Commercial Bay is dialling up the flavour this July with the launch of the Fork & Fame Awards — a month-long celebration of the culinary brilliance bubbling away inside its hawker-style food hall, Harbour Eats. With 25 vendors dishing up everything from bao buns to burgers and birria, this is your official excuse to turn after-work cravings, pre-show snacks, and weekend catch-ups into a full-blown dining experience.
Running from now until Thursday 31st July, the inaugural Fork & Fame Awards will crown the must-try bites across six delightfully themed categories — think “Bang for Buck”, “Save Room for Dessert” and “Don’t Wear White”. Bringing their expertise to the fore to crown the winners, a panel of discerning judges — from MasterChef NZ winner Sam Low to esteemed chef Gareth Stewart — will be making their way around Harbour Eats, diving in fork-first to uncover the very best this culinary melting pot has to offer.
Oji Sushi
A number of sponsors including Pic’s Peanut Butter and Best Foods Mayo have also come on board to further inspire creativity, with two deliciously creative awards getting vendors like Wise Boys and Ben & Jerry’s crafting limited-edition dishes for the occasion — each of which is available to indulge in throughout the month.
Wise Boys burger
And of course, the people also get a say. Scan a QR code while you’re dining or headhereto vote for your favourite dish in the People’s Choice Award. Every vote puts you in the draw to win lunch for a year—a $5,000 Commercial Bay food voucher that will have you eating better than ever.
Consider this your invitation to revisit your favourites, or discover something new — we know we’ll be indulging. To help you on your way, we’ve rounded up a handful of our go-to dishes below, each of which is more than worthy of a People’s Choice award (and a place in your dining agenda).
An increasing appetite for the golden days of slow travel is deeply rooted in nostalgia for a bygone era. Gentle journeys aboard exquisitely furnished carriages that traverse picturesque villages and magical vistas are experiencing a long overdue renaissance.
Europe
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Positioned firmly at the top of many travel bucket lists, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is an icon of luxury travel. An heir of the legendary original Orient Express, luxury hoteliers Belmond has expertly revived this historic train, offering more than just a passage through Europe’s breathtaking landscapes, but a portal to an era of unparalleled glamour and romance. Whether it’s a decadent two-night escape or a more leisurely four-night sojourn, imagine gliding through the romantic canals of Venice, the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps, or the charming French countryside, all from the plush comfort of this moving palace.
Cabin Suite
L’OBSERVATOIRE SUITE
GRAND SUITE
“Onboard, time slows, inviting you to savour exquisite cuisine, unwind in luxurious cabins, and lose yourself in the melodies of the grand piano in the bar carriage as night falls.”
From the meticulously restored 1920s carriages, adorned with polished wood and lustrous fabrics, to the bespoke service and the convivial hum of the Champagne bar, every detail celebrates a bygone era of elegance, seamlessly blended with modern comfort.
Dining Room
In-room dining service
Onboard, time slows, inviting you to savour refined cuisine, unwind in luxurious cabins, and lose yourself in the melodies of the grand piano in the bar carriage as night falls. Lean into the experience and pack an exquisite wardrobe, with white tie and gowns seeming appropriate.
A far cry from Japan’s infamous Bullet trains, southern Japan’s Seven Stars train is a luxurious, exclusive locomotive that accommodates just 20 guests. The train’s interior has been meticulously crafted by expert local artisans, from hand-carved beds, bathroom sinks, detailed woodwork, and porcelain dinner plates, affording guests an intimate experience with the very best of Japan’s revered craftsmanship.
“The train travels around Kyushu, stopping at renowned shrines, onsens, porcelain studios, and other cultural attractions, presenting passengers with a truly authentic experience far from typical tourist destinations.”
Deluxe Suite
Traditional Cuisine on board
On board entertainment
The train travels around Kyushu, stopping at renowned shrines, onsens, porcelain studios, and other cultural attractions, presenting passengers with a truly authentic experience far from typical tourist destinations. Perfect for those wanting to be utterly immersed in Japanese nostalgic culture, this is a once-in-a-lifetime, bucket list journey that requires entering a lottery to secure a coveted room on.
Prepare to rediscover the soul of Britain aboard the Britannic Explorer, Belmond’s inaugural first-of-its-kind luxury sleeper train exclusively traversing England and Wales’ diverse and captivating landscapes. Departing from London, choose a three-night immersion into the dramatic coastlines and artistic havens of Cornwall, the breathtaking glacial valleys and shimmering lakes of the Lake District, or Wales’ ancient, myth-laden hills and vibrant culture.
On Board Restaurant
“Within its elegant blue carriages lie 18 exquisite suites, promising an intimate experience blending timeless rail heritage with contemporary British flair.”
On Board Bar
Dedicated Wellness Suite
Entertainment Area
Within its elegant blue carriages lie 18 exquisite suites, promising an intimate experience blending timeless rail heritage with contemporary British flair. Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan crafts seasonal menus inspired by these unique regions, enjoyed in dining cars mirroring the beauty outside, while a botanically-infused bar and dedicated wellness suite enhance the journey.
