Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Fran Parente | 17 Sep 2025
Tucked into the leafy surrounds of São Paulo’s Higienópolis neighbourhood, Apartment Sete offers a refined take on modern Brazilian living, where cohesion, clarity, and comfort coalesce.
Designed for a couple with a deep appreciation for art and family connection, Arthur Casas’ Apartment Sete prioritises integration. Social spaces, from the gourmet kitchen and dining room to the living area and home theatre, flow seamlessly into one another, inviting togetherness. During the week, the guest bedrooms double as offices; come the weekend, they’re warm, playful sanctuaries for visiting grandchildren.
Materiality grounds the apartment’s mood: an exposed concrete slab and structural pillars introduce a raw honesty, softened by the rhythm of warm timber panelling and the cool cohesion of Santa Margherita terrazzo, which stretches from the hallway walls to custom furniture.
“Social spaces — from the gourmet kitchen and dining room to the living area and home theatre — flow seamlessly into one another, inviting togetherness.”
Vintage and contemporary design intertwine effortlessly. A vintage 1950s handle opens into the expansive social zone, where Arthur Casas’ sculptural Fusca sofa and terrazzo console are framed by curated works from artists like Liuba Wolf and Artur Lescher. Pieces by Jorge Zalszupin, Zanotta, Etel, and Johanson Design sit comfortably alongside a mirror-finished artwork by Ana Maria Tavares, while smart lighting, from the Grampo lamp to Flos’ Arrangements pendant, enhances the atmosphere without distraction.
Throughout, the architecture favours restraint and rhythm. Arches of terrazzo and wood line the hallway, where spot-lit shelving showcases the residents’ collection, including works by León Ferrari and Daniel Senise. In the bedrooms, oak flooring lends a sense of intimacy, while the master suite, with its timber ceiling, soft cove lighting, and mineral stone bath — offers a calm, cocooning retreat.
Resolving technical challenges without compromising form, the studio tucked air-conditioning and lighting elements into discreet perimeter coves, preserving the raw concrete ceiling and the purity of the design language.
“The apartment exemplifies Studio Arthur Casas’ holistic approach, where architecture, interiors, and furniture speak a shared language.”
Located within a building also designed by Studio Arthur Casas, the apartment exemplifies the firm’s holistic approach — where architecture, interiors, and furniture speak a shared language. The result is a quietly sophisticated home that celebrates connection: between people, between spaces, and between design at every scale.
Somm Wine Bar & Bistro’s celebrated Guest in Residence series returns this month with Central Otago’s Rockburn Winery taking centre stage. Known for wines of striking depth, finesse, and pure fruit expression, Rockburn embodies the extremes of its region, from rugged Bannockburn landscapes to cool Gibbston nights, and the singular intensity of fruit that thrives in these conditions. It’s a pedigree that has earned them accolades aplenty.
Rockburn Pinot Noir
From now until the 28th of September, Somm will showcase Rockburn through a bespoke wine flight and a limited-edition menu designed to highlight the best of both the cellar and the kitchen. The Rockburn Wine Flight offers four 75ml pours — an elegant snapshot of the winery’s varietals, anchored by the rare and award-winning Amber, available exclusively to sip at at Somm.
Chilli Salt Squid with sweet chilli jam and kewpie
Left: Grilled Chicken with parsnip, almonds and amber wine sauce. Right: Smoked Fish Cakes with Sauce gribiche, parsley and lemon
To complement, the wine bar and bistro has also crafted a $45 two-course set menu, brought together with Rockburn’s wines in mind. Expect moreish entrées to start, followed by hearty mains such as venison bourguignon or grilled chicken with Rockburn Amber sauce — dishes that play in harmony with the depth and character of the flight. Whether you choose the suggested pairings or opt to indulge in the full tasting, you’ll be in for a feast for the senses. Book here.
