Showcasing standout designs from Tom Dixon, Articolo, Flos and more, ECC’s dedicated lighting showroom is open after a thoughtful reimagining by Rufus Knight. The space embodies the design destination’s commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and enduring design, offering an immersive experience that reflects the quality and creativity ECC lighting has long been known for.
There are few dishes as iconic or comforting as a perfectly prepared biryani. At Cassia, award-winning chef Sid Sahrawat gives this Indian classic his own contemporary twist with Biryani Thursdays, a weekly ritual designed for sharing. For $49, guests can enjoy chicken biryani served in a traditional clay pot, paired with a choice of three sides. The portion is generous enough for two, making it an ideal midweek date or a flavoursome dinner with a friend.
Available exclusively on Thursdays from 5 – 9.30pm, the dish requires 48 hours’ pre-order — a nod to both the craft and patience behind biryani itself. Expect tender chicken, spiced rice, and layers of flavour that reflect Sahrawat’s signature approach: marrying the traditional recipes of his Indian upbringing with contemporary flair and local New Zealand ingredients.
Since opening, Cassia has carved out a reputation as one of Auckland’s most innovative dining destinations, celebrated for its ability to reimagine Indian cuisine while remaining authentic to its roots. Biryani Thursdays continue that story, offering guests the chance to slow down and experience one of India’s most loved dishes, imagined through a modern lens.
Spaces are limited, so plan ahead, and let Thursday nights at Cassia become your new culinary ritual.
skycityauckland.co.nz/restaurants/cassia
Milan Fashion Week SS ’26 was alive with an energy that felt unmatched in recent memory; this was the most exciting fashion week we’ve seen in a long time (thanks, in large part, to the debutants). Gone, it seems, are the days of formulaic design, monochromatic palettes, and cookie-cutter collections — Milan signalled a return to a distinct voice and vision.
Prada set the tone with sharp tailoring and a killer palette, softened by fluid, almost poetic silhouettes with an edge, while Fendi leaned into craftsmanship (and the swinging 60s), layering texture and unexpected cuts with a playful edge. At Bottega, under the fresh vision of Louise Trotter, bold, sculptural leather stood took centre stage, reaffirming the House’s largely unrivalled mastery of tactile luxury.
Elsewhere, Dolce & Gabbana returned to unapologetic sensuality, celebrating body and form with lace, structural yet sexy silhouettes, and a distinctly laid-back luxe sensibility, while Versace embraced a punchy futurism with high-shine finishes and power shapes that looked destined for after dark.
Max Mara brought the calm counterpoint — elegant restraint through sleek suiting and buttery neutrals that reaffirmed its timeless appeal. Together, the season felt like a reset: houses reclaiming their heritage while fearlessly stepping into the a bold new chapter.
The latest, elevated take on the boho bag gives the free-spirited staple a sophisticated upgrade. From classic Chloé to slouchy suede from The Row, these are the season’s must-haves — any of which would make the perfect request from Santa.
There’s a low-key eatery slowly and quietly becoming one of the top spots to find a true taste of Mexico in Auckland. Taco Amaiz, now with outposts at both Elliot Stables and in the heart of Parnell at 269, is a taqueria centred on good, hearty, authentic Mexican cuisine — no frills, just delicious, quality food.
Founded by two Mexican chefs, Taco Amaiz is built on roots that run deep in Northern Mexico. It’s here that recipes were learned by the duo the traditional way — in family kitchens, around crowded tables, and always with a sense of community. That same spirit now permeates Taco Amaiz’s two Auckland outposts, where every detail is designed to feel warm, humble, and above all, authentic.
The menu centres around hand-pressed corn tortillas, layered with slow-cooked meats and vibrant toppings that showcase the richness of time-honoured cuisine. Birria takes pride of place — the aromatic, slow-braised beef that’s a cornerstone of Mexican cooking — and at Taco Amaiz, it’s celebrated in inventive forms too, like their already cult-favourite birria ramen. There are additional favourites to be found too, such as fresh, tasty quesadillas, burritos, and flavourful rice bowls. These are dishes that refuse shortcuts, cooked low and slow, with flavour unfolding in every bite.
