Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Sam Stewart | 25 Jun 2025
From the serene shores of Waiheke Island to the alpine landscape of Central Otago, Swiftsure by Man O’ War captures the spirit of a country defined by contrast. Perched just above Buckingham Green in the heart of Arrowtown, this newly opened South Island bistro is more than a restaurant — it’s the physical expression of Swiftsure Vineyards, and the next evolution of Man O’ War’s ever-expanding story.
The CANTERBURY CONFIT DUCK LEG paired with Swiftsure’s 2022 Bannockburn Pinot Noir
As the southern sibling to Waiheke’s beloved beachfront tasting room, Swiftsure embodies the same ethos — bold wines, warm hospitality, and a deep sense of place — now told through the rugged lens of the South. With its sunlit terraces, fireside corners, cosy banquettes, and sweeping alpine views, the space is as suited to après-ski as it is to long lunches, easy dinners, and celebratory evenings. The eatery is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner — just in time for what is shaping up to be an exceptional ski season.
In the kitchen, Head Chef Yann Robert (ex-Amisfield, Jervois Steak House) brings a grounded elegance to the menu. His approach is seasonal and generous, with a hint of the unexpected, anchored by South Island produce and the kind of flavour-forward cooking that satisfies in every season. Think roasted quail with mushroom hollandaise, venison black pudding, sensational whitebait fritters, and a wagyu burger that’s fast becoming a local favourite. The menu also includes thoughtful vegetarian options, a stellar kids’ offering, and a share-size wood-fired lamb shoulder that simply shouldn’t be missed.
The wine list is a journey in itself, uniting Man O’ War’s coastal Waiheke icons with alpine vineyards in Marlborough and Bannockburn. Whether you’re after a rare library vintage, or a glass of something new, the list invites exploration — no occasion required. There are, of course, also crafted cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic options aplenty.
Relaxed yet refined, Swiftsure by Man O’ War brings a new energy to Arrowtown — a place to pause, reconnect, and savour the very best of the great south.
This winter, a globally acclaimed exhibition lands in Tāmaki Makaurau — and with it, an extraordinary opportunity to experience the work of one of the world’s most enigmatic and era-defining artists. The Art of Banksy, opening on the 7th of July at the Hunua Rooms in the Aotea Centre, brings together the largest collection of authenticated Banksy artworks ever assembled — over 150 pieces including original prints, canvases, and one-off sketches. For the Banksy-curious and diehard fans alike, this is a chance to see pieces that are typically hidden away in private collections.
Fresh from a two-year residency in London and stops in 18 cities worldwide, The Art of Banksy promises an immersive, revelatory experience. Beyond his best-known works like Girl With Balloon (shown here in four colour-ways, including the rare Gold Edition), the exhibition delves deeper — showcasing personalised prints, early sketches, and fragments from projects like Dismaland. Many of the pieces on display were gifted by Banksy to friends and collaborators, making this not just an exhibition, but a glimpse behind the curtain.
Dismaland
“Flower Thrower”, also known as “Love is in the Air”
Whether you’re drawn to his sharp social commentary, his irreverent humour, or the mystery that still surrounds him, this is a rare and timely opportunity to engage with work that continues to challenge, provoke, and inspire. A cornerstone of Auckland’s winter cultural calendar, The Art of Banksy is not to be missed — book your tickets
The Art of Banksy Hunua Rooms, Aotea Centre
Opening Times: Mon 7 Jul – Sun 3 Aug Mon — Wed: 10am to 6pm Thu — Sun: 10am to 9pm
Lily Clempson, through her brand LilyEve, is looking at luxury through a new lens. Transforming vintage Hermès pieces — from blankets to silk scarves and towels — into covetable coats, jackets, and accessories, Clempson and her longtime collaborator, 91-year-old Michel, are carving out their own niche, prioritising authenticity over ostentation, and timeless craftsmanship over fleeting trends.
Lily Clempson and longtime collaborator, 91-year-old Michel
In a world where fast fashion dominates the sartorial sphere, Lily Clempson has forged a path that is both purposeful and personal. LilyEve — the brand she founded post-lockdown, celebrates sustainability, true craftsmanship, transparency, and a fresh take on luxury, guided by a singular philosophy: fashion should be as meaningful as it is beautiful.
