The latest iteration of Auckland’s Diwali Festival is kicking off this weekend, and we’re already counting down the days to the epic event. Although Diwali is originally a celebration of lights, it’s the Indian delicacies on offer that we always look forward to the most. And, this year, it’s inner-city modern Indian eatery Cassia’s offering that has captured our attention.
Cassia is celebrating Diwali in fitting fashion, with a special event, running alongside an extended celebration. A special 10-course menu (to continue Cassia’s 10th birthday festivities) takes centre stage, curated by award-winning chef Sid Sahrawat this Diwali. Here, you’ll experience a culinary journey like no other, crafted specially for the festival of lights.
Showcasing an array of vibrant and flavourful dishes, this bespoke menu is sure to transport your taste buds to the heart of Diwali, from Dahi Kebab to the famous chicken taco. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Cassia or new to the exquisite culinary creations, this limited-time menu features never-seen-before dishes (as well as familiar favourites) in a gastronomic experience you won’t want to miss. Running for a limited time, this special menu is on offer from the 22nd of October until the 2nd of November.
Or, enjoy the longer days in the eatery’s courtyard area and indulge in Diwali-themed street snacks and drink specials, including Cassia’s famous Cassia Cart serving up $5 Pani Puri’s between 5.30pm-6.30pm, with live entertainment from Basant & Friends, from 5.30pm on 18th – 19th, 25th – 26th October and 2nd November.
There’s never a shortage of reasons to visit Ayrburn, from the stunning grounds to the exceptional hospitality to the ever-lively vibe, and their convivial parties that are fast-becoming infamous. Now, in celebration of the spookiest night of the year — Halloween, the precinct is putting on a spectacle, with two events you (and the kids) won’t want to miss.
Halloween at Ayrburn
Scary Adventure (for the little monsters)
When & Where:The Grounds at Ayrburn, October 31st between 4.30—7.30pm
Taking trick or treating to new heights, Ayrburn is pulling out all of the stops this Halloween with an exciting and electrifying evening of sweet-hunting and mischief-making. Come Thursday, October 31st between 4.30—7.30pm, the grounds at Ayrburn will come alive with ghosts and ghouls, wizards and witches, as kids embark on a fun adventure.
Grab a map and explore the trail, collecting treats along the way — with the occasional trick, of course. Costumes are encouraged, so let your little ones enjoy the Halloween fun in fancy dress while you sip on a blood-red Pinot in The Manure Room or a ‘Green Lady’ cocktail in The Burr Bar.
All families dining at Ayrburn on Halloween can join the festivities at no extra cost — just remember to quote ‘Trick-Or-Treat’ in your online booking notes to secure your spot. For those not dining at one of Ayrburn’s eateries, admission for the event is just $5 per child.
So, don your scariest wares, pack your cauldron, and make for Ayrburn where an unmissable adventure awaits.
Halloween at Ayrburn
A Memorable Halloween Experience (for the young at heart)
When & Where:The Barrel Room at Ayrburn, November 1st from 8.30pm
An unforgettable experience awaits at Ayrburn’s The Barrel Room this Halloween, where, on November 1st from 8.30pm, a night of spooky revelry awaits. Guests, encouraged to dress to impress in their frightening finery, will indulge in a lavish long supper, complemented by a welcome drink, while a number of live performers set the mood for an extraordinary evening.
The evening will feature captivating performances by Saxy Lady, DJ Teo, and Dracula on the piano, while drinks flow and debauchery ensues. Tickets are $149 per person, including access, a welcome drink, and a meal, and with limited availability, we suggest securing your spot now (here) to ensure you don’t miss out.
Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Jordan M Vickers | 15 Oct 2024
Having achieved the kind of enduring professional success only afforded to few, Blair Tuke has spent the better part of the past two decades solidifying himself as one of the country’s sporting greats. Steadfast and resolute in his pursuit of excellence, Tuke takes his mantle as a representative of our country very seriously indeed. We sat down with Tuke in a sun-soaked room overlooking the Waitematā Harbour before he left for Barcelona — a more than fitting backdrop to discuss the sailor’s storied career, his drive to give back to the world’s oceans, and finding calm in the chaos and busyness of life.
At present, Blair Tuke is battling it out with his teammates for a hat trick at the 37th America’s Cup. But when we met a few months back, the sailor was cool, calm, and collected, wholly focused on the job ahead. But nonetheless generous with his time. On first impressions, you could be fooled into thinking that Tuke is just an everyday Kiwi — all rugged good looks and self-deprecating charm. But once the subject of sailing comes up, something switches in him, and it’s clear that this is someone dedicated to their craft in a way that is all-consuming, stretching out to touch every corner of his life.
Emirates Team New Zealand in Barcelona
Tuke fell in love with sailing as a boy, in his hometown of Kerikeri (a place he still calls home today), where, he tells me, he grew up in and around the ocean. His introduction to sailing was on the family yacht when, aged 11, he began joining his father on yearly pilgrimages to Fiji. Around this same time, Tuke was entrusted with a boat of his own — a P-class that his parents gave him one Christmas. By his own account, he got the hang of it pretty quickly, and the rest, as they say, is history. The boat not only ultimately led to him becoming one of the world’s most revered and successful sailors, but instilled in him a fundamental sense of pragmatism that saw him in good stead, “Being in charge of a sailing boat at 11 years old, that you have to launch into the water, take out, bring back in — everything sits with you, and you have a lot of freedom in that, but also a lot of responsibility,” Tuke recalls, “As a kid, that was pretty cool, and it taught me a lot at a young age.”
Once he got the hang of things, it wasn’t long before he was spending much of his spare time sailing, getting into competitions quite organically at about 14, which is when he realised he was “relatively good at it” (his words). “At that stage, I had no idea where it was going to go. But when Pete [Burling] and I teamed up to take on the 2012 Olympics when I was 19, I decided to go all in and see where it took me.” Tuke recalls, “It was only when we returned with an Olympic medal and signed with Team New Zealand that I realised I could really make something of myself as a sailor.” And make something he did. In fact, Tuke has seen the type of incredible, enduring success that many athletes only dream of, with an unfathomably lengthy list of accolades under his belt with, I’m certain, many more still to come. I point out to Tuke that his Wikipedia page drew my attention to the fact that he hasn’t stopped for the better part of two decades. He laughs, shrugs, and tells me that he’s definitely not “the young guy” anymore, indicating that it’s not as easy as it once was. I ask how he manages to keep operating at such a high level, relentlessly, without burning out, and his answer is “not standing still for too long,” before adding that there have been a number of different challenges across his career, at different stages of his life, and a willingness to adapt and change is the key to keeping going.
Pete Burling (left) and Blair Tuke (right) Underwater for Live Ocean 2019. Photo credit Blair Millar
“Anything we take on, we now do with a lens of how we’re going to use that platform or the hype that’s generated around an event to drive awareness and action for the ocean.”
But it’s not just tackling challenges in the sailing world that keeps Tuke motivated these days. He and Burling founded a charitable foundation, Live Ocean, in 2019, and it’s clear in how he lights up when discussing their progress in bettering the state of Aotearoa’s oceans, that this is important work particularly close to his heart. “Live Ocean has been a huge motivator for us,” Tuke tells me, “Anything we take on, we now do with a lens of how we’re going to use that platform or the hype that’s generated around an event to drive awareness and action for the ocean.”
Blair Tuke (right) and Peter Burling at the 2019 49er World Championships in Auckland
Spending so much of their lives on the water, Tuke and Burling are privy to the many issues the ocean faces — most of which are out of plain sight. But it was sailing around the world in the 2017-18 edition of The Ocean Race (known then as the Volvo Ocean Race), when the pair realised just how urgent an issue ocean health is. Upon returning home, the sailors didn’t want to simply use their collective profile to raise awareness, they wanted to leverage their position to incite substantive change (“Aotearoa has a special role to play as guardians of one of the largest and most significant ocean spaces on the planet, and as New Zealanders, we need to step up and act with urgency and decisiveness.” Tuke says ardently). How does he feel about making a real difference to the state of our oceans? “It’s a huge privilege.” Sport plays a significant role in bringing people around the biggest issues of our time, and for Tuke and Burling, if they can use their platform as sportsmen to make even a small difference, it’s worth it.
