary to produce an exhibition of her most recent coveted drone photography works around the store, all of which will be available for purchase and on display for the foreseeable future.
And if you’re not after a burger (you’re probably in the wrong place), Williams tells me that a couple of extra sides include ‘bougie’ chicken nuggets and plenty of desserts to go around too. His advice is to come hungry. Basically, it’s burgers, art and jazz from 4pm every Friday — sounds like knock-off plans are sorted.
Few brands capture the imagination of global ‘It’ girls like Celine. From its storied history to its renowned designer tenures to the way it evokes that effortlessly chic French style, Celine is the brand on everyone’s lips. Now, Celine has landed exclusively at Faradays (to shop in-store only) with its sought-after womenswear collection available to us here for the first time, alongside coveted bags, accessories and more.
When Hedi Slimane took the reins of Celine as its creative, artistic and image director, the historic brand was riding high on the legacy of his predecessor, the inimitable Phoebe Philo. Philo’s cult-followed contemporary womenswear balanced sleek, feminine silhouettes with wearable functionality in a way that really hadn’t been done before, and had crowned Celine the darling of fashion week, season after season.
But Slimane, being something of an iconoclast, kicked off his tenure at the brand with a bold reimagining. First, he returned the brand’s logo to a slightly modernised version of its original 1960s form by axing the accent. And he added menswear to the line-up, which was music to the ears of those who had followed Slimane’s pioneering career (from Yves Saint Laurent to Dior Homme, where the ‘Slimane Silhouette’ was born). His vision for Celine was androgynous and distinctly rock ‘n’ roll, but it was also a return to the brand’s origins and an indication of the understated elegance and timelessness that would sit at the heart of every collection. It is the execution of this vision that has, over the last few years, seen Celine grow so exponentially.
Slimane also (crucially) introduced two new bags that quickly ascended to house icon status — the Celine Triomphe (characterised by its insignia that looks like a double ‘C’ but that is actually taken from the chain that surrounds the Arc de Triomphe in Paris) and The 16 Bag, named after Celine’s Paris headquarters. Quickly canonised as bona fide ‘It’ pieces, each design saw Slimane temper chic, Parisian timelessness with just the right amount of distinctive branding, allowing anyone who carried them to feel as though they were part of an exclusive club — or, like one of the cool kids (a demographic over which Slimane has long presided).
Slimane’s initial changes at Celine ruffled feathers and drew criticism from those who saw his vision as a regression for the brand, but in time, his bold moves paid off. Now, Celine is more popular than ever, with its sales after Slimane’s recent AW23 show at The Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles demonstrating how the brand has more than tripled its revenue since the designer took over (recently surpassing the two billion-Euro mark). And while Celine is certainly the brand of the moment, the clever ways in which its growth has been guided by Slimane has seen it retain and even evolve its luxury cachet.
Now, for the first time ever, Celine’s full womenswear offering of handbags, small leather goods, accessories, shoes and ready to wear will be available in New Zealand, exclusively from Faradays. It is a coup for the luxury, Parnell-based department store, who is adding Celine to an already-impressive stable of brands, including other LVMH favourites Loewe and Givenchy, as well as Alaïa, Gianvito Rossi and Alexandre Vauthier.
Celine at Faradays
The first buy will comprise womenswear pieces from Celine’s aforementioned AW23 collection Age of Indieness, shown at The Wiltern. There, Slimane paid homage to the indie movement of the early aughts, announcing its timely revival by melding his recognisable, glam-rock aesthetic with an effortlessly youthful but meticulously crafted vibe. It was indie-sleaze meets Celine heritage meets high-octane, 70s, LA glamour, all wrapped up with Slimane’s signature, nonchalant excellence. And as much as it was nostalgia (from the skinny jeans to the low-slung belts and layered waistcoats), it was also decidedly grounded in the now, marrying the kind of low-maintenance elegance we expect from the French with the kind of unapologetic luxury we associate with Los Angeles. Ultimately, it offered a contemporary uniform for cool girls who can throw on anything, and built on the brand’s already-significant reputation.
For Faradays’ Creative Director, Constance von Dadelszen, being the first in the country to offer Celine ready-to-wear is the realisation of a long-held dream. “As a lover of Celine from a young age, I was familiar with the backstory of the house and then became a customer during the famed Phoebe Philo era,” she explains. “There was a huge emphasis on our physical space when Celine was scoping Faradays as a potential partner, and we feel very humbled to have made the cut,” she says, crediting her store’s multi-award-winning, architecturally-stunning fit-out as part of the reason why Celine saw Faradays as the perfect home for the brand’s precious ready-to-wear. If you ask von Dadelszen, Slimane’s takeover has been a triumph for Celine, his unpretentious take on luxury ironically making his pieces more sought-after on the high-end market than ever. “Celine has incredibly strong iconography that hasn’t been thoroughly explored stylistically in the decades before Hedi arrived,” she tells me. “He has such a strength in this area… he takes elements from a brand’s archives, reimagines them and makes them deeply desirable.”
Celine at Faradays
Having just landed at Faradays, von Dadelszen’s first Celine buy was about marrying the brand’s core, signature styles with a few surprises. “Clients will find a wide range in store,” she explains, “from casual T-shirts, caps and sneakers through to fine evening attire.”
“Even though it’s a fashion house that brings out multiple collections a year, nothing is overly ‘trendy’”, von Dadelszen continues. “You’ll buy a piece of Celine and you’ll wear it, rather than it wearing you, and you’ll notice yourself returning to it season after season, year after year. The logos whisper, rather than roar, which is hard to achieve in the luxury industry, and the quality is deserving of the price tag.”
There is no reason why men should spend less time on their grooming regimens than women do and there are a raft of products specifically targeted at men that prove it. From those designed to deliver a glowing visage, to must-haves for meticulous beard maintenance, these essential products should be on your bathroom shelf.
Skincare
Elevate your daily grooming game with a single powerhouse product that brightens, resurfaces, renews, tightens, evens out and protects your complexion. These clean and high-performance formulas are specifically crafted to optimise your bathroom routine while delivering outstanding results.
Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum from Spring Store
Tools
Not only does LED light therapy offer cosmetic benefits, but it has also been shown to positively impact your mood, stress levels and sleep quality. The red light promotes collagen production, the near-infrared light stimulates cellular healing, and the blue light destroys acne-causing bacteria, all essential for a better life. Whether you’re looking for something discreet to pop in your dopp, a full face mask that can untertake the ritual in just minutes, or an all-in-one tool that brings in massage therapy too, these are the go-to tools of the moment.
Regardless of your grooming style, these formulas will condition and moisturise your hairs while providing a subtle definition and a shiny finish, while this luxurious shaving set is an upgrade that every bathroom needs.
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