The latest venture from hospitality duo Matthew Yeo and Eddie Chae (of Stroll Coffee and Bricks), Seoul 1946 Roastery invites coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike into a space where modern Seoul meets the comfort of nostalgia.
Inspired by Seoul’s post-war creative reinvention, the Yeo and Chae’s new concept offers a fresh take on Korean café culture, “The name draws on the year 1946, when Seoul was officially recognised as the capital city’s name after Korea’s liberation,” they tell me, “This era was brimming with creative energy — a spirit we aim to capture in everything we do.”
Chef Tony’s menu reinterprets Korean comfort food through a modern lens, with dishes like Chi Bap [치밥] (crispy K-style fried chicken over rice with scrambled egg) and Seoul Chicken [닭강정] — a boneless crispy chicken and rice dish tossed in a sweet, spicy sauce, featuring alongside traditional Bibimbap. Pastry chef Ryan’s creations — like the Yakgwa cookie and Uyu affogato — add a playful, indulgent touch.
On the drinks front, there’s a strong focus on coffee, with both classic brews and unique concoctions finding a place on the menu. The ‘Troller’ — a crisp, aerated iced Americano has become and instant favourite, while, unsurprisingly, Bricks espresso features, with a delectable pour over peach iced tea for a sweet, bold fix. If you’re feeling experimental, the Dirty Troll takes an oat latte to new heights, with earl grey syrup adding subtle floral notes.
Designed by Kiwi-Korean designer JM Park, Seoul 1946 Roastery’s interiors balance contemporary minimalism with subtle nods to Seoul’s cultural roots, resulting in a warm, welcoming spot brimming with the creative spirit of Korea.
Opening hours: Monday — Thursday, 7am until 9pm Friday — Saturday, 8am until 10pm Sunday, 8am until 9pm
Soul Bar & Bistro has long-been one of our go-to summer spots, and the stalwart eatery’s new menu additions offer plenty to enjoy during long, leisurely lunches and convivial dinners as the warm weather continues. Exemplifying summer, the new dishes lean towards the light and refreshing, with a focus on the best of the season’s bounty.
We’ve already identified our favourites, which we’re sharing here to inspire your next visit.
Grilled nectarine salad with rocket, torn burrata, walnuts and balsamic
A perfect place to start, sweet grilled nectarines meet peppery rocket and creamy burrata in this vibrant salad. Topped with crunchy walnuts and a tangy balsamic drizzle, it’s a summer delight.
Market fish with pernod romesco, olive, fennel, and almond
Market-fresh fish meets a fragrant Pernod romesco in this vibrant newcomer, brightened by olives and fennel, with a crunch of almonds. As beautiful to behold as it is to devour, this flavourful new dish is set to become a go-to for discerning diners.
Corn & ricotta filled tortelli with jalapeño and yellow zucchini
Golden-hued tortelli filled with sweet corn and creamy ricotta offer a perfect balance of richness and lightness in this tasty dish. A hint of jalapeño adds gentle heat, while yellow zucchini brings freshness. Best paired with a crisp, ice-cold glass of champagne.
Russian honey cake with almond, peaches, whipped ricotta, and caramelised honey
Delicately spiced and laced with caramelised honey, this Russian honey cake is luxuriously soft yet deeply layered. Toasted almonds add crunch, ripe peaches offer a juicy brightness, and whipped ricotta adds an airy, tangy contrast to the cake’s sweetness. Sublime.
This year, we suggest you avoid the expected and forgo the red roses in favour of something a little more remarkable — and suited to the receiver’s personality. Are they partial to a more classic style, à la Femme Fleur? Or something more modern, like Flowers After Hours’ vibrant bouquets? Nevertheless, we’ve whittled it down to the eight floral visionaries that will ensure 2025’s Valentine’s Day will be a memorable one.
An Auckland institution since 1990 (and Denizen’s 2024 Everyday Heroes winner), Flowers After Hours is the go-to for luxury blooms, open early ‘til late, seven days a week. Their Radical Love Valentine’s collection blends timeless romance with contemporary flair — think classic red roses alongside statement-making arrangements. The ‘Bold Embrace‘ bouquet is a vibrant mix of pink chrysanthemums, red roses, and burgundy smokebush, wrapped in their signature bloom bag, while the ‘Forever Flame‘ is a masterclass in minimal elegance, featuring a single premium red rose with pink smokebush in a sleek glass vase. Whether you’re after a grand gesture or something quietly sophisticated, Flowers After Hours has you covered.
