With an increasing desire for delicious alcohol-free drinks in bars and restaurants, more and more venues are upping the ante on their drinks lists, and Ahi is one such establishment — introducing an incredible selection of probiotic wild sodas, naturally fermented with ingredients from the Ahi Garden.
Bar Manager Egor Petrov is behind the new drinks, carefully selecting herbs, fruit, and flowers from the Ahi Garden, and pairing these incredible ingredients with raw honey and water to brew gut-loving, healthy tonics. “Good and bad bacteria is all around us, and it’s their misbalance that makes us sick.” says Petrov, before continuing “I wanted to create drinks at Ahi that counter this, reimagining the traditional restaurant and bar offering with the addition of healthy tonics that are rich in good bacteria and support the gut microbiome.”
left to right: Apple Mint and Flowering Basil
My job as a ‘fermentologist’ is to create an environment where good bacteria thrive and bad bacteria don’t — and that’s what I’ve done with our wild sodas.” Going further than the standard kombuchas you’ll find on many drinks menus when dining out, these sodas are unique in that typical ferments are made with a ready culture (like a scoby), but Petrov relies solely on the probiotic bacteria that live on the plants in Ahi’s garden. “I believe that this is a healthier way to ferment probiotic drinks, because a kombucha scoby or a kefir grain will produce alcohol as a byproduct of fermentation, but the method I’m using relies on natural bacteria that lowers the PH of the fermented beverage instead.” Petrov tells me.
The first of their kind in New Zealand, seasonal ingredients available in the garden will dictate the ever-changing flavours of the wild sodas. For now, you’ll find the likes of crisp Apple & Mint, a beautifully balanced flowering basil iteration, and a unique field blend of apple marigold, lemon balm and amaranth.
There’s a new reformer studio in town, and the location couldn’t be better. Sitting pretty within Commercial Bay’s bustling hospitality and retail precinct in Auckland’s CBD, Reform is a boutique reformer pilates studio offering group classes and personal training in a light, airy space right in amongst the action.
Reform has made a name for itself up and down the country as one of New Zealand’s leading reformer pilates providers, focusing on dynamic, controlled and functional exercises to achieve long, lean muscles and tone. Each workout covers the full body (as opposed to focusing on one muscle group per exercise), resulting in an intense session that is easy on the joints, but amazing for results.
So, if you work close by, head to the Commercial Bay studio for a pre or post-work burn (or a sneaky lunchtime session) — and be sure to make the most of the opening special and secure a 10-class pack for $180 (to be used within a month). Or, if you’re new to reformer, grab a one-off pass to give it a go (be warned, it’s incredibly additive!), and if you’re a pro, book a private session with an instructor to advance your practice — at Reform Commercial Bay, they’ve got it all.
I think we can all agree that we’ve been enjoying a seriously spectacular summer this year, and it’s gone a long way to lifting the general mood. Whether you’ve been enjoying al fresco dinners, days by the pool or lounging in the garden, summer afternoons at home have been a dream, and there are still a few weeks of seasonal bliss left to soak it all in.
That said, those of us who have noticed, over the last few months, that perhaps our outdoor spaces aren’t as equipped for the warm season as they should be, take note. Several of Auckland’s most sought-after design destinations have sales on some of their spectacular outdoor furniture pieces, from plush sofas to statement-making tables to dining chairs and more. Whatever you need for your outdoor space, this is your chance to pick up a designer piece at an appealing discount. Don’t miss out!
Shop The Sale
Studio Italia
Kettal giro folding dining chair set from Studio Italia
Opened by the seasoned duo of Alastair Walker and Heather Garland, whose combined expertise in mixology and hospitality spans over three decades, and whose other venues include Caretaker and Deadshot (two of the most popular bars in Auckland), Rocketman is more than just an interesting place to grab a drink — it’s an immersive journey into a world where nostalgia meets innovation.
