Mother’s Day gifting to celebrate every kind of mother

In the increasingly fast-paced world we live in, mothers are often the axis from which it all spins, carrying not only the tangible tasks, but the invisible weight of caregiving too — so much of which happens out of plain sight. Modern motherhood takes myriad forms, from traditional parenting to unconventional households, single mums and step mums to nurturing grandmothers, loving aunties, and chosen family, and every type of mother figure deserves acknowledgement for all that she does. And there’s no better time to show your appreciation than on Mother’s Day.

This year, legacy jeweller Michael Hill is inviting us all to take a moment to truly cherish the women who shape our worlds in ways both grand and unseen, in a celebration of every form of maternal love. Thoughtfully curated and beautifully crafted, Michael Hill’s collection is designed to honour every mother figure — making it effortless to find a piece as extraordinary as she is. As I look ahead to my third Mother’s Day as a mum, I’ve poured through the expansive offering — selecting a host of styles that will suit women of every taste and style (and perhaps a few pieces for myself, too).

For timeless and refined taste, a range of delicate pieces offer a quiet elegance, while, for the mums who prefer to make a bolder statement, there are plenty of dazzling diamonds sure to capture attention. Whether her style is classic, contemporary, or uniquely her own, Michael Hill offers countless pieces that feel deeply personal.

This Mother’s Day, give a gift that mirrors the mother in your life’s unique essence — a piece that shows exactly what she means to you. At Michael Hill, every detail is considered, every design intentional — because we all know that every mum deserves nothing less than extraordinary.

For the
On-The-Go Mum
rosie huntington-whiteley
10mm Huggie Earrings from Michael Hill
Wade Zip Up Hoodie from Camilla & Marc
Les Tien Serene Scalloped Shorts from Moda Operandi
50cm Fine Rolo Chain from Michael Hill
airpods max from Apple
Croissant Twist 15mm Hoop Earrings from Michael Hill
Alo Yoga Airlift high-rise leggings from MYtheresa
cub3d sneaker from Gucci

For the
Understated Mum
jennifer lawrence
4.00 Carat TW Laboratory-Grown Diamond Tennis Necklace from Michael Hill
THE FRANKIE SHOP Lui poplin shirt from Net-a-porter
Square frame sunglasses from Gucci
Certified 1.00 Carat TW Diamond Solitaire Stud Earrings from Michael Hill
Gabriela Hearst Anjea Bodysuit from Moda Operandi
3.7mm Solid Round Bangle from Michael Hill
Tibi Crispy Nylon Winslow Pant from Muse
Jil Sander Leather loafers from Mytheresa

For the
Va-Va-Voom Mum
nara smith
3.50 Carat TW Emerald Cut Laboratory-Grown Diamond Eternity Ring from Michael Hill
Magda Butrym Ruffle Sequin Gown from Muse
Christian Louboutin
Kate Max Veau Velours Pumps from MOda Operandi
Cushion Cut Green Amethyst Gemstone and 0.25 Carat TW Diamond Halo Ring from MIchael Hill
Rebecca Vallance Lulu gown dress from Farfetch
1.00 Carat TW Laboratory-Grown Graduated Diamond Tennis Necklace from Michael Hill
SIMKHAI Bridget Oyster Shell Clutch from Moda Operandi
Del Core Strapless Crepe Gown from Moda Operandi

For the
Does-It-All Mum
miranda kerr
Sunray Round Signet Ring from Michael Hill
Short Blazer Dress from Dior
Emmett Blazer from Camilla & Marc
50cm Belcher and Paperclip Open Pendant Chain from Michael Hill
Victoria Beckham The Victoria Bag from Muse
Emmett Pant from Camilla & Marc
2.00 Carat TW Flawless Diamond Solitaire Stud Earrings from Michael Hill
ALAÏA Demi-Cœur Mules from Moda Operandi

