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.
Jervois Steak House has long set the standard for premium dining with a distinctly New Zealand soul. Known for its uncompromising approach to quality, provenance, and generosity, it’s where big flavours meet polished hospitality in a setting that’s both elevated and welcoming. The latest additions to the menu build on that legacy — seasonal, expressive, and designed to complement the classics.
Whether you’re here for the signature T-bone or something lighter with a twist, JSH continues to deliver with confidence and creativity. It’s the kind of place where tradition evolves — never rushed, always considered, and anchored in enduring, delicious substance.
Tuna Carpaccio
Delicate slices of tuna carpaccio are dressed with a punchy wasabi mayo and bright yuzu kosho, delivering heat, citrus, and umami in perfect harmony. Crispy rice adds texture and contrast, making this dish a vibrant, flavour-packed starter that’s both refined and refreshingly bold. A standout expression of modern Japanese flair.
Confit Duck Leg
Rich confit duck leg is paired with a buttery kumara fondant, its sweetness echoed in poached quince. A Grand Marnier jus adds citrus warmth and depth, cutting through the richness with elegance. Earthy, tender, and lightly spiced, it’s a decadent, cold-weather dish layered with texture, contrast, and seasonal charm.
Seared Scallops
Golden seared scallops take centre stage in this elegant dish, their sweetness amplified by a delicate green garlic and shallot medley. A silken Champagne butter sauce ties it all together, adding a hint of acidity and luxurious depth. Balanced, refined, and irresistibly rich, it’s a plate that captures the essence of early-season indulgence.
Jervois Steak House T-Bone
The Jervois Steak House 800g T-bone is a showstopper — Taupō-sourced, grass-fed beef, expertly charred and bursting with flavour. Make it your own with indulgent add-ons like seared scallops, bone marrow, or gorgonzola, and pair it with sides like duck fat potatoes or crayfish mac and cheese for pure, elevated decadence.
Grilled Black Tiger Prawns
Grilled black tiger prawns are flame-kissed for a smoky sweetness, then tossed in vibrant green harissa butter. A burst of citrus and a scatter of fresh herbs brighten the dish, balancing heat and richness. It’s bold, zesty, and irresistibly aromatic — with a spicy, herbaceous twist.
As the rhythms of modern life evolve, so too do the ways in which we fuel ourselves. At music festivals, exhibitions, and cultural gatherings, there’s a discernible shift underway: a collective pivot away from excess alcohol and synthetically-enhanced drinks towards something more conscious. Wellness is no longer a side note; it’s the headline act, and a new wave of functional beverages are taking centre stage.
Mānuka Phuel’s Big Buzz
Proudly crafted in New Zealand, Mānuka Phuel offers a novel kind of energy drink: clean, natural, and sustainably packaged. With a formula powered by naturally sourced caffeine, ginseng, guarana and the nation’s prized Mānuka honey, it delivers a refreshing, invigorating lift — without the synthetic aftertaste or dreaded slump.
First unveiled as the title sponsor at Synthony Festival, Mānuka Phuel’s Big Buzz cans fuelled festival-goers with sustained energy and unmistakable vibrancy. It was a fitting debut for a brand designed not just to energise the body, but the mind — inspiring us to further connect with culture and community.
In fact, music is more than a backdrop for Mānuka Phuel — it’s a driving force behind the brand’s ethos. From its debut at Synthony to its ongoing support of music-led events and emerging artists, Mānuka Phuel sees sound as a source of vitality. The brand champions music as both a creative catalyst and a unifying language — a natural amplifier for energy, connection, and expression. Whether it’s partnering with local DJs or sponsoring genre-bending performances, Mānuka Phuel aligns with music’s power to uplift, ignite, and transform.
“Our brand is deeply rooted in, and inspired by, culture, music and the arts, and we can’t wait to show our consumers what’s coming next. We’re all about phuelling the mind and body through experiences — Synthony 2025 was just the beginning of an epic journey with the creatives, creators and connectors of New Zealand and we’re excited to share what we’ve been working on in the music space,” says Alex McDonald, co-creator of Mānuka Phuel.
Berry Collagen Buzz
At a time when reduced alcohol consumption and a prioritisation of longevity are reshaping social habits, Mānuka Phuel arrives with perfect timing. Its commitment to pure ingredients and ethical sourcing speaks directly to Denizens seeking functional alternatives that support mind and body, even amid the high-energy setting of live music and artistic expression.
“At Mānuka Phuel, we believe in pushing the boundaries of innovation by crafting an energy drink that’s not just effective but truly natural. By only using the finest, all-natural ingredients, we’ve created a product that’s free from synthetics. This is a game-changer in the energy drink industry, where quality and nature come together to phuel your body and mind in the healthiest way possible,” continues Alex McDonald, co-creator of Mānuka Phuel.
With its distinctive yellow can and promises of more flavours to come — including Berry Collagen Buzz — Mānuka Phuel is carving a new path for mindful, functional refreshment.
In a world increasingly defined by what we choose to consume, Mānuka Phuel offers an energising answer: pure, powerful, and perfectly attuned to the spirit of now.
Cartier has unveiled its new Melbourne boutique at 90 Collins Street, marking a significant addition to the city’s luxury retail landscape. This boutique seamlessly blends the brand’s Parisian heritage with Australian artistry, creating an ambiance that reflects both the Maison’s unmistakable elegance and Melbourne’s vibrant local culture.
