Winter can be a time where literary inspiration is often lacking, but when we find ourselves ready to look for it again, leafing through a nearby coffee table book is always the next best muse. From the latest in Assouline’s travel series to books that impart the wisdom of designers who have shaped the world, these are the books you should add to your collection this winter.
A city of electric chaos and boundless creativity, Bangkok pulses with energy and an irresistible intensity. From bustling street food vendors to intricate Buddhist temples, it’s a place of contrasts — where spirituality meets non-stop movement, and tradition collides with modernity. From cutting-edge fashion to avant-garde dining, this dynamic portrait, guided by Simon Liberati, captures the city’s relentless vibrancy, cultural dynamism, and ever-evolving creative spirit.
Advertising in the 2000s reflected a world in flux — tech boomed, social media emerged, and brands embraced digital connectivity. iPods, reality TV, and online shopping reshaped culture, while wellness and personalisation gained traction. Spanning food, fashion, and entertainment, this book showcases a decade where ads didn’t just sell products — they captured a society in a period of radical change.
The New York-based design firm Torrey debuts its first monograph, celebrating Andrew Torrey’s transformative modernist interiors. Showcasing 23 projects across Manhattan, Miami, London, and beyond, this volume captures Torrey’s signature blend of clean-lined modernity, opulent finishes, and historical reverence. Featuring stunning photography, it’s an ode to contemporary glamour, effortless charm, and visionary design.
Step into the world of Valentino, where luxury and elegance reign supreme. This stunning volume chronicles the legendary couturier’s career through archival treasures — exquisite sketches, editorial spreads, iconic advertisements, and candid portraits. Offering a rare glimpse into Valentino’s creative brilliance, lifestyle, and legacy, this is a visual celebration of fashion’s ultimate maestro.
Discover the world’s most exclusive independent luxury hotels through this captivating visual journey. Showcasing over 70 legendary properties — from Norman Foster’s sinuous courtyard structure in Singapore to Jacques Garcia’s indulgent interiors in Paris — this exquisite volume celebrates unparalleled design and cultural richness. Featuring in-depth stories, expert insights, and contributions from iconic tastemakers, this is a curated tribute to the art of accommodation.
The visionaries behind the world-renowned jewellery brand David Yurman reveal their creative journey and shared personal history in this luxurious monograph, celebrating over 50 years of iconic design. Featuring never-before-seen sketches, artwork, and campaign imagery, this volume traces the brand’s rise from New York’s art scene to global acclaim — highlighting the duo’s most celebrated designs and their enduring artistic legacy.
Explore the captivating world of Hokusai, Japan’s pre-eminent artist, in this illuminating volume. From ethereal ghosts to the sweeping landscapes of Mount Fuji and the storied Tōkaidō road, his woodblock prints, paintings, and illustrations reveal extraordinary versatility. Featuring newly photographed artworks from over 100 institutions, this tome presents the most comprehensive portrait of Hokusai’s unparalleled artistic legacy to date.
At Queen’s Wineshop, the team like to think of themselves as the beguiling little entrance to the rooftop bar (Queens Rooftop) above, a place where you can slip away from the hustle and bustle of Te Komititanga Square and be gently spirited into another world. Inside, you’ll find an ever-evolving range of local and international wines and spirits, a cosy space filled with warm lighting, dark timbers, smooth tunes, and a team who truly loves helping you find your perfect bottle.
“We’ve curated our shelves with a wine for the people approach, catering to the wonderfully wide mix of people that call Auckland’s CBD home,” manager John Robertson tells me — whose deep roots in hospitality, from restaurants in London and Melbourne to the revered Blackhearts & Sparrows stores, give the shop its inviting tone. He and his team share an unpretentious knowledge and instinct for good drinking. If there’s no winemaker pouring in-store (a regular occurrence), there’s likely still something open, ready for a splash and a chat.
“Whether you’re after something special to celebrate, or it’s been a day and you just need something cheap and cheerful (hot tip: check out our School Night Wines basket), we’ve got you covered. Some bottles you’ll know you need, others you’re yet to discover.” says Robertson of the carefully curated offering.
