Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Babiche Martens | 29 Nov 2023
With an adventurous menu that shines a spotlight on local, organic produce, renowned chef and hospitality consultant Lucas Parkinson’s new Piha venture is well worthy of your attention this summer. Taking over the former site of The Piha Cafe (historically home to Piha’s post office), Aryeh, pronounced ‘Ari-aye’, opens its doors this Saturday, bringing an exceptional fine dining experience to the iconic coastal spot. The eatery is nestled into the bush-clad hillside, and boasts an enviable perspective of the beach and, from the outdoor area, Te Piha.
Left: Kumeu Strawberry & Cambridge cream panna cotta
Unsurprisingly, given Parkinson’s resume, the menu is elevated, inventive and delicious. The chef, perhaps best known for his award-winning, Wānaka restaurant Ode (earning one hat, and arguably the country’s most sustainable high-end restaurant during its five-year residence), describes nature as the executive chef of Aryeh.
Nature, he says, dictates what’s on the menu and when. Dishes are guided entirely by Aotearoa’s produce and, as such, will change with and throughout the seasons. Taking great care in selecting wild proteins, sustainably sourced kaimoana, and cultivated goods that are procured with consideration for the environment and the welfare of animals is a non-negotiable for Parkinson, and the menu acts as an exploration of our local landscape.
Organic Cambridge Mapari beef
The debut dishes, available this coming weekend, see the likes of sashimi paired with ponzu granita, finger lime, sunflower and kelp emulsion, and fig leaf sushi rice shard, and organic Cambridge Mapari beef topped with three-day Stonecroft syrah bone jus and five-year-aged balsamic. On the side, diners will delight in Piha honey-roasted young carrots with puffed Taranaki quinoa and a Piha herb gremolata, or crunchy jersey bennes fried in beef fat, served with Piha oyster mushroom and black garlic mayo. And when it comes to dessert, summery Kumeu Strawberry and Cambridge cream panna cotta with strawberry sorbet, fresh strawberries and aerated strawberry milkshake is a must try, while the Far North macadamia crumble with strawberry meringue and young purple basil is equally as divine.
If it’s a glimpse into the process and Parkinson’s craft that piques your interest, on Wednesday nights diners are offered a front-row seat to the action at Aryeh’s test kitchen experience, where an $89 five-course menu comes with a notepad and pen to leave feedback, which Parkinson assures us will be treasured by the kitchen team.
Sashimi with ponzu granita
Right: Mojito with gingerella, Cold pressed mandarin juice & Vodka, strawberry, basil and lemon cocktail
Anyone that frequents Piha in the summer months will know of the iconic address, and as soon as Parkinson spotted it vacant he jumped at the opportunity, taking Aryeh from concept to fruition in just eight short weeks. Inside, a vast Neolith Phedra stone chef’s table anchors the space, accompanied by an open kitchen, a spectacular Atlantic greenstone bar, and hardy wooden tables throughout. There’s space for an intimate group at the chef’s counter, a handful of tables on the covered balcony, and the most coveted spot of all, a carefully laid out sun deck — an outdoor oasis with an exceptional outlook, shaded by sprawling umbrellas.
This Sun Deck space invites walk-ins only, and as such, has a more casual offering — Parkinson’s take on traditional, casual seaside fare. Here, by-the-kilo pots of Coromandel mussels, fish and chips with light nitrous-whipped lemon aioli, and organic chicken wings with moreish horopito buffalo sauce all feature.
As for the drinks, an important consideration given the location, diners will be pleased to discover that the all-New Zealand mantra is upheld. You’ll find a focus on organic and biodynamic wines, a vibrant list of beer, and cocktails (both with and without the booze) based on fresh, cold-pressed fruits. There’s the option to wine match with all menus, too.
Aryeh’s concept is unique in that the eatery will welcome guests throughout summer, until the end of April when it ‘winters-down’, giving over its space for events, collaborations and pop-ups, before reopening for the next summer chapter in December.
With Parkinson’s exceptional fare paired with Aryeh’s location in one of the most iconic and breathtaking spots in the country, Aryeh is perfectly positioned to become the place to be this summer and beyond.
