Left to right: Cassia, Bar Magda & Soul Bar & Bistro

Denizen Dining Guide: We round up all of the unmissable foodie happenings across the month of September

Words Sjaan Askwith | 4 Sep 2024

Spring is finally here, and with it is a raft of delicious dining experiences that are set to help lift us right out of our winter slump. From a central city block party to mouth-watering events, spring solstice celebrations, seasonal set menus, long lunches and more, here we present our definitive September Dining Guide.

Celebrate Spring at SkyCity

SkyCity’s signature restaurants have curated delicious seasonal menus highlighting spring flavours and ingredients, all including a glass of wine from Nautilus. Each eatery utilises the seasonal offerings in a unique way, as they refresh favourite dishes and craft exciting new ones with the spoils of spring front and centre. Plus, guests that dine at SkyCity throughout the month of September will receive free parking, making a meal in the heart of the city simpler than ever.

Head to Norma Taps for their Bledisloe Block Party

Bledisloe Block Party at Norma Taps

Norma Taps is set to transform the City Works Depot car park into an electrifying outdoor event this September, hosting a block party from 3pm — 11pm on Saturday 21st September centred around the highly anticipated upcoming Bledisloe Cup clash between the All Blacks and Australia.

The match will be shown on a massive LED screen, with commentary from the entertaining voices of The Alternative Commentary Collective, while Norma Taps’ signature kegged cocktails will be flowing at the outdoor bar, paired with a selection of game day dishes like smashed burgers, and an outdoor stage featuring top local DJs who will keep the energy alive post-match.

Secure your spot here.

Left: Bar Magda’s third vintage: 2023 Magda Fantasy. Right: Signature lamb ribs off Bar Magda’s Aperitivo hour menu

Aperitivo Hour & a New Vintage 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 $15 and $9 snacks. For the former, you’ll find Barry’s Bay parmesan custard with house made focaccia, grilled chicken and duck parfait on brioche, and a terrine of spiced ham and crab fat mayo with toasts, while for the latter, you’ll discover lumpia of crab and prawn with plum sweet chilli, barbecue skewers of pork or chicken with satti sauce, and Magda’s signature lamb ribs with green sambal soft herbs. 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 feast for $50 or $65 — ideal for two.

In addition, Bar Magda is releasing its third vintage this month: 2023 Magda Fantasy. Made by Brood Fermentation from Moutere, Nelson, this wine was specifically made to complement the unique flavour profile of Bar Magda’s culinary offering — with two labels, one in English, and one in Filipino. Farmed organically on clay soils, Magda Fantasy is a bright, fruitful, aromatic blend of Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewurtztraminer, fermented with indigenous yeast in oak with extended barrel time — resulting in a rich, lightly oxidative drop with notes of apricot, fennel seed, nutmeg, honey and thyme.

Book a table here.

Snow Machine at Ayrburn

The Snow Machine Festival returns to Queenstown from 4th — 8th September, with Ayrburn hosting a new daytime après experience at The Dell, with a bespoke line-up of live performances. On Saturday 7th September, Ayrburn will play host to a special event, with live music featuring Middle Kids and LadyHawke, or, if it’s culinary delights that you seek, indulge in a Wine & Tapas sitting, which will take place in The Manure Room daily at 11am or 1.30pm, or experience an iconic Poof Doof Drag Brunch on Friday 6th Sept at 11am. The dining destination is also opening up The Barrel Room for an indulgent Long Lunch on Saturday 7 September where, from 12pm, you’ll be treated to Ayrburn’s feast menu and a three hour drinks package, as well as ticket to The Dell event.

Secure your spot here.

Enjoy a glass of nautilus estate sauvignon blanc (left) alongside a three-course meal, including either the market fish or chicken dijonnaise for the main course (right)

Soul’s Ladies Lunch is Back

The original Ladies Lunch is back at Soul Bar & Bistro just in time for spring, 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 Negroni Week with a Flight at QT

Step into the House of Campari this September at QT Hotels across New Zealand. In celebration of Negroni Week (16th — 22nd September) Rooftop at QT will not only be slinging happy hour negronis (with $14 classics from 4 — 5pm daily), you’ll also find a Negroni tasting flight on offer. If you choose to indulge in the flight, vote for your favourite to be in to win a staycation at a New Zealand QT of your choice along with a bespoke Campari bar kit. While key celebrations will be taking place during Negroni Week, QT’s Bitter & Twisted negroni menus will be available until October 21st.

