Cluster stool by Craig Bassam for Bassam Fallows from Simon James

This meticulously crafted home by Carla Barton pays homage to its historical context while embracing a modernist ethos

Architecture — Roger Nahum and Andrew Spaile
Interior Design — Carla Barton
Styling — Studio CD
Photography — Felix Forest

Designed by Carla Barton in collaboration with Roger Nahum and Andrew Spaile, this impressive home in one of Sydney’s most desirable suburbs exudes timeless elegance, striking a considered balance between old and new.

Molteni&C Glove Up dining chair from Dawson & Co. and Cassina Capitol Complex chair from Matisse

Drawing inspiration from classical Georgian architecture, as well as chic, contemporary European interiors, this ‘downsizer’ residence seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, slotting into its historic setting with elegance and ease.

On the ground floor, a welcoming and expansive entry foyer sets the tone, leading into refined living and dining areas, a modest, thoughtfully designed kitchen, integrated laundry, powder room, study, and double garage. On the top floor, three bedrooms, each with generous ensuites and walk-in wardrobes, have been imagined as quiet spaces for rest and repose, with calming colours and luxurious textures harmonising to stunning effect. Separating the two levels, a stone and iron staircase winds upwards through the home’s centre, sitting as both a striking feature and conduit between private and public domains.

When it came to how they wanted the newly-built home to feel, the client’s brief was clear: cohesion and calm came first. When imagining the palette, they didn’t want any finishes to jump out, or be too ‘in your face’, and as such, Barton kept things soft and understated, drawing inspiration from the blend of contemporary interior lifestyle and rich architectural history in projects coming out of Paris, London, and New York.

Striking, natural materials such as detailed marble, quartzite, timber veneer, metal, and Murano glass take centre stage, imbuing the home with a sense of warmth and bringing subtle character to living spaces, punctuated with an eclectic yet elegant mix of furnishings and artworks adding depth and vibrancy to an otherwise muted and minimal canvas.

“The design challenge was to create a home that transcends trends and embraces a timeless aesthetic, while maintaining a fresh, modern, and luxurious appeal.”

The design challenge was to create a home that transcends trends and embraces a timeless aesthetic, while maintaining a fresh, modern, and luxurious appeal. Grand Georgian was meticulously designed to reflect the client and designers’ shared reverence for quality, with a mind to the changing needs of family life over time.

Vitra Wiggle chair from Matisse, ClassiCon Day Bed from Matisse and Established & Sons Cho floor lamp from Simon James

As a result, the quietly designed interiors reflect a sophisticated blend of old-world charm and contemporary allure. Regal Georgian detailing and architectural accents pay homage to the home’s heritage, while a carefully curated mix of modern furnishings and finishes add a dynamic contrast. This fusion of styles creates a design language that is both sophisticated and timeless, with understated luxury prevailing — making way for the future while honouring the past.

Design

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Devonport institution Stone Oven has been reimagined, with new owners and a bold new vision

Some places seem as if they’ve always been there — woven into the rhythm of a community, and for Devonport locals, Stone Oven is one of those places. A mainstay for over two decades, the beloved café had weathered its share of challenges. But when Brendan and Dani took the reigns four months ago, they saw not just a space in need of revival, but an opportunity to honour the past while shaping the future. “Stone Oven blends warmth, nostalgia, and a fresh, vibrant energy,” says Brendan.

Owners, Brendan and Dani

With backgrounds spanning fine dining institutions like Paris Butter, The River Café, and a five-year tenure at Cazador (where Brendan was head chef), the couple has hospitality in their bones. They’ve done the food truck hustle while raising a young family, and now, with their kids a little older, stepping into a bricks-and-mortar eatery feels like the right next move.

Their vision for the Devonport institution was nostalgia, but elevated. Stone Oven’s menu reimagines Kiwi café staples with a refined touch — think eggs benedict with hollandaise espuma, avocado on sourdough lifted with gochugaru and radish, and a venison smashburger that already has regulars talking. The cabinet stays true to its roots, with freshly baked lamingtons and lolly cake on offer — a nod to the café’s early days.

