Discover The Hotel Britomart’s personalised approach to modern luxury travel

Words Sjaan Askwith | 21 May 2025

Curated travel is no longer a niche idea — it’s fast becoming the new benchmark for luxury. Today’s travellers are increasingly trading off-the-shelf itineraries for experiences that speak to who they are. The desire is clear: authenticity over artifice, intentionality over excess. From hyper-personalised stays to regenerative encounters that deepen connection to the place they’re discovering, curated travel reflects a profound shift in the way we explore the world. And nowhere is this movement more elegantly embodied than at The Hotel Britomart. Set in the heart of Auckland’s Britomart precinct, this design-led hotel offers more than accommodation — it offers an experience shaped entirely by the guest, transforming a holiday into something much more meaningful.

A Curated Stay – The Landing Suite Experience

Enjoy rooftop living at its best in The Poraenui Suite

At the pinnacle of The Hotel Britomart’s offering is The Landing Suite Experience. Crafted for the discerning traveller, these lodge-style suites offer a rare balance of contemporary refinement and soulful intention, where every detail is curated to reflect the guest’s own preferences, rhythms and tastes. From bespoke welcome amenities to itinerary suggestions, it’s a stay that feels not only luxurious, but deeply personal.

Each of the five suites is named after a bay or significant landmark at The Landing, the acclaimed Bay of Islands retreat with design that blends understated elegance with natural materials and tactile finishes — bringing the warmth of The Landing’s coastal residences into the heart of downtown Auckland. But the curated offering extends well beyond the suite itself.

Relax and unwind in The Poraenui Suite with views across the city and Takutai Square

Guests enjoy a daily breakfast, complimentary non-alcoholic minibar, transfers to and from Auckland Airport (or anywhere within a 20km radius), and access to Les Mills gym in Britomart, including all classes. A dedicated host is also on hand before, during, and after your stay, curating every detail as much as you like, including the option for a guided neighbourhood tour, providing a deeper connection to Britomart’s vibrant mix of design, food, art, and retail.

The Landing Suite guests are also invited to unwind in The Libraries — a sequence of private, design-led spaces within the hotel where refined hospitality meets quiet charm. Whether for a pre-dinner drink, a nightcap, or simply a pause between city adventures, The Libraries offer a calm extension of the Landing Suite’s considered approach.

Book a stay at The Landing Suites.

Tailored Culinary Encounters – The Chef’s Table

Dining here is a deeply sensory affair. The Chef’s Table at The Libraries invites guests to co-design a bespoke menu with the clever culinary team, transforming a meal into a shared creative journey. Whether inspired by a nostalgic dish, seasonal New Zealand ingredients, or even a mood they wish to explore, this interactive, story-rich dining experience transforms a meal into a shared creative journey, catering to the growing global appetite for immersive travel where the focus shifts from simply seeing to meaningfully doing.

Left: Chef and Kingi co-founder Tom Hishon preparing a dish from a bespoke menu. Right: Unwind in The Libraries Lounge

This spirit of curated connection continues in The Libraries Lounge, tucked within the 140-year-old Buckland-Masonic Building. One of Auckland’s most intimate spaces, it offers a quiet, characterful space to unwind — from heritage staircases and glimpses of original wallpaper to a bespoke bar stocked with thoughtfully selected local and international wines and top-shelf spirits. Whether you’re enjoying a pre-dinner aperitif, a leisurely afternoon drink, or a late-night conversation, The Libraries is a place to pause, reflect, and savour — where every detail invites deeper discovery.

Book The Chef’s Table at The Libraries.

The Best of Britomart – A Curated Shopping & Lifestyle District

the Britomart precinct is just steps from The Hotel Britomart

Surrounded by over 65 boutiques and eateries, The Hotel Britomart’s neighbourhood is a gateway to curated discovery. From global luxury retailers to the best of local fashion and design, as well as a host of world-class eateries, there are endless ways to spend your days. Those seeking guidance can embark on a tailored shopping experience with access to personal styling appointments, private shopping experiences, and insider recommendations, all curated by the in-house hotel concierge. It’s shopping redefined as storytelling — experiential, intentional, and refreshingly slow.

Guests can enjoy over 65 boutiques, bars, eateries, and wellness offerings

Discover The Hotel Britomart’s neighbourhood.

Regenerative Experiences – Nourishing Nature

connect more deeply with nature and community with The Hotel Britomart’s ‘Nourishing Nature’ offering

For those seeking purpose alongside pleasure, The Hotel Britomart’s Nourishing Nature offering is a regenerative travel experience rooted in connection — to land, people, and place. Moving beyond sustainability, which focuses on minimising impact, this guest-led initiative invites travellers to actively contribute, leaving a positive imprint on the destination.

Dine in the open-air glasshouse in New Zealand’s lush native rainforest

At The Hotel Britomart, this ethos is embodied in the Native Forest Farm experience — a guided half-day outing into the Waitākere Ranges. Guests forage for native herbs and ingredients used in top Auckland restaurants, learn about their cultural and ecological significance, then enjoy a forest feast in an open-air glasshouse, paired with artisan foods and native-infused drinks. The experience ends with guests planting a native sapling — grown at The Landing — as a personal contribution to the forest’s restoration. Low-impact travel, local produce, and deep storytelling make this a richly rewarding, future-facing encounter.

Book the Nourishing Nature experience.