General Manager of Dog Point Vineyard, Matt Sutherland

Dog Point Winemakers Dinner at Advieh

On September 25th, indulge in a five-course menu meticulously crafted by Advieh’s partner chef, Gareth Stewart. Each dish showcases the bold and innovative flavours that define Advieh, perfectly complemented by Dog Point Wines, which are celebrated for their organic practices and the rich heritage of their Marlborough vineyard. Matt Sutherland, General Manager of Dog Point Vineyard, will be in attendance, sharing his extensive expertise in winemaking and offering insights into the vineyard’s history, Dog Point’s meticulous organic practices, and the unique characteristics that make each Dog Point wine truly remarkable. Tickets are $159 and include five courses and wine pairings.

Secure your spot here.

The Lodge Bar & Dining’s Spring Snacks Special

As Commercial Bay kicks off its spring solstice celebrations, The Lodge Bar & Dining is serving up a delectable snacks special, serving as the perfect accompaniment to a few afternoon drinks looking out over the sparkling Waitematā. Here, you’ll find meat pie croquettes with smoked cheddar, a selection of cheeses with quince, honeycomb and crackers, marinated olives, and (of course) a hearty bowl of fries with spicy ketchup and blue cheese aioli, all for $82 — serving two to four, depending on how hungry you are.

The Lodge Bar & Dining’s Solstice Snack Special

Solstice by Commercial Bay

Commercial Bay is pulling out all of the stops this solstice (13th — 15th September), with a number of fantastic offers running across the three-day event. At Queens Rooftop, you’ll find a glass of Piper-Heidsieck bubbles and a crayfish and kawakawa aioli brioche roll for $40, while, at Origine thirsty punters will discover two cocktails for $30. There are several other tasty happenings taking place, the details of which you’ll find here.

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In partnership with Fisher & Paykel, we’re giving away an exclusive Mastery of Temperature wine experience with Master Sommelier Cameron Douglas — enter now

Words Sjaan Askwith | 4 Sep 2024

One of the first things Master Sommelier Cameron Douglas will tell you at Fisher & Paykel’s luxuriously appointed wine experience space is that wine inherently does not want to survive. “A wine collection is an investment that deserves specialised care — wine is organic, evolving as it ages, and it’s more fragile than you might think. When it comes to looking after wine — trust and integrity are everything.”

Douglas — an advisor to Fisher & Paykel on all things wine — knows what he’s talking about. Since 1969, when the first examination was first held at Vintners Hall, London, just over 280 people have earned the title Master Sommelier. Douglas is one of them — and New Zealand’s only Master Sommelier. He knows vintages and varieties, and he knows that if you cellar wine in the right climate, serve it at the right temperature, and pair it with the right food, you’ll maximise the enjoyment of every glass.

Something that four lucky Denizens and their plus ones will have the opportunity to experience, indulging in a personalised Mastery of Temperature Wine Experience with food pairing at the solid tōtara and basalt-slab cellar and tasting space at Fisher & Paykel’s exquisite Auckland Experience Centre, led by Douglas himself.

This bespoke space was designed to showcase two things: the way seamlessly integrated Wine Column Cabinets elevate the architectural experience of wine in the home; and the way quality of care — constant, neutral climates, free from light strike and vibration — give your collection the best opportunity to age gracefully and build complexity over time.

As a wine advisor to Fisher & Paykel, Douglas has seen first-hand the brand’s obsession with detail and the way they bring craft and technology together to create the conditions for perfect cellaring and serving. Designed with ActiveSmart™ technology and Variable Temperature Zones, Column Wine Cabinets let you simply choose a mode — cellar, red, white and sparkling. Within each mode, you can further adjust the climate to suit the specifics of a wine.

For a Central Otago pinot noir, you might select at 14°C to reveal complex cherry, black plum and savoury notes. For a powerful Rhône blend or Amarone della Valpolicella, an extra degree or two can result in a better expression of flavour and rounded tannins. Similarly, the ideal serving temperature for champagne will vary depending on the specific wine’s age and type.