The ocean, it seems, is the anchor point to Tuke’s life; a central axis that everything is, in one way or another, tethered to. “I race sailboats for a living, but it was always the ocean first for me,” he admits, “And if I wasn’t doing this, I’d be doing something else connected to the sea.” Tuke’s connection to the water is something that began as a child and has only deepened in time. So much so, that it seems the sailor spends his entire life on, near, or in the ocean. “I’ll spend, you know, 150 to 200 days a year racing boats, but then I’ll also spend at least half of that time again on or in the water.” I jest that it seems like all of his hobbies are ocean-based, too, “I guess all of them are, yeah,” he laughs in his easy manner, telling me that fishing, diving, and surfing are what he does to relax.
Blair Tuke sailing around the world in the 2017-18 edition of The Ocean Race
I’m intrigued as to whether he ever finds time to sail, just for fun. He doesn’t, at the moment, but he assures me that his love for the sport is very much still there, and when life slows down a little, he’ll “get back to it.”
As someone who has never stepped foot on a sailboat, I’m interested in what it is that he loves most about the sport, and, expecting something specific or technical relating to his craft, his winsome answer is so beautiful it catches me off guard. “When you’re on the water, life slows down,” he reasons, “there’s this incredible sense of freedom and presence you have when you’re on the ocean. It’s forever changing, with the currents or the wind or the weather; when it comes to the wildlife you see, or the experience you’ll have, it’s always different,” he pauses, adding, “you’ll never experience the exact same thing twice, and I think that’s what’s so special about it.” Not a mention of strategy or competition or physical challenges in sight, and I start to get the sense that the sea has given Tuke much more than simply a career.
Blair Tuke wearing Omega’s SEAMASTER PLANET OCEAN DEEP BLACK ETNZ EDITION
When it comes to what’s next, or whether there are any plans to slow down or stop, Tuke is focussed on what lies immediately ahead in Barcelona, and mentions his work as Co-CEO of the Black Foils, New Zealand’s SailGP team which he’s committed to growing alongside Burling. And (maybe), finding some respite post-Cup. Beyond that, it very much sounds like it’s full steam ahead, as I’ve quickly come to find isn’t at all surprising.
Tuke begins telling me about the importance of rest and balance when it comes to what he does, and finding time to either celebrate or recalibrate post a big competition, but cuts himself off as the World Ocean Race pops into his mind. “That loss was a tough pill to swallow,” he recalls, “I’d say that there’s definitely unfinished business there,” he hints at plans to give it another go, saying that his love of ocean racing is no secret.
But that can wait. For now, post-Cup, he’s heading home to enjoy the Kiwi summer. Most of which, I imagine, will be spent in the place that has offered him an incredible, history-making career, and so much more — the ocean.
Fish & chips is a quintessentially Kiwi summertime staple, particularly when enjoyed straight from a paper parcel on the beach (with a tin of Wattie’s tomato sauce on the side). And, while there is no shortage of exceptional fish & chipperies in Auckland, another is always welcome — particularly when an eatery as exceptional as Takapuna Beach Cafe is on the tools. To celebrate the longer, warmer days, this go-to eatery is launching a pop-up shop for the summer, simply dubbed Fish & Chip Shop by Takapuna Beach Cafe, serving delicious beachside takeaways.
the CHIP BUTTY
Opening its doors today, with food being served out of a dedicated space within the eatery, the pop-up will serve fish & chip takeaways, designed to be enjoyed on the beach located just a stone’s throw away.
On the menu, you’ll find familiar favourites like battered or crumbed fish of the day — which is either tarakihi or snapper, dependant on the day’s catch, with premium options too — from john dory to blue cod and hapuka, alongside fritters, with mussel, oyster, and potato variations up for grabs. And, for those partial to the classics, battered sausages and calamari feature, alongside slightly more modern takes — from panko crumbed buffalo halloumi to prawn toast with wasabi creme.
FISH YOUR WAY & Chips
The clever chefs at Takapuna Beach Cafe have made their mark on the menu too, with specials such as brioche fish sliders, epic oyster butties, and a house-made doughnut filled with Valrhona ganache, served with gelato made on-site.
the DOUGHNUTs
Underlying the food menu is a focus on quality, with all the fish sustainably line-caught and brought in daily, while the bread found in specials such as the fish sliders, is baked fresh and delivered each day from sister bakery Knead on Benson in Remuera.
the FISH SLIDERS
“Fish & Chip Shop is about having that nostalgic feeling of unwrapping a parcel of fish & chips on the beach. We wanted to maximise our beachfront location and bring that timeless experience to Takapuna over the summer,” says Takapuna Beach Cafe Director James Bryant. “With Takapuna Beach Cafe already offering gelato by the beach, it made sense to compliment this with fish & chips, another Kiwi summer essential.”
Orders can be placed and picked up from the takeaway section of the cafe, or made online.
Fish & Chip Shop is here for a good time, not a long time. It will operate during daylight savings hours, shutting up shop on Sunday April 6th.
In discussing Winton’s design philosophy with the development company’s core design team — James Burgess and husband-and-wife duo George and Alex Watts, I quickly note that a refusal to rush and an unfaltering dedication to longevity underpins everything the developer does — and it shows.
Time, I’ve come to learn, is what sets Chris Meehan’s property development company apart. From taking the time to get things right across the entire spectrum of a project, to labouring and re-labouring over every minute detail to deliver a finished product that will hold up over the decades — time, it seems, is Winton’s modus operandi. It’s providing an incredible tool indeed.
Residence balcony at Northbrook Arrowtown
Chris Meehan has become known for his penchant for perfection, but I discover it’s not only this that drives Winton’s emphasis on considered design — unmatched in not only the development space but across the full spectrum of architectural pursuits. It’s also a steadfast commitment to bettering the future. Winton factors longevity into every planning decision, which seems a given when working in the property sector — but, as with everything this company does, Meehan and his team take a meticulous approach, with a considered eye to elevating daily life for decades to come. “Winton and Chris hold a longer view than the project,” James tells me, with George adding, “In Northlake, Wanaka, for example, from the start we implemented design guidelines and a review process to protect everyone’s investment, the benefit of which is now showing.” It’s these rigorous high standards that, James tells me, are integral to Winton’s success. Meehan is a “student of design,” as James puts it, with an incredible eye, a commitment to progress, and a deep reverence and passion for quality design that has formed the foundation of a company that goes well beyond developing properties, to create thriving communities.
At Winton, things are done differently. The team approach enormous projects with design at the heart, prioritising experience over short-term economics, with a steadfast belief that quality not only creates but holds enduring value. This focus comes from the top down, with Meehan having an unrelenting resolve to get the design right, but is upheld and executed by the exceptional wider team at Winton. A group who, according to Alex, are all at the top of their game and have an incredible ability to get things done, with George adding, “The number eight wire attitude is multilateral across the entire company.”
Lobby at The Villard
With some of the country’s most significant residential, commercial, and hospitality developments in their oeuvre, Meehan and his team are undoubtedly shaping the future of our urban landscape — a charge they take very seriously indeed. A set of instantly-observed features tether all of Winton’s projects to the business’ broader design ethos, with each of the three core designers placing particular emphasis on a different (but equally fundamental) pillar, dependent on their roles within the business. Where James, Head of Vertical, is focused on the big picture; the company’s ability to deliver on a vision, George, Senior Design Manager, is honed in on the merit of quiet, considered details across the breadth of each development, with an eye to how each project will function and present itself at different scales. Alex, on the other hand, as the company’s Visual Stylist, is wholly focused on creating meaningful experiences within all of Winton’s spaces, “From the beginning of each development, the design discussions are mostly about how we want people to interact with the space,” she tells me, “It’s about holding on to the experience at all times.”
The Barrel Room at Ayrburn
But whether it’s a sprawling hospitality precinct, or a residential development on the outskirts of Auckland, according to Alex, “From a project’s conception through to completion, every aspect has time dedicated to it.” Time to centralise the human experience through carefully considered design; time to research, finesse, perfect, and continue to set the bar high and higher again; and ultimately, time to realise the end goal long before anyone picks up a hammer.