While the food sings of heritage, the philosophy is equally contemporary: source locally, cook seasonally, and keep it uncompromising. The result is an experience that balances simplicity with soul. It’s designed not just an eatery, but a gathering place, somewhere to linger with friends, order another round of tacos, and feel transported without leaving town.
For those seeking a place where food feels both familiar and transformative, Taco Amaiz is a reminder of why honest cooking, done well, always amazes.
Opening hours:
Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 9pm
Taco Amaiz
Elliott Stables,
39 Elliott Street,
Auckland CBD
Reform has redefined reformer Pilates with a method rooted in innovative programming, functional movement, and genuine inclusivity. With multiple studios up and down the country and a loyal following, the Reform approach is simple: train for real life.
“We don’t take ourselves too seriously,” say Reform’s Auckland franchise owners, “but we are serious about how we move.” Every class is defined by intent, variety, and challenge. “At Reform, our classes are designed to promote better movement, not just in the studio, but in real life.” Whether it’s a stronger golf swing, gardening without pain, lifting kids with confidence, or simply moving through daily life with more ease, “We train for what matters most outside of class.”
Clients return for the depth of benefit they feel, even if they can’t always name it. “Our movement protocols work in layers, creating impact far beyond the obvious.” Every class leaves you a more efficient mover, and over time that compounds into an addictive reward system. The sessions are challenging, so you leave knowing there’s more to strive for. The most common feedback? People simply feel better. “We share incredible client stories — and while we’re not front-line responders, we know we advocate for both longer life expectancy and better life fulfilment.”
Each class follows a proven protocol: warm-up, ramp-up, and grounding finish. “Across this, we train the full spectrum of movement — postural control, balance, deceleration, pushing, pulling, reaching, bending, and responding to load — leaving the body energised, not exhausted,” they say.
Rooted in reformer Pilates, Reform blends the latest science with conventional strength protocols. No gimmicks, no trends, just intelligent programming, functional strength, and a deep respect for how real bodies move through real life. “The challenge is always optional — a tool, not a test — and we celebrate those who move best for their ability, not just the best in the room.”
In the world of interiors, contrast is everything, and this season, the high-impact pairing of soft baby blue with striking red is reasserting itself as the colour story to watch.
Once associated with traditional Americana, the blue-and-red combination is now enjoying a thoroughly modern makeover — one that plays with tone, proportion, and texture to evoke elegance, energy, and effortless sophistication. In this new palette, cool, powdery blues dominate the space, setting a serene, expansive base. Think Resene’s Time Out or Breathless — soft yet grounded hues that offer calm and neutrality with just a hint of nostalgic charm. Against this, accents in pops of red appear like punctuation marks, delivering welcome moments of visual tension.
From crimson to coral, even the smallest touch of Resene’s Smashing, Tall Poppy, or Red Hot can shift the mood. It’s all about balance — let the blue breathe across walls and key upholstery, and use red with intention to bring dynamism and depth. Brass detailing and cream or ivory-toned neutrals add warmth and elegance, preventing the scheme from veering too severe.
Together, this duo proves that opposites not only attract, but harmonise. Whether you’re drawn to coastal calm or postmodern cool, Resene’s carefully curated palette makes it easy to tailor this colour story to your style.
Founded by holistic facialist Rachel Jackson, Rae blends sculpting massage, lymphatic drainage, and breathwork to refresh both skin and spirit. This spring, Rae’s signature treatment helps ease tension, boost glow and leave you feeling lighter, calmer and reconnected.
How does your signature treatment support a spring reset?
After a Rae signature sculpting treatment comes a feeling of lightness and rejuvenation — easing tension in the facial muscles, tissues and fascia. The blend of breathwork, lymphatic drainage, sculpting, and buccal massage clears stagnation, reduces puffiness and reconnects you to yourself, helping release winter’s built-up stress and restore flow, glow and balance.
Why do you feel this treatment or ritual is particularly suited to spring — are there physical or emotional benefits that come to the forefront at this time of year?
This treatment supports both physical and emotional reset — detoxifying the skin, releasing facial tension, and boosting circulation, while also calming the nervous system. When your body rests and resets, it naturally shows in your skin.
How do you tailor this experience to each client — what intuitive or technical steps guide you during the treatment?
Before each treatment, I consult with clients to understand their unique needs and tailor the session accordingly — adjusting techniques or focus areas as needed. During the treatment, I also “listen” to the body, sensing tension and blockages to help release what’s been held.