Behind LilyEve is Clempson herself, who runs the brand, and Michel — a 91-year-old Quebec native with a storied history in the fashion world — whose hands-on approach to production has been integral to the unlikely pair’s success. It’s their shared commitment to authenticity, craftsmanship, and a reverence for the processes of design that makes the brand a standout in an industry often criticised for its relentless pace and lack of transparency.
From hand-sewing face masks in Long Island, pieced together from her mother’s vintage Hermès towels in lockdown, to opening a showroom on Madison Avenue in New York, Clempson’s journey into the fashion world has been a masterclass in serendipity.
Lily Clempson
Originally from London, Clempson moved to New York to study graphic design at Parsons School of Design, following which she assumed she’d “climb the corporate ladder.” But, as reality would have it, fate intervened. Lockdown coincided with Clempson graduating, and, outside of a few odd jobs, no one was hiring. At the same time, holed up at her parents’ East Hampton home with nothing but time on her hands, the luxe face masks she had created began to garner attention on social media, and before she knew it, neighbours began reaching out to request custom pieces — handing over vintage items they had in their wardrobes for Clempson to transform. “I stumbled into this custom niche,” she recalls, “But I was a terrible sewer, and I pretty quickly realised I needed help.”
Not only was Michel an excellent sewer, but had decades worth of back catalogues the pair drew on, from the 35-years he spent running a women’s fashion boutique in East Hampton with his late partner, Wayne. Two jacket patterns in particular — one of which was originally cut from one of Michel’s mother’s vintage Dior suits — ended up forming the basis of LilyEve’s most sought-after designs, modernised slightly by the pair to resonate in a contemporary setting.
Clempson never dreamt LilyEve would grow to what it stands as today — a label that has garnered a growing global community of satorialists who seek something beyond the latest fleeting trend. “I never imagined I’d be here,” she reflects, “It will never not be exciting to see someone check out on the website, or walk out of the boutique with a piece. I just love what we’re doing, and I feel so lucky to call this work.”
Her early years based in East Hampton allowed her the space to experiment and hone the brand’s design sensibility. However, it was a leap of faith that brought Clempson to the heart of New York City, where, in September of 2024, she opened a showroom on Madison Avenue. The showroom is not just a retail space, but doubles as her office, a hub for shipping, customer appointments, and the beating heart of the brand. Here, she balances the operations of the business, from overseeing the website to photographing new collections and everything in between. For Clempson, it’s not just about creating a product, but cultivating a brand experience that feels personal, intimate, and wholly unique.
What sets LilyEve apart from other luxury labels is the inherently sustainable nature of how they produce clothing and accessories. But, as Clempson is quick to point out, the entire industry is making strides in this respect, with many of the key design houses beginning to embrace more responsible practices, “Some brands are even beginning to use their dead stock for collections,” she points out, adding that an aspiration of hers is to collaborate with some of these brands in the future.
Lily’s partnership with Michel is also pivotal in her pursuit of sustainability. Together, they transform items that may otherwise lie dormant in a cupboard into pieces that tell a deeper story, honouring both the beauty of the fabric and the craftsmanship that goes into each item. For Michel, working in his basement studio — where jackets are created by hand — might seem unglamorous, but for Clempson, it’s the authentic story of the process that resonates most with their customers. “It’s messy. It’s unexpected — given the items we’re producing, that they’re made in this way. And people love to know the story behind what they’re buying,” she explains, referencing their approach to transparency. It’s this authenticity, this willingness to show the not-so-glamourous behind-the-scenes, that has garnered such a loyal following.
Clempson continues to champion the idea that transparency in production is an essential part of building a brand that truly connects with its customers. “I think people want to see where what they buy is coming from. They like seeing our process.” She recounts how the very first brand video LilyEve made was not just about showcasing their product, but about sharing the person behind the process: Michel, a man whose work has become as integral to the brand’s identity as the jackets themselves. “Michel’s just a huge hit. And why wouldn’t he be?” Lily laughs, acknowledging that his skill and charm have won over more than just their direct customers. The personal touch of having a designer who’s hands-on in every aspect of the creation process is a rarity in today’s world of mass production.
“I asked around for a seamstress, and was introduced to my now 91-year-old business partner Michel… He had a whole basement full of sewing machines.”
Despite her dedication to quality and sustainability, Clempson recognises that the luxury experience of shopping has changed over the years. Reflecting on her own experiences with department stores and luxury shops, she shares, “I feel like it’s lost that true luxury element. The rarity and exclusivity.” The experience of finding a unique item, something timeless to be cherished, has been diluted by the sheer volume of trends that now dominate the fashion world. “If something is trending, I feel like I see it on everyone walking down the street, even if it’s high-end.”