For the
Grounded Mum
elsa hosk
5mm Ball Stud Earrings from Michael Hill
Printed silk carré from Gucci
DÔEN Abigail Top from Muse
Diamond Accent Scorpio Zodiac Pendant from Michael Hill
Loewe Signature floral sunglasses from Mytheresa
3.28 Carat TW Diamond Tennis Bracelet from Michael Hill
By Malene Birger Barbara Maxi Skirt from Moda Operandi
CHLOÉ Paravent embroidered raffia tote from Net-A-Porter

michaelhill.co.nz

Coveted

Watch the Gucci’s Cruise 2026 fashion show via livestream, as the House heads back to its roots
Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
Met Gala 2025: Our guide to the best looks from the biggest night out in fashion

Jervois Steak House unveils a decadent caviar service

Luxury finds a new expression at Jervois Steak House with the arrival of its elegant Caviar Service, offering diners a refined prelude to their signature cuts. Presented with the classic accompaniments of warm brioche, crisp gaufrettes, silky crème fraîche and a scatter of fresh chives, this indulgent offering is all about ceremony and sophistication.

Two exceptional options anchor the experience: the Siberian Ossetra Superior, a 30g tin of rich, nutty pearls prized for their velvety texture ($180), and the Imperial Osceitra, an elevated selection with golden hue and buttery depth ($230). Both varieties are served in their original tins, nestled in ice, inviting slow appreciation and shared reverence.

In a setting defined by its commitment to premium provenance and bold, confident flavours, the introduction of caviar adds a new layer of luxury — one that speaks to the discerning diner and the timeless appeal of well-executed classics. Whether paired with a glass of Champagne or savoured as a standalone indulgence, JSH’s caviar service offers a taste of something rare, opulent, and quietly unforgettable.

jervoissteakhouse.co.nz

Gastronomy

Step inside The Vault: Gilt Brasserie’s luxe new private dining space
First Look: Masu’s new Express Lunch is refined, fast and full of flavour
These are the best seafood-centric dishes to seek out over the cooler months

Hello Beasty’s vibrant new menu is filled with compelling reasons to book a table

Always delivering a bold, flavour-packed dining experience, Hello Beasty has once again refreshed its offering with a host of inventive new dishes — and the return of some much-loved favourites. With each plate thoughtfully crafted to balance comfort, creativity, and the best of the shifting seasons, there’s never been a better reason to book a table at everyone’s favourite fusion spot.

Here, we round up the dishes we’re loving, from fresh sashimi plates to comforting Japanese milk bread, and everything in between. Enjoy.

Beasty Sashimi Selection

A stunning showcase of fresh and flavourful seafood, Hello Beasty’s new sashimi selection sees Big Glory Bay salmon paired with garlic, chive, basil and finger lime; market tuna elevated with wasabi cream; and Ruakaka kingfish accented by a touch of charred jalapeño. Each bite is vibrant, fresh, and utterly moreish.

Shokupan (Japanese Milk Bread)

Fluffy, feather-light and impossibly soft, Hello Beasty’s take on this cult classic comes with confit garlic, miso brown butter, and shio kombu. The bread melts in your mouth, while the rich, nutty butter and salty-umami notes offer an addictive depth of flavour. This is a must-order.

Crispy-Skin Pork Belly

A decadent dish of tender, crispy-skinned pork belly arrives with zesty celeriac kimchi, peppery perilla leaves, and a bold mustard kick — a dish that deftly balances richness with freshness and offers a truly unique take on a classic.

Korean BBQ Chicken

Back by (very) popular demand, Hello Beasty’s Korean BBQ Chicken makes a triumphant return this season. Served alongside chickpea, black garlic and sesame purée, with bright pickled cucumber yuzu and a burst of fresh turmeric, it’s every bit as delicious as you remember.

Shredded Confit Duck Okonomiyaki

Last, but certainly not least — a luxurious new spin on a Hello Beasty classic. This mung bean pancake, reimagined as a lighter, softer Japanese-style Okonomiyaki, is layered with confit duck, house-made spicy bulldog sauce, kewpie, kimchi and bonito — indulgent, comforting and irresistibly good.

hellobeasty.com

Gastronomy

Step inside The Vault: Gilt Brasserie’s luxe new private dining space
First Look: Masu’s new Express Lunch is refined, fast and full of flavour
These are the best seafood-centric dishes to seek out over the cooler months

Adorable Adornments — these are the chic and cutesy bag charms we’re stacking

Charm your admirers and festoon your carry-all with all manner of cute accessories for a truly personal touch.