Looking at how this materialises in practice, there are a number of projects in various stages of development delivering on Winton’s vision to stunning (and incredibly impressive) effect. Take Ayrburn, for example — Winton’s sprawling hospitality precinct on the outskirts of Arrowtown, the company’s first large-scale food and beverage project. Here, the concept of high-quality design is taken to new heights, with every detail meticulously considered to inspire those visiting to leave their schedules behind and “be in the moment,” as Alex puts it. “With Ayrburn, every design decision came back to how we can keep people engaged, inspiring those visiting to put their phones away (not an easy task, given how ready we all are for easy and immediate entertainment) and switch off to enjoy themselves for a few hours.” She tells me, “With so many venues in one precinct, we needed to really think through each space, outlining who will be using them, when, and with whom, so as to ensure each is unique and a perfect response to these questions.” This is an objective the team has delivered on implicitly across every facet of the Ayrburn experience. From the jaw-dropping gardens (something George spent many months/years perfecting) to the series of carefully restored historic farm buildings, to the spatial layout, planned and re-planned to create the perfect experience for everyone who visits, Ayrburn is an incredible showcase of Winton’s extraordinary vision and unmatched execution. But perhaps the most impressive thing about the eye-wateringly large undertaking, that I notice the design team modestly fails to note, is that in this precinct, Winton has created something truly profound from nothing at all. From the incredible dining and entertainment venues to the public spaces, gardens, and a series of later living residential developments to come, Ayrburn stands as a newfound community; an entire mini township that has seemingly popped up out of thin air. For me, this is what’s so impressive about what Winton is doing. Their ability to create these incredible, novel places that weave together public and private, living and leisure, harnessing the power of great design to enrich the lives of not only those with a slice of the pie, but everyone else, too.
Grounds at Ayrburn
Northbrook, the company’s later-life offering, takes this on in a different capacity. “The clientele of Northbrook knows quality, so this is crucial to every design decision that is made,” Alex tells me. Quality, it seems, touches every edge of these developments, which are setting a new benchmark for sophisticated retirement living and will, I think, change the face of later life living in New Zealand. In each Northbrook development (there are sites underway in Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter and Launch Bay, as well as Wanaka, Queenstown, and Christchurch, with many more to follow), residential offerings are combined with commercial hubs, with every aspect of the private and public areas following a strict set of creative codes and design guidelines across all venues which ensure an unmatched level of luxury that is usually only reserved for single dwellings. From the location of the sites themselves to the materials and finishes to the thoughtful design of shared spaces — imagined to foster social connection, Northbrook is in the business of not only changing where people live, but how they live, and in doing so, adding to the overall experience of a city.
The fact is that Winton, through its work and meticulous and thoughtful approach, is already improving the lives of many. By remaining steadfast in the belief that quality design is the bedrock of meaningful and enjoyable experiences, and staying true to its people-over-profits attitude — instead focusing on investing in the future — Meehan and his exceptional team are profoundly impacting how we live. And while the vision for Winton’s projects presents itself through Meehan’s eye, it’s ultimately the incredible team around him that bring the ideas to life — a task they’re proving very adept at indeed.
Serving simple but mouthwatering burgers, Bite Burger has opened its doors in a pint-sized spot within Herne Bay village, much to the delight of locals. A new offering from the clever team behind Dear Jervois, occupying the spot directly adjacent to the long-standing eatery, Bite Burger specialises in epic, decadent smash burgers — available alongside a few other tasty variants, sliders, fries, fried chicken, and milkshakes.
Following a successful series of burger nights at Dear Jervois, it became clear that there was real demand in the neighbourhood for a good, honest takeaway spot — and people loved the food that the team were turning out. From there, it was simply a case of finding a dedicated venue and, luckily, one opened up right next door.
The menu is concise, with only six burgers in total, but what it lacks in volume it makes up for in substance. The exalted smash burgers are unsurprisingly the star of the show, with three iterations to choose from. The classic ‘Smash Bite’ is remnicient of an elevated cheeseburger, pairing two smashed burger patties with American cheese, pickles, caramelised onions and Bite’s secret sauce, while the ‘BBQ Bite’ follows a similar format, swapping out the pickles for crispy onion rings and secret sauce for BBQ — adding crispy rashers of bacon to the mix. There’s also a truffle smash burger with peppered mushrooms and decadent truffle aioli.
The two chicken burgers hero crispy fried chicken, one of which is infused with spicy Gochujang, the other drizzled in creamy ranch with American cheese and pickles. And a veggie burger makes six — a Mediterranean take which pairs falafel with hummus, fresh salad, sumac, and Bite’s creamy tahini sauce.
And, if you, like us, struggle to choose just one, Bite’s sliders mean you don’t have to — with both chicken and beef on offer side-by-side — the best of both worlds. Fries also feature on the menu of course, with both cheese and fully-loaded options available. Hot honey chicken tenders are a must-order, and the milkshakes — available in double chocolate, vanilla, cookie crumble, and mango peach ripple, are the perfect accompaniment to the fare on offer.
With limited space to dine in, and plenty of spots in the area to enjoy a Bite Burger al fresco, we’re certain this new spot will be a hit over the summer months and beyond — filling a void in Herne Bay’s local dining scene for quick, easy, delicious fare. And, given the longevity of Dear Jervois’ success, Bite Burger is sure to become a go-to fixture on Auckland’s dining scene in no time.
Opening hours: Tuesday — Thursday, 5pm until 8:30pm Friday — Saturday, 5pm until 9pm Sunday, 5pm until 8:30pm
When planning how we’d like to spend our weekend, we could think of no better spot to while away an afternoon in gastronomic bliss than Remuera’s beloved Sìso. One of the city’s most consistent dining establishments, Sìso continues to deliver exceptional Mediterranean fare that is enjoyed by locals and those coming from further afield wholeheartedly — and their new menu is making a visit all the more appealing.
top to bottom: raw Ruakaka kingfish & whipped gabarnzo bean hummus
Bone marrow with sourdough
On the spring-focused new menu, diners will find a number of inventive, fresh, and vibrant dishes on offer. To start, whipped gabarnzo bean hummus paired with crispy chilli oil and parsley is joined by smoked eggplant puree with toasted sesame. The Small Plates menu sees local burrata given a unique spin, paired with crispy eggplant, Ortiz anchovy, and chilli crisp, alongside decadent bone marrow with preserved lemon pistou, fried capers, and sourdough. The raw Ruakaka kingfish with blood orange, caperberry, and serrano chilli is a delectable take on crudo, while a fresh endive salad has been added to the sides menu — topped with toasted buckwheat, verjus, and a creamy whipped buffalo curd. A buttercup pumpkin dish also features as a side, paired perfectly with tamarind, chilli, and smoked labneh.
Left: Burrata with crispy eggplant. Right: New cocktail additions
12-hour beef cheek raviolo
market fish ‘vongole’ with Little Neck clams
Sìso’s Larger Plates offering now sees the likes of 12-hour beef cheek raviolo, with onion caramel and parmigiano reggiano feature alongside market fish ‘vongole’, with chilli, pork sausage, jumbo cous cous, and little neck clams, and a melt-in-your-mouth Hurunui flat iron steak, cooked to perfection, and paired with fried broccolini, and whipped bagna couda. All best enjoyed with a crisp glass of champagne, or one of Sìso’s famous cocktails. Sublime.
Only a short, 10-minute ferry ride from Britomart, Devonport feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of central Auckland. A quaint, peaceful spot with plenty to keep you busy, here you’ll find stunning natural attractions alongside a bustling village with plenty to offer on the food and drink front.
This Melbourne-inspired all-day eatery serves some of the most elevated brunches in Auckland, alongside delicious lunchtime fare, overlooking the water from a beautiful 1920s building. From celeriac gratin, with mushrooms, charred broccolini, harissa, and pistachio, to a breakfast sandwich with a pork + fennel pattie, steamed egg, smoked provolone, and dill aioli in an English muffin, there you’ll find a truly unique spin on the classics — and tasty coffee and a glass of bubbles to wash it all down with.
For seafood lovers, paradise is found at Devonport-based Danryu — a Japanese eatery specialising in seafood. From sushi to sashimi, and all manner of fish and shellfish (including fresh oysters), as well as plentiful options for vegetarians, this authentic eatery packs a punch, and is sure to surprise and delight even the most discerning of diners.
With a philosophy that everyone should be able to eat well, no matter their culinary preferences, Vondel serves utterly delicious fare for carnivores and plant-based eaters alike. The Devonport-based restaurant is owner-operated, open for brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks, and focuses on seasonal fare from local suppliers.
Usually fully booked and brimming with locals, Buona Sera is Devonport’s go-to Italian joint — serving authentic fare on the main street for almost two decades. Utilising fresh ingredients to produce delectable, classic flavours, Buona Sera is a slice of Italy in the heart of Devonport township, and the perfect place to come together with friends and family (they cater exceptionally well to minis) over great food, for an authentic dining experience.
Touted as some of the best gelato in town, Yaza Gelato not only serves hearty scoops in all manner of flavours, with waffles and sweet treats to pair, but, come Thursday and Friday from 5.30—8.30pm, Ma Vá Pizza is on offer here too. With an Italian on the tools, and a light, airy crust (not to mention an epic array of toppings) these pizzas are not to be missed — and perfect for an al fresco picnic dinner come summer.
