While we all know that a good mascara can change a beauty look entirely — adding definition to the eyes and more than a touch of glamour depending on your choice of product and desired effect, there’s a lesser-used coloured mascara that adds volume, length and lift in a much more subtle way.
If you’re after a more naturally defined daily look, a brown mascara is sure to do the trick. While black mascara is a classic for defining your lashes, switching it out for a brown colour, we’ve discovered, offers a much softer, more subtle and natural look — and is perfect for those with lighter hair.
Though not every good mascara is available in a decent brown (some offer black-brown options that are more black than anything versus the chocolate shades we’re coveting), brands are catching on, and there are now plenty of options to choose from.
In our humble opinion, these are the best brown mascaras to shop now.
There are endless reasons why our favourite Herne Bay haunt is known as a city stalwart — from its cosy, relaxed vibe to an incredibly delicious menu that changes with the seasons, to an extensive list of libations that set the mood come Friday. We can say, with confidence, that Andiamo is nothing if not reliable, and as we settle into the chill of autumn, the teams both within the kitchen and behind the bar are giving us yet another reason (or five) to book a table this coming weekend — adding four new dishes and an utterly indulgent cocktail to the menu.
Maritozzi
Butternut Girella
Given Andiamo is known for their contemporary spin on Italian fare, its unsurprising that they’ve reimagined one of Italy’s most beloved dishes — putting a unique spin on the classic. Typically served as a sweet bun brimming with cream, Andiamo’s Maritozzi is instead a savoury delight, boasting a pillowy soft bun filled with parmesan crema and topped with ora king caviar.
That said, if you’re more of a pasta fan, you’ll be hard-pressed to pass up the Butternut Girella. Here, delicate ribbons of fresh pasta are paired with nutty butternut (an autumn staple), crisp sage, and a flavourful burnt onion brood delivering a warming depth and unbelievable flavour.
The third new addition is the Wagyu Beef Rigatoni — and it’s our pick of the bunch. This delectable dish pairs succulent Wagyu beef, slow-cooked to tender perfection, with creamy buffalo curd, topped with a tasty horseradish gremolata adding a welcome kick.
And lastly, when it comes to sweet satiation, it’s almost impossible to choose a favourite, but luckily, given the nature of these tempting delights, you can opt for both. The Ricotta & Fig Genovese Sponge is a sight to behold. Arriving at the table like a work of art, this tasty dessert pairs an impossibly soft, light and airy sponge with chestnut crema and pear sorbet, with fresh figs further adding to its vibrancy. While on the drinks list, an entirely indulgent Tiramisu Martini now features, complete with house made savoiardi biscuit.
So whether you consider yourself an Andiamo devotee or only visit occasionally, here are five very compelling reasons to book a table now.
“Kiwis love the ocean. We naturally gravitate toward the water when thinking about dining and where we feel relaxed,” Judith Tabron tells me when discussing her new venture, First Mates, Last Laugh — a new all-day eatery opening its doors this month at Auckland’s Westhaven Marina.
Taking up one of the city’s most coveted positions, Tabron’s new eatery marks the hospitality stalwart’s much-anticipated return to the industry, promising to bring something fresh to Auckland’s vibrant dining scene. “I’m thrilled to say First Mates, Last Laugh is a concept that is much different from my previous ventures,” Tabron tells me. “We set out to create a warm, friendly neighbourhood spot that is elevated yet relaxed — somewhere to go for occasional dining, or pop into for a drink and snack after a stroll along the marina.” she continues. And from what we’ve seen so far, First Mates, Last Laugh delivers on all fronts.
Tuna Sashimi Taquitos
The space itself, set in the midst of the sheds lining Westhaven Drive, is pared-back and unfussy, conjuring the easy, breezy vibe of a beach house. The interiors were designed by the clever team at Material Creative, who perfectly captured the essence of what Tabron set out to create. With a palette centred on warm, inviting tones — incorporating the vibrant colours of the nearby ocean, here, the ambience is calming; the vibe inspiring repose. “It wasn’t an easy brief,” laughs Tabron, “But we’re stoked with the result.”
Spicy Salmon
When it comes to the food, the team placed a strong emphasis on heroing exceptional local produce, with quality, seasonality, and accessibility at the fore. At the helm in the kitchen is Executive Chef Cezar Takahashi, whose 15 years’ experience in Japanese restaurants — both within New Zealand and overseas, shines through in the expertly curated menu. A master of his craft, Takahashi draws upon his Brazilian-Japanese heritage and long history of working with seafood to develop dishes that are unique and inventive, weaving in nods to traditional techniques and flavours — with a strong focus on locally-sourced produce.