Provenance is at the heart of the offering. “We work closely with our makers and suppliers to stock wines and spirits that speak of place and purpose. Every bottle has a story, and we’re here to help you find the one that deserves your attention right now.” Robertson tells me, adding, “We’re especially excited about the arrival of the Prophet’s Rock ‘Cuvée aux Antipodes’ Blanc, a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it release made from one small parcel of Chardonnay, crafted in collaboration with the legendary François Millet of Chambolle-Musigny. It’s a real unicorn.”
Whether you’re deep into your natural wine journey, or just after something easy and delicious for a glass after work, the edit here caters to all. Thirsty patrons are also welcome to grab a bottle to drink in ‘the cave’ — a cosy nook to the rear of the space. This is a perfect spot to park up ahead of a dinner in the city, or for an after work drink in a quiet corner.
Every Wednesday, you’ll find the team hosting free tastings from 5–7pm. “It’s our way of helping you welcome the second half of the week and wave goodbye to the first. We’ll have someone in store pouring something interesting — always delicious bottles — and sharing their stories along the way,” says Robertson. On the 14th of May, Angie from Blanc Distribution will be in store, pouring a selection from Australia’s Unico Zelo, including their final release of the coveted Mallee Gambit Nero d’Avola.
But, whenever you choose to visit, whether its to grab a bottle on the way home, attend a tasting, or sit down for a shared bottle with friends, you’ll always find something new and exciting to discover. Queens Wineshop may be small, but it’s building something big: a local hub for wine lovers and learners alike, where every bottle comes with a story.
If you’re planning an office event or drinks in the CBD, reach out to the team directly, and they’ll be happy to arrange complimentary delivery. They’ll ensure your guests stay refreshed with a custom selection of beverages tailored to your celebration. Just give them one working day’s notice, and they’ll handle the rest. Deliveries are available Monday — Friday, before 10.30am.
As the seasons shift, Soul Bar & Bistro embraces the change with a bold new menu that captures the essence of indulgent dining on Auckland’s waterfront. Crafted with the freshest local ingredients and a flair for flavour, the latest offerings celebrate comfort, creativity, and the vibrant produce of the cooler months. Whether you’re settling in for a long lunch with friends or a moody date night, expect warmth, generosity, and plenty of reasons to linger longer.
Goat Fromage
with Honey, Pear, Walnut & Chargrilled Bread
Creamy goat fromage meets sweet honey and poached pear, topped with crunchy walnuts and served with smoky chargrilled bread — a rich, balanced start that’s made for sharing.
Ricotta Tortelli
with Sunday Sauce & Calabrian Chilli
Silken ricotta tortelli bathe in a rich, slow-cooked Sunday sauce, lifted with a flicker of Calabrian chilli. Comforting, fiery, and utterly satisfying.
Yellowfin Tuna Tataki
with Kohlrabi, Soy and Mirin & Wasabi Aioli
Fresh yellowfin tuna tataki, perfectly paired with crisp kohlrabi, a soy and mirin glaze, and a kick of wasabi aioli — a vibrant, balanced dish with layers of bold, refreshing flavours.
Hawke’s Bay Lamb Rack
with Salt Baked Kumara, Marjoram Chimichurri & Hard Neck Garlic and Honey
Succulent Hawke’s Bay lamb rack is complemented by salt-baked kumara, marjoram chimichurri, and a sweet, savoury blend of hard neck garlic and honey in a hearty, rich dish with incredible depth of flavour.
Confit Duck Risotto
with Mushroom Duxelles & Craggy Range Pecorino
Confit duck risotto with mushroom duxelles, topped with Craggy Range pecorino. Creamy, savoury, and packed with rich, earthy flavours, this dish offers a perfect balance of texture and depth.
Market Fish
with Parsnip and Parmesan & Truffle Jus Gras
Market fish, served with silky parsnip and parmesan, drizzled with rich truffle Jus gras. A refined dish, showcasing the perfect harmony of delicate flavours and indulgent depth.
Vincent van Gogh, Wheat Fields with Reaper Auvers, 1890, oil on canvas, Toledo Museum of Art, Purchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is more than simply a gallery — it’s a place where ideas take shape, cultures converge, and the world opens up. With multiple levels of dynamic exhibitions, thought-provoking programming, and a world-class collection, it remains Aotearoa’s most inspiring visual arts experience. And now, it’s easier than ever to experience the best of it.