Are there any ingredients, tools, or techniques involved that are especially grounding, clarifying, or seasonally supportive?
I use beautiful natural facial oils like Sans [ceuticals], Milou, and Living Libations Seabuckthorn — calming, hydrating, and perfect for reviving the skin. Buccal massage helps release deep jaw tension, especially for TMJ or clenching, easing both physical and emotional stress. Regular lymphatic drainage also supports reducing puffiness and stagnation, and is a grounding practice you can continue at home.
What kind of shifts do clients tend to notice after the treatment?
Clients often say, “My skin felt amazing afterwards,” with reduced puffiness, smoother fine lines, and improved facial tone and jawline clarity. Many also feel deeply relaxed — some even fall asleep — and notice better sleep afterward. It’s a unique, renewing experience for each person.
What makes your space and your work feel different from a traditional facialist or skin clinic experience?
I’ve tried to create a safe, comfortable and soothing environment to signal to the nervous system that it can chill. It’s not a clinical space but one you can show up as your authentic self with no judgement and just be. The goal is relaxation and rejuvenation here and everyone is welcome.
There’s plenty to get excited about on a culture front this October, with a bumper calendar of events spanning everything from thrilling theatre and ballet to exceptional exhibitions, comedy, live music, markets and more. Below, we round up everything worth attending.
When & Where: Now until 12th October, Sanderson
Sanderson presents Hiringa Nuku, a collaborative exhibition from Simon Kaan and Wi Taepa exploring the energy of the earth through painting and clay. Rooted in the tuakana–teina tradition of mentorship, the works embody the fluid, evolving dialogue between water and land, sky and clay, heritage and new perspective.
When & Where: 10th & 11th October, The Civic
Ballet goes gothic in Dracula, a world premiere fusing Tchaikovsky, Bach, Stravinsky, and Rachmaninov. Choreographed by Joel Burke and performed by an international alumni cast, this darkly seductive reimagining promises ballet at its most haunting.
When & Where: Thursday 30th October — Sunday 9th November, Spark Arena
A dreamlike carnival between heaven and earth, Corteo is Cirque du Soleil at its most poetic. Featuring soaring acrobatics and a one-of-a-kind stage design, this whimsical production invites audiences into a dazzling world of joy, nostalgia, and breathtaking beauty.
When & Where: 3rd — 12th October, various locations country-wide
Fresh from US stages alongside Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan, country powerhouse Tami Neilson returns home with her Neon Cowgirl tour. With a soaring new album and a voice that’s won fans worldwide, Neilson brings her firebrand energy to Auckland, Wellington, Nelson, and Christchurch.
When & Where: Wednesday 15th October, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre
Bibi’s first world tour, Eve, promises an electrifying blend of genre-bending sound, raw emotion, and bold theatricality. Closing her acclaimed Era of Love series, the tour showcases dual personas, unforgettable visuals, and the magnetic presence that’s made her a star.
When & Where: Wednesday 15th October — Sunday 9th November, Sanderson
Sanderson presents Main Character, a new exhibition by New York–based New Zealand artist Natasha Wright. Known for her vivid, neo-expressionist canvases, Wright fuses figuration and abstraction to reframe the portrayal of women. Her layered works blur sensuality and strength, challenging conventional ideas of femininity with bold colour, confident line work, and an instinctively contemporary voice.
When & Where: 3rd — 4th October, Viaduct Events Centre
Celebrate a decade of Winetopia at Auckland’s Viaduct. Over 50 of New Zealand’s top wineries gather for a weekend of tastings, masterclasses, live music, and entertainment — a vibrant pop-up cellar door where every pour tells a story.
When & Where: 11th — 12th October, Good Form Gallery
For one weekend only, Good Form Gallery transforms into a vibrant hub of independent design. Featuring around 20 visionary makers, Makers Market is a tactile showcase of furniture, objects, and homeware that celebrates authenticity, ingenuity, and the next wave of Aotearoa design talent.
When & Where: 10th — 18th October, Stardome
Music and cosmos collide in Strings Under the Stars, as Auckland Philharmonia’s string quartet performs celestial compositions beneath Stardome’s immersive skies. Expect Beethoven and Debussy alongside a new work by Keith Moss, paired with a planetarium journey that transforms this concert into an interstellar experience.
