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
Shark Beauty burst onto the hairstyling scene late last year and gave the category a much-needed shake-up — introducing a series of seriously impressive, powerful tools that not only get the job done to impressive effect but have been crafted with all hair types in mind, bringing diversity to the fore in a category that is seriously lacking it.
Quickly gaining a cult following across both New Zealand and Australia, Shark Beauty has quickly become a household name, earning a reputation for their tools that work on every hair type — and for any skill set. Now, giving Aucklanders the opportunity to see for themselves just how impressive these tools are, the now-cult brand is opening the doors to a pop-up salon in the heart of Newmarket — with a team of the country’s best hair stylists, offering complimentary blow outs, insider tips, and special product offers.
From today until Sunday October 20th, the Shark Beauty Salon will be offering free 30-minute hair styling sessions where top stylists will showcase how to best use Shark Beauty’s innovative styling tools for your specific tresses, providing personalised tips to help you to embrace your hair.
Offering everything from voluminous, high-gloss blowouts, to bouncy and defined curls, the Shark Beauty Salon has a product to meet every need across its suite of hair tools, all of which will be available to purchase on-site with with exclusive discounts. Bookings are recommended, which you can make here, with limited walk-in appointments also available.
The salon will be open Wednesday through Sunday, with hours as follows:
Gucci’s creative director, Sabato De Sarno has — in his short tenure at Gucci, made a name for himself for his adeptness in mining the house’s archives, and casting a modern lens over iconic designs. In his latest creative stroke of genius, its to a heritage-infused 70s style that he has shifted his focus — giving the Gucci Blondie a meticulous reinterpretation.
Unveiled on the runway of Gucci’s Cruise 2025 show, the Gucci Blondie — originally unveiled in the early 70s, and named for the then-new iteration of its logo featuring two Gs (a tribute to the house’s founder, Guccio Gucci) inverted and positioned face-to-face, blends Gucci’s heritage codes with contemporary influences — combining retro inspiration with modern sophistication.
And, it was Debbie Harry — the original Blondie, that has been cast as protagonist in De Sarno’s new campaign presenting the many iterations of the bag, alongside the Cruise 2025 collection. “We Will Always Have London”, captured by award-winning photographer and filmmaker Nan Goldin, stars Harry alongside Kelsey Lu, captured as the protagonists of a story of people, places and moments, an ode to the timeless allure of London, and the House’s deep connection to the city.
Cultural icon Debbie Harry, co-founder and lead singer of Blondie, is celebrated for her rebellious spirit, pioneering style, and lasting impact on music, inspiring generations. She stars alongside Kelsey Lu, an acclaimed cellist, composer, and performer of today. Despite their generational differences, these two women share a vibrant creative energy. Together, they embody the fusion of past and future — a theme that Gucci often explores — and personify the Gucci Blondie bag, a timeless icon reimagined.
In celebration of the city-wide event ‘ArtWeek in the City Centre’, Viaduct Harbour will unveil BLOOM, a mesmerising art installation by local artists Angus Muir and Harris Keenan. On display from the 29th of September to the 13th of October, BLOOM features a larger-than-life vase brimming with vibrant flowers of various shapes and sizes, creating an eye-catching display that radiates joy and energy.
This captivating installation combines vivid neon colours and dynamic design elements, enhanced by an immersive soundscape by Arun Strickland, which together evoke a sense of untamed beauty and wonder. Positioned outside Soul Bar & Bistro, BLOOM transforms the surrounding environment into an electric kaleidoscope of light and sound.
Harris Keenan, a multidisciplinary artist based in Auckland, has been specialising in illustration and graphic design for the past five years. Known for his work with Angus Muir Design, Keenan’s artistic style blends visual identity with vibrant, expressive storytelling.
BLOOM, the mesmerising art installation by local artists Angus Muir and Harris Keenan
And, if you’re looking to head down, why not make a night of it and book a meal at one of these delicious dining destinations — securing a coveted table at one of Viaduct Harbour’s epic eateries. From the warm hospitality and always lively vibe at Soul Bar & Bistro, to Hello Beasty’s alluring Asian fusion, the options are endless.
