Ayrburn‘s doors officially opened last weekend, and thanks to its impeccable setting and exceptional venues, the sprawling precinct is already making its mark on New Zealand’s dining scene. Last week, we reported on the delights of The Woolshed, a casual, bistro-style eatery promising day-to-night fare that the whole family can enjoy. Now, it’s The Manure Room that we turn our attention to — an atmospheric wine bar and tasting room where guests are invited to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Ayrburn wine.
At The Manure Room, you can soak up a sense of incredible history as you sip your way through some of the region’s very best wines in a setting that’s like nothing you’ve seen before.
In fact, the history of The Manure Room dates back to 1918. Ayrburn occupies the site that was once home to one of the South Island’s oldest sheep farms, and in the farmhouse, now sitting pretty as the destination’s wine bar and tasting room, a manure store once existed. In the early 1900s Australia banned manure exportation at around the same time New Zealand was in the throes of an alcohol prohibition — but Ayrburn’s original owner William Paterson was a resourceful character, quickly transforming a spare barn into a place to stockpile manure, then using that undesirable space to hide banned alcohol — knowing full well that the aroma would turn away even the most diligent inspector faster than you could say ‘hidden speakeasy’.
Over a century later, you’ll still find an impressive libation collection (sans the secrecy and scent of manure) housed in a space perfectly suited to enjoying a leisurely afternoon with friends over a flight of wine, exceptional cocktails and a spread of delectable fare.
Inside, The Manure Room’s cosy, sumptuous space is enveloped in local materials that pay homage to the site’s historical roots. Stacked schist lines the walls, original exposed timber ceilings sit overhead, and sleek, minimalist steel shelving adorns the walls — housing an incredible selection of wine. Perch on one of the comfy stools at the marble-topped bar to get in on the action, settle in for an evening with friends in one of the sumptuous booths, or grab a spot at the dimly-lit communal table. On a summer’s day, there’s nowhere else to be but on the sprawling deck out front, perfectly positioned to take in the site’s stunning surrounds.
When it comes to the wine offering, guests are invited to explore the nuanced flavours, aromas, and complexities of Ayrburn’s own vintages alongside a handpicked selection of local and international drops. Opt for a hosted tasting and you’ll be guided through the Central Otago sub-regions, experiencing a curated flight of exceptional wines that act as a comment on the local landscape. Grab a bottle or two each on your way out the door, and the tasting fee is waived. Or, for those with more particular tastes, you can do your own thing, picking and choosing from the impressive selection on offer.
As for the all-important food, The Manure Room’s inventive tapas menu couldn’t be more perfectly suited to the vibe and location. Here, you’ll find tasting plates and boards of cured meats available alongside delectable morsels such as oysters with Ayrburn rosé jelly, chicken liver pâté on brioche served with caramelised onion and chive, and classic beef tartare with bloody Mary dressing and crisp potato. Or, if you want to keep things casual, grab a glass or cocktail and one of The Manure Room’s picnic bags and make for the The Dell — Ayrbun’s communal lawn set in the centre of the precinct.
The Manure Room, like all of Ayrburn’s dwellings, is designed to transport you to a different time entirely. Here, the drink selection, food and vibe are as impressive as the spectacular setting itself — a place we plan to while away many a leisurely afternoon at this summer.
Soon to be constructed in the highly sought-after suburb of Parnell, York House is the latest luxury residential offering from Precinct Properties. Lauded local architects Monk Mackenzie were tasked with the development’s design, and the result is a sculptural set of 33 elegant apartments elevated over three levels, plus an additional eight exclusive private penthouses rising above on the top floors.
Rangiototo and the Waitematā fill York House’s vista to the north-east, and to the north-west, penthouse residents will have an unobstructed view of the downtown cityscape. On the southernmost side, leafy urban views frame the Auckland Domain.
A slightly concave facade creates the impression of the building peeling in from each street corner, adding a subtle sense of sculpture to the overarching modern language. Imbued within the building are clever, creative responses to the Tamaki Makaurau environment, including charcoal concrete pleating in the facade surfacing that emulates the city’s volcanic bedrock, and a vertical ribbed structure that creates an impressive interplay of natural light and shadow along the curvaceous form.
Each individual space has been tailored and crafted to perfection, with no detail left untouched. When it came time to consider interiors, renowned interior designer Amelia Holmes was an obvious choice, bringing her penchant for pitch perfect materiality and refined luxury to the project. The material palette at York House is a masterclass in contemporary opulence; well appointed kitchens, fitted with sleek Gaggenau or Miele appliances, are anchored by travertine stone or honed arabescato island benching while sleek floor-to-ceiling walnut cabinetry conceals a fully equipped scullery. Elsewhere, timeless timber, natural ceramic tiles and hardy concrete ensure enduring appeal.
Each space sees meticulously appointed living and entertainment areas that seamlessly blend with the outdoors, flowing with ease onto expansive terraces towards the spectacular views. On the building’s lowest level, a private wine cellar makes for an intimate social space to sample personal collections.