“When the space upstairs from Caretaker became available, we knew we had to take it,” Garland tells me, “but we wanted to create something that felt very different to Caretaker.” Drawing inspiration from their fondest memories of convivial bar nights, where spontaneous revelry and dancing would collide to create something magical, Garland and Walker envisioned a space where patrons could unwind, let loose and partake in a bit of mischief, all while savouring a range of expertly crafted libations. At Rocketman, the boundaries between reality and whimsy blur, where retro-futurist aesthetics meld seamlessly with playful touches; the back bar is made of a replica aeroplane fuselage and sumptuous velvet-clad walls create an ambience that is both enchanting and inviting. “It’s a bit of a mad place,” Garland laughs, “but we wanted people to get caught up in the madness and forget their worries.”
Of course, given the experience of Garland and Walker, it’s hardly surprising that at Rocketman, a well-crafted drinks list is the hero. From seasonal cocktails showcasing the finest spirits and ingredients sourced locally (including citrus from the owners’ own citrus farm) to a carefully curated wine list featuring local gems handpicked by esteemed sommelier Camilo Deichler, there’s something to satisfy every palate. And for those who prefer hops to grapes, Rocketman’s Manager (and resident beer aficionado), Lennox is always at the ready to guide guests through an impressive array of local brews.
But Rocketman isn’t just about the drinks — it’s about the entire experience. Chef Chino Salazar’s concise but hearty menu of bar classics with a modern twist provides the perfect accompaniment to the libations, ensuring that every craving is met with culinary finesse and flair. And hidden behind a discreet cupboard door lies Kitty’s Karaoke Parlour, a secret enclave where patrons can unleash their inner rockstar amidst a backdrop of pink ruffles and neon lights.
More than a typical bar, Rocketman is a destination. Whether you’re seeking a night of revelry with friends or a unique venue for a special event, its eclectic interiors, tasty cocktails and friendly service promise an experience that is as unlike anything else in this city. If you haven’t tried it yet, consider this your sign to.
Since opening its doors in 2021, Sìso has been turning out consistently exceptional Mediterranean fare in the heart of Remuera. Serving utterly delicious food and exceptional drinks in an inviting, homely space, the neighbourhood eatery quickly solidified itself as a go-to for Remuera locals (and those coming from further afield) looking for an elevated spot to wine and dine. Three years down the track, the now-institution is still delivering on all fronts — adding to their offering once again with the return of the infamous locals lunch.
Left: Crispy calamari. Right: Church Road Wines
Aged risotto
Running 12-3pm Wednesday through Friday, the entirely delicious Locals Lunch features an entrée and main, plus a glass of Church Road wine, for a modest $45. From their famous crispy calamari with nduja mayo, lemon, and chilli oil, and sourdough flatbread topped with parsnip hummus, toasted cashew tarator, and parsley for starters, to the delectable aged risotto with charred sweetcorn, fresh stracciatella and brown butter, and chicken Milanese topped with anchovy lemon butter and served with sautéed greens, here, there’s something for every taste and proclivity.
So, regardless of whether or not you reside in the leafy suburb, make for Sìso, where you’ll always have a seat at the table.
Positioned in the heart of Ponsonby, Auckland’s most popular dining and retail district, The Greenhouse is a new beacon of contemporary architecture and luxury that is utterly unlike anything this suburb has seen before. Developed by Ockham Residential, this ambitious landmark building is set to redefine the concept of urban living, seamlessly integrating modern design with a deep reverence for the natural environment and offering the kind of lifestyle one might expect to find in some of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities.
For starters, The Greenhouse is undeniably captivating to look at, its façade finished in 150,000 green-glazed bricks, meticulously sourced from Italy. Inspired by the diverse hues of Auckland’s landscapes, these bricks create a mesmerising interplay of colour, reflecting the beauty of their surrounding environment and drawing onlookers in for their tonal depth. It is an attention to detail that sets the tone for what to expect inside The Greenhouse, a place where meticulous craftsmanship and visionary design offer spaces to find rest, relaxation and reflection; spaces where the noise of the outside world feels a million miles away.
