The wellness revolution has undoubtedly changed the way we live day-to-day. From how we eat to how we exercise to how we manage stress, we’re more equipped than ever to navigate the ebbs and flows of life — and the health challenges that come with modern-day stressors. But there’s a burgeoning trend that takes self-optimisation to new heights, going beyond treating ailments to instead focus on prevention in a bid to stop a host of health issues cropping up. Colloquially dubbed ‘Preventative Health’ — this new approach to holistic wellbeing may just be the key to living longer, and better, lives.
While it may be true that the rise of wellness over the past decade has provided us with endless opportunities to improve our overall wellbeing, we’re now grappling with a new host of health challenges thanks to the fast-paced, overloaded, and increasingly isolated lives we now lead. Throw in the additional pressure that the infinite number of new, ‘must-try’ wellness practices has added to our already bursting-at-the-seams daily to-do lists, and, far from ‘well’, we find ourselves more strung out than ever. And while the average lifespan has increased in the past two decades, our collective mental health has declined at a rapid pace, greatly impacting our quality of life day-to-day.
Once your health (physical, mental, or both) is in decline, it’s incredibly hard to get back on top, so it’s little wonder that there’s been a collective push-back to shift the focus, both in the medical and holistic spaces, from a solutions-focused outlook to a more preventative approach. By eschewing jam-packed routines and endless products promising the world and lacking in results, for simple yet effective strategies scientifically-proven to bolster our health (think: movement, nutrition, sleep, and stress reduction), we can positively impact the frequency and severity of illness, increasing our chances of a vital, healthy future.
TRUST YOUR GUT
It’s amazing what an impact being more mindful and considered with your diet can make to your overall health, and it’s no secret that good nutrition equals good health. But, in recent times, it’s also become widely known that gut health equals good health. Eating fermented foods such as kimchi, yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and sauerkraut, or taking a high quality probiotic, will decrease inflammation in the body and support the proper functioning of the immune system, not to mention positively impact mental health. Win, win, and win.
It’s hardly surprising that staying physically active does wonders for your health, but exercise also has the power to add years to your life. In fact, it’s been said that as few as 15 minutes of exercise per day could add up to three additional years to your life, and the more the better. If you’re looking to set goals, 150 minutes of exercise per week is recommended, but the more you do, the better you’ll feel (within reason), so get moving.
Looking at the world’s Blue Zones — where populations live markedly longer lives than anywhere else in the world, one of the key factors associated with longevity is community. Studies have linked healthy social networks to positive changes in heart, brain, hormonal, and immune function, decreasing the risk of chronic diseases. So, get social, and reap the rewards, both physically and mentally.
TAKE A BEAT
Given the fast-paced, overloaded lives we live, stress is at an all-time high — leading to a host of health issues from chronic fatigue to inflammation, poor gut health, and a slew of mental health challenges. Mastering the art of stress management through mindful practices (breathwork, meditation, or slow-paced, meditative exercise) impacts health on an unprecedented scale, and is perhaps the most beneficial daily practice for preventative health. Carve out time to find your Zen, however that looks for you.
Good sleep improves your brain performance, mood, and overall health, and not getting a sufficient amount of z’s regularly raises the risk of a host of diseases and disorders. When we’re asleep, our bodies rest and recover, while our brains remain active, laying down memory, restoring daytime mental functioning, and carrying out processes that lead to physical growth. So, it’s hardly surprising that getting the recommended seven to eight hours a night is fundamental to preventing poor health long-term.
Consuming a wide variety of plant foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains may decrease disease risk and promote longevity. Many studies link a plant-rich diet to a lower risk of premature death, as well as a reduced risk of cancer, heart disease, depression, and brain deterioration, attributed to plant foods’ nutrients and antioxidants. So, as mum always said (she does know best), eat your greens.
“At Olle, you can wander through a menu that’s both familiar and adventurous, with a focus on simple, fresh ingredients that invite you to take a culinary journey without leaving your comfort zone,” is how Kevin Choi describes his new co-venture, a beautifully conceived fusion eatery in the heart of Milford.
Here, the focus falls on inventive yet approachable modern-Asian/Kiwi fare served in a space that feels at once luxurious and laid-back, contemporary and cosy. “We’re passionate about creating a space that feels like a home away from home.” says Choi, “Olle is not just about food and drink — it’s about community, bringing people together, and introducing them to something new in a welcoming and approachable way.”