Left: Venison smash burger. Right: Mince on toast

On the coffee front, they take their brews very seriously indeed. They’ve partnered with Eighthirty, pouring their classic espresso blend alongside rotating single-origin filter options. A top-tier slayer Steam EP machine ensures every pour is dialled in, and sustainability is front of mind — milk from Kaipaki Dairies arrives in reusable vessels, while surplus filter coffee finds new life in their grapefruit cold brew. Matcha has also become a focus, and as much, Stone Oven’s is some of the best in the city. Soon, a liquor license will usher in Italian Aperitivo cocktails, local beers, and a wine list showcasing New Zealand’s best.

The space itself tells a story. A century-old building, restored with care. Rustic charm meets mid-century modern, thanks to a hands-on collaboration with Millé — painted, plastered, and lovingly revived by Brendan and Dani themselves. Every imperfection embraced, every detail considered. “We’re obsessed with our old building,” says Brendan, “We love every little nook, cranny, and imperfection (and there are plenty!).”

At its heart, Stone Oven is about connection — to place, to the past, and to a culture of hospitality that makes Auckland’s café scene one of the best in the world. As Brendan puts it, “We’re selling nostalgia. We’re selling Auckland.” And Devonport is all the better for it.

Opening Hours:
Monday — Friday, 7am — 3pm
Saturday — Sunday, 8am — 3pm

stoneoven.co.nz

Stone Oven

5 Clarence Street
Devonport
Auckland
0624

Gastronomy

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Meet The Motor Club — a new luxury vehicle storage facility in Queenstown taking the stress out of travel

Nestled at the gateway to Queenstown Airport, The Motor Club offers an unrivalled solution for secure, luxury vehicle storage. From a long weekend to a long holiday, this exclusive facility ensures that vehicles, boats, campervans, and personal items are stored in the utmost safety, with every detail of care considered. Whether you need long-term storage for your prized vehicle, or temporary shelter for a trailer boat, The Motor Club offers flexible options to meet any and every need.

Each storage space at The Motor Club is designed with security and convenience in mind. The facility provides covered, secure parking that keeps vehicles protected from the elements, while also being managed by an expert team, which ensures peace of mind.  But, the offering is not storage alone, The Motor Club also offers a range of comprehensive concierge services. These include private transfers directly to Queenstown Airport, ensuring that clients can travel effortlessly to and from their flight, without the hassle of parking or logistics.

There are a number of options available, from short-term parking to longer stays and luxurious valet services. For those who expect nothing but the best, The Motor Club’s valet offers meticulous grooming, ensuring your vehicle remains in pristine condition while you’re away. Whether it’s a sports car, motorhome, or boat, each asset is treated with care, preserving its value and appearance. In addition, The Motor Club provides a unique ‘lifestyle locker’ — a spacious, secure area designed for seasonal items like mountain bikes, skis, or golf clubs, allowing guests to store their personal belongings with the same level of security and care.

The building itself is also worthy of note, designed by Mason & Wales to slot seamlessly into its surrounds — with nods to the rugged landscape and mountainous ranges. Complimenting the striking exteriors, Tailor & Curate were brought on board to carefully curate the interiors — creating a chic, comfortable space for both work and relaxation.

Convenience is at the heart of The Motor Club’s offerings. Guests can relax in the elegant, well-appointed lounge, located just a short distance from Queenstown Airport. Here, you can unwind before or after your journey, knowing your vehicle is in safe hands. The venue also provides a selection of additional services, such as pantry staples and curated picnic platters, allowing you to begin (or end) your trip with thoughtful touches that enhance your experience.

Whether you’re an out-of-town property owner or a visitor seeking a premium storage experience, The Motor Club ensures that your vehicle and belongings are cared for with unparalleled attention to detail. With flexible options, private transfers, and a full range of concierge services, it’s an experience designed to alleviate stress and elevate every journey.