There are myriad options to immerse yourself further in the gallery’s vibrant year-round programme, with the best way to do so being a membership — granting unlimited entry to paid exhibitions, access to special events, discounts in the shop and café, and more. And the gallery’s newest membership option, Dual Membership, inspires not just cultural connection, but connection to a loved one, too.
Pat Hanly, Pacific Air Journey, 1977, Chartwell Collection, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, 1997. Photography by David St George
Auckland Art Gallery’s Dual Membership is a new offering for two people living at the same address — ideal for partners, flatmates, or close friends who want the freedom to explore the Gallery together or independently. Both members receive full access to the Gallery’s rich array of benefits, including free entry to all ticketed exhibitions (including this winter’s A Century of Modern Art, opening on the 7th of June), invitations to curator-led tours and previews, and use of the exclusive Members Lounge.
Dual members will also enjoy discounts at the café and Gallery shop, a subscription to Art Toi magazine, and regular updates to keep you connected to the city’s most vibrant cultural programme. A Dual Membership is available for $180 per year, or $270 with two guest passes — great for sharing your love of art with family or friends. This membership, or any on offer, are perfect as a meaningful gift for Mother’s Day, or for thoughtful gifting year-round.
From quiet solo visits to vibrant exhibition openings with a loved one, membership opens the door to richer cultural engagement, while supporting the Gallery’s vital work in our community — which is always a worthwhile pursuit.
From heartfelt dramas to feel-good comedies, these Mother’s Day picks celebrate every kind of mum. Whether you’re after laughter, tears, or total chaos (hi, multiverse), this mix of classics and modern gems offers something for every mood — and every mother-daughter dynamic. Settle in and press play.
Mother’s Day
A feel-good ensemble film following several interconnected stories, all centred around motherhood. Starring Hollywood heavyweights Jennifer Anniston, Kate Hudson, and Julia Roberts (among others), expect emotional twists, light-hearted laughs, and a glossy celebration of modern family dynamics.
Stepmom
A powerful tearjerker starring Julia Roberts and Susan Sarandon, exploring the evolving relationship between a terminally ill mother and her children’s future stepmother. Heartfelt, raw, and deeply moving.
Freaky Friday
When a mother and daughter magically switch bodies, chaos — and understanding — ensues. A hilarious, heartwarming look at generational disconnect, featuring standout performances from Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan.
The Parent Trap
Twins separated at birth reunite at summer camp and hatch a plan to get their parents back together. A charming, nostalgic tale of sibling mischief and second chances.
Lion
Based on a true story, this emotional journey follows a boy separated from his mother in India and his determined search to find her years later. Moving and unforgettable.
Anywhere But Here
Tender, tense, and full of soul, Susan Sarandon and Natalie Portman shine as a mismatched mother and daughter duo who move to Beverly Hills in pursuit of new dreams.
Miss Juneteenth
A former beauty queen guides her daughter through a Texas pageant, confronting expectations, ambition, and sacrifice. A quietly powerful story of legacy, motherhood, and resilience.
Mamma Mia
Sunshine, ABBA hits, and a wedding on a Greek island — this musical romp is a celebration of love, freedom, and the unavoidable chaos of family.
Monster-in-Law
When a bride-to-be meets her future mother-in-law, sparks fly — and not the good kind. Jennifer Lopez and Jane Fonda face off in this sharp, over-the-top comedy about boundaries, sabotage, and winning your place in the family.
The Meddler
After her husband’s death, a well-meaning mother inserts herself into her daughter’s life with hilarious — and surprisingly touching — consequences. A gentle, witty story of healing and hope.
Everything Everywhere All At Once
A Chinese-American mother is flung into a mind-bending multiverse battle while trying to reconnect with her daughter. Absurd, brilliant, and deeply emotional — Everything Everywhere All At Once is a wild ride through motherhood and meaning.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
Culture clashes and overbearing relatives collide in this beloved rom-com about love, identity, and the hilarity of big family dynamics with a delightful side of all Greek everything. Endearing, quotable, and full of heart.
Bridget Jones’s Baby
Our favourite hapless heroine faces motherhood — and a paternity mystery. Witty, romantic, and endearingly awkward, this late-series gem delivers laughs and a satisfying grown-up glow-up.