Left: SCALLOP & CRAB RAVIOLI with sweetcorn beurre blanc
The restaurant’s fit-out was left in the capable hands of February Design — a studio with a reputation for creating beautiful, functional, and innovative spaces. “Their ability to create unique, memorable environments that also prioritise the customer experience really stood out to us.” says Choi, adding that February didn’t just take charge of the design; they also took care of manufacturing the furniture, which allowed Choi and his team to have full control over the aesthetic and quality of the pieces within the eatery. “The furniture, carefully crafted in-house by their team, ties the whole space together” he tells me, “Each piece was thoughtfully designed to be both visually striking and highly functional. From the custom-made seating to the unique light fixtures, every element was chosen with the intention of creating an inviting atmosphere that would feel both sophisticated and accessible.”
As such, at Olle, the vibe is sophisticated yet relaxed — “Each visit feels like a little escape” according to Choi, and I have to agree. Olle is the perfect spot to indulge in some quality food and drinks and unwind, leaving feeling nourished — in every sense of the word.
Right: HAWKES BAY LAMB RIB
ASPARAGUS on Gribiche sauce
The menu sits at the intersection of modern Asian flavours and the best of local produce — with a twist, featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients prepared with somewhat traditional techniques. As has become synonymous with dining culture in Auckland, the majority of the dishes are designed to be shared, making it easy for groups to explore a variety of flavours.
According to Choi, highlights include Olle’s signature double glazed wagyu galbi, which is paired with wasabi, confit garlic, and pickled kale, as well as the crispy eggplant with sichuan caramel, and cashew nut cream. But there are a host of creative share plates that bring something new to the table, and we’re enthusiastically eyeing up the Hawke’s Bay lamb rib with aged balsamic and cumin, and a very tasty and decadent looking scallop & crab ravioli with sweetcorn beurre blanc. Sublime.
The drinks menu at Olle was designed to complement the food and elevate the dining experience, and as such, you’ll find a list centred on carefully curated wines, local craft beers, and creative cocktails that bring out the flavours of our dishes.
“Our signature cocktails combine local spirits with unique Asian ingredients, such as Umeshu & Limoncello Spritz, giving them a distinctive edge,” Choi tells me. There is also a thoughtful edit of non-alcoholic beverages that reflect Olle’s ethos of fresh, bold flavours. The team at Olle feel passionately about supporting local producers, and every dish and drink is carefully crafted with that in mind.
CHOUX PUFF with strawberry salsa
With over 20 years experience — working in restaurants in different countries, gaining exposure to a wide range of culinary traditions and techniques, combined with obvious passion, Choi is throwing everything into Olle — and it shows. “I’ve always felt that New Zealand’s food scene is unique, its proximity to both the Pacific and Asia gives it an incredible culinary diversity that I wanted to explore further,” he tells me, adding, “At the core of my work, I focus on creating dishes that are not only delicious but that also bring something new to the table. I’m excited to bring everything I’ve learned to Olle and share that journey with our customers.” Watch this space, we’re predicting a bright future for this new dining destination.
Opening hours: Wednesday — Friday, 12pm until 3pm & 5pm until 9pm Saturday, 11am until 9pm Sunday, 11am until 6pm
As summer is just around the corner, we’re celebrating the last few weeks of spring in style — and what better way to do exactly that than to indulge in the season’s bounty via the many eateries around town showcasing it in all of its glory. From Andiamo’s celebratory menu brimming with delectable share plates to Cassia’s vibrant take on modern Indian cuisine, there is no shortage of reasons to get out and about this weekend.
Soul Bar & Bistro’s spring menu celebrates fresh, seasonal flavours with inspired dishes ideal for sunny afternoons and breezy evenings. Highlights include a delicate prosciutto and burrata starter with a zesty pineapple twist, a vibrant spring pea risotto, and handmade spinach and mascarpone tortelli with asparagus and brown butter. Simply sublime (as always).