Viaduct Harbour
Delicious Dining Destinations
Left to right: Soul Bar & Bistro, Hello Beasty and Bivacco
Adding to an already extensive list of reason’s to visit, Soul recently added a handful of new dishes to its menu that have become instant hits, and are well worth a trip to the Viaduct Harbour stalwart to sample. Come for the food, stay for the extensive drinks list, unmatched views (now including a front-row seat to the striking new light installation), and always lively vibe. Soul never misses. Secure a coveted table here.
It didn’t take Bivacco long to solidify itself as the place to be for after-work drinks, leisurely weekend lunches, and convivial dinners alike, with its exceptional fare, extensive list of libations and consistently good vibes to match, and the addition of their ‘Sundown Sessions’ made it the place to be for an afternoon snack and tipple, too. No matter when you plan to visit the installation, make sure you factor in a drink and bite at this lively locale. Secure a coveted table here.
Another gem in Viaduct Harbour’s glistening gastronomic crown, Hello Beasty draws inspiration from Korean, Japanese and Chinese cuisine, and as such, offers flavourful fare that promises to expand your culinary horizons. Dinner is the perfect time to visit, ideally with a hearty appetite, so to sample as many dishes as possible — as choosing just a few is near-impossible. The drinks are sublime too — we recommend the impossibly fresh Umeshu Spritz. Secure a coveted table here.
Renowned American glass artist Dale Chihuly’s second collaboration with The Rug Company, Masterpieces II, reimagines his iconic glasswork in the form of four exquisite rugs. Drawing on Chihuly’s ability to transform traditional craftsmanship into avant-garde art, the collection explores his signature themes of colour, form, and movement.
The rug Company x CHIHULY MASTERPIECES II Coho rug from Design Central
The rug Company x CHIHULY MASTERPIECES II Oyster rug from Design central
Inspired by Chihuly’s early artistic journey in Venice and his deep connection to glassmaking, each rug translates the fluidity and vibrancy of his works into luxurious hand-knotted wool and silk textiles. River, with its deep blues and greys, evokes the dynamic flow of water, while Oyster captures the bold vibrancy of Chihuly’s Macchia series with jewel-toned accents. The delicate ripples of Scallop mirror the gentle undulations of the sea, featuring subtle hues and a nod to Chihuly’s distinct layering techniques. Meanwhile, Coho dazzles with 32 colors, reminiscent of Chihuly’s Blanket Cylinders, creating a striking interplay of translucent and opaque forms.
The rug Company x CHIHULY MASTERPIECES II River rug from Design Central
The rug Company x CHIHULY MASTERPIECES II Scallop rug from Design central
Masterpieces II offers endless customisation, including options for wall-to-wall carpets and stair runners. This collection not only celebrates Chihuly’s artistic legacy but also redefines the boundaries of textile design, bringing his visionary artistry into the world of interiors.
SkyCity has long been known for its unique ability to cater to any kind of occasion, so diverse is the precinct’s array of award-winning eateries. The dazzling dining experiences at SkyCity run the gamut of cuisines, while the many vibrant venues ensure there’s something for everyone, and this October and November — further-adding to its allure, the destination is serving up its first-ever restaurant celebration: Served.
Offering a culinary trip around the world, SkyCity’s Served is set to tantalise the taste buds of discerning diners with a month-long culinary celebration. 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.
SkyCity Served
Exclusive Offers
Metita’s two-course dinner
Metita
Offer:two-course set menu for $50 — book now When:Dinner, Tuesday – Saturday
SkyCity newcomer Metita will be celebrating a year within the precinct with a $50 two-course dinner showcasing the best of the islands, from roasted chicken leg to steamed snapper to start, with one of the dining destination’s beloved desserts to finish.