Opening Hours: Dinner: Wednesday to Monday — 5.00pm till 9.00pm Lunch: Thursday to Monday — 12.00pm till 2.00pm
For anyone who has decided not to escape the city for the New Year period, there’s an array of rousing events, delicious dinners and unmissable parties taking place on New Year’s Eve guaranteed to ensure a very warm welcome to 2024. Whether it’s a long, languid lunch, a delightful dinner with family, or an entirely uproarious party that you seek, here’s where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Auckland come December 31st. Secure your spot now, and bid adieu to 2023 in style.
Alongside its Christmas Eve offering, Bivacco will also be hosting a convivial New Year’s Eve affair, bringing in 2024 with the house tunes of the ever-iconic Nice’n’Urlich. Enjoy an evening of great music, endless dancing, flowing drinks and good food. Headliners Nice’n’Urlich will be joined by Phoebe Falconer and General Lee, ensuring the dance floor continues into the early hours. VIP booths are available but very limited, so we’d suggest securing your spot ASAP.
Savor the final hours of 2023 in Kingi’s stunning dining space, indulging in a tasty, four-course dinner. The sharing-style meal will celebrate seasonal, local produce and sustainably caught seafood, alongside hand-picked wines from Kingi’s impressive cellar and a selection of celebratory beverages. Menu highlights include Te Matuku bay oysters, green-lipped mussels and the Britomart eatery’s signature flounder with citrus, capers, and almonds. Toast the New Year with a glass of sparkling at the first seating ($133 per person), or a glass of Champagne at the second ($159 per person).
Holding prime position, with tables overlooking Viaduct Harbour, there is simply no better place to park up and celebrate the year that’s been than at Soul. Revellers can delight in delicious cocktails, a plate or two of delicious food, and tunes sure to get the party started. DJ Andre is on the decks from 5pm, and DJ Tom is taking over from 11pm to see us in to 2024.
If it’s an uproarious evening that you seek, look no further than QT Rooftop’s all-singing, all-dancing New Year’s Eve bonanza. Set to be the celebration of the year in this sky-high, inner-city spot, QT promises an evening of free-flowing champagne, delectable canapés, an impressive lineup of DJs and a dance floor to remember. Tickets start at $100.
At this utterly delicious Commercial Bay restaurant, you can welcome in the new year with celebratory Champagne and a four-course feast. Known for its delectable fare and inspired take on classic Kiwi cuisine, Ahi is the perfect place to settle in for the final night of 2023. For $260 per person, diners are promised a crisp glass of Ayala Rosé or Bollinger Special Cuvée, a tasting menu, snacks, and a damn good time.
Mark the end of the year with an impeccable lunch or dinner at the Park Hyatt Auckland’s lauded restaurant, Onemata. For $385 per person, festive punters will be greeted with a cocktail hour and canapés (featuring an oyster station), before indulging in a seven-course degustation with wine pairings. DJs are sure to get the party started, and the night will end on a high note with a champagne toast when the clock strikes 12.
Bid adieu to 2023 in style at Onslow’s hotly anticipated New Year’s Eve dinner. Start the evening with a crisp glass of Ruinart, served on arrival, before settling into a four or five-course menu, available for $190 and $260 respectively. The early sitting is at 5pm, but for those looking to lean into the night’s festivities, there’s an 8pm sitting that promises to stretch long into the evening — with a champagne toast at midnight. This year, the Emetts have opened the garden terrace for table service too, so we’d encourage securing your spot now to enjoy a New Year’s Eve feast al fresco.
Ring in the New Year at Commercial Bay’s sprawling French bistro, Origine, where the clever chefs will be serving up a decedent, multi-course French menu, with some special additions available on the night. Whether it’s an early pre-party dinner you’re after, or a convivial meal that takes you well past midnight, Origine promises to deliver on all fronts. Tickets are $195 per person and include a cocktail on arrival, and with bookings already proving popular we’d advise you get in quick.
Start your New Year’s Eve celebrations nice and early this year at Beau, which is opening its doors for lunch before the lovely staff clock off for a well-deserved glass of bubbles. Always a great spot to park up for the afternoon to enjoy a selection of snacks and a glass (or bottle) from their impressive wine list, we’re sure you’ll be met with a lively vibe here as you ease into the day’s festivities.