For Clempson, it’s not about latching onto trends, but about crafting pieces that stand the test of time — items that can be appreciated for their quality, their artistry, and their longevity. She believes this is what her customers are seeking: a connection to the product, a deeper understanding of its origins, and an appreciation for its individuality. “I think just being open and authentic and not always just putting something polished out there has helped us,” she says, a sentiment that speaks to the heart of the brand’s identity. It’s not centred on selling — it’s about sharing a story and inviting people into the journey.
Michel’s craftsmanship plays an essential role in the brand’s ability to stay true to its essence and produce pieces that are built to last. “Michel is incredible at what he does. He has sewn his whole life, and it lights him up,” Clempson explains, “He truly is wonderfully talented.” Despite the high demand, they refuse to compromise on quality. Every jacket is still crafted by hand in Michel’s studio from vintage Hermès blankets, ensuring that each garment is entirely one of a kind. Their inventory might fluctuate depending on customer demand, but the core of the brand remains focused on authenticity. “We don’t work on a seasonal basis. What I can source, we then make,” Clempson shares. The result is a boutique inventory, exclusive yet accessible in its design, with each piece carefully crafted and tailored to best honour what it started out as.
Looking ahead, Clempson’s goals for LilyEve remain grounded in her core values: sustainability, craftsmanship, and personal connection. While she, refreshingly, does not have her eyes trained on profits and rapid expansion, Clempson is committed to continuously evolving the brand with thoughtful innovation.
“There’s no grand plan for the future. We just keep going,” she says with a smile, underscoring her belief in steady, sustainable growth. Her dream to collaborate with other brands, recycling their dead stock — taking it from their factories and transforming it into something entirely new — remains a long-term goal. But, for now, her focus remains on perfecting what LilyEve does best: creating pieces that are as timeless as they are meaningful.
The brand is a beautiful reflection of the values that matter most in today’s world of fast fashion: sustainability, transparency, and a deep commitment to craftsmanship. Clempson’s journey into the fashion world might have been unplanned, but it has evolved into a story of passion, dedication, and authenticity — she is living a dream that she never saw coming. With Michel by her side, and a growing community of customers who appreciate the heart behind the product, LilyEve is poised to make its mark on the fashion industry, one meticulously crafted coat at a time.
Kings Truffles has become a byword for excellence in New Zealand’s truffle scene. Supplying some of the finest black truffle in the country, the family-run operation is known not only for its premium product, but for its deep-rooted expertise and warm, hands-on approach. And while their truffles appear in top kitchens across the country, the true magic lies in the source — and they’re inviting you to experience it firsthand.
Each winter, Kings Truffles opens the gates to their beloved truffière for a series of exclusive truffle hunts. It’s a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes, witness the alchemy of nature, and to share in a moment of seasonal abundance. So, if you’re partial, and find yourself in Canterbury this season, add one of these unmissable experiences to your winter itinerary.
This relaxed and convivial morning offers a chance to meet the Kings Truffles team (and their charismatic, highly-trained truffle dogs), learn about the science and mystery of truffle cultivation, and — best of all — uncover fresh truffles from the soil yourself. You’ll enjoy tastings onsite and plenty of time to ask questions and soak up the setting. Tickets are limited, and this annual event sells out quickly.
Fridays in June, July, and August (Min 8 / Max 20 guests)
Tailored for truffle-loving friends, families or corporate groups, private hunts offer a bespoke, immersive experience. Discover truffle hunting techniques, savour freshly unearthed truffle, and perhaps opt to add on a picnic or even a helicopter ride. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime culinary encounter.
With quiet confidence and characteristically meticulous design, Omega has introduced a new chapter in its storied legacy of women’s watchmaking. The international launch of the Aqua Terra 30 mm, unveiled at an exclusive event in Kyoto Japan, signals a thoughtful evolution — one that acknowledges the changing rhythms of modern life while remaining rooted in the brand’s revered technical heritage.