Paris Fashion Week Street Style
Balenciaga Le City charm Eiffel keychain from Net-A-Porter
dog-shaped bag charm from Gucci
LV x TM Superflat bag chain from Louis Vuitton
Miu Ballet leather keychain trick from Ssense
Triomphe pom-pom keyring from Celine
Elephant charm from Bottega Veneta
Beau leather micro bag from Miu Miu
Myteak Bear bag charm from Max Mara

Leather keychain trick from Miu Miu

Coveted

Watch the Gucci’s Cruise 2026 fashion show via livestream, as the House heads back to its roots
Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
Met Gala 2025: Our guide to the best looks from the biggest night out in fashion
Elton John & Brandi Carlile

Heading away for the long weekend? Press play on these new albums and podcasts

When a road trip is on the cards, its prime time to give our go-to playlists a good old shake-up, and given how difficult it can be to wade through the multitude of new content in search of the best, we’ve decided to do it for you. From Lady Gaga’s return to Bon Iver’s luminous new album, to a raft of new podcasts that run the gamut of captivating content, we have rounded up a curation of everything to listen to now.

New Albums


Mayhem
Lady Gaga

One of the most highly anticipated releases of 2025, Lady Gaga’s eighth studio album, Mayhem, is a genre-blending exploration of her musical influences and life experiences. Created “from a place of happiness”, the album fuses diverse styles into an electrifying, transgressive pop journey. Featuring the Grammy-winning ‘Die with a Smile’ with Bruno Mars, along with singles Disease’ and ‘Abracadabra’, it showcases Gaga’s signature boldness, embodying her creative evolution.

Song to start with: Disease

Who Believes in Angels?
Elton John & Brandi Carlile

Elton John and American signer-songwriter Brandi Carlile have joined forces on a deeply personal, genre-defying album, Who Believes in Angels? With lyrics by Bernie Taupin and production by Andrew Watt, the record explores new creative territory for both artists, marking a fresh chapter in Elton’s legendary, ever-evolving career.

Song to start with: Who Believes in Angels?

Jennie
Ruby 

Inviting listeners on a deeply personal journey, Ruby marks Blackpink’s Jennie’s foray into solo artistry. Covering her time as a student in New Zealand to K-pop superstardom, the album blends genres and is brimming with emotion. Featuring the likes of Childish Gambino and Dua Lipa, and FKJ, its 15 tracks champion self-expression, confidence, and artistic freedom.

Song to start with: Mantra

Sable, Fable
Bon Iver

Marking a luminous new chapter for indie folk band Bon Iver, Sable, Fable blends radiant pop with raw introspection. Depicting a personal journey from solitude to love, the album juxtaposes past pain with newfound joy, embracing vulnerability and transformation through Justin Vernon’s most open, unguarded sound yet.

Song to start with: Awards Season

new Podcasts


The Spy Who

Taking listeners deep into the world of espionage, The Spy Who reveals the hidden stories of spies who risked everything. Hosted by Indira Varma and Raza Jaffrey, this gripping podcast blends immersive storytelling with real-life intelligence operations.

Human Intelligence

Naomi Alderman’s podcast challenges the notion that great minds think alike. This compelling series delves into the ideas of history’s most influential disruptors and teachers, offering sharp analysis and immersive storytelling that brings their brilliance to life.

Fashion Neurosis  

Bella Freud invites cultural icons to explore the deep connection between fashion and identity. Through candid, intimate conversations, guests reveal how style shapes self-expression, relationships, and society — proving fashion is far more than just superficial.