Leave behind 2023 and welcome in the New Year at Gilt, where the martinis are poured from 11.30am and champagne flows long into the evening. Whether it’s your ultimate destination, or a spot to drop in for and drink and bite before heading to other engagements in the city, Gilt is sure to be a convivial spot all day (and night) long.
Head to Sidart to welcome the New Year in style, with an exceptional six-course tasting menu that highlights the very best of local New Zealand produce. Enjoy the eatery’s cosy vibe while indulging in a glass of champagne on arrival before selecting a tipple or two from the always interesting wine list. Secure your spot for $250 per person, which includes the six courses and a welcome champagne, and settle in for a truly delicious end to the year.
Park Hyatt Auckland is set to dazzle this festive season with its indulgent new Christmas collection, meticulously crafted by the hotel’s esteemed Executive Pastry Chef, Callum Liddicoat and his talented team. This year, an opulent array of delicious delights promises to captivate palates and evoke nostalgic Yuletide memories, making this season’s celebrations a delectable affair for the whole family.
Chef Callum Liddicoat’s inspiration for the collection stemmed from his most cherished childhood moments. Reflecting on his upbringing, where Christmas was a huge celebration, Liddicoat has recreated the same joy and wonder through the artistry of his culinary creations, dreaming up a collection that is perfect for all of our festive hosting needs.
Left: Summer Berry Tart. Right: Black Forest Tart
Park Hyatt Auckland’s Christmas collection boasts an assortment of treats, ranging from the return of the ever-popular (and always quick to sell out) Boozy Mince Pies, to a new take on trifle showcasing a mouthwatering array of tropical and seasonal fruits (served in a glass jar) to a tantalising selection of summer tarts, including Strawberry, Summer Berry and Cherry iterations, each a harmonious blend of seasonal ingredients and luscious creams. There are also two roulades, the Berri’d (with raspberry sponge and coconut and mascarpone cream) and the Choc Rollo (with chocolate sponge and dark chocolate cremeux), as well as a certifiably delicious pistachio, raspberry and vanilla gateaux, and The Pantry’s Christmas Cookie Village, which includes house-shaped boxes of dark chocolate gingerbread, burnt butter brown sugar cookies and savoury parmesan shortbread.
The Choc Rolo & Berri’d Roulades
All that said, the pièce-de-résistance has to be Liddicoat’s The House That Ginger Built. Made with 1200 grams of the finest baked gingerbread using a classic European recipe, this gingerbread house comes adorned in a selection of beloved sweets, and will stand as a head-turning centrepiece in any festive setting.
This year, Liddicoat has also created DIY Gingerbread House Kits. Here the house arrives constructed but bare and comes with icing, a plethora of sweets and expert guidance via a QR code so that the whole family can pitch in to create their very own Christmas masterpiece, and make a few special memories along the way.
The Pantry’s Christmas Cookie Village: dark chocolate gingerbread, burnt butter brown sugar cookies & savoury parmesan shortbread
In addition, Park Hyatt Auckland (alongside Eke Panuku) will be hosting Christmas on Your Waterfront on the second and third of December, from 10am until 4pm. An artisan Christmas market with lots of fun activities for the family, including craft workshops, the chance to meet Santa, market stalls with beautiful gifts ideas and delicious food and a number of specials at Park Hyatt’s venues, this unmissable (and free) event will put you firmly in the festive spirit.
With over 20 years of experience in interiors, it’s unsurprising that Lizzi Whaley has earned herself an impressive reputation. However it’s not just the success of her projects she’s best known for. Whaley has used her position as an industry figurehead and CEO of highly successful interior architecture firm, Spaceworks, to champion sustainability, inclusivity and diversity within New Zealand’s corporate culture. And she’s done so with plenty of good humour, too.
Here, Lizzi Whaley sits down in front of the camera as part of Porsche’s series — The Drive, to talk about being driven by progress, the power of great design, and maintaining forward momentum. “I think the secret to being driven is to have a purpose. And for me it’s progress. I just want to be a better person. I want to create better outcomes for my clients. I want to create a better journey for my staff. I think you’ve always got to have something that you’re striving for,” she says. “Design can change the world, and I feel that, from my small corner of the world, I can help make an impact.” Learn more about Whaley’s inspiring story, and what drives her via the QR code here.