Douglas describes quality of care as measured in time, taste and enjoyment. “Ultimately, wine is made to be enjoyed. The care you take when selecting a special vintage or variety, and the commitment to careful cellaring, should culminate in a unique tasting experience. When it’s time to ease out a cork, or crack open a screw cap, the ability to adjust a zone within a cabinet to the optimal serving temperature heightens the quality of the experience. Maximising a bottle’s voice, its story and expressive qualities — and your own enjoyment.”

For those who, like us, take wine seriously, Fisher & Paykel’s wine care appliances are an essential addition to the home. From striking integrated Wine Columns that turn your collection into a beautiful design feature (while providing the best conditions for cellaring every vintage), to the new Under-Bench Wine Cabinets designed to pair perfectly with a full suite of kitchen appliances, Fisher & Paykel’s thoughtful, meticulously designed solutions revolutionise wine care.

fisherpaykel.com

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Meet Hanoi Haven — the tasty new Vietnamese eatery in Takapuna with a French twist

Words Sjaan Askwith | 30 Aug 2024

Hanoi Haven — a modern Vietnamese eatery with a French influence, has recently opened it’s doors in the heart of Takapuna. Here, fresh, bold flavours abound — drawing on the flavours, energy, and vibrancy of Hanoi.

Inside, diners will a light, airy and vividly decorated dining space, with plenty of seating and no shortage of authentic charm. Teal booth seating meets brightly-hued orange walls, while a contemporary take on basket lighting illuminates from above, and lush, verdant greenery lines pillars throughout the eatery conjuring tropical oases.

The menu is a testament to the enduring legacy of Vietnamese cuisine, celebrating its rich tapestry. Showcasing both classic dishes that have graced tables for centuries, and contemporary creations that reimagine beloved flavours, each bite is designed to harmoniously blend heritage and modernity.

From traditional takes such as aromatic pho with tender beef to fried pork hock, cooked to perfection with crisp, golden skin, a house special glaze, salad, and pickles, a Saigon yellow curry with juicy chicken, eggplant, roasted kumara, and Cha Ca La Vong — a market fish dish with a melange of vibrant spices and herbs, served with rice noodles, to street food (Bun Cha, fried rice, and tasty skewers all feature) to a number of contemporary dishes, there is no shortage of exceptional options to make your way through.

On the drinks front, you’ll find 10 signature cocktails — from Vietnamese espresso martinis to a spin on a classic old fashioned, a number of beers (including a few refreshing Vietnamese drops), the usual Kiwis suspects on the wine list, and plenty of non-alcoholic options, including an edit of mocktails and three iterations of a lemongrass and jasmine-based iced tea.

From the transportive interiors to the menu that conjures far-flung lands, Hanoi Haven is a love letter to the vibrant melting pot of Vietnam.

Opening hours:
Monday — Sunday, 11am ’til late

www.hanoihaven.co.nz

Hanoi Haven

40 Hurstmere Road,
Takapuna

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Soul’s infamous Ladies Lunch is back and better than ever — secure your spot

Words Sjaan Askwith | 30 Aug 2024

The original Ladies Lunch is back at Soul Bar & Bistro just in time for spring, and trust us when we say there is no better way to while away an afternoon with your girlfriends (or boyfriends, men are welcome too!).

Auckland dwellers will be well-versed in the glory of Soul (there really is nowhere with an atmosphere quite like it), and the bistro’s infamous Ladies Lunch showcases the very best of the eatery’s offering. 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.

The market fish and a glass of nautilus estate sauvignon blanc

Right: cured salmon on pumpkin seed loaf

Throughout September, from 11am — 3pm daily (excluding the 1st and 25th), you’ll find the Ladies Lunch on offer for a modest $49, which includes a three-course lunch and a glass of Nautilus Sauvignon Blanc.

Diners can expect to find the likes of zesty, citrus-cured salmon on pumpkin seed loaf, fresh market fish with green olive, almond and sherry jus, chicken dijonnaise with mustard cream and herb oil, and espresso panna cotta to finish, served with vanilla vodka mascarpone and chocolate fudge sauce. Coffee and tea is on offer post-meal too.