Crowned Runner Up in our 2024 Denizen Everyday Heroes, and continuing to prove the many reasons why, Kelly Karam has forged a pioneering path in the flower-arranging game with Blush, going far beyond the average, paper-wrapped bunch. Opt for one of Blush’s unique carrier bunches this Valentine’s — available in an easy-to-carry contraption with handles instead of the usual paper wrapping (perfect for a dinner date surprise), or go all out with their Loved Up Pamper Gift Box, complete with J’amie macarons, Love Loco chocolates, handmade soap, a Maison Balzac Le Rose candle and a simple red rose.
For those who love florals with an artistic edge, Denizen 2024 Everyday Heroes runner-up Greenpoint should be your go-to. Founded by floral artist Georgie Malyon, this Grey Lynn gem brings a contemporary, design-led approach to every arrangement — whether for home, office, weddings, or grand installations. This Valentine’s Day, expect lush, textural bouquets that feel effortlessly romantic yet refreshingly modern, alongside an edit of dried flowers, art prints, plants and curio for those seeking something outside of the ordinary.
For those who cherish nature in its purest form, Hands in the Dirt offers wild, whimsical arrangements that celebrate the beauty of seasonal, locally grown blooms. Situated on a 12-acre farm in Ahuroa Valley, this mother-daughter-run flower farm follows regenerative principles, ensuring each bouquet is as sustainable as it is stunning. This Valentine’s Day, expect delicate, hand-tied arrangements brimming with character — no mass production, just nature at its best. Find their bouquets at Tessuti during the week, or connect directly for a bespoke bunch.
After spending five magical years working at London’s Scarlet and Violet, Liv Wakem moved home to New Zealand to start Kensal Floral Studio in 2018. Located in the heart of Kingsland and, alongside beautiful bespoke arrangements in their signature wild, colourful style, Kensal stocks a range of cards, candles, glassware and more, making for somewhat of a one-stop gift shop. Kensal’s Valentine’s Day bunches are highly sought-after, so we would recommend getting in quick to secure yours in time for the big day.
Left: Kensal Flower Studio. Right: Rose Tinted Flowers
This moveable feast of the floral kind is the brainchild of Millie Austin, who you’ll find posted up on Shore Road in Remuera. Her stunning bouquets are fanciful and romantic, and will never disappoint. Alongside bouquets, Austin also offers a floral subscription service for those who simply must have fresh flowers in their home all the time — far beyond V. Day. Choose your preferred colour, consistency and duration, and beautiful blooms will be delivered to your door for as long as you desire.
Talented florist Isabel Johnston first started in the industry over a decade ago, and quickly built up a reputation for her signature, naturalistic designs. Johnston founded Isadia Floral with co-florist Lydia Reusser in November 2020, and together the duo offers retail bouquets and subscription flowers, personalised in-home and workspace styling, and flowers for weddings and events. For each occasion, including Valentine’s Day, they incorporate foraged plants and sourced flowers in unstructured yet elegant bouquets.
For big, bouncing bouquets (and equally swoon-worthy dried arrangements), look no further than The Botanist. With a focus on foliage to create eye-catching bunches with depth, The Botanist’s florists are experts when it comes to crafting unconventional and undeniably beautiful flowers to cherish — and will make any recipient feel special. Their Valentine’s Edit runs the gamut from whimsical and romantic to grand and passionate, with both fresh and dried arrangements available.
Inspired by her passion for connecting with people and with nature, Hannah Low started Grace and Flora in 2017, and then, in 2021, moved her operation to Faradays luxury department store. There, visitors will find Low’s exceptional arrangements, filling the space with an air of colourful optimism. After all, Low’s bouquets are beloved for their big, bold presence and their sculptural shapes, and are perfectly suited to sit alongside the latest collections from the likes of Loewe, Celine and more.
Another name that specialises in wedding and event blooms (but shouldn’t be passed up for an individual bouquet, either) Floracentric is a contemporary floristry studio offering arrangements that are sleek and sophisticated while also feeling decidedly modern and grounded in the now, each artistically put together in what feels like a careful and purposeful way. This Valentine’s Day, select a design from their impressive offering (if you ask us, The Bright One is a sight to behold) or ask for something entirely bespoke.