With the long-awaited summer well and truly on our doorstep, it is time to start finessing our outdoor spaces to prepare them for plenty of use over the coming months. Of course, one place we always turn to in our pursuit of perfect furnishings is ECC, where the selection of outdoor accoutrements and furniture is vast and varied. Here, in a bid to help you curate a cosy and convivial outdoor space, we have rounded up a selection of our favourite pieces from ECC to buy before summer really kicks in.
Having dedicated her life to studying nutrition (holding a PhD in the area) and working privately with her clients to improve their lives and long-term vitality, Sarah Mitchell Weston carries a veritable wealth of knowledge, particularly in the realm of gut health. Bringing a fresh and scientifically-considered approach to her clients’ care, Mitchell Weston is an expert at optimising health through nutrition via whole foods, careful supplementation and nurturing in her clients a healthy relationship with the food they eat. Realistic, long-term and personalised, her programmes are known to be life-changing, and now, Mitchell Weston is taking her influence in this space one step further with her newly launched collagen and supplement brand, Prochaine. Harnessing the power of marine collagen in conjunction with a unique French melon concentrate, Prochaine’s Collagen Beauty Blend is unlike others of its kind for the way it both supports collagen production and mitigates collagen breakdown — a dual action effect that makes it a powerful addition to any daily health regimen.
Here, we sit down with Sarah Mitchell Weston to talk about how to optimise our health and nutrition, and why Prochaine might just be the key step our beauty routines have been missing.
Exclusive Q&A
How did you get involved in the health and nutrition space? I’ve always been fascinated by diets and nutrition, maybe a product of growing up in the 80s (my mother tried every single diet conceived in that decade). But it wasn’t until my father passed suddenly at 52 (his poor diet and lifestyle had led to morbid obesity, type 2 diabetes, and eventually a lethal stroke) that a light went on, and my future direction became clear. Determined not to follow his example, I switched my university degree from archaeology to physiology and sports science, specialising in human nutrition postgrad. My passion for the subject only grew, and after a number of years in nutrition research, I launched my own private practice, Belle Époque Nutrition.
What are some key aspects of health and nutrition that people often get wrong? I’d describe most people as overwhelmed, and that’s where they start to go wrong. There is so much conflicting information. We’re influenced by trends on social media and forever pursuing a quick fix. But when it comes to health and nutrition, there is almost never a ‘quick fix’ — trust me. Our health is a product of day to day choices, and it can take time to unravel destructive habits and replace them with nurturing ones. Another thing people sometimes get wrong is the pursuit of an ‘all or nothing’ approach to diet and exercise. It’s unsustainable, can lead to burnout and is the reason why dieting doesn’t work. Balancing hard work with self care will get you there eventually.
Prochaine’s Collagen Beauty Blends
What are the health habits you personally live by? Three things: movement, eating plants, and quality sleep. I move daily. I’m not talking about seven days a week gym attendance, but engaging in daily, purposeful movement. Increasingly, research and experience is showing us that regular exercise is not just for aesthetics or fitness; it is crucial for cognitive and emotional health and longevity. Walking, cycling, playing with your kids (dog in my case), dancing, yoga are all ways to incorporate more movement into your daily life. I also eat plants every day. This can sometimes be harder than you think if you don’t plan ahead: make sure that at least your breakfast includes fruit and/or veg. Choose plant-forward options when shopping and dining out. And quality sleep — I can’t stress how essential this is for all facets of health and wellbeing.
Let’s talk gut. What do people need to understand about this complex area of health? The gastrointestinal (GI) system is linked to literally every other organ and health system in your body. If you don’t look after your gut, there can be serious consequences for cardiovascular health, mental health, skin health and hormone production — to name a few. Gut health is quite complex, yes. There is no real definition of a ‘healthy gut’, as no two gut microbiomes are the same. And gut health is not strictly limited to the functionality of the microbiome, one needs to also consider the health of other GI organs such as the liver, for example. That being said, there are still some general principles everyone should try to follow to ensure optimal gut function. Eat probiotic foods every day — these include live culture yoghurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir. Eat prebiotic foods every day — these are usually high fibre foods, but specifically veggies like artichoke, garlic, onions, chicory. Eat a diverse range of plant foods — up to 30 different types per week. Additionally, limit intake of things that reduce the health and function of your gut and liver. These might include excess alcohol, sugar, ultra-processed foods, smoking/vaping, emulsifiers and artificial sweeteners. If you are experiencing symptoms such as IBS, inflammation, skin outbreaks, poor mood and suspect your gut health has something to do with it, look at what you are and aren’t feeding your gut and change this first. If you are confused about what you need personally, come and talk to me and my team, we specialise in gut health.
