Megan Stalter as Jessica in Lena Dunham’s new series 'Too Much'

Everything we know so far about Lena Dunham’s return to TV with Too Much

More than 10 years after changing the face of how women are depicted on TV in her hit series Girls, Lena Dunham is back with something new — although this time she’s spending far more time behind the camera than in front of it. As the writer / actress has become known for, Lena Dunham’s new Netflix series Too Much — set for release next week, on July 10th — is loosely based on her own experiences. Here’s what you need to know:

What’s the Plot?

Set in London, the series charts a thirty-something New Yorker’s recent move following a tough breakup as she sets out to start afresh somewhere new. While the city itself isn’t exactly what she had imagined, she soon meets (and subsequently falls for) Felix — a laid-back musician who is workaholic, over-thinker Jessica’s anthesis.

Spanning 10 episodes, the show charts Jessica (played by Megan Statler of Hacks fame) and Felix’s (played by The White Lotus’ Will Sharpe) courtship, which is anything but straightforward. Both want to make it work, but find themselves burdened and held back by the past in ways it’s not clear whether they’ll be able to reconcile. Ultimately, the show is a refreshing real depiction of falling in love, and fans of Girls will find Dunham’s familiar deftness in social critique a comfort, despite the show’s many ups and downs.

Left: Felix (Will Sharpe) right: Jessica (Megan Stalter)

Who’s in the Cast?

Outside of protagonists Jessica (Megan Statler) and Felix (Will Sharpe), the show features some big namers. Fleabag’s ‘Hot Priest’ (Andrew Scott) makes a welcome appearance, alongside Jessica Alba, Emily Ratajkowski, Richard E. Grant, Stephen Fry, Rhea Perlman, Kit Harington, Andrew Rannells, Jennifer Saunders, and Marnie’s mother from Girls, Rita Wilson. Michael Zegen stars as Jessica’s ex, and Dunham herself does make an appearance in front of the camera, but you’ll have to wait and see how that plays out.

Polly (Emily Ratajkowski)

Watch the Trailer:

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Nonoto barstools by Läufer + Keichel for Zeitraum, Luna plate by Rina Menardi from ECC

Step inside an elegantly transformed Grey Lynn residence

Architecture — Leuschke Kahn Architects
Interior Design — Venia Design
Photography — Sam Hartnett

A delicate balance between heritage charm and contemporary elegance defines this exquisitely transformed Grey Lynn residence — redesigned by Venia Design to embrace its historic roots while seamlessly integrating modern comforts, creating a harmonious family sanctuary.

Perched high atop a light-filled site in Auckland’s central suburbs, this historic villa plays to its stunning surrounds, maximising views while sitting as a refined retreat perfectly befitting the demands of family life. Enveloped by lush greenery and overlooking a verdant park, with fresh morning light filtering in from the east and dappled evening light flooding the back, Venia Design imagined the home’s interiors to be sympathetic to the light’s path, enhancing its impact at every turn. 

From the outset, the goal was to create a home that was both functional and striking, where children could play freely and adults could entertain with ease. As such, open-plan living areas were imagined to flow seamlessly into exterior spaces, with the light-filled, airy kitchen opening up to a stunning stone terrace and pool — a space which lends itself as easily to entertaining as it does daily family life.

Nonoto barstools by Läufer + Keichel for Zeitraum, Luna plate by Rina Menardi from ECC

Where the exterior of the home had to adhere to strict heritage guidelines to preserve its historical facade — elegantly transformed by Leuschke Kahn Architects, the interiors were able to be completely reimagined, breathing new life into the family home. High ceilings and open family spaces were achieved by reworking the internal structure, using level changes to define different zones within the home. Infusing the space with a sense of warmth and openness, hallways were designed to borrow light from adjacent rooms, while main living areas were crafted to gather and hold natural light. Considering light in a different way, bedrooms were furnished with soft hues to mitigate the coolness of evening shadows. 

Ivy Pendant 8 by CTO Lighting from ECC, Saarinen conference chair by Eero Saarinen for Knoll from Studio Italia
The Girl Stands Tall sculpture by Paul Dibble from Gow Langsford Gallery

Venia Design was focused on creating a calm, considered environment that is simple, elegant, and timeless — a feat achieved through the use of a thoughtful material palette, carefully conceived spatial layout, and luxurious yet practical furnishings. Statuario stone brings an unexpected richness to kitchen cabinetry, which features clean lines that blend contemporary and traditional villa aesthetics, while elsewhere, dark cabinetry accents add depth without overwhelming the space.