Beloved Remuera eatery Sìso’s new spring menu is a true celebration of Mediterranean flavours, perfect for sampling over a leisurely weekend meal. Begin with whipped garbanzo hummus and smoked eggplant purée before exploring inventive small plates like burrata with crispy eggplant and bone marrow with preserved lemon. Larger plates feature the likes of 12-hour beef cheek raviolo and market fish ‘vongole’ — each dish an unforgettable taste of freshness and finesse.
Andiamo’s spring menu is a vibrant celebration of seasonal flavours. Highlights include house-made ricotta ravioli with fresh herbs, stracciatella with crisp peas and charred sourdough, and a unique bruschetta topped with taleggio and artichoke. Standout mains feature a rich crab risotto with sugar snap peas and a tender lamb shoulder with green harissa. Ideal for sharing, this menu presents yet another reason to park up at one of Andiamo’s ever-coveted street-side tables this weekend.
Federal Street’s award-winning modern-Indian eatery, Cassia, has a number of inventive new menus on offer. Monday through Saturday, the new ‘Journey Through India’ menu offers Cassia’s signature dishes for a shared dining experience, while — to celebrate the beloved eatery now opening its doors for Friday lunches (starting from the 11th of November — just in time for the festive season), guests can savour a delectable new lunchtime menu crafted by Sid Sahrawat and his talented team. The ‘Sid’s Voyage Friday Lunchtime Menu’ showcases dishes like crayfish and prawn cone with ossetra caviar and Hawke’s Bay lamb chops, and is a true feast for the senses.
Bar Magda, Left: Bbq chicken satti. Right: Bbq octopus and squid
Bar Magda wraps up the year with its boldest menu yet, brimming with inventive, snack-centric takes on its signature new-wave Filipino fare. Designed for sharing, this new selection is perfect for groups eager to explore diverse flavours. Highlights include wild venison tartare with caramelised soy yogurt, BBQ octopus and squid with crispy potato and whipped duck fat, and a unique Magda salad of curious croppers tomatoes, strawberry, radish, and coconut green goddess. A sweet treat to finish? The decadent almond dacquoise sans rival with cacao buttercream and rhubarb compote is an essential way to finish any meal.
This spring, The Lodge Bar & Dining is serving up a delectable snacks special, serving as the perfect accompaniment to a few afternoon drinks looking out over the sparkling Waitematā. Here, you’ll find meat pie croquettes with smoked cheddar, a selection of cheeses with quince, honeycomb and crackers, marinated olives, and (of course) a hearty bowl of fries with spicy ketchup and blue cheese aioli, all for $82 — serving two to four, depending on how hungry you are.
Somm. Left: Market fish Kokoda. Right: Crab toasts
This month, adding to our list of reasons to visit, Somm has unveiled a brand new food menu, brimming with seasonal delights. From prawn, harissa, lemon, and coriander pizza to honey-coated crispy fried chicken with aioli, moreish crab toasts with yuzu kosho and chive, and a delectable market fish kokoda with chilli, lime, and coconut — this new menu celebrates the season in all of it’s glory, with something for every taste and proclivity.
Darling on Drake’s new spring menu celebrates fresh, vibrant flavours with globally inspired dishes crafted by Chef Ryan Moore. Highlights include a decadent wagyu tartare with nasturtium pesto, ricotta salata, and quinoa crisps, as well as a delicious duck breast with fermented blueberries. Kiwi classic are reimagined, with a paua and pork sausage roll with tangy apple sauce joining the fold, alongside baked snapper topped with warm tartare and salt and vinegar chips, while, a new barbecue addition to the kitchen broadens the menu and brings the easy going feel of summer straight to the table with dishes like BBQ asparagus with egg yolk and miso sauce and BBQ rumina lamb rump with mint and parsley gremolata and macadamia hummus.
Queens Rooftop’s new summer menu, crafted by Chef Maia, invites guests to savour the best of the season against the stunning Waitematā Harbour backdrop. With highlights like prawn and octopus salad with white balsamic, Freedom Farms pork skewers with miso mayo and papaya and carrot slaw, a decadent linguine aglio olio with hand-rolled saffron pasta, tiger prawns, tomato and chilli, and grilled Hawke’s Bay lamb chops, the menu balances lightness with indulgence. Pair dishes with refreshing cocktails like the watermelon and jalapeño margarita for an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Auckland.
