Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Josh Harvey | 26 Mar 2025
Bar Magda is giving us yet another reason to embrace the cooler evenings with their latest offering — a curated selection of snacks and drinks, available for just $8 every Thursday evening. Whether it’s a date night or a casual post-work gathering with friends, their new Thursday D8 Night is a deliciously affordable way to unwind in the heart of the city.
Left: Parmesan custard with preserved pimiento. Right: Barbecue chicken skewers
On the menu, indulgence starts with a silky parmesan custard, topped with preserved pimiento and served with two pieces of house-made focaccia. For seafood lovers, the spicy tuna on toast is a standout, featuring sesame mayo, white anchovy, and a pop of tobiko. Meatier options include pork and duck albondigas paired with vibrant purple atchara, as well as barbecue chicken skewers glazed with rich, smoky satti sauce.
Alongside the delectable food on offer, you’ll also find a tasty $8 drink special that’s as beautiful to imbibe as it is to behold (a recurring theme at Bar Magda). The Blueberry Spritz offers a refreshing mix of blueberry vermouth, bubbles, and compote — a vibrant, fruity complement to the delicious bites.
Running indefinitely every Thursday from 5 — 7pm (or until sold out), this is your chance to experience Bar Magda’s signature flavours and cosy eatery at an unbeatable price.
The colour officials have called it, it’s time to don yourself in warming hues of mocha mousse this season. From suede to leather, footwear and accessories to jackets and pared-back tees, we round up the pieces that have our attention.
This summer has been one of the city’s best yet, with a host of exceptional events taking place across the season keeping our calendars and cultural cups full to the brim. From sporting competitions to festivals, family days out to unmissable live performances, there really has something for everyone — inspiring both locals and those visiting to make the most of our spectacular city. One of the final events closing out the season is the World Dance Crew Champs, taking place between the 14th and 19th of April. If you’re planning to attend, make a weekend of it — finding time to enjoy the many spoils of the City of Sails.
Here, to assist you with your planning, we round up where to Eat, Drink, Stay, and Play in Auckland.
World Dance Crew Champs
When & Where: Monday 14th — Saturday 19th April, Due Drop Events Centre
The World Dance Crew Championship is a biennial global event celebrating the artistry and performance of multicultural dance crews. Bringing together the best in hip hop, street, and club dance, this world-class competition highlights creativity, culture, and camaraderie on a global stage, with top-tier judges, an epic prize pool of USD $100,000, and unparalleled talent vying for the crown.
If you’re staying close to the event, or looking for somewhere to eat nearby, on level nine of Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport you’ll find the hotel’s exceptional in-house restaurant, Te Kaahu. Under the masterful guidance of Chef Nancye Pirini, the eatery celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Te Ao Māori kai (food), showcasing the finest local produce Aotearoa has to offer. As such, you’ll find the likes of Chatham Island blue cod, Silver Fern Farms eye fillet, and the Signature ika mata, pairing dayboat caught fish with coconut panna cotta and salted cucumber.
A city stalwart, Kingi — now with newly-appointed Head Chef Stefania Palermo at the helm in the kitchen, offers a menu that celebrates Aotearoa’s kaimoana, showcasing a range of locally-sourced, sustainable seafood dishes that draw attention to New Zealand’s unique environment. Located on the ground floor of Britomart’s historic Masonic building (right next door to The Hotel Britomart) and open throughout the day, Kingi is great to drop into for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or even a quick coffee or cocktail.
If it’s a lively locale that you seek, Soul Bar & Bistro is where we suggest you make a reservation. The Viaduct Harbour go-to can always be counted on to deliver on all fronts. Come for the food, stay for the extensive drinks list, unmatched views (now including a front-row seat to the striking new light installation), and always buzzing vibe. Soul never misses.
One of Auckland’s most popular eateries, Amano is open from early morning, when it serves elevated à la carte breakfast (and a selection of breakfast cocktails), until well into the afternoon and evening, when it is consistently humming with hungry punters. For lunch and dinner, Amano offers a delicious Italian-inspired menu — transforming from a light-filled eatery into an elegant restaurant come evening. Amano’s dedicated bakery is next door, where coffee, fresh juices, pastries, sandwiches, and more are available for anyone seeking a simple takeaway.