He Kiwi Kāwhatawhata artwork by Fiona Pardington from Starkwhite, The Girl Stands Tall sculpture by Paul Dibble from Gow Langsford Gallery, Hamilton sofa by Rodolfo Dordoni for Minotti from ECC
Torii armchair by Nendo for Minotti, Bronze Slice mirror tray by Dawn Sweitzer for Ethnicraft both from ECC
Redondo Armchair by Patricia Urquiola From Matisse

Furnishings were chosen to echo the prevailing sense of timeless elegance. Minotti sofas, with their strong lines, complement the Italian marble, while the front room features playful Redondo swivel chairs, inspiring repose. Custom mohair rugs soften rustic wide-board floors, while in the dining area, the home’s hub of entertaining, a soft oval table paired with Saarinen chairs invites connection. 

Ultimately, this thoughtfully reimagined Auckland-based residence sits at the intersection of heritage charm and modern functionality, creating a charming sanctuary perfectly suited to the changing tides of family life. 

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Elevate your everyday essentials with this 90s-inspired layered T-shirt trend

The layered T-shirt trend is a simple yet impactful way to upgrade and elevate your casual wardrobe. By pairing two tees — usually contrasting in colour, fit, or length — you add depth, texture, and visual interest to any outfit. It’s versatile, easy to style, and perfect for transitioning between seasons.

Try a longer layer either under or over a boxy tee, or mix neutral tones to create subtle contrast. The key is balance — let the layers stand out while keeping the rest of your look minimal. Cosy, comfortable, and effortlessly cool, this trend proves that basics can be anything but boring.

Shop The Edit

Ribbed jersey tank top from Miu Miu
Long-sleeved cotton jersey T-shirt from Prada
Jil Sander set of three cotton tops from Farfetch
Jil Sander layered tank top from Farfetch
Set of three Jersey T-shirts from Miu Miu
Cotton jersey T-shirt from Prada
Set of three jersey t-shirts from Miu Miu
Acne Studios Layered T-shirt from Farfetch

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Left to right: Oji Sushi, BillyPot, Fatima's

There’s a new foodie celebration in town, informing your next great meal

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 head here to 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).

Harbour Eats
Our Go-To Dishes

commercialbay.co.nz

Gastronomy

Michelin-starred chef Matt Lambert opens his new Ponsonby restaurant
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Azabu's spicy salmon tartar with crispy rice

Azabu Ponsonby & Mission Bay unveil delicious new menus

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.

savor.co.nz/azabu

Gastronomy

Michelin-starred chef Matt Lambert opens his new Ponsonby restaurant
This long weekend, Ki Māha makes the case that the best holiday is 35 minutes away
The votes are in: These are the finest buns in town, as decided by you
Auckland Theatre Company’s rendition of Romeo & Juliet
Bossi
Pici

The ultimate excuse to dress up and do something different

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.

Our Editors’ Picks
Italian Eateries

Amano

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.

Bossi

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.

Pici

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.

Baduzzi

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.

Ortolana

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

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.

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Left to right: Soul Bar & Bistro, Somm Wine Bar & Bistro & Azabu

Denizen’s definitive July Dining Guide

July is serving up a range of tasty new menus, delicious pop-ups, new openings and more. So whether you’re an enthusiastic foodie, or are simply wanting to switch up your routine, look no further than our comprehensive July Dining Guide below.

Truffle Discovery at Kingi

On Thursday 31st July, Kingi is going all in on truffle with a one-night-only four-course dinner ($189pp) celebrating both black and white varieties — including a truffle-infused dessert. Special guest Jax Lee-May from Kings Truffles will be on hand to share insider knowledge and stories from the truffière. A must for truffle lovers; seats are limited.

Masu Legends Bento Box

This July, Masu is going all-in on kid-friendly flair with the limited-edition Legends Bento Box, inspired by Karate Kid Legends (in cinemas now). Each box includes Masu karaage chicken, vegetarian sushi rolls, edamame, robata-grilled teriyaki salmon and pineapple — plus themed chopsticks and a headband to complete the look. Bonus: 50 lucky boxes will contain a hidden double pass to the film.