David Beckham is an undisputed and enduring style icon. From the early days of his career to solidifying his sartorial standing alongside wife and designer Victoria Beckham, Becks’ style — while ever-changing — has never failed to garner attention. Here, we explore the life and style of one of the world’s most iconic sporting greats.
David Beckham burst onto the scene in 1992, taking to the field for Manchester United at just 17 and quickly earning a name for himself for his on-field victories. But, as it would transpire, it was his fashion wins (or, some would say, faux pas) that began landing him in the tabloids.
From frosted tips to square-toed shoes, track pants paired with blazers, Becks never shied away from experimentation when it came to his wardrobe, and once he met Victoria in 1997 (marrying her quickly after in 1998) the couple began to find their collective fashion footing. The rest, as they say, is history.
From the all-black leather Versace co-ords the pair wore to a New Year’s Eve party in 1999 to the all-white, bedazzled ensembles the couple donned at the 2003 MTV Movie Awards, to perhaps their most memorable collective look of all — their wedding attire, an ever-iconic poppy purple suit and matching floral-festooned dress (with a baby Brooklyn Beckham donning a suit in the same hue), the duo have never failed to turn heads. But much has changed since then, and it’s fair to say that Becks’ style, much like the sporting great himself, has matured marvellously.
As Beckham’s stardom grew, the footballer streamlined his aesthetic, turning to quintessentially British suiting in the early noughties and never looking back (no one can pull off a suit quite like David Beckham can). Bringing woollen cheese cutters back into cultural consciousness, making head-to-toe chocolate look incredibly appetising, and inspiring millions of Brits to sharpen up, Becks, with his rugged good looks and worldwide following, changed the way men approached their wardrobes — reshaping the face of men’s fashion in the process.
In the 2010s, as Victoria’s standing in the fashion world grew, Becks too became a regular fixture on the fashion circuit, evolving his style further still to find a place amongst the UK’s fashion set, sitting front row at his wife’s shows. At the same time, the couple were growing their family, with Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper changing the couple’s lives, and the now-father-of-four’s style, irrevocably.
Fast-forward to 2024, and now in his 50s, as a father, sporting great, and co-owner of Florida’s football team, Becks’ style is polished and refined. It comprises impeccably tailored suiting, well-cut outerwear, a neutral, tonal palette, denim, exquisite jewellery (more sleek watches than the gold crosses he was known for in the 90s), and luxury accessories — continuing to prove why he will always be an undisputed fashion icon — and one that has undeniably impacted the fashion zeitgeist across the past three decades.
With its prime position within Princes Wharf, Somm Wine Bar & Bistro not only affords its guests incredible, waterfront views but is also home to what is perhaps the city’s most impressive collection of wine. Couple this with consistently tasty food and a laid-back vibe, and you’ve got a more than perfect place to spend a relaxed few hours at any day of the week.
Top to bottom: Crispy fried chicken, Eggplant parmigiana & Crumbed market fish
This month, adding to our list of reasons to visit — and highlighting Sunday as the perfect day to stop by, Somm has launched Sunday Socials, inspiring us to unwind in style. Not only this, but the harbour-side eatery has unveiled a brand new food menu, brimming with seasonal delights — from prawn, harissa, lemon, and coriander pizza to honey-coated crispy fried chicken with aioli.
Right: the Prawn pizza
Here, every Sunday from 2 — 7pm, DJ Spence will curate a mellow afternoon soundtrack as guests are settle in for a laid-back afternoon with friends. Savour handcrafted cocktails and curated drink specials in a relaxed setting, grabbing a few bites off Somm’s freshly-updated tasty share plates menu as and when you feel peckish — seeing off the week in low-key fashion.
It’s no secret that we have a penchant for stunning coffee table books, ever-adding to our collections and wish lists with the latest escapist, educational, or elegant tome. With Christmas fast-approaching, there’s no better time than now to share the latest releases that have us captivated — perfect for gifting (or self-gifting) these holidays.
The Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) is a cornerstone of Monaco’s Principality, fostering connection among members, the yachting industry, and Monaco itself. Led by HSH Prince Albert II since 1984, the YCM enhances Monaco’s appeal, underscoring its unwavering dedication to yachting. In this explorative tome, the history of YCM’s legacy is laid out, providing a glimpse into one of the world’s most elite and enduring clubs.