At The Hotel Britomart, curation isn’t a service — it’s a philosophy. One that meets the modern traveller where they are, and invites them to go further.

thehotelbritomart.com

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We chat to revered designer Karim Rashid on functionalism, following his intuition, and how design can shape the future

Words Sjaan Askwith | 21 May 2025

In the world of contemporary design, where form often wrestles with function and innovation must be tempered by purpose, Karim Rashid has forged a career that transcends aesthetics. His work, spanning decades and disciplines, reflects a philosophy rooted in sensual minimalism — an approach that champions warmth, humanity, and the intrinsic beauty of everyday objects. But beyond the striking silhouettes and thoughtful functionality of his designs lies a deeply personal journey, one shaped by an eclectic upbringing, a lifelong pursuit of excellence, and an unwavering belief in the power of design to shape the future. Here, we catch up with the designer ahead of his address at Auckland Design Week.

From Cairo to Rome, Paris to London, and eventually across the Atlantic to Canada, Karim Rashid’s early years were shaped by a constant state of movement — a life lived across cultures, continents, and artistic landscapes. Born in 1960 to an Egyptian father and a British mother, he was immersed in a world where creativity was innate. His father, a designer for Egyptian television and later a collaborator with Cinecittà in Rome, fostered an environment rich in artistic expression. Pencils, markers, and paper were always within reach, and the act of creating became as natural as breathing, “We were brought up in an extremely inspiring context that gave me great respect for all of the arts,” Rashid muses.

Speed table for Riva 1920 by Karim Rashid from Matisse

Despite this creative upbringing, the path to design was not always a clear choice. As a teenager, he grappled with indecision, struggling to decide whether to pursue architecture, fine arts, or fashion. His future seemed spread across multiple disciplines. When he applied to Carleton University at just 16, the architectural program was already full, steering him instead towards industrial design. Fate, as it turned out, had intervened. It was there, amidst engineering, philosophy, and design courses, that he found his true calling: shaping the objects that define our everyday lives.

His education was more than just training in design — it was an immersion in broader intellectual pursuits. Studying in a program that had yet to establish rigid boundaries, Rashid explored everything from engineering to architecture, philosophy to language. It was this holistic approach that laid the foundation for his distinctive design sensibility — one rooted not just in aesthetics but in function, human behaviour, and emotional connection.

“Every object in our lives has the potential to inspire… But they must work. Good design is about solving problems, not just creating beautiful things.”

After graduating, Rashid made for the home of design — Italy. A one-year graduate program placed him under the tutelage of two design luminaries: Gaetano Pesce and Ettore Sottsass. Sottsass’s architecture group, Memphis, with its bold, humanistic design ethos, proved a revelation to Rashid. Sottsass, in particular, imparted a lesson that would stay with him: “There are many beautiful design objects, but you have to ask — what do they do for us? What is left, if you take the design away?” That question would become the guiding principle of his career.

For Rashid, inspiration is an intuitive process — one shaped by years of observation, interaction, and immersion in the minutiae of daily life. He looks to the everyday, seeking to elevate the seemingly banal into something poetic and functional. “Every object in our lives has the potential to inspire,” he muses. “But they must work. Good design is about solving problems, not just creating beautiful things.”

This belief has carried through his extensive body of work, which spans furniture, interiors, product design, and brand collaborations. Whether it’s the Alessi Kaj, a soft and sensual yet practical timepiece, or the Cadmo lamp for Artemide, a sculptural embodiment of light and shadow, his work speaks to a humanistic approach. His designs are not about imposing a singular aesthetic but about crafting experiences — products that feel lived in and familiar, yet wholly original.

Voxel collection for Vondom by Karim Rashid

Over the years, his design philosophy has evolved but never wavered. He defines his approach as ‘sensual minimalism’ — a balance of warmth, tactility, and reductive form. “I want to show the world that a contemporary physical environment can be soft, human, and pleasurable,” he says. It’s a philosophy evident in everything from his Voxel collection for Vondom — an exploration of angular yet inviting forms — to the Kosmos series for MIDJ, an ode to space-age optimism blended with the comfort of organic forms.

His disdain for specialisation has led him to a career that is impossible to categorise. From product design to interiors, branding to academic lecturing, he sees no reason to be confined to one discipline. “I have always admired creatives who touch every facet of visual culture,” he explains. “I promised myself that if I ever had my own practice, it would be broad. I wanted to shape the world around me in every possible way.”

With a practice that spans continents and time zones, he has embraced the digital age with characteristic enthusiasm. WhatsApp and Zoom now facilitate collaborations across the globe, allowing his studio to function as a truly international entity. “It’s marvelous,” he says simply. “Technology has given us the ability to create without boundaries.”

BREEZ 2.0 SUNBED for Talenti BY KARIM RASHID

Reflecting on his most defining works, he points to a handful of projects that encapsulate his design ethos. The Bobble water bottle — a universally beloved object, embodies his belief in accessible, functional beauty. Method’s hand soap, with its sculptural yet practical form, demonstrated that good design could exist at an affordable price. And then there’s the Naples Metro — a project spanning nearly a decade, where design met infrastructure to create a space that was as aesthetically compelling as it was practical.

In his view, the greatest shift in design over the past few decades is consumer intelligence. “The average consumer is no longer passive,” he asserts. “People have access to unlimited information. They can compare, research, and educate themselves. Brands must now operate with greater transparency and innovation.” Technology, too, has transformed the landscape. From 3D printing to bioplastics, he sees endless opportunities for design to push boundaries. “If you’re not innovating, you’re not designing — you’re just styling.”

BowlKRB-5 for Bitossi BY KARIM RASHID from Matisse

For all the challenges that have come with his three-decade career — navigating business hurdles, protecting originality in a digital age, pioneering in a market that often resists change — he remains undeterred. His greatest lessons? That design is a collaborative act, a merging of minds and visions. That relationships — whether with clients, collaborators, or users — are at the heart of meaningful design.