Cassia Full Circle Feast

On Wednesday 30th July, Cassia hosts a one-night-only Full Circle Feast — a 10-course shared menu ($145pp) created by the celebrated chefs who’ve shaped the restaurant’s story over the past 11 years. Each dish is a personal tribute, culminating in a final course from Chef Sid himself.

Cantine Pop-Up at Bar Céleste

Back by popular demand, Cantine returns for a limited pop-up at Bar Céleste — sending the beloved bistro off in style. From cheeseburgers and filet o’ market fish, burgers to garlic fries and burnt butter cookies, all the favourites are on the menu. Open Thursday to Saturday, 5–8pm (or until sold out), with happy hour from 5–6pm. Don’t miss out — limited house-made buns available!

Roasts Return to The Wine Room

Chef Ryan Moore’s now-legendary Proper Sunday Roast returns from the 20th of July for a limited run of Sundays in The Wine Room’s intimate private space. Kicking off with Champagne and canapés, guests will enjoy a three-course feast with weekly-changing roasts, Yorkshire puds, and house-made desserts. $175pp, with wine matches available. Sundays, 2pm–late — and bookings are essential.

Tempero Turns Two

To celebrate two years on K’ Road, Tempero is teaming up with its neighbours for a three-night collaboration series from 10th–12th July. Each night, Chef Fabio Bernardini will co-create a four-course menu with chefs from Lebanese Grocer, PICI, and Apéro — spotlighting the Lebanese, Italian and French influences that have long shaped Latin American cuisine.

Chef’s Table at The Libraries

For one night only on 24th July, Olly Le Maitre (Black Estate) and Tom Hishon (kingi) unite for an intimate five-course degustation at The Libraries, Hotel Britomart. With just 16 seats, guests will move through The Lounge, Chef’s Library, and Wine Library as they savour dishes like Jerusalem artichoke with Périgord truffle and Tītī with horopito. $329pp, with matched wines.

SkyCity Delish

This winter, SkyCity invites you to indulge in Delish — a celebration of unforgettable dining, immersive events, and nostalgic comforts. From open-flame feasts and exclusive chef collaborations to heartwarming celebrations, it’s a season made for gathering. Enjoy crafted menus across SkyCity’s award-winning restaurants, free parking with every qualifying spend, and special experiences aplenty.

New Winter Dishes at Soul

Soul’s menu gets a fresh winter update with a line-up of elegant new dishes celebrating land and sea. Dive into a rich seafood chowder with smoked fish, clams and mussels, or try the market fish with confit fennel and orange-soaked raisins. There’s also steamed fish with green olive and fried oyster mushroom, and a Greenlea beef fillet with soubise and cavolo nero for hearty indulgence.

Pop-Up at The Pantry

The Pantry’s beloved pop-up hut returns this winter in the form of Spudz — your new lunchtime favourite for loaded baked potatoes. Expect one comforting classic and two rotating chef specials, all generously filled and piping hot. Open Monday to Friday, 11am–2pm, it’s the ultimate grab-and-go solution for cold-weather cravings.

Unmissable New Menu at Azabu

Azabu Ponsonby and Mission Bay have both unveiled vibrant new seasonal menus, showcasing the eateries’ signature Japanese-Peruvian flair. Highlights include spicy salmon tartar, popcorn prawn tempura, chicken and prawn dumplings, and a standout crispy pork belly with ginger apple purée. With inventive new sides and sushi rolls, it’s the perfect time to revisit a classic.

Wax On Wednesdays at Kemuri Hi-Fi

Every Wednesday from 4pm ‘til late, Kemuri Hi-Fi spins full albums curated by Dusty Crates and Stack Records — all available to buy on the night. Pair the tunes with obscure classic cocktails mixed with Glenfiddich, Hendrick’s Gin and Drambuie. A new midweek ritual for vinyl lovers and cocktail connoisseurs alike.

Le Salon at Rooftop QT: Champagne & Soirées

Step into Le Salon, Rooftop at QT’s new 1920s-inspired pop-up, open until 31st August. This velvet-draped hideaway invites you to indulge in late-night soirées, weekend lunches, and Champagne tasting flights featuring Perrier-Jouët and G.H. Mumm. Choose from The Gilded Trio ($49) or the exclusive five-pour Secrets of the Cellar ($99), paired with gourmet bites like truffle Wagyu sliders and salmon caviar-topped fried chicken. Tastings available daily until 8:30pm.