Middlebrow

In this pseudo-intellectual podcast, comedians Dan Rosen and Brian Park dissect modern culture, dating norms, and the status symbols of millennial pretension. Witty and self-aware, it’s for those who find quiet joy in the mid-point of high- and low-brow culture.

Culture

How to: Secure a Table
Why Denizen supports B416 in banning under-16s from social media
Spanning travel, art, and design, these coffee table tomes are seriously worth poring over
Azabu's menu has a large selection of gluten-free dishes

A Taste of Things to Come — According to the experts, flavour with flexibility is higher than ever on the agenda

With changing dietary preferences and growing awareness of food intolerances, Auckland restaurants continue to adapt, remaining highly mindful of allergies, and most venues appreciate advance notice so they can tailor dishes where possible. But while genuine dietary needs are always considered, many hospitality professionals express frustration over diners who are simply fussy for the sake of it. At least 22% of industry workers report regularly encountering guests who demand changes that compromise a dish’s integrity. Showing respect for the creativity that’s gone into creating the dish is paramount.

Vegan and vegetarian requests ranked lower than general fussiness, suggesting that plant-based dining has become so well integrated into menus that it’s no longer seen as a significant challenge. Most restaurants now offer thoughtful, plant-based options as standard, meaning requests for meat-free modifications have naturally declined.


We have created a specialty menu full of gluten-free options, so no one needs to miss out on our chef’s delicious food.

Emma Rogan, Co-Owner, Hello Beasty


Pacific cuisine typically emphasises meat and seafood. However, Chef Michael Meredith and I have just collaborated to develop a new vegetarian and vegan menu, available for both à la carte and tasting menus, that showcase the flavours of Pacific cuisine.

Arinut Sachdeva, Head Chef, Metita

Industry Insider


I’ve been at Bivacco since day one, and seeing our guests regularly return to our venue warms my heart the most. I appreciate their support and love for us, it means a lot! A must for our team is making our guests leave with a bigger smile and a memorable experience.

Anna Di Candia, Duty Manager, Bivacco

Gastronomy

Step inside The Vault: Gilt Brasserie’s luxe new private dining space
First Look: Masu’s new Express Lunch is refined, fast and full of flavour
These are the best seafood-centric dishes to seek out over the cooler months

Three ways to pay your respects this Anzac Day

Since 1939, The Dawn Service has been an enduring tradition in New Zealand come Anzac Day, serving as a way to honour those lost to the war, and acknowledge servicemen and women both returned and still serving. This year, whether you plan to attend a service locally or pay your respects in other ways, there are a number of events around the city to choose from — here are three great options. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.

An Evening of Moving Music on Anzac Eve at Kāhui St David’s

Thursday 24th April, 6.00pm — 8.00pm

On the eve of Anzac Day, St David’s is hosting an evening of musical performances in remembrance, also honouring the 28th Māori Battalion in this special event. In this new centre for music — Kāhui St David’s, there will be moving performances by musicians Horomona Horo (taonga pūoro), David Harvey (bagpipes), Ed Waaka (piano and vocal), Helen Lukman-Fox (pipe organ) and The Off Broadway Big in the newly restored, warm and glowing Great Hall.

The Auckland War Memorial Museum

Visit The Auckland War Memorial Museum

Friday 25th April, 6.00am—5.00pm

Following the Dawn Service, which kicks off at 6am and finishes at 6.45am — there is a choir performance within the grand foyer, and entry to the Museum is free for all on Anzac Day for those who wish to visit the commemorative galleries and to discover more about New Zealand’s history and involvement in WWI and WWII.

Anzac Day Service

Attend a Parade & Service Locally

Friday 25th April, from 6am

All across the city, there are remembrance events taking place, inviting a moment of pause, reflection, and giving of thanks to those who sacrificed for our country. Parades are kicking off at different intervals across the day, with services taking place at community venues — from churches to halls and rugby clubs, in many instances, followed by a get-together at the local RSA (who need support more than ever). Find where your local event is taking place here.