Across Auckland’s vibrant dining landscape, names like Hugo Baird and Willy Gresson have become shorthand for effortless yet elevated hospitality. From the laid-back charm of Honey Bones to the decidedly European sophistication of Lilian, to the bustling energy of Baird’s Hotel Ponsonby, the pair’s ventures have raised the collective bar with hospitality that feels both unpretentious and deeply considered.
This week, they’ve added a new all-day eatery to their oeuvre, anchored by the soulful cooking of Petra Galler, the baker-chef best known for Butter Butter’s cult following.
By day, Mother’s menu leans into European café culture with coffee, freshly-baked pastries, open sandwiches, and fresh, seasonal salads that can either be enjoyed on the go or lingered over. By night, it will soon shift gear into something more intimate, “Simple food made exceptionally well,” as Baird puts it. Expect Mediterranean-inspired small plates — food that is familiar yet somehow surprising, paired perfectly with an ever-evolving wine and cocktail list that follows the same ethos.
According to Baird, the name is less a branding exercise than a philosophy, “It’s a tribute to our three mothers who have shaped our journey, and a nod to the feeling of sitting down to something nourishing in every sense.”
While the food takes centre stage, the setting refuses to play second fiddle. Interiors, crafted in close collaboration with the experts at CTRL Space, channel a lived-in yet modern European sensibility — stainless steel, butter yellow, earthy elements, and an unforced charm. “Mother is unlike anything else in Auckland, blending the bustling bakery-and-deli culture of Australia and the UK with the laid-back warmth of Europe’s most inviting wine bars,” says Baird.
In a dining scene where novelty often overshadows nuance, Mother reads as a quietly confident reminder that hospitality, at its best, is an act of care.
This spring, Auckland is set to cement its place as the country’s cultural capital with a line-up of world-class events drawing both locals and visitors into the city’s vibrant fold. From raising a glass at Winetopia to losing yourself in the rhythm of Tami Neilson’s Neon Cowgirl Tour, to the drama of the Dracula ballet at The Civic and the spectacle of Cirque du Soleil’s Corteo, the season promises no shortage of unforgettable moments. Even the iconic Auckland Marathon transforms the city into one giant stage in November. And with so much on offer, there’s never been a better time to make a weekend of it — finding time to enjoy the many spoils Auckland has to offer.
Here, to inform your planning, we share the ultimate insider’s guide to where to eat, drink, stay and play around the city’s most unmissable springtime events.
A city stalwart, Kingi — now with newly-appointed Head Chef Stefania Palermo at the helm in the kitchen, offers a menu that celebrates Aotearoa’s kaimoana, showcasing a range of locally-sourced, sustainable seafood dishes that draw attention to New Zealand’s unique environment. Located on the ground floor of Britomart’s historic Masonic building (right next door to The Hotel Britomart) and open throughout the day, Kingi is great to drop into for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or even a quick coffee or cocktail.
A long standing stalwart of the Herne Bay dining scene, Andiamo is a neighbourhood trattoria where Italian tradition is met with subtle evolution. The menu highlights house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal seafood, with favourites like fresh pappardelle, bianca pizza, and fresh market fish ensuring there’s always something to return for. An estate-driven wine list and spritzes at the bar set the tone for a long lunch or easy dinner, while the welcoming service and relaxed setting make it feel like home — only with a little more polish.
If it’s a lively locale that you seek, Soul Bar & Bistro is where we suggest you make a reservation. The Viaduct Harbour go-to can always be counted on to deliver on all fronts. Come for the food, stay for the extensive drinks list, unmatched views, and always buzzing vibe. Soul never misses.
Bringing the renowned Ponsonby favourite to the seaside, Azabu Mission Bay pairs its bold Nikkei flavours with an oceanside setting. Located in a historic stone building on the waterfront, the menu offers inventive dishes like kingfish tiradito, flavourful tacos, and impeccably fresh sashimi. By day the space is bright and breezy; by night, intimate and atmospheric with the clink of saké and soft glow of candlelight. The result is a destination that’s as suited to sun-drenched lunches as it is to evening date nights.