If you plan to attend the Ayrburn Classic this weekend, leave your vehicle in great hands with The Motor Club. Secure a spot here.

themotorclub.co.nz

The Motor Club

1 Hansen Road

Frankton

Queenstown

Escape

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Trouble drifting off? We consult a sleep expert on the 10 steps to follow to start having the best sleep of your life

In a bid to discover the true, wellness-enhancing benefits of a deep, restorative sleep, we consulted Olivia Arezzolo, a renowned Australian sleep expert, who divulged the 10 crucial steps that will change your evening routine for the better.

It’s been a long held belief that the cure-all for many of our wellbeing woes is simply getting more sleep. But we all know that this is much easier said than done. Queenstown-based, Australian sleep expert and best-selling author Olivia Arezzolo, however, is one person who seems to have cracked the code.

Sleep Expert — Olivia Arezzolo

While her ritual may seem rigorous, Arezzolo strongly believes that to truly improve your sleep you must be vigilant. It not only shifts lingering fatigue, but helps to curb illness, alleviate cognitive issues and support mental health. So if you too want to improve your sleep, these are Arezzolo’s 10 essential steps to a restful and fulfilling night. 

1. Block Blue Light

According to research, blue light is one of the biggest triggers for a bad night’s sleep. You can (and should) remedy this by investing in a pair of blue light-blocking glasses, which filter the overstimulating blue light from any screens, and offer a nice, soothing lens similar in colour to candlelight. Put these on for at least two hours before bed.

Denizen Recommends
Tom Ford TF5634-B from Fashion Eyewear
Cutler and Gross 1305 Square Glasses from Parker & Co
Hardwire Glasses from Quay
Cannage S1F from Dior

Rectangular Frame Glasses from Gucci
Tom Ford TF6048-B from Fashion Eyewear
The Book Club Snatcher Glasses from David Jones
Tom Ford TF5737-B from Fashion Eyewear

2. Use Lavender Oils

An age old cure-all that even your grandmother swore by, lavender is scientifically proven to induce sleep. Two hours before bedtime, either rub a couple of drops on your temples or ideally, diffuse some in your bedroom.

Denizen Recommends
This Works
Deep Sleep Superblend from Mecca
ECO. Lavender Pure Essential Oil from The Iconic
Jurlique Lavender Body Oil from Adore Beauty
Pure Body Naturals Lavender Oil from iHerb

3. Disconnect From Tech

Whether you use a blue light blocking filter on your device or not, the evidence still insists that you turn your screens off at least an hour before bed. With the world at your fingertips, laptops, tablets, phones and even televisions are a hive for hyperactivity. If you can, remove them from the bedroom altogether.

4. Wash Off The Day

A nighttime shower is always a relaxing ritual to wash off the stresses (and dirt) of the day. Warm water moves your body into a gentle, relaxed state, and a little self-care routine like this is always soothing.

5. Take Magnesium-Based Supplements

Magnesium is the best micronutrient for inducing deep sleep, and when deficient, it’s noticeable; creating symptoms like hyperactivity and restless, twitching legs. When you hop out of the shower, take a magnesium-based supplement. Even better when paired with a calming, chamomile tea.

Denizen Recommends
Magnesium Restore from BePure
Magnesium Night Powder from Vitable
Lypo-Spheric Magnesium L-Threonate from HealthPost

6. Read A Book

Research has shown that even as little as six minutes of reading reduces stress levels by up to 68 percent. It’s the perfect way to unwind before bed, and it doesn’t need to be a challenging read. (But it does need to be a proper, analogue book — no Kindles after nine o’clock.)
See our recommendations on what to read right now here.

7. Use An Eyemask

A simple silk eyemask is one of the best investments you can make for your slumber. It supports sleep habits by blocking out any small, bright distractions, and the textural feel is surprisingly soothing. This is the last thing to do before drifting off.

Denizen Recommends
Slip Sleep Mask from Sephora
Deep Sleep Mask from Dore & Rose
Kitsch Satin Pillow Eyemask from Adore Beauty
Sleep mask & cashmere pouch from Miu Miu

8. Keep A Checklist

Somewhere handy, keep a checklist nearby. This isn’t forever, but it is to ensure you do every step, every night. Over time it will become more ritualistic and natural. For now, this checklist is essential.