Or, if you’re anything like us, you’ll be staying put until the evening, indulging in a few (too many) cocktails and seeing where the evening takes you.

soulbar.co.nz

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New & Noteworthy: This is everything on our radar this week

Words Sjaan Askwith | 30 Aug 2024

From an impossibly chic pair of headphones to a new bridal collection to a charity campaign worthy of your attention, this is everything that has our attention this week.

Denizen’s Spring Issue

It would be remiss of us to round up the new and noteworthy launches this week without including our stunning Spring Issue. Filled with endless inspiration for the season ahead, with the beautiful, effervescent Lydia Peckham on the cover, notable conversations with the likes of sailor Blair Tuke and artist Jamie Te Heuheu, write-ups on Peggy Gou’s stratospheric rise to superstardom and the enduring sartorial standing of David Beckham, a comprehensive guide to the upcoming America’s Cup, and, as always, an all-encompassing overview of the trends worth knowing — this issue is essential reading this spring.

Subscribe here

Maggie Marilyn Bridal

Maggie Marilyn has been a part of many special bridal moments over the last eight years. From British Vogue’s Tilly Macalister-Smith, to actress and climate activist Bonnie Wright, and many Kiwis, too, and as more brides look for chic, understated dresses for the more low-key style of weddings that we’re now seeing, the brand has unveiled a made-to-order bridal collection. The six-strong edit features classic MM styles, available in four silk colourways: white, chocolate, navy and black — perfect not only for brides, but bridal parties too.

maggiemarilyn.com

Chanel’s Première Sound Watch

Chanel has reimagined its iconic Première watch into an innovative piece of wearable tech —combining jewellery, timekeeping, and tech to create a modern masterpiece as practical as it is stylish. The Première Sound Watch sees a long sautoir necklace fitted with a watch and wired headphones, offering the wearer both a striking adornment and custom connectivity.

chanel.com

Camilla & Marc — Ovaries. Talk About Them.

Camilla and Marc’s Ovaries. Talk About Them. campaign is back for another year, with the brand continuing to break incredible ground in both awareness and progress for ovarian cancer. Camilla and Marc’s goal of getting an early detection test to clinical trials is in sight — with the incredible, all-female team at UNSW Gynaecological Cancer Research Group, led by Professor Caroline Ford and Dr Kristina Warton, having made groundbreaking progress across the past year, developing a world first, unique 3-target signature that can detect all types of ovarian cancer — which they hope to get into clinical trials by 2026. Join Camilla and Marc on their mission by purchasing a tee or donating. 100% of proceeds go directly toward the development of this early-detection blood test, with the potential to save millions of women’s lives.

camillaandmarc.com

D.1578.6 Loveseat by Gio Ponti for Molteni&C

The D.157.6 loveseat pays homage to historic design figure Gio Ponti, taking inspiration from his iconic 1954 sofa. The distinctive silhouette of the seat, originally named Due Foglie due to its seamless curvilinear shape reminiscent of a pod and two elongated leaves, has been reimagined to allow for personalisation, with Marta Ferri curating a vast selection of fabrics and leathers chosen specifically for both their visual appeal and performance abilities, as the Gio Ponti archive continues to inform Molteni&C’s style, blending historical values with a forward-looking perspective.

dawsonandco.nz

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Ecostore’s No Laundry Day is back — giving us a very compelling reason to skip out on the washing

Words Sjaan Askwith | 29 Aug 2024

Laundry is a universally relentless household chore that seems never-ending, particularly for those with children, but today Ecostore (one of New Zealand’s leading sustainability and environmental brands) is giving us a pass — encouraging Kiwis to take a day off laundry in a bid to inspire conversations around the somewhat hidden environmental implications of cleaning our clothes (and save a tonne of water in the process).

This year, No Laundry Day invites New Zealanders to consider not just what goes into a load of washing, but what it leaves behind — thousands of microfibres, many of which are microplastics. As global awareness of microplastics and their environmental impact grows, so too does the research into how these tiny particles have ended up everywhere — from the highest mountaintops to the deepest ocean trenches. Studies suggest that microfibres, often shed from synthetic fabrics, are among the most common microplastics in our environment. Every load of laundry can release hundreds of thousands of microfibres, which then enter our waterways.