Inspired by her florist mother, Rosie Holt started Rose Tinted Flowers in 2015 and it has since grown a reputation for creating some of the dreamiest bouquets in town. Aside from creating beautiful arrangements, Rose Tinted Flowers also has a strong focus on reducing the waste that comes with the industry, opting for locally grown florals and replacing standard materials such as floral foam with natural alternatives. This Valentine’s Day, Rosie and her team are offering a number of striking arrangements, from the ‘Dreamboat Bouquet‘ — sure to set hearts fluttering with a truly stunning mix of roses, hydrangeas, carnations and anthuriums, all presented in a glass vase, to the simple yet stunning ‘Roses in a Vase‘.
There’s no better time than now to update your playlists with some recently-released tunes, from the evocative musical stylings of The Cure to a new soul-stirring album from The National. And if long walks or road trips are on the agenda, we have also lined up a selection of addictive podcasts to subscribe to for some entertaining and informative listening.
New Albums
The Epilogue Dean Lewis
Dean Lewis’ third, full-length LP, The Epilogue, marks a new chapter in his journey, blending vulnerability and vitality. Written between tours, Lewis reflects on the past while hinting at the future. Featuring his signature emotional depth, the album solidifies his unique style and artistic evolution.
Song to start with: All I Ever Wanted
Songs Of A Lost World The Cure
“The most intense, saddest, most dramatic and most emotional record [The Cure have] ever made,” according to Roger O’Donnell — and rumoured to be the iconic English post-punk rock band’s last, Songs of A Lost World is set to embrace the melancholic and lovesick themes the group has long-been known for, offering a moving meditation on love and loss.
Song to start with: A Fragile Thing
Rome The National
Recorded at the Parco Della Musica Ennio Morricone in the Eternal City, The National’s Rome is a 21-track live album spanning
20+ years of the lauded band’s discography. Reinvigorating beloved classics like “I Need My Girl” and “Bloodbuzz Ohio,” alongside new rarities, Rome beautifully captures the band’s dynamic live performances and ever-evolving sound.
Song to start with: Humiliation
Late To The World IDER
IDER’s Late To The World is a bold evolution of the duo’s sound, blending lush electronics, blistering indie rock, and cinematic storytelling. Produced by Dann Hume, the 12-track album features singles like “Unlearn” and “You Don’t Know How to Drive,” marking a journey of self-discovery and creative maturity for the alt-pop sensations.
Song to start with: Late To The World
New Podcasts
The Dilemma
In a series of funny, uncomfortable, and inspiring conversations, journalist Gina Rushton speaks to psychologists, political observers, activists, philosophers, and fertility specialists who all share the load in carrying a dilemma that can feel all too heavy at a time of uncertainty — should we become parents?
Shell Game
A podcast about things that aren’t as they seem by journalist Evan Ratliff. In Season One, Ratliff creates a voice clone connected to an AI chatbot and sets out to discover what happens when you try to control the technology that seeks to replace you, and what to expect from a future in which people may not be what they seem.
Friendship Therapy
In a follow-up to her beloved series, Best Friend Therapy, respected psychotherapist and author Emma Reed Turrell explores the nuances of friendship through a therapist’s lens, talking to real people about real-life friendships, unpacking and exploring these pivotal relationships with honesty, compassion, and practical wisdom.
Parental as Anything: Teens
This enlightening podcast gives practical advice on how to navigate raising teens, from porn to partying, body issues to bullying, and a veritable spectrum in between. Rebecca Sparrow, teen educator and author, speaks to parents and experts alike, unpacking the biggest challenges of parenting teens.
Interior Design by Hana Waxman Design Photography by Cesar Béjar
On a beachfront site on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, this holiday haven gets a bold reinvention, transformed by Hana Waxman Design into a paradisical escape as striking as its stunning surrounds.
When undertaking an extensive remodelling of a family-focussed holiday home on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Hana Waxman knew two things were non-negotiable: opening the residence out to the sand and sea beyond, and creating an expansive yet inviting space for extended family gatherings.
“the kitchen and living spaces were afforded generous new proportions — opened up to seamlessly blend not only entertainment areas, but the interior of the residence with its stunning surrounds.”
The resulting design saw a stunning transformation of the beachside home in Punta Mita — a luxury resort town on the southern side of Mexico, known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and everlasting sunsets.