Heroing Andalusian flavours in its menu that marries Spanish culinary ideas with fresh New Zealand ingredients, Alma is a one of the tastiest places to post up for a delectable lunch or to book into for an intimate dinner. Serving small, tapas-style plates designed to share, this eatery has become one of our favourites for its unique food, relaxed atmosphere and impressive wine and gin list. (Pro tip: the Tomato Martini is a showstopper.)
Another gem in Viaduct Harbour’s glistening gastronomic crown, Hello Beasty draws inspiration from Korean, Japanese and Chinese cuisine, and as such, offers flavourful fare that promises to expand your culinary horizons. Dinner is the perfect time to visit, ideally with a hearty appetite, so to sample as many dishes as possible — as choosing just a few is near-impossible. The drinks are sublime too — we recommend the impossibly fresh Umeshu Spritz.
Cassia at SkyCity takes modern Indian to new heights, with a delicious selection of contemporary delights perfect for sharing with a group pre-event. In the most central of locations, with a dimly-lit, vibrant dining space, as well as a number of set menus to choose from for those looking to turn lunch or a pre-event bite into a gastronomic delight.
Metita is Michael Meredith’s homage to his homeland, and the culmination of his decades-long career in cooking, and as such, brings something entirely unique to Auckland’s diverse dining scene. Here, you’ll be met with a refined take on Pasifika cuisine.
Bivacco, with its sprawling space and exceptional, decidedly European offering, is the place to be for casual drinks, leisurely weekend lunches, and convivial dinners alike, with its tasty fare, extensive list of libations and consistently good vibes to match. The addition of their ‘Sundown Sessions’ makes it the place to be for an afternoon snack and tipple, too.
This iconic restaurant is small but mighty. Offering a curated and concise menu, and an intimate, calm setting, Ortolana is one spot to which we always find ourselves returning to in the Britomart precinct. With a delicious edit of sharing plates (and some incredibly tasty pasta options, too), a thoughtfully crafted drinks menu, and service that is always swift (if needed), a pre-event stopover at this stalwart eatery is always a treat.
Set in a subterranean spot down Tuawhiti Lane in Britomart, Ghost Street is dimly lit and atmospheric, designed to reimagine the bustling, hole-in-the-wall eateries of Beijing’s famous food street. This idea carries onto the menu too, where punchy, seasonal dishes (inspired by a wide cross-section of Chinese cuisine) run the gamut of flavours from tart and savoury to Sichuan and spice — with something to satisfy every taste and proclivity.
Perched a sun-soaked rooftop within the Commercial Bay precinct, Queens Rooftop boats 270-degree views of the Waitematā Harbour, as well as 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 tasty bite and glass of wine, or a post-event cocktail (or two) — taking in the incredible views from the comfort of the always-lively rooftop terrace.
For a drink pre- or post-event, step into Mea — an intimate cocktail bar in Viaduct Harbour, where a team of award-winning mixologists are on hand to craft rare, exquisite cocktails in a modern waterfront setting. Here, you’ll find a curated menu of forgotten classics and bespoke creations in an unparalleled atmosphere.
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.
Perched above Viaduct Harbour, the Rooftop at QT offers visitors an iconic Auckland experience. With its sunny terrace, panoramic harbour views, and vibrant ambiance, it’s an ideal spot to relax after exploring the city. Savour crafted cocktails and tempting bar snacks by day, then stay to witness Auckland’s enchanting transformation into a glittering nighttime wonderland.
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 one of the most lively locales in Auckland and the perfect place to be for some convivial sundowners.
Elevate your Auckland experience at Bar Albert, the highest bar in New Zealand, soaring 38 floors above the city. Offering breathtaking views and a refined atmosphere, this sky-high gem is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. With its thoughtfully crafted menu and inspired cocktails, Bar Albert invites visitors to savor a taste of Auckland’s vibrant spirit from above.
Inspired by rooftop bars around the world and created with a desire to celebrate the spectacular beauty of Auckland’s unique and varied landscape from above, Sunset was designed as a place to which city-dwellers or those visiting could escape after a long day. Here, satiating drinks and tasty food collide in a sumptuous setting, perfect for whiling away an hour or two and taking it all in.
