Design industry insiders will know the trials and tribulations of working within a heritage-listed home. In these addresses, creativity is limited, with every decision required to adhere to a certain code. And while many designers will see this as a nuisance, for those with the right vision, restrictions can offer an abundance of opportunity; a brief where creative problem solving is required. Luckily then, it was Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi and his revered London design studio and property development company Banda, who were tasked with giving this historic townhouse on the cusp of Notting Hill a much-needed facelift. Choosing to see the numerous restrictions as a welcome challenge and creating, as a result, a home that offers contemporary living with old world charm, Mapelli Mozzi proved why his impeccable design prowess has become so widely sought after.
Designed during London’s lockdown for a family who wanted a home in which they could comfortably spend extended periods of time (if necessary) the renovation brief called for comfort as much as it did luxury and finesse. It is for this reason that the bedrooms became retreats, home offices became integrated and a dedicated space for entertainment was added as an essential amenity. But at the core of this reimagining was a desire for calm tactility and spaces that offered some much-needed privacy, where a family could happily coexist in a space that felt as sophisticated as it did practical.
Notting Hill Townhouse has all the makings of a Victorian classic, and still retains the unassuming stucco exterior that would lead you to believe the house had remained otherwise untouched. Located in Leinster Square, the circa-1850 Grade II-listed facade has been meticulously restored to its former glory, and at first glance, a similar treatment has been applied to the interiors. Even the original cornices were fastidiously restored (something that Mapelli Mozzi says he was particularly proud of). In fact, the beauty of this home is in the way that the refurbishment blends so seamlessly with the historic bones, so that it’s only after a double-take that the extent of its re-design becomes so wonderfully obvious.
Consider the kitchen, for instance, where grand slabs of marble form the cantilevered central island and shelving behind it, and intricate floorboards give the allure of a Parisian apartment. These details feel like they belong, but are ultra-modern in their presence — best exemplified by the gilded cabinetry that adds an of-the-moment appeal to the space, and speaks to the eclectic design language that has been used throughout the townhouse.
This idea is perhaps most clearly seen in the home’s colour palette, which is bold and unexpected without being out-of-place or grating. Walls finished in swathes of burnt crimson or steely blue meet those covered in delightfully whimsical wallpaper (in the nursery) or even amaretto-toned suede (in the home cinema). While in the dining space and micro-library (complete with a study-nook), vertical wooden dowelling and LED strip lights add a decidedly modern look, so that any necessary tech doesn’t appear out of place. Perhaps the reason this eclecticism works so well is due to the palette of creamy neutrals (light timber floorboards, white marble and warm walnut) that provides the home a chic foundation.
Synapse aged brass pendant by Apparatus Studio from ECC.
The master suite offers a taste of the London blues, where a dynamic layer of royal colouring is decidedly soothing, offering a sanctuary to which one could quite happily retreat. Bespoke furniture forms the main pieces in this room, with an upholstered wave headboard and bed base sitting cohesively alongside various antique furnishings (like an Italian nightstand) that speak more directly to the home’s 19th Century origins.
In the nursery, the design becomes more playful, with a fun Safari wallpaper to inspire dreams of adventure in young minds. Here, a glass atrium offers views out to the leafy London suburb, while a dedicated reading nook and cosy den provide the perfect place for the kids to spend alone time, lost in their imaginations.
Throughout the home, a cohesiveness between the old and the new has been achieved via a courageous approach to furnishings. Lighting, for example, sees a combination of wall sconces, chandeliers and table lamps that run the gamut of time-periods and styles (some uber-modern, some wonderfully ornate) — all of which make statements in their own ways. Similarly, the furniture used not only offers tactile, warm accents, but stands as an ode to the designers’ commitment to putting exceptional materials at the heart of this home — from curved, bouclé armchairs to shearling and velvet upholstery to rattan-backed chairs.
And lest we forget perhaps the most delightful addition for days spent indoors; the primary bathroom, complete with an undulating marble-slab-clad bathtub and brandished brass fixtures — a nod to the home’s history. It is here that the idea of an urban retreat is exemplified (large bathrooms being a particular luxury in London), where an opulent material has been exquisitely tempered with historic details to feel less ‘glamour’ and more ‘grandeur.’
In designing a home that is as beautiful as it is highly practical for the realities of family life, Mapelli Mozzi and his team at Banda have triumphed. Designed for living, the Notting Hill Townhouse is a stellar example of the kind of exceptional modern spaces that can be created within a historic shell, and is certainly somewhere we wouldn’t mind whiling away our days.
You might know Albert Cho from his Instagram accounts (@eatlitfood & @albertcho), through which he has established himself as an outspoken personality in Auckland’s hospitality and food scene. Or, you might know him from his recently released memoir,I Love My Stupid Life. But what you may not know is that Cho has, after years of consuming, discussing and tracking down food in all its forms, transitioned his passion into a bona fide career in hospitality (and he has certainly put in the hard yards to get there). Now, he works as the Operations Manager for David Lee’s Namu Group (the team behind such venues as The Candy Shop, Aigo, Poni and more) and is about the open the doors to his very first venue, Tobi, this Friday (the 17th of November) — a place that he has spent months meticulously bringing to life.
Left: Steak Frites
“When I first came into Namu, I had to start from square one,” Cho tells me, “I took day shifts at The Candy Shop, night shifts at Aigo, didn’t take days off,” he continues. “I was then trusted to run the opening of the new Aigo spot in Newmarket, and after that, David decided to pull me into his new project, a restaurant on Ponsonby Road in the site that once held Gymkhana and Bolliwood… he asked me if I wanted to be an owner and gave me the opportunity to invest,” Cho tells me. “Since then, I’ve been deeply involved in every aspect of Tobi, and I am so excited to be opening it soon.”
Tobi (a name that is an homage to one of Cho’s closest friends) is a deviation for David Lee and his group, whose stable has long been defined by exceptional, Asian-fusion establishments. But for Cho, the new restaurant offered a unique opportunity to branch out. “Despite the fact that Namu is a group run by Koreans, we (especially David and I) love European cuisine,” Cho says, “and while there was a question mark over whether opening such a restaurant would be ‘off-brand’ for us, to me, loving that type of food is a valid enough reason.”
Left: Prawn Cocktail. Right: Tobi Executive Head Chef, Yutak Son
So, Tobi was born. Here, the food is a mix of refined European classics with nostalgic, Kiwi elements, each dish presented with a unique and sophisticated twist. “That scene in Ratatouille where the food critic eats Remy’s Ratatouille and is transported back to one of the fondest memories of his childhood,” Cho says, “that’s what I believe good food does and I wanted this menu to do that too.” In his pursuit of excellence, Cho recruited Yutak Son as Tobi’s Executive Head Chef, who brought experience from the kitchens of Sidart, Orphans Kitchen, Black Estate, Daily Bread and Waiheke’s Te Motu. “What Yutak delivered that I couldn’t,” Cho tells me, describing the process of writing the menu, “was his ability to look at the food through a wider lens to ensure balance.” He continues, “He realised the importance of every dish having to work together harmoniously, and the result is pretty special.”
Left to right: Steak Frites, Prawn Cocktail & Venison Carpaccio
On the menu, expect a series of showstoppers like indulgent French Sturia Caviar on potato dauphine, delicate venison carpaccio, a fresh take on the prawn cocktail, a deboned and fried half-chicken with crispy skin over mouthwatering meat served with gravy and warm dinner rolls, and a simple but impactful mackerel fettuccini that balances rich flavour with fresh lemon and herbs. The Steak Frites are also destined to become a fast crowd-pleaser, where a juicy steak is served French bistro-style with salsa verde and a pile of shoestring fries. There is also a series of vegetarian dishes, like cappelletti with mushroom brodo, mushrooms and gochugaru, a slaw-style carrot salad and a delicious side of mac and cheese. For dessert, Tobi’s line-up includes what Cho has called the ‘7 Eleven Slurpee’ (a mix of strawberries and chocolate topped with shaved ice, moulded and flavoured) and sticky toffee pudding.