Denizen Recommends
Plan De Paris Motif Notebooks from Christian Dior
Caran d’Ache Ballpoint Pen from Farfetch
The Five Minute Journal from Revolve
LARGE TIAN PRINT NOTEBOOK Gucci
Casablanca x S.T.DUPONT rollerball pen from Farfetch
Clemence Notebook from Louis Vuitton
Pix Rollerball from Montblanc
S.T. Dupont Logo-print Notebook from Farfetch

9. Be Consistent

Arezzolo recommends undertaking this routine for at least a week — including all elements — before you knock its efficacy. Good things take time, but with this approach, it’s a matter of days, not months.

10. Stay Accountable

Embarking on a quest for a good night’s sleep is best when done together. The easiest person to undertake this with is your partner, as they’re often either the victim or the culprit of any bad sleep habits.

oliviaarezzolo.com.au

Wellbeing

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Raise a glass to rosé as Soul Bar & Bistro’s month-long celebration returns

On a sunny day, nothing can quench our thirst quite like a crisp glass of rosé, particularly when it is consumed while basking in the beautiful surrounds of Soul Bar & Bistro’s sprawling terrace. Taking this idea and thrusting it into the spotlight, the lauded Viaduct Harbour restaurant is bringing back its month-long celebration of rosé, where specials on wine collide with a variety of delicious, creative, and unexpected cocktails, crafted in line with the pink theme and designed to suit any palate.

Right: the Baby Spice Champagne Spritz

This year, Rosé Month at Soul Bar & Bistro is running now for 30 days, culminating on Thursday 17th April. There, diners will find a comprehensive line-up of rosé-centric cocktails (starting at just $19), designed for the occasion by Soul’s clever Bar Manager, including the Cherry Margy and the Baby Spice Champagne Spritz.

with a raft of champagne deals, including g.h. mumm cordon rosé reims, mumm rsrv rosé foujita reims, perrier-jouët blason rosé épernay & perrier-jouët belle èpoque rosé épernay

And for those who prefer to celebrate rosé with a glass or two of the best varietals, Soul will also be offering a raft of unmissable wine and Champagne deals throughout March, including G.H. Mumm Rosé at just $140 a bottle, and magnums galore for anyone wanting to go all out.

Forget your weekend plans — SOUL is throwing the ultimate soirée. On March 22nd and 23rd, the ultimate Pink Party takes over, with SOUL’s pastry maestros crafting blushing delights and Petra from BUTTER BUTTER whipping up exclusive Rosé Month treats. Blush florals, sparkling face paint, pink cocktails, and a rosy-hued DJ set the scene. Gather your favourites, dress the part, and revel in a perfectly pink celebration.

Left: Rosé month treats from Butter Butter. Right: the negroni sour & drop the beet

So whether you consider yourself a die-hard fan of delicious rosé or are simply seeking an excuse to spend a few hours being treated to Soul’s exceptional hospitality, Rosé Month is the celebration you’ve been waiting for. Get ready to bask in the final weeks of summer while sipping on some seriously delicious libations — this is something you certainly don’t want to miss.

Dates:
18th March — 17th April

soulbar.co.nz

Gastronomy

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Harriet Dyer as Ashley and Patrick Brammel as Gordon in Colin From Accounts
Miles Jupp as Nigel and Tom Hollander as Rev. Adam Smallbone in Rev.
Harrison Ford as Dr. Paul and Jason Segel as Jimmy in Shrinking
Siân Brooke as Karen, Esther Smith as Nikki and Rafe Spall as Jason in Trying
Jason Sudeikis as Ted Lasso and Hannah Waddingham as Rebecca in Ted Lasso
David Mitchell as Mark and Robert Webb as Jeremy in Peep Show
Alan Ritchson as Thad in Blue Mountain State
Sharon Horgan as Sharon and Rob Delaney as Rob in Catastrophe

In need of some comic relief? These are the best underrated comedy series worth a watch

Some shows steal the spotlight, while others quietly deliver brilliance in the background. This round-up dives into the most underrated comedy series — sharp, offbeat gems that deserve a place on your watchlist. From unconventional love stories to workplace absurdity and the chaotic joys of modern parenthood, these shows balance wit with heart, offering fresh takes on humour that might have slipped under the radar. Whether you’re after clever dialogue, unexpected satire, or pure feel-good escapism, these sometimes overlooked series are sure to become your next binge-worthy obsession.