What inspired you to launch Prochaine? I’ve taken a lot of supplements over the years, and as such spent time studying the industry and efficacy of nutraceuticals: I have learned how unregulated the system is. It’s alarming how little research there is behind common claims, and in some cases the low quality and efficacy of many products in the market. I was motivated to launch a brand that could confidently claim each product was backed by strong scientific evidence, while also including only high quality ingredients at effective doses.
What sets Prochaine apart from other collagen powders on the market today? First and foremost, the dual action of the ingredients we’ve selected. Our endogenous collagen stores are a result of collagen going in and collagen out. Filling up your collagen stores with collagen is necessary, especially as we age, but not as effective if you are not taking into account collagen ‘leaks’. And free radical damage is a major collagen leak. For Prochaine, we not only sourced a very high quality hydrolysed marine collagen powder for everyday supplementation, but paired this with Holimel® French melon concentrate, a powerful antioxidant that reduces collagen breakdown in the skin. This stuff is pretty special.
Not all collagen powders are created equal. How can people sort the wheat from the chaff, so to speak? Consider three things: quantity, source and supporting ingredients. Quantity is important for efficacy: generally speaking, a daily dose of between 8-10g collagen is ideal. Source: marine collagen is hands down the superior collagen source compared to bovine or porcine in terms of absorption and bioavailability, and generally, is a more sustainable choice too. Supporting ingredients: are they proven to aid collagen production or are they just unnecessary fillers at microscopic doses? And are the essential ones included? In particular, two vital cofactors are vitamin C and zinc. Even a mild deficiency in these essential nutrients will impair collagen synthesis. Taking a collagen supplement without these cofactors renders it basically just another protein powder.
How has Prochaine helped you? I am in the age zone where a daily collagen supplement is noticeably beneficial. I now take it daily, and the main thing I’ve noticed is significantly more hydrated and younger looking skin . Basically my skin is now in appreciably better condition than it was a year ago when we launched our first product. Prochaine has become an essential part of my daily routine. As a bonus, the inclusion of vitamin C and zinc in the Collagen Beauty Blend has definitely played a role in preventing illness — I haven’t had a single cold or flu this year.
As we approach the end of the year and yet another summer season (this time, hopefully, with some actual sun involved) we have been reflecting on 2023, and looking forward, with cautious optimism to 2024. The last 11 months have served up a number of challenges, both here and around the world, and while it has certainly been a tough time for many of us, there is still much to be excited about as we look to the future.
Our new Summer Issue taps into the idea of promise, potential and the power of new beginnings. On the cover, pregnant Kiwi supermodel Georgia Fowler emerges from a landscape like a modern Venus, while inside the magazine she talks in our exclusive interview about modelling, motherhood, and her imminent move to New York.
Another inspiring person to whom we spoke in this issue is skincare entrepreneur Emma Lewisham, whose eponymous skincare line is taking the world by storm for its groundbreaking circularity and ethos of sustainability. She sits alongside other notable names on our pages, including prolific designer Rodolfo Dordoni and iconic Chinese couturier Guo Pei (who designed Rihanna’s 2015 yellow Met Gala dress and has an exhibition opening at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki very soon).
Those seeking some immediate inspiration for the Christmas season will find plenty of it in our curated Christmas Gift Guide, guaranteed to help you find the perfect gift no matter how discerning the recipient. While those looking for more long-term inspiration should turn to the back of the magazine to find, in our Navigator section, a line-up of tropical island escapes to book for next year’s holidays.
For anyone wanting to ensure their wardrobe remains seasonally sound, there is a raft of new fashion in our Coveted section, alongside a thorough guide to party dressing for anyone staring down the barrel of a busy silly season. Similarly, our Design pages are full of the latest interior and architectural trends and plenty of creative ideas for those wanting to update their spaces.