Left: Venison Carpaccio
There’s some serious grunt behind Tobi’s bar too. Bar Manager Ash Bartlett (ex-Clipper) alongside experienced bartender Tomos Hudgell (ex-Deadshot) have crafted some exceptional libations to pair perfectly with the restaurant’s decadent fare. All the classics will be available upon request, while on the actual menu, diners will find fun takes on tradition. A watermelon margarita is guaranteed to become a favourite as the weather gets warmer, and Cho tells me they’ve also been playing around with a clarified peach and milk concoction that will allegedly be called ‘Peaches & Cream.’ Peroni and Prosecco will be on tap, as well as a range of local beers from Sawmill and Garage Project, while the extensive wine list spans New Zealand favourites and delicious European drops and has been carefully curated by Lee, with Tobi’s Manager Jade Beguely.
Upstairs at Tobi
All of this is to be enjoyed in Tobi’s light, airy space, where high ceilings and generous windows are combined with what Cho describes as a ‘Nordic’ design inspiration. Here, white tiled walls and dark timber flooring collide with bold pops of Yves Klein blue, Tom Dixon wall lights, feature pendant lights handpainted by artist Seung Yul Oh and a tufted rug by Hanna Shim hanging on one of the walls. There is seating available inside, outside and upstairs, allowing around 120 diners to be accommodated and ultimately, it is a relaxed but elevated vibe, a place where Cho tells me he hopes that people will come to have fun. “Whether you’re going out to eat before a big night or as the last stop before wrapping up a busy day, dining at Tobi is meant to be an event and we want you to have a good time!” He continues, “I’m really not interested in Tobi becoming the ‘cool new spot’ in town,” Cho pauses, “I want it to be reliable and trustworthy, delivering delicious food and exceptional service every time.”
Right: 7 Eleven Slurpee
Hanging out the front of Tobi, a neon sign reads: ‘Good food, Cocktails & Wine, Fun People’ — a message that really sums up this restaurant in just about the best way. For someone like Cho, who has spent much of the last few years immersed in the food scene, figuring out what makes a good restaurant, and crucially, what makes a truly showstopping dish, Tobi is the culmination of his culinary knowledge to date. Marrying Cho’s flair for flavour with Namu’s hospitality know-how and slick operators, Tobi is shaping up as a future classic and is definitely a must-visit for the season ahead. Open from Friday.
Opening Hours: Monday and Tuesday, 5pm until 10pm Wednesday to Saturday, 11:30am until 11pm Sunday, 11:30am until 10pm
Walk-ins only for groups under six. For groups over six, email here to book.
Margot Robbie needs no introduction. The actress is celebrated worldwide for her impressive resume and typically Australian, down-to-earth attitude, and lately, it seems that anything and everything she touches turns to gold. Her new gin brand Papa Salt is no exception, and six months after its instant sell-out launch in Australia, we can now taste for ourselves what all the fuss is about. Spoiler: it’s not just Robbie’s involvement that’s selling bottles.
Papa Salt Launch at Azabu Mission Bay
The concept for the brand was the result of five friends (Robbie, Josey McNamara, Tom Ackerley, Regan Riskas and Charlie Mass) with a mutual passion for gin coming together to craft something that complements any soda, tastes great with tonic, and makes the perfect martini. Good things take time, though, and the team went through 59 iterations across five years to perfect what is now Papa Salt — a coastal-inspired libation that perfectly captures the essence of slow and salty days.
Inspired by Robbie’s native Australia, Papa Salt is an easy-drinking gin that celebrates the subtle taste of native Australian botanicals. Flavours are brightened with zesty wax flower, hibiscus and citrus peel — all wrapped up with hints of nutty wattleseed, the mild spice of pink peppercorn and an unmistakable minerality from a hint of oyster shell. Sublime.
To celebrate the launch, Robbie and the team spent an eventful 48 hours in Auckland with Savor, sipping their way through many of our most beloved eateries where bespoke Papa Salt cocktails have been added to menus just in time for the summer season.
The founders revelled in the delights of Azabu Mission Bay‘s flavoursome fare at the gin’s official launch event before embracing Bivacco‘s convivial vibe — gin in hand. Finally, it was to The Rooftop at Seafarers they headed, where they soaked up the sights of the Waitematā Harbour at a private tasting where the bespoke selection of Savor x Papa Salt cocktails was unveiled.
Margot Robbie launching Papa Salt Gin at Azabu Mission Bay
Following the successful launch, bespoke Papa Salt cocktails are now available exclusively at a selection of our favourite Savor venues including Bivacco, Non Solo Pizza, Bar Non Solo, MoVida, Ebisu, Amano and Ortolana. Word has it that Robbie was particularly taken by Ebisu’s Pa-Pal Butterfly, a heady concoction dreamt up by Arnav Kaushik, so make sure to indulge when next visiting.
Make haste and book your table at one of the Savor spots serving this perfectly fresh and fragrant new drop, and usher in the summer season in style — à la Margot.
Christmas hosts, take note. There’s nothing quite like a poorly dressed table to disrupt the flow of a festive family meal — and nothing like a well-dressed one to help create the perfect atmosphere. So, when considering how your Christmas celebrations will come together this year, be sure to consult our guide on the very best accoutrements guaranteed to impress even the most discerning guests.
From whimsical garden parties to tasteful, traditional feasts to Christmas dinners served al fresco, we’ve rounded up a vast and varied selection of exceptional products that will ensure Christmas table settings that are nothing less than perfect.
Setting Style
Garden Party
Make like Alice this Christmas and turn your breakfast, lunch or dinner into a whimsical affair with a table setting sure to stand out. To conjure an entirely magical place, pair less traditional hues of green and red with shocks of pink, pale blues, sunshine yellow and a hint of orange. Intricately printed tableware should take pride of place, alongside block-coloured accents to ensure modernity — here, unique shapes will be a welcome addition. Abundance is key, so go big with florals (and food, of course), layer tableware and glassware, and keep the champagne flowing from dusk till dawn.
Embrace the informality of al fresco dining this Christmas and take your festive feast outdoors. To create a relaxed but decidedly elevated environment that is sure to impress, look to bright colours, patterns, mix-and-match tableware and an abundance of sharing platters. Dinnerware here should be anything but boring — think fun motifs, text, prints and unexpected colour pairings, and when it comes to your centrepiece, colour is your best friend. Mix things up with vibrant florals in mismatched shapes and sizes paired with fresh summer fruits, brightly-hued Christmas crackers, fun flutes and a collection of candles.
For those who begin counting down to Christmas on December 26th, there’s simply no other option than to lean in wholeheartedly to traditional festive decor — and table settings are no exception. Here, it’s opulence that takes centre stage, where perfectly polished silver pairs with deep red and emerald green tableware, crystal glassware brims with champagne, trifles are layered into footed bowls, and pillar candles burn long into the evening. Traditional foliage should act as a base for your centrepiece, and as is such at this time of year, excess in every sense is encouraged — pile the table high with platters, decanters, exceptional glassware and china. The more the merrier, we say.
Exercise is an intensely personal endeavour. We all have our own goals, preferred style of movement and fitness levels, and the type of training we respond to varies greatly — but for most of us, building exercise into daily life is an essential part of any successful routine. Luckily, there are trainer and studio options available locally for just about any of the aforementioned requirements, from yoga to boxing and everything in between. These are the best gyms in Auckland that will help you become your best physical self.
Sala.