While Culprit’s innovative culinary concept is perfect for a pre- or post-show bite, with an ever-changing menu comprising trolleys of snacks to share, the eatery’s ‘mischievous younger brother’, Little Culprit, is a fantastic spot to keep the party going. Quaint and chic, this cocktail bar and wine lounge boats an elevated yet relaxed atmosphere, and is perfect for those seeking a nightcap.
A quietly luxurious hotel with a healthy dose of culture is what you’ll find at the newly-opened Pullman. Perfectly placed and convenient to the event, this five star hotel is located a short walk from Auckland Airport’s international terminal. Meaningful design sits at tits heart, paying homage to the land on which it sits, and the suites are where the hotel’s thoughtful design shines the brightest. Outside of the exceptional design, the hospitality offering is world-class, with Te Kaahu, helmed by chef Nancye Pirini, serving refined fare sure to satisfy.
Nestled in the heart of Britomart, this chic hotel offers exquisitely designed rooms (plus five suites) designed to provide a calm respite from the bustle of the city. With warm, modern interiors and a central city location, not to mention the option of ordering room service from none other than Kingi, this centrally-located spot is a delightful place to rest your head.
Set on Auckland’s sparkling waterfront, the Park Hyatt offers a luxurious retreat with stunning harbour views. Spacious, elegantly designed rooms and exceptional amenities ensure a refined escape, while, at the hotel’s acclaimed eatery Onemata, local flavours shine. Whether you’re seeking vibrant city energy or serene relaxation, Park Hyatt delivers the perfect balance.
Globally renowned hotel group InterContinental recently opened an Auckland outpost, occupying a coveted site on Auckland’s waterfront overlooking the harbour and offering guests direct and easy access to some of the best restaurants, bars and retail the city has to offer. But, given the hotel’s utterly luxurious rooms and in-house hospitality with Advieh, there will be little need to leave at all.
Located in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, QT Hotel is a bold blend of contemporary luxury and playful design. Opened in 2020, this stylish retreat features uniquely crafted rooms inspired by the harbor’s natural beauty. With acclaimed dining at Esther and the vibrant Rooftop at QT offering stunning views, it’s the ultimate destination for travellers seeking a chic Auckland experience.
Nestled in the heart of Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, Sofitel Auckland offers a seamless blend of Parisian elegance and New Zealand charm. Luxurious rooms feature private Juliet balconies, deep soaking bathtubs, and stunning harbor views. With its opulent spa, contemporary design, and proximity to the vibrant restaurant precinct, this hotel is the perfect base for a refined Auckland escape.
Gastronomic bliss and refined relaxation abound at SkyCity, where a more-than-perfect place to rest your head awaits. From a luxurious, five-star stay at The Grand by SkyCity, to a perfect platform for staying and playing in the city — SkyCity Hotel, to the city’s newest benchmark in luxury accommodation — the newly opened Horizon Hotel, here, there’s something for every kind of getaway.
Where to
Play
Auckland Art Gallery
Auckland Art Gallery
Nestled beside Albert Park, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is New Zealand’s largest visual arts institution, showcasing over 18,000 works. From Māori and Pacific masterpieces to European classics and contemporary art, its dynamic exhibitions and events make it a cultural cornerstone. Explore its award-winning space, join thought-provoking programs, and immerse yourself in Auckland’s vibrant artistic scene.
Shopping at Commercial Bay
Discover the vibrant allure of Commercial Bay, Auckland’s premier shopping and dining precinct. Indulge in a spot of shopping at luxury boutiques like Wynn Hamlyn and Elle & Riley Cashmere, browse Dior Beauty or Mecca, and unwind at one of the many world-class eateries, before grabbing a bottle for later from Queens Wineshop. With chic eateries and curated stores just steps apart, it’s the perfect destination for fashion, fine dining, and indulgence in the heart of the city.
Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Summit Track
Embark on the Rangitoto Island Summit Walk, an easy hike through ancient lava fields and the world’s largest pōhutukawa forest. Accessible by ferry from downtown Auckland, this popular trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf and back towards Auckland, and an idyllic escape from the city.
Explore Devonport
Only a short, 10-minute ferry ride from Britomart, Devonport feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of central Auckland. A quaint, peaceful, beach-side suburb with plenty to keep you busy, here you’ll find stunning natural attractions alongside a bustling village with plenty to offer on the food and drink front.