Aislinn Derbez at OMEGA’s Aqua Terra Event in Kyoto
Marisa Abela at OMEGA’s Aqua Terra Event in Kyoto
Melissa Satta at OMEGA’s Aqua Terra Event in Kyoto
Karla Souza at OMEGA’s Aqua Terra Event in Kyoto
Held at Kyoto’s striking Shogunzuka Seiryuden, the event unfolded as an elegant evening of sensory discovery. Guests moved through voile-draped installations blending traditional Japanese artistry with modern design, gradually revealing the watch’s distinct expressions. With campaign ambassadors including Ashley Graham, Tems, and Ariana DeBose in attendance, the night celebrated both Omega’s technical innovation and the undeniable allure of the Aqua Terra 30 mm.
The twelve references that define the collection are each rendered in vibrant hues and elevated materials — think 18K Moonshine™ Gold and Sedna™ Gold, stainless steel, and seamless two-tone combinations. The case size, a first for the Aqua Terra line, offers a refined 30 mm silhouette, striking a balance between contemporary wearability and timeless elegance.
SeamasterAqua Terra, 30 mm in steel on steel
Seamaster Aqua Terra, 30 mm in steel ‑ Moonshine gold on steel ‑ Moonshine gold
Inside, however, lies the true revelation. Omega’s newly engineered calibres — the Master Chronometer Calibre 8750 and 8751 — are bespoke to this smaller scale. They exemplify the Maison’s commitment to mechanical mastery, with magnetic resistance to 15,000 gauss, a co-axial escapement, and a 48-hour power reserve. As President and CEO Raynald Aeschlimann notes, “The most beautiful part of the watch is the one you cannot immediately see. Our new calibres represent Omega’s highest expression of precision engineering, hidden within yet defining the watch’s essence.” Here, what’s hidden defines everything.
Omega’s highest expression of precision engineering
This sense of personal discovery is echoed in the accompanying campaign, ‘My Little Secret‘, which casts the Aqua Terra as both an intimate treasure and a conversation starter. Through rhythmic, cinematic vignettes, the watch is passed between six global women of influence — including Academy Award-winning actress Ariana DeBose, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Tems, model, entrepreneur, and advocate Ashley Graham, K-pop artist Danielle Marsh, BAFTA-winning actress Marisa Abela, and Sunday Rose Kidman Urban — each styling it in their own intuitive way. The message? Some things are simply too beautiful to keep to yourself.
Left to right: Tems, Ariana DeBose, Ashley Graham & Sunday Rose Kidman Urban
At once deeply personal and universally elegant, the Aqua Terra 30 mm is Omega at its most discreetly daring — a technical triumph wrapped in quiet luxury.
Come winter, when the inclement weather sets in and all you crave is comfort, a Sunday roast is perhaps the most satisfying, soul-warming salve on offer. Dating back to medieval England, what was once a post-church tradition has evolved into a weekly ritual at dinner tables across the country — and many of the city’s most loved eateries are stepping things up a notch to spare you the dishes and take the once-humble roast to delicious new heights.
Here, we round up the best elevated takes on a Sunday roast in the city, from speciality cuts with curated trimmings to all-out feasts, so all that’s left to do is see out the week in style.
Jervois Steak House has resurrected its famed wagyu Sunday roast, perfect for winter indulgence. Ending each week with a comforting feast, here, the star of the show is a 12‑hour slow‑cooked Southern Stations wagyu rump — tender, rich, and utterly melt‑in‑the‑mouth. It’s served with all the comforts of tradition: wagyu‑fat roasted potatoes, creamy potato gratin, pillowy Yorkshire puddings, seasonal veg, and a glossy house‑made jus. Priced at $79pp (minimum two), with a $15 house wine option, JSH’s roast is available from 5pm every Sunday through June, July, and August — first‑come, first‑served, so book early!
The Pantry at Park Hyatt Auckland takes Sunday roast up a notch with its cosy waterfront setting in Wynyard Quarter. Every Sunday from 5pm–8pm, guests can indulge in a rotating roast — think perfectly seared meats — accompanied by seasonal vegetables, golden potatoes, and rich house-made gravy, all for just $38 per person. Ideal for ending the week in style, this offering brings warmth and simplicity without compromise. Gather family or friends, book a table, and treat yourselves to a comforting, quality roast by the water.