Looking ahead, his schedule remains packed. New collaborations with Alessi, Natuzzi, and Vondom are on the horizon. A major re-brand of a heritage Austrian brand is in the pipeline. Architectural elements for private residences, new hotels across Europe, a bar redesign for Berlin’s Nhow Hotel are also occupying spaces in his mind. At any given time, his practice juggles upwards of 40 projects — each an opportunity to refine, redefine, and reimagine the physical world.

Through it all, his guiding tenet remains the same: design must serve. It must be human, innovative, and, above all, meaningful. In a world increasingly defined by fleeting trends, his work stands as a testament to enduring vision — one that shapes not just objects, but the way we live with them.

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Take a Tour: Matteo House by Trinity Architects is an ode to fluidity

Words Sjaan Askwith | 16 May 2025

Photography — Timothy Kaye

Tucked into the leafy enclave of Melbourne’s Toorak, Matteo House by Trinity Architects is an ode to fluidity, form, and seamless dialogue between architecture and landscape.

Born from the challenges of a constrained footprint and a sloping site, Trinity Architect’s Matteo house (or the ‘House of Curves’ as its now become known) stands out for its sense of fluidity. A series of undulating forms seamlessly bring together its interior and exterior spaces across a host of meticulously mapped out, interconnected rooms — guiding inhabitants from one space to the next.

From the elliptical void that connects the ground and first floors to the spiral staircase that defines the foyer, each detail inspires exploration. A central glass elevator, crafted by Aritco, further enhances this sense of openness, affording inhabitants uninterrupted views of the myriad striking architectural elements across the home’s multiple floors.

Set on the edge of a lush reserve, the architecture, defined by sweeping lines and a bold yet timeless presence, takes subtle cues from Toorak’s rich Art Deco heritage while forging its own distinct language. Rather than adhering to a single aesthetic, the design is fluid, embracing its environment and framing the landscape — with a particular emphasis on the towering eucalyptus trees dotted across the site.

“Light plays a crucial role in the home’s design, casting dynamic shadows across curved ceilings and reflecting the contours of the cantilevered canopies.”

The material palette is a study in understated luxury. Marble, glass, and sculptural stone set a serene, tactile foundation, contrasted by warm timber and plush loop carpets. The furniture and décor, curated with an eye to both durability and artistry, was largely sourced from boutique artisans, and lends the otherwise stoic palette a more lived-in quality.

Scandal long pendant lamp by Articolo from ECC

“The furniture and décor, curated with an eye to both durability and artistry, lends the otherwise stoic palette a more lived-in quality.”

The ground floor transitions seamlessly from living spaces to the outdoors, with expansive glazing framing the pool and garden. While, elsewhere, light plays a crucial role in the home’s design, casting dynamic shadows across curved ceilings and reflecting the contours of the cantilevered canopies.

Below ground, the basement offers a darker counterpoint to the light-filled levels above: a sleek sanctuary where a suspended wall of wine, a rotating car plate, and a cinema lounge rendered
in deep, moody tones, form a space as dramatic as it is inviting.

“despite the home’s obvious grandeur, at its core, Matteo is a house designed to be lived in.”

The rooftop offers a serene retreat, where white walls curve into the azure sky, embodying the house’s minimalist ethos. Inside, muted tones and organic forms dominate, creating a calming backdrop for moments of subtle drama, like the cascading glass spheres suspended within the void.

But, despite the home’s obvious grandeur, at its core, Matteo is a house designed to be lived in. As functional as it is evocative, balancing private sanctuaries with inviting entertainment areas in a series of spaces that celebrate the fluidity of life, this is a home which grants its inhabitants a fresh perspective on contemporary luxury living.

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Meet Normanby Fine Wine & Spirits — the new wine retail destination, bar, and café you need to know

Words Sjaan Askwith | 14 May 2025

Opening its doors this Thursday (May 15th) in Mount Eden, Normanby Fine Wine & Spirits is the highly anticipated flagship from Liz Wheadon — a name that carries weight in the world of wine. With more than 30 years of experience, and a reputation for both curation and connection, Wheadon has long been a champion of accessible, engaging wine experiences. Normanby is the culmination of that vision: part retail space, part casual wine bar and café, part beautifully designed neighbourhood destination that feels as considered as the bottles on its shelves.

Left: Liz Wheadon, Director of Wine. Right: Zane Winskill, Wine Sales Specialist.

With more than 1,300 wines, sakes, spirits and craft beers to discover, many sourced through Wheadon’s longstanding international relationships, Normanby’s offering is curated with care — rare finds alongside everyday favourites, all chosen for their story, provenance, and drinkability. But this isn’t a place for gatekeeping or pretension. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, you’ll find warm, knowledgeable guidance from a team who love what they do, within a space thoughtfully designed around how people actually discover, shop for, and enjoy fine wine, spirits, sake, and craft beer.

“We wanted to create something we couldn’t quite find elsewhere — an environment where choosing wine, spirits and sake, whether in person or online, is enjoyable, approachable, and genuinely interesting, no matter your taste or budget. Normanby is fine wine and spirits — done differently — and we’re incredibly excited to open our doors to a new era of retail,” says Wheadon.

The experience extends beyond retail. Normanby’s rotating by-the-glass list encourages easy exploration, while any bottle in-store can be enjoyed onsite for a simple corkage. There’s a thoughtful food offering designed to complement the wines and spirits — think anchovies on toast, chicken liver pâté, and Basque-style cheesecake — plus coffee and pastries each morning via a welcoming street-side window. Deli fare and artisanal breads by Sabato are available for you to savour at home with a bottle (or two) of your choosing, too, and pre-batched cocktails from Theo Mynott (formerly of Panacea) add another layer of intrigue, rounding out a space designed to move with the rhythms of the day.