Best All-Rounder
Sala, Ponsonby Any regular attendees to Sala will know there’s an almost transcendent feeling that arises during the boutique fitness centre’s classes. With the studio’s recent renovations now complete, which includes the introduction of a 16-bed reformer pilates room, it feels like there’s nothing this space doesn’t cater too. Whether you’re a yoga devotee or a Pilates aficionado; building strength or sweating it out with cardio, you can be sure you’re in good hands with any one of Sala’s encouraging, knowledgeable teachers. One of our particular favourite classes is HIIT Pilates with Abby Simons, and Yogasana classes with Founder Sarah Lindsay herself.
Studio Box.
Best for Emptying the Tank
Studio Box, Newmarket and CBD Since it opened in 2019, Studio Box has been a firm favourite among fans of boxing’s myriad benefits, conducted in a group exercise setting. With its atmospheric surroundings (thanks to the blessedly dark mood lighting) and excellent playlists, we can think of no better place to get in the zone and pummel out our frustrations.
Cobalt Club, Eden Terrace Calling themselves a ‘group personal training facility’ Cobalt Club is a gym with a difference. We’ve heard on good authority that the community and supportive vibe here are truly second to none, and really, the results speak for themselves. Run as a series of dynamic, weights-based classes designed to sculpt, tone and lean down the body, Cobalt Club is facilitated by experts who will help their members hone their technique all while they increase your fitness exponentially. Its eight-week programmes have even developed something of a cult following for the way they change the lives of those who commit to them. If you want to make a dramatic change in the lead up to summer, this might be just the ticket.
Fitness All Together, various locations Utilising a potent combination of HIIT, group training and outdoor exercise, Fitness All Together (FAT) is guaranteed to push you to your own individual limit — in a way that still manages to be fun and friendly. Here, you will find a holistic approach to health, incorporating a good mindset and strong social connections, so at a FAT class, you’ll be cheering each other on even as you’re gasping for breath.
Playground Fitness, Newton Billing itself as “not your normal group workout experience”, Playground Fitness is all about pumping you (and your heart rate) up as soon as you step foot into the space. Classes range throughout the week from full-body cardio with ‘Sweat’ to ‘Lean & Mean’ for strength and conditioning, and you can refuel at the on-site cafe with a well-deserved coffee or smoothie afterwards.
Truhuscle, Auckland CBD On a mission to empower their members to transform not only their bodies but their minds too, Truhuscle is a new fitness movement that goes beyond classes alone. Started by a duo who began with online programmes before moving into a physical space and offering classes and one-on-one personal training, Truhuscle is here to change our approach to fitness, offering carefully curated programmes dedicated to functional training and helping their members see results. The founders have also run campaigns in schools to promote mental health and have done work raising money for Lifeline to help raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention.
Willpower, Freemans Bay Personal coach Will Garrick harnesses his dedicated passion and unbridled enthusiasm for training and pours it into his own private gym, helping people from all walks of life with their fitness goals. At Willpower, you can expect an experience, not just a workout. What makes Will’s technique unique is that he is by appointment only, developing a system of appropriate methods for each individual he works with. This holistic approach ensures that the athlete, client, or patient is empowered with individualised strategies on and off the training floor.
Kelsey Baker of Core Collective.
Best for Long & Lean
Core Collective, City Works Depot Core Collective Pilates is our go-to for a pre-work or lunchtime class, largely thanks to instructors Kate Hanline, Shani Dickins, Kelsey Baker and Alicia Robb who always make sure our moves are on point. With their helpful and knowledgeable running commentary throughout the session, these expert instructors share key tips to maximise the results from each exercise which, in turn, provides a handy distraction from that all-too-integral burn.
Barrefigure, Grey Lynn Don’t be fooled by the small size of the weights used at Barrefigure — your muscles will be shaking soon enough. Founded by Marysa Theiler (a former professional ballet dancer), Barrefigure utilises a selection of high intensity yet low impact movements, incorporating ballet and dance principles for full-body toning, improved posture, strength and flexibility.
Studio Three, Grey Lynn Viv Gallagher’s Studio Three is the perfect melding of all modalities that contribute to a long and lean physique. Take your pick between reformer and mat pilates, barre, TRX and yoga classes, with an impressive roster of instructors that promise to work you hard (in the best kind of way).
Best for Yoga
Eastwest, Ponsonby Owners Sheryn Gieck and Amelia McCombie, along with 14 other passionate teachers, make sure the studio is a welcoming space for all. Offering classes for practitioners of all levels, Eastwest is a great place to start, expand or solidify your yoga journey. The studio is located at the Grey Lynn end of Ponsonby Road and offers hot classes alongside its signature vinyasa, align and yin classes.
Basecamp, Grey Lynn This Westmoreland St East studio is for those who like a well-rounded workout. It focuses on Baptiste Power Yoga, a holistic philosophy that professes to be grounded in three main elements: asana, the physical practice of yoga postures; meditation, the practice of focusing the mind; and inquiry, the practice of self-transformation.
Basecamp.
Studio Red, City Works Depot Designed by Cheshire Architects, Studio Red’s purpose-built City Works Depot space is both a yoga studio and a sanctuary. Founded by hot yoga enthusiast Vicky Cullinane, Studio Red caters for a range of levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned experts — and even the bathrooms and dressing rooms are beautifully appointed. A trained tea sommelier, Cullinane has also created a range of bespoke organic teas which can be enjoyed onsite to further cultivate that feeling of zen.
Sweat Yoga, Newmarket If you are a fan of Bikram yoga, look no further than Sweat. Offering the challenging (but rewarding) Hatha style of Bikram as well as power Vinyasa yoga, the team at Sweat Yoga will, through their own unique teaching styles, help you achieve functional strength, cardiovascular fitness and a calm, focused mind. They also offer hot Pilates classes, for those seeking that extra level of challenge.
Best for Fitness Fanatics
CrossFit AKL, Auckland CBD Run by a group of professional Crossfit athletes and global competition winners, the team at CrossFit AKL are so passionate about their fitness that attendees can’t help but feel the infectious energy spurring them on to reach their goals. First-time CrossFitters can book in for an induction to get familiarised with the techniques and equipment, so no need to feel intimidated regardless of your level.
Xi Labs, Parnell Founded by fitness trainer Xi Cao, this chic boutique studio is located in the heart of Parnell, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. At Xi Labs, clients are treated to a world of limitless possibilities, where health and wellness are placed front and centre. The studio offers a range of training options, from the timeless art of Pilates to the cutting-edge technology of EMS, all expertly led by Xi and a team of experienced trainers, alongside the all-important recovery sessions utilising air-pressure compression technology.. With state-of-the-art equipment and a focus on technology-driven methods, clients are guaranteed to receive the most effective workout experience.
Xi Labs.
Best In-Home Trainers
Stella Mitchinson — Pilates With a personalised, mobile service, certified Pilates instructor Stella Mitchinson brings her bespoke technique, individualised advice, vibrant personality and can-do attitude to homes and workspaces, transforming the bodies and minds of Aucklanders one session at a time. She became certified through an internationally recognised contemporary school of Pilates called Polestar Pilates, and her sessions are unique and specific to what each client needs. She also offers individually tailored, sessions in her own private gym space where she will have you using the latest and greatest Pilates equipment to get you in the best shape of your life.
Rebecca Goldwater — Exercise and Nutrition Specialist With over 20 years in the PT-biz, Rebecca Goldwater is adept at helping her clients make exercise a priority. She offers sessions in her own home or yours, and at Loft45 gym — plus online consultations. Utilising a combination of techniques including nutrition, stretching and core activation; resistance, cardiovascular endurance, and mindfulness, she creates tailored workouts for clients in all stages of life, including pregnancy. With her well-rounded approach, Goldwater will ensure you have a strong body and a fit mind to boot.