Bad Moms
Three overstretched mothers ditch perfectionism for rebellion in this raucous comedy about self-liberation, margaritas, and PTA mayhem. Chaos ensues — with plenty of laughs and unapologetic honesty.
What to Expect When You’re Expecting
Five couples navigate pregnancy’s unpredictability in this ensemble comedy. From adoption to surprise twins, it’s a heartwarming, often hilarious look at the rollercoaster of impending parenthood.
Knocked Up
A one-night stand leads to an unexpected pregnancy, forcing a mismatched pair to grow up fast. Smart, crude, and surprisingly sweet, this comedy finds laughs in life’s biggest curveballs.
Basekin is bringing its skin-loving Tan+Hydrate Serum to our shores just in time for the cooler months ahead. Founded by two Kiwis, born from their own personal experiences, the brand blends clean, conscious skincare with 100% natural DHA for a radiant, buildable glow.
Powered by hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and antioxidant-rich vitamins C and E, this multitasking serum hydrates, nourishes, and tans in one effortless step. Basekin is a brand with a skinimalist ethos — fewer products, better ingredients, and a sun-kissed finish without compromise.
Here, we sit down with co-founders Lucy Caldwell and Bella Ireland to discuss their ‘why’ behind Basekin, how to best use the product, and what comes next.
Q&A
with co-founders Lucy Caldwell and Bella Ireland
Co-founders of Basekin Bella Ireland (left) and Lucy Caldwell (right)
Tell me about how Basekin came about, what inspired the idea?
Lucy: Basekin started in a pretty honest, personal way. I was pregnant, and like so many women, I started looking more closely at what I was putting on my skin. I’ve always been a self- tan girl — I grew up with fair skin, a lot of moles, and a family history of melanoma, so the sun was never really an option. But suddenly, I was reading ingredient lists and realising how many fake tans were packed with things I didn’t feel good about using daily. And beyond that, none of them felt like they belonged next to the rest of my skincare — they smelled weird, felt sticky, and didn’t match the standard I had for everything else I was using. That’s when it hit me: why should tanning feel like a separate category? Why couldn’t it be skincare too?
Bella: Around the same time, I was deep in work life, long hours, events, barely holding a routine together and constantly breaking out. My skin was reactive, and anything heavy or overly fragranced would just make it worse. But I still wanted to look alive, like I’d had eight hours sleep and a beach holiday. We kept coming back to this idea of a shortcut – a product that gave you that glow, but actually supported your skin, not sabotaged it. We didn’t want something complicated or overly “cosmetic” just something chic, effective, and genuinely easy to use. That was the moment Basekin started to take shape.
What happened from there, what steps did you take to bring the brand to life?
Lucy: Once the idea landed, we became a bit obsessed. We started pulling apart ingredient lists from traditional self-tanners to our go-to skincare and asking the obvious question: why had tanning been left behind? Everything still felt like the same old sticky mousse, overpowering fragrance, or synthetic DHA drops. We knew from the start that we didn’t want to create just another version of what was already out there.
Bella: We teamed up with an incredible Australian formulator and spent over a year developing a formula that would actually do something for your skin, not just tint it. It had to feel like a serum, not a tan. We used 100% natural DHA and layered in actives like Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and Vitamin C – ingredients we already trusted and loved. We tested it obsessively, on ourselves, friends, and family, refining until it felt like something we were genuinely proud to use. I remember the day when I said to Lucy, “We need to make this work, because I genuinely cannot live without this product.” From there, every part of Basekin, the feel, the formula, the tone, came back to one question: would we reach for this every day?
Why was it important to you to blend skincare with self-tan?
Lucy: For me, tanning always felt like the one step in my routine that didn’t match the rest. I’d invest in great skincare — actives, serums, ingredients that supported my skin — and then ruin it with a product that felt heavy, synthetic, and off-brand for everything else I was using. It just didn’t make sense. Skincare has evolved so much, but tanning hadn’t caught up. It shouldn’t be something that undoes all the good you’ve done for your skin, it should add to it.