Viaduct Harbour
Visit the Viaduct
Viaduct Harbour is Auckland’s vibrant waterfront hub, where world-class dining, lively bars, and captivating art meet stunning maritime views. From iconic eateries like Soul Bar & Bistro to contemporary favorites like Hello Beasty, it’s the ultimate destination for culinary indulgence, social gatherings, and urban exploration. A testament to Auckland’s maritime heritage, Viaduct Harbour is a must-visit precinct for locals and visitors alike.
Charter a Boat
Set sail from Viaduct Harbour and explore Auckland’s stunning coastline with a chartered boat adventure. From leisurely cruises to thrilling sailing excursions, discover the beauty of the Waitematā Harbour and Hauraki Gulf. Whether it’s a trip to Waiheke Island or a private luxury charter on the newly-launched LussoMare, Viaduct Harbour offers a quintessential ‘City of Sails’ experience tailored to your desires.
Waiheke Island
Waiheke Excursion
Just 40 minutes by ferry from Auckland, Waiheke Island offers the perfect escape for locals and visitors alike. Known as the ‘Isle of Wine,’ the island boasts 30+ world-class vineyards, pristine beaches, and elevated dining in one of the country’s most idyllic settings. Explore the local culture, indulge in adventurous activities, or simply unwind and soak in the serenity. Whether for a day trip or an overnight stay, Waiheke is an unmissable destination brimming with natural beauty and charm.
Rest of the best
Must-not miss events
Synthony
When & Where: Saturday 29th March, Auckland Domain
Experience an electrifying fusion of live orchestra, DJs, and vocalists, reimagining iconic dance anthems under the stars. Set across two stages at Auckland Domain, this immersive festival features Basement Jaxx (DJ Set), Example, Darude, and more, alongside gourmet food trucks and vibrant pop-up bars.
In a unique meeting of minds, Armando Cabral joins forces with USM, reimagining the iconic USM Haller system through a deeply personal lens. In this refined edit, he redefines modularity, balancing practicality with aesthetics while drawing on his heritage to infuse each piece with depth and intrigue. Spanning a bed, bookshelf, lounge chair, side table, and wardrobe stand, the collaboration is a testament to design as both function and narrative — where movement and meaning intertwine.
This April, Cāntīng invites you to elevate your weekend ritual with the launch of its Yum Cha Bottomless Brunch. Every Sunday from 11am — 3pm, diners can indulge in an exquisite array of handcrafted dishes and free-flowing beverages, all for $68 per person. With a generous two-hour dining window, it’s the perfect way to end the weekend on a high note.
BBQ duck with hoisin and pancakes
Kicking off the experience, guests can choose from five handmade dim sum dumplings or opt for Cāntīng’s signature tiger prawn toast — a crisp and flavourful start to the feast. The journey continues with a selection of standout mains, including steamed market fish infused with ginger, spring onion, and soy, the vibrant Yusheng king salmon salad, Cantonese crispy pork bao buns, or the beloved BBQ duck served with hoisin and pancakes. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to celebrate fresh ingredients and bold, authentic flavours.
For those seeking an extra spot of indulgence, the menu offers exclusive upgrade options. Delight in Nic Watt’s Black Cod Char Sui or the Sichuan-style BBQ crayfish, each adding an elevated dimension to an already unforgettable brunch. And for a decadent finish, the deep-fried vanilla ice cream with bijiu caramel is a must-try — a sweet, crunchy finale to a sumptuous Sunday spread.
Left: dim sum dumplings. Right: spicy lychee margarita
Of course, no bottomless brunch is complete without an inspired drinks menu. Guests can sip their way through a free-flowing selection of Prosecco, peach bellinis, spicy lychee margaritas, or Cāntīng’s refreshing yuzu lager. A variety of non alcoholic options are also available for those seeking a lighter option.
Shuijing private dining room
Whether gathering with friends or celebrating a special occasion, Cāntīng’s Yum Cha Bottomless Brunch delivers a vibrant and flavourful experience, setting the stage for leisurely, indulgent Sundays ahead.
It’s all well and good when a brand claims to be safe, effective, and sustainable, but in 2025, consumers want proof. In recognising this, ecostore, known for its commitment to plant- and mineral-based cleaning solutions, invited renowned scientist and educator Dr Michelle Dickinson to put its formulas to the test. The goal? To see if they truly deliver on their promises of high-performance, eco-friendly cleaning.
