With an increasing desire for delicious alcohol-free drinks in bars and restaurants, more and more venues are upping the ante on their drinks lists, and Ahi is one such establishment — introducing an incredible selection of probiotic wild sodas, naturally fermented with ingredients from the Ahi Garden.
Bar Manager Egor Petrov is behind the new drinks, carefully selecting herbs, fruit, and flowers from the Ahi Garden, and pairing these incredible ingredients with raw honey and water to brew gut-loving, healthy tonics. “Good and bad bacteria is all around us, and it’s their misbalance that makes us sick.” says Petrov, before continuing “I wanted to create drinks at Ahi that counter this, reimagining the traditional restaurant and bar offering with the addition of healthy tonics that are rich in good bacteria and support the gut microbiome.”
left to right: Apple Mint and Flowering Basil
My job as a ‘fermentologist’ is to create an environment where good bacteria thrive and bad bacteria don’t — and that’s what I’ve done with our wild sodas.” Going further than the standard kombuchas you’ll find on many drinks menus when dining out, these sodas are unique in that typical ferments are made with a ready culture (like a scoby), but Petrov relies solely on the probiotic bacteria that live on the plants in Ahi’s garden. “I believe that this is a healthier way to ferment probiotic drinks, because a kombucha scoby or a kefir grain will produce alcohol as a byproduct of fermentation, but the method I’m using relies on natural bacteria that lowers the PH of the fermented beverage instead.” Petrov tells me.
The first of their kind in New Zealand, seasonal ingredients available in the garden will dictate the ever-changing flavours of the wild sodas. For now, you’ll find the likes of crisp Apple & Mint, a beautifully balanced flowering basil iteration, and a unique field blend of apple marigold, lemon balm and amaranth.
There’s a new reformer studio in town, and the location couldn’t be better. Sitting pretty within Commercial Bay’s bustling hospitality and retail precinct in Auckland’s CBD, Reform is a boutique reformer pilates studio offering group classes and personal training in a light, airy space right in amongst the action.
Reform has made a name for itself up and down the country as one of New Zealand’s leading reformer pilates providers, focusing on dynamic, controlled and functional exercises to achieve long, lean muscles and tone. Each workout covers the full body (as opposed to focusing on one muscle group per exercise), resulting in an intense session that is easy on the joints, but amazing for results.
So, if you work close by, head to the Commercial Bay studio for a pre or post-work burn (or a sneaky