Inside The Greenhouse, one is immediately enveloped in refined elegance and understated luxury. “All the materials we’ve chosen are inspired by nature — the birds, the bush and the ocean,” Lead Architect Tania Wong says. “We wanted to bring that feeling inside the building too.” From the outside in, the Greenhouse is a response to the particular conditions of Auckland and its environment, which not only makes it visually arresting, but makes it feel deeply connected to the city in which it stands (and in turn, offering that same sense of connection to its residents, too).
The Greenhouse’s Lobby
The entry lobby sets this tone in fine fashion, boasting dark slate tiles, smoky mirrored glass and a breathtaking ‘Melt’ pendant by Tom Dixon as the striking centrepiece. Artworks by New Zealand artists grace the walls and lift carriages, while the common spaces on the upper levels are finished with walnut veneer entry doors, custom-designed carpet, chevron-patterned ceramic wall tiles and mirror and brass details.
“As soon as you step into the lobby,” Wong says, “your feet land on dark slate floor tiles cut and laid in a chevron pattern. The colour is reminiscent of Karekare sand and the chevron pattern mirrors the feather pattern I’ve used on the glazing of the ground floor… and the glass house at the top of the building. Ahead of you, the lift doors are finished in brass, perfectly complementing the green bricks.”
One common space in The Greenhouse that is particularly notable is the exquisite residents’ lounge. Designed with rich wood panelling, bespoke artwork and a magnificent 10-seater dining table (designed by Tim Webber and crafted from the rafters of the original building that stood on The Greenhouse’s site), this room was made as the ultimate entertainer’s hub, destined to be the site of many a convivial dinner party or celebratory get-together.
The residents’ lounge
This detail-oriented design philosophy continues in The Greenhouse’s carefully conceived apartments. From their warm oak floors and brass accents, to their large windows (designed to optimise natural light), high ceilings and private balconies, every aspect of the residences exude sophistication and style. Even the kitchens and bathrooms showcase how nothing has been left to chance, the former offering floor-to-ceiling walnut cabinetry, integrated Fisher & Paykel appliances and benchtops in either black slate or engineered stone; the latter, rendered in either dark slate or light-coloured floor and wall tiles, basalt basins, aged brass tapware and Fired Earth green shower tiles.
Again, Wong’s deft hand and detailed eye is evident throughout all of the apartments, creating spaces that seamlessly blend form and function in order to provide residents with homes that feel, at once luxurious and liveable.
Despite facing unprecedented challenges, including a global pandemic and material shortages, the construction of The Greenhouse has persevered, which is a true testament to the unwavering commitment of the development team. And thank goodness, because the result is an architectural masterpiece that symbolises resilience and determination — two qualities that also speak to the spirit of the community in which it stands.
Apartment Interior
In fact, The Greenhouse’s position in the heart of vibrant Ponsonby is one of its most appealing qualities. Residents can enjoy world-class dining establishments, boutique shops and lush parks right on their doorsteps while immersing themselves in a suburb that has become widely sought-after for its inclusive cultural landscape, dynamic vibe and natural beauty.
In essence, The Greenhouse is more than just a building; it’s a celebration of architecture, creativity, perseverance and our deep connection to the natural world. And as it joins the Ponsonby skyline, it reminds us of the transformative power of visionary design and the enduring spirit of community.
The Greenhouse has a variety of corner two bedrooms (northwest-facing), one bedroom plus study (northwest-facing), and studios (east-facing and west-facing) for sale now. Open homes start this weekend, Saturday and Sunday from 2 until 3pm at 20 Williamson Avenue, Grey Lynn.
This week, we are collectively craving Ebisu’s deliciously fresh, entirely satisfying bento boxes — a curated selection of the eatery’s most-loved Japanese fare. Here, at the Britomart stalwart (and long-time favourite of Team Denizen) the bento boxes sit as a delectable smorgasbord of the contemporary Japanese flavours Ebisu has been known for turning out across the past decade.
Each box, available for a modest $39 per person (or $49 with the addition of a glass of wine or tap beer), features a tasty mix of free-range karaage chicken, tuna sashimi salad, homemade pickles, miso soup, and steamed rice, served with your choice of either free-range teriyaki chicken, chargrilled Angus scotch fillet with wafu sauce, daily market fish with yuzu ponzu & white miso puree, or crispy, fried teriyaki tofu. Better still, there’s an option to upgrade your rice to either a salmon avocado roll or the teriyaki chicken iteration, for $7, or swap out your karaage chicken to crisp soft-shell crab for $10.