Bella: There are definitely tan-drop products on the market, but most of them still felt like a compromise as they’re either too drying, too heavily fragranced, or not something I’d trust on sensitive, breakout-prone skin. I was constantly adjusting formulas to make them work better, mixing them into serums I actually liked. We wanted to cut that extra step and create something that was truly skincare-first, not an afterthought. Basekin isn’t just a tan with a little hydration thrown in. It’s a formula built from the ground up to support your skin and deliver a natural glow all in one pump.
The word ‘clean’ has been a bit contentious in years gone by. With Basekin, what does ‘clean’ mean to you?
Bella: We get why the word ‘clean’ can feel loaded as it’s been overused and underdefined. But for us, it really just comes down to being intentional. Every ingredient in Basekin is there for a reason, and we’re transparent about why it’s in the formula. It’s about using what works, leaving out what doesn’t, and respecting your skin in the process.
Lucy: For me, it was about being able to use something daily without overthinking it. During pregnancy, I found myself reading every label and questioning everything I put on my skin, and tanning products just didn’t make the cut. With Basekin, we cut out anything unnecessary or irritating. No synthetic DHA, no fragrance, no fillers. Clean, to us, means it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin, safe enough to use while pregnant, and still delivers real, skin-loving results.
How do you suggest using the product within a skincare routine?
Bella: We really designed it to fit into the kind of routine we actually have and that’s quick, a bit chaotic, but still intentional. I apply 1–2 pumps after cleansing, like I would any serum, then follow with moisturiser or SPF. It sinks in fast and doesn’t mess with anything else I’m using, which makes it easy to stay consistent.
Lucy: You can use it either way, sometimes I apply it at night, but if I’ve forgotten, I’ll throw it on in the morning as I’m heading out the door. Then I’ll catch myself in the mirror later, looking fresh without a drop of makeup. I find 1–2 pumps goes a long way as it covers my face and décolletage and gives that soft, everyday golden tone. If I’ve got something on like an event or drinks with the girls, I’ll use 3–4 pumps the night before for a bit more colour. It’s buildable, so you can tailor it to whatever you’ve got going on.
Who are you hoping to reach with the product, and what are you hoping to do for those people?
Bella: Basekin is for people like us who want skincare that fits their lifestyle and leaves them looking fresh and golden without overcomplicating things. It’s for the busy, the burnt out, the ingredient-conscious.
Lucy: I think we’ve both been through seasons where our skin felt tired, our routines felt too hard, and we just wanted one product to make us feel a bit more pulled together. Whether you’re postpartum, time-poor, or just totally over high-maintenance beauty, Basekin gives you a moment of ease, and a bit of confidence, without the effort. It’s not about transformation. It’s about giving your skin what it needs to look and feel its best every day.
Basekin is pregnancy-safe, which is near-impossible to find in a self-tanner. Can you explain to expecting mums why the product is safe for mums-to-be, and why this was important to you?
Lucy: This one’s really personal for me. When I was pregnant, I started looking at every ingredient I was putting on my skin and I couldn’t find a single tanning product I felt good about using. So many of them were packed with synthetic DHA, fragrance, or additives that just didn’t sit right. That was a huge part of why Basekin started as I wanted something I could use daily, without second-guessing it.
Bella: We were really clear from day one that the formula had to be safe enough for sensitive and hormonal skin, pregnancy included. We worked closely with our formulator to make sure everything passed that test. We use 100% natural DHA, no synthetic fragrance, no known irritants. The formula is gentle, hydrating, and supports your skin rather than stressing it so it’s not just safe, it’s genuinely good for your skin through every stage.
What does the future look like for the brand? Any additional products in the pipeline?
Bella: We’re just getting started. There are definitely more products in the pipeline but we’re doing it slowly and thoughtfully. We’re not interested in launching for the sake of it. Everything we create has to earn its place and genuinely serve a purpose. It’s about building a tight edit of essentials that work hard and make sense.
Lucy: We’ve always said: fewer steps, better skin. That’s the filter we use for every decision. Anything we bring out next will follow the same Basekin philosophy — skincare-first, multitasking, gentle, and easy to slot into real routines. No fluff or fillers, just products that make your skin feel better.
Anything else you’d like to communicate about Basekin?