A short 10-minute walk will see residents on the doorstep of Parnell’s lively shopping district where the likes of Faradays, Non Solo Pizza, Lamplight Books and Parnell Gallery await.
A perfect counterpoint to the heritage architecture and industrial commercial spaces Parnell is known for, York House is set to become a modern icon of luxury urban living. Exclusively available via New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty, and with construction set to commence mid-2024, those interested in learning more would be advised to do so in haste, as demand is unsurprisingly high for this new benchmark of apartment living.
The season for giving is upon us, and while selecting the perfect gifts for our families and friends is one of life’s greatest joys, giving to those less fortunate is perhaps an even more fulfilling feat. This Christmas, consider the latter and support one of the worthy causes we’ve rounded up here. If you fancy going one step further, call on your friends and family and inspire them to do the same — the more the merrier, we say.
GIVE THE GIFT OF CHOICE
The Kindness Collective’s Christmas Joy Store is one of the very best ways to spread some Christmas cheer this silly season. Operating throughout December, The Christmas Joy Store gives the parents and caregivers of the 50,000+ children struggling this Christmas the ability to shop for presents and food, at no cost, ensuring absolutely no child goes without. Injecting both kindness and dignity into the holiday, the initiative invites families to choose gifts and treats for their children, selecting what they know they’ll love, off the shelves, meaning a more personal approach is taken. The options to support are plentiful: become a Secret Santa, match with a family, donate to feed a family, or simply give what you can. Every little bit counts.
EAT OUT, DO GOOD
There’s a huge amount of food waste and food poverty happening in New Zealand, and the incredible team at Everybody Eats are tackling these issues head-on, one meal at a time. Across three venues (two in Auckland, one in Wellington), the charity serves chef-prepared, pay-as-you-feel food, using ingredients that would otherwise be destined for the bin. This Christmas, they’ll see even more families in need through their doors, and salvage even more unused or unsold food, and they need your support to keep up the good work. You can help them by making a donation online, giving gift cards to family and friends (every $10 spent feeds two people in need), signing up to volunteer at one of their locations and more.
SPREAD FESTIVE CHEER
Sonya Wilson’s charity Kiwi Christmas Books has one objective — to ensure that no child goes without literature. We’re all aware of just how essential reading is to the growth and development of young minds, but sadly, books are something that many don’t have access to across New Zealand. Luckily, Kiwi Christmas Books is here to help, rallying New Zealanders who are already in the gift-giving spirit to buy and donate books this Christmas. The charity accepts baby books, picture books, chapter books, middle grade, young adult and everything in between — even better if they’re by a local author or illustrator. The donation scheme runs until December 14th, so head out to your local independent bookstore and change the Christmas of a deserving Kiwi kid.
FOSTER HOPE
Bringing a little sunshine and hope to New Zealand’s most vulnerable children, Foster Hope collects new, unwrapped Christmas presents for those in care throughout New Zealand, delivering them a gift just in time for Christmas. Sadly, the festive season is a peak time for children needing support from protection agencies and emergency service facilities, so this year, brighten the day of a child in need and donate a present via one of Foster Hope’s drop-off points country-wide. While the official cut-off date for gifts is the 5th of December, the sooner the team can gather gifts, the more time they have to distribute them to social workers around the country, so get shopping!
HELP GET KIDS HOME FOR CHRISTMAS
We all know of the exceptional work Starship does year-round, but at Christmas time their focus is turned to getting as many sick or injured little ones home to their families for the festive period — kids are the beating heart of Christmas, after all. A donation at this time of year goes towards world-class paediatric care, lifesaving treatments, research, and training to ensure the team at Starship are fully equipped to get more kids well enough to make it home. We can’t think of a better cause than that.
KIWIS HELPING KIWIS
Well-versed in making the lives of busy Kiwis easier, this Christmas, My Food Bag is turning their attention to charity — making it easier than ever to lend a helping hand to those doing it tough. The food delivery box is pulling a reverse trick, teaming up with NZ Post to offer donation collections in the lead up to Christmas, dropping any food items donated by generous Kiwis to the Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch City Missions. So, add a few extra items to your trolley during this week’s shop, pop them in an old My Food Bag delivery box, and book a collection — it’s that simple.
GIVE THE GIFT OF SAFETY
It’s heartbreaking to think that domestic violence peaks during the holiday season. While many of us are making Christmas dinner plans and deciding on the perfect gifts for our loved ones, many New Zealanders are simply looking for a safe place to spend the festive season with their families. Women’s Refuge do incredible work in this space, housing women and children subject to domestice violence, and they’ve made it exceptionally simple to support them in doing so, this Christmas and beyond. By donating just $20, you can ensure a safe night for someone experiencing family violence, including a place to stay, hot meals, security, and advice. Gift as many nights as your means will allow, and together we can make sure no New Zealanders are at risk this holiday season.