Masu’s two-course meal, offering an exciting twist on Japanese culinary sensations
MASU
Offer:two-course set menu for $55 — book now When:Dinner, Monday – Sunday
Stalwart eatery MASU will be presenting a taste of Nic Watt’s refined Japanese in a $55 two-course meal, offering an exciting twist on Japanese culinary sensations exclusive to the festival. New dishes include a spring tomato and eggplant tosazu salad and a delectable Akaroa salmon fillet with ruby grapefruit miso, Cha han, kimchi, and ginger.
The Grill
Offer:two-course set menu for $55 — book now When:5pm until 6pm, Monday – Sunday
At newly-reopened steak and seafood eatery The Grill, for $55 diners will find a two-course menu featuring the finest locally sourced produce Aotearoa has to offer — start with Ruakaka Kingfish sashimi, followed by the choice of Il Casaro Burrata, fish of the day, or a mouth-watering 300g rump steak. All partnered with agria skins and aioli.
Chef Sid Sahrawat’s modern Indian fare showcased across two courses at Cassia
Cassia
Offer:two-course set menu for $55pp — book now When:5pm until 6pm, Tuesday – Saturday
At Cassia, Chef Sid Sahrawat’s modern Indian fare will be showcased across two courses, from pork vindaloo fritters to lamb seekh, tandoori chicken to stir fry paneer — the aromatic, vibrant dishes transporting diners to the heart of India.
Huami
Offer:$55pp (minimum of two people) — book now When:Dinner, Wednesday – Sunday
At Huami, contemporary Chinese fare will offer a true taste of Asia via a traditional feast. Enjoy crispy tabasco prawns and a pomelo salsa to start, followed by Kong Bao chicken, dried chilli vinegar sauce, quick fried string bean, Hong Kong olive leaves, fried rice, bbq pork and shrimp.
Depot’s elevated take on the kiwi classic ‘Fush & Chups’
Depot
Offer:$50 — walk-ins only When:from 11:30am, Monday – Sunday
An elevated take on the kiwi classic ‘Fush & Chups’ at Depot sees a wood-fired lemon sole, served whole on the bone with brown butter, capers and lemon, alongside a portion of the iconic eatery’s humble potato skins for $50.
Andy’s Burgers & Bar
Offer:two people for $50 — walk-ins only When:Monday – Sunday
A tasty burger and dessert combo for two is on offer for a modest $50 at Andy’s Burgers & Bar, with hungry punters able to get their fill with burgers from the eatery’s Crafted Burgers menu plus two desserts of the day. Add on a Four Pillars Gin for an additional $10 per person, sit back and enjoy being served by Andy’s robots.
Fed Deli
Offer:$50 — walk-ins only When:from 11:30am, Monday – Friday
Al Brown’s take on a classic New York Jewish diner fare is up for grabs at Fed Deli, with a comforting serve of meatloaf with potato ‘n’ gravy alongside a Four Pillars Gin smash for $50 flat.
Left: treat yourself to a Tea cocktail and cakes by SUCRÉ at SkyBar. Right: Fed Deli’s serving up Al Brown’s take on a classic New York Jewish diner
SkyBar
Offer:two people for $55 — book now When:from midday, Monday – Sunday
At SkyBar’s infamous sky-high tea, for $55, two diners will be treated to a Four Pillars Tāmaki Tea cocktail accompanied by two SUCRÉ cakes, with some of the best views in the city.
SkyCity Served
Exclusive Events
There are also a number of must-attend events taking place across the month (some of which have already sold out, so we’d suggest securing tickets ASAP!).
Cassia’s Diwali Celebration
When:from 5pm, Tuesday — Saturday (until the 2nd of November) Book:a table here
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.
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. Or enjoy the longer days in their courtyard area and indulge in street snacks and drink specials with live entertainment from Basant & Friends, from 5.30pm on 18th – 19th, 25th – 26th October and 2nd November.