In Gastronomy, our Editor-in-chief outlines a plethora of occasion-based dining recommendations, from where to go for a romantic date, to where to take a rowdy crowd. It even includes the best places to dine with children in tow.
And if keeping up with the latest and greatest trends in the health and skincare space piques your interest, our Wellbeing section is bursting with new products, compelling trends and advice from experts in their field, like nutritionist Sarah Mitchell-Weston (of Belle Époque Nutrition and Prochaine collagen) and Sarah Reid (of Embodyme).
As always, keep an eye out for our QR codes, located in the corners of most pages. 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 Summer Issue has been carefully compiled to showcase that, despite the hardships of the last year, there are still a number of people and brands doing interesting, innovative, creative, unique and compelling things. We think that points to a promising future. We hope you do too. Happy Holidays Denizens!
Our inspiring new Summer Issue is available at all good newsagents and supermarkets.
As the holiday season fast approaches, our pursuit of the perfect gift escalates. Increasingly, we find ourselves searching for gifts that are not only thoughtful and useful, but ones that have the all-important X-factor — a certain je ne sais quoi that goes above and beyond to offer a memorable experience too. It is in pursuit of this, that we find ourselves turning to Johnnie Walker Blue Label, an unparalleled masterpiece offering an experience that transcends the ordinary, making it the quintessential gift for the whisky enthusiast or epicurean in your life.
For anyone unfamiliar, in the realm of Scotch whisky, Johnnie Walker Blue Label reigns supreme. Comprised of a complex and compelling blend of some of Scotland’s rarest whiskies, this drop is an undisputed icon, each bottle boasting a unique quality, character and flavour that has given it an unrivalled, signature taste. In fact, the whiskies that makeup Johnnie Walker Blue Label are meticulously handpicked from distilleries all over Scotland (including coveted barrels from long-closed ‘ghost’ distilleries) and are rigorously tested for taste and quality, with only 1 in 10,000 casks making the cut. It is a decidedly exclusive and discerning spirit, designed for those who value rarity, craftsmanship and quality above all else.
And while anyone can appreciate a bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label from the outside, imbibe a sip of the golden liquid and you’ll understand the magic that this particular mix delivers. Its blend sees aged whiskies with gravitas and complexity collide with vibrant, younger varieties, offering a depth of flavour that is layered and intriguing.
On the palate, Johnnie Walker Blue Label makes a strong first impression with waves of spice that give way to smooth vanilla and honey. This is followed by notes of caramel and hazelnut that coarse through rich, dark chocolate before a luxuriously strong and smoky finish swoops in to deliver a warming, sumptuous finale. A drink as good as Johnnie Walker Blue Label need not be tampered with, so enjoy it neat and after a glass of ice-cold water to prepare the palate perfectly. The only thing that could make it better is good company, of course.
So, whether you’re looking for something for the person who loves to entertain, for a whisky-lover or simply a gourmand who truly appreciates the finer things in life, Johnnie Walker Blue Label ticks all the boxes. Its rare qualities and renowned reputation have given it the top spot on our wishlists this year, and the exclusive cache that surrounds it will make it the perfect gift for someone special.
Words Margie Riddiford | PHOTOS Paul Manezes | 24 Nov 2023
On Wednesday night, we invited a group of discerning denizens down to the waterfront to celebrate Auckland’s promising future. Alongside Winton CEO, Chris Meehan, we unveiled the full-scale plans for Cracker Bay, an impressive new precinct that will take shape along Auckland’s waterfront and comprise a multi-faceted hospitality offering, exclusive event venues, a private yacht club and an extension of the Westhaven boardwalk, as well as a full reimagining of the marina (allowing space for larger boats to berth).
It is an eye-watering undertaking for Winton, who conceived Cracker Bay in response to Aucklanders’ desire for developments that would make the most of our proximity to the water in a thoughtful, considered and timeless way. As such, Cracker Bay will revolutionise our relationship with the waterfront, and offer the kind of dining and event destination that our city has been sorely missing.
Given the ways in which this new precinct points to Auckland’s potential and promise, it felt fitting to be celebrating it alongside Denizen’s new summer issue, at the heart of which lies the idea of ‘promise’. With Georgia Fowler gracing the cover and the pages filled with people and brands doing interesting, creative and daring things, it is an issue that shows how, even through the toughest times, innovation and inspiration prevail.