Auckland’s hospitality industry has had a stand-out year. We’ve seen a raft of inventive, innovative and incredibly delicious newcomers — from elevated restaurants offering a new take entirely, to cosy, casual wine bars aplenty, European-inspired eateries, spots experimenting with unlikely cultural fusions, captivating pop-ups and more. It certainly has been a year of raising the culinary bar, and here, we’ve rounded up our definitive guide of the very best new restaurants and wine bars in 2023. We can’t wait to see what 2024 brings.
Drawing on refined restaurant culture from around the world, celebrated restaurateurs Josh and Helen Emett (of Onslow and The Oyster Inn) have created something unique and decidedly international in Gilt. Already solidifying itself as the place to be for city-dwellers, the new eatery delivers on all fronts — from the menu, featuring contemporary takes on classic dishes you’d find at a European brasserie, to world-class wines, timeless cocktails and more. There’s no better spot to park up for lunch, dinner, or anything in between. We know a future icon when we see one.
Bringing an elevated take on Pacific cuisine to the SkyCity precinct, Michael Meredith’s impeccable new restaurant Metita is a comment on the richness of Polynesian culture — the first eatery of its kind in New Zealand. Here, you’ll find inspired renditions of traditional South Pacific dishes (pork hock, paua and taro all feature, but not as you’ve seen them prepared before), alongside an impressive list of cocktails with a focus on the fragrant rums of the South Pacific, served in an immersive space that pays homage to Meredith’s native Samoa.
2023 was the year that Auckland finally welcomed its first urban cellar door and wine bar — and the wait was well worth it. For wine and food lovers alike, paradise is found at Princes Wharf’s Somm, which offers a stellar lineup of iconic wines and a food menu that is both regional and seasonal. From the clever culinary minds behind some of Auckland’s favourite restaurants, Somm represents some of New Zealand’s best wineries, like Church Road, Martinborough Vineyard, Te Kairanga, Vavasour and Mt Difficulty, and delivers a sophisticated and utterly chic gastronomic experience.
Everyday Wine’s Dan Gillet saw a gap in the market for a dedicated wine bar, where wines were truly the focus, and so, he swiftly filled it with Flor — an intimate, atmospheric spot on K’ Rd. Here, there are over 150 different varieties on offer, with a rotating selection of by-the-glass pours. Carefully selected, the wines pair perfectly with the delicious bites on Flor’s interesting menu, created by Head Chef Tushar Grover and Sous Chef Josh Letele, both formerly of Parnell fine-dining institute, Pasture. Flor has fast-become a go-to for after-work drinks and a delectable bite — and one that should definitely be on your radar.
Birkenhead residents delighted in the opening of Osteria Uno this October — an elevated but approachable new Italian spot from hospitality maestros Sarah and Jordan Macdonald (the duo also behind another lauded Birkenhead eatery, Duo). Here, diners are met with simple, seasonal fare where fresh, handcrafted pasta is the star of the show (the casarecce with asparagus and cavalo nero pesto and the bucatini with mussels and fermented chilli butter is a must), served alongside Italian-inspired cocktails and an extensive wine list. The fit-out is sophisticated but unpretentious, making for a relaxed setting where you can easily imagine yourself spending a leisurely Saturday evening.
Adding to the vibrant culinary landscape of Auckland is a delectable new restaurant serving the unusual but undeniably tasty fusion of Korean and Spanish flavours. Bonita, the brainchild of enterprising hospitality duo, Shanay and Isaac Yu, (known for establishments like SlowLane Cafe and The Breakfast Club), boasts an ingenious marriage of Spanish and Korean cuisine, blending the savoury, bold tones of Korean cuisine with the breezy, made-to-share charm of Spanish tapas. The bar offers a similarly innovative take, with a list of unique cocktails and sangrias, while the venue itself promises a cosy, inviting vibe. The perfect spot to settle in for an evening and experience something entirely new.
Midway through the year, Plabita Florence opened the doors to the newest iteration of her intriguing, plant-based restaurant Forest, taking up residence in a charming space on Dominion Road. Here, you’ll find an array of innovative, plant-based cuisine that uses unexpected flavours and unique ingredients to harness the potential of vegetarian food in a way that is entirely her own. Florence maintains her seasonal focus, with an emphasis on sustainable, waste-conscious dining, and as such, you can expect the likes of whole, ‘upside-down broccoli’ or bakery sourdough served warm with ‘old wine butter’. The space itself is fun, whimsical, and unpretentious — a more-than-perfect spot for a delicious midweek meal with friends.
Husband and wife duo Henry and Debby Onememo tested the waters for Tala’s concept at a pop-up within modern Filipino favourite, Bar Magda, before committing to a space of their own. As it happens, the desire for elevated Samoan fare is very much there, and the resulting eatery is an innovative concept that showcases the very best of Samoan cuisine. Outside of the elevated fare (the sapasui and spatchcook chicken aren’t to be missed), what sets Tala apart is the dining experience itself. Food is cooked for all to see in a traditional umu (open fire) bringing a communal feel to the intimate dining space — while traditional ceremonies and traditions are woven into the experience.