Dr Dickinson, a nanotechnologist, bestselling author, television presenter, and creator of Nanogirl, has built a career on making science accessible. As both a scientist and a parent, she understands the importance of products that are both safe and effective, and in a new video series, she breaks down the science behind ecostore’s formulations, tackling questions such as: Do plant-based cleaners really work? And how do pH levels impact skin health?
Ecostore CEO Pablo Kraus sees this collaboration as an opportunity to showcase the brand’s rigorous scientific foundation, “Dr Michelle Dickinson is one of Aotearoa’s most respected science communicators. She has a rare ability to take complex concepts and make them accessible to everyone. We’ve spent decades perfecting the science behind our products, and we’re excited for Dr Dickinson to share knowledge that’s clear, engaging, and backed by evidence. Her experiments show that our sustainable products are effective, while also caring for our world.”
For Dr Dickinson, this wasn’t just an endorsement — it was a personal investigation, “I’ve been an ecostore customer for years, but having kids made me even more conscious of the products we use at home. I don’t just take brands at their word — I test the science. What I found was impressive. The formulas deliver, the data checks out, and the products do exactly what they claim — without unnecessary chemicals. That’s why I trust ecostore.”
With science-backed results and real-world testing, ecostore proves that sustainability and effectiveness can go hand in hand. Dr Dickinson’s findings confirm that consumers don’t have to compromise — they can choose products that are both safe for their families and kind to the planet.
An afterthought for too long, the skin below the neckline is finally getting the attention it deserves.
Lymphatic Massage
From body sculpting and contouring to increased circulation, reducing fluid retention, strengthening immunity, supporting detoxification, and even enhancing nutrient absorption and bolstering overall health, the benefits of lymphatic massage are vast.
Simple and effective, dry brushing — an ancient Ayurvedic practice from India within which a natural bristle brush is used to gently massage the skin, stimulates the lymphatic system, increases circulation, and gently exfoliates — removing toxins, increasing energy, and reducing cellulite.
Designed to help visibly tone, tighten and firm the skin, there are myriad bespoke formulations that actually work — from Nécessaire’s The Body Serum to Sisley Paris’ Le Sculpteur.
Despite best intentions, it’s not every day that we have the time to enjoy a long, leisurely lunch. Fortunately, for occasions when quick and easy is the only option, some of our favourite spots in the city have tailored offerings for those in a time crunch. From express menus to lunch deals served in haste, we’ve rounded up where to find the very best quick yet satisfying midday fare that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Available: Friday, lunch Offering: $55 for a main, a side and a glass of house wine (min 2 people, max 6 people)
This Ponsonby institution has long been a great choice for a casual but delicious workday lunch, and recently, the addition of a ‘Power Lunch’ (available exclusively on Fridays) has made weekday dining simpler than ever. Here, you’ll find an entree, main and a glass of house wine for $55, and the options are plentiful. As you’d expect, steak takes centre stage with four cuts to choose from, served alongside market fish, crumbed chicken, or vegetarian gnocchi and cult-status sides such as the crayfish mac ‘n’ cheese, duck fat roasted rosemary potatoes, the unforgettable signature creamed spinach, roasted beets with goats cheese and more. Bookings are encouraged.
Available: Monday to Friday, 12pm — 1:30pm Offering: $50 for an entree & a main or $60 with a house beer or wine; add dessert for $5
Here, in the heart of Downtown Auckland, this Britomart stalwart offers an Express Menu for those needing a good meal in the midst of a busy day. For $50, choose from a considered list of Ebisu’s most beloved, contemporary Japanese dishes, including the chef’s selection of fresh market sashimi or a tasty salmon avocado roll to begin, one of three hero mains to follow (the teriyaki chicken with truffle oil is our preference), and a delightful fresh sorbet to finish. A consistently failsafe crowdpleaser, we can’t look past Ebisu for a fantastic lunch in the city — express or otherwise.
Available: Weekdays, 12pm – 2.30pm Offering: $35 for a main and drink
In the heart of Britomart, Kingi’s Express Lunch offers a refined yet fuss-free midday meal, perfect for those short on time but unwilling to compromise on flavour. For $35, choose from a menu that distills the eatery’s signature approach to fresh, sustainable ingredients — think shellfish tagliatelle with a hit of nduja, a raw tuna Caesar that reimagines a classic, or a Wagyu steak flatbread that delivers indulgence without the heaviness. Paired with your choice of drink, it’s a swift yet satisfying way to experience Kingi’s considered fare.