A captivating journey through the exquisite homes of the ever-iconic, 20th-century Italian jewellery designer, Elsa Peretti (most known for her association with Tiffany & Co.), this volume provides a rare glimpse into Peretti’s private, art-filled world. Through Estelle Hanania’s ethereal photography, Peretti’s iconic abodes are creatively captured and laid bare, from the wild beauty of Torre Avoltore to the stately charm of her apartment in Rome.
Celebrating a century of filmmaking excellence, Columbia Pictures looks back at 100 years of cinema and explores Columbia’s diverse catalogue, from classics like His Girl Friday to modern masterpieces like Taxi Driver. Sam Wasson’s recounting, enriched by Tom Rothman’s insights and Chris Cotonou’s enlightening texts, highlights the studio’s triumphs and resilience — showcasing its profound impact on cinema and the talents behind its legacy.
Phaidon celebrates the vibrant legacy of one of the 20th century’s most influential designers in Alexander Girard: Let The Sun In. Known for his bold use of colour and pattern, Girard’s work spanned textiles, furniture, and interiors — explored in this book via a comprehensive look at his eclectic style. With stunning visuals and insightful commentary, Girard’s joyful approach to design is captured, inviting readers to embrace his cheerful and innovative aesthetic.
A whimsical journey through Bavaria with a rebellious twist, Heimat sees the renowned photographer revisit her childhood homeland, capturing a posse of girls in playful, provocative scenes amid alpine forests, emerald lakes, and snow-dusted peaks. With wit and eroticism, von Unwerth’s enchanting tour showcases Bavaria’s traditions and landscapes, offering a fresh, vibrant perspective on this beautiful region.
Delving into the illustrious history of Molteni, a symbol of Italian craftsmanship and innovation, this comprehensive tome showcases the furniture brand’s evolution, highlighting iconic designs and collaborations with renowned architects and designers. Through rich narratives and stunning visuals, Molteni’s influence on contemporary design is celebrated, offering readers an intimate look at the artistry and legacy of one of Italy’s premier furniture makers.
The delicate balance between heritage allure and modern comforts characterises this meticulously restored Victorian terrace, where each element tells a unique story, combining to create something unique to its discerning inhabitants.
Drawing inspiration, in part, from Yarraville’s industrial roots, Wren House embraces a somewhat traditional aesthetic, utilising brickwork painted white to match the Victorian heritage frontage, achieving a harmonious blend between the restored and modern sections of the house. Dark window frames provide a striking contrast, while fluted glass at the rear of the first floor ensures privacy. The design team focused on retaining the home’s original configurations and period-specific details, and while there was a lot of restoration to undertake, maintaining the home’s character was key.
“Luxurious materials and striking furniture pieces add a touch of glamour, while soft textures and subtle hues create an ambiance of tranquillity and warmth. ”
To accommodate the growing family’s needs, Mim Design replaced the cramped lean-to with a modern, two-story brick extension. This new addition features ample storage and maximises the modest site, creating a spacious, open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area on the ground floor, with two additional bedrooms and a bathroom on the upper level. The transition from timber floors to chalk in-situ concrete opens up the space dramatically, with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the interior with natural light.
The interior unfolds as a testament to the homeowners’ passion for design and Mim Design’s commitment to personalisation. Vintage Murano glass, original fireplaces, sash windows, and intricate ceiling roses pay homage to the home’s history, preserving its timeless appeal while reflecting the owners’ discerning taste.
At the heart of the home lies an open-plan living area bathed in natural light, with floor-to-ceiling windows inviting the outdoors in. Luxurious materials and striking furniture pieces add a touch of glamour, while soft textures and subtle hues create an ambiance of tranquillity and calm.
Throughout Wren House, the use of cohesive colour brings a warmth and depth to interiors, bridging the old and new spaces seamlessly. Integral to the interiors was accommodating for the owners’ extensive collection of designer furniture, artwork and ceramics. From bold prints to soft hued furniture, objets d’art to striking accents (such as a blush marble in the ensuite), each element contributes to the home’s harmonious balance of elegance and exuberance.
Mim Design’s intimate collaboration with the homeowners ultimately led to a highly personalised sanctuary that embodies their unique lifestyle and idiosyncratic aesthetic. By preserving the home’s heritage charm while integrating contemporary character, Wren House stands as a timeless testament to transitional design, poised to enrich the family’s lives for years to come.