When & Where: 30th October — 20th December, various locations country-wide
The Royal New Zealand Ballet reimagines The Nutcracker for a Kiwi summer, set against the nostalgia of pōhutukawa blooms, barefoot cricket, and ice creams by the bach. Choreographed by Ty King-Wall, this magical production blends Tchaikovsky’s timeless score with uniquely local traditions for a dazzling festive season.
When & Where: Friday 10th — Monday 13th October, various locations country-wide
Rob Beckett is hitting the road with Giraffe, his brand new stand-up show. Expect big laughs, takeaway-fuelled tales, and a guaranteed good time from one of comedy’s most loveable loud-mouths.
When & Where: 4th — 20th October, Föenander Galleries
With over three decades of practice, Michael McHugh returns with a striking new body of work at Föenander. Layered abstractions shift between gestural mark-making and botanical forms, capturing both brooding intensity and vibrant energy in vivid, textural compositions.
When & Where: 21st October — 8th November, Q Theatre
A smash hit at the Edinburgh Fringe, Captain Morrow and the Sands of Time makes its Aotearoa debut this spring. Two actors, one musician, and no props conjure a riotous cast of pirates, sea gods, and monsters in a gloriously absurd 60-minute romp that’s part swashbuckling adventure, part comedic tour de force.
When & Where: Now until Sunday 19th July 2026, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
Step into a world of wonder at Artland, the Auckland Art Gallery’s playful new installation by renowned Korean artist Do Ho Suh and his young daughters. Crafted from colourful modelling clay, this evolving, hands-on experience invites families to shape their own fantastical landscapes.
When & Where: 4th — 25th October, Gow Langsford Onehunga
Dick Frizzell unveils a major new series of landscapes in The Weight of the World. With his signature wit and painterly assurance, Frizzell elevates everyday scenes — from poplar-lined paths to fishing huts — into grounded yet spectacular reflections on place and optimism.
When & Where: 13th November — 6th December, Q Theatre Loft
Q Theatre’s Loft becomes Lady T’s, the hottest drag club in town, for the world premiere of D.R.A.G. Directed by designer and Silo collaborator Daniel Williams, this high-energy showcase sees Aotearoa drag icons battle it out for the crown in a dazzling celebration of artistry, activism, and unbridled glamour.
When & Where: 16th — 19th October, The Civic, Auckland
Critically acclaimed and heart-expanding, Love Stories brings Trent Dalton’s celebrated collection to the stage for just five performances. Adapted by Tim McGarry with additional writing by Dalton and Fiona Franzmann, and directed by Sam Strong, the production captures tales of love in all its forms — funny, moving, raw, and profoundly human. Inspired by Dalton’s conversations with everyday Australians, this poignant theatrical gem unfolds as a series of interwoven stories that ask one enduring question: What is love?
When & Where: 10th — 22nd October, Turua Gallery
Turua Gallery presents Shift into Neutral, a serene showcase of works by seven New Zealand artists. From abstract paintings to recycled beehive sculptures and ceramics, the exhibition highlights the quiet power of minimalism, texture, and a neutral palette.
Moments that change everything deserve a gift worth equal weight, and Walker & Hall’s sentiment-rich pieces mark those life-altering beginnings with meaning.
Few milestones hold the magic and magnitude of becoming a mother. It’s a chapter that redefines life — from the exhilarating early days to the triumphs and tender moments of the first year, through to every Mother’s Day and beyond. Walker & Hall knows this implicitly (126 years of helping people mark life’s greatest moments will do that), curating timeless, sentiment-rich pieces that honour the extraordinary role of mum and live on as family treasures.
Think keepsakes she’ll wear daily — refined diamond studs, a timeless tennis bracelet, or a stunning statement ring, each imbued with memory and meaning. These are the kind of treasures that become part of her journey, quietly gathering significance with every milestone that follows. Whether it’s a sparkling push present, a jewel to mark the first year, or a gift that signifies a more personal milestone, each piece is a celebration in itself.
The beauty of these thoughtful and enduring gifts lie not just in their beauty, but in their power to preserve a moment — distilling the joy, pride, and unbridled love of motherhood into something she can carry always — a lasting reminder of life’s most enduring bond.
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