Heroing Andalusian flavours in its menu that marries Spanish culinary ideas with fresh New Zealand ingredients, Alma is a one of the tastiest places to post up for a delectable lunch or to book into for an intimate dinner. Serving small, tapas-style plates designed to share, this eatery has become one of our favourites for its unique food, relaxed atmosphere and impressive wine and gin list. (Pro tip: the Tomato Martini is a showstopper.)
One of Auckland’s most popular eateries, Amano is open from early morning, when it serves elevated à la carte breakfast (and a selection of breakfast cocktails), until well into the afternoon and evening, when it is consistently humming with hungry punters. For lunch and dinner, Amano offers a delicious Italian-inspired menu — transforming from a light-filled eatery into an elegant restaurant come evening. Amano’s dedicated bakery is next door, where coffee, fresh juices, pastries, sandwiches, and more are available for anyone seeking a simple takeaway.
Metita is Michael Meredith’s homage to his homeland, and the culmination of his decades-long career in cooking, and as such, brings something entirely unique to Auckland’s diverse dining scene. Here, you’ll be met with a refined take on Pasifika cuisine and warm hospitality, making every visit a delight.
Tucked inside K’ Road’s historic arcade, Gemmayze Street delivers a Lebanese dining experience that feels both generous and intimate. Family recipes are at the heart of the menu, from silken hummus and smoky baba ganoush to freshly baked pita and aromatic slow-cooked meats, all designed for sharing. The dining room’s tiled floors and greenery evoke a Mediterranean courtyard, while the convivial atmosphere makes every visit feel like a celebration. It’s a destination best enjoyed with a group, plates spread across the table, and glasses raised in good company.
Westmere’s Ragtag is a neighbourhood spot with a rebellious edge, where bold flavours and playful combinations take centre stage. The ever-changing menu leans into Mexican inspiration without sticking to tradition, with constantly rotating, inventive plates that locals consistently rave about. The intimate space is packed with personality, from its stocked shelves to the casual, buzzy atmosphere. Ragtag proves that a laid-back setting can still deliver a dining experience with real culinary punch.
For more than two decades, Non Solo Pizza (affectionately known as NSP) has brought authentic Italian charm to Parnell. Known for its lively courtyard strung with fairy lights and a wood-fired oven at the heart of the action, it offers classic dishes executed with flair. Expect blistered-crust pizzas, fresh handmade pastas, and traditional plates — all finished with a tiramisu that has earned its reputation as legendary. Warm, attentive service ensures every visit feels like a celebration of la dolce vita.
Set in a subterranean spot down Tuawhiti Lane in Britomart, Ghost Street is dimly lit and atmospheric, designed to reimagine the bustling, hole-in-the-wall eateries of Beijing’s famous food street. This idea carries onto the menu too, where punchy, seasonal dishes (inspired by a wide cross-section of Chinese cuisine) run the gamut of flavours from tart and savoury to Sichuan and spice — with something to satisfy every taste and proclivity.
Ellerslie’s Bianca is both a pasta shop and trattoria, bringing chef Hayden Phiskie’s deft touch to every dish. By day, shelves brim with fresh pasta to take home; by night, the menu shines with handcrafted creations that have earned this humble eatery cult status. A concise natural wine list, warm service, and relaxed soundtrack complete the welcoming atmosphere, making it as appealing for a quick plate as it is for a leisurely evening.
Perched a sun-soaked rooftop within the Commercial Bay precinct, Queens Rooftop boats 270-degree views of the Waitematā Harbour, as well as delicious food, and one of the best drinks lists in town. Open from 11am ’til late seven days a week, here, you can grab lunch, a tasty bite and glass of wine, or a post-event cocktail (or two) — taking in the incredible views from the comfort of the always-lively rooftop terrace.