Huami’s Dumpling Masterclass
Huami’s Dumpling Masterclass
When:Saturday the 2nd of November (morning & afternoon sessions) Tickets:book your spot here
Chinese maestros, Huami, are hosting an exclusive dumpling masterclass at the eatery this October, inviting you to immerse yourself in a unique culinary experience where tradition meets elegance. This exclusive event offers you the chance to master the art of dumpling-making with the expert guidance of Huami’s chefs, while enjoying a glass of Perrier-Jouët Champagne and live entertainment. Book your spot for a fun-filled afternoon, complete with live entertainment.
Foujita Nights at MASU
When:Thursday the 17th of October, 6.30pm — 10pm Tickets: book your spot here
Walk into MASU with the sound of Taiko drums for an unforgettable night, where, for the first time ever, MASU unveils the complete range of RSRV Grand Cru Champagnes. Chef Nic Watt and Maison Mumm RSRV brand ambassador Jim Robertson are set to host this exclusive event, guaranteed to be a feast for the senses. With exquisite dining and captivating entertainment by guitarist Sam Nakamura, guests are invited to indulge in a meticulously crafted four-course menu and Champagne pairing from the elegant Mumm RSRV collection.
With a $5,000 travel voucher up for grabs in October (as well as free parking for all Served diners across the month), and a host of exceptional offers and thrilling events taking place across October and November, Served is set to be the must-attend event for foodies this spring — offering diners an elevated escape in the heart of the city.
Held over 17 days on stages all across Victoria — Australia’s capital of live music, ALWAYS LIVE invites us to experience the best of live music this summer, via an incredible cultural showcase.
Regardless of whether you’re a musical guru, a passionate muso, or simply partial to the thrill of live music, ALWAYS LIVE — returning for its third iteration this November and December, is curated for everyone, everywhere. With an epic line-up of over 300 exclusive homegrown and international performances, with events taking place in Melbourne and across Victoria, ALWAYS LIVE is set to be this summer’s must-attend event, making a trip across the ditch more alluring than ever.
headlining performances from the likes of St. Vincent (left) and The Offspring (right)
A vast array of artists are set to descend on venues all over Victoria (with 35 percent of the program set to take place in regional parts of the state), kicking off from Friday, November 22nd, and stretching right through to Sunday, December 8th, with headlining performances from the likes of Anyma, The Offspring, Jack White, Chet Faker, and St. Vincent. For the most part, the events across the 17-day showcase are exclusive, meaning this is a one-time opportunity to see a host of your favourite artists this summer — and discover some new talent, too.
Live music has long been the beating heart of the Victorian cultural scene, and through a mix of live shows, broadcasts, podcast recordings, conversations, workshops, and more across multiple metro and regional venues, ALWAYS LIVE spotlights, supports, and enhances the thriving local industry.
Anyma’s genre-bending performance is set to take place on November 23rd at Flemington Racecourse, and nostalgic punk rockers The Offspring will be taking to the stage at Melbourne’s Forum Theatre on November 24th. Australian singer-songwriter Chet Faker will be on form at Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens come November 23rd, performing his iconic, soul-stirring tunes, while the Crown Aviary will play host to ALWAYS LIVE’s most boutique offering: an intimate audience with three-time Grammy winning musical auteur, St. Vincent on November 28th. Beyond these headliners, there are endless performances to choose from, spanning every genre, format, and musical sensibility, promising an event that truly features something for everyone.
Australian singer-songwriter Chet Faker set to perform at Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens
And, beyond the lengthy list of exceptional performances, a visit to Victoria also means an opportunity to indulge in the region’s delicious dining destinations and ever-evolving corners of culture. Melbourne’s calendar is jam-packed year-round, with every section of the state playing host to events across music, sport, food, the arts and more, while the world-renowned food and drink scene — boasting a melting pot of cuisines and some of the country’s best eateries, is always evolving.
So, why not visit Victoria this November or December and relish all that this incredible state has on offer — securing your tickets to the season’s must-attend musical event, ALWAYS LIVE.
For the inside word on soon-to-be-announced artists and all of the festival goings-on, follow ALWAYS LIVE on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
For more exclusive access to what the city has to offer, engaging content, excellent imagery and thought provoking commentary on the life that surrounds you, subscribe to Denizen magazine now.