Adding to this is the significant amount of water New Zealand’s daily laundry habits consume—an
estimated 107 million litres, enough to fill over 40 Olympic-size swimming pools. It’s a reminder to rethink how often we reach for the laundry basket.

With this considered, Ecostore are using this awareness initiative to not only encourage Kiwis to skip a load or two of washing, but to raise awareness about the many benefits of embracing more sustainable laundry habits. “Whether the only day you skip doing a load of washing is No Laundry Day or you challenge yourself to one less load a week, you’ll be reducing your impact on the environment while also saving money — washing clothes less frequently conserves water, power, and the clothes themselves, meaning you don’t have to replace items as often,” says Ecostore CEO, Pablo Kraus.

Ecostore Recommends

How to make a Difference

• Wait until you have a full load of clothing before starting a wash, rather than doing several
small loads.

• Wash clothes only when necessary, and consider the care requirements for different fabrics. For instance, wash woollen knitwear only at the end of the season.

• Commit to doing one less load of washing per week — No Laundry Day is the perfect time to
start.

• Use lower temperatures for regular washes, saving warmer settings for more heavy duty washes. This reduces energy consumption.

• Whenever possible, dry clothes on a washing line instead of using a dryer, as this helps
reduce the release of microfibres.

• Opt for concentrated high-performance laundry products like Ecostore’s 3X Concentrated
Laundry Liquid, which require less energy and resources to produce and transport, and are
cost-effective per use. Check the recommended dosage on the packaging — often people use
more than they need, which isn’t economical.

• Choose eco-friendly products that are greywater safe. Ecostore’s concentrated laundry
range is made with naturally derived ingredients that are gentle on your skin and free from
harmful chemicals, making them safe for you and the planet.

ecostore.com

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Epic Korean food and good times collide at Hazy Tiger — the new Korean tapas bar that should be on your radar

Words Sjaan Askwith | 28 Aug 2024

“Hazy Tiger is a Korean tapas bar that reimagines traditional Korean dining with a modern twist,” Ho Byung Yun tells me of his new co-venture — a low-key Korean tapas and cocktail bar in the city.

Stepping through the door here is like stepping both into the future and back in time — the retro-futuristic fit-out inspiring both revelry and relaxation. “Our ambience combines a chill early vibe with late-night DJ sessions on weekends, set in a stylish space designed by Studio Weareyoung,” Yun tells me, “We want Hazy Tiger to be your go-to neighbourhood spot for any occasion.”

Set in an atmospheric spot in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Auckland’s CBD, Hazy Tiger offers an escape, with a cosy, vibrantly-lit dining room (neon features in slimline bars that hang down from the ceiling casting the space in a luminous glow), plush booth-seating, exposed, industrial ceilings, and an intriguing wood panelling on the walls lending the space a rustic charm.

Forgoing the usual larger format shareable portions that many eateries now favour Hazy Tiger has leaned into the Spanish style of eating, with a variety of Korean-inspired dishes, served tapas-style (at affordable prices) making up the menu. “We want to allow diners to sample more options without overspending,” Yun says of the direction. As such, you’ll find the likes of grilled Korean chicken skewers served alongside crispy, deep-fried chicken skin, sweet and sour cucumber salad with gochujang sauce and a crispy crumb, Dak Jeon (a tasty Korean pancake with chicken and spring onion), Hazy Tiger’s signature kimchi tuna roll, and a delectable Bibimbap.

Alongside the food, there is a diverse wine offering, as well as a perfectly curated line-up of cocktails, which, Yun tells me, break away from the typical [Korean] soju-only offerings. You’ll also find a number of premium whiskies, and all of the usual suspects, too. Here, the drinks and food are made to be enjoyed together, and Yun hopes those visiting will branch out and try the eatery’s unique, Korean take on the classics, suggesting that the Elderflower Martini and Hazy Sunset are a great place to start.

With DJ sets on the weekend, a laid-back yet vibrant dining space, and a unique take on the Korean dishes we all know and love (not to mention an edit of seriously beautiful cocktails), Hazy Tiger is set to shake up Auckland’s inner-city dining scene, offering the perfect place to perch for your favourite tipple and a tasty bite — and linger long into the night.