Set in an atmospheric, underground spot on Queen Street, The Nightcar evokes after-dark sophistication with a film noir edge — with an impeccably crafted drinks list and late-night contemporary Chinese bites plus a number of tasty desserts. Open until 3am, this subterranean sanctuary is an ideal spot to make a night of it.
The Wine Room elevates the art of drinking well. Spanning a sunlit patio, subterranean vaults, an inviting lounge, and private dining, the space blends exclusivity with ease. Sommeliers guide guests through an extraordinary list of wines, perfectly paired with chef Ryan Moore’s European-leaning small plates. Ideal for a single glass, a curated tasting, or a special celebration, The Wine Room offers a rare mix of laid-back and luxe — a must for wine lovers, both local and those visiting from out of town.
Set within a historic building on Ponsonby’s Franklin Road, Blue is the all-day neighbourhood darling that transforms from café to wine bar as the sun dips. By morning, locals file in for egg baps and Scandi-style brunch boards, while evenings invite you to linger over refined comfort dishes — think Kiwi onion dip topped with caviar — paired with an evolving wine list. Wooden floors, pottery-lined shelves, and a Tuscan-esque courtyard set the scene for coffee catch-ups, lazy lunches, and convivial glasses alike, making Blue a stylish yet welcoming community hub.
Edie’s Wine Bar epitomises European charm with a distinctly local soul. Chef-owner Charlie Lodge moves the day seamlessly from sourdough sandwiches and Basque cheesecake to evenings of aperitivo: natural wines poured alongside house-made terrines, anchovies, pasta, and patatas bravas. A tiled bar, warm glow, and open-kitchen intimacy give the space a familiar buzz, while a thoughtful wine list keeps regulars returning.
Boasting a sprawling, sun-soaked terrace (the largest in Central Auckland), rotating DJs, a stunning fit-out, and a meticulously crafted food and drink menu (no wonder too, with hospitality maestro Fraser Kirby at the helm) — with a brand new menu for the summer season, Darling on Drake is one of the most lively locales in Auckland and the perfect place to be for sundowners.
Housed in Chancery Chambers, Gilt Brasserie is Josh and Helen Emett’s elegant answer to all-day city dining. By daylight it hums with business lunches and sunlit banquettes; by evening, it glows with martinis at the bar and polished European-inspired plates. The interior’s marble tables, wood detailing, and chic sconces strike the perfect balance between relaxed and refined, while the drinks list leans towards classic cocktails and old-world wines, reimagined with modern flair.
Bon Pinard is Birkenhead’s character-filled wine bar. With its cosy interior of reclaimed kauri, vintage details, and a deck that catches the afternoon sun, it captures the charm of a European bolthole while staying true to its neighbourhood roots. The wine list is carefully curated, designed for discovery, and pairs perfectly with share plates that encourage lingering. Whether for a casual catch-up or a leisurely evening, Bon Pinard offers easy sophistication on the North Shore.
Nestled in the heart of Britomart, this chic hotel offers exquisitely designed rooms (plus five suites) designed to provide a calm respite from the bustle of the city. With warm, modern interiors and a central city location, not to mention the option of ordering room service from none other than Kingi, this centrally-located spot is a delightful place to rest your head.
Positioned in the heart of the CBD, JW Marriott Auckland boasts refined comfort with a distinctly cosmopolitan edge. Spacious, elegantly appointed rooms overlook the city skyline or Waitematā Harbour, while the hotel’s signature service ensures every stay feels effortless. With an indoor pool, spa, and acclaimed on-site dining in chef Wallace Mua’s Trivet, it provides the perfect balance of relaxation and indulgence — a central base for exploring Auckland at its best.
Set on Auckland’s sparkling waterfront, the Park Hyatt offers a luxurious retreat with stunning harbour views. Spacious, elegantly designed rooms and exceptional amenities ensure a refined escape, while, at the hotel’s acclaimed eatery Onemata, local flavours shine. Whether you’re seeking vibrant city energy or serene relaxation, Park Hyatt delivers the perfect balance.