Normanby’s dedicated private tasting room, La Cave, further adds to the offering. With capacity for up to 15 guests, this intimate space caters to private celebrations, tastings, and small events — details of which can be found here.

Inside, the interiors (curated by The Estate at Webb’s and designed by the experts at CTRL-Space) blur the line between gallery and gathering place — a tactile, lived-in space filled with furniture and objects available to buy, just like the bottles. The entire ever-evolving collection of furniture, art, and objet d’art are all available to purchase, bringing the ‘try before you buy’ model into a contemporary setting.

Normanby is a place that recognises the joy of discovery, the beauty of sharing knowledge, and the value of slowing down. It’s a destination shaped by taste and intuition, grounded in experience but always future-facing.

Normanby Fine Wine & Spirits invites you to linger, ask questions, and take something home — whether that’s a great bottle, a new favourite producer, or simply a better way of enjoying the moment.

Opening:
Thursday 15th May

Café opening hours:
Monday — Wednesday, 7.30am until 4pm
Thursday — Friday, 7.30am until 4pm
Saturday — Sunday, 8am until 4pm

Wine Bar opening hours:
Monday — Wednesday: 11am until 8pm
Thursday — Friday: 11am until 10pm
Saturday, 11am until 9pm
Sunday, 11am until 4pm

Retail Store hours:
Monday — Saturday: 9am until 9pm
Sunday: 9am until 4pm

normanbyfinewines.co.nz

Normanby Fine Wine & Spirits

31a Normanby Road,
Mount Eden

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SO/ Auckland and Mt Cook Alpine Salmon have teamed up for the caviar event of the season

Words Sjaan Askwith | 14 May 2025

Move over Bluffies — there’s a new seasonal delicacy in town. To mark the beginning of New Zealand’s caviar season, Mt Cook Alpine Salmon and SO/ Auckland are inviting guests to ascend to HI-SO Rooftop Bar for a one-night-only culinary celebration.

It’s the first taste of the season’s Freshwater King Salmon Caviar — harvested in small batches from salmon raised in the pristine glacial waters of the South Island’s Mackenzie Country. At this unmissable event, expect bumps of caviar served with flair, a buzzing fresh sashimi station, and a menu of salmon-centric creations that showcase the endless ways in which this fine food can elevate a dining experience.

Bubbles in hand, guests will experience the debut of a secret new caviar infusion, revealed exclusively on the night and not set for public release until 2026. Think: one part culinary reveal, one part rooftop revelry, with specials on Zenkuro Sake, bubbles, and cocktails, and a constellation of canapés gliding across the room.

With Mt Cook’s team onsite offering insights into the delicate art of caviar, this is more than a party — it’s a sensory deep-dive into one of the country’s most elusive seasonal treasures. For those who know fine food, this is your next gastronomic fix.

Tickets are limited, so we suggest securing your spot ASAP, here.

When: Friday, 6th June

hiso-rooftopbar.co.nz

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A new way to experience Auckland’s cultural heart — together

Words Sjaan Askwith | 9 May 2025

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is more than simply a gallery — it’s a place where ideas take shape, cultures converge, and the world opens up. With multiple levels of dynamic exhibitions, thought-provoking programming, and a world-class collection, it remains Aotearoa’s most inspiring visual arts experience. And now, it’s easier than ever to experience the best of it.

There are myriad options to immerse yourself further in the gallery’s vibrant year-round programme, with the best way to do so being a membership — granting unlimited entry to paid exhibitions, access to special events, discounts in the shop and café, and more. And the gallery’s newest membership option, Dual Membership, inspires not just cultural connection, but connection to a loved one, too.

Pat Hanly, Pacific Air Journey, 1977, Chartwell Collection, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, 1997. Photography by David St George

Auckland Art Gallery’s Dual Membership is a new offering for two people living at the same address — ideal for partners, flatmates, or close friends who want the freedom to explore the Gallery together or independently. Both members receive full access to the Gallery’s rich array of benefits, including free entry to all ticketed exhibitions (including this winter’s A Century of Modern Art, opening on the 7th of June), invitations to curator-led tours and previews, and use of the exclusive Members Lounge.

Dual members will also enjoy discounts at the café and Gallery shop, a subscription to Art Toi magazine, and regular updates to keep you connected to the city’s most vibrant cultural programme. A Dual Membership is available for $180 per year, or $270 with two guest passes — great for sharing your love of art with family or friends. This membership, or any on offer, are perfect as a meaningful gift for Mother’s Day, or for thoughtful gifting year-round.

From quiet solo visits to vibrant exhibition openings with a loved one, membership opens the door to richer cultural engagement, while supporting the Gallery’s vital work in our community — which is always a worthwhile pursuit.

aucklandartgallery.com

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Consult our guide to the best mom-centric movies to watch this Mother’s Day

Words Sjaan Askwith | 9 May 2025

From heartfelt dramas to feel-good comedies, these Mother’s Day picks celebrate every kind of mum. Whether you’re after laughter, tears, or total chaos (hi, multiverse), this mix of classics and modern gems offers something for every mood — and every mother-daughter dynamic. Settle in and press play.

Mother’s Day

A feel-good ensemble film following several interconnected stories, all centred around motherhood. Starring Hollywood heavyweights Jennifer Anniston, Kate Hudson, and Julia Roberts (among others), expect emotional twists, light-hearted laughs, and a glossy celebration of modern family dynamics.

Stepmom

A powerful tearjerker starring Julia Roberts and Susan Sarandon, exploring the evolving relationship between a terminally ill mother and her children’s future stepmother. Heartfelt, raw, and deeply moving.