Turning out fantastic, authentic Vietnamese food in the heart of Devonport, Cafe Hung Viet is one of the city’s hidden gems. With chefs hailing from Hanoi, the fare is a take on Hanoian classics. Here, the beef phở is exceptional, brimming with fragrant, fresh herbs and paper-thin strips of tender rare beef. The Vietnamese locals also specialise in the classic bánh mì, where chicken liver pâté is paired with either crisp pork belly, grilled chicken or lemongrass tofu, topped with fresh chilli and coriander. Outstanding.
A modern bar and eatery in an iconic setting, Signal Hill serves up classic New Zealand fare with an extensive drinks list, in one of Devonport’s most striking historic homesteads. As the oldest existing house in Devonport, the now-restaurant boasts more than a century’s worth of intrigue, and is the perfect place to perch for casual drinks and a bite.
Touted by our Digital Director as some of the best Indian in Auckland, Flying Rickshaw specialises in authentic, time-honoured Indian cuisine bursting with flavour. From your go-to dishes to something a little more adventurous, this laid-back local ticks all the boxes — and caters well to mini diners too. Dine in, or grab and go — parking up at one of the beachside tables for an open-air feast. Either way, order enough for next-day leftovers.
Sister to the always-popular Vic Road Kitchen, this wine bar iteration is a concept simplified; good wines, simple snacks and convivial company. Where this venue is making its mark is the wine list, serving an ever-changing array of interesting and inspired drops alongside an impressive retail range. Or, if wine’s not your thing, that’s cool — choose from the extensive beer list, and grab a selection of tapas to enjoy out back in the courtyard.
Tucked away on Devonport’s Wynyard Street, a stone’s throw (practically) from the water, sits Lily Eatery — one of the area’s go-to drop-ins for a delicious breakfast or lunch. From the simple, sophisticated menu to the mouthwatering cabinet, here, seasonal and bright ingredients take centre stage, and with a number of dairy- and gluten free options, there’s something for everyone.
A favourite amongst locals, this pint-sized bar in the village is a go-to haunt for those that live in the area. With an epic selection of craft beer, an eclectic mix of live music, and an ever-welcoming and community-centric vibe, Tiny Triumphs is the perfect spot to soak up the best of Devonport’s laid-back vibe.
Chateaubriant is one of Devonport’s best kept secrets — an authentic blend of hand-crafted French and Kiwi-inspired delicacies, from authentic, French recipes passed down through generations to reinvented kiwi classics. Locals also swear by the Friday take-home dinners, running the gamut from French favourites to Chinese cuisine and a veritable spectrum in between — perfect for ordering ahead of time and picking up on your way to a beach picnic or to enjoy in the park on a sun-soaked evening.
With October comes a slew of fascinating, fulfilling and immersive cultural experiences. From charitable exhibitions to film festivals to dance, comedy, live music and more, our October Culture Guide is here to detail everything you need to attend or book tickets to over the month ahead.
OHEN’s BCFNZ Art Exhibition, featured art by ALAN IBELL(left) and CAITLIN DEVOY (right)
When & Where:Wednesday 9th — Thursday 24th October, Allpress Studio
This October, OHEN Underwear is presenting a multidisciplinary art exhibition to raise awareness and funds for Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand (BCFNZ). A diverse collective of twenty contemporary Kiwi artists and gallerists — from Simon Lewis-Wards to Grace Bader — have generously donated work to be auctioned in support of this vital cause, with smaller works available for direct purchase throughout the exhibition, and larger pieces to be auctioned on the 23rd of October. Proceeds from the event will be donated directly to BCFNZ, providing crucial support for breast cancer research, awareness, and early detection programs. More than just an art show, this exhibition seeks to spark meaningful conversations and inspire action.
Freya Silas Finch’s A Slow Burlesque explores gender performance through physical theatre, burlesque, absurd comedy, and numerous costume changes. From high femme divas to old Hollywood leading men, and from clowning to Billy Elliot’s dance, Freya’s comedic solo redefines familiar gender tropes. This innovative show aims to create a new storytelling language beyond the binary.
An unmissable and captivating experience for all ages, the magic of J.M. Barrie’s Peter Panis set to enrapture audiences this October. Prepare for delightful twists in this wondrously inventive production, as the spellbinding story of Peter Pan, the boy who never grows up, is brought to life by one of New Zealand’s most innovative theatre creators.
BalletCollective Aotearoa, performing at the Tempo Dance Festival
From hip-hop to ballet to contemporary to Indigenous, Tāmaki Makaurau will dance like everyone’s watching as the biennial Tempo Dance Festival — Te Rerenga o Tere returns with a full programme of immersive, innovative and exciting dance, running from the 10th — the 20th of October at Q Theatre. The 2024 programme is teeming with established and emerging dance creators with more than 200 performers set to take to the stage for 20 shows across 10 days.
When & Where:Wednesday 23rd October — Monday 28th October, various locations country-wide
Eric Idle, star of stage and screen, presents Always Look on the Bright Side of Life, Live! This nostalgic one-man musical showcases his love for comedy, music, and “Mock and Roll” — a unique blend of comedy and music. Featuring tributes to George Harrison, Robin Williams, and The Rutles — the comedian’s legendary Beatles parody, this show promises an unforgettable evening with a true comedy legend.
When & Where:Tuesday 22nd October — Sunday 27th October, Q Theatre
The Pop-up Globe Shakespeare Company is making a triumphant return to Auckland’s Q Theatre, following the magic of last year’s performances. From the 22nd of October, the iconic pop-up Globe stage will once again set the scene, ensuring an unforgettable performance of The Bard’s beloved comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. This rowdy, rambunctious, and joyful tale of the coming together of two worlds promises beauty, bawdiness and smut, with plenty of audience engagement, live music and an ensemble of talented actors. On from the 22nd until the 27th of October only, this raucous performance is here for a good time, not a long one, so you don’t want to miss out. Tickets can be found here.
The British & Irish Film Festival, featuring star-studded films like Conclave starring Ralph Fiennes
When & Where: Wednesday 23rd October — Wednesday 13th November
The British & Irish Film Festival returns to New Zealand this October and November, bringing highlights from the 2024 Toronto and Cannes film festivals. Screening across cities from Kerikeri to Dunedin, the festival features star-studded films like Conclave starring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini, and The Return, alongside six documentaries and a live concert. With five new locations, this year’s event is set to be the largest yet, with something for everyone across the three-week showcase.
Haircare can be arduous at the best of times, but, come party season — combined as it is with the start of summer, the maintenance of our tresses becomes even more time-consuming. Salt water, sun exposure, extra heat from styling, more product, more frequent washes, later nights and more indulgence… not exactly a recipe for lush, healthy locks.
But, we may have found the salve in Joico’s new KBOND20 Power Masque — a potent, efficacious and innovative treatment that promises to deliver 5x stronger* hair with a single use, making it an essential product for those looking to keep their locks fresh, protected, and glossy this party season.
Joining the coveted Defy Damage range, this groundbreaking new development stands out for its advanced technology, unique blend of ingredients, and ability to visibly rebuild and protect damaged hair bonds. Combining Joico’s renowned K-PAK hair repair system with the bond-building power of Defy Damage, this new, super-charged masque offers deep hydration while restoring strength on a deeper level. The inclusion of 20 powerful ingredients, such as Keratin Protein and hydrating Moringa Seed Oil, ensures that hair bonds are rebuilt and strengthened — providing rich moisture and instantly detangling, making it perfect for damaged, colour-treated, or over-styled hair. Put simply, it repairs damaged hair, then protects it from further damage. What’s not to like there?
PETA-certified, and paraben-free — the unique formula is designed for use once or twice a week, delivering salon-level results from home that will have your hairdresser questioning your loyalty.
For a complete hair-repair routine, ensuring easy maintenance and effortless styling this summer, pair KBOND20 with accompanying products from Joico’s Defy Damage range. Our picks? The Defy Damage Protective Shampoo and Conditioner, which not only further protect hair from environmental stressors and heat damage, but rapidly transform dry, dull, and lacklustre locks.
With KBOND20, Joico — an award-winning, salon-performing haircare brand — brings its legacy of innovation into the future, harnessing the potent power of the transformative power of bond-building technology, ensuring you achieve your healthiest, strongest hair yet.
Joico’s Defy Damage range
Our Picks
Joico Defy Damage KBond20 Power Masque from Hair Plus
Joico Defy Damage Protective Shampoo from Hair Plus
Joico Defy Damage Protective Conditioner from Hair Plus
*Results based on combing breakage during heat styling.