Globally renowned hotel group InterContinental recently opened an Auckland outpost, occupying a coveted site on Auckland’s waterfront overlooking the harbour and offering guests direct and easy access to some of the best restaurants, bars and retail the city has to offer. But, given the hotel’s utterly luxurious rooms and in-house hospitality with Advieh, there will be little need to leave at all.
Jutting out over the water at the end of Princes Wharf, Hilton Auckland combines sleek, contemporary design with sweeping harbour views. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring the ocean in, while the heated outdoor pool (complete with underwater viewing window) adds a playful touch. With modern rooms and the bustle of the Viaduct on its doorstep, this is a waterfront stay that captures Auckland’s maritime charm in style.
Nestled in the heart of Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, Sofitel Auckland offers a seamless blend of Parisian elegance and New Zealand charm. Luxurious rooms feature private Juliet balconies, deep soaking bathtubs, and stunning harbor views. With its opulent spa, contemporary design, and proximity to the vibrant Viaduct precinct, this hotel is the perfect base for a refined Auckland escape — and would make an ideal spot to settle in during the Auckland Marathon come November.
Located in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, QT Hotel is a bold blend of contemporary luxury and playful design. Opened in 2020, this stylish retreat features uniquely crafted rooms inspired by the harbor’s natural beauty. With acclaimed dining at Esther and the vibrant Rooftop at QT offering stunning views, it’s the ultimate destination for travellers seeking a chic Auckland experience.
Gastronomic bliss and refined relaxation abound at SkyCity, where a more-than-perfect place to rest your head awaits. From a luxurious, five-star stay at The Grand by SkyCity, to a perfect platform for staying and playing in the city — SkyCity Hotel, to the city’s newest benchmark in luxury accommodation — the newly opened Horizon Hotel, here, there’s something for every kind of getaway.
Nestled beside Albert Park, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is New Zealand’s largest visual arts institution, showcasing over 18,000 works. From Māori and Pacific masterpieces to European classics and contemporary art, its dynamic exhibitions and events make it a cultural cornerstone. Explore its award-winning space, join thought-provoking programs, and immerse yourself in Auckland’s vibrant artistic scene.
Discover the vibrant allure of Commercial Bay, Auckland’s premier shopping and dining precinct. Indulge in a spot of shopping at luxury boutiques like Wynn Hamlyn and Elle & Riley Cashmere, browse Dior Beauty or Mecca, and unwind at one of the many world-class eateries, before grabbing a bottle for later from Queens Wineshop. With chic eateries and curated stores just steps apart, it’s the perfect destination for fashion, fine dining, and indulgence in the heart of the city.
Embark on the Rangitoto Island Summit Walk, an easy hike through ancient lava fields and the world’s largest pōhutukawa forest. Accessible by ferry from downtown Auckland, this popular trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf and back towards Auckland, and an idyllic escape from the city.
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, beach-side suburb 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.
Viaduct Harbour is Auckland’s vibrant waterfront hub, where world-class dining, lively bars, and captivating art meet stunning maritime views. From iconic eateries like Soul Bar & Bistro to contemporary favorites like Hello Beasty, it’s the ultimate destination for culinary indulgence, social gatherings, and urban exploration. A testament to Auckland’s maritime heritage, Viaduct Harbour is a must-visit precinct for locals and visitors alike.
With golden sands stretching along Auckland’s North Shore, Takapuna Beach is the perfect blend of coastal escape and urban energy. Swim, paddleboard, or simply soak up the sun with Rangitoto rising in the distance, or head along the path for a short coastal walk. From morning coffees and gelato to waterfront dinners, Takapuna delivers the best of beachside living while keeping city convenience close at hand.