Remodelling the residence into a serene retreat for a family based in Greece, the focus fell on indoor-outdoor living and direct connections to the captivating landscape just beyond the home’s walls. Given the residents’ Greek heritage, ample space for cooking and entertaining were integral to the design, with the couple explicit in their desire to create a relaxing haven for family, with food-focussed gatherings and events taking centre stage. As such, while the property’s existing structure was largely preserved, the kitchen and living spaces were afforded generous new proportions — opened up to seamlessly blend not only entertainment areas, but the interior of the residence with its stunning surrounds.
In fact, one of Casa Kyma’s defining features is its ability to blur boundaries. Designed for relaxation, the residence unfolds in a way that invites its occupants to move effortlessly from the pool to the ocean, or enjoy lounging between the comfort of the indoor living areas, terraces, and private, internal courtyard.
“Travertine stone and tropical hardwood were used extensively throughout, creating a textural contrast that reflects the natural surroundings .”
The design focuses as much on cosy corners as it does convivial spaces for entertaining, each pocket finding a glimpse of the expansive views, opening up to the beach beyond. Here, the ocean is an ever-present part of the experience of home. Ample glass creates panoramic tableaux of the Pacific throughout the house, while the open-plan design ensures that every area of the home feels connected to the coast in a way that doesn’t just allow for relaxation, but demands it.
The entrance instantly sets the tone for this link to nature, as a walkway leading to large glass doors offers a glimpse into the living room and ocean beyond. The layout enhances this experience, with an internal courtyard, complete with fire pit and ample casual seating, which nods to the Hacienda-style architecture typical of the region, where outdoor spaces are an essential element of the home.
Bedrooms are warm, tactile retreats, positioned to take advantage of the ocean views — with custom-made beds oriented to allow inhabitants to wake up to the sight of the ocean. The ensuite bathrooms are just as thoughtful in their design, with sliding glass doors that lead to outdoor bathing areas, affording residents and guests yet another touchpoint to nature.
When it comes to the home’s materiality, Punta Mita’s tropical environment set the tone, with Waxman employing hardy materials that could withstand the region’s often-harsh climate. Travertine stone and tropical hardwood were used extensively throughout, creating a textural contrast that reflects the natural surroundings — from the white sand beaches to the lush and wild jungle. Both functional and aesthetically striking, the thoughtful selection of materials speaks to people and place, honouring both beautifully, and creating the perfect foundation for artistic accents.
Furniture and décor was primarily sourced from local artisans and designers, celebrating the region’s artistic heritage and adding a rich layer of depth and meaning to the home. The elegantly proportioned dining table from Atra Studio anchors the space, sitting beneath an arresting, sculptural pendant light — both of which ground the design in its setting.
Ultimately, in Casa Kyma, Hana Waxman Design have struck a careful but confident balance between contemporary design and laid-back living. The resulting family retreat not only reflects the vision of the designer and homeowners, but honours nature in a way that makes it feel like an extension of the home. This beachside sanctuary offers a tranquil escape, where the family can gather and enjoy the simple pleasures of seaside living, while being enveloped in thoughtful design and the cultural richness of Punta Mita.
Under the creative direction of award-winning chef Neil Sapitula, Rothko at Sculptureum has reopened its doors with an exhilarating menu built ‘Fire and Ferment’ — a culinary philosophy that speaks to Sapitula’s Filipino roots, reverence for technique, and playful approach to bold flavours.
Right: Chef Neil Sapitula
Sapitula, whose stellar career spans Cocoro and Nanam in Auckland, the award-winning Solera in Tauranga, where he earned a Cuisine Good Food Awards Hat in 2023, and tenures in award-winning kitchens around Asia, has taken the reins at Rothko — bringing a fresh perspective to the lauded eatery.
Pork – shiso, rice, ssam sauce
Rothko is nestled within the striking grounds of Sculptureum, where more than 700 diverse sculptures and other artworks are displayed across the 10-acre site within quirky galleries and throughout stunning garden spaces. The ever-evolving collection, owned by Anthony and Sandra Grant, ranges from giant pink Italian snails to pieces by Picasso, Chagall, and Andy Warhol, and the Southern Hemisphere’s best display of glass art. “Sculptureum is a fun experience, and now Neil has recreated Rothko as the perfect culinary complement,” says Anthony Grant. “Instead of ‘fine dining’ we think of it more as ‘fun dining’.”
The eatery has seen a recent refurbishment, which includes a new kitchen designed around open-fire cooking and an intimate new chef’s table experience, designed to invite diners into Sapitula’s unique culinary world.