**Protects against mechanical, thermal, and environmental damage.
For over four decades, Hartfield Jewellers has been synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and impeccable taste thanks to its unique offering of exquisite jewellery. Now, under new stewardship — with visionary mother-son duo Jodie and Luke Dick taking the storied jeweller’s reigns earlier this year, Hartfield has undergone a refresh, with the beloved Parnell showroom’s transformation marking a new chapter for the brand.
Hartfield Jewellers showroom transformation
The first phase of the showroom refresh has brought a fresh, modern look to Hartfield. The space has been opened up, with an expansive, open floor plan enhancing the ambience and creating an easy flow, while striking new cabinetry from luxury brands further elevates the store’s already refined aesthetic. These updates set the stage for the upcoming installation of stunning, custom-designed cabinetry from the likes of Chaumet and Pasquale Bruni.
Hartfield Jewellers under the stewardship of visionary mother-son duo Jodie (above) and Luke Dick
In addition to the aesthetic upgrades, Hartfield has introduced a bespoke VIP Room. This exclusive space is designed to host private, intimate appointments, and events, offering a luxurious and personalised shopping experience for clients seeking privacy and one-on-one attention. Jodie Dick says of the updates, “We are thrilled to share this exciting progress with our customers. The combination of our newly enhanced space and the upcoming cabinetry from Chaumet and Pasquale Bruni will truly elevate the shopping experience at Hartfield, and our new VIP Room will allow us to cater to our clients in a more personal, exclusive way.”
Hartfield’s bespoke VIP Room
Although there are further updates to be made, Hartfield remains open for business without disruption to shoppers. The full transformation is expected to be completed before Christmas — just in time to fill your loved one’s stockings.
When you ask Lewis Mazza-Carson to tell you about K’Rd’s latest laid-back local — his new co-venture occupying an iconic corner site, he’ll sum it up in a single line, “it’s just a damn good local, really.”
Although, first impressions suggest it might be a little more than that. Mazza-Carson is the talent behind wildly popular Pie Rolla’s, the instant cult sensation ‘pie hole’ slinging pies that sell out in minutes and draw lines that snake around the corner come lunchtime. Now, taking up the iconic K’ Rd address previously home to The Thirsty Dog, Mazza-Carson, alongside his parents — hospitality heavyweights Aaron Carson and Fran Mazza (of Ada fame), are opening the doors to a laid-back bar & bistro set to be the new local.
“We have a pretty deep connection with K’ Rd,” Mazza-Carson tells me, “My parents met playing in venues on this street, and they got married on Karangahape Rd in the 90’s.” This new venture — a family affair — stays true to K’ Rd’s essence, not taking itself too seriously and knowing how to facilitate a damn good time. In Mazza-Carson’s words: “You know that feeling when the vibe at a party is just right? That’s what we’re looking to create here. It’s not snooty or some kind of once-a-year experience, it’s just a great, reliable local that anyone can feel comfortable in.”
We were lucky enough to get a preview of the space and menu, and it was instantly apparent that this family’s passion for hospitality — and immense skill in crafting venues that resonate, runs deep. Ex-Ada sous chef and Mazza-Carson’s partner in Pie Rolla’s, Patrick Marckus, heads up the kitchen, bringing his extensive expertise and unique skill set to the fore with a menu that captures his journey thus far. From growing up in Germany with Hungarian restauranteur parents to his time spent working in the kitchens of global, Michelin-starred eateries, to finding a home (and an extended family in the Mazza-Carsons) here in New Zealand — his diverse experience finds it’s footing, in an elevated take on European home cooking.
Venison pie, cranberry, venison ragù, bone marrow, suet pastry
On the menu, you’ll find what Mazza-Carson describes as food that sits above pub level, but is more accessible than fine dining. The venison pie is hand-crafted with suet pastry — a 400-year-old recipe that takes on a unique, bread-like texture and flavour, beautifully offset by a hearty venison ragù — served with bone marrow and a tart cranberry sauce. The handmade ricotta and potato dumplings with brown butter sauce (Mazza-Carson’s nonna’s recipe) are a beautiful, novel take on pasta, and, those looking for their pub fare fix will find it in their fish & chips. Served with a whipped pea purée alongside potato skins, this is perhaps the lightest and most delectable rendition of the Kiwi staple you’ll find anywhere. You’ll also find burgers, BBQ chicken, and T-bone steak on the menu, alongside a number of very well-priced starters and sides which go down well as sharing plates. Also on offer will be a proper Sunday roast, which we have a sneaking suspicion will be met with fervour by locals.
T-bone steak, garlic, sauce bearnaise
But, one of the best things about this spot, is that it’s not simply a dining destination. Their tables are for everyone — no matter what you’re in for, and those popping in for a quick pint or coffee and dessert will find a seat just as easily as those looking for a three-course meal and cocktails. In fact, drive past and you’ll get a glimpse at the outdoor set-up — a smattering of street-side tables (soaked in sun) that the team hopes will attract casual diners looking for a pint or reasonably-priced glass of wine — enjoyed alongside a pie from the Pie Rolla’s window, which will soon be available all day with all of the trimmings, from mushy peas to mash and gravy.
left: Fish & chips (chips not pictured), pea purée, sauce remoulade, right: The bar and Pie Rolla’s window
When it comes to the drinks list, it was approached with care, with Mazza-Carson and the team working with local wineries and breweries to develop a menu that means you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a great drink. As such, you’ll find house wines at local pub prices (amongst more elevated drops for those who want them), and close to ten beers on tap, running the gamut from classics to craft, with a rotating guest pour that is reserved for exciting new brews. The cocktail list is fresh and inventive — properly boozy cocktails that experiment without being too wild. The Thirsty Dog — a homage to the spot’s predecessor, pairs cucumber-infused gin with apple, elderflower, lime, and vibrant purple butterfly tea in a lively libation that tastes like summer in a cup.
left: potato ricotta dumplings, brown butter, sage, local pine nuts, right: Thirsty Dog — cucumber gin, apple, elderflower, lime, butterfly tea
We know a future icon when we see one, and this K’Rd spot is exactly that. The Mazza-Carson’s new venue embraces the road’s history and essence while bringing it into the here and now.
With plans to expand the offering based on what customers are seeking, bring live music back to the once-iconic venue, and much, much more — at this light-filled, laid-back and lively new local, the future looks bright.
From an utterly luxurious travel companion to an album to listen to on repeat; a radiant new ritual to a springtime wine release — plus, the ultimate European escape on the Athenian Riviera within which relaxation and revelry collide, this is everything that has our attention this week.
Travel Companion
Louis Vuitton’s Bed Trunk’s Modern Reimagining
Louis Vuitton has reimagined its legendary Bed Trunk, originally designed in 1868, with fresh takes by Artistic Directors Nicolas Ghesquière and Pharrell Williams. Ghesquière’s futuristic rendition blends his signature styles, while Williams adds a playful, vintage-inspired twist. The trunks combine tradition with innovation, featuring the brand’s iconic monogram, foldable aluminium and beechwood frame, and luxurious bedding — catering to modern travellers and collectors alike.
British It-Girl Suki Waterhouse’s new album is a mirror image of her life as a consummate creative, artist, actress, model, and mother. Memoir of a Sparklemuffin is “a masterful slab of exuberant, emotionally vulnerable pop,” offering a sonic palette of folky Americana, nineties alternative, turn-of-the-century indie, and hand-crafted, otherworldly pop.
Springtime Drop
2024 Releases by Kenzie
After 15 successful years of winemaking in Australia, Dave MacIntosh is back in New Zealand reconnecting with the place he grew up, turning out exceptional wines from Hawkes Bay under his label, Kenzie. Within the 2024 collection sits three markedly different wines, that are all connected — and defined — by their vibrancy, energy and freshness. The ‘Duet’ chilled syrah, ‘Beautiful Strangers’ orange, and ‘Changes’ rosé are all made from fruit sourced from four organic vineyards from across the region, with McIntosh’s deft winemaking touch shining through in each.
RAAIE, the botanically-rich skincare brand founded by Katey Mandy, is introducing the Golden Nectar Mānuka Honey Enzyme Cleanser — a luxurious new addition to their skincare range. Infused with pure Mānuka honey and potent fruit enzymes, this buttery-soft cleanser gently exfoliates, removes impurities, and doubles as a treatment mask. Designed to nourish and hydrate, it leaves skin fresh, radiant, and baby-soft, transforming your daily routine into a sensorial ritual.