Culture

How to: Secure a Table
Why Denizen supports B416 in banning under-16s from social media
Spanning travel, art, and design, these coffee table tomes are seriously worth poring over
RITZ CARLTON SUITE

Putting on the Ritz — Our Editor-in-chief shares her experience staying at the Ritz-Carlton Melbourne

When our Editor-in-chief headed to Melbourne for the Australian Open, the recently opened Ritz-Carlton rolled out the red carpet.

It would be fair to say that in my decades-long career, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing some pretty fabulous hotels. But my recent stay at the Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne stands out as one of the finest, thanks to their complete mastery of my travelling trifecta: exquisite design, intuitive service and exceptional food and drinks.

Soaring 80 stories above the city, Ritz-Carlton offers unparalleled 360-degree views of Melbourne, from the majestic Dandenong Ranges to the sparkling waters of Port Phillip Bay. The moment I stepped out of the elevator and into the opulent lobby, I knew I was in for a special treat. 

Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne
Atria restaurant

In addition to the world-class amenities and impeccable service, the Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, is home to several exceptional dining experiences.

Of course, luxury isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about experience. The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne delivers on every level, not least when it comes to its exceptional dining. Perched on the 80th floor, Atria, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is a must-visit. Whether it’s an indulgent breakfast with a view or an elegant dinner showcasing the finest local, seasonal produce, every dish is a testament to refined taste. For an intimate celebration, Atria’s private dining room, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, is simply unbeatable.

Cameo Bar

Then there’s the Cameo Bar, also located on the 80th floor but with a coastal view. This supremely stylish bar offers a spectacular array of tantalising cocktails and a carefully curated selection of wines and champagnes.

Ritz-Carlton Executive Suite

Our room was a masterpiece of modern design, with floor-to-ceiling windows that framed the breathtaking views. The luxurious amenities and thoughtful touches, such as the curated minibar and the marble bathroom with a deep soaking tub, made us feel like we never needed to leave.

Club Lounge

For those who want to elevate their stay further — as if 80 floors above the ground is not enough—the Ritz-Carlton’s incredible Club facilities genuinely set it apart from any other hotel in the city. Offering a haven of tranquillity and indulgence, my husband and I spent many hours here, enjoying the continual array of delectable dishes and drinks, relaxing by the fireplace, or catching up on some work in the private library.

The highlight of the stay, however, was the spa. The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, is a sanctuary of serenity, with an extensive menu of treatments and therapies. Swimming as the sun dipped below the horizon was an unforgettable and truly magical experience.

The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne was nothing short of extraordinary. Everything was designed to create a truly memorable experience, from the impeccable service to the world-class amenities. If you plan a trip to Melbourne, look no further than the Ritz-Carlton. It’s the only place to stay for those of us who appreciate the finer things. And why wouldn’t you?

ritzcarlton/melbourne.com

Escape

Navigating the Extraordinary: Discover the world’s most exotic boat journeys
Fiji’s Nanuku Resort is the tropical oasis that should be on your 2025 travel list
The most hotly anticipated new hotel openings to have on your radar

We’ve got the ultimate SkyCity package up for grabs this Mother’s Day — worth over $1k

Gastronomic bliss and refined relaxation abound at SkyCity, and this Mother’s Day, the team have combined a number of the exceptional delights on offer at the precinct to create the ultimate celebration for mum. Lord only knows that what we all really want for Mother’s Day (aside from a hand-drawn card and breakfast in bed, of course) is a moment to ourselves to relax in peace and quiet — and here you’ll find exactly that. And some.

The Grand by SkyCity
East Day Spa

Come Sunday, May 11th (or any day the lucky winner wishes to redeem their prize), one lucky mum will be treated to a luxurious evening in a grand deluxe room at The Grand by SkyCity (complete with valet parking). While there, East Day Spa’s decadent two-hour ‘This Is For You’ package awaits — complete with a soothing 60-minute full body massage to melt away tension and restore calm from head to toe, and a rejuvenating East Day Spa x Augustinus Bader Methode Facial, featuring LED light therapy and a sculpting gua sha ritual to deeply nourish and refine Mum’s complexion. Following which, there will be a $250 dinner voucher (for two) at one of the award-winning restaurants located within The Grand by SkyCity — with the option to choose from Michael Meredith’s Metita, Sid Sahrawat’s Cassia, or long-time favourite MASU by Nic Watt.