Ultimately, it was a night of looking ahead and raising a glass to Auckland’s exciting future, which was made all the more delicious thanks to a selection of Bayside Rum cocktails and tasty bites from Savor Group. There is, it seems, much to be positive about as we approach the new year; and given that Denizen has long celebrated those in this city who are working tirelessly to propel Auckland’s progress, we are excited to continue to showcase its evolution and team up with people who believe in the promise of this place as much as we do.
While, for many, the festive season is usually packed to the rafters with fun traditions and celebrations, these don’t come without their fair share of work and effort. The trade-off is usually worth it, of course, but what if you could enjoy a sit-down meal on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day where the feast is piled high, the drinks are flowing — and you don’t have to lift a finger?
Some of Auckland’s best eateries have us all sorted in this regard, with their festive menu offerings. Should you wish to let the experts take care of the big day itself, there are excellent options available for you. Otherwise, we suggest making like the Europeans and booking in for one of the Christmas Eve extravaganzas, further stretching out the festivities. ‘Tis the season, after all.
Park Hyatt Auckland
Open For Dining: Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
The luxury waterfront hotel has a comprehensive Christmas offering this year that will ensure you don’t have to worry either the night before or the day of. At Park Hyatt’s flagship restaurant Onemata, enjoy a three-course Christmas Eve dinner from 5:30pm on the 24th. At $170 per person, choose from delectable dishes like a starter of crayfish arancini or savoury meringue; for mains, there’s turkey with ham croquette and cranberry jus or miso salmon with kumara gratin — followed by dessert, of course.
Christmas Day itself sees a four-course lunch served from 12pm, and dinner from 5:30pm. The lunch is $290 per person for a four-course menu and dinner is $220 per person for a three-course menu, with each including a glass of champagne. Both have similarly delectable dishes to the Christmas Eve dinner, yet with slightly more to choose from.
The hotel’s relaxed yet elegant Living Room restaurant has a Christmas Day extravaganza on offer too — at $240 per person for four courses and a glass of champagne. Dive into the likes of smoked kahawai with crispy brioche, crayfish and oysters, followed by a choice of snapper, lamb rump or truffle cream mushroom cannelloni, and dessert.
Sneak in a final catch-up with friends before the festivities well and truly begin at Andiamo’s Otto Hour, where, between 4-5pm, you’ll find an elevated selection of libations priced at a modest $8 each. If you fancy staying for dinner, the beloved Herne Bay haunt is offering its usual Italiano fare all day long, so park up at a coveted street-side table, order a selection of sharing plates and a spritz, and while away a few hours in the late afternoon sun. Divine.
This inner-city Japanese gem is open on the 25th, and has quite a spread available as part of its “Masu Kurisumasu Day” set menu. For $190 per person, enjoy a whole host of Masu’s moreish Robata dishes, from Asahi black beer sourdough with Wagyu butter to red prawn tempura with spicy miso and wasabi seasoning, to crayfish tartlet with ginger gel — and much, much more.
For the most carnivorous amongst us, paradise is always found at Jervois Steakhouse, and this Christmas Eve the beloved Herne Bay institution is dialling things up a notch. Whether you’re looking for a casual pre-festive feast for two, three, or many more, Jervois Steakhouse has an exceptional offer to suit any sized party. A pair of merry diners can opt for the 600g Scotch fillet ($150) while a trio of festive foodies can select a 900g Scotch to share ($220). If there’s a larger bunch to feed, the different sizes can be combined to create an entirely bespoke offering. Each option will be accompanied by roasted garlic mushrooms, classic creamed spinach, crispy shoestring fries, red wine jus, horseradish, and green peppercorn sauce and dessert.
Head to Kingi for Christmas lunch, and you’ll be able to indulge in some exquisite fare, from swordfish with Café de Paris butter to venison croquette with cacao jus, coconut ambrosia with summer berries, and more. Beloved antipasti and raw bar dishes like oysters also make delectable appearances. It’s $179 per person for a four-course family-style sharing menu. And, should you wish to be able to simply toddle to your bed, seeing as Kingi is in the same building as The Hotel Britomart, why not enquire about staying overnight?