Freaky Friday

When a mother and daughter magically switch bodies, chaos — and understanding — ensues. A hilarious, heartwarming look at generational disconnect, featuring standout performances from Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan.

The Parent Trap

Twins separated at birth reunite at summer camp and hatch a plan to get their parents back together. A charming, nostalgic tale of sibling mischief and second chances.

Lion

Based on a true story, this emotional journey follows a boy separated from his mother in India and his determined search to find her years later. Moving and unforgettable.

Anywhere But Here

Tender, tense, and full of soul, Susan Sarandon and Natalie Portman shine as a mismatched mother and daughter duo who move to Beverly Hills in pursuit of new dreams.

Miss Juneteenth

A former beauty queen guides her daughter through a Texas pageant, confronting expectations, ambition, and sacrifice. A quietly powerful story of legacy, motherhood, and resilience.

Mamma Mia

Sunshine, ABBA hits, and a wedding on a Greek island — this musical romp is a celebration of love, freedom, and the unavoidable chaos of family.

Monster-in-Law

When a bride-to-be meets her future mother-in-law, sparks fly — and not the good kind. Jennifer Lopez and Jane Fonda face off in this sharp, over-the-top comedy about boundaries, sabotage, and winning your place in the family.

The Meddler

After her husband’s death, a well-meaning mother inserts herself into her daughter’s life with hilarious — and surprisingly touching — consequences. A gentle, witty story of healing and hope.

Everything Everywhere All At Once

A Chinese-American mother is flung into a mind-bending multiverse battle while trying to reconnect with her daughter. Absurd, brilliant, and deeply emotional — Everything Everywhere All At Once is a wild ride through motherhood and meaning.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding

Culture clashes and overbearing relatives collide in this beloved rom-com about love, identity, and the hilarity of big family dynamics with a delightful side of all Greek everything. Endearing, quotable, and full of heart.

Bridget Jones’s Baby

Our favourite hapless heroine faces motherhood — and a paternity mystery. Witty, romantic, and endearingly awkward, this late-series gem delivers laughs and a satisfying grown-up glow-up.

Bad Moms

Three overstretched mothers ditch perfectionism for rebellion in this raucous comedy about self-liberation, margaritas, and PTA mayhem. Chaos ensues — with plenty of laughs and unapologetic honesty.

What to Expect When You’re Expecting

Five couples navigate pregnancy’s unpredictability in this ensemble comedy. From adoption to surprise twins, it’s a heartwarming, often hilarious look at the rollercoaster of impending parenthood.

Knocked Up

A one-night stand leads to an unexpected pregnancy, forcing a mismatched pair to grow up fast. Smart, crude, and surprisingly sweet, this comedy finds laughs in life’s biggest curveballs.

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We sit down with Lucy Caldwell and Bella Ireland, founders of the new self-tan-meets-skincare brand making waves

Words Sjaan Askwith | 9 May 2025

Basekin is bringing its skin-loving Tan+Hydrate Serum to our shores just in time for the cooler months ahead. Founded by two Kiwis, born from their own personal experiences, the brand blends clean, conscious skincare with 100% natural DHA for a radiant, buildable glow.

Powered by hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and antioxidant-rich vitamins C and E, this multitasking serum hydrates, nourishes, and tans in one effortless step. Basekin is a brand with a skinimalist ethos — fewer products, better ingredients, and a sun-kissed finish without compromise.

Here, we sit down with co-founders Lucy Caldwell and Bella Ireland to discuss their ‘why’ behind Basekin, how to best use the product, and what comes next.

Q&A

with co-founders Lucy Caldwell and Bella Ireland

Co-founders of Basekin Bella Ireland (left) and Lucy Caldwell (right)

Tell me about how Basekin came about, what inspired the idea?

Lucy: Basekin started in a pretty honest, personal way. I was pregnant, and like so many
women, I started looking more closely at what I was putting on my skin. I’ve always been a self-
tan girl — I grew up with fair skin, a lot of moles, and a family history of melanoma, so the sun
was never really an option. But suddenly, I was reading ingredient lists and realising how many
fake tans were packed with things I didn’t feel good about using daily. And beyond that, none of
them felt like they belonged next to the rest of my skincare — they smelled weird, felt sticky, and
didn’t match the standard I had for everything else I was using. That’s when it hit me: why
should tanning feel like a separate category? Why couldn’t it be skincare too?

Bella: Around the same time, I was deep in work life, long hours, events, barely holding a
routine together and constantly breaking out. My skin was reactive, and anything heavy or
overly fragranced would just make it worse. But I still wanted to look alive, like I’d had eight
hours sleep and a beach holiday. We kept coming back to this idea of a shortcut – a product
that gave you that glow, but actually supported your skin, not sabotaged it. We didn’t want
something complicated or overly “cosmetic” just something chic, effective, and genuinely easy
to use. That was the moment Basekin started to take shape.

What happened from there, what steps did you take to bring the brand to life?

Lucy: Once the idea landed, we became a bit obsessed. We started pulling apart ingredient
lists from traditional self-tanners to our go-to skincare and asking the obvious question: why had tanning been left behind? Everything still felt like the same old sticky mousse, overpowering
fragrance, or synthetic DHA drops. We knew from the start that we didn’t want to create just
another version of what was already out there.