Après, the Ayrburn Way

As the slopes wind down, the energy ramps up at Ayrburn’s iconic Après Ski Happy Hour. From 4–6pm daily in The Manure Room (starting Friday 27th June), expect top-tier drink specials, shot skis, and elevated shared plates in a setting that knows how to celebrate the season. Come Friday and Saturday, live music stretches the festivities till 7pm, with some of Aotearoa’s most exciting acts.

Sunday Sparkles at Somm

Every Sunday from 12–4pm, bottles of G.H.Mumm bubbles start from just $65 at Somm Wine Bar & Bistro. With a DJ spinning from midday and flutes flowing, it’s the kind of Sunday that asks nothing of you — except maybe a top-up.

Kitchen Co-Lab Series at Queens Rooftop

Queens Rooftop is turning winter Mondays into something worth looking forward to with its brand-new Kitchen Co-Lab Series. Each Monday in July between 6pm–9pm, Executive Chef Maia Atvars teams up with a different guest chef — including Jono Thevenard (Pici), Elie Assaf (The Lebanese Grocer), and Kasey and Karena Bird — for an intimate, one-night-only menu of bold, collaborative small plates. Expect creative flavour pairings, a bespoke drinks list, and a seriously good time up on the roof.

Boda x Miss Mi: A Trans-Tasman Culinary Collaboration

For two nights only — 17 and 18 July — Boda welcomes Chef Migo Razon of Miss Mi Melbourne to join Executive Chef Hyokeun Choi for a four-course fusion feast blending modern Korean and Filipino flavours. Expect bold dishes, rich storytelling, and a final course inspired by traditional Korean dessert. $160pp with De Bortoli wine pairing; limited seats available.

7 Paintings — The Art of Dining

Launching in Wellington on 27 June, 7 Paintings is a groundbreaking interactive dinner show blending digital art, storytelling, and fine cuisine. Over 2.5 hours, guests journey through seven iconic artworks—from Michelangelo to Banksy—with each course paired to immersive visuals and music. Hosted at Naumi Hotel Wellington, Fridays, Saturdays, and new Thursdays in July; tickets from $159pp.

Gastronomy

Michelin-starred chef Matt Lambert opens his new Ponsonby restaurant
This long weekend, Ki Māha makes the case that the best holiday is 35 minutes away
The votes are in: These are the finest buns in town, as decided by you

Three ways to style the ultimate winter staple

When it comes to winter dressing, few pieces work harder than a great pair of boots. From sleek knee-highs paired with tights to the return of the ‘jean tuck’ and the undeniable polish of a pointed heel, this season’s boots are equal parts practical and powerful. Here’s how to style them right.

Knee-Highs

Knee-high boots and tights are a cold-weather classic, but this season, it’s all about the contrast. Ground the look with tights, then balance the sleek silhouette with an oversized blazer or a cropped coat. The result? Effortlessly put-together with just the right amount of edge.

Pointed Heel

The heeled pointed boot brings instant elevation to any outfit — literally and stylistically. Pair them with relaxed trousers, whether classic denim or soft leather, and anchor the look with a casual tee. Layer on an oversized blazer or long coat or trench for an off-duty ensemble that feels considered and cool.

The Jean Tuck

The ‘jean tuck’ is back — and it’s refreshingly undone. Loosely tuck straight or wide-leg denim into slouchy boots for a look that feels equal parts nostalgic and new. Keep the rest relaxed with earthy tones, a classic barn jacket, and a simple tee or singlet for an easy, effortless winter uniform.

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William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet

Our July Culture Guide has everything worth adding to your agenda this month

As we find ourselves beginning to crave warmer and lighter days, a calendar packed with cultural events is keeping us excited for the second month of winter. From exceptional exhibitions and captivating performances to live music and more, here we present our July Culture Guide, sure to satiate your creative cravings.

William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet

When & Where: Tuesday 15th July — Saturday 9th August, ASB Waterfront Theatre

Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet gets a thrilling 1960s Italian makeover in Auckland Theatre Company’s bold new production. With Theo Dāvid and Phoebe McKellar as the star-crossed lovers, this fast-paced, fashion-forward take blends cinematic score, fierce passion, and fatal rivalries in unforgettable style.