Best on a Bike
Westward Cycle, Eden Terrace Embrace the elation of a sweaty cycle session at Westward Cycle. A fully-immersive experience that centres on pumping beats and an infectious mood, expect much more than just your run-of-the-mill pedal. Weighted arm movements are incorporated to build upper body strength, and dynamic choreography makes sure you’ll be connected to the energy of the group while you challenge your body.
Westward Cycle.
Best for Combat Sports
City Kickboxing, Mt Eden Founded by UFC legend Eugene Bareman and champion boxer Doug Viney, City Kickboxing is the place to go to for its well-rounded offering of mixed martial arts, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and more. Boasting nearly 420-square-metres of space, including a full-sized professional boxing ring, cage and a 116-square-metre mat area, there’s plenty of room to pursue your fighting form, whether novice or pro, in a group class or one-on-one.
Tukaha Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Auckland Central Tukaha is a full-time martial arts academy with morning, lunchtime, afternoon and evening classes dedicated to superior instruction and training for men and women. Led by third-degree black belt Pedro Fernandes, the centre’s trainers can guide you comprehensively whether your goal is fitness, self-defence or honing existing martial arts skills.
Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Pablo Martin | 10 Nov 2023
Perfectly timed to coincide with the beginning of the summer season, with its long, sun-soaked days and leisurely evenings ahead, G.H. Mumm has revealed its latest sparkling wine, giving us yet another reason to celebrate.
In an industry-first, the innovative French Champagne Maison has looked to Central Otago — a region celebrated for its outstanding pinot noir — to create Mumm Central Otago Blanc de Noirs. The release marks the first time a Champagne house has collaborated with this particular region to produce a sparkling wine, and the results are exceptional.
Building on G.H. Mumm’s 200-year history of crafting pinot noir-forward wines, Central Otago was an obvious addition to the Maison’s Terroirs Collection, which celebrates the true sense of a region and the uniqueness of its terroir. Boasting some of the most southern vineyards in the world, Central Otago’s surrounding mountain ranges and cool climate combine to create the perfect conditions for growing outstanding pinot noir, that thrives in temperate climes.
Under the stewardship of Chief Winemaker Jamie Marfell, combined with the G.H. Mumm pinot noir savoir faire, the Blanc de Noirs is produced using méthode traditionnelle, the same process used by Maison Mumm when crafting its world-renowned Champagne. As Marfell tells us, “By picking early for sparkling wine, we were able to capture the purity and essence that Central Otago pinot noir naturally produces while maintaining the juicy, natural acidity that forms the backbone of this wine.” He continues, “Rather than creating a style that was all about the fruit, we wanted to add a little bit of complementary complexity… which was an exciting brief… so in our process we used 20 percent wild fermentation, to add layers of flavour, and 20 percent oak cuvee fermentation, which adds a richness and creaminess to the blend.”
The resulting wine is one of finesse, power and elegance, with complex aromas of black cherry and red plum, complemented by toasty notes of brioche. The palate is elegantly structured with delicate fruit flavour, a fine creamy texture and refreshing natural acidity, while the finish is fresh with lingering flavours of citrus and nougat with a refreshing mineral acidity. As Marfell reveals, “Developing Mumm Terroirs’ Central Otago Blanc de Noirs took time and patience… but the hard work has paid off, and we are thrilled to be able to showcase the craft of G.H. Mumm alongside the exceptional fruit from Central Otago.”
Mumm Terroirs was created in collaboration with Champagne house G.H. Mumm and renowned producers Pernod Ricard Winemakers. The collection is the result of passionate winemakers sharing their expertise and local knowledge to produce a modern sparkling wine using time-honoured techniques to highlight the terroir and pinot noir varieties. “I’m just privileged to be associated with the marriage of two iconic brands,” Marfell tells us. “The G.H. Mumm legacy is built around producing Champagne that is pinot noir dominant, and with the release of this wine, I feel I am respecting this legacy… being 100 percent pinot noir, it also shows how Central Otago can make a world-class sparkling wine.”
Mumm Central Otago Blanc de Noirs is available here, so be sure to stock up ahead of the summer season.
Every year, Nespresso delights us with a new collection of coffee capsules, designed especially to mark the holidays. And this year, the brand’s highly-anticipated Festive Collection comprises six exclusive coffees that promise to ignite our senses and keep us perfectly satiated over the Christmas period.
The heroes of this year’s collection include six new limited-edition coffee blends for Vertuo and Original, each one offering a unique take on the flavours that are so reminiscent of this time. The Caramel & Almond, for instance, embraces Nespresso’s smooth blend of Latin America and African Arabicas to offer notes of vanilla biscuit and malty cereal, wrapped up in a warning caramel flavour, while the Seasonal Delight Spices is a soulful coffee (inspired by mulled wine) where delightfully spicy notes meet festive citrus, designed to warm with every sip. The Festive Black coffee is a woody and spicy number, where a blend of Arabicas from Honduras, Uganda and beyond create an aromatic experience of roasted wood, sweet spices and ripe, jammy fruits.
To make the most of this exceptional collection, you can’t get much better than Nespresso’s innovative Vertuo Creatista machine in stainless steel. Made for brewing barista-style coffee at home, this machine harnesses unique barcode technology to scan each Nespresso capsule and adjust the extraction settings to make the perfect Vertuo coffee every time. Whether you take your coffee short and black, long and black, cold, milky, frothy or anything in between, the Vertuo Creatista will deliver a professional-level coffee with consistency, also boasting an automatic steam wand that creates perfectly textured milk.
Nespresso Café Sangria (recipe below)
By way of demonstrating the delicious potential of Nespresso’s new festive range, particularly when executed with the brand’s Vertuo Creatista machine, we have included a showstopping recipe below for Nespresso’s Café Sangria, a refreshing tipple that is perfect for enjoying over our warm, holiday season. Enjoy!
Recipe
Nespresso Café Sangria
Ingredients:
• 1 x Seasonal Delight Spices capsule (80ml extraction) • 80 ml of Red Wine (Cabernet Sauvignon) • 80 ml of Ginger Ale • 2 x Strawberries • ½ of an Orange • 20 ml Sugar Syrup • Ice
“I always wanted to open a place that locals love and want… a place like a friend,” Josh Kim tells me. The barista/chef and I are talking about his new opening, a cool coffee spot in Mount Eden called Holiday, with Kim explaining that, after spending 15 years in the local hospitality scene he wanted to offer a laid-back, relaxed (but delicious) drop-in where locals and those coming from further afield could find perfectly-brewed coffee, tasty bites and great company.
Inside, Holiday offers a sleek and pared-back but comfortable space, festooned in tactile timber and finished in a simple, monochromatic palette. Designed by Studio WeAreYoung, Holiday’s uncomplicated but contemporary interiors feel warm and timeless, the perfect place to park up for a morning brew.
On the menu, Kim explains that he wanted to keep things simple. “From my years of experience, the best-selling and most loved menus are not the trendy ones,” he says, “but the ones that are simple and delicious.” As such, Holiday offers mostly baguettes, sandwiches and scones, food that is accessible and easy to enjoy without much fuss.
Coffee nerds will be pleased to hear that the legendary Woo Hyung Lee (of Camper Coffee) is back in the game at Holiday, where Kim tells me they will be roasting their own specialty coffee alongside serving filter coffee with beans from Norway’s Tim Wendelboe and Korea’s Fritz.