Colin From Accounts

Watch now on TVNZ+

Brought together by a car accident and an injured dog who they name Colin, two flawed, funny strangers — Ashley and Gordon — form an unexpected bond. As they navigate personal chaos and awkward encounters, their unlikely friendship slowly blossoms into something more. Colin from Accounts, with its offbeat humour and heartfelt plot line, offers a witty, refreshing take on life, love, and second chances.

Lovesick

A hidden gem in Netflix’s catalogue, Lovesick is a sharp, heartfelt British comedy that certainly deserves more attention than it got. Following Dylan as he retraces past relationships after a chlamydia diagnosis, the show blends witty humour with genuine emotional depth as he explores past relationships. With charming performances and a refreshingly honest take on love and friendship, it’s a must-watch for rom-com fans seeking something smart and endearing.

Catastrophe

Watch now on TVNZ+

Hilarious and heartwarming, Catastrophe follows an American man, Rob, and an Irish woman, Sharon, whose brief fling results in an unplanned pregnancy — leading them to navigate a fast-tracked relationship. As they fumble through marriage, parenting, and cultural clashes, the series captures the chaos and absurdity of modern love with brilliant chemistry and biting wit.

Shrinking

Watch now on Apple TV+

After losing his wife, therapist Jimmy Laird (Jason Segel) ditches professional boundaries and starts giving his patients unfiltered, sometimes reckless advice. His new approach causes ripple effects in their lives — and forces him to confront his own grief. Backed by a stellar cast, including Harrison Ford, Shrinking, with its clever humour and heartfelt storytelling, proves that sometimes, following the heart over the head is the right approach.

LOVE

Watch now on Netflix

In LOVE, Gus, a sweet (yet neurotic) guy, crosses paths with Mickey, a free-spirited but emotionally damaged woman. Their unpredictable romance unfolds in Los Angeles, where they grapple with personal baggage, commitment issues, and awkward moments. This witty series dives into the messiness of relationships, offering a raw, relatable portrayal of love, flaws, and growth.

Trying

Watch now on Apple TV+

Nikki and Jason want a baby, but with natural conception off the table, they turn to adoption. As they navigate endless obstacles, well-meaning but chaotic loved ones, and their own insecurities, Trying delivers a heartfelt, hilarious look at modern parenthood. With charming performances and sharp writing, it’s a warm, witty exploration of love, resilience, and what it really means to be ready.

Ted Lasso

Watch now on Apple TV+

Not necessarily underrated, but worthy of a shout-out to push it to the top of your watchlist, Ted Lasso is a heartfelt comedy which follows an optimistic American football coach who’s hired to manage a struggling English soccer team — despite having no experience with the sport. What begins as a setup for failure turns into a heartwarming journey as Ted’s relentless positivity, unconventional coaching, and deep empathy transform the team, winning over skeptical players, staff, and fans in unexpected ways.

Peep Show

Watch now on Prime Video

Two socially awkward roommates, Mark and Jez, navigate their dysfunctional lives filled with cringe-worthy decisions, selfishness, and strange humour. Peep Show takes you inside their minds with first-person perspective, offering brutally honest internal monologues that reveal their deepest insecurities and bizarre ambitions. A darkly comedic, yet surprisingly heartfelt, exploration of friendship and self-doubt.

Blue Mountain State

Watch now on Prime Video

At the fictional Blue Mountain State University, a group of rowdy college athletes navigate over-the-top parties, wild antics, and their hectic sports careers. The show follows newcomer Alex Moran as he joins the team, balancing fame, mischief, and a chaotic life on and off the field. It’s a raucous, irreverent comedy about college life, friendship, and everything in between.