Wren House is built on the traditional lands of the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation.
Everyone’s favourite gelato purveyor, Little ‘Lato, has opened the doors to a brand new parlour in the heart of Ponsonby — making for an irresistible addition to what is fast-becoming the strip synonymous with world-class scoops.
With a legacy that’s as lauded as the gelato itself, the timing of the opening couldn’t be better — with Little ‘Lato recently taking home five prestigious awards at the 2024 NZ Ice Cream Awards, including NZ’s Best Gelato and Dairy-Free Ice Cream, plus the Supreme Champion title for Boutique Ice Cream Producer. Now, Ponsonby locals and those visiting the vibrant neighbourhood can savour these award-winning delights by the scoop on the regular.
Inside the new Ponsonby parlour, you’ll find 36 exquisite flavours on display, half of which are vegan-friendly, making it a true haven for every palate. Founder Hannah Wood, inspired by her training at the Carpigiani Gelato University in Bologna, Italy (yes, there is such a place), crafts each small batch by hand across the bridge in Northcote, ensuring every spoonful is as velvety as it is flavourful.
From go-to classics like pistachio, espresso, and dark chocolate, to unexpected takes such as sour cream gelato infused with lemon zest and berries, and lime and grapefruit sorbet with a hint of coriander — Little ‘Lato is primed to please everyone, no matter your taste and proclivity.
Whether you’re a gelato purist or simply seeking a novel take on ice cream, Little ‘Lato promises a memorable experience. And, with summer on the horizon, there’s no better time to beat the heat with a tasty scoop.
Opening hours: Sunday — Thursday, 11am until 10pm Friday — Saturday, 11am until 11pm
With the sun shining brightly and the hum of sunny optimism that the promise of summer brings in the air, there’s never been a better time to indulge in Friday drinks with your colleagues. And when it comes to choosing the perfect spot, these are the establishments we’d never look past — from rooftop bars to quaint neighbourhood locales and everything in between, here, we round up the best of the best. Salute!
Although one of our favourite inner-city haunts for a delicious dinner, Alma is also the perfect place for an after-work drink, too. This Britomart spot offers a burgeoning wine list and reliable cocktails (including a 0% alcohol list for sober friends), and a number of spots that are the ideal possie to watch the world go by.
Otto hour is a must at Andiamo — you’d be hard-pressed to find a better way to spend a Friday afternoon. Between 4-5pm daily, revellers can enjoy an elevated selection of drinks priced at a modest $8 (Otto means eight in Italian). We encourage you to perch at one of Andiamo’s highly sought-after outdoor tables surrounding the Jervois Road post and live la dolce vita.
Those lucky enough to nab a seat at this Ponsonby Road wine bar have something to celebrate. With a menu that focuses mostly on wine, and just enough on the ever-changing aperitivo menu to accompany it, here you’ll find the ideal place to mark the end of the week (while escaping the inner city crowds).
It’s no secret that Bar Magda is a favourite amongst Team Denizen, and a more than perfect spot for after-work drinks. With an extensive, ever-changing wine list and some of the very best cocktails in town, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better spot to celebrate the week that was. We’ll see you there.
For those who work in the Inner West, Bar Martin has you covered. A perpetually popular, bustling neighbourhood bar with a larger-than-life wine menu, and a few favourite beers, this humble spot has put Mount Albert on the map.
Ponsonby’s Beau is always busy after the work day ends. Part-restaurant and part-wine bar, the courtyard makes a gorgeous place to send off the week. With an extensive wine menu and utterly delicious food to match, it’s just another of the inner-city’s great offerings when it comes to after-work drinks.
The perfect setting for summer satiation, with tasty food, seasonal drinks, and often a DJ spinning lively tunes, Bivacco is the perfect post-work locale. Here, as the sun goes down, the volume goes up.
K’ Road’s Candela brings a taste of Spain and Latin America to the vibrant strip, perfect for after-work drinks. With chef-owner Matt Ross crafting refined Latin-fusion small plates and a cosy, inviting space, Candela channels the lively spirit of a Spanish tascas, with epic cocktails, wine, and a playlist to match the night’s energy.