Situated on the Athenian Riviera, just 30 minutes from the centre of Athens, sits One & Only Aesthesis — a captivating coastal hideaway that harks back to the golden days of the Greek Riviera. Occupying the original site of the iconic Asteria Beach Club, dating back to the 1950s, this historic property — situated amongst 21 hectares of protected forest reserve in Glyfada — has been revitalised into an exotic destination which boasts both relaxation and revelry aplenty.
While the weather is certainly still a mixed bag, daylight savings is in full swing — and we think lighter nights and longer days are certainly worth celebrating. What is also worth celebrating is the sheer number of delicious foodie events and goings-on taking place over the next month. From exceptional events to unmissable dining deals and more, this is Denizen’s comprehensive October Dining Guide.
Freshly-shucked $3 Oysters at Duo
Oyster Afternoons at Duo
Birkenhead favourite Duo has recently launched ‘Oyster Afternoons‘, where, from Wednesday through Sunday, you’ll find freshly-shucked oysters for just $3 each between 2—5pm. The drinks offering here is one of the best in the city, with an exceptionally curated wine list and a concise edit of quenching cocktails (the Yuzu Gimlet is a must), which, when paired with a plate of oysters and some great company, makes for a hell of a spring afternoon.
Céleste’s famous Cantine smash burgers are back!
Cantine Smash Burgers Return to Bar Céleste
There’s nothing like a good old-fashioned burger to put our week on the right path, and nothing hits the spot quite like K’Road favourite Céleste’s famous Cantine smash burgers. Up for grabs every Tuesday for the time being, the utterly delicious smash burgers are on the menu, alongside an eggplant burger and the usual tasty sides. Don’t forget to get in early — these will fly out the door.
an unforgettable evening with Bollinger at Commercial Bay’s Origine
An Evening with Champagne Bollinger
Don’t miss an unforgettable evening with Bollinger, hosted by Monsieur Thibaut Jaubert, Bollinger’s International Business Manager, at Commercial Bay’s Origine this month. On October 7th, limited to just 40 guests, this exclusive event will showcase five exquisite Bollinger champagnes, paired with a specially designed four-course menu by the master chefs at Origine. Each course will be perfectly matched with one of Bollinger’s finest champagnes, including some of their rare selections, while Monsieur Jaubert will guide the tasting, offering insights and stories behind the iconic wines. More information and tickets are available here.
unlock Esther’s secret menu, including a free bottle of Barossa Shiraz
Unlock Esther’s Secret Menu
At Esther this month, diners will have the chance to elevate their dining experience with a beautiful bottle of Barossa Shiraz and a bespoke menu only available to those in the know. From October 3rd — 13th, those dining at Esther can simply say the phrase,“I’ll have the Barossa, thanks,” and unlock a secret menu. The menu includes a three-course feasting-style selection of chef’s favourites (for a modest $69 per person), including a special dessert inspired by flavours of the South Australia region, and a bottle of the iconic St Hugo Shiraz to be savoured between a minimum of two people.
Induldge in a number of satiating drinks and tantalising dishes at Bar Magda’s Apertivo Hour
Apertivo Hour is Back at Bar Magda
Bar Magda’s Aperitivo Hour is back, just in time for spring, with a number of satiating drinks and tantalising dishes set to fill the early hours of the evening. Everyday, from 5 — 6.30pm, you’ll find $15 cocktails, including spritz, the Magdarita, and Negronis, alongside a delicious selection of snacks from $9. You’ll find the likes of Barry’s Bay parmesan custard with house-made focaccia, grilled chicken and duck parfait on brioche, a terrine of spiced ham and crab fat mayo with toasts, and lumpia of crab and prawn with plum sweet chilli. Or, if you’re hungry and wanting to trust the chef (which is always recommended when Carlo Buenaventura is on the tools), grab a snack platter for $65 — ideal for three to four. This is perfect for small get-togethers or after work gatherings, with the bar area now taking bookings for groups of 10+.
The Grill’s bespoke set ‘Served’ menu
SkyCity Presents: Served
Offering a culinary trip around the world, SkyCity’s first-ever restaurant month, Served, is sure to tantalise the taste buds of discerning diners this October & November. Here, participating restaurants — from Metita to Depot, are offering bespoke set menus that harness and celebrate the essence of each eatery, as well as cocktail creations crafted with Four Pillars Gin, special offers, and exclusive events across two months. From $50, multi-course set menus, to exclusive events, this is one culinary celebration you won’t want to miss. Book your spot here.
We find the perfect pairing in Asian-fusion bakery Fankery & Roku gin
Roku Gin Presents Sakura in Bloom
Later this month, the beloved Japanese gin maker is set to host a series of intimate events in partnership with popular Asian-fusion bakery Fankery, to celebrate the inaugural release of its limited-edition Sakura Bloom gin. Held at The Village, this event will be a unique experience centered on the Japanese concept of “shun” — the harvesting of seasonal ingredients at their peak freshness, and invites guests to savor spring with a curated Fankery menu and Roku Sakura Bloom cocktail pairings. More information and tickets are available here.
Soul Bar & Bistro’s Ladies Lunch
Ladies Lunch at SOUL
The original Ladies Lunch at Soul Bar & Bistro has been extended into October, and trust us when we say there is no better way to while away an afternoon with your girlfriends. From a delectable three-course meal to a glass of springtime bubbles to the picture-perfect water-wide setting and floral-festooned entrance, and, of course, an ever-lively vibe, there truly is nowhere better to celebrate the season in style. Secure your spot here.
Celebrate Diwali at Cassia with their special 10-course menu
Diwali at Cassia
Cassia’s Diwali celebration offers a special 10-course menu (to continue Cassia’s 10th birthday festivities) curated by award-winning chef Sid Sahrawat this Diwali. Here, you’ll experience a culinary journey like no other, crafted specially for the festival of lights. You’ll find the bespoke menu on offer from October 22nd until November 2nd, and live entertainment in the eatery’s outdoor courtyard from 5.30pm on October 18th & 19th, 25th & 26th, as well as on November 2nd. More information and tickets are available here.
Sìso’s epic Melbourne Cup celebration
Celebrate the Melbourne Cup at Sìso
Food, fashion and fillies collide at Sìso’s epic Melbourne Cup celebration. Starting at 11.30am, guests will be greeted with a crisp glass of Mumm Rosé Champagne and treated to a delicious oyster bar before enjoying a three-course set menu. The big races will be shown live, of course, and there will also be live music by The Swingin’ Duet, featuring entertainment legend Peter Urlich on vocals and sax maestro Andrew Isdale. Following the main race Peter Urlich will take to the DJ decks to spin a selection of dance-floor classics to entice diners out of their seats. There will also be a bet-placing facility on site. Attendees are encouraged to pull out all the sartorial stops as there will be a $500 Fashion in the Field voucher up for grabs, presented by Maman Boutique. Tickets are $250 per person, tables will be configured in groups of six, eight, 10 or 12 and bookings are essential. Secure your spot here.
Bold and emotive, Rachel Rush’s art is recognisable for its two distinct styles: the raw intensity of gritty, urban pieces (RUSH) and the tranquil beauty of alluring abstract works (Rachel Rush). Showcasing her fusion of contrasts, the artist who has a residency at the SO/ Gallery (adjacent to the SO/ Hotel on Customs Street) until August 2025 is debuting her new exhibition, Sugar Rush, this Art Week from October 8th — 12th.
Rush, for those not familiar with her work, is an acclaimed contemporary artist known for her bold, colourful art — her uniqueness lying in her two distinct, contrasting artistic styles. Sitting at the transom of chaos and calm, her soul-stirring works embrace the freedom of mixing acrylics with resin, with a fluidity to her ‘no hard rules’ approach.
Unlike many artists who shy away from contrasting and layered colour, Rush sees this as a tether within collections and between her two disparate yet interconnected bodies of work. By centralising colour, Rush’s work takes on a captivating quality, adding not only depth and dimension, but vibrancy and lightness to the spaces it occupies. Her use of resin adds yet another dynamic layer to her art, reflecting light and inviting the viewer deeper into the work.
Both of Rush’s bold, statement-making voices (RUSH and Rachel Rush) have been showcased internationally, capturing a following of devoted collectors with her emotive colours and striking characters. Now, in celebration of Art Week, Rush is debuting her new, free-to-the-public exhibition ‘Sugar Rush’ — a bold, playful collection showcasing both RUSH street art and Rachel Rush fine art, and a new style of works, all of which is inspired by the whimsy and delight of sweet treats and delectable delicacies. Throughout the week, Rush is also partaking in the Art Walks and Late Night Art.