Available: Weekdays from 12pm Offering: $38 for an entree & a main
Perched above the waterfront, Cāntīng’s Express Lunch brings bold, vibrant flavours to the midday rush. For $38 per person, enjoy a two-course selection that highlights the kitchen’s deft hand with modern Cantonese cuisine. Start with your choice of crisp spring rolls or delicate dumplings before moving on to a hero main — whether it’s the punchy bang bang chicken, succulent BBQ duck, or rich, slow-cooked Cantonese pork belly. Designed for efficiency without sacrificing flavour, it’s a quick yet indulgent escape from the working day.
Available: Weekdays from 12pm Offering: $39 comprising of four courses of small plates
If it’s a quick but delicious lunch you’re after, head down to Commercial Bay dining destination Gochu for an unmissable midday deal. From Monday to Friday, diners can discover a delicious Express Lunch menu for $39, comprising four courses of small plates with a rotating cast of dishes — all prepared in 30 minutes or under. Taking the idea of a quick bite and elevating it, Gochu’s new lunch offering is the perfect excuse to escape the office for a midday break.
Weekday Schnitzel Available: Wednesday to Thursday, from 11:30am Weekday SchnitzelOffering: $29 for Veal Schnitzel& a side
Minute Steak Available: Monday to Saturday, lunch Minute SteakOffering: $26 for a 120g scotch with pomme frites & entrecôte sauce
Whether it’s a leisurely break or a quick bite between meetings, there’s a plate waiting for you at Gilt. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, a golden veal schnitzel takes centre stage, served with pomme purée, frites, or a fresh salad for $29. And, any day of the week, the minute steak offers a perfectly seared 120g scotch, crisp pomme frites, and rich entrecôte sauce for just $26. Pull up a bar stool or settle in for a working lunch — either way, it’s a sure to be satisfying pause in the day.
This year’s most anticipated hotel openings offer a glimpse into the future of luxury travel, where immersive experiences and refined design come together in perfect harmony. From Few & Far’s new South African outpost, offering a serene safari escape, to the new Six Senses at The Whiteley in London which deftly blends world-class wellness with the vibrant energy of central London, these new properties promise unparalleled escapes. Each redefines the boundaries of modern luxury in unique ways, creating unforgettable stays that are as much about relaxation as they are about discovery.
Tucked within the untamed beauty of Limpopo, this series of striking lodges offer an intimate, deeply immersive safari experience. Thoughtfully designed with a refined yet understated elegance, its tented suites blend seamlessly into the wilderness, offering panoramic views and absolute privacy. Days unfold with guided bush walks and game drives, while evenings invite slow dining under vast, star-strewn skies. With a focus on conservation and cultural connection, Luvhondo is both a retreat and a revelation — luxury in its most elemental form.
This exclusive mountain retreat offers a fresh take on alpine luxury, blending contemporary design with the natural beauty of the Tyrolean Alps. Prioritising sustainability, the serene escape boasts minimalist architecture that complements its stunning surrounds perfectly, and is only accessible by cable car. Guests can enjoy rejuvenating spa experiences, breathtaking mountain views, and a tranquil atmosphere that invites true relaxation. With only nine suites, guests are afforded both privacy and peace — Eriro is a destination where you can truly disconnect.
Steeped in Burgundian history, Château de la Commaraine is opening its doors this year, offering an exquisite retreat in the heart of Pommard. This meticulously restored 12th-century estate is steeped in old-world charm with vaulted stone cellars, timbered suites, and vineyard views at every turn. Guests can explore its Grand Cru-adjacent vines, indulge in immersive wine experiences, and savour the region’s gastronomic riches in a place of quiet luxury and rich heritage.
Six Senses at The Whiteley is a masterclass in elevated city living, seamlessly blending the brand’s signature wellness ethos with the vibrancy of one of London’s most iconic addresses. Housed in a restored Edwardian building, this urban sanctuary features elegant rooms, a world-class spa, and a range of mindful experiences that invite true relaxation amidst the city’s energy. Whether indulging in biodynamic cuisine, or unwinding in serene spaces, it’s a destination where luxurious self-care and the pulse of London find a midpoint.