GRAND SUITE
Curated off-train excursions offer deeper immersion into the UK’s cultural and natural highlights, from Cornish boat tours to Lake District hikes and Welsh historical site tours.
Both Azabu Ponsonby and Azabu Mission Bay have long been known for serving up some of the best food in town, and while the two outposts are distinct, the signature blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavours across both hit the mark every time. Here at Denizen, we’re long-standing members of the Azabu fan club, and were thrilled to discover that both eatery’s menus have been refreshed for the season ahead.
Azabu Ponsonby
We were fortunate enough to preview the new dishes ourselves this week, and can say with conviction that this is an occasion worth celebrating. While firm favourites still remain (yes, including the volcano sushi roll), there are a raft of new dishes — dreamt up by the clever team in the kitchen — sure to satisfy.
Across both venues, additions include new sashimi and sushi rolls, inspiring you to shake up your usual order. From spicy salmon tartar with crispy rice and wakame and tuna tataki with rocoto ponzu and blackened avocado on the sashimi front, to salmon and tempura prawn maki with cucumber, spicy mayo and teriyaki sauce, and vegetarian miso tofu with pickled daikon, spring onion, cucumber, and wasabi carrot rolls — there is plenty to make your way through, many of which are set to become instant classics.
Popcorn Shrimp
New small plates comprise indulgent yet light popcorn prawn tempura with chilli yuzu mayo, lemon, and wasabi pea furikake, beef tataki with garlic, ginger, chilli ponzu, braised shiitake and radish, chicken and prawn dumplings with chilli vinegar soy and spring onion, and moreish beef and ginger gyoza with Szechuan soy and pickled cucumber.
chicken and prawn dumplings with chilli vinegar soy and spring onion
One stand-out main is also joining the fold — a crisp, tender pork belly paired perfectly with ginger apple puree, soy caramel, red cabbage, cucumber, coriander, and lime soy. This particular creation is a delight, and is not to be missed.
A smattering of delectable sides also join the menu, including an unexpectedly delicious braised cabbage with kombu soy butter and green mayo, alongside a seasonal grilled baby gem with black vinegar sesame dressing, radish, spring onion and nori, and a warming steamed broccoli served with tobanjan dressing and sesame cream. Sublime.
Looking to shake up girls night and try something new? Swap your usual dinner plans for something unexpected, a little bit extra, and seriously unforgettable — a night at the theatre, dressed to the nines, with Shakespeare’s most iconic love story as the backdrop.
Auckland Theatre Company’s rendition of Romeo & Juliet is anything but traditional. Reimagined as a whip-smart thriller set in the style-saturated 1960s, this breathless take on the Bard’s best-known play is a feast for the senses — and the ultimate excuse to get dressed up and make a night of it. Think: Missoni, Pucci, and heartbreak at high speed. The styling is a scene-stealer in itself — bold, cinematic, and brimming with mod-era glamour.
Romeo & Juliet
Set in sun-drenched 1960s Verona, Italy, director Benjamin Kilby-Henson’s take on the classic doesn’t waste a minute. With a brooding original score by Robin Kelly, death lurking around every corner, and a fresh cast including Theo Dāvid and Phoebe McKellar starring as the ill-fated lovers, this unmissable take on Romeo & Juliet is all tension, thrill, and emotional torque.
But beneath it all, you’ll still be moved by Shakespeare’s original meditation on love — romantic, platonic, forbidden, and all-consuming. It’s passionate, punchy, and heartbreakingly beautiful. And it might just be the perfect excuse to shake up your usual catch-up with the girls. Book your tickets here.
So, rally a group, put on something worthy of 60s Italy, and let this iconic tragedy be the main event of your next girls’ night out. Add a cocktail and an Italian feast pre-show, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable evening. Here, we round up where to head to truly lean into the show’s setting, and make a night of it.
Undoubtedly one of Auckland’s most popular eateries, Italian or otherwise, Amano is consistently humming with hungry punters around the clock. The eatery offers a delicious Italian-inspired menu that highlights seasonal, local produce (the pasta dishes are a particular highlight), and with a raft of unmissable sharing plates, this is a more than perfect spot for a bite and cocktail in the early evening.
At this chic inner-city spot, the Italian energy is dialled all the way up — think sleek yet laid-back interiors, and a menu that’s equal parts classic and contemporary, not to mention the wonderfully warm team both in front of and behind the pass. At Bossi, house-made pasta, glossy sauces and beautifully plated antipasti set the tone, while cocktails arrive crisp and considered. It’s a buzzy slice of Milan in the middle of the city — perfect for a little theatre-night indulgence.
The humble yet incredibly delicious meals that can be found at the most unassuming neighbourhood trattorias were what originally inspired Karangahape Road favourite. Pici, from its intimate dining room to its mouthwatering menu which is designed to share. Here, you simply cannot pass up the cacio e pepe. Although the venison bolognese spaghetti is also popular; full of flavour and perfectly indulgent. Tables are limited, so head in early to grab a quick bite and glass of something delicious pre-show.