Designed by the Paris-based architectural firm Moinard Bétaille, the boutique features refined architectural details that exude Cartier’s signature sophistication. The interior showcases works by Australian artisans, including bespoke lighting installations and custom furnishings, which infuse the space with a distinct local character. These elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also pay homage to Australia’s rich cultural landscape. Throughout, botanical references nod to the nearby Victorian Botanical Gardens, while the boutique’s nature-inspired palette and considered accents speak to city’s distinct landscape.
Visitors can explore Cartier’s exquisite collections of jewellery, timepieces, and accessories within this thoughtfully curated environment. But it’s not just fine jewellery on show. On the newly built first floor, Cartier nods to Melbourne’s café culture with an in-house coffee bar — an elegant tribute to the city’s daily ritual. Just beyond, a private hospitality area offers champagne and bespoke cocktails, inviting guests to pause, linger, and take in the curated art and quiet luxury that defines this refined new space.
Cartier’s new Melbourne boutique stands as a testament to the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and cultural appreciation. By integrating local artistic elements and offering exceptional services, Cartier continues to redefine luxury retail in Australia.
Walker & Hall has long led the way when it comes to sourcing and supplying natural diamonds in New Zealand. At the heart of this legacy is director Joe Tattersfield, a GIA-certified gemmologist whose expertise ensures every diamond is selected with the utmost care and discernment.
Walker & Hall’s director, Joe Tattersfield
Natural diamonds are among Earth’s most remarkable creations. Formed billions of years ago under immense heat and pressure, they emerge as beacons of unparalleled brilliance. “To be able to touch something older than the dinosaurs; older than practically everything else you’d find in a museum, that came from so far down inside the Earth that it is roughly 17 times the height of Mount Everest — is just incredible,” says Tattersfield. Each diamond carries a story as old as time, making it not just a keepsake, but a connection to the past, present, and future.
“like purchasing an original artwork over a print… both might look lovely, but only one carries the depth, history, and soul of the real thing.”
No two natural diamonds are the same, and their individuality is defined by the 4Cs — cut, colour, clarity, and carat — but their true uniqueness lies in their natural inclusions. “Because every natural diamond forms under unique conditions, they each have individual characteristics known as inclusions. These tiny internal features are like a fingerprint; a testament to a diamond’s natural origin.” This singularity, Tattersfield notes, mirrors the human experience — each journey shaped by time and circumstance, impossible to replicate. “It’s a bit like purchasing an original artwork over a print. Both might look lovely, but only one carries the depth, history, and soul of the real thing.”
Walker & Hall’s commitment to natural diamonds extends beyond beauty. Long before responsible sourcing was standard, the company sought out diamonds with integrity. “Our diamonds are carefully selected from suppliers who comply with the Kimberley Process, ensuring our gems are ethically sourced and free from conflict.” Natural diamonds also provide economic benefits, particularly in regions like Botswana, where responsible mining has helped build schools, roads, and long-term infrastructure. “The socio-economic benefits have dramatically improved lives, not just for those in the industry, but for entire communities.”
Tattersfield’s expertise was honed at the Gemological Institute of America, the world’s leading authority on diamonds. This rigorous training ensures Walker & Hall’s diamonds are more than just well-graded — they are meticulously chosen for their brilliance and value. “You could be looking at two diamonds with identical gradings across the 4Cs — but the price could be 30% different. There is a reason for this, and we have the expertise to find diamonds that perform well optically while representing true value.”
Beyond monetary value, natural diamonds hold deep sentimental value too. “A natural diamond represents a connection to another person and their story,” says Tattersfield. “Yes, they hold intrinsic value due to their rarity and beauty, but their true worth often lies in the sentiment they carry.” Whether marking a milestone or passed through generations, these gems carry meaning far beyond their carat weight. “When you consider what objects in one’s life are cherished and handed down, nothing is more personal and symbolic than diamond jewellery.”
In a market saturated with alternatives, Walker & Hall remains steadfast in its commitment to authenticity. “We see diamonds as more than beautiful gemstones. They are symbols of love and legacy.” With every carefully curated piece, the brand continues to honour its heritage — one natural diamond at a time.
Not that we need another excuse to visit our favourite Viaduct Harbour stalwart, but nonetheless, Soul Bar & Bistro is giving us many. Running for the whole month of May, Soul has unveiled The Red Vault in collaboration with G.H. Mumm — a luxurious chest brimming with 31 days of excitement and surprises. Trust us when we say that this is a month-long event you don’t want to miss.
Whether you’re securing one of Soul’s harbourside tables for Mother’s Day (you know that’s in May, right?), a graduation or birthday celebration, casual drinks, or a cheeky midweek dinner, more than an exquisite meal awaits — you’ll also find the chance to see what’s hidden inThe Red Vault’s epic trove of surprises.
Highlights include Silk & Steel jewellery and vouchers, Dermalogica skincare, Dark Hampton accessories, Skintopia vouchers, Blush flowers, Rebe vouchers, The Beauty Chef products, and so many more covetable delights. Plus, a number of lucky diners might find themselves a Denizen magazine subscription.
So, why not book a table at Soul this weekend? Or, simply show up for an after-work drink or catch-up with friends. Making these increasingly cold days all the brighter, Soul’s The Red Vault is giving us every reason to celebrate the season.
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