As part of Late Night Art, Rush’s collection is being celebrated via an immersive experience, as SO/ Gallery is transformed into an immersive mecca of sugary treats for all senses — for one night only — in the name of Rush’s confectionery-inspired art exhibition. Here, food, drink, art and tactile experiences collide, as guests move from room to room, devouring delectable pieces of art alongside bespoke, sugary treats inspired by the art itself.
And, for those looking to go all-out, SO/ Auckland’s HISO Rooftop Bar will also have a bespoke. sugar-centric cocktail, matching the art and experience, and ending the night on a high note — in more ways than one.
Whether you’re a long-standing fan of Rush’s work, or simply looking to discover a different perspective, make for SO/ Gallery this Art Week.
Bodega — the epic New York-style deli by the clever trio behind ever-popular burger joint, Parade and pizza drop-in Rosalita’s, only opened it’s doors in July, but has already become a go-to fixture on Auckland’s dining scene. Now, the laid-back eatery is open for afternoon and evening service, offering tasty aperitivo and beautiful wines to match.
Bodega’s made-to-order, deli-style sandwiches, design-your-own breakfast rolls, and Italian-inspired baked goods have been meet with fervour, drawing a crowd throughout the day, and now, diners will be able to experience an elevated yet approachable take on late afternoon or early evening snacks. “We have the perfect outdoor setting for a few drinks and a bite to eat in the sun, and look forward to developing it more heading into summer,” Bryan Anderson tells me.
Filling a gaping void in the city for a casual spot for late afternoon or pre-dinner drinks and bites, Bodgea has crafted a concise but curated menu of sharing plates, served alongside hand-selected wines, ice-cold beer, and spritz — at accessible prices. “With the menu, we wanted to tailor it at an affordable price so that people can still come out and get great quality food and drink, but without the full price tag of a restaurant meal out,” says Anderson.
As such, between 3.30—7.30pm, you’ll find their famed pillowy-soft focaccia, served with butter and pickles, with the option to add cheese and cured meat, alongside stracciatella with peppornata and house oil, prosciutto with house crisps, guindllias, and crème fraîche, new-season asparagus with tomato beurre blanc and chickpea crumb, beef croquettes with mustard creme, shallot, and cornichon, and charcoal chicken skewers with plum glaze, labneh and herbs. Dishes start at just $8, with nothing over $20, and most sitting at just $13-$14 — meaning trying a little of everything (which we can highly recommend) is entirely possible.
Drinks include a number of tasty takes on the Italian spritz, a good selection of ice-cold beers, and a hand-selected edit of wines that, as with the food menu, will be ever-changing.
The space lends itself perfectly to both a casual, daytime drop-in and a laid-back spot for a drink and snack come afternoon. “The feel inside is warm, and the place is not huge but we have tried to re-create an old-school Brooklyn-style deli vibe,” Anderson tells me.
Ultimately, what this clever trio have created in Bodega is an unpretentious, laid-back spot that caters to Aucklanders looking for a good, honest meal during the day, and now — an easy go-to for a drink with friends in the sun.
At QT Auckland’s Esther this month, diners will have the chance to elevate their dining experience with a beautiful bottle of Barossa Shiraz and a bespoke menu only available to those in the know.
From October 3rd — 13th, those dining at Esther can simply say the phrase,“I’ll have the Barossa, thanks,” and unlock a secret menu. The menu includes a three-course feasting-style selection of chef’s favourites (for a modest $69 per person*), including a special dessert inspired by flavours of the South Australia region, and a bottle of the iconic St Hugo Shiraz to be savoured between minimum of two people.*
Claim your bottle of Barossa Shiraz at Esther by saying the secret phrase
Esther, helmed by lauded chef Sean Connolly, takes inspiration from the Mediterranean, with a vibrant menu that pairs perfectly with the wine of the Barossa region — known for their elegance and purity.
Savour your bottle of the iconic St Hugo Barossa Shiraz alongside Esther’s secret menu
Just a short, 50-minute drive from Adelaide, Barossa is the ultimate food and wine-lovers getaway — and with Air New Zealand flying non-stop from Auckland to Adelaide four to fives times a week, you can be there, sipping a stunning Shiraz, by lunchtime.
St Hugo cellar door in Barossa, Adelaide
Spanning the charming towns of Tanunda, Angaston, and Nuriootpa, the Barossa offers an unforgettable journey through some of the oldest vines in the world. With over 80 cellar doors, visitors can savour award-winning wines while indulging in the local delights on offer. Whether you’re sipping a vintage as old as you, flying above centuries-old vineyards, or embarking on the Epicurean Way road trip, Barossa promises a unique experience for wine lovers and foodies alike.
St Hugo’s Chief Winemaker, Peter Munro
The Mediterranean climate of the Barossa is perfectly suited for red wine production, particularly Shiraz and richly flavoured cabernet — and the wine on offer as part of the Esther promotion is the iconic St Hugo Barossa Shiraz. Hailing from a near-perfect vintage, 2021 — one of the best in over 20 years in the Barossa, the St Hugo Barossa Valley Shiraz is a stunning wine of intensity, elegance and purity that is complete and age-worthy. Chief Winemaker at St Hugo, Peter Munro says the Barossa is a wonderful place to live and make wine, “With a long history and a rich winemaking culture that incorporates entertaining, socialising and eating well, it makes for a very satisfying stay, be it for a weekend or as a home.”
surrounded by a captivating setting of vines, sits St Hugo cellar door
Nestled just under an hour’s drive north of Adelaide, the St Hugo cellar door sits within a captivating setting surrounded by vines. The cellar door includes the Hugo Wine Lounge where guests can experience exclusive wine tastings as well as dine at the award-winning AGFG two hatted St Hugo restaurant.
Transport yourself to South Australia this month at Esther, savouring the iconic St Hugo Barossa Shiraz — paired perfectly with chef Sean Connolly’s inspired take on Mediterranean flavours.
*Terms and Conditions: The code phrase unlocks the secret menu. Minimum of two guests required to dine on secret menu. Limited availability per night and offer available on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Promotion runs from 3 to 13 October for dinner service only (not available for lunch dining). Supply of liquor laws also apply. Enjoy Responsibly.
Van Cleef & Arpels’ Alhambra motif — a long-standing emblem of luck for the house, has been in continuous evolution since its inception in 1968, with countless combinations across the past five decades.
In its latest iteration, the deep sheen of guilloché yellow gold finds a striking pairing with the nuances of blue agate. Guilloché — a traditional finishing technique, was introduced into the maison’s Alhambra collection in 2018 to mark its 50th anniversary. Paired with ornamental stones or diamonds, its sunbeam-like streaks delicately texture gold surfaces and captivate with its luminous reflection. Blue agate was first used by the maison in 1989, imbuing creations with boldness and unique, whimsical charm.
The hero designs available in this striking pairing are the Sweet Alhambra watch and the Vintage Alhambra reversible ring. The reversible ring style, first introduced last year, is a transformative piece rooted in the tradition of convertible jewels that the maison holds dear. Reimagined within this collection, its two faces — one in guilloché yellow gold set with a diamond, the other in blue agate — with a double-beaded contour, echo the collection’s aesthetic codes — the body of the ring, made up of three rows of cascading golden beads, secure the central motif, while its mechanism rotates fluidly.
The second central piece is a Sweet Alhambra watch, bringing together guilloché yellow gold and blue agate, made up of nine clovers, with the watch set within a more prominent motif. A pendant and earrings, both in blue agate, complete the set.
Auckland’s unique proximity to the water is perhaps the city’s most remarkable, but often under-capitalised on drawcard. The Waitematā Harbour has become intrinsically linked to Auckland’s identity, but oftentimes, its expansive, natural beauty is inaccessible to suburbanites, with the city sprawling away from the waterfront and prime real estate being underutilised — with industrial developments getting a front row seat.
Winton, a development company known for seeking out pockets of the country’s best undeveloped land (with Ayrburn and Cracker Bay both in its oeuvre), has found one such space in Auckland’s western suburbs — within ex-naval base and burgeoning community Hobsonville Point, and set to work transforming it into the city’s most exciting new suburban hub.
Called Launch Bay, this sweeping offering is set on a spectacular site, opening up one of the last pieces of absolute harbourside land available in Auckland. Here, a long stretch of waterfront backs onto a substantial site surrounded by mature trees and thoughtful landscaping, combining the allure of seaside living with the vibrancy of the existing community, and seamless access to the city via a short ferry ride.