Set sail from Viaduct Harbour and explore Auckland’s stunning coastline with a chartered boat adventure. From leisurely cruises to thrilling sailing excursions, discover the beauty of the Waitematā Harbour and Hauraki Gulf. Whether it’s a trip to Waiheke Island or a private luxury charter on the newly-launched LussoMare, Viaduct Harbour offers a quintessential ‘City of Sails’ experience tailored to your desires.
Just 40 minutes by ferry from Auckland, Waiheke Island offers the perfect escape for locals and visitors alike. Known as the ‘Isle of Wine,’ the island boasts 30+ world-class vineyards, pristine beaches, and elevated dining in one of the country’s most idyllic settings. Explore the local culture, indulge in adventurous activities, or simply unwind and soak in the serenity. Whether for a day trip or an overnight stay, Waiheke is an unmissable destination brimming with natural beauty and charm.
This spring, we’re giving one lucky Denizen the chance to indulge in the spoils of Ayrburn’s R.M Prime Produce with a $500 voucher — allowing you the freedom to select an edit of your choosing, to enjoy at your leisure. Enter below.
For those unfamiliar with this particular destination within Ayrburn’s oeuvre, R.M Prime Produce is no ordinary store. Nestled within Ayrburn’s picturesque grounds, it’s a haven for food lovers, oenophiles, and discerning shoppers alike. Inside, you’ll find a world-class butcher offering premium cuts, a delicatessen brimming with house-made delights, freshly baked breads, vibrant flowers, and of course, Ayrburn’s exceptional edit of award-winning wines. Each detail has been carefully curated with provenance and quality in mind, ensuring that every visit feels like a natural extension of the exceptional experience of Ayrburn.
Winning means you’ll have the opportunity to handpick your bounty in-store before finding a spot in the surrounding area to settle in for an idyllic spring day. Roll out a rug, stocked picnic basket in tow, and enjoy all manner of delectable fare — from handpicked antipasti to freshly baked breads, enjoyed alongside a bottle (or two) of Ayrburn wine.
Or, if home is where you prefer to celebrate, let the expert team at R.M Prime Produce guide your selection. With their help, you can curate everything from restaurant-worthy charcuterie boards to a perfectly paired dinner menu, recreating the magic of Ayrburn in your own kitchen.
Whether you make a day of it in the idyllic surrounds or carry a piece of Ayrburn home with you, this is a giveaway designed to be savoured.
Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Luke Foley-Martin | 9 Sep 2025
There’s a certain type of person who seems destined for the art world, not because they set out with a ten-year plan, but simply because their intuition pulled them in that direction and refused to let go. Lydia Cowpertwait sits firmly in this camp, though her journey from a high school darkroom to the helm of Sanderson has been anything but linear.
Born in the UK, Lydia Cowpertwait grew up in Aotearoa, and discovered her love for art by accident. “I didn’t enjoy my fifth form year at high school at all, and quickly realised I had taken all of the wrong subjects,” she recalls. “So in sixth form, I requested to study art and design, and despite having not studied it prior, they let me in. If they hadn’t, I honestly don’t know where I’d be today.” Photography was her first love, and it was then that a creative spark was lit. Elam School of Fine Arts was the only tertiary institution she wanted to attend, and when she got in, her future was set in motion.
Flex I by Ray Haydon, 2025, carbon fibre, marine grade black pleather, 1900 x 800 x 150 mm from Sanderson
After graduation, she returned to London to complete a masters. She ran her first gallery at just 27, completed a curatorial internship at the esteemed Whitechapel Gallery, and, in what she describes as her career highlight thus far, co-curated a landmark all-women artists exhibition with American collector and curator Marcelle Joseph. “The exhibition showcased over one hundred contemporary artworks made by women artists, and represented the art collections of six prominent female collectors from London, Europe, and North America,” she tells me. “The response and attendance was overwhelming, and we were supported by figures like Iwona Blazwick and Sacha Craddock. It was a real privilege.”