The chef’s love of open-fire cooking stems from his upbringing in the Philippines, where he has fond memories of learning to cook over a small hearth at his grandmother’s house. Fermentation is another key aspect to Filipino cuisine, and Sapitula was keen to showcase those vibrant flavours in his food at Rothko.
The restaurant’s new menu is an invitation to explore something outside of the ordinary and expand your culinary horizons. Ranging from snack-sized delights to larger share plates, the offering brings together an array of flavours and textures, featuring everything from delicately balanced raw fish with smoked coconut, doenjang, and harissa oil to rich, wood-fired wagyu scotch served with egg yolk and bone marrow. Even chicken feet, reimagined with a farce of shiitake and furikake, make an unexpected and delightful appearance.
Each ferment requires several months to prepare and age, meaning the Rothko menu will continue to evolve and expand. At lunch, diners can choose from Rothko’s signature Teishoku lunch boxes in meat, fish, or vegetarian or a selection of dishes from the wider menu, alongside snack and sharing plate options.
In the evenings, a new chef’s table — the Kitchen Gallery, brings guests even closer to the action, with the restaurant’s connection to Sculptureum’s ever-evolving art collection further enhancing its immersive appeal. Sapitula is passionate about connecting with guests and sharing his vision, “There’s a lot going on underneath in this menu. In the Kitchen Gallery, I can explain it from the chefs’ point of view, diving deeper into how we’ve created the specific flavours.”
Sculptureum co-owner Sandra Grant says Sapitula’s vision for Rothko is the ideal complement to the art experience. “It’s food as a kind of art form. He’s making something that’s original and different.”
At Rothko, the dining experience is one of playful discovery — an invitation to experience a culinary adventure as unique as Sculptrueum itself.
Quoting the Sundance Film Festival’s founder, Robert Redford, Sundance’s interim CEO Amanda Kelso said upon opening the festival’s 2025 awards ceremony, “Storytelling is important, part of human continuity.” And, while all mediums of storytelling — from literature to theatre to art — have the capacity to inspire, film has a unique ability to captivate and move its viewers, drawing us into a narrative and holding us there, suspended, until the end credits roll.
The Sundance Film Festival is the ultimate showcase of original storytellers, and offers an unprecedented platform for fresh perspectives and new voices. The 2025 iteration proved that cinematic art — despite the increasing challenges it grapples with in the face of streaming behemoths and the shifting landscape of commercial cinema, is still alive and well.
Here, we round up 10 of this year’s best films and documentaries that should be on your radar.
Come See Me in the Good Light
Come See Me in the Good Light
Ryan White’s Come See Me in the Good Light captured Sundance audiences, earning the coveted Festival Favourite Award. This deeply moving documentary follows poets Andrea Gibson and Megan Falley as they navigate love, art, and mortality in the wake of Gibson’s incurable cancer diagnosis. Blending humour and raw emotion, the film explores the power of poetry and human connection. Produced by an impressive roster, including Tig Notaro and Brandi Carlile, it’s a testament to resilience and creativity.
Atropia
Hailey Gates’ Atropia delivers a sharp, self-aware war satire that skewers Hollywood’s portrayal of the Middle East and U.S. militarism. Set in a California training ground designed to mimic Iraq, the film follows an aspiring actress (Alia Shawkat) navigating an industry complicit in war propaganda. With biting humour and a star-studded cast — including Chloë Sevigny and Tim Heidecker — Atropia cleverly deconstructs battlefield melodrama.
Seeds
Seeds
Brittany Shyne’s Seeds is a lyrical portrait of Black farmers in the South, exploring legacy, resilience, and the precarious fight to hold onto land. Shot in evocative black and white, this Sundance U.S. Documentary Prize winner moves with the rhythms of life — funerals, harvests, quiet struggles. Anchored by octogenarian farmer Carlie Williams, whose every gesture speaks to a lifetime of labor, Seeds is an achingly beautiful meditation on history, perseverance, and the quiet dignity of tending the earth.
Sabar Bonda (Cactus Pears)
Rohan Parashuram Kanawade’s Sabar Bonda (Cactus Pears) is a tender, beautifully crafted exploration of grief, love, and identity set against the rugged landscapes of rural India. Following Anand (Bhushaan Manoj) as he mourns his father and forms an unexpected bond with a local farmer, the film deftly navigates queer life beyond urban narratives. With evocative cinematography, nuanced performances, and a deeply personal touch, this Sundance standout is a poignant achievement in independent Indian filmmaking, resonating far beyond its setting.