For Winton, the jewel in the development’s crown is Jimmy’s Point — a striking set of 30 architecturally-designed apartments sitting across five levels, with extensive, open views across the water, the Hobsonville Point walkway, and the historic oval. Located on the tip of the peninsula, facing north, the luxury residences designed by Winton (backed by years of design expertise) in collaboration with Isthmus Architects offer absolute waterfront living, with the water, quite literally, on the front doorstep. Residents will find Catalina Bay, home to the well-loved Catalina Markets, Fabric Café, Little Creatures Brewery and Gourmet Gannet Bakery only a few minutes walk away, and the ferry to the city (which takes 25 minutes and makes for a picturesque commute) an easy, five minute stroll along the boardwalk.
Imagined for those who appreciate good design (as is the case with all of Winton’s design-led developments), the sleek, sophisticated residences offer two or three bedrooms, one or two bathrooms, underground car parking, and separate storage, with lift access to all floors. The thoughtfully designed dwellings range in size from 84 sqm — 166 sqm, including balconies, and boast a calm, neutral palette, clean lines, open spaces and cosy textiles, with Miele or Fisher and Paykel kitchen appliances, timeless materials, and spacious in-built wardrobes.
In fact, at Jimmy’s Point, the emphasis placed on the quality of dwellings goes well beyond aesthetic finishings — it sits at the heart of the design. From the inherent quality in the form of construction to the clever maximisation of the outlook, thoughtful soundproofing, materiality, and the surrounding precinct’s layout — carefully conceived to make daily life all the more pleasurable, no stone has been left unturned, and no expense spared in creating a truly high-quality and supremely liveable abode.
The expansive penthouse affords inhabitants truly spectacular views with floor-to-ceiling windows (so as to maximise the breathtaking outlook and abundant natural light). The generous master bedroom is the pinnacle of luxury and comfort, with central heating and cooling, a walk-in wardrobe, and stunning ensuite, while a dedicated media room sits alongside open-plan living spaces perfect for entertaining, and several sun portals bathe the entire abode in natural light. The balcony provides unrestricted wrap-around views — northeast towards Sunset Bay and the Hobsonville waterfront precinct, towards the north shore and the green hills of Greenhithe, and out to the northwest to Herald Island, with indoor-outdoor connection carefully considered to maximise the outlook.
“For Winton, the jewel in the development’s crown is Jimmy’s Point, a striking set of 30 architecturally-designed apartments…”
And while Jimmy’s Point stands as a beacon of luxury living, the entire Launch Bay precinct — dotted with various residential developments, from town houses to apartment complexes and sprawling social spaces, offers an unparalleled style of living.
The suburb in which it’s nestled, Hobsonville Point, was established as an Air Force base in 1929 and as such, is renowned for its military and aviation heritage. The Point and Catalina Bay became the primary location for New Zealand’s amphibious aircraft throughout the 1930s and 40s, expanding over the years to incorporate barracks, houses and hangars, flourishing until 1967, when the aircraft was finally decommissioned. Once home to military parades and garden parties, today, the historic Oval is preserved as a common recreation space; the historic Seaplane and Sunderland hangars transformed into stylish eateries, retail and office spaces, and the original Officers’ Houses beautifully restored as contemporary homes within Winton’s Launch Bay precinct.
With its vibrant community, proximity to the water, exceptional hospitality offering and ferry service direct to the city, Launch Bay is a thoughtfully-designed suburban hub setting a new benchmark for city living — and making a strong case for heading west. From a picturesque daily commute (allowing you to skip the traffic and take in the surrounding splendour), to weekends spent perusing market stalls brimming with farm-fresh produce, artisan cheese and organic coffee or perching at one of the many chic cafés, bistros and breweries nearby before a leisurely stroll home along the marina — at Launch Bay, you’ll find your very own peaceful sanctuary, where the quaint charm of a life lived seaside and vibrant urban living collide in the most enticing way.
When CTRL Space is in charge of a fit-out, you know the venue is going to be slick, and Full Time Sports Bar & Eatery — a lively new spot in Kingsland dedicated to showcasing sport (and turning out delicious fare), certainly delivers on the design front. But there’s more to this vibrant new venue than meets the eye.
A collaborative venture between Mark Robinson, owner of the One New Zealand Warriors and Autex Acoustics, and Joe Jakicevich of Hancocks, Full Time was imagined as a vibrant community hub for sports fans in the heart of Kingsland — a place where fans, fanatics, friends, and families can come together to celebrate their passion for sport. “Full Time isn’t just a place to watch games; it’s a high-end, community-friendly sports hub that’s been missing in the area,” said Danielle Dodds, Marketing Director for the One New Zealand Warriors.
“[Full Time] promises to combine quality service with a premium dining experience. With cocktails on tap, table service, and a well-curated menu, the offerings are designed to complement the action on the screens,” Dodds continues, “Our aim is to be known for the highest quality service and an unmatched sporting atmosphere.”
Right: the on tap Espresso Martini
On first impressions, it seems the elevated sports bar is meetings it’s mark. The experts at CTRL Space have transformed the ex-gastro pub into a light, slick, and contemporary space that still feels homely and welcoming, “We wanted to create a place that fused an incredibly designed space with table service and a high end twist on your favourite food. But more importantly, we wanted a vibe that felt accommodating for everyone,” Cameron George, One New Zealand Warriors CEO, tells me, continuing, “a place for the whole family that is classy, but still appeals to the sports nuts.”
As such, when approaching the sprawling venue’s design, CTRL Space’s focus fell on both technology — with a series of large-scale curved displays and high-end acoustics — and striking a careful balance between sophistication and the sense of familiarity and innate casualness which Kiwis are drawn to. “We’ve set out to deliver a new sport-focused venue which is progressive while still maintaining a sense of localism and integrity,” Sam Griffin, Creative Director for CTRL Space, tells me.
Griffin and his team turned to natural materials commonly found in New Zealand architecture for the venue’s interior, incorporated in tasteful combinations and applications. Full swing doors open out onto a sprawling courtyard, affording the venue an easy indoor-outdoor flow, with timber slatted exterior banquettes, finished with plush upholstery, proving contemporary yet comfortable exterior seating.
Unsurprisingly, given the venue’s modus operandi, screens adorn many of the walls — both inside and out, although each has been approached with careful consideration, woven into the overall design seamlessly, “We’ve integrated state of the art audio visual systems for a premium viewing experience, complemented by visually striking interior and patio spaces constructed using a range of industrial, natural and technical materials,” says Griffin.
In keeping with the sports theme, carefully curated decor incorporates compelling yet subtle displays of sporting paraphernalia, set amongst sleek, contemporary details — from a deeply-hued colour palette to the clever use of concrete throughout the venue, imbuing the space with both a casualness and sophistication not often afforded to sports-focussed establishments. “Sport and sports-fandom is a huge part of our country’s culture,” says Griffin, “We wanted to create an environment that could be enjoyed by the vast numbers of passionate Warriors and sports fans who will come to enjoy the hospitality of Full Time — a space that can become a celebration of sport (win or lose) and a hub for the sports-loving community to connect.”
The Double Cheeseburger
Left: The Salmon Fillet and fried Wontons
Outside of the exceptional design, Full Time boasts a menu sure to surprise and delight those expecting traditional pub fare. At the helm in Full Time’s kitchen is head chef Sani Simei, a master of his craft with decades of experience — including his recent tenure at lauded vineyard, Mudbrick, on Waiheke Island. His innovative, modern bistro menu reimagines classic dishes with modern twists — from 40-hour slow cooked brisket to the fresh flavours of ceviche, with a focus on fresh ingredients and food-from-scratch.
Menu highlights run the gamut from light and fresh to hearty and wholesome — with Japanese confit salmon fillet with charcoal gravlax, heirloom salsa and courgette puree sitting alongside chicken wings with a host of delectable coatings, and the ‘Middle Third’ burger — a wagyu beef number served with jack cheese, bacon, and a creamy porcini mushroom sauce. There are also a number of delicious desserts to satisfy sweet cravings, with a particularly pleasant-sounding Fijian-style pineapple pie, paired with freshly grated coconut and vanilla ice cream.
The drinks menu is a far-cry from the usual sports bar and pub beverage offering, too — with a number of tasty cocktails available on tap — from espresso martinis to clarified margaritas, as well as all of the usual suspects on the beer front, an extensive whisky offering, an array of gins, and a wine list largely focused on local, New Zealand producers.
Open seven days a week, from 11am until late, Full Time is set to become a vibrant social hub with an always-lively vibe, bringing the best of sporting entertainment to central Auckland. And, whether you’re a die-hard sporting fanatic, or simply seeking a new watering hole that offers something outside of the ordinary, this new destination should definitely be on your radar.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday — 11.00am until Late
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