Fast forward to 2023, and a serendipitous opportunity saw her take ownership of Sanderson, after managing the gallery for nearly two years prior. “It felt meant to be. I was already at the helm, and I felt ready for the next step.” She acknowledges the legacy she’s inherited with a quiet reverence. “It’s a privilege and a responsibility. I’ve tried to keep a balance of showing respect to the way things have been, while fostering changes that will help the gallery to grow and embrace the future.”
“I’m drawn to artists who are truly passionate about their practice — those with a real authenticity to what they’re making.”
That includes a refreshed identity, as well as a renewed energy around artist representation. Sanderson currently has a stable of 25 artists, alongside annual emerging artist showcases and guest exhibitions. “I’m drawn to artists who are truly passionate about their practice — those with a real authenticity to what they’re making,” she says. “I believe that art is a vehicle that can create change and help people to think differently. I will always want to share art that makes me feel something and moves me in some way.”
Kāryn Taylor, Fuzzy logic, 2022, cast acrylic, unique work, 800 x 800 mm from Sanderson
This September, she’s taking Sanderson to the Sydney Contemporary art fair, with a presentation that feels like a statement of intent: fresh, dynamic, and considered. “We’re taking four artists — Kate van der Drift, Ray Haydon, Loren Marks, and Kāryn Taylor. Each of these artists offers something unique, and all of the works will be either new or unseen.”
Bromeliad Garden Nightscape by Molly Timmins (Detail), 2025, oil and embroidery on canvas, 1500 x 1000 mm from Sanderson
When asked for advice on works or artists to invest in now, she lights up, “We have two great young female artists showcasing at the moment: Molly Timmins and Hanna Shim. “Timmins’ paintings are beautiful abstract renderings of plants and gardens, and Shim’s works are playful, soft sculptural works exploring working in a corporate environment. We’re also excited about Loren Marks — her dream-like, vivid paintings are both figurative and abstract.” You get the sense that it’s never just about the work on the wall for her, but a belief in and reverence for the people making it.
And in a world where people often overstate their ambitions, her quiet clarity is refreshing. She believes in the slow build, the long view, and the emotional impact of a single artwork well-placed. Sanderson may have 20 years behind it, but in her hands, its next chapter feels thrillingly wide open.
If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering the neon-lit streets of Tokyo with a plate of perfectly grilled yakitori in one hand and an ice-cold drink in the other, now’s your chance. As part of this year’s Savor Food Festival, one lucky gastronome (or duo) could win a trip of a lifetime to Japan’s capital.
The prize includes return flights for two, three nights’ accommodation, and a hand-picked selection of foodie experiences to savour the city like a local. From bustling izakayas to hidden ramen gems, the winner gets to choose their curated experiences, each of which are designed to offer a true taste of Japan.
Entering couldn’t be simpler. Dine at Ebisu, Azabu Ponsonby, or Azabu Mission Bay during the festival period and fill out the entry form. Every visit counts — whether you’re indulging in the festival’s lunch or dinner menus, sampling Oki No, or enjoying Sip & Savor sessions. And if you’re planning a Father’s Day outing, bring him along for an extra entry.
Thanks to Asahi, this epic culinary adventure is an opportunity to experience Tokyo through the lens of its vibrant food scene in a true feast for the senses.
Whether it’s a foodie pilgrimage you’ve been craving or the perfect excuse to indulge in some of the city’s best Japanese fare, the Savor Food Festival is your ticket to Tokyo. Entries close on October 17th.
Parnell recently gained a sweet new dining destination in Éclair Studio, a boutique pâtisserie where pastries are treated less like desserts and more like works of art. Nestled amongst the galleries and vibrant hum of the neighbourhood, this decadent new spot sees each éclair meticulously handcrafted, balancing artistry with indulgence.
Here, delicate custards, vibrant fruit purées, and glossy finishes catch the eye as much as they captivate the taste buds. Everything is made in-house, with premium ingredients and a dedication to technique that elevates a simple éclair into something extraordinary. Seasonal flavours rotate through the menu, offering a surprise with every visit, and ample gluten-free options ensure no one misses out on the experience.