Ultimately, Kim wants to offer his customers a place where they can connect with friends, drink delicious coffee and chill out. A simple concept, done really well.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 7am — 3pm Sunday, closed
In seeking to open something that would reimagine the classic bar experience, Luke Jones andDave Lincoln of Honest Rum, in collaboration with Italian expat Dan Pinto of popular pop-up Passa Passa have created Norma Taps — a captivating new pop-up that is opening in City Works Depot tomorrow and will run for the next 12 months. There, from lunch to dinner, diners will find mouthwatering bites, satiating seasonal drinks (all served on tap), live music and more, enjoyed in Norma Taps‘ relaxed but sophisticated and very welcoming space.
The menu is an exciting culinary journey brought to life by Pinto, who wanted to offer a vibrant celebration of authentic Italian dining, infusing every dish with his expertise and passion. Highlights include the burrata with roast cherry tomatoes, the Basque salami and pickles and of course, Pinto’s signature pizzettas. Those seeking the famous pizzettas will find a version with garlic, rosemary and butter, one with nduja and taleggio, and one boasting courgette, pesto and pecorino. These crispy, flavourful bites will transport patrons to the bustling Italian streets and are made to share, encouraging lively and convivial conversations.
Right: Passa Passa Pizza Fritta’s
Another major component of Norma Taps is its beverage offering, comprising a curated range of exceptional drinks, including crafted cocktails, premium spirits, craft beers, fine wines and enticing non-alcoholic options. Meticulously designed by the team at Honest, this drinks list was brought together to reimagine the classic bar experience and create a place where sustainability and quality could go hand in hand. Here, every drink is served on tap, with Honest’s Luke Jones explaining, “our decision to operate everything from tap was to explore a pioneering concept that could potentially reshape the landscape of hospitality.” He continues, “It’s an innovative approach that carries significant implications for sustainability, notably in our commitment to eliminating single-use bottles for spirits and cocktails. It also ensures a consistent product experience through batch production of all cocktails, enhancing quality and maintaining the same great taste every time.” For anyone seeking to bring a taste of Norma Taps home with them, there is also a refillery service on offer here, where guests will find takeaway versions of the pop-up’s cocktails, Honest’s spirit range and a variety of beers and wines, too.
Inside, Norma Taps offers a laid-back atmosphere, where rich mahogany tones, cream steel walls and plush touches of green velvet and leather craft an inviting yet sophisticated ambience. Inspired by Japanese listening rooms, a backdrop of vinyl records only adds to the vibe here, where midcentury charm collides with industrial brutalism to provide the perfect setting for any kind of meal, day or night.
Left: Passa Passa Pizza Fritta
So gather your crew and head to somewhere different this weekend. Norma Taps is open from tomorrow (Thursday the 9th of November) and will be running for a whole year. Marrying delicious food with great drinks, good music and exactly the kind of vibe we want as we head into the summer season, Norma Taps is set to be a popular new spot.
Norma Taps
City Works Depot
Shed 3
90 Wellesley Street
Auckland
Face-framing and feature-enhancing, a pair of well-groomed eyebrows can go a long way. But with many tough obstacles to avoid (over-plucking especially), the road to well-groomed brows isn’t an easy one to navigate. As such, we recommend you put down the tweezers and put your brows in the hands of a professional.
We’ve scoured the beauty bars and spas of Auckland in search of the specialists that really go the extra mile — these six are the best in the business.
For those looking for a distinctly luxurious affair, we recommend booking in an appointment with a specialist at East Day Spa, STAT. Not only has its staff garnered wide acclaim for their ability to create flawlessly defined brows, but their soft, gentle approach makes every visit here feel like a tranquil spa escape — even if it does involve getting hairs ruthlessly plucked from your face. NB: The henna brows here are a real crowd favourite.
Not merely masters of the lash, (although they are fantastic in this domain of beauty) those at Lash Noir are also adept at crafting the ultimate brow arch. The beauty maestros here are at your disposal no matter what the request, be that shaping, tattooing, tinting or simple touch-ups, and the variety of eyebrow products available ensure that you can extend the treatment long after you’ve left the City Works Depot premises.
With their deft handiwork and exquisite range of products, the beauty therapists at Endota (formally Forme spa) do an exceptional job every time. And while the brow gurus here offer shaping and tinting, their skills actually extend much further, and so, to truly take full advantage of their talents, we suggest you indulge in one of their packages (like the Waking Woman: Brazilian, Brow Shape & Lash Tint).
Get expert brow treatment at any of Spring Spa’s luxurious locations. Here, thanks to highly-trained practitioners, you can rest assured that your brows will come out exactly as you like them, whether via waxing, tinting or Spring Spa’s full-service Brow Henna Package, which includes a brow shampoo consultation, measure and preparation, threading/shaping, brow henna application, and then a brow henna moisturising oil.
The mantra at every Off & On location has long been ‘believable brows’ which means that their practitioners always start by assessing their clients’ faces, in order to understand what kind of shape is needed to enhance individual features. Offering a range of brow treatments including shaping, tinting and lamination, Off & On is a reliable, easy place where you can trust the brow experts to get it right every single time.
Far more than just a locals spot, Society, located in Grey Lynn, lures in brow-conscious aesthetes from all corners of Auckland. The professionals here are incredibly accomplished at all aspects of the process, but we have it on good authority that they’re particularly skilled at tinting.
Therapist Annie Bargiacchi’s beautiful home salon space in Avondale is always a welcoming place to go and have a treatment, and we’ve got it on good authority that Bargiacchi is extremely adept at brow lamination. If you’ve been wanting to try this treatment out, she’s the one to see. Read more about it here.
It’s housed in a small spot in Ellerslie, but this beauty haven has a presence that belies its size. Run by two effervescent young sisters, Courteney and Candy, what really makes treatments at The Beauty Chambers is the fun and friendly ambience — a visit here feels more like dropping in on an old friend than it does ticking off a life-admin task. If you’re in need of some direction, the girls are especially proficient at feather-touch brows.
Founder of Richmond Road’s new beauty spot Honeyroom, Gigi Kingi, is a beauty industry veteran who has garnered quite a reputation for her ability to tackle a brow. Here, you can find all the classic brow treatments, from waxing to shaping, tinting and laminating, alongside expert brow tattooing (if you’re seeking something a little more permanent).
Throughout history, wine has featured steadily within art — used as a visual signifier of class, taste and the divine. But it’s not only this that connects artistry and viticulture. Both hinge on meticulously honed craftsmanship, and akin to an artist’s creative process, winemaking integrates elements of creative expression, instinct, vision and materiality. Recognising the similarities uniting these seemingly distinct worlds, distinguished New Zealand vineyard Church Road, led by Chief Winemaker, Chris Scott set out to bring the two together and in doing so, enrich the cultural landscape of its location in Hawke’s Bay. The result is the Church Road Art Initiative, a multi-year collaboration with MTG (Hawke’s Bay’s award-winning museum, theatre and gallery) which sees the storied winemaker acknowledge, empower, and bolster the careers of burgeoning local artists.
Winemaker Chris Scott and MTG Curator Toni MacKinnon
Each year, the worthy recipient selected will have work acquired by MTG and added to the permanent, on-display collection (raising their profile exponentially) and be given a platform at Semi Permanent Aotearoa, New Zealand’s reverential creativity and design festival, joining a panel on the main stage to discuss their work. This year, Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist Reece King was selected after the judges saw promise in the uninhibited imaginativeness and restless energy present in his body of work. King, who is exclusively dedicated to the medium of paint, brings an openness to his craft that allows viewers to experience it on a deeply personal level thanks to the preservation of a unique sense of unfulfilled potential. And just as Church Road’s vintages inspire enthusiasts to explore their depths and draw connections between nuances, so too does the budding artist’s work.