Embrace a Mediterranean vibe for your Christmas meal with restaurant Esther’s Feasting Menu at QT Auckland. Available at both lunch and dinner, the set menu is $195 per adult and $90 per child (12 and under). Enjoy Esther’s delectable renditions of the classics, from Cambridge duck breast with cherry jus and porchetta with apple, to more indulgent dishes such as Alaskan King Carb risotto with salmon caviar and baked saganaki with honey.
Although Soul’s staff are having a well-deserved break on the 25th, book in for lunch or dinner on the 24th and you’ll be able to enjoy the Viaduct Harbour treasure’s famous hospitality and delightful fare. Get ready for a classically Soul-ified buzzing vibe, just the thing to ease into a relaxing Christmas day.
If you fancy taking your Christmas meal to soaring new heights, look no further than The Sugar Club. Putting on two special degustation menus for the festive period, one of which is plant-based, the jewel in the Sky Tower’s crown will be sure to make a luxurious affair of the proceedings. For $159 per person (or $175 for the deluxe offering), indulge in the likes of chilli coconut-cured tuna ceviche, pork cheek with cauliflower puree, braised lamb shoulder and more (there’s the option to add beverage pairings, too).
Parnell’s Non Solo Pizza has all you need to celebrate Christmas Eve in the most delicious way possible with its Italian long lunch offering. Kick off the festivities nice and early, securing a lunchtime table, and settle into a four-course feast featuring an array of impeccable Italian fare. For $75, you’ll be met with a selection of classics and new renditions, with the option to add a drink (or two) into the mix. For us, Aperol is the obvious choice of libation (given the setting), perfect when paired with spinach and porcini rotolo or a crisp porchetta with salsa verde.
If it’s an entirely unique Christmas feast you seek, look to the refined Pacific flavours of Michael Meredith’s Metita. The SkyCity newcomer is offering an exceptional four-course sharing menu this Christmas, with all the makings of a festive meal to remember. For $195 per person, you’ll be served a glass of champagne alongside a considered selection of Meredith’s experimental Samoan fare. Guests can expect the likes of king salmon in betel leaf with pickled mango, oysters with hibiscus vinegar, duck breast with spiced and sour fala, and snapper with kafir lime and tarua, rounded off with the exceptional Pasifik Koko dessert that has quickly earned cult status.
For an entirely satisfying Christmas lunch, Huami delivers on all fronts and is the perfect spot to take the family for a festive feast. Offering a selection of its elevated Chinese cuisine, this Christmas you can indulge in fruit wood-roasted peking duck, kong bao chicken, crispy tabasco prawns and more, washed down with a Huami gin, a whiskey from the restaurant’s impressive selection, or a crisp glass of champagne. End the day on a high note with a delectable dessert, and head off on your merry way well-satiated.
Bivacco has well and truly turned up the Sunday feast this Christmas, offering some of the most festive fare in the city. On December 24th, head down to the sun-soaked deck and indulge in all manner of yuletide treats, from maple glazed ham with pineapple mostarda to Big Glory Bay salmon, pigs in blankets, and more. There will also be an abundance of fresh seafood on offer, and a dessert station loaded with all of your Christmas favourites, plus a host of festive libations to keep you well-watered. Spaces are $95 per adult for the feast (with drinks charged separately) and $35 per child, with under-fives eating for free.
If you find yourself on Waiheke Island this festive season (or simply want an excuse to leave the heart of the City), both of Mudbrick’s popular dining rooms are open on Christmas Day, serving variations on classic Christmas lunch and dinner from midday onwards. In The Mudbrick Restaurant, enjoy a spectacular, seven-course degustation while enjoying the vineyard’s sweeping views and stunning wines. While in The Archive Bistro, you can partake in a slightly more casual affair involving a set menu of Chef’s-choice nibbles followed by an entrée, main and dessert of your choosing.
Whether you’re a fervent foodie, a cocktail connoisseur or simply a lover of festive cheer, beloved Remuera eatery Síso is the place to be this silly season. Make a booking for Christmas Eve and delight in its enchanting ‘Tis The Season Christmas offering, in partnership with Malfy Gin, which sees a series of impeccable festive libations served alongside a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired take on the classic Christmas menu. Opt for either two or three courses, available for $79 and $99 respectively (including a cocktail on arrival) and usher in Christmas in style.
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