Hotel Ponsonby’s take on the Sunday roast is as delicious as one would expect, given the lively spot’s reputation on the food front. Choose between roasted picanha with horseradish and pink peppercorn gravy ($36) or a slow-roasted butternut pumpkin version with mushroom gravy ($32) — both served with crispy potatoes, glazed purple carrots, and Yorkshire pudding. It’s a contemporary, flavour-forward update on tradition, best paired with a wine match or something from the aperitif list. For dessert, don’t miss the mezcal-laced sticky toffee pudding with miso caramel and fig cream, or the lemon tart with bay leaf mascarpone, accompanied by a digestif to finish with a flourish.
Ki Māha delivers a sumptuous coastal twist on the classic Sunday roast. Set against the fireside ambiance of Onetangi Beach, this winter’s offering features a slow-roasted Lumina lamb shoulder nestled alongside crispy duck-fat potatoes, golden Yorkshire puddings, and pan-seared broccolini — with ethically farmed meats and seasonal produce taking centre stage. Available all day, this hearty feast can be paired for two with a bottle of Ki Māha’s Black Label Syrah for $169.
While not a classic roast, Bivacco’s Sunday Feast is more than worthy of a mention on this list. From 11 am to 4 pm, this lavish buffet celebrates seafood, wood-fired pizza, handmade pasta and a succulent carvery featuring prime beef, pork belly and lamb leg roast stuffed with Italian sausage. Seasonal antipasti, roast veggies, and duck-fat potatoes ensure you won’t go hungry, before capping it all off at the dessert station with tiramisu, pavlova, carrot cake and more. Add cocktails, champagne specials, and live DJs for a truly lively Sunday experience — all for $85pp ($35 for kids).
The 2025 Iconic Auckland Eats list, featuring 100 of Auckland’s top dishes as nominated by the public, has just been released — giving Aucklanders and those visiting a comprehensive guide to what to eat across the region. Developed annually, the list sits as a celebration of Auckland’s incredible, diverse culinary scene, highlighting beloved dishes in Tāmaki Makaurau.
Now in its fifth year, Iconic Auckland Eats was established by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited as a way to showcase the vibrancy of the region’s gastronomic offering, highlighting legendary dishes that range from fine dining to budget-friendly bites — covering everything in between, too. The 2025 list includes long-standing favourites, hidden gems, and exciting new discoveries, and the dishes, submitted for consideration by locals, capture the essence of Auckland, embodying the cultural melting pot and richness that makes the region so special.
Masu’s wagyu kimchi gyoza
When it comes to what’s included, many Denizen favourites made the cut — from Bar Magda’s Noel’s charcoal steak with soy butter, scallion, to Amano’s famous scampi pasta (swoon), Depot’s fish sliders — unsurprisingly on the list for five years running, Masu’s wagyu kimchi gyoza, and Hello Beasty’s moreish prawn & crab toast, making a very welcome return.
Amano’s famous scampi pasta
Icons like Eden Noodles’ dumplings in spicy sauce, FishSmith’s battered Westmere Butchery pork sausage, Gemmayze Street’s babaganouj, Federal Delicatessen’s chicken salad sandwich, Huami’s fruit wood roasted peking duck, and Cassia’s pani puri all feature, too, in amongst quirkier additions — from Rhu’s honey toast with whipped yoghurt and fruit, to Metita’s handpicked beef scotch, 55 day dry-aged, with palusami purée and ravigote, San Ray’s quinoa toast with smoked fish and pickled egg, Goat by Sid Chopra’s slow cooked goat marinated in aromatic spices, mustard oil, garlic, and green chilies, Tala’s raw ramen, and Ragtag’s duck carnitas tacos (a must try).
Hello Beasty’s moreish prawn & crab toast
As has been the case since the initiative’s inception, the variety of cuisines on the list reflects the incredible mix of ethnicities in Auckland, and each nominated dish has a story behind the submission, with locals sharing insight into what the dish means to them. This year saw record number of entries, with over 3,000 nomination food stories coming in.
Goat’s slow cooked goat marinated in aromatic spices, mustard oil, garlic, and green chilies
While reading through the thousands of submissions, Iconic Auckland Eats judges select their favourite entries that embody the list’s ethos. This year, five stand-out stories were chosen, with the writer of each receiving $500 worth of vouchers to spend at their top five restaurants featuring on the list.
So, be it inspiration for a venue to visit, or a specific dish to satisfy a craving, Iconic Auckland Eats’ top 100 list rounds up some of the top spots and dishes on menus across the region — sitting as an incredible resource for locals or those visiting from further afield.