Opening hours:
Wednesday to Monday — 4pm ’til late
Tuesday — closed

hazytiger.co.nz

Hazy Tiger

22 Durham Street West
Auckland CBD

09 377 7998

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To celebrate the launch of Girls & Boys, we sit down with actress Beatriz Romilly to discuss her solo performance, complex subject matter and more

Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS TONY DRAYTON | 28 Aug 2024

From Tony Award-winning British playwright Dennis Kelly comes Girls & Boys — a shattering, passionate solo drama presented by Auckland Theatre Company set to captivate New Zealand audiences this September. With internationally-recognised, Spanish-born Romilly starring, and Kelly’s impeccable, soul-stirring writing, this theatrical masterpiece is set to captivate audiences this spring.

The play is performed entirely by Romilly (who impressed audiences as ‘Edmund’ in King Lear) with the skilled actress dancing between solo scenes and pieces to the audience as her character navigates — with heartbreak and humour — the forming and coming apart of a relationship. Kelly’s writing beautifully explores the beauty, mundanity, and complexity of a single life, and a woman’s resilience and strength, with heart and empathy.

Here, we sit down with Beatriz Romilly as she awaits the play’s opening night, to discuss her solo performance, the joys of live theatre, and continually chasing growth.

Girls & Boys is on from the 10th — 22nd September at ASB Waterfront Theatre, and tickets are on sale now. Book here.

Exclusive Q&A

Beatriz Romilly

Firstly, tell me about Girls & Boys — in your words, what’s the play about?

This is always a tricky question as I don’t want to give too much away. Here goes… For me, Girls & Boys is about a woman processing, interrogating, grieving and healing from a huge life event. It’s a comedy, tragedy and a rollercoaster of emotions.

What drew you to the play initially?

Two things. Firstly the woman narrating the story. She is so charming, honest and funny. She felt so familiar and full of life, someone I’d definitely want to share a couple of wines with. Secondly, the challenge of the role, I’ve never done anything like this before. These are the jobs you dream of as an actor, the ones that will nurture your craft.

The play tackles big themes, from gender politics to fractured relationships, modern domesticity, love, and the slow unravelling of it — how do you prepare for broaching this kind of subject matter? Did you draw on personal experience, or seek inspiration elsewhere?

With the wealth of detail and information I get from the text, I pretty much have everything I need to spark my empathy and imagination in creating the world of the play. Alongside that, I have also read lots of news articles and books that give me factual information about the subjects I’m covering in the play. It’s essential when tackling such big themes to distinguish the characters experiences from my own, as their voice has to be the clearest.

Girls & Boys is performed entirely by the skilled Romilly

For you, what is the play’s single most important and impactful message?

This keeps shifting for me as we get further into rehearsals. At the moment, without sounding too vague, it’s about not being afraid to open up a conversation about the part we individually play in the gender power dynamics we allow in our daily lives.

Your character is incredibly engaging throughout the entirety of the performance, despite having no one to bounce off. How do you achieve this? What keeps you energised and motivated throughout your performance when acting solo?

The play is split into either ‘Chats’ or ‘Scenes’. In the ‘Chats’, the character talks directly to the audience, it feels like she’s conducting an investigation into her life to uncover and understand her role in the events that come to pass. Her need to discover and move forward, how she digests this information and what this does to her is what keeps me energised. She is so articulate and raw and honest in a way I couldn’t be. I know that every performance will bring new discoveries, this is a very exciting place to be as a performer. Then in the ‘Scenes’, she interacts with her children. These interactions are full of play and are beautiful moments for the character, so I never feel like I’m alone on stage.

As an actor, what’s the most challenging part of a solo production? And what do you enjoy the most?

For me what’s been the most challenging is not having other actors to share the experience with. I have missed the camaraderie, energy and human experience that other actors bring. What I’ve enjoyed most is the challenge, and how much it is stretching me and the amount I am learning about myself and my craft.

Having worked across TV, film, gaming, and the theatre, what’s unique about plays? What do you love most about performing for a live audience?

I love the ritual of how we all gather together to share a story, I think it’s magic. Nothing beats having that immediate response, aliveness and connection. It’s pretty incredible.