A canon of cool, Melbourne Place distills the city’s effortless charm into a refined boutique stay. Designed by Kennedy Nolan, its rooms and suites balance sleek, modern design with a sense of warmth — think rich textures, sculptural lighting, and a palette that mirrors Melbourne’s moody elegance. Steps from the city’s best dining and cultural spots (and with a few of its own in-house), it offers a quiet retreat in the heart of the action that feels quintessential to Melbourne. Thoughtful, understated, and distinctly local, it’s a stay that feels like a well-kept secret.
Where the desert meets the sea, the soon-to-open Amanvari unfolds as a secluded retreat along the Baja Peninsula’s untouched coastline. Elevated pavilions and villas seem to float above mangroves, their minimalist design framing endless ocean views. Days move in an unhurried rhythm — morning swims in a private plunge pool, afternoons exploring the Sea of Cortez, evenings under star-lit skies. Rooted in nature yet undeniably refined, Amanvari is a study in contrasts: raw beauty, effortless luxury, and space to simply be.
An icon reborn, the new Waldorf Astoria New York reclaims its place as the city’s most storied address. Behind its gilded doors, Art Deco grandeur meets 21st-century refinement, with meticulously restored interiors, sumptuous residences, and a level of service that feels both timeless and entirely of the moment. Steps from Park Avenue yet worlds away in its serenity, it offers a rarefied escape in the heart of Manhattan.
Opening its doors this year — the brand’s first (non-moving) hotel, Orient Express La Minerva brings new life to a historic palazzo in the heart of Rome. Inspired by the golden age of travel, its design layers neoclassical grandeur with cinematic romance, with vaulted ceilings, marble-clad salons, and suites that whisper of la dolce vita. Located minutes away from the Pantheon, this is a place where past and present entwine effortlessly to offer a stay that’s truly like no other.
Set to open this June, Vestige Son Ermità and Binidufà are luxurious yet understated boutique sister hotels, where two historic estates come together in harmony with their surroundings. Set against Menorca’s sweeping landscapes, the properties offer an authentic escape, with rustic stone buildings, serene courtyards, and private terraces overlooking rolling hills. Days are spent soaking in the island’s natural beauty, indulging in seasonal local fare at the two on-site eateries, poolside lounging, and exploring nearby beaches. A refined retreat where tradition and tranquility meet the island’s effortless elegance.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline, this incredible, futuristic hotel offers an unparalleled immersion into both modern design and natural beauty. The private villas, with their innovative concepts and expansive views, invite an intimate connection to the surrounding landscape, where endless turquoise waters meet golden sands. From immersive underwater experiences to sunset dinners on the terrace, Michelin starred meals and a sanctuary-like spa, every moment at Shebara is an invitation to revel in the lap of luxury. And, with the ability to book out your own private island, this is the ultimate private retreat.
At Florence’s Collegio alla Querce, centuries-old architecture meets modern refinement in a hotel that conjures the effortless elegance of a refined country house. The former seminary, with its cloistered courtyards and frescoed walls, offers an atmosphere of serenity that envelops every corner — and guest. Wander through lush gardens, enjoy alfresco meals with views of the Tuscan hills, and immerse yourself in the city’s artistic legacy. It’s an enchanting retreat that celebrates both heritage and understated luxury.
As the sun dips behind the mountain ranges surrounding Ayrburn, there’s no better place to settle in than The Bakehouse. From 4pm — 6pm every day, this beloved corner of the precinct invites you to unwind with a glass in hand, good company by your side, and the effortless charm of golden hour all around.
Ayrburn’s house wines take centre stage, at just $12 a pour, offering a taste of the estate’s finest. For those who prefer a crisp, cold brew, tap beers flow for $10, while a perfectly chilled Aperol Spritz ($15) provides the ultimate refresher. And if the afternoon calls for something with a little more oomph, the Espresso Martini ($15) is sure to set the tone.
The Bakehouse
Whether it’s a casual catch-up, a pre-dinner stop-off, or a well-earned pause in the day, The Bakehouse’s Happy Hour is sure to hit the spot. And with the precinct’s myriad dining options just steps away — or a takeaway menu at the ready, filled with endless options from The Bakehouse’s extensive menu — your evening is taken care of.
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