The team behind beloved spots Pici and Ooh-Fa have worked their magic yet again, with their new wine bar and bottle shop Tappo. Conveniently located in St. Kevins Arcade, next door to Pici, the focus here is on showcasing wines from small, biodynamic and organic producers from around New Zealand and Italy, with approachability and simplicity in mind — no stuffy wine speak in sight. Park up for a bite and bottle, a nightcap or a pre-dinner glass, and discover something entirely new, or call in on your way past and grab a bottle to enjoy at home. Salute!
Paname Social is the chic Parisian-inspired restaurant and wine bar that opened in the CBD earlier this year, serving decidedly European fare all day long. The menu has a strong French influence, with many dishes grounded in authentic recipes with ingredients sourced from local French suppliers. It ebbs and flows between day and night seamlessly, offering a unique spin on brunch favourites before transitioning to a bistro-style menu at night, where delicate market fish topped with clams and drowned in beurre blanc is served alongside lobster tail mac and cheese and duck liver crème brûlée. Food is served from dusk until dawn, the wine list is extensive, the cocktails are inventive and coffee is served around the clock, bringing a true taste of the European mode de vie to Auckland’s dining scene.
With Albert Cho at the helm, Namu Group recently opened the doors to Tobi, a convivial new restaurant on Ponsonby Road. Here, European classics are paired with nostalgic, Kiwi elements — each dish presented with a unique twist. On the menu, you’ll find the likes of French bistro-style steak frites served with salsa verde and a pile of shoestring fries, a fresh take on a prawn cocktail, and deboned and fried half-chicken with crispy skin served with gravy and warm dinner rolls. Cho and the Namu team set out to offer an eatery at which you can while away the evening in good company enjoying good food and drink in an entirely relaxed setting, and so far, Tobi is delivering on all fronts.
If it’s an entirely reimagined bar experience that you seek, look no further than Luke Jones andDave Lincoln of Honest Rum’s collaboration with Dan Pinto of Passa Passa — Norma Taps. The result of the trio’s pooled skills and experience is a captivating pop-up in City Works Depot, open from lunch to dinner, serving mouthwatering bites, satiating seasonal drinks (all served on tap), live music and more, in a relaxed but sophisticated and very welcoming space.
With an adventurous menu that shines a spotlight on local, organic produce, renowned chef and hospitality consultant Lucas Parkinson’s new Piha venture is well worthy of your attention this summer. Taking over the former site of The Piha Cafe, Aryeh brings an exceptional fine dining experience to the iconic coastal spot. Here, nature dictates what’s on the menu and when — dishes are guided entirely by Aotearoa’s produce and, as such, change with and throughout the seasons. Wild proteins, sustainably sourced kaimoana, and cultivated goods that are procured with consideration for the environment and the welfare of animals are on offer, and the menu acts as an exploration of our local landscape.
Tempero, the chic K’ Road restaurant serving Pan-Latin food in an elevated way, opened its doors mid-year and has since solidified itself as a firm favourite on Auckland’s dining scene. Pared-back, bistronomy-style dining is the focus here; the menu bringing together diverse flavours and influences from Latin countries. This same theme continues in the fit-out, where playful colours, modernist art, and high ceilings reminiscent of those you’d expect of a typical Brazilian eatery all feature. With esteemed Chef Fabio Bernardini at the helm, the dishes are unsurprisingly packed with new and intricate flavours and are served in such a way that could be seen at some of the world’s best restaurants, but also remain inherently simple, staying true to the cuisine’s traditional roots. A special spot indeed.
Set on the 50th floor of Auckland’s most iconic landmark, SkyBar is taking after-work drinks to a whole new level. Found 182 metres above Auckland, SkyCity’s new bar boasts more than just an exceptional drinks list; the luxurious hideaway promises an exceptional culinary offering and a multi-sensory experience. Here, the beverage menu has been crafted to reflect the natural elements of Auckland’s geography, and, in partnership with Moët & Chandon, the offering is truly unrivalled. As for the food, the day begins with elegant treats by the talented master pâtissiers at Sucré and ends with a refined menu of grazing plates and late-night bites sure to satisfy.
2023 saw iconic modern Indian eatery Cassia open the doors to a new and improved space within the SkyCity precinct, much to the delight of Sid and Chand Sahrawat’s loyal legions of fans. The new iteration is Cassia at its very best, boasting an exceptional, inventive menu featuring the likes of tandoori chicken tacos, and the much-loved charred eggplant topped with buffalo curd and sweetened with tamarind, all served within a relaxed, elevated setting perfect for a leisurely long lunch with friends or a special occasion with loved ones.