While Kiwis have long looked east for their Australian escapes, to the beachy cities lining the coast, the wild majesty of the Kimberley awaits to the west — remote, rugged, and unlike anywhere else on the continent. For those seeking something beyond the expected, Ponant Explorations invites travellers to rediscover this extraordinary frontier in unmatched style.
Back by popular demand, Ponant Explorations’ Fly, Stay & Cruise package offers the most seamless way to experience the Kimberley region: return flights from major New Zealand cities, pre-cruise accommodation, and an all-inclusive, 10-night small-ship expedition aboard the elegant 184 Le Jacques Cartier or 264 passenger Le Soléal — all wrapped into one effortless journey. With Ponant Explorations’ signature French-inspired service, curated excursions, and rare access to ancient rock art, secluded reefs, and untamed waterfalls, this is adventure, elevated.
New for 2026, Australia’s West Coast Odyssey extends the journey from Broome to Fremantle (or reverse), unveiling UNESCO-listed wonders from Shark Bay to Ningaloo Coast. Here, sea lions, coral reefs, and centuries-old Aboriginal heritage coalesce in an 11-day voyage along one of the world’s most captivating coastlines.
Enjoy a Champagne Surprise on the King George River
The Darwin to Broome voyage (or reverse), Australia’s Iconic Kimberley voyage reveals a land shaped by time and tide. Over 11 days aboard Le Jacques Cartier or Le Soléal, guests are immersed in a cinematic landscape of towering gorges, ancient First Nation rock art (including a privileged visit to the sacred Gwion Gwion rock painting site estimated to be around 12,000 years old) and thriving wildlife. From the thunderous Twin Falls of the King George River to the crocodile-laced mangroves of the Hunter River, every day offers a new chapter in Australia’s last true wilderness.
Exploring the humbling landscape of the King George River on Zodiac
Whether tracing the King George River’s dramatic gorges or drifting through the Montebello Islands, every moment is infused with Ponant Explorations’ signature blend of luxury and immersion. Designed for those seeking stress-free adventure without compromise, these all-inclusive journeys take care of every detail — offering Kiwis a seamless, elevated way to discover Australia’s most remote and remarkable coastlines.
The Kimberley may be close to home, but it feels truly a world away.
*Package offer valid on new bookings only for 2026 Kimberley Luxury Expeditions itineraries. More conditions apply. Visit au.ponant.com/fly-stay-cruise-2026 for full terms and conditions. Advertised price is in Australia dollars (AUD), per person in a Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3. Price is correct at time of publishing and may change at any time without notice.
With yet another long weekend on the horizon, we’re loading up a cache of captivating new shows and planning a trip or two to the cinema. There is plenty to choose from on the new releases front, from Wes Anderson’s latest to side-splitting stand up, returning favourites back for a second season, and a romantic comedy that places Dakota Johnson in a love triangle with Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans — need we say more?
Materialists
When & Where to Watch: In cinemas now Starring: Dakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal, and Chris Evans
Dakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal, and Chris Evans star in Materialists, a sharp romantic comedy directed by Past Lives filmmaker Celine Song. Set in New York, the film follows a high-end matchmaker (Johnson) who becomes caught up in a love triangle of sorts with her ex (Evans) and her potential perfect match (Pascal).
The Phoenician Scheme
When & Where to Watch: In cinemas now Starring: Benicio Del Toro, Mia Threapleton, Michael Cera, Tom Hanks, and Scarlett Johansson
Wes Anderson’s latest film is a stylish espionage drama woven with betrayal and intrigue. Benicio del Toro stars as Zsa-zsa Korda, a wealthy patriarch entangled in a morally complex scheme alongside his daughter (Mia Threapleton), amid an all-star cast featuring Tom Hanks and Scarlett Johansson.
Echo Valley
When & Where to Watch: Out now, Apple TV+ Starring: Julianne Moore, Sydney Sweeney
In Echo Valley, Julianne Moore and Sydney Sweeney deliver a gripping thriller about a mother’s desperate fight to protect her daughter. When Claire (Sweeney) arrives bloodied and hysterical, Kate (Moore) unravels a harrowing truth, testing the limits of love and sacrifice. A taut, emotional journey from director Michael Pearce and writer Brad Ingelsby.
The Ritual
When & Where to Watch: Out now, Apple TV+ Starring: Al Pacino, Ashley Greene, and Dan Stevens
Al Pacino plays a seasoned exorcist in The Ritual, pulled into a harrowing case involving a possessed young woman, alongside Dan Stevens as a conflicted priest. Directed by David Midell, the film, inspired by true events, tows the line between psychological drama and supernatural horror.