Freeman White, HOMECOMING, 2025

Freeman White — Rising Tides

When & Where: Wednesday 25th June – Sunday 20th July, Sanderson Contemporary

In Rising Tides, Freeman White explores the fleeting beauty and restless energy of Aotearoa’s oceans through evocative paintings born from en plein air studies. Inspired by his home on Napier’s Bluff Hill, this new body of work captures the unique, ever-changing moments of waves as they rise, crest, and break — a meditation on nature’s transience, paired with poetry reflecting the ocean’s deep cultural and ecological significance.

Maruata Rikoriko

When & Where: Now until Sunday 13th July, Market Square, Viaduct Harbour

Marking Matariki with reverence and warmth, Maruata Rikoriko is a new community installation at Viaduct Harbour that honours connection, kai, and culture. Created in collaboration with artists Graham Tipene and Amy Hawke (Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei), the space invites reflection and togetherness, anchored by a carved tēpu, twin pou, and recycled Cleanstone panels — a shimmering, connective space for shared experience on the Waitematā.

The Art of Banksy

The Art of Banksy

When & Where: Monday 7th July – Saturday 3rd August, Hunua Rooms, Aotea Centre

With over 150 works on display, The Art of Banksy lands in Tāmaki Makaurau this winter, offering a rare glimpse into the elusive artist’s world. From iconic prints to intimate sketches, this globally acclaimed exhibition reveals both the sharp wit and quiet subversion behind Banksy’s rise — a bold, immersive addition to the city’s winter culture calendar.

Synthony Origins

When & Where: Saturday 26th July, Spark Arena, Auckland

Synthony Origins returns with a late-night homage to the anthems that built club culture — with Sneaky Sound System, Bevan Keys and Dick Johnson leading the charge. From underground house to euphoric big-room bangers, expect a night of high-energy nostalgia, live orchestration and legendary tracks reimagined. One night only. One massive dancefloor.

Droughts in the Amazon, Musuk Nolte, Panos Pictures, Bertha Foundation. World Press Photo Exhibition

World Press Photo Exhibition

When & Where: Saturday 26th July – Sunday 24th August, 131 Queen Street, Auckland

Powerful, poignant, and unflinchingly real — the World Press Photo Exhibition returns to Auckland, spotlighting the year’s most compelling photojournalism from across the globe. From conflict zones to climate protests, the images on display offer a striking lens on the world we live in, asking viewers to pause, reflect, and look closer.

Home, Land and Sea

When & Where: Thursday 24th July — Saturday 9th August, various locations country-wide 

Royal New Zealand Ballet’s Home, Land and Sea unites three evocative ballets exploring connection and identity. Featuring works by Moss Te Ururangi Patterson, Shaun James Kelly, and Stephen Baynes, the programme reflects on heritage, transformation, and what it
means to find home through movement and storytelling.

Winter Wonderland at Aryburn

Winter Wonderland at Ayrburn

When & Where: Now until Sunday 27th July, Ayrburn, Arrowtown

Snow-dusted magic lands at Ayrburn as the precinct transforms into a glowing alpine escape. With mulled wine by the fire, a dazzling Christmas light display, daily ice skating, and Après Ski Happy Hour in the Manure Room, Winter Wonderland offers festive fun for all ages — whether you’re fresh from the slopes or simply chasing that mid-winter glow.

Prima Facie & The Golden Ass

When & Where: Now until Sunday 27th July, various locations country-wide 

The award-winning Prima Facie is set to tour the North Island this winter, starring Cassandra Woodhouse in a powerful one-woman performance. In Auckland and New Plymouth, select shows feature a double-header with Michael Hurst’s acclaimed The Golden Ass — presenting two masterful works in one unforgettable experience.

Left: Nick Herd – The Pistachio Stripe. Right: Michael Dell – Butterfly Gradient

Echo Bravo — Föenander Galleries

When & Where: Saturday 28th June — Tuesday 8th July, Föenander Galleries, Parnell

A meeting of four distinct voices, Echo Bravo brings together Michael Dell, Lottie Consalvo, Gavin Chai and Nick Herd in a thoughtful exploration of mark-making, memory and material. From Dell’s quietly precise landscapes to Consalvo’s emotionally charged abstractions, this group show offers a compelling cross-section of contemporary practice — where gesture, surface and stillness collide.