Cutting Through Rocks
Cutting Through Rocks
Sara Khaki and Mohammadreza Eyni’s Cutting Through Rocks is a powerful, seven-years-in-the-making documentary that follows Sara Shahverdi, the first woman elected to her village’s local council in northwest Iran. Winner of Sundance’s World Cinema Grand Jury Prize, the film captures Shahverdi’s fight against gender norms — challenging forced marriages, advocating for women’s land rights, and confronting deep-seated patriarchal traditions. With striking cinematography and a compelling subject, Cutting Through Rocks is an unforgettable testament to one woman’s defiance and resilience.
André Is an Idiot
Winner of Sundance’s Audience Award and Jonathan Oppenheim Editing Award, André is an Idiot is an irreverent, deeply human documentary that transforms impending death into an exploration of joy, humour, and absurdity. Faced with a terminal diagnosis, André embraces his final chapter with wit and curiosity, turning his story into a cinematic farewell unlike any other. Hilarious, heartbreaking, and brimming with life, this unforgettable film is a celebration of embracing mortality with laughter, love, and fearless creativity.
DJ Ahmet
Georgi M. Unkovski’s DJ Ahmet is a heartwarming coming-of-age tale set in a rural Turkish-speaking village in North Macedonia. Following 15-year-old Ahmet as he navigates family struggles, first love, and his passion for music, the film pulses with energy, humour, and authenticity. Featuring a vibrant cast and a rich folk-inspired soundtrack, this Sundance World Cinema Dramatic Competition entry is both tender and uplifting — a joyous reminder that music, love, and dance can transcend even the most rigid traditions.
Peter Hujar’s Day
Peter Hujar’s Day
Ira Sachs’ Peter Hujar’s Day is a quietly mesmerising tribute to 1970s New York, unfolding entirely through a single conversation. Ben Whishaw (Black Doves), delivers a spellbinding performance as the enigmatic photographer Peter Hujar, recounting a day in his life to journalist Linda Rosenkrantz (Rebecca Hall). Based on a real 1974 interview, this restrained yet evocative film captures the beauty of the mundane, the weight of memory, and the fleeting magic of artistic existence — an unassuming Sundance gem brimming with quiet transcendence.
Prime Minister
Lindsay Utz and Michelle Walshe’s Prime Minister offers an intimate, revealing portrait of Jacinda Ardern’s five years leading New Zealand through crisis and change. Featuring never-before-seen footage and personal audio recordings, the documentary captures her commitment to compassion — whether responding to tragedy or redefining leadership on the world stage. Thoughtful and inspiring, Prime Minister is a compelling look at one of the most humanistic political figures of our time.
Two Women
Two Women
Winner of Sundance’s World Cinema Dramatic Special Jury Award for Writing, Two Women is a sharp, playful reimagining of Claude Fournier’s 1970 comedy Two Women in Gold. Directed by Chloé Robichaud and penned by Catherine Léger, the film follows Violette and Florence — two disillusioned neighbours — who rediscover themselves through unexpected affairs. Balancing bold humour with poignant explorations of motherhood, mental health, and desire, Two Women is a witty, refreshingly honest romp that delivers both laughter and insight in equal measure.
The simplest but most effective way to show that you care this Valentine’s Day is by treating your significant other to a night out at one of Auckland’s most romantic restaurants. Despite the occasion still being over a week away, we have it on good authority that tables are already filling up fast, so now is the time to book your spot — lest you miss out. From set menus that will set hearts racing, to the perfect ambience for the occasion, here’s where to celebrate on the 14th of February.
One of our favourite Japanese stalwarts is putting on a special Valentine’s Day set menu for $95 per person (with the option to add on premium sake or wine pairings). The dinner will run through a series of delicious starters and a fresh sashimi platter, before launching into dishes like wagyu gyoza, chargrilled beef fillet, and a stand-out sushi selection of kingfish nigiri, katsobushi soy, apple wasabi and chirashi hosomaki with shiso. Finally, a decadent basque cheesecake will round off what is set to be a seriously tasty affair. See details and book your table here.