Lucy: We built Basekin because the products we wanted didn’t exist. Self-tan always felt like an afterthought in a skincare routine and something you had to work around, not with. We wanted something that felt elevated but effortless, that fit into our routines without overcomplicating them. It’s not about doing more, it’s about doing less, better.
Bella: For us, Basekin is just as much about how you feel as how you look. That subtle shift when your skin’s hydrated, even-toned, and you don’t need makeup to feel ready. We hear it from customers all the time — “I caught myself in the mirror and felt good.” That’s the energy we’re here for. Thoughtful formulas, fewer steps, and skin that looks like yours, just a little more golden.
This season, lean into the warm embrace of earthy tones. From comforting caramels to modern mochas, these are the shades of brown the experts at Resene recommend using in your home.
In a world increasingly seeking connection and comfort, earthy tones are finding their way into our most design-led spaces — offering a grounding embrace. Brown has long been an elevated neutral, and the sophisticated shades coming through in 2025 evoke the timeless elegance of earth-toned interiors — balancing nostalgia with modernity to effortlessly weave into contemporary design narratives.
Here, the experts at Resene guide us on how to employ the most harmonious of shades in our homes this autumn.
More than simply a trending colour, mocha-toned browns — whether enveloping a space in cocooning warmth or serving as a refined neutral alongside textural materials — imbue homes with a sense of comfort and relaxation not afforded to beige.
For those looking to create depth and vibrancy, pair lighter, mocha-toned shades like Resene’s Lone Ranger with accents of caramel and ivory; for drama, contrast the likes of Resene Bark with charcoals and inky blues. The beauty of this versatile colour is its ability to elevate without overpowering, making it as fitting for a plush, curated living space as it is the sleek minimalism of a contemporary bedroom.
Its grounding essence makes it a compelling alternative to traditional neutrals, offering depth without darkness; warmth without weight, and slotting seamlessly into any space and any aesthetic vision.
The first Monday in May carries special meaning for the fashion set, marking the most significant event on the calendar — the Met Gala.
Inaugurated as an annual fundraising gala for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, the Met has become synonymous with outrageous outfits and iconic celebrity moments. It is an event that has come to capture the imagination of even those completely uninterested in fashion or glamour. And while almost every notable figure in Hollywood receives an invite, from style icons to actors and musicians, we are left to look on from home — taking on the role of fashion critic to dissect the outfits of those in attendance.
Each year guests are asked to dress to a theme reflecting that of the Costume Institute’s exhibition, and this year, it’s the new exhibition inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book Slaves to Fashion, which set the tone — delving into the cultural significance of tailored garments in shaping Black identities across the Atlantic diaspora. The associated dress code was ‘Tailored for You’, highlighting the artistry of Black dandyism, showcasing how Black individuals have historically used fashion as a form of self-expression and resistance.
Notable attendees, including co-chairs Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams, honoured the theme with bespoke ensembles that paid homage to the rich tradition of Black sartorial elegance.
Here, we round up all the best looks from this year’s ‘first Monday in May,’ each of which showcases why this event has become the most significant on the global fashion calendar.
Jenna Ortega Wearing custom Balmain
Walton Goggins wearing custom Thom Browne
Helen Lasichanh and Pharrell Williams Wearing Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co.
Laura Harrier Wearing custom Gap Studio
Hailey Bieber Wearing custom Saint Laurent & Tiffany & Co.
Anne Hathaway Wearing Carolina Herrera and Bulgari
Henry Golding wearing Oswald Boateng and Cartier
Nicole Kidman Wearing custom Balenciaga Couture
Rihanna Wearing custom Marc Jacobs
A$AP Rocky Wearing custom Awge and Briony Raymond umbrella
Lewis Hamilton Wearing custom Wales Bonner
Sydney Sweeney Wearing custom Miu Miu
Zendaya Wearing custom Louis Vuitton
Callum Turner and Dua Lipa Wearing Chanel
Bad Bunny Wearing custom Prada
Suki Waterhouse wearing michael kors
Kendall Jenner Wearing Torishéju and Chopard
Adut Akech wearing custom Swarovski
Rosé Wearing custom Saint Laurent
Andre 3000 Wearing custom Burberry
Alex Consani Wearing custom Swarovski
Gabrielle Union-Wade and Dwyane Wade Wearing custom Prada
Patrick Schwarzenegger wearing custom Balmain
Gigi Hadid Wearing custom Miu Miu
Miley Cyrus Wearing Alaïa and Cartier
Nick Jonas wearing Bianca Saunders and Tiffany & Co. & Priyanka Chopra Wearing Balmain and Bulgari
Demi Moore wearing Thom Brown
Sofia Richie Wearing custom Tommy Hilfiger
Zoe Saldaña Wearing Thom Browne
Pusha T Wearing Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co.