Atsuko Okatsuka: Father
When & Where to Watch: Out now,Disney+ Starring: Atsuko Okatsuka
In Atsuko Okatsuka: Father, the acclaimed comedian returns with a disarmingly personal stand-up special that blends offbeat humour with heartfelt storytelling. Weaving tales of family, identity, and the surreal moments of everyday life, Okatsuka delivers a sharp, hilarious, and deeply human hour that cements her as one of comedy’s most original voices.
The Buccaneers — Season Two
When & Where to Watch: Out now, Apple TV+ Starring: Leighton Meester, Kristine Froseth, Guy Remmers, and Matthew Broome
The rebellious debutantes are back. In Season Two of The Buccaneers, alliances shift, hearts break, and the game of love grows even more treacherous. With Gilded Age glamour and biting wit, this glittering return dives deeper into the price of freedom — and what happens when girls refuse to play by the rules.
We Were Liars
When & Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Starring: Emily Alyn Lind, Caitlin FitzGerald, and Mamie Gummer
A dreamy summer. A privileged family. A terrible secret. We Were Liars unravels the haunting story of Cadence Sinclair Eastman and the fateful events that fracture everything she thought she knew. Atmospheric and emotionally charged, this adaptation of E. Lockhart’s bestselling novel is a slow-burn mystery about memory, love, and the lies we tell to survive.
The Waterfront
When & Where to Watch: June 19th, Netflix Starring: Holt McCallany, Maria Bello, Jake Weary, and Melissa Benoist
From Scream and Dawson’s Creek creator Kevin Williamson, The Waterfront follows the Buckley family as they fight to save their crumbling North Carolina fishing empire. With financial pressures mounting, they turn to dangerous alliances — like a volatile drug smuggler played by Topher Grace. Family, crime, and legacy collide in this gripping coastal drama.
Sean Connolly has once again expanded his horizons with the launch of Pavilion Bar & Kitchens. Framed by the dramatic backdrop of stunning scenery and humming with après-ski spirit, Pavilion Bar & Kitchens is Sean Connolly’s latest love letter to casual, yet elevated hospitality. Set in the heart of Queenstown, Pavilion is a lively, multi-sensory celebration of the beloved Central Otago region.
Sean Connolly
Open from early morning until late, seven days a week, Pavilion invites locals and travellers alike to gather, graze, and revel in the kind of generous, joyful dining that Connolly is renowned for. With three distinctly different offerings under one roof — Steak & Oyster Co., Ciao Brutto, and the Pavilion Bar — the venue is a spirited homage to both the culture and the landscape of this storied region.
Inside, the space is textured and tactile: natural basalt underfoot, aged leather banquettes fashioned from reclaimed sleepers, and glowing firepits set in boulders hauled from Timaru. Designed by Ignite with interiors by Izzard, the aesthetic draws directly from Queenstown’s alpine soul — raw, honest, and elemental.
Steak & Oyster Co.
At Steak & Oyster Co., Connolly’s signature tribute to surf and turf gets a Southern twist. Butcher-style counters and an open-fire grill set the tone for a menu of premium cuts and ocean-fresh seafood, all sourced from local growers and fishers who share Connolly’s reverence for quality, seasonal produce.
Ciao Brutto
Left: Pavilion Bar
Elsewhere within the sweeping space, Ciao Brutto keeps things rustic and raucous. Named after the affectionate Italian greeting, the pizzeria and pasta bar is anchored by twin wood-fired ovens with a dedicated dough room upstairs, producing up to 800 pizzas a day — each one a delicious ode to shared conviviality.
And then there’s the Pavilion Bar — a breezy, indoor-outdoor affair serving cocktails with local flair and a curated list of regional wines and craft brews.
Add to that a rotating line-up of live music, DJs, and local performers, as well as exclusive private dining and dedicated event spaces, and you’ve got a venue that hums from morning flat whites to night-time negronis.
Left to Right: Sean Connolly & Tomoya Kodera
Behind it all is Connolly’s trusted team, including Executive Chef Tomoya Kodera, whose Japanese roots and Italian training bring finesse to every plate.
At once intimate and expansive, Pavilion is Queenstown’s new communal hub — where the fire’s always lit, the plates are passed generously, and good times roll long into the night.
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