Earlier this year an intimate, exquisitely-appointed new oyster bar and restaurant opened in the space alongside Viaduct Harbour’s Oyster & Chop, quickly establishing itself as the perfect spot for an easy drink or a bite with friends. Versatile and atmospheric, The Terrace was designed to complement the existing Oyster & Chop offering (although with a more approachable feel), mixing delicious drinks, a seafood-centric menu that showcases the oyster in all its glory, and a vibe that is both elevated and welcoming.
In case you haven’t heard, Ayrburn is officially opening its doors tomorrow — much to the delight of gourmands country-wide. The sprawling dining precinct, set against the striking, mountainous backdrop of Arrowtown’s outskirts, boasts a series of exceptional hospitality venues that offer a vast array of experiences. From delicious, family-friendly eateries to intimate bars, fine dining restaurants, picnic spots, a gelateria and more, here, you’ll find something for every taste and proclivity.
The first destination to welcome diners is The Woolshed, a casual, bistro-style eatery promising day-to-night fare that the whole family can enjoy wholeheartedly. There, the philosophy is simple: quality reigns supreme, which means you’ll find delicious, uncomplicated food that is utterly enjoyable, served in a classically elegant setting.
LEFT: PRAWN & CHILLI SCRAMBLED EGGS
When it comes to the food itself, the menu is a flavourful exploration of our local landscape, utilising the finest meats from local farms, freshly caught fish and seasonal seafood to craft soulful sharing plates and hearty, comforting dishes. Those visiting for breakfast would do well to order the heirloom tomatoes, perfectly paired with whipped tofu, miso, furikake and aged balsamic, or the prawn and chilli scrambled eggs with herb and garlic flatbread, topped with whipped cow’s feta and spicy harissa.
If it’s a long lunch or convivial dinner with friends on the cards, we’d suggest several exceptional sharing plates — the market oysters with mignonette and house-made hot sauce are a perfect place to start, while the Asian spiced duck, topped with lemongrass and date relish and served alongside white kimchi and nashi pear, or the R.M. Speciality Lumina lamb shoulder, slow roasted and served with lashings of mint sauce (one of our personal favourites), are guaranteed to satisfy.
RIGHT: SUMMER BREAKFAST SALAD & AVO TOAST
If you’re in with the kids, you can’t go wrong with a selection of Roman-style stone-baked pizzas, the typically Southern shoestring fries with chicken salt, or The Woolshed cheeseburger — sure to become a fast favourite amongst mini gastronomers and their charges alike. Park up by the outdoor fire come winter, or take to the sun-drenched deck and while away a sublime summer evening soaking in the unmatched vista while the kids explore the nearby stream and perfectly-manicured grounds.
LEFT: ACAI BOWL
The space, like all of Ayrburn’s dwellings, hums with history and the vitality of something reimagined anew. Within The Woolshed, diners are invited to perch beneath carefully preserved, barn-like roofs, and are surrounded by an extensive collection of New Zealand art, while those dining outdoors will find hardy schist accents, a sturdy timber pergola and weathered corrugated cladding, all of which combine to pay homage to the land’s historical roots.
The Woolshed is an eatery for everyone, where the food and drink is as exceptional as the spectacular setting. Our table is booked, is yours?
“Beabea’s is an ode to the people in all of our lives who create lasting moments for us through food,” Sarah Tabak tells me of Beabea’s Bakery, named for her great aunt, who she has to thank for her most cherished food memories. “Food is so closely linked to memory, and we’d love to be able to create food that reminds our customers of something or someone.” she continues. The winemaker-turned-baker and I are discussing her and her partner’s new venture, a laid-back bakery that opens its doors today in the heart of Westmere.
Sarah met Ben Eyres while they were both working at Daily Bread; Ben was the head pastry chef and Sarah worked in delivery during lockdown before moving into the pastry kitchen herself, and the pair quickly realised how well their skill sets complimented each other, “At the risk of sounding cheesy, it was like two puzzle pieces clicking together.” explains Sarah. A place of their own felt like a natural next step, and when an iconic spot became available in Westmere, the timing felt right and they decided to take the plunge.
At Beabea’s, the mission is simple: deliver an elevated, inventive take on Kiwi classics, crafted using both modern and traditional baking techniques, in an incredibly relaxed setting. Upon just one visit, we can confirm that this new spot delivers on all fronts.
The space is entirely open plan, including an exposed kitchen — a feature that drew Sarah and Ben to the former classic Kiwi bakery that endured for more than 30 years, “We love baking, and want to be able to share how it all goes down.” Sarah says. Considering its former tenants, the bones of what was needed from a practical standpoint were already there, so it was just a case of sprucing the place up and making it fit for purpose. In a bustling bakery, functionality is key, so durable materials take centre stage. Here, stainless steel countertops are complemented by hardy tiled flooring, while the original floor-to-ceiling tiles remain — square patterning still intact, adding to the classic, nostalgic vibe. At opening, there’s only a single low bench out front and a raised perch inside, so it’s mostly takeout for now, with outdoor tables coming soon.