How does New Zealand’s theatre scene and audiences differ from the UK?

A theatre scene in any country always has that same magical feel, spaces where stories have been shared and humans have connected. I feel very lucky to have been able to experience it in both countries and be immersed in stories that I wouldn’t have access to in the UK. London and Auckland audiences are pretty similar to be honest, both are warm and vocal and willing to have fun.

What exciting things are on the horizon for you? What are you most looking forward to right now?

I’m excited for Spring and getting my vege garden up and running. That has been one of the wonderful things about moving to Auckland, a climate where I can grow a decent vege garden. Also, to keep meeting and collaborating with different artists here in Aotearoa.

Finally, tell us why we need to see Girls & Boys…

For the female character alone I would go and see this play. Her humanity, flaws, vulnerability, charm, wit, intelligence, resilience and refusal to be controlled or labelled by what has happened to her are so inspiring. She’s remarkable.

atc.co.nz

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Porsche Presents: The Drive with Caitlin Ryan

Words Sjaan Askwith | 28 Aug 2024

As we wrap up our Porsche — The Drive series, Marketing Manager Caitlin Ryan takes her turn in front of the camera to discuss her passion for innovation, the power of storytelling, and her drive to tell the stories of women making their mark. “All four women we worked with on Porsche’s The Drive campaign were passionate, exciting and driven. And although they had very different stories to tell, what really stood out to me was their burning desire to achieve, regardless of the obstacles in front of them,” says Caitlin.

The Drive presented a rare opportunity to not just celebrate these incredible, successful women — all trailblazing entrepreneurs in their respective industries, but also to discover more about what it was that motivated them to continually push boundaries, and the obstacles they overcame along the way.

Caitlin, who easily finds a place amongst these inspirational women, has a story of her own to tell — as the driving force helping to shape the narrative of one of the world’s most iconic marques in new and exciting ways.

There’s no question that Caitlin Ryan is the perfect person to be in the driver’s seat when it comes to marketing Porsche in New Zealand. Her love for the brand is both obvious and heartfelt. “I truly do feel proud to work for Porsche, it’s such an awesome brand that so many people feel passionate about. It doesn’t feel like work to me, it’s something I love doing.”

One of Caitlin’s most notable campaigns during her tenure at Porsche has been her work on The Drive, although she’d quickly assure you that this project was much more than just a marketing strategy — it was an opportunity to speak authentically to women in a way the brand has never done before, “We wanted to tell the story of customers who had inspiring journeys, and really understand what it was that drove them to be where they are today.”

The Drive represented something new for Porsche in the sense that this content is reflective of the attitudes and appetites of a shifting audience — one of the many changes the automotive industry is experiencing right now.

As the brand prepares to launch its next model, an all-electric Macan, Caitlin is excited about the new direction Porsche is heading in to meet changing needs. She also notes that, while the brand is always evolving (and is already famous for its ability to constantly innovate), Porsche still finds ways to stay true to its roots too. “Seeing where the brand has come from to where it is today… it’s so awesome to release a new product like the all-electric Macan that really does set the standard for Porsche and what’s to come,” she says. “It’s the timeless design of Macan that we all know and love, and it’s been combined with new aerodynamic technology that gives it that performance and range that will take it to the next level.”

And, as she gears up to launch the new Macan to market at the end of the year, Caitlin’s dedication to the forward momentum of Porsche is evident — with the passionate marketer showing no signs of slowing down.

porsche.co.nz/the-drive

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Professional practicality meets elegance in this exceptionally equipped new home kitchen design by Arrital

Words Sjaan Askwith | 26 Aug 2024

In an exclusive collaboration, designer Franco Driusso and renowned chef Andrea Berton have seamlessly transferred the practicality of a professional kitchen to a domestic setting, all while maintaining a modern and elegant design.

For the first time, a kitchen for the home has been meticulously crafted to meet the high-performance standards and practicality demanded by a haute cuisine professional, without sacrificing the clean lines and modular sophistication that define Arrital design.

Every detail of Arrital’s AkB_08 kitchen, from the appliances to the organisation of spaces, accessories, and materials, has been chosen with precision. The keen eyes of both the chef and designer have scrutinised each element, ensuring a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics.

matisse.co.nz

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