Bella: We teamed up with an incredible Australian formulator and spent over a year developing
a formula that would actually do something for your skin, not just tint it. It had to feel like a
serum, not a tan. We used 100% natural DHA and layered in actives like Hyaluronic Acid,
Niacinamide, and Vitamin C – ingredients we already trusted and loved. We tested it
obsessively, on ourselves, friends, and family, refining until it felt like something we were
genuinely proud to use. I remember the day when I said to Lucy, “We need to make this work,
because I genuinely cannot live without this product.” From there, every part of Basekin, the
feel, the formula, the tone, came back to one question: would we reach for this every day?

Why was it important to you to blend skincare with self-tan?

Lucy: For me, tanning always felt like the one step in my routine that didn’t match the rest. I’d
invest in great skincare — actives, serums, ingredients that supported my skin — and then ruin
it with a product that felt heavy, synthetic, and off-brand for everything else I was using. It just
didn’t make sense. Skincare has evolved so much, but tanning hadn’t caught up. It shouldn’t be
something that undoes all the good you’ve done for your skin, it should add to it.

Bella: There are definitely tan-drop products on the market, but most of them still felt like a
compromise as they’re either too drying, too heavily fragranced, or not something I’d trust on
sensitive, breakout-prone skin. I was constantly adjusting formulas to make them work better,
mixing them into serums I actually liked. We wanted to cut that extra step and create something
that was truly skincare-first, not an afterthought. Basekin isn’t just a tan with a little hydration
thrown in. It’s a formula built from the ground up to support your skin and deliver a natural glow
all in one pump.

The word ‘clean’ has been a bit contentious in years gone by. With Basekin, what does
‘clean’ mean to you?

Bella: We get why the word ‘clean’ can feel loaded as it’s been overused and underdefined. But
for us, it really just comes down to being intentional. Every ingredient in Basekin is there for a
reason, and we’re transparent about why it’s in the formula. It’s about using what works, leaving
out what doesn’t, and respecting your skin in the process.

Lucy: For me, it was about being able to use something daily without overthinking it. During
pregnancy, I found myself reading every label and questioning everything I put on my skin, and
tanning products just didn’t make the cut. With Basekin, we cut out anything unnecessary or
irritating. No synthetic DHA, no fragrance, no fillers. Clean, to us, means it’s gentle enough for
sensitive skin, safe enough to use while pregnant, and still delivers real, skin-loving results.

How do you suggest using the product within a skincare routine?

Bella: We really designed it to fit into the kind of routine we actually have and that’s quick, a bit
chaotic, but still intentional. I apply 1–2 pumps after cleansing, like I would any serum, then
follow with moisturiser or SPF. It sinks in fast and doesn’t mess with anything else I’m using,
which makes it easy to stay consistent.

Lucy: You can use it either way, sometimes I apply it at night, but if I’ve forgotten, I’ll throw it on
in the morning as I’m heading out the door. Then I’ll catch myself in the mirror later, looking
fresh without a drop of makeup. I find 1–2 pumps goes a long way as it covers my face and
décolletage and gives that soft, everyday golden tone. If I’ve got something on like an event or
drinks with the girls, I’ll use 3–4 pumps the night before for a bit more colour. It’s buildable, so
you can tailor it to whatever you’ve got going on.

Who are you hoping to reach with the product, and what are you hoping to do for those
people?

Bella: Basekin is for people like us who want skincare that fits their lifestyle and leaves them
looking fresh and golden without overcomplicating things. It’s for the busy, the burnt out, the
ingredient-conscious.

Lucy: I think we’ve both been through seasons where our skin felt tired, our routines felt too
hard, and we just wanted one product to make us feel a bit more pulled together. Whether
you’re postpartum, time-poor, or just totally over high-maintenance beauty, Basekin gives you
a moment of ease, and a bit of confidence, without the effort. It’s not about transformation. It’s
about giving your skin what it needs to look and feel its best every day.

Basekin is pregnancy-safe, which is near-impossible to find in a self-tanner. Can you
explain to expecting mums why the product is safe for mums-to-be, and why this was
important to you?

Lucy: This one’s really personal for me. When I was pregnant, I started looking at every
ingredient I was putting on my skin and I couldn’t find a single tanning product I felt good about
using. So many of them were packed with synthetic DHA, fragrance, or additives that just didn’t
sit right. That was a huge part of why Basekin started as I wanted something I could use daily,
without second-guessing it.

Bella: We were really clear from day one that the formula had to be safe enough for sensitive
and hormonal skin, pregnancy included. We worked closely with our formulator to make sure
everything passed that test. We use 100% natural DHA, no synthetic fragrance, no known
irritants. The formula is gentle, hydrating, and supports your skin rather than stressing it so it’s
not just safe, it’s genuinely good for your skin through every stage.

What does the future look like for the brand? Any additional products in the pipeline?

Bella: We’re just getting started. There are definitely more products in the pipeline but we’re
doing it slowly and thoughtfully. We’re not interested in launching for the sake of it. Everything
we create has to earn its place and genuinely serve a purpose. It’s about building a tight edit of
essentials that work hard and make sense.

Lucy: We’ve always said: fewer steps, better skin. That’s the filter we use for every decision.
Anything we bring out next will follow the same Basekin philosophy — skincare-first,
multitasking, gentle, and easy to slot into real routines. No fluff or fillers, just products that make your skin feel better.

Anything else you’d like to communicate about Basekin?

Lucy: We built Basekin because the products we wanted didn’t exist. Self-tan always felt like
an afterthought in a skincare routine and something you had to work around, not with. We
wanted something that felt elevated but effortless, that fit into our routines without
overcomplicating them. It’s not about doing more, it’s about doing less, better.