On the menu, Sarah explains that the pair wanted to create something unique but familiar. “We’re essentially offering a selection of the old school favourites, reimagined in pastry format,” she says, “Our mortadella and tomato sauce croissant is a perfect example; it’s reminiscent of the luncheon and sauce sandwiches we grew up eating after school”. Ben’s go-to after-school snack also features, “Our square pies are a take on the frozen ones you’d slap into the microwave when you got home starving!” he laughs. Beabea’s offers all of the classics you’d find at a Kiwi bakery in the 90s; pies, pastries, and bread (albeit not the tin loaves of times gone by, but fresh sourdough loaves and breadsticks instead), and there are plans to expand the offering, bringing delicious sandwiches into the mix.
A hot brew and pastry go hand in hand, so nailing the coffee was imperative. The duo partnered with Atomic to perfect their coffee (which is as good as it gets), but for those looking to skip the caffeine, there’s a special something on the menu that Sarah is particularly proud of, “We’re also going to be serving up milky Milo’s, because what’s more Kiwi than that!” she says.
Sarah and Ben set out to offer locals (and those coming from further afield) a no-fuss, community-focused spot delivering elevated takes on the classic, nostalgic Kiwi bakery fare that we all know and love. They hope that, by reimagining the classics, we’ll be transported back to a simpler time and be inspired to tap into fond childhood memories. A great sentiment, being well-realised at what we’re sure will fast-become a local favourite.
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 7am-2pm (or until sold out)
Summer is finally, officially here, and with it comes a raft of delicious dining experiences that are set to help us slip into the festive season in style. From the city’s best happy hours to exceptional new openings, mouth-watering Christmas feasts, jazz evenings, lunchtime specials, sundown sessions, mental health mornings and more, here we present our definitive December dining guide.
Celebrate Christmas early and in an entirely memorable way with Bar Magda’s communal Kamayan-style feast, inspired by the heartwarming Filipino Noche Buena tradition. On December 10th, the intimate dining room is shining a spotlight on the Kamayan practice of gathering to savour the season’s harvest with your hands, putting on a joyful gathering to celebrate the vibrant flavours of Filipino cuisine, community, and the festive holiday season. The talented chefs behind the eatery’s successful Salo — Salo pop-up, Chino Salazar from Olongapo and Demi Magin-Salazar from Baguio, will be on the tools, so you know to expect something special. For just $90 per person, you can indulge in a full table feast, with delightful sharing cocktails and bottles of wine available on the evening. Book here.
Swings’ New Burger Menu, from left to right: Prawn Burger, Smashed Burger & Tofu Burger
If you’re yet to try modern Korean eatery Swings, let this be your sign to do so. Adding to its progressive, quirky and altogether delicious menu, Swings has debuted a curated selection of burgers just in time for summer, and they’re as delicious as you’d expect. Head to the inner city spot on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday between 5-9pm and select from a Korean-style smash burger, a delectable, impossibly light prawn iteration or the vegetarian option with handmade tofu — all equally exceptional. Opt for a takeaway and head across the road to Albert Park, or grab a glass and perch at one of the coveted streetside tables. Sublime.
Little Bird has teamed up with Sarah Lindsay of Sala to craft a bespoke Bliss Smoothie — the perfect antidote to the busy days and late nights ahead. Available from now until December 10th, this dreamy, creamy, heart-opening tonic embodies the essence of Sala. With skin and soul-loving ingredients like organic rose, raw cacao, Reishi and hyaluronic acid, the Bliss Smoothie will have you looking and feeling your best as we enter the season of indulgence.
For those seeking an afternoon escape, paradise is found at Somm this summer, with a delicious happy hour running from 3-5pm daily. Sip, savour and soak in the sunshine with a number of $7 drinks to choose from. A considered selection of local wines is available, spanning all of the usual varietals (they are the experts, after all), alongside ice-cold Little Creatures larger, and the infamous Somm Spritz. Santé!
Williams has teamed up with Everyday Solitude and Coffee Supreme to launch Mental Health Mornings, an event series that gives the local Tāmaki Makaurau community a space to come together and connect during the busiest (and often most stressful) time of the year. The events will run weekly on Fridays from 7-8.30am, during which you can head down for a casual conversation over Everyday Solitude’s card game. $1 from every coffee purchase will be donated to the Mental Health Foundation of NZ, so you can give back while doing yourself some good.
Welcome warmer days with an afternoon of live music, good food and flowing drinks at Kingi’s Jazz Afternoon on December 3rd. The Circles Trio will be playing progressive jazz from 1-4pm, creating the perfect ambience for an afternoon of aperitivo. Walk-ins are welcome or secure a table ahead of time to ensure a prime position in the Tuawhiti Laneway. Book here.