A Century of Modern Art

When & Where: Now until Sunday 28th September, Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tāmaki

A landmark exhibition of visionary painting, A Century of Modern Art arrives exclusively in Auckland this June. On loan from the internationally-renowned Toledo Museum of Art, the exhibition features 57 masterworks by 53 groundbreaking artists — including Monet, van Gogh, Cezanne, Picasso, and Frankenthaler — charting the evolution of modern art from Impressionism to Abstract Expressionism.

Billy Strings

Billy Strings

When & Where: Tuesday 22nd July, Spark Arena

Bluegrass phenomenon and Grammy winner Billy Strings makes his Aotearoa debut this July. Known for his lightning-fast picking and genre-defying sound, Strings brings his chart-topping album Highway Prayers to life with a night of unforgettable, high-octane roots music and masterful musicianship.

Taniwha

When & Where: Now until Sunday 13th July, Silo Theatre

A giant blue mushroom, a shaken taniwha, and a bold mission to protect the whenua — Taniwha is a vibrant, whānau-friendly theatrical adventure packed with live music, puppetry, and heart. Presented by Silo Theatre and Auckland Live, this bold new production blends environmental storytelling with 80s nostalgia and technicolour magic. Suitable for ages 5+, expect a wild ride of courage, community, and kaitiakitanga.

Sci-Fi Screenings at Stardome

When & Where: Friday 28th June – Saturday 13th July, Stardome Observatory & Planetarium

This winter, escape to the stars with Stardome’s family-friendly film series. From cult classics like E.T. and The Iron Giant to animated space adventures and planetarium favourites, the dome becomes a cinematic launchpad for kids and nostalgic grown-ups alike. With daily screenings and plenty of intergalactic charm, it’s the ultimate way to enjoy the holidays — without braving the elements.

The Gruffalo

The Gruffalo

When & Where: Wednesday 9th — Sunday 13th July, Bruce Mason Centre, Auckland

A beloved tale gets the big stage treatment as The Gruffalo returns to Auckland these school holidays. With catchy songs, cheeky humour and enchanting puppetry, this magical adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s picture book brings Mouse’s woodland adventure to life. Perfect for kids aged 3+ (and nostalgic grown-ups), it’s a wild romp through the deep, dark wood — and a monster hit in the making.

Mānuka Phuel Full Metal Orchestra

When & Where: Saturday 26th July, Spark Arena

Prepare for a sonic onslaught with Mānuka Phuel Full Metal Orchestra — where heavy metal blends with symphonic sound. Metallica meets Mozart in this genre-bending spectacle, where rock anthems collide with a 29-piece orchestra, powerhouse vocals, and electrifying visuals.

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Professional model. Individual results may vary.

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*Hertz-Kleptow D et al. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2019; 12:563-572. BELOTERO® Revive is an injectable resorbable implant intended to treat early-signs of photodamaged skin via rehydration of dry and very dry skin and smoothening of superficial fine lines. BELOTERO® Revive is indicated for treatment of early signs of photodamaged facial skin, as characterised by dehydration and presence of superficial fine lines. You should tell your practitioner and avoid treatment with BELOTERO® if you: have had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients; if you tend to develop keloids or heavy scars; have any bleeding disorders, poor wound healing, inflamed or infected skin, general infection or active auto-immune disease; are under the age of 18; are pregnant or breastfeeding. Please inform your practitioner of any diseases you have or have had. These include in particular cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, epilepsy, liver or kidney problems, skin infections or severe allergies. If you take medication or vitamins, have had previous cosmetic procedures, or have been treated with other implants, please inform your practitioner. Always read the label and consult your Healthcare Professional for more information. This medical device must be administered by a Healthcare Professional. For information about how Merz handles personal data, please see Merz General Data Protection Information Notice at www.merz.com/fin Copyright © 2024. Merz Australia Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. BELOTERO®, Merz Aesthetics and the Merz Aesthetics logo are registered trademarks of Merz Pharma GMbH & Co. KGaA.Merz Australia Pty Ltd (ACN: 151 073 559) Sydney, Australia. Ph: 1800 268 820. Web: www.merzaustralia.com.au. Pharmacy Retailing NZ Limited t/a Health Care Logistics (HCL). 58 Richard Pearse Drive, Mangere, Auckland 2022. For more information please phone 0800 822 310. June 2025. TAPSMR12042.

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