Be it a quick lunchtime bite or a delicious dinner paired with a bottle or two of satiating sake for the table, we suggest making for Ebisu this weekend and indulging in one of the delightful bento boxes yourself. And if this style of eating isn’t for you, you’ll find a menu packed with fresh sushi and sashimi, mouthwatering meats, inventive vegetarian dishes and flavourful umami bites — sure to satisfy any and every taste and proclivity.
Those with an affinity for the finest furnishings will know that there are few destinations more discerning than ECC. They’ll likely also understand that finding ECC’s coveted stock on sale is a rarity, as such pieces are typically in very high demand. However, every so often, there’s an opportunity to shop ECC’s offering at a fraction of the price — and we always recommend making the most of it.
On now, ECC’s summer sale is vast and all-encompassing, and in order to assist you to navigate the selection, we’ve compiled a list of the pieces we are lusting over right now. From essential living room furnishings from the likes of Minotti, to stand-out kitchen accessories from Serax, tableware from Ottolenghi, and even outdoor furniture from Royda, we’re certain you’ll find something you adore. That said, we recommend getting in quick — these pieces won’t last long.
When approaching a house build or renovation, the most difficult part can be knowing where to start in order to get the outcome you want. And with a vast array of designers, architects, builders and more at your fingertips, it can be even harder knowing who to approach to get the process going. This is exactly why ArchiPro’s Home Design Evening has become such a significant and sought-after event for both homeowners and professionals within the design and building industries. Since its inception in 2016, this exclusive event has, year after year, drawn over 1,000 homeowners and industry professionals, cementing its status as New Zealand’s premier home design gathering, and one you certainly don’t want to miss out on.
At its core, The Home Design Evening embodies ArchiPro’s mission to inspire people to create better spaces in their homes. As such, the event serves as a nexus where homeowners seeking to embark on building or renovating projects can connect with top-tier industry professionals, including architects, interior designers, builders and landscapers in order to create meaningful connections and facilitate collaborations that have the potential to transform visions into reality.
What sets The Home Design Evening apart from others of its kind is its curated atmosphere of inspiration, discovery and networking. Set against a delightful backdrop of music, drinks and delectable canapes, attendees are immersed in an environment conducive to creativity and innovation. More than a typical networking event, it’s an immersive experience — a chance for homeowners to engage directly with New Zealand’s leading professionals and brands in a more laid-back setting.
Moreover, The Home Design Evening provides a unique platform for product suppliers to showcase their offerings to a captive audience. Attendees gain access to the latest products, innovations and high-quality materials that architects love to use, which promises ample inspiration for those with projects in the works.
Of course, an event of this quality and scale is exclusive, and while it is not necessarily open to the public, interested homeowners can register here, which will allow ArchiPro to undergo a validation process to ensure that all of those in attendance harbour genuine planning or building intentions. With spaces limited, securing a spot at The Home Design Evening is a coveted opportunity for those serious about their design aspirations, and is an evening that promises to take any project to the next level.
Encapsulating the essence of collaboration, innovation and excellence in the realm of architecture and design, ArchiPro’s next Home Design Evening is taking place on Friday the 8th of March at Shed 10 on Queens Wharf, and is shaping up to be a night in which the design community comes alive, where ideas are exchanged and where visions of exceptional living spaces are nurtured and realised. It is the perfect first step for any home project journey, and will leave attendees feeling inspired, motivated and ready to turn their dream homes into realities. Don’t miss out.
Every year, Milan Fashion Week draws the who’s who of fashion for some of the most significant shows of the season. From Gucci (where Sabato de Sarno continues to unveil his vision for the storied brand) to Jil Sander’s characteristically chic collection, to Prada’s proliferation of hats, here, we round up some of our favourite looks from the best shows of Milan Fashion Week’s Fall 2024 season.
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