Artist Reece King
“The Church Road Art Initiative, a multi-year collaboration with MTG sees the storied winemaker acknowledge, empower, and bolster the careers of burgeoning local artists…”
It’s not only bolstering the region’s cultural landscape that is driving the winemakers’ forward momentum. King’s appointment coincides with the 2023 Church Road Prestige Collection release which, we have on good authority, is an exceptional expression of Church Road’s expertise. As Chris Scott explains, “These wines are the culmination of vintage, environment and the collective skill and knowledge of 126 years of winemaking.” The 2023 collection, now deemed ready for our eager enjoyment, features two exceptional wines from the prestigious TOM range born from the finest vintages. Church Road TOM Syrah 2021 is brooding and graceful and boasts an incredible depth, while the TOM Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2020 is complex and multifaceted — perfect for long-term cellaring. Building on this release, the unique terroir of Church Road’s finest vineyards is showcased in the Church Road 1 Single Vineyard range, including the Single Vineyard Gimblett Gravels Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 and the Single Vineyard Chardonnay 2022. Both are definitively triumphant in their own right.
TOM Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2020 and TOM Syrah 2021
Church Road has remained a symbol of outstanding winemaking in New Zealand for more than 125 years — its pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication to excellence showing no signs of waning. The introduction of these exceptional new vintages and the inception of the Church Road Art Initiative only reaffirms its commitment to its craft and region alike. This underscores why, just like its wines, Church Road is set to stand the test of time.
Promising to take us on an exquisite culinary odyssey through the sun-drenched glamour of the Mediterranean, Esther restaurant (in Viaduct Harbour’s QT Auckland) is set to host the second instalment of its ongoing dining series, Food of the Sun, this time with a lunch that will speak to the glamorous surrounds of St. Tropez. Here, Executive Chef Sean Connolly has curated a gastronomic soiree evoking the essence of St. Tropez and encapsulating the beautiful grandeur of the French Riviera, where azure waters meet sun-kissed beaches and A-listers come to revel in indulgence.
Taking place this Saturday, the 11th of November, Esther’s St. Tropez lunch is set to be an afternoon of effortless elegance, with a carefully crafted food and beverage offering that sings with the flavours of the sea and some vibrant Mediterranean flair.
Left: Food of the Sun — Saint Tropez menu, featuring the Grilled Prawns and Salad Niçoise
On the menu, an array of culinary delights awaits, each dish a tribute to the sun-soaked paradise. To start, diners will be treated to dishes like Pissaladiere, a delightful blend of anchovy, olive and oregano, Grilled Prawns infused with Pernod butter and Salad Niçoise, featuring seared yellowfin tuna, black olive, and the freshest seasonal vegetables — a vibrant ode to the region’s produce.
For main courses, guests can choose from the Crayfish Bouillabaisse, a delightful medley of mussels, clams and scampi served with rouille and baguette, the Eastherbrook Farms Duck à l’Orange and the Ratatouille, a flavoursome dish of Provencal braised vegetables.
A Tarte Tropezienne — brioche filled with crème patissiere — will end the delicious lunch on a distinctly high note, culminating this culinary journey with a taste of one of St. Tropez’s most iconic desserts.
Accompanying these exquisite dishes are meticulously curated cocktails and fine wines. From the Elderflower Highball to the Classy Lady to the Seaside Spritz, and a selection of French wine and Champagne, the drinks have been designed as the perfect accompaniment to the lavish fare.
Esther’s upcoming Food of the Sun lunch is more than a culinary experience; it’s a sensory voyage through the opulent landscapes of St. Tropez, inviting connoisseurs of fine dining to indulge in a taste of the French Riviera’s sparkling summer sun and the true art of living well.
Tickets to Esther’s Food of the Sun St. Tropez lunch are $85 per person and can be secured by booking here.
Florals for spring might not be groundbreaking, but this season, the botanical inspiration is bright, bold and better than ever before. From sculptural iterations of the classic motif (seen mostly on shoes and bags) to bright, unapologetic colours that ensure you never end up as a wallflower, the florals this season are making a statement, and we have lined up our favourite feisty floral pieces to buy now.
Courtesy of a remarkable renovation that pays homage to its classical roots, the Monsieur G home by Decus showcases the power of restoration, tailored design, and the seamless integration of old and new.
The lounge features Utrecht armchairs by Gerrit Thomas Rietveld & a Tabouret Méribel stool by Charlotte Perriand, both for Cassina from Matisse
Stripped back to its traditional core, this residence in Sydney’s Bellevue Hill has undergone a series of incremental renovations over the last 80 years, each time shedding ill-fitting additions and embracing a warm, rich palette that marries open, contemporary design with historic character. With an eye on the present and the future, the design team at Decus skilfully tailored the home to reflect the personalities of its custodians, incorporating separate eastern and western wings to provide a sense of separation while cultivating an air of community and togetherness in the living spaces. The result? A home with a rich history that now feels relevant and ready to evolve alongside its young family.
“By balancing the integration of old and new, Decus has achieved a timeless elegance that ensures longevity for this magnificent home; the sleek and expansive spiral staircase is a perfect example of this. ”
The dining room features the Coco dining chairs by OEO Studio for Gubi from Cult Design
The cellar (right) features the Horse Hair sconce by Apparatus Studio from ECC, the Smalto table by Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby & the Mr chair by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, both for Knoll from Studio Italia & the walls are painted with Resene Olive Green
Throughout the residence, pale oak floors create a soft, muted tone, allowing newly introduced elements to play into the overarching aesthetic of understated but luxurious elegance. The kitchen is commanding thanks to the unique, monochromatic speckled marble that anchors the space and custom timber joinery that gives it warmth and nods to its historic roots.
Around the rest of the home details like curved natural stone, burnished brass fixtures and pops of colour (in particular, a subtle palette of green tones) bring depth and animation to each room, which, while adhering to the overarching aesthetic flow of the home, feel personalised and expressive. Each is decorated with its own, idiosyncratic touches — a piece of sculptural art here, or an eye-catching wallpaper there. The living room, for instance, is a serene space of muted tones which is given a more interesting, design-led bent thanks to the pair of iconic Cassina Utrecht chairs, which frame a large, custom artwork that the clients wanted to integrate into the space.
“Around the rest of the home details like curved natural stone, burnished brass fixtures and pops of colour (in particular, a subtle palette of green tones) bring depth and animation to each room…”
The Monsieur G house masterfully redefines the rules of classical contemporary design, presenting a refreshing perspective through a muted, tonal lens. By balancing the integration of old and new, Decus has achieved a timeless elegance that ensures longevity for this magnificent home; the sleek and expansive spiral staircase is a perfect example of this. From the restoration of its traditional roots to the tailored design approach, and thoughtful blending of past and present, Monsieur G stands as a true example of considered architectural excellence.
Adding to the vibrant culinary landscape of Auckland is a delectable new restaurant serving the unusual but undeniably tasty fusion of Korean and Spanish flavours. Bonita, the brainchild of enterprising hospitality duo, Shanay and Isaac Yu, (known for establishments like SlowLane Cafe and The Breakfast Club), is the newest dining destination to have on your radar,
Nestled in Ellerslie, Bonita carries an air of chic sophistication. From the moment guests emerge into the dining room, they’re enveloped in a sumptuous tapestry of Spanish and Korean influences, from the rich, rust-toned curtains, to the plush banquettes and booths that hint at the culinary richness to come.
The menu, an ingenious marriage of Spanish and Korean elements, by Executive Chef Jason Wang, weaves a tantalising tapestry of flavours, artfully blending the savoury, bold tones of Korean cuisine with the breezy, made-to-share charm of Spanish tapas. Dishes come in varied sizes, encouraging a shared dining experience that delivers something truly unique to the palate. Think crispy Mandoo dumplings, succulent Wagyu carne cruda delicately perched on rice tostadas, and pappardelle infused with the rich essence of doenjang.