Tabron herself is also no stranger to a kitchen, cheffing for many years before stepping into the owner/operator role, including a stint as head chef at her now-neighbouring eatery Sails Restaurant. Tabron and Takahashi collaborated closely on the opening menu, which draws on a multitude of cuisines, from Brazilian to Japanese, Asian, South American and, of course, also features Tabron’s much-loved Kiwi classics.
Fresh Sashimi Selection
Left: First Mates Colada Fizz. Right: Prawn Taquitos
When asked which dishes Tabron is most excited about, Cezar’s fresh sashimi and Whitebait Tamagoyaki instantly come to mind. While the taquitos — a delectable crowdpleaser, are sure to be a First Mates, Last Laugh staple. And, while there will certainly be some inventive and elevated fare on offer, classics will feature too.
Hiramasa Kingfish Ceviche
Left: Cured Salmon. Right: Black Forest Espresso Martini
On the drinks menu, the beloved Spritz will appear in many iterations, and the ‘Tiny-Tini’ (a mini martini made with either gin or vodka), we’re told, is a heady delight. Given the location, there will of course be crisp, cold beer on tap, including local craft drops. While elsewhere on the menu, the wine offering has been curated by Tabron herself, drawing inspiration from her vast travels — both locally and globally, to offer something unique.
Tiny-Tinis (vodka & gin)
Harnessing Tabron’s extensive and varied experience, First Mates, Last Laugh is a fresh hospitality hotspot with all the makings of a future icon.
First Mates, Last Laugh opens officially on April 18th at 121 Westhaven Drive.
It was recently brought to our attention that, while Cooke’s — Fable Auckland’s in-house restaurant & bar, is much-loved amongst city dwellers and those who work nearby, many outside of this cohort aren’t familiar with its elevated offering. So, in a bid to educate the masses, we’ve laid out the many reasons why you should pay Cooke’s a visit. From an unmatched locale to its contemporary fare, unmissable events and more, we round up why Cooke’s is a dining destination worthy of your attention.
Located within Fable Auckland — a boutique hotel nestled within the storied Windsor House, Cooke’s is directly in the heart of the city, and brings a touch of old-world elegance and charm to Auckland’s central city dining scene. Occupying the chicest of spaces, the restaurant and bar (much like the hotel itself) is 1920s-inspired, paying homage to the site’s heritage. An Art Deco building sets the scene for a luxurious dining experience, unlike anything else in the city, boasting ornate architecture and interiors that instantly transport diners to the roaring twenties — with the convivial vibe to match.
When it comes to the food, however, the old world influence is nowhere to be seen. Under the helm of esteemed head chef Jay Edejer, Cooke’s culinary offering is utterly modern, with innovative, inventive fare centred on the highest quality seasonal, organic produce — Cooke’s collaborating with local suppliers to ensure each carefully considered dish shines a spotlight on only the best ingredients.
Outside of sophisticated day-to-night contemporary fare, Cooke’s boasts one of the city’s most delicious high teas. Running daily, this elevated affair offers a delightful blend of tradition and modernity, with the likes of prawn brioche rolls and egg truffle sandwiches featuring alongside an array of sweet delights — from lemon glaze scones to pistachio financiers with rose chantilly, a decadent strawberry cheesecake with brown butter crumb, and an entirely satisfying streusel choux with chocolate cremeux and vanilla sugar, served alongside tea, coffee, and of course, champagne.
And, while the culinary offering is reason enough to visit, the Friday live music nights are when the vibrant spot truly comes to life. Each week, Cooke’s promises an unforgettable evening of soulful tunes, turning an end-of-week meal into something else entirely. Settle in for the night, grabbing a handful of tasty small plates off the bar menu, or opt for something a little more hearty from the all day menu — choosing from the likes of house made pappardelle with porcini and scallops and lumina lamb loin with baby beets, cannellini puree and mint jus. But first, before the food arrives, select a pour from the cellar, or a cocktail from the curated list — spanning everything from familiar favourites to inventive takes. While the classic martini is hard to pass up, the ‘Luxetails’ — Cooke’s experimental cocktail edit, offers handcrafted libations that promise an eclectic journey of artisanal flavours.