Jeff Goldblum Wearing custom Wales Bonner & Swarovski brooch
Kylie Jenner Wearing custom Ferragamo
Miranda Kerr Wearing custom Christian Dior and Tiffany & Co.
Anna Sawai Wearing custom Christian Dior and Cartier
My mum was a big proponent of celebration — in any way, shape, or form, and as a result, Mother’s Day (and any and every other excuse to pop the Champagne and enjoy delicious food) was relished with fervour in our household. Mum is no longer with us, but as I am now a mother myself, the tradition remains: on Mother’s Day — we go big. Luckily for me (and all of you), Auckland has no shortage of exceptional happenings to make the day extra special and inspire indulgence. From opulent high teas to thoughtfully curated special menus, convivial brunches, Champagne specials and more — here, we round up the very best ways to celebrate in style this Mother’s Day.
Mother’s Day Dining
Anchovy en Croutes (back) & Kingfish Crudo (front) from Bistro Saine
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Bistro Saine, where thoughtful details elevate the experience. From a sparkling welcome to a parting gift of exquisite chocolates, enjoy an afternoon of refined dining in a locale where good taste is always in season.
Trust the chef across both of Azabu’s venues this Mother’s Day with an Omakase set menu designed especially for the occasion by executive chef Darren Johnson, including a selection of Azabu favourites. They’ve got the kids covered too, with the award winning kids menu including a bento box with a choice of steak, chicken or fish, hand rolled sushi, dumplings and fried rice.
Celebrate mum with Esther’s High Tea — a chic, retro-inspired afternoon where culinary curiosities meet Mediterranean flair. Forget finger sandwiches; think edible art, a tea menu fit for royalty, and nostalgic bites with a glamorous twist. Plus, mums are welcomed with a complimentary glass of Perrier-Jouët Champagne. Treat your queen to a celebration that’s bold, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable.
This Mother’s Day, treat mum to a long lunch at kingi. Enjoy a welcome glass of bubbles or a kingi spritz, followed by a spread of antipasti and your choice of pan-roasted snapper, chickpea farinata, or confit duck leg — all for $75 per person. Add Pacific oysters and a decadent dessert for an extra-special touch.
Spoil Mum in sparkling style this Mother’s Day at Andiamo. On Sunday 11th May, the Hene Bay stalwart is opening early (from 11am) to celebrate with a decadent three-course set menu ($99pp), complete with a flute of G.H.Mumm Cordon Rosé Champagne on arrival. Choose from delicious starters, indulgent mains, and a sweet dolce to finish. There’s also a kids’ menu available for the littles.
This Mother’s Day, honour Mum with an unforgettable Japanese dining experience. From 5–9pm, savour all your à la carte favourites, plus exclusive specials like a delicate sashimi flower selection with wafu dressing, ginger gel and mandarin, and premium Japanese Wagyu at $85 per 100g. A beautiful way to celebrate the most important woman in your life.
Celebrate your leading ladies at Ayrburn with a dining experience as special as they are. Choose from High Tea at The Bakehouse, a luxurious lunch at The Woolshed, a set menu in The Manure Room, or an epic escape in The Barrel Room. With options for every style of mum, Ayrburn is the perfect place to show how much mum means to you.
Treat Mum to an elegant French-inspired feast at Origine this Mother’s Day. Choose from a refined menu of canapés, two or three seasonal courses, and indulgent desserts — think kingfish with basil sorbet, braised lamb with garden carrots, and a decadent chocolate-raspberry éclair. With sweeping views and flawless flavours, it’s a beautiful way to celebrate the woman who does it all.