The bar is just as innovative, boasting an ever-flowing selection of cocktails and sangrias, including a remarkable white sangria with aloe, green apple, elderflower and soju on tap. The Makgeolli Margarita, adorned with a Korean dehydrated pepper rim, is another highlight, promises an exquisite, playful twist on the classic tipple.
Inside, the ambiance of Bonita is as inviting as its menu, with warm, cosy interiors accented by red velvet booths and Spanish-inspired tiles. The vision was to create a space that beckons guests to linger, indulge and revel in the sensory journey that intertwines Korean and Spanish elements in a harmonious and interesting melange.
Ultimately, Bonita offers an experience that will leave diners not only satiated but enchanted — a culinary expedition that promises to ignite the senses and leave an indelible mark on discerning diners of all tastes. With an eye toward expansion, the team plans to introduce lunch service soon, broadening the horizons for those eager to relish this distinctive gastronomic adventure.
Bonita is more than just a restaurant; it’s a tantalising fusion of cultures, flavours, and experiences — an homage to the marriage of Korean and Spanish gastronomy that promises a truly enchanting and unmissable dining experience.
Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Manja Wachsmuth | 3 Nov 2023
Adding to the cultural melting pot that is Auckland’s dining scene comes Tala, a new offering from Chef Henry Onesemo that showcases traditional Samoan flavours in an immersive setting, paying homage to the Chef’s native South Pacific.
Husband and wife duo Henry and Debby Onememo tested the waters for Tala’s concept at a pop-up within modern Filipino favourite, Bar Magda, before committing to a space of their own. As it happens, the desire for elevated Samoan fare is very much there, and Henry, who has worked in the kitchens at some of the city’s most well-respected dining destinations, has something unique to bring to the table.
Left: Cured Salmon & Palusami Croquet. Right: The Snack Plate
Tala takes over the Parnell site that was previously home to the incredibly well-respected institution, Pasture, which recently closed its doors after seven years. Anyone who is familiar with the space will know of its size parameters, and while Tala will have a few more seats than Pasture’s modest seven, it is purposefully intimate — with just 28 spots in total. Tala means story (or tale) in Samoan, and the space itself tells of the South Pacific’s rich culture. An umu, or open fire, sits at the centre and is used in lieu of an oven — imbuing the eatery with a communal feel and allowing diners to watch on as their dishes are prepared by Henry and his team. The space’s ‘cave-like’ feel was imagined by Seear-Budd Ross, the architecture and interiors company that oversaw the fit-out. Here, textured timbers, deeply-hued fabrics and dim lighting all feature, while the low ceilings and heavy concrete all draw together to make for a refined but homely destination.
Left: Chef Henry Onesemo, Cooking Umu Chicken. Right: Umu Chicken Plated
It was important to Henry and Debby to weave traditional aspects of Samoan life into the experience at Tala. Upon arrival, guests will be presented an offering (such is the way in Samoan culture) and be invited to partake in the apa fafano (a traditional hand-washing ceremony) before dining.
When it comes to the menu, Henry has called on fond memories from his childhood to inform his imaginative creations. The aim is to offer fresh insight into Samoa’s traditional dishes and hospitality, with two experiences available that both act as a journey through the flavours — both traditional and modern — typical of Samoan fare. The Chef’s Journey sees diners seated at the Chef’s Counter for a multi-course meal with a front-row seat to the action, and direct access to Henry and his team. The Fāgogo Journey offers a more concise menu, with guests seated in the intimate main space for a more private and casual experience.
Right: Coconut Bread
Diners can expect a host of elevated takes on traditional Samoan favourites such as spatchcock chicken (cooked in the umu) wrapped in banana leaves with herb and citrus, and Sapasui (Samoan chop suey) with lamb and pork belly. Elsewhere, a deeply nostalgic raw ramen makes an appearance, served with taro and banana chips — a dish that Henry says conjures a key ‘food memory’ from his childhood. In fact, these food memories inform a lot of the menu at Tala, where the aim is the offer an entirely unique take. And that it does indeed.
A curated drinks menu boats the perfect pairing for each dish, just ask the staff for their input. There’s also a carefully crafted mocktail menu, as well as a considered list of local wines and beers available.
With plans to extend the space — with the addition of a bar deck this summer, and the promise of an ever-evolving, entirely experimental menu, Tala is the place to be this summer and beyond.
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday — 5.30pm until late
‘Tis the season for glitz and glam. With summer soirées, Christmas gatherings, weddings aplenty and all manner of festive happenings to look forward to (and plan looks for), we suggest embracing the conviviality of the season and branching out from your usual makeup routine. Consult our roundup below to discover the most bold and beautiful beauty looks to see you through the summer season in style.
A matte finish encourages us to pull back from our glazed doughnut approach, and pick up the setting powder again. This will give you glow that doesn’t go away.
When it comes to applying blush this season, go big or go home. To achieve this look, steer clear of the centre of the face, and go for a more sculpted look with plenty of bold colour. A liberal use of creamy blush will give you that post-Euro summer feel, even when you haven’t been anywhere at all.
Rather than the clean, sharp lines delivered by sharpened pencils, lips now should instead have a ‘just been kissed’ appeal, where products like REFY’s cult-favourite beauty buff are applied, for a natural and carefree look.
In the same manner by which Euphoria-inspired make-up held us captive, Barbiecore is becoming the new norm. Think bright colours and various iterations of pink, delivering the perfect summer vibe.
As the holiday season fast approaches and Christmas creeps ever closer, now is the time to lock in those all-important venues for end-of-year celebrations. In seeking a place that can cater to every kind of occasion, we find ourselves turning to SkyCity and its dazzling array of dining experiences and event-hosting facilities, promising to take any and all festivities to another level.
At the heart of SkyCity’s allure is the selection of premium dining options. Whether it’s for sumptuous Christmas Day dining or a lavish New Year’s Eve party, there’s a culinary delight for every proclivity. From tantalising Japanese at MASU by Nic Watt, to the refined Pacific flavours of Metita, to contemporary Chinese cuisine at Huami, every restaurant promises an exquisite journey for the taste buds and a spectacular setting for a festive affair.
Here, we round up what is on offer at SkyCity this festive season, and why it really is the ultimate end-of-year destination, no matter what kind of event you’re planning.
Private Dining and Events
Metita’s Private Dining Room
If it’s an intimate dinner you are seeking, look no further than the selection of refined private dining rooms across SkyCity’s impressive venues. From Metita’s beautifully appointed space, in which you can enjoy Chef Michael Meredith’s exquisite, Pacific cuisine, to Cassia’s chic, contemporary hideaway, to MASU by Nic Watt’s renowned private space, in which you can partake in the restaurant’s award-winning Japanese fare, to Huami and The Sugar Club; the former offering a sprawling private room that can either seat 24 or be divided to accommodate two parties of 12, the latter, providing an elegant and elevated space in the Sky Tower that boasts breathtaking views over Auckland.
Beyond private dining, if you want to look into exclusive venue hire, SkyCity has plenty of options for that too. SkyCity’s iconic Sky Tower (one of our country’s most recognisable landmarks, with breathtaking views 220 metres high) is also available for private events. Whether you’re planning a morning corporate reception, drinks and nibbles or a private party 186 metres above Auckland. Of course, if you are interested in hiring out any of SkyCity’s exceptional restaurants exclusively, simply reach out to the team here with your requirements.
See SkyCity’s private dining options here, and its venue hire options here.
Christmas Day
The Sugar Club
Take the hassle out of Christmas Day by booking in at one of SkyCity’s restaurants (instead of hosting at home), where you can find a delicious feed for the whole family. Christmas Dinner can be booked at Metita, MASU, The Sugar Club, Huami, Fortuna Buffet Restaurant and Orbit 360 Dining, each venue offering its own unique take on the classic, celebratory meal. Or, if you’d rather book in for lunch, the latter three venues are also offering a daytime service, where revellers can relish in a raft of tasty food to mark Christmas Day in style.