Whether you are celebrating your first or 20th Valentine’s Day together, make it memorable at Onslow. For $215 per person, you’ll be treated to a stunning, five-course set menu plus a glass of Ruinart Rosé. And, for those wanting to up the ante on their Valentine’s plans (or are out to impress), the Emett’s impressive eatery is also offering exclusive Caviar Service complete with a tin of Ossetra caviar and classic accompaniments — chopped egg, chives, crème fraîche, and blinis — available to pre-order upon making your reservation. See details and book your table here.
Gochu in Commercial Bay offers the perfect setting for a vibrant Valentine’s Day meal, complete with harbourside views and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for an intimate evening. Indulge in an $85 set menu of modern Korean favourites, complemented by a refreshing glass of Vandal Pet Bat on arrival. Book a table here.
Celebrate love with an unforgettable Valentine’s experience at Ki Māha. From the 13th — 16th of February, indulge in a refined three-course menu featuring the likes of Te Matuku oysters, Ōra King salmon gravlax, and 55-day aged beef Scotch, for $115pp (or with snacks for $145pp). Finish with a delicate Eton Mess or a curated cheese selection, and elevate your evening further with the addition of fresh NZ summer truffle. Book a table here.
Park up at this Parnell institution for an evening of love like the Italians do. Non Solo Pizza will be serving up evening of wonderful Italian fare, with plenty of Valentine’s Day specials on offer to inspire indulgence. Start the evening with a light, fresh grilled octopus, spinach, kalamata olive and herb salador beef wagyu bavette with capsicum and parsley salsa, pickled baby onion, and port jus on the main menu and end on a high note with a decadent vanilla pannacotta with chocolate sauce and black forest berries perfect for sharing, washed down with a spritz or two, of course. Book your table here.
Celebrate with your significant other at this Herne Bay stalwart, where a special, three-course menu will be on offer for $110 per person. There, expect Andiamo’s signature warm service and a raft of delicious dishes that capture the kinds of Italian and Mediterranean flavours we have come to expect from this beloved spot. Think starters like beef meatballs with blistered tomato, and market fish crudo, followed by mains like crab risotto with preserved lemon and T-bone steak ‘bistecca alla fiorentina’ with garlic, rosemary, and salsa verde, and desserts like a torta di riso, raspberry with passionfruit sorbet and meringue shard and, of course, a decadent tiramisu. All served with a crisp class of G.H. Mumm. It doesn’t get much better. Book your table here.
Take your Valentine’s Day celebrations down to the waterfront and secure one of the best seats in town at Bivacco. Gaze across the beautiful Viaduct Harbour while enjoying a range of delicious dishes from this restaurant’s special Valentine’s Day offering. Alongside all of Bivacco’s usual delights, dinners will find NZ crayfish mornay, bone-in ribeye steak, and a decadent chocolate and hazelnut mousse. See details and book your table here.
Both of Auckland’s Azabu locations will be putting on delightful set menus for Valentine’s Day. Designed as tapas-style banquets, the menus will highlight some of the best dishes from Azabu’s lauded a la carte offering, and will see diners treated to three delicious courses. Expect the likes of freshly-rolled sushi, miso chicken, beef fillet with Japanese chimichurri, and a showstopping vanilla basque cheesecake. For those with littles in tow, the Mission Bay outpost offers a kids menu too. See details and book your table here.
Celebrate love at Somm Wine Bar & Bistro this Valentine’s Day with an unforgettable evening of exquisite dining and fine wine. Enjoy a glass of G.H. Mumm Grand Cordon on arrival, followed by an elegant three-course set menu. Enhance the romance with curated wine flights, designed to elevate your experience. Book your table here.
Take your loved one on a Journey through India this Valentine’s Day with Cassia’s exclusive seven-course menu including a special cocktail for $145pp. Indulge in a modern Indian feast that promises an unforgettable experience for you and your loved one. See details and book your table here.
Dine under romantic twinkling lights in the heart of Britomart this Valentine’s Day, and savour Ortolana’s exquisite three-course set menu alongside your loved one for $95pp. Bespoke dishes include handmade pappardelle, market fish crudo with peach, chilli, and citrus labneh, and a burnt peach cheesecake perfect for sharing, best washed down with a glass of champagne. Book your table here.
Step into newly opened College Hill Wine Room‘s air of Parisian romance this Valentine’s Day, as the space is transformed into an intimate dining room for one day only. Hopeless romantics executive chef Ryan Moore and David Nash have curated a special wine and food pairing for the occasion, available for $240pp, complete with a delicious dolce gift box to enjoy at home. Book your table here.