Éclair Studio’s delectable creations are equally suited to a quiet coffee break, a sweet gift to share, or a centerpiece for your next celebration. The space itself is light, inviting, and quietly elegant, allowing the pastries to take centre stage.
Balancing precision and whimsy, this alluring destination in the heart of Parnell offers a moment of indulgence that feels entirely unique.
Van Cleef & Arpels’ Frivole collection unfurls like a sunlit garden, where heart-shaped petals shimmer with mirror-polished brilliance. Delicately asymmetric, these floral creations play with light — their radiant surfaces amplifying the sparkle of diamonds.
The Frivole 7 flowers bracelet graces the wrist with a luminous garland, while the 8 flowers ring captures the vitality of a glittering bouquet. Expertly crafted, each petal is sculpted to enhance the diamonds’ brilliance, allowing light to pass through and dance across the skin.
Expressing Van Cleef & Arpels’ poetic interpretation of nature, Frivole captures the beauty of a perpetual springtime in gold and diamonds.
A space to slow down, connect, and savour great food and drink, Gather is the latest addition to Smales Farm — a beautiful glasshouse café from the trusted team behind Ripe Deli. After over two decades of bringing vibrant, fresh food to Aucklanders, founders Angela Redfern and Greg Snelgrove are beginning a new chapter, one that leans into slower moments and the joy of dining in. “After 24 years of running Ripe Deli, the team at Smales Farm offered us the opportunity to try something new and set up a dine-in eatery,” says Redfern. “We’re excited to offer the same incredible food and service we’re known for, but in a venue where customers are invited to sit down and enjoy, not takeaway.”
Gather is led by two long-serving members of the Ripe family: General Manager Gemma Heffernan and Head Chef Patrick Schmitt. Both bring decades of hospitality experience, shaped by early beginnings in family restaurants and honed through years on the tools at Ripe. “We’re taking everything we’ve learned in our years at Ripe and building something new,” says Heffernan. “Gather is a place to feel at home, to enjoy great food, warm service, and take a moment to breathe.” For Schmitt, it’s about balance, “Our vision is simple: exceptional food and drinks, served in a space that feels both special and comfortable.”
Left: Green Warrior Smoothie. Right: Nourishing Chia Bowl
On the menu, seasonal, nourishing dishes reflect Ripe’s signature approach — comforting yet full of flavour. Breakfast might be paired with an expertly brewed Ozone coffee, while lunch encourages sharing and conversation. A boutique wine list, small-batch cocktails, craft beers, and hand-crafted fermented fruit shrubs round out the drinks offering, alongside matcha, hojicha, and smoothies. “Gather’s menu will reflect Ripe’s signature approach to food – seasonal, nourishing, and full of flavour, served alongside expertly brewed coffee, smoothies, and a curated list of local wines and beers,” says the team.
The interiors elevate the experience further. Designed by architectural studio Izzard, the striking glasshouse structure is wrapped in recycled French brick and expansive red scoria glass windows. Inside, Jonathan Goss (Ellegard/Goss) and Ripe’s creative director Amy Melchior have crafted a space that balances elegance with ease, layering natural textures, handcrafted details, and cosy nooks. The result is warm, relaxed, and welcoming; a setting that invites you to stay a while.
Whether you’re dining solo, gathering with friends, or celebrating with family, the ethos is the same, to slow down, connect, and savour. “Our goal is to create a beautiful, welcoming space where everyone feels catered for, and where both the food and atmosphere reflect the very best of what we love about this industry,” says Heffernan. “Gather is really about taking a moment from your day and giving yourself time to enjoy the simple pleasures.”
Eggs on toast with smoked tomato butter, house pickles on toasted foccacia or seedy rye
Open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch, Gather is also licensed until 1am and available for private bookings and catered events — making it as versatile as it is inviting. More than just an eatery, it’s a space designed to bring people together.
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