Kath & Kim

Watch now on Netflix

Gina Riley as Kim, Peter Rowsthorn as Brett, Jane Turner as Kath, Glenn Robbins as Kel and Magda Szubanski as Sharon in Kath & Kim

And oldie bit a goldie. Kath and Kim are a mother-daughter duo living in suburban Melbourne, where their hilariously dysfunctional relationship and outrageous personalities take center stage. The show follows Kath’s search for love and Kim’s self-absorbed antics, offering a wildly entertaining, often absurd look at family dynamics, with a unique Aussie twist.

Rev.

Rev follows the life of Adam, an inner-city Anglican priest struggling to balance his faith, personal life, and the demands of his parish. As he deals with eccentric parishioners, his own moral dilemmas, and a series of increasingly ridiculous situations, the show presents both a humorous and a heartfelt exploration of spirituality, responsibility, and life’s unpredictability.

Wicked Little Letters

Watch now on Neon

In a sleepy British seaside town, Wicked Little Letters follows two women whose escalating feud involves sending increasingly outrageous letters to the local paper. As their rivalry intensifies, the town’s eccentricities begin to emerge. The show offers a clever and entertaining exploration of small-town drama and the impact of words, filled with wit and absurd humour.

Culture

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With a new chef at the helm and a delicious new menu, Waiheke Island’s Ki Māha should be on your hit list

With the golden light of autumn lingering over Onetangi Beach, Ki Māha is embracing the season with a refreshed menu under the expert guidance of newly appointed head chef Vicky Shah. This is casual beachside dining elevated to an art form — a celebration of provenance, craft, and the island’s abundant offerings.

Head Chef Vicky Shah

Shah, whose career spans some of the country’s most lauded restaurants — including The Sugar Club, Ahi, and Cassia — brings a distinctive approach to Ki Māha’s culinary philosophy. His dishes balance innovation with deep respect for Aotearoa’s seasonal produce, weaving together vibrant flavours that speak of place and time. His passion for cooking, nurtured from childhood, translates into a menu that is both sophisticated and deeply comforting.

Left: Pan-seared scallops. Right: Raw bigeye tuna

Autumn’s arrival invites indulgence, and Ki Māha’s new offerings are a masterclass in refined simplicity. Freshly shucked oysters with green apple ice capture the lingering warmth of the season, while the venison tartare — elevated with smoked mayonnaise and brioche — brings an earthy richness. Pan-seared scallops, paired with parsnip purée and crispy jamón, offer a balance of texture and depth. And, for those seeking true decadence, the 55-day aged eye fillet, served with black garlic and tarragon mustard, is a standout.

Freshly shucked market oysters with green apple ice

With the island’s clement weather holding, long lunches that stretch into golden evenings remain a tempting proposition. Whether you’re drawn by the spectacular views and impeccable wine selection or the thoughtful craftsmanship of Shah’s menu, Ki Māha continues to define what beachside dining should be: elegant, effortless, and unforgettable.

kimaha.nz

Gastronomy

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Fall ’25 Trend Report — straight from Paris Fashion Week

Fashion, but make it data — we’re unpacking what, precisely, is trending this season, based on the most commonly seen looks at Paris Fashion Week. From the return of (faux) fur to alluring embellishments, a love for leather, and the sensorial hue we should be turning to, these are the top trends to inform your autumn wardrobe.

Fall Trend Report
54% of shows featured Sparkly Embelishments
Fall Trend Report
63% of shows featured Faux Fur Accents

Fall Trend Report
33% of shows featured Oversized Leather Jackets

Fall Trend Report
13% of shows featured Butter Yellow

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Bivacco’s unmissable Ladies Lunch is back for autumn

It’s no secret that, when it comes to gathering your girlfriends for a long lunch, Bivacco is the perfect venue for the occasion. The perfect mix of chic and convivial, it’s a prime spot to while away an afternoon, and now, the eatery’s ever-popular Ladies Lunch is back to make the experience all the more alluring.

Running every Saturday from 11am — 3pm, Bivacco’s Autumn Ladies Lunch offers a relaxed, three-course lunch for a modest $49, which includes your choice of a Hendrick’s cocktail, glass of prosecco, or one of the famed margaritas.