A crown jewel on Auckland’s waterfront is Park Hyatt’s Captain’s Bar. Offering a number of fine rums, and extensive cocktails to be enjoyed on the terrace with views to rival the City’s best, this is an under-the-radar spot for an end-of-week wind-down.
Boasting a sprawling, sun-soaked terrace (the largest in Central Auckland), rotating DJs, a stunning fit-out, and a meticulously crafted food and drink menu (no wonder too, with hospitality maestro Fraser Kirby at the helm) — with a brand new menu for the summer season, Darling on Drake is the hottest new opening in Auckland and is the perfect place to be for some post-work sundowners.
Esther Courtyard at QT Auckland is the city’s newest locale perfectly befitted to after work drinks. With Mediterranean-inspired bites, wood-fired pizzettas, and refreshing cocktails, it’s a slice of European seaside charm right on the harbour. Relax under striped umbrellas and soak in the sun with friends, savouring the vibrant flavours and laid-back atmosphere that make summer evenings unforgettable.
For those who work near Three Lamps, one of the City’s favourite after-work drinks spots is right on your doorstep. We’re talking about Hotel Ponsonby of course. When that post-work sunset hits the courtyard on a Friday afternoon, there’s nothing better than having a Coconut Margarita in one hand and a bowl of crisp fries in the other… this is work drinks done right.
When the weather heats up, there’s only one thing for it come Friday afternoon… a frozen margarita, of course. Luckily for us, at Inca, the frozen margs are a modest $10 all day, every day — and they also happen to be among some of the best in town.
In a subterranean spot beneath Commercial Bay sits Kemuri Hi-Fi, a bespoke basement lounge bringing the essence of Tokyo’s jazz kissas to the heart of the city. Here, you’ll find an intimate, vibrant hub where high-quality drinks and curated music take centre stage (with a few Japanese bites thrown in for good measure) — a perfect spot to shake off the working day. The focus is on whisky, with an unmatched selection on offer, but the cocktails are world-class, and the champagne list is one of the best in the city.
Fondly dubbed ‘Culprit’s mischievous younger brother’, this locale offers a hole-in-the-wall take on drinks. Yet the scale is what makes the venue so palpable (alongside the famed cocktails), and the location is truly the cherry on top.
Located in the iconic space which once housed conch, Nami Record Bar blends 80s nostalgia with modern flair, bringing a soulful energy to Ponsonby Road. From vibrant cocktails and organic wines to Korean-inspired bites, this laid-back yet lively spot serves up good vibes alongside a curated selection of tunes. Come sundown, DJs spin records, setting the stage for an evening of laid-back revelry beneath the disco ball.
NSP’s aperitivo hour has us regularly spending late afternoons in its famed courtyard, enjoying a delicious drink and a selection of complimentary finger foods to tease our appetites. For those a little closer to town, Bar Non Solo is an extension of NSP’s offering, a Britomart mainstay that puts a sophisticated spin on after-work drinks. Here again you’ll be able to make the most of the legendary aperitivo hour, enjoyed with live DJs in a lively inner-city spot.
If you’re looking to change up your after-work drinks and try something new, look no further than Luke Jones andDave Lincoln of Honest Rum’s collaboration with Dan Pinto of Passa Passa — Norma Taps. Here, you’ll find mouthwatering bites, satiating seasonal drinks (all served on tap), live music and more, in a relaxed but sophisticated and very welcoming space.
Commercial Bay’s magnifique French destination Origine serves consistently delicious French fare with spectacular views to match, but it’s perhaps a lesser-known fact that they also have one of the best drinks lists in town. The eatery’s master mixologists have crafted an exceptional cocktail menu that sits alongside the most impressive French wine selection in the city. Round up your colleagues, select your satiation, and soak up the stunning vista. Santé!
Open from early morning until late into the night, this intimate, cosy spot is suitable for any situation — after-work drinks included. Sitting pretty in the heart of Britomart, you’ll do well to nab one of the outside tables and take in the bustling energy of the square, drink in hand. And if you’re setting up for a night on the town, be sure to order their take on an espresso martini with licor 43, reposado tequila, spiced syrup, it’s sublime.