At this beloved eatery, that happens to just be a hop, skip, and a jump away from the theatre, Italian-inspired food and wines fill the menu. You’ll find the likes of delicious beef short ribs, Karitane crayfish meatballs (there’s a whole section in the menu dedicated to the eatery’s hand-crafted meatballs), and countless handmade pastas amongst Baduzzi’s must-try dishes. Washed down with a glass of Italian Bianchi, of course.
This iconic restaurant is small but mighty. Offering a curated and concise menu, and an intimate, calm setting, Ortolana is one spot to which we always find ourselves returning for dinner in the Britomart precinct. With a pre-show dinner menu, the service is swift (if needed), and the fresh pasta is always divine.
Bivacco has become a go-to destination for delicious Italian — day or night. The food here is unparalleled, and is made even more perfect when enjoyed overlooking the sparkling waters of Viaduct Harbour with one of Bivacco’s delicious cocktails in hand. And while you really can’t beat the margherita pizza here, those craving something more lavish will find it in the goats cheese ravioli, adorned with endive, burnt honey and pistachio. Perfecto.
William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, 15 July to 9 August at the ASB Waterfront Theatre. Tickets on sale now at atc.co.nz.
Whether cosied by the fire or sprawled in the sun, there is always occasion for a good book, no matter where the season may take you. Here, we deliver a line-up of recently released, unmissable reads that run the gamut from moving memoirs to gripping novels to escapist reads.
Captivating Reads
Novels to Inspire Escapism
Finding Grace
by Loretta Rothschild
Finding Grace is a poignant debut about resilience, redemption, and the unexpected paths to healing, within which protagonist Honor’s picture-perfect life shatters when a devastating event upends her family’s future — the ramifications of which have a lasting impact.
From the author of American Dirt comes a heart-wrenching novel about three generations of women navigating love, regret, and belonging. As a deadly storm strikes Puerto Rico, a mother races to mend fractured bonds and bring her family back together before it’s too late.
In the high-stakes art world, Enka’s obsession with her brilliant friend Mathilde spirals when a new technology promises to heighten empathy, at a dangerous cost. Immaculate Conception is a chilling exploration of art, identity, and the boundaries of human connection.
In this sharp, funny, and bittersweet novel, 41-year-old Sarah, once a wild party girl, embarks on a whisky-fuelled road trip across Scotland with her sister. As past obsessions and teenage dreams resurface, she navigates midlife, nostalgia, and the search for something more.
A killer seeking revenge. A vigilante targeting a feminist icon. As Holly Gibney investigates two chilling cases — one a cryptic mass murder threat, the other a rising stalker — these twisted narratives collide in King’s gripping new tale of justice, obsession, and deadly reckoning.
In Bitter Sweet, a young book publicist embarks on a magnetic affair with her literary idol — only to discover how power, desire, and disillusionment can entwine. Set in London’s publishing world, this emotionally charged debut explores ambition, vulnerability, and the high cost of loving the wrong person.
Set against the backdrop of NASA’s 1980 Space Shuttle program, this gripping novel follows a physicist as she pursues her dream of spaceflight. Amid intense training, unexpected love, and deep friendships, one fateful mission forces her to confront the limits of ambition.
In a rainy Connecticut town, Hai, on the brink of despair, is saved by Grazina, an elderly widow battling dementia. Their unlikely bond becomes a journey of healing, survival, and profound love, exploring the transformative power of second chances and chosen family.
A gripping novel of love, ambition, and second chances, Ordinary Love follows Emily as she reconnects with her former best friend and first love, Gen. Torn between desire and duty, Emily must decide if risking everything is worth rekindling a once-lost romance.
Tour de force of cultural criticism Sophie Gilbert explores how pop culture distorted feminism, turning a generation of women against themselves. Through sharp analysis, she reveals how hyper-objectification and internet culture reshaped societal attitudes, with lasting consequences that impact us all.
With her signature warmth and scientific clarity, Dr Libby’s Fix Iron First is a vital wake-up call to one of health’s most overlooked culprits. Insightful, compassionate, and deeply practical, it reframes iron as a foundation for energy, clarity, and lasting wellbeing.
Author Geoff Dyer’s memoir paints a vivid portrait of his working-class childhood in postwar England, exploring the pivotal moment that shaped his future. Through humour and reflection, Homework traces his journey from school misadventures to a blossoming love of literature and life.
A deeply moving testament to resilience, Notes to John offers an intimate glimpse into Joan Didion’s private reflections during a turbulent time. With her signature precision and clarity, she chronicles therapy sessions in notes meant for her husband, revealing a raw, questioning, yet courageous voice amid profound personal reckoning.
Restaurateur Keith McNally’s memoir is witty, candid, and unexpectedly poignant, tracing his journey from a rough London childhood to shaping New York’s dining scene with Balthazar and Pastis. Through humour and sharp insight, he reflects on fame, family, reinvention, and resilience after a life-altering stroke.
John & Paul is a fresh, emotionally rich portrait of Lennon and McCartney’s complex bond — part friendship, part rivalry, all genius. Tracing their creative highs and personal fractures, Ian Leslie explores how two young visionaries reshaped music — and each other — through collaboration, conflict, and an enduring musical dialogue.
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