Left: Hendrick’s Grand Cabaret Passionfruit Cocktail. Right: Heirloom Tomato Salad, Stracciatella, Olive Sourdough Crostini, Buckwheat

On the food front, you’ll find the ever-inventive and always tasty fare Bivacco is known for — from heirloom tomato salad with stracciatella to Big Glory Bay salmon crudo, wood fired bavette steak with salmoriglio and baby onions, and meringue with summer berries and vanilla mascarpone — along with several more utterly delectable dishes to choose from.

Wood Fired Bavette Steak, Salmoriglio, Baby Onions

And, if you did want to drag some lads along, they’re more than welcome to join in on the fun. Although perhaps they’d be happier parked up at the bar enjoying Bivacco’s satisfying bar specials menu including ribs, steak & frites, burgers, and pizza. All paired nicely with the new cocktails on offer.

Autumn Ladies Lunch hours:
Saturdays, 11am until 3pm

bivacco.co.nz

Gastronomy

Have you tried Queens Wineshop? Discover the chic, cosy bottle shop in the heart of the city
These are the irresistible new dishes you need to try this weekend at Soul Bar & Bistro
We present Denizen’s definitive guide to Mother’s Day dining
Noosa Eat & Drink Festival's Long Lunch

There’s a new travel destination emerging as a culinary capital, where world-class hospitality and relaxed coastal living collide

With its golden beaches, lush hinterland, and a laid-back energy that feels like summer never ends, the Sunshine Coast has long been a go-to retreat for those seeking warmth and relaxation. But beyond the surf and sunshine, a new wave of creativity is redefining this coastal paradise, making it an unmissable destination not only for admirers of exceptional design and those looking to immerse themselves in a burgeoning cultural scene, but for gastronomes seeking to broaden their culinary horizons.

The Curated Plate, spotlighting local farmers, artisan producers, and the chefs who champion them

Here, dining experiences are centred on provenance, passion, and the people behind each plate. The region’s deep connection to its land and sea fuels an ever-evolving food scene, where fresh-off-the-boat seafood meets farm-to-table artistry, and local distillers and brewers craft some of Australia’s most exciting small-batch pours. It’s a place where long lunches spill into golden afternoons, and every bite tells a story of the region’s rich, sun-soaked natural bounty.

Noosa Eat & Drink Festival Long Lunch presented by Cloudy Bay

This autumn, alongside endless eateries which showcase the best of the region, two unmissable events bring this thriving culinary culture to life: Noosa Eat & Drink Festival (29th May — 1st June) and The Curated Plate (25th July — 3rd August).

The Arcadia Street Long Lunch at Noosa Eat & Drink Festival

At Noosa Eat & Drink Festival, the beachfront buzzes with energy, as top chefs — this year including New Zealand’s very own Josh Emett — showcase innovative takes on coastal cuisine. Think seafood towers with Moreton Bay bugs, plates infused with native botanicals, and fresh, vibrant flavours that pair perfectly with a crisp, local white wine. It’s a festival that celebrates Noosa’s effortless charm and its ever-growing reputation as a world-class food destination.

The Curated Plate’s long-table feast at Beerwah Yandalla Farms

Then, later in the season, The Curated Plate invites visitors deeper into the region, from the coastline to the hinterland, offering immersive food experiences that spotlight local farmers, artisan producers, and the chefs who champion them. Expect long-table feasts in macadamia orchards, intimate tastings at boutique distilleries, and menus that honour the Sunshine Coast’s abundant natural larder.

Enjoy immersive food experiences at The Curated Plate

With direct flights from Auckland with Jetstar year-round, and Air New Zealand from June to October, the Sunshine Coast is just a short trip across the ditch — where a whole world of discovery awaits. Whether it’s beachside dining at sunset, a hinterland gin tasting, or a deep dive into Australia’s fresh seafood scene, this is a destination where food, flavour, and an enviably relaxed lifestyle come together in perfect harmony. This season, the Sunshine Coast is serving something special.

queensland.com

Gastronomy

Have you tried Queens Wineshop? Discover the chic, cosy bottle shop in the heart of the city
These are the irresistible new dishes you need to try this weekend at Soul Bar & Bistro
We present Denizen’s definitive guide to Mother’s Day dining