Bella: For us, Basekin is just as much about how you feel as how you look. That subtle shift
when your skin’s hydrated, even-toned, and you don’t need makeup to feel ready. We hear it
from customers all the time — “I caught myself in the mirror and felt good.” That’s the energy
we’re here for. Thoughtful formulas, fewer steps, and skin that looks like yours, just a little more
golden.

basekinbody.com

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Met Gala 2025: Our guide to the best looks from the biggest night out in fashion

Words Sjaan Askwith | 7 May 2025

The first Monday in May carries special meaning for the fashion set, marking the most significant event on the calendar — the Met Gala.

Inaugurated as an annual fundraising gala for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, the Met has become synonymous with outrageous outfits and iconic celebrity moments. It is an event that has come to capture the imagination of even those completely uninterested in fashion or glamour. And while almost every notable figure in Hollywood receives an invite, from style icons to actors and musicians, we are left to look on from home — taking on the role of fashion critic to dissect the outfits of those in attendance.

Each year guests are asked to dress to a theme reflecting that of the Costume Institute’s exhibition, and this year, it’s the new exhibition inspired by Monica L. Miller’s book Slaves to Fashion, which set the tone — delving into the cultural significance of tailored garments in shaping Black identities across the Atlantic diaspora. The associated dress code was ‘Tailored for You’, highlighting the artistry of Black dandyism, showcasing how Black individuals have historically used fashion as a form of self-expression and resistance.

Notable attendees, including co-chairs Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, and Pharrell Williams, honoured the theme with bespoke ensembles that paid homage to the rich tradition of Black sartorial elegance.

Here, we round up all the best looks from this year’s ‘first Monday in May,’ each of which showcases why this event has become the most significant on the global fashion calendar.

Walton Goggins wearing custom Thom Browne

Helen Lasichanh and Pharrell Williams Wearing Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co.

Hailey Bieber Wearing custom Saint Laurent & Tiffany & Co.

Anne Hathaway Wearing Carolina Herrera and Bulgari

Henry Golding wearing Oswald Boateng and Cartier

Nicole Kidman Wearing custom Balenciaga Couture

A$AP Rocky Wearing custom Awge and Briony Raymond umbrella

Lewis Hamilton Wearing custom Wales Bonner

Callum Turner and Dua Lipa Wearing Chanel

Kendall Jenner Wearing Torishéju and Chopard

Gabrielle Union-Wade and Dwyane Wade Wearing custom Prada

Patrick Schwarzenegger wearing custom Balmain

Nick Jonas wearing Bianca Saunders and Tiffany & Co. & Priyanka Chopra
Wearing Balmain and Bulgari

Sofia Richie Wearing custom Tommy Hilfiger

Pusha T Wearing Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co.

Jeff Goldblum Wearing custom Wales Bonner & Swarovski brooch

Miranda Kerr Wearing custom Christian Dior and Tiffany & Co.

Anna Sawai Wearing custom Christian Dior and Cartier

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We present Denizen’s definitive guide to Mother’s Day dining

Words Sjaan Askwith | 7 May 2025

My mum was a big proponent of celebration — in any way, shape, or form, and as a result, Mother’s Day (and any and every other excuse to pop the Champagne and enjoy delicious food) was relished with fervour in our household. Mum is no longer with us, but as I am now a mother myself, the tradition remains: on Mother’s Day — we go big. Luckily for me (and all of you), Auckland has no shortage of exceptional happenings to make the day extra special and inspire indulgence. From opulent high teas to thoughtfully curated special menus, convivial brunches, Champagne specials and more — here, we round up the very best ways to celebrate in style this Mother’s Day.

Mother’s Day Dining

Bistro Saine

Celebrate Mother’s Day at Bistro Saine, where thoughtful details elevate the experience. From a sparkling welcome to a parting gift of exquisite chocolates, enjoy an afternoon of refined dining in a locale where good taste is always in season.

Book mum a spot here.

Azabu

Trust the chef across both of Azabu’s venues this Mother’s Day with an Omakase set menu designed especially for the occasion by executive chef Darren Johnson, including a selection of Azabu favourites. They’ve got the kids covered too, with the award winning kids menu including a bento box with a choice of steak, chicken or fish, hand rolled sushi, dumplings and fried rice.

Book mum a spot here.

Esther

Celebrate mum with Esther’s High Tea — a chic, retro-inspired afternoon where culinary curiosities meet Mediterranean flair. Forget finger sandwiches; think edible art, a tea menu fit for royalty, and nostalgic bites with a glamorous twist. Plus, mums are welcomed with a complimentary glass of Perrier-Jouët Champagne. Treat your queen to a celebration that’s bold, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable.

Book mum a spot here.

Kingi

This Mother’s Day, treat mum to a long lunch at kingi. Enjoy a welcome glass of bubbles or a kingi spritz, followed by a spread of antipasti and your choice of pan-roasted snapper, chickpea farinata, or confit duck leg — all for $75 per person. Add Pacific oysters and a decadent dessert for an extra-special touch.

Book mum a spot here.

Andiamo

Spoil Mum in sparkling style this Mother’s Day at Andiamo. On Sunday 11th May, the Hene Bay stalwart is opening early (from 11am) to celebrate with a decadent three-course set menu ($99pp), complete with a flute of G.H.Mumm Cordon Rosé Champagne on arrival. Choose from delicious starters, indulgent mains, and a sweet dolce to finish. There’s also a kids’ menu available for the littles.

Book mum a spot here.

Masu

This Mother’s Day, honour Mum with an unforgettable Japanese dining experience. From 5–9pm, savour all your à la carte favourites, plus exclusive specials like a delicate sashimi flower selection with wafu dressing, ginger gel and mandarin, and premium Japanese Wagyu at $85 per 100g. A beautiful way to celebrate the most important woman in your life.

Book mum a spot here.