We can definitively say that this is the perfect present for your mum or mother figure this Mother’s Day. Combining a hint of luxury, complete and total relaxation, and an exceptional dining experience to top it all off, at SkyCity, mum will find the much-needed escape she undoubtedly deserves.

Left: Masu by Nic Watt. Right: Cassia
Metita

This Mother’s Day, treat mum to truly unforgettable experience combining rest, relaxation, and a necessary spot of indulgence. Enter here.

Win the ultimate SkyCity package

*Read full terms and conditions here.

skycityauckland.co.nz

Gastronomy

Step inside The Vault: Gilt Brasserie’s luxe new private dining space
First Look: Masu’s new Express Lunch is refined, fast and full of flavour
These are the best seafood-centric dishes to seek out over the cooler months

Van Cleef & Arpels’ exhibition opens in Sydney, and our Editor-and-chief had an exclusive preview

For over a century, Van Cleef & Arpels has imbued its creations with movement — graceful, fluid, eternal. Now, in a landmark moment for Oceania, The Art of Movement: Van Cleef & Arpels, Living Instants, Eternal Forms brings this dynamic artistry to Sydney’s Watersedge at Campbell’s Stores from now until the 8th of May.

I was honoured to be one of the first to preview Van Cleef & Arpels The Art of Movement exhibition now on in Sydney. If you love exquisitely created jewellery with a fascinating history, then this free exhibition that features over 100 pieces from the storied Maison’s private collection is well worth a visit. The exhibition showcases Van Cleef & Arpel’s unparalleled craftsmanship and the evolution of jewellery design since their foundation in 1906.

The exclusive preview event showcased Van Cleef & Arpel’s affinity with classical music
As well as ballet
Julie Clody Medina, President of Asia Pascific, and Julie To, Managing Director of Oceania Julie Clody Medina, President of Asia Pascific, and Julie To, Managing Director of Oceania welcome guests

Ahead of the exhibition, we spoke with Alexandrine Maviel-Sonet, the Maison’s Director of Patrimony and Exhibitions, about her role in curating this exceptional showcase. “Movement, by nature ephemeral, is made eternal in jewellery,” she says. “Van Cleef & Arpels has always brought a touch of liveliness to its creations. In our collection, flowers are blooming, animals are facetious, and bows inspired by couture unfold in a loop — each piece captures a sense of motion, infused with wonder and poetry.” 

Each display included a combination of archival sketches
alongside the spectacular jewellery
Van Cleef & Arpels Five Flower set with Mystery Set rubies and diamonds (1951)
Van Cleef & Arpels Dancer clip (1992)
Van Cleef & Arpels Mystère IV Plane necklace (1956)
Van Cleef & Arpels Bird clip (1945)

Divided into four themes — Human Odyssey, Nature Alive, Elegance, and Abstraction — the exhibition reveals the Maison’s storied relationship with motion. “We spent six months selecting over 100 pieces that truly epitomise movement,” Maviel-Sonet shares. “The Silhouette clip, for instance, created in the 1930s, is at the crossroads of nature, couture, and abstraction as it represents both a bow and a flower in an abstract way, epitomising the Maison’s signature fluidity.”

Van Cleef & Arpels Art of Movement exhibition in Sydney

With sketches, gouache designs, and dazzling high jewellery on display, The Art of Movement offers an intimate look at Van Cleef & Arpels’ enduring pursuit of movement. “We hope visitors — through this specific exploration of the Van Cleef & Arpels creations — see jewellery as part of the decorative arts world, and as art in general, discovering the ingenuity of the craftsmen behind each piece.”

vancleefarpels.com

Coveted

Watch the Gucci’s Cruise 2026 fashion show via livestream, as the House heads back to its roots
Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
Met Gala 2025: Our guide to the best looks from the biggest night out in fashion