SkyCity’s Japanese stalwart has long been a family favourite, and this month the kids can enjoy one of Masu’s delicious new okosama bento boxes, sure to go down well. This December, for $39 the littlies will be treated to a mixed box of maki rolls, karaage chicken, salmon teriyaki, vege tempura and a selection of fresh fruit. Time your visit to coincide with Masu’s newly-instated Happy Hour dinner (5-6pm, Monday-Thursday) and parents can enjoy a delicious mix of sashimi, tempura, king salmon, pork belly, lamb cutlets and more, priced at $70 for a four-course feast.
As summer settles in over the next month, make the most of Bivacco’s Sundown Sessions — running until the end of March next year. The perfect setting for summer satiation, with an ever-rotating lineup of DJs every Friday and Saturday, tasty food and seasonal drinks specials (including a series of summer punches), Bivacco’s delicious and convivial offering is best enjoyed at one of its long tables. Here, as the sun goes down, the volume goes up. To read more about Bivacco’s Sundowner Sessions, see here.
In addition to launching its annual range of festive delights, Bread & Butter Bakery and Café is offering a special something for the children this December with its cookie decorating classes. Kids are invited to harness their creativity, decorating a batch of buttery shortbread cookies to take home. From hearts to snowmen, angels and Christmas trees, all of the festive favourites will feature, with participants learning how to pipe, pattern, and place lollies and sprinkles effectively (very important business), before being sent on their merry way with recipes to recreate the magic at home. The classes, each limited to 10 children aged eight and older, are $60 per child and are scheduled for 12.30pm and 2pm on Saturday, December 2nd and Saturday December 16th. Secure a spot here.
From Monday through Friday between 4-6pm Pōni is offering an impressive happy hour menu where delicious food and epic drinks collide. All summer long, you can settle in to Pōni’s elevated dining room, soak up views of the Waitematā Harbour and indulge in the likes of whipped edamame with pistachio, pickled daikon & shichimi on crispy wonton crackers or sweetcorn croquette dusted with comté cheese, served on a bed of smoked chili ketchu, drink in hand. Wine, beer and cocktails start at a modest $10, while small plates start at $12. Walk-ins are welcome, or book a table here.
Satisfy your festive appetite at the Victoria Park Christmas Night Market on December 1st. A selection of the city’s most delicious food trucks will be in situ, alongside a dedicated beer tent and a series of festive stalls stocking all manner of yuletide favourites. There will also be plenty to keep the kids entertained, from live music to art and face painting, meaning parents can kick back, relax, and usher in summer.
If it’s speedy but satisfying fare you’re after, look no further than Britomart’s Bar Non Solo. This impeccable Italian spot offers up a lunch special Tuesday through Friday that’s hard to beat. For a modest $25, you can choose from a selection of Bar Non Solo’s delightful seasonal pizzas or handmade pasta dishes, paired with either an ice-cold Peroni, Aperol Spritz, a glass of Idle Hands wine or a signature mocktail. For us, Aperol is the obvious choice of libation (given the setting), perfect when paired with the wagyu beef lasagne or a mushroom, truffle, gorgonzola and walnut pizza.
Kick off the festive season in indulgent style at the first ever A Very Tasty Christmas Market; a new food-themed market taking over The Cloud in downtown Auckland on December 2nd and 3rd. Revellers can expect all manner of festive cheer, including pop-up bars and eateries, entertainment, a gift market and fun for all ages. When it comes to the food, there will be something for everyone, from Italian street food to a fresh oyster bar to low & slow barbecue, decadent deserts, and much, much more. Entry is $5 on the doors, and kids under 12 are free.
Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Babiche Martens | 29 Nov 2023
With an adventurous menu that shines a spotlight on local, organic produce, renowned chef and hospitality consultant Lucas Parkinson’s new Piha venture is well worthy of your attention this summer. Taking over the former site of The Piha Cafe (historically home to Piha’s post office), Aryeh, pronounced ‘Ari-aye’, opens its doors this Saturday, bringing an exceptional fine dining experience to the iconic coastal spot. The eatery is nestled into the bush-clad hillside, and boasts an enviable perspective of the beach and, from the outdoor area, Te Piha.
Left: Kumeu Strawberry & Cambridge cream panna cotta
Unsurprisingly, given Parkinson’s resume, the menu is elevated, inventive and delicious. The chef, perhaps best known for his award-winning, Wānaka restaurant Ode (earning one hat, and arguably the country’s most sustainable high-end restaurant during its five-year residence), describes nature as the executive chef of Aryeh.
Nature, he says, dictates what’s on the menu and when. Dishes are guided entirely by Aotearoa’s produce and, as such, will change with and throughout the seasons. Taking great care in selecting wild proteins, sustainably sourced kaimoana, and cultivated goods that are procured with consideration for the environment and the welfare of animals is a non-negotiable for Parkinson, and the menu acts as an exploration of our local landscape.