Whether you’re seeking a cosy, after-work drink or a convivial catch up with friends, Palmer’s inviting interior gives way to a sweeping terrace that provides the perfect al fresco spot to revel in a beautiful afternoon. And even as the sun goes down, a roaring fire takes centre-stage outdoors, offering night-long warmth for those who choose to indulge in another round.
The only thing better than a rooftop bar is a rooftop bar as the sun goes down. Here, on the edge of Viaduct Harbour, Rooftop at QT is simply the most beautiful place for after-work drinks. Open seven days a week, it’s conveniently close enough to the office to warrant dropping in, but far enough away to feel like the ideal space to wind down.
Adored by many for its live music offerings, this Viaduct Harbour mainstay is the perfect blend of sea views, beer, wine & cocktails, live entertainment and a mouthwatering locally inspired menu — everything we crave when it comes to the end of the day.
Set on the 50th floor of Auckland’s most iconic landmark, SkyBar takes after-work drinks to a whole new level. A luxurious hideaway promising an exceptional culinary offering, inventive cocktails and a multi-sensory experience.
For those seeking an afternoon escape, paradise is found at Somm this summer, with a delicious happy hour running from 4-6pm daily. Know off work a little early to sip, savour and soak in the sunshine with a number of $8 drinks to choose from, as well as $11 cocktails. A considered selection of local wines is available, spanning all of the usual varietals (they are the experts, after all), alongside ice-cold Little Creatures larger, and the infamous Somm Spritz.
Viaduct Harbour stalwart, Soul, is perfect for a convivial drink with colleagues and friends alike. After all, its waterfront location offers incomparable views which, when paired with the atmosphere of a busy venue, makes for the beginnings of a very fun night.
Perfectly positioned to celebrate the spectacular beauty of Auckland’s landscape from above, Sunset is a place to which city-dwellers can escape after a long day in the office for a relaxing beverage or two. Here, satiating drinks and tasty food collide in a sumptuous setting — all the makings of a perfect sundowner spot.
Set in an atmospheric spot within St. Kevin’s Arcade on K’Rd, Tappo is a laid-back wine bar with an exceptional menu of snacks and an even better drinks list. Here, the focus is on showcasing wines from small, biodynamic, and organic producers from around New Zealand and Italy, and the always knowledgeable staff are on hand to recommend something perfect for every taste, proclivity, and mood.
The Britomart precinct has a new lease on life with the return of people to the city post-holidays, and The Brit Pub & Eatery is a fitting place to unwind over an after-work beer (or whatever you fancy, the bar staff aren’t fussy). The cocktail jugs are perfect for sharing, and it’s a nice place to watch the day turn into night.
Housed in the most convenient of locations, this Commercial Bay outpost draws us in for after-work drinks thanks to its cosy atmosphere, satiating drinks and delicious menu by renowned Chef Matt Lambert.
Set in an atmospheric, underground spot on Queen Street, The Nightcar evokes after-dark sophistication with a film noir edge — with an impeccably crafted drinks list and late-night contemporary Chinese bites plus a number of tasty desserts. Open until 3am, this subterranean sanctuary is an ideal spot to make a night of it.
Twofold in Parnell brings a fresh twist to the classic pub experience, blending retro Americana charm with a curated drink selection, including tap beers, wines, and inventive cocktails. With an approachable menu of bright bites, hearty plates, and elevated bar snacks, this light-filled spot is perfect for gathering with friends, indulging in great flavours, and unwinding in a lively yet laid-back setting.
Tyler St Sport brings a fresh vibe to Britomart, combining elevated pub fare with the buzz of live sports. With inventive share plates, tap beers, and a cocktail list that shines, this is a spot where fans and foodies alike can gather in style. Heritage brick, open ceilings, and an inviting atmosphere make it a go-to for game day or any day.
Recently opening on a rooftop within the Commercial Bay precinct, Queens Rooftop boats 270-degree views of the Waitematā Harbour, delicious food, and one of the best drinks lists in town. Open from 11am ’til late seven days a week, here, you can grab lunch, a post-work bite and glass of wine, or a late night (or two) — taking in the incredible views from the comfort of the well-heated and always-lively rooftop terrace.
Curvilinear shapes and rounded edges evoke an ease and relaxation not afforded to straight lines. Particularly impactful for adding artistic drama to a cleverly-conceived living area, curves also add a subtle sense of softness to a room.
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