SkyCity is the perfect place to book for your convivial New Year’s Eve celebrations, and not only because of its proximity to the best midnight fireworks in Auckland. In the lead-up to midnight, park up at one of this precinct’s premium venues for drinks, dinner or both, with SkyCity’s sprawling offering guaranteed to make this a night to remember. Partake in the mouthwatering Pacific, modern Indian or Japanese menus at Metita, Cassia and MASU, or pull up a chair at Auckland’s highest bar, SkyBar for a flute of Champagne or an expertly-made cocktail while enjoying panoramic views of Auckland City. Similarly, The Sugar Club is offering the chance to enjoy dinner and drinks in its exceptional, elevated dining space, where diners can ring in the New Year in the sky. While at Huami, the restaurant’s premium nectar menu (showcasing traditional Chinese cuisine with a modern twist) will be available for both lunch and dinner on New Year’s Eve. For a more all-encompassing feel, head to Fortuna Buffet restaurant, where both lunch and dinner will involve live carvery, freshly baked bread, Asian specialities and a fantastic range of fresh salads and vegetarian dishes, plus unlimited coffee and tea.
Book your New Year’s Eve extravaganza at SkyCity here.
The outdoor area features the Frame sofa & armchair by Francesco Rota for Paola Lenti from ECC, Porcini side tables & coffee tables by Dedon from Dawson & co. & the Spider outdoor rug by Cassina from Matisse
Tasked with transforming a penthouse on Sydney Harbour for a family who had moved from the suburbs, Luigi Rosselli Architects created a vibrant urban oasis that capitalises on its unparalleled views.
In pursuit of a more convenient and exciting city lifestyle, a family residing in a tranquil suburb made the bold decision to relocate to a breathtaking penthouse apartment on Sydney Harbour. Working closely with Luigi Rosselli Architects and the talented designers at Alwill Interiors, their new residence, Upper Deck, has undergone a remarkable transformation, blending urban sophistication with the serenity of nature.
The kitchen features two Capitol Complex chairs by Pierre Jeanneret for Cassina from Matisse
Originally constructed in the late 1980s, the penthouse has been thoughtfully redesigned by architects Ian Halliday and David Katon, who skilfully navigated strict council regulations to open up the floorplan and welcome the best aspects of the striking locale into the home’s interiors. The result is a spacious and airy abode that boasts generous proportions and panoramic views of the picturesque Sydney Harbour.
One of the standout features of this remarkable penthouse is its lush rooftop garden, designed in reaction to the sudden lack of access to land the owners would be faced with otherwise (having moved from a house with its own tennis court and pool). The result has turned the apartment’s terrace into a verdant tableau, but the journey to realising this vision wasn’t without its challenges. Local council planning policies posed hurdles during the approval process, neighbours raised objections, and bureaucratic red tape threatened to stifle the project altogether. Through patient negotiations alongside landscaper Michael Bates, Luigi Rosselli Architects managed to secure a reluctant council approval (albeit with a scaled-back design). Despite the obstacles, the rooftop garden serves as a symbol of nature’s resilience in urban environments.
The lounge features the Erei sofa by Elisa Ossino for De Padova & two Hug armchairs by Rossella Pugliatti for Giorgetti from ECC
For the residents of Upper Deck, this hard-fought garden not only enhances the appeal of their urban home, but it also nurtures a sense of wellbeing, and offers the opportunity to stop, take stock and reconnect with nature.
Extending this idea, the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces in this residence is seamless. Minimally-framed, openable windows provide unobstructed views of the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour, and invite residents (and guests for that matter) to explore the terrace and its serene pond. Here, the team at Alwill Interiors have meticulously crafted the finishes and furniture to complement the outdoor spaces, creating a harmonious dialogue between the interior and exterior zones.
The study features the Ploum sofa by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec from Ligne Roset
The kitchen, originally relegated to the periphery, has now become the heart of the living area and rooftop terrace. Its design is a marriage of solid timber elements and the graceful beauty of Carrara marble, creating a sculptural masterpiece that is a delight for the senses. Adjacent to the kitchen, an impressive new wine cellar showcases an exquisite collection of world-class wines, paying homage to the kind of refined lifestyle that the Upper Deck residents enjoy. Furthermore, a tranquil study with timber shelves supported by travertine columns, and anchored by an eye-catching Ligne Roset Ploum sofa, provides a sanctuary for peaceful contemplation.
The Net outdoor dining armchairs around the Landscape extendable table, both by Kettal from Studio Italia
Throughout the home, a neutral but warm and tactile palette has been used where impactful marble meets sleek travertine, with timber detailing infusing the luxurious, contemporary spaces with depth. In the main areas, a light, airy ambiance is cultivated by lighter tones, while in the more private spaces (and particularly bathrooms), deeper hues are harnessed to offer a more intimate vibe. Reflective of the family’s interesting art collection, sculptural and unique furniture pieces have been placed as key focal points, from the pair of Giorgetti Hug armchairs in the living room to the beautifully linear Capitol Complex chairs that are gathered around the curves of the kitchen island.
The transformation of this penthouse into an urban oasis exemplifies the power of visionary design and the integration of natural elements with urban motifs. With its awe-inspiring views, rooftop garden, and the harmonious fusion of indoor and outdoor spaces, Upper Deck epitomises a sanctuary where the residents can bask in the beauty of their surroundings, entertain with stimulating company or indulge in moments of quiet solitude.
Louis Vuitton has been announced as the official Title Partner for the upcoming 37th America’s Cup in Barcelona marking the rekindling of a legendary partnership that seamlessly intertwines the worlds of maritime excellence and sartorial elegance. A collaboration of shared values, both Louis Vuitton and the America’s Cup are known for the ways in which they pursue the highest quality and facilitate unrivalled performance, all with an air of timeless sophistication that is utterly unmatched.
Emirates Team New Zealand and Oracle Team USA at the 35th staging of the America’s Cup, 2017
Here, Louis Vuitton’s heritage of 169 years finds kinship with the storied 174-year legacy of the America’s Cup, echoing a synchronicity born from parallel journeys that will merge on the Mediterranean waters of Barcelona in August 2024. The Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup will see the convergence of daring athleticism, artistic finesse and an unwavering commitment to innovation. Set against the backdrop of Barcelona’s picturesque Port Vell this spectacular event will match the thrill of an elite sporting competition with the gravitas and prestige of history, and the whole world will be watching on in awe.
For the event, Louis Vuitton has created bespoke Trophy Trunks, meticulously handcrafted at its atelier in Asnières and designed to symbolise the reverence for the event’s heritage while embracing a modern ethos. These trunks will cradle the iconic Auld Mug (the revered trophy of the America’s Cup and considered the oldest international sporting trophy in the world) alongside the Louis Vuitton Cup, a testament to the challenger’s spirit.
The Auld Mug alongside Louis Vuitton’s bespoke Trophy Trunk designed for the iconic mug
Pietro Beccari, President and CEO of Louis Vuitton, encapsulates the sentiment, remarking on the grandeur and synergy between the event’s audacious spirit and the ethos of Louis Vuitton. “It is with an immense sense of pride that we return to this historical competition as Title Partner,” he says. “Port Vell will be the setting for a display of elegance and power, where teams will compete with boldness, talent and mastery on increasingly innovative yachts. These values equally reflect the spirit of Louis Vuitton and its artisans.”
As the curtain rises on next year’s event, the Louis Vuitton-sponsored 37th America’s Cup will see the esteemed French Maison, renowned for its legacy of innovation and refinement, embark on another voyage steeped in tradition as it continues to make its mark in annals of sailing history.
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