Organic Cambridge Mapari beef
The debut dishes, available this coming weekend, see the likes of sashimi paired with ponzu granita, finger lime, sunflower and kelp emulsion, and fig leaf sushi rice shard, and organic Cambridge Mapari beef topped with three-day Stonecroft syrah bone jus and five-year-aged balsamic. On the side, diners will delight in Piha honey-roasted young carrots with puffed Taranaki quinoa and a Piha herb gremolata, or crunchy jersey bennes fried in beef fat, served with Piha oyster mushroom and black garlic mayo. And when it comes to dessert, summery Kumeu Strawberry and Cambridge cream panna cotta with strawberry sorbet, fresh strawberries and aerated strawberry milkshake is a must try, while the Far North macadamia crumble with strawberry meringue and young purple basil is equally as divine.
If it’s a glimpse into the process and Parkinson’s craft that piques your interest, on Wednesday nights diners are offered a front-row seat to the action at Aryeh’s test kitchen experience, where an $89 five-course menu comes with a notepad and pen to leave feedback, which Parkinson assures us will be treasured by the kitchen team.
Sashimi with ponzu granita
Right: Mojito with gingerella, Cold pressed mandarin juice & Vodka, strawberry, basil and lemon cocktail
Anyone that frequents Piha in the summer months will know of the iconic address, and as soon as Parkinson spotted it vacant he jumped at the opportunity, taking Aryeh from concept to fruition in just eight short weeks. Inside, a vast Neolith Phedra stone chef’s table anchors the space, accompanied by an open kitchen, a spectacular Atlantic greenstone bar, and hardy wooden tables throughout. There’s space for an intimate group at the chef’s counter, a handful of tables on the covered balcony, and the most coveted spot of all, a carefully laid out sun deck — an outdoor oasis with an exceptional outlook, shaded by sprawling umbrellas.
This Sun Deck space invites walk-ins only, and as such, has a more casual offering — Parkinson’s take on traditional, casual seaside fare. Here, by-the-kilo pots of Coromandel mussels, fish and chips with light nitrous-whipped lemon aioli, and organic chicken wings with moreish horopito buffalo sauce all feature.
As for the drinks, an important consideration given the location, diners will be pleased to discover that the all-New Zealand mantra is upheld. You’ll find a focus on organic and biodynamic wines, a vibrant list of beer, and cocktails (both with and without the booze) based on fresh, cold-pressed fruits. There’s the option to wine match with all menus, too.
Aryeh’s concept is unique in that the eatery will welcome guests throughout summer, until the end of April when it ‘winters-down’, giving over its space for events, collaborations and pop-ups, before reopening for the next summer chapter in December.
With Parkinson’s exceptional fare paired with Aryeh’s location in one of the most iconic and breathtaking spots in the country, Aryeh is perfectly positioned to become the place to be this summer and beyond.
Opening Hours: Dinner: Wednesday to Monday — 5.00pm till 9.00pm Lunch: Thursday to Monday — 12.00pm till 2.00pm
With over 20 years of experience in interiors, it’s unsurprising that Lizzi Whaley has earned herself an impressive reputation. However it’s not just the success of her projects she’s best known for. Whaley has used her position as an industry figurehead and CEO of highly successful interior architecture firm, Spaceworks, to champion sustainability, inclusivity and diversity within New Zealand’s corporate culture. And she’s done so with plenty of good humour, too.
Here, Lizzi Whaley sits down in front of the camera as part of Porsche’s series — The Drive, to talk about being driven by progress, the power of great design, and maintaining forward momentum. “I think the secret to being driven is to have a purpose. And for me it’s progress. I just want to be a better person. I want to create better outcomes for my clients. I want to create a better journey for my staff. I think you’ve always got to have something that you’re striving for,” she says. “Design can change the world, and I feel that, from my small corner of the world, I can help make an impact.” Learn more about Whaley’s inspiring story, and what drives her via the QR code here.
With over 30 years of expertise in the art of adornment and an unparalleled reputation for producing some of the country’s most exceptional high-end finery, there is no better place to look for something special than Brent Sutcliffe’s eponymous jewellery brand, Sutcliffe.
Be it a Christmas gift sure to impress, a show-stopping engagement ring, or simply a spectacular sparkly something for yourself to mark the end of another big year, Sutcliffe has it all. And as summer draws nearer and we begin to embrace the fun and frivolous nature of the season, it’s to coloured gems that we’re turning our attention. Sure to add a healthy dose of depth and dimension to any outfit (and a touch of personality, too) a beautiful gem in a deep sapphire, vivid emerald green or a flash of hot pink is a surefire way to shine this holiday season, and at Sutcliffe, there is no shortage of hues, styles, shapes and sparkle to choose from.
Here, we’ve rounded up our top picks for the summer season — from classic feminine tennis bracelets to pavé diamond dress rings to drop earrings sure to dazzle, we’re sure you’ll be adding more than a few pieces to your holiday wish list.
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