If all of this combined hasn’t persuaded you to make for Cooke’s, the upcoming Gin Degustation event promises an unforgettable evening not to be missed. Patrons will be invited to enjoy an exquisite three-course feast of delectable delights, including succulent oysters, a delicious salmon trio, and savoury confit quail, elevated further with the addition of two specially crafted gin cocktails and two tasting shots from the National Distillery. While live jazz rings out through the Fable’s hallowed dining space, guests will be guided through a fascinating exploration of gin while enjoying delectable fare. Secure a spot here.
From unmissable events to live music in the liveliest of locations, contemporary fare, inventive drinks, and high tea fit for a Queen, set in one of the City’s most stunning heritage buildings, Cooke’s delivers on all fronts — making it the perfect spot to while away a cosy evening this autumn and beyond.
It’s always exciting when Amano adds new items to their menu, which (luckily for us), given their focus on the freshest possible seasonal produce, is often. Here, the modus operandi is to craft exceptional Italian-inspired food using only sustainable, locally-sourced and in-season produce from New Zealand growers and farmers, and as such, their menu is ever-evolving, based on what’s fresh and available. The result of this, is that no matter how often you frequent this Britomart stalwart, there will always be something new on offer — be it a simple change up of one or two ingredients within a dish, or something new entirely.
Amano has long-been a favourite of team Denizen, and we thought it only right that, after discovering a host of new autumnal dishes and drinks on the menu, we share our highlights. From two new pastas that spotlight the best of the season’s produce to an exceptional burrata, a tasty addition to the dessert offering, and two inventive cocktails, these are the new dishes and drinks at Amano that you simply can’t miss. Just be sure to get in quick, before the seasons shift.
Burrata with Feijoa, Elderflower and Mint
Everyone loves burrata, and it’s easy to see why. Creamy and satiating, the burrata is a classic for a reason, and at Amano, the team has given this go-to a seasonal reimagining with fresh Pukekohe feijoa, subtly sweet elderflower, and a hint of fresh mint. A perfect starter, in our opinion.
Butternut Sopressini
Butternut Sopressini with Pecorino and Chilli
Pasta is the reason many of us walk through the doors at Amano; so consistently delicious and satisfying are its many iterations. And this seasonal take ticks all of the boxes. The expertly made, hand-crafted egg dough is paired perfectly with vibrant butternut (an autumnal staple), topped with pecorino and chilli — a truly tasty and comforting combination.
Eggplant Agnolotti
Eggplant Agnolotti with Capsicum and Oregano
This delectable dish is everything you’d expect from an autumnal pasta — each delightful, handcrafted pocket of agnolotti bursting with smoky eggplant, served atop a bed of rich capsicum sauce packed full of flavour. Chargrilled eggplant is scatted on top, too, adding a satisfying bite — sitting in perfect contrast to the impossibly soft, melt-in-your-mouth pasta. To us, this dish is autumn personified.
White Chocolate Budino
White Chocolate Budino with Passionfruit
Amano is as known for their exceptional sweet treats as they are for their pasta, and this seasonal dessert is a divine representation of the team’s talents in the sweet sector. Budino, for those unfamiliar, is an Italian pudding with a texture akin to a flan. This particular iteration pairs a delicate white chocolate-infused custard with fresh, tart passionfruit and elderflower. Bellissimo.
It’s no secret that, here at Denizen, we love a cocktail (or two), and inventive takes always capture our attention. This tasty take on a martini which combines fresh, juicy tomato, olive, run fino, celery and lemon, is a delightfully savoury drop sure to satisfy.
Feijoa & Sambuca Fizz
This sophisticated yet unfussy cocktail is centred on our favourite fruit come autumn — the feijoa. In this case, fresh, tart feijoa is paired with gin, sambuca, Campari, soda and lemon, resulting in an utterly refreshing (and rather boozy) tipple that will pair perfectly with many of the more rich and decadent dishes on the menu.
In celebration of the upcoming Aotearoa Art Fair, Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, in collaboration with Gow Langsford, has erected a sculpture by one of New Zealand’s leading cultural figures — the late artist and sculptor Paul Dibble.
Stories of a Lost Land is a large-scale piece emblematic of the artist’s most loved subject matter: native birds, flowers, and the kōwhai tree.