Indulge in an exquisite Valentine’s Day celebration at MASU with a special four-course menu. For $145 per person, diners will delight in the vibrant tastes of summer with dishes like seasonal vegetable tempura, wagyu, with pumpkin miso purée and teriyaki jus, beef tataki maki roll with pink flower crumble, and more, with and a delectable cherry chocolate mousse with sour cherry to finish. See details and book your table here.
This Valentine’s Day, let Esther play cupid with a four-course menu featuring Te Kouma oysters, yellowfin tuna crudo, pistachio-crusted lamb, duck fat potatoes, and a decadent dark chocolate ganache — with a Valentine’s cocktail thrown in for good measure. Whether your romantic rendezvous is with your significant other or galentine, Esther is the perfect place for an unforgettable evening. Book your table here.
Head to this beautiful downtown restaurant at the base of Hotel Britomart for a romantic affair this Valentine’s Day. The special menu has been designed to highlight some of Kingi’s signature dishes and will feature a selection of antipasti to share followed by a choice of main (featuring squid ink tagliatelle, pan-roasted snapper, or chickpea farinata) with a special dessert to share, all for $90 per person. Take it up a notch with Te Matuku Bay oysters to start, or add matched wines for a truly special evening. There are two seating options, one at 5pm and one at 8pm. Book your table here.
Take a journey through the land and sea with The Grill’s expertly-crafted, six-course Surf & Turf tasting menu this Valentine’s Day, indulging in the best of New Zealand produce. From Auckland Island Scampi to a Study of Wagyu and a delectable bone marrow crumpet with yellowfin tuna tartare, finished with a Whittaker’s Chocolate ganache, hazelnuts and beef-fat caramel, make Valentine’s Day one to remember here at The Grill. Book your table here.
Celebrate love at Darling on Drake this Valentine’s Day, where indulgence meets refined romance. Share the Champagne & Oysters special, savour the rich Cupid’s Cocoa Delight chocolate mousse, and sip on the returning Cherub cocktail — featuring a Meadowlark Cherub pendant encased in ice. A dreamy menu, perfect for two. Book your table here.
Want to try something new this Valentine’s Day? Experience a fresh exploration of Pacific cuisine at Metita, where traditional Pacific flavours are redefined and reimagined for contemporary tastes. Indulge in their special four-course Valentine’s Day menu for $140pp with a cocktail included. Book your table here.
For those down south, Ayrburn is the only place to be on February 14th — with its picturesque setting and celebratory happenings. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening of romance and entertainment as Ayrburn’s iconic Jazz Club brings its magic to The Woolshed, where you can settle in for a three-course set menu, perfectly paired with live jazz from Harriet & the Radiophonics.
Fresh floral bouquets will also be available to purchase from R.M Prime Produce, and The Burr Bar offers the perfect spot for a nightcap, where the romantic ‘Reid my lips’ cocktail is an absolute must.
On Saturday, 22nd February, Ayrburn’s stunning grounds will transform into an open-air stage for an unforgettable evening of opera, featuring three of New Zealand’s most celebrated voices — Jonathan Lemalu, Edward Laurenson, and Deborah Wai Kapohe.
Right: Jonathan Lemalu. Left: Edward Laurenson
Grammy Award-winning bass Jonathan Lemalu brings his globally renowned artistry, while acclaimed baritone Edward Laurenson showcases his operatic and musical theatre versatility. Completing the trio, Deborah Wai Kapohe captivates with her dynamic performances spanning opera, contemporary Māori music, and international concert stages. Accompanying them on piano is the esteemed Terence Dennis, a distinguished recital partner to Dame Kiri Te Kanawa.
Set against Ayrburn’s elegant backdrop and the natural beauty of The Dell, this promises to be an extraordinary evening of passion, power, and musical brilliance. Experience world-class opera in an enchanting open-air setting — sure to be a night to remember.
Secure your tickets to this unmissable showcase here.
The sun is out in full force this week, which means that sun protection is at the top of the agenda. Instead of coating yourself in a substance that resembles PVA glue or slathering your skin in a greasy, sticky formula — add one of these mighty formulations to your arsenal. Trust us, you will never look back.
Here, we round up the best protectants for your face, body, and hair this season.
For more exclusive access to what the city has to offer, engaging content, excellent imagery and thought provoking commentary on the life that surrounds you, subscribe to Denizen magazine now.