Mother’s Day at Ki Māha offers a stunning three-course feast for $79pp, including complimentary bubbles. Choose from delicacies like kingfish sashimi, venison tartare, or burrata with basil oil, followed by a choice of market fish with yuzu butter and poached squid, truffle lamb rump, or saffron agnolotti. End with a delectable roasted pineapple dish for dessert. If you’re looking to elevate your experience further, opt for indulgent add-ons, including Wagyu croquettes, oysters, or a bump of caviar.
Celebrate Mum with an unforgettable experience at Huami. Enjoy a leisurely Yum Cha lunch from 11.30am, featuring hand-crafted dim sum, or gather for a sharing-style dinner from 5.30pm, with an à la carte menu of authentic Chinese dishes. Whether it’s a relaxed afternoon or an elegant evening, Huami sets the perfect scene to show Mum just how much she’s loved.
Gather the family for a special Sunday Roast this Mother’s Day. Begin with house-made sourdough, whipped brown butter, and fire-roasted kumara hummus, before a feast of roast lamb with all the classic trimmings. Finish on a sweet note with sticky toffee pudding and petit fours. At $75 per person, it’s a perfect, low-key way to celebrate Mum over a beautifully crafted meal (that she hasn’t had to cook).
Treat Mum to a waterfront High Tea at Saint Alice this Mother’s Day. From 12–4pm, enjoy a spread of delicious bites for $50 per person, all served with stunning harbour views. Want to make it even more special? Add a glass of Moët & Chandon for just $20.
Celebrate Mum in style this Mother’s Day at SOUL. From 11am–10pm, enjoy a specially crafted 3-course menu by Executive Chef Gavin Doyle, featuring both classic favourites and exciting new dishes. For those who prefer the full SOUL experience, the à la carte menu will also be available. At $75 per person ($25 for kids), it’s the perfect way to show Mum just how special she is.
Spoil Mum with a morning to remember at Advieh. Their Mother’s Day breakfast pairs a refined continental spread with indulgent à la carte options — think maple waffles, house-smoked pastrami Benedict, and signature Turkish eggs. Thoughtful, flavourful, and beautifully presented — it’s the ultimate start to her day.
Celebrate Mum with Cāntīng’s convivial Bottomless Brunch Yum Cha this Mother’s Day. Enjoy free-flowing drinks, flavour-packed dim sum, vibrant starters and signature dishes in a fun, festive setting. Little ones are treated too, with bottomless sodas just for them. It’s the perfect way to toast the most important woman in your life.
Celebrate Mum with the return of Toana’I at Metita, a heartfelt feast of love and tradition. Inspired by Michael Meredith’s mother, Metita offers a menu reflecting her profound influence. Enjoy live entertainment by Manoah Pickering and a special treat for Mum to take home. Available from 12pm–4pm (last booking 2.30pm), at $95 per adult and $50 per child.
At Jervois Steak House this Mother’s Day you’ll find a specially crafted two-course set menu ($79pp) available from 12pm–4pm. Enjoy seasonal entrées and premium cuts, with a signature side to complete the experience. For dinner, the eatery’s full à la carte menu is available from 5pm. A kids’ menu also on offer for mini diners.
At Onslow, you’ll find an unforgettable dining experience this Mother’s Day. From 11am–7pm, indulge in a special four-course menu ($140pp) featuring treats, your choice of starter, main, and dessert. For younger guests (12 and under), a bespoke $70 set menu is available. End the celebration with beautiful cakes and petit fours. Plus, the first 70 mothers to book will receive a 50ml Embodyme Nurturing Body Oil for the perfect touch of self-care.
If the way to mum’s heart is through her stomach, then wine and dine her at NSP this Mother’s Day, enjoying the beloved eatery’s new long lunch menu (for $55 per person) or her favourite dish from the à la carte menu. Enjoy a highlight of new seasonal dishes and long time classics, Mother’s Day cocktails, and flowing champagne, while the perfect Bambini menu sees that the kids are covered too. Bellissimo.
Treat Mum to a culinary journey through Aotearoa this Mother’s Day. From 5pm–9.30pm, enjoy a selection of sharing dishes from the à la carte menu, featuring the best of New Zealand’s pastures and sustainably caught seafood. End the evening with a special Mother’s Day dessert, crafted to make the occasion even more memorable. A perfect way to celebrate with a taste of home.
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