The moving piece, first seen in a solo showing of Dibble’s work at Gow Langsford in 2023, is both joyful and sombre, bringing to life in striking detail the beauty of the huia — a famously regal species of bird driven to extinction by early European settlers. Here, the birds are showcased as a pair (thought to mate for life) singing duets perched upon the flowering branches of a kōwhai tree. The work reflects both the beauty and mythological significance of the huia, and the circumstances of its extinction, captured in Dibble’s majestic bronze.
Among the last pieces produced in the artist’s lifetime, Stories of a Lost Land is a sensational example of Dibble’s work — bringing to life in stunning detail his reverence for native Aotearoa. Don’t miss your chance to view this beautiful representation of our native flora and fauna, on display in Market Square until Friday 26th April.
A sharp, swift change in the weather can take even the most luscious of locks from hero to zero overnight, and few products do more to combat the impact of the inclement weather than a hardworking hair oil. In this area, the beauty industry has been making impressive strides, with a raft of new products boasting exceptional results, while sitting pretty front and centre on our shelves.
Here, we round up the best of this season’s must-have mane tamer. Promising to smooth flyaways and tame frizz, battle static, add shine and combat dryness — these are the hardworking hair oils doing it all.
From the Renaissance Queen’s highly-anticipated new album to the sweet, dulcet tones of Maggie Rogers, and a raft of intriguing podcasts that delve into the nuances of history and popular culture, this is everything worth listening to this autumn.
New Albums
Cowboy Carter Beyoncé
The queen of reinvention, Beyoncé has released the highly-anticipated follow up to her much acclaimed album, Renaissance. And while that album may have been the singer’s ode to electro-house, this album is an ode to country music, with the superstar performer making a return to her Texan roots.
The new release marks Bey’s eighth studio record; the country-tinged contents ushering in for a whole new era of Queen Bey.
Song to start with: Texas Hold ‘Em
All Quiet on the Western Esplanade The Libertines
This new album captures the raw essence of the iconic band’s live performances.
Recorded at the renowned Margate Winter Gardens, the album embodies The Libertines’ chaotic energy, rebellious spirit, and anthemic sound in a spirited celebration of indie rock brilliance.
Song to start with: Can’t Stand Me Now
Blue Electric Light Lenny Kravitz
Inviting listeners on a soulful and electrifying sonic journey, Kravitz’s blistering new electro-funk collection showcases the full extent of the star’s musical prowess.
Fusing rock, funk, and soul, Blue Electric Light blends the old and new in a timeless album that further solidifies Kravitz as an enduring musical sensation.
Song to start with: Ride
Don’t Forget Me Maggie Rogers
Showcasing her distinctive sound and heartfelt songwriting, Maggie Rogers’ anticipated new album, co-produced with Ian Fitchuk, was crafted over five intense days at New York’s Electric Lady Studios.
With eight tracks and two solo compositions, the album is a testament to Rogers’ creative evolution, and is set to be one of the most exciting releases of the year.
Song to start with: Don’t Forget Me
New Podcasts
Virginia Woolf Podcast
Through insightful discussions and analysis, this captivating podcast delves into Woolf’s literary legacy, offering profound insights into modernist literature, feminism, and the human condition. Hosted by passionate scholars and enthusiasts, through Woolf’s novels, essays, and letters, her enduring impact on literature and culture is illuminated.
Sentimental Garbage
Caroline O’Donoghue offers a fresh perspective on culture often overlooked, inviting listeners to re-evaluate the value of sentimental storytelling in contemporary culture. With her signature, sparkly humour, O’Donoghue interviews writers, critics, fans and friends — each episode a tender exploration of a theme, movie, series, album or public figure.
Empire
In each instalment, this history podcast dissects a distinct empire, chronicling its ascent, demise, and enduring legacy. From the rise of Greece to The Russian Revolution to the golden age of Catherine The Great, each week sees an enticing exploration of the stories, personalities and events of empire over the course of history.
Switched On Pop
Musicologist Nate Sloan & songwriter Charlie Harding explore the making and meaning of popular music, pulling back the curtain on how pop hits work magic on our ears and our culture. It treats the songs, artists and trends most would think of as flotsam with high-minded enthusiasm, and its simple, considered approach appeals to all.
While Auckland has no shortage of exceptional eateries, few venues in the City boast cuisine as delicious and satisfying as contemporary Chinese eatery Huami. We find ourselves turning to this SkyCity favourite time and time again; so consistent is its delivery of excellent dining experiences — from exceptional Yum Cha to a very well-stocked bar, lively vibe, and the most central of locations, plus free parking for diners, there are very few boxes Huami doesn’t tick.
If you’re not already aware (where have you been?) Huami is home to what is arguably the best Yum Cha in Auckland. With a menu influenced by cooking styles from regional provinces across China, including Canton, Sichuan, Huaiyang, and Bejing, the clever team in the kitchen fuse traditional techniques with the freshest seasonal New Zealand produce to craft modern Chinese dishes that deliver on all fronts.
From timeless favourites, like Huami’s now-famous wood-fired Peking duck (more on this soon), to handmade dim sum (served steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried), exceptional dumplings, pork buns, traditional wok-fried noodles, crispy chicken, and more, here, dishes promise big, bold flavours and are thoughtfully crafted using only the highest-quality ingredients.
And while the menu is certainly packed full of delicious options for every taste and proclivity, the pièce de résistance is Huami’s wood-fired duck. The first restaurant in New Zealand to have a commercial wood-fired duck oven, this dish has become the eatery’s specialty — with their bespoke oven infusing the succulent meat with unique fruit flavours you won’t experience elsewhere. Each duck cooks for 45 minutes, and while the fire is crafted from long-burning wood such as Kanuka (white tea tree), which adds a smokiness similar to that of Manuka, the true depth of flavour comes through in the addition of fruit orchard wood, such as plum, apple or feijoa — which adds a richness that elevates this dish to new heights.
Also, to make things even more alluring, when dining at Huami (or any of SkyCity’s venues, for that matter), parking at the precinct is on the house — meaning less time navigating the streets looking for an ever-elusive park and more time enjoying the delicious food on offer. Details are available here.
So, whether you’re specifically seeking out Huami’s decadent duck, or the mood strikes for an entirely satisfying Yum Cha feast, there’s only one thing for it. Book your table today.
Yum Cha available: Wednesday to Sunday, 11.30am to 2.30pm
Occupying one of the city’s most prestigious addresses, The Villard — a set of utterly luxurious boutique homes, sits alongside Northbrook (a new luxury later living offering) and Cracker Bay (the neighbouring hospitality precinct and private yacht club), building on Winton’s impressive Wynyard Quarter oeuvre.
The Lobby
Lauded developer Chris Meehan set out to create something entirely unique in The Villard, channelling both the chic, metropolitan cities of Europe, and the quaint charm of seaside living — crafting a world-class dwelling that brings an unparalleled style of living to central Auckland. Inspired by the grandeur of traditional European architecture and the minimalist design sensibilities of the Danish, this ambitious future landmark stands as a bold, refined beacon of luxury and understated elegance, offering the kind of lifestyle one might expect to find in some of the world’s most vibrant cities.
The Villard
The expansive residences feature floor-to-ceiling windows (so as to maximise the incredible views and abundant natural light); grand, gallery-like walls, timeless materials, and a quietly luxurious palette based on warm neutrality. Natural stonework accents and bespoke metal finishings add a detailed richness to living areas, while meticulously-crafted, carefully laid out timber kitchens and spacious dining areas make for an entertainer’s paradise — with indoor outdoor connection carefully considered to maximise the outlook.
Inside Café Victor
Left: Café Victor. Right: The Villard Parking
Elsewhere, you’ll find a live-in, 24-hour concierge service, a generous allocation of parking, and on the ground floor, Cafe Victor — The Villard’s answer to a charming European bistro serving espresso in the morning, right through to lunch and dinner, with the finest seasonal food, including fresh, Pacific oysters offered year-round. Added to this are Cracker Bay’s specialist eateries and private marina, right on the doorstep — and Auckland’s CBD just a short stroll away.
Residence Lounge
Left: Residence Kitchen and Dining. Right: Residence Ensuite
Offering three to five bedroom residences (including an exquisite four bed, four bath sub penthouse), each home has a sprawling private balcony and unparalleled views of The Villard’s vibrant surrounds — from the historic quarter to the sparkling Waitematā Harbour. “This is certainly one of the most prestigious apartment offerings we’ve seen, and unparalleled in the Auckland market,” says John Bayley, Chairman of Bayleys Real Estate.
At The Villard, you’ll find your very own peaceful sanctuary right in the centre of a vibrant urban hub, where timeless luxury and joie de vivre meet in the most enchanting way.
To learn more about this exceptional new waterfront living opportunity visitThe Villard here.
For more exclusive access to what the city has to offer, engaging content, excellent imagery and thought provoking commentary on the life that surrounds you, subscribe to Denizen magazine now.