Ayrburn

Celebrate your leading ladies at Ayrburn with a dining experience as special as they are. Choose from High Tea at The Bakehouse, a luxurious lunch at The Woolshed, a set menu in The Manure Room, or an epic escape in The Barrel Room. With options for every style of mum, Ayrburn is the perfect place to show how much mum means to you.

Book mum a spot here.

Origine

Treat Mum to an elegant French-inspired feast at Origine this Mother’s Day. Choose from a refined menu of canapés, two or three seasonal courses, and indulgent desserts — think kingfish with basil sorbet, braised lamb with garden carrots, and a decadent chocolate-raspberry éclair. With sweeping views and flawless flavours, it’s a beautiful way to celebrate the woman who does it all.

Book mum a spot here.

Enjoy a cocktail and the Venison tartare this Mother’s Day at Ki Maha

Ki Māha

Mother’s Day at Ki Māha offers a stunning three-course feast for $79pp, including complimentary bubbles. Choose from delicacies like kingfish sashimi, venison tartare, or burrata with basil oil, followed by a choice of market fish with yuzu butter and poached squid, truffle lamb rump, or saffron agnolotti. End with a delectable roasted pineapple dish for dessert. If you’re looking to elevate your experience further, opt for indulgent add-ons, including Wagyu croquettes, oysters, or a bump of caviar.

Book mum a spot here.

Huami

Celebrate Mum with an unforgettable experience at Huami. Enjoy a leisurely Yum Cha lunch from 11.30am, featuring hand-crafted dim sum, or gather for a sharing-style dinner from 5.30pm, with an à la carte menu of authentic Chinese dishes. Whether it’s a relaxed afternoon or an elegant evening, Huami sets the perfect scene to show Mum just how much she’s loved.

Book mum a spot here.

The Runholder

Gather the family for a special Sunday Roast this Mother’s Day. Begin with house-made sourdough, whipped brown butter, and fire-roasted kumara hummus, before a feast of roast lamb with all the classic trimmings. Finish on a sweet note with sticky toffee pudding and petit fours. At $75 per person, it’s a perfect, low-key way to celebrate Mum over a beautifully crafted meal (that she hasn’t had to cook).

Book mum a spot here.

Saint Alice

Treat Mum to a waterfront High Tea at Saint Alice this Mother’s Day. From 12–4pm, enjoy a spread of delicious bites for $50 per person, all served with stunning harbour views. Want to make it even more special? Add a glass of Moët & Chandon for just $20.

Book mum a spot here.

Soul Bar & Bistro

Celebrate Mum in style this Mother’s Day at SOUL. From 11am–10pm, enjoy a specially crafted 3-course menu by Executive Chef Gavin Doyle, featuring both classic favourites and exciting new dishes. For those who prefer the full SOUL experience, the à la carte menu will also be available. At $75 per person ($25 for kids), it’s the perfect way to show Mum just how special she is.

Book mum a spot here.

Advieh

Spoil Mum with a morning to remember at Advieh. Their Mother’s Day breakfast pairs a refined continental spread with indulgent à la carte options — think maple waffles, house-smoked pastrami Benedict, and signature Turkish eggs. Thoughtful, flavourful, and beautifully presented — it’s the ultimate start to her day.

Book mum a spot here.

Cāntīng

Celebrate Mum with Cāntīng’s convivial Bottomless Brunch Yum Cha this Mother’s Day. Enjoy free-flowing drinks, flavour-packed dim sum, vibrant starters and signature dishes in a fun, festive setting. Little ones are treated too, with bottomless sodas just for them. It’s the perfect way to toast the most important woman in your life.

Book mum a spot here.

Metita

Celebrate Mum with the return of Toana’I at Metita, a heartfelt feast of love and tradition. Inspired by Michael Meredith’s mother, Metita offers a menu reflecting her profound influence. Enjoy live entertainment by Manoah Pickering and a special treat for Mum to take home. Available from 12pm–4pm (last booking 2.30pm), at $95 per adult and $50 per child.

Book mum a spot here.

Jervois Steak House

At Jervois Steak House this Mother’s Day you’ll find a specially crafted two-course set menu ($79pp) available from 12pm–4pm. Enjoy seasonal entrées and premium cuts, with a signature side to complete the experience. For dinner, the eatery’s full à la carte menu is available from 5pm. A kids’ menu also on offer for mini diners.

Book mum a spot here.

Onslow

At Onslow, you’ll find an unforgettable dining experience this Mother’s Day. From 11am–7pm, indulge in a special four-course menu ($140pp) featuring treats, your choice of starter, main, and dessert. For younger guests (12 and under), a bespoke $70 set menu is available. End the celebration with beautiful cakes and petit fours. Plus, the first 70 mothers to book will receive a 50ml Embodyme Nurturing Body Oil for the perfect touch of self-care.

Book mum a spot here.

Non Solo Pizza

If the way to mum’s heart is through her stomach, then wine and dine her at NSP this Mother’s Day, enjoying the beloved eatery’s new long lunch menu (for $55 per person) or her favourite dish from the à la carte menu. Enjoy a highlight of new seasonal dishes and long time classics, Mother’s Day cocktails, and flowing champagne, while the perfect Bambini menu sees that the kids are covered too. Bellissimo.

Book mum a spot here.

The Grill

Treat Mum to a culinary journey through Aotearoa this Mother’s Day. From 5pm–9.30pm, enjoy a selection of sharing dishes from the à la carte menu, featuring the best of New Zealand’s pastures and sustainably caught seafood. End the evening with a special Mother’s Day dessert, crafted to make the occasion even more memorable. A perfect way to celebrate with a taste of home.

Book mum a spot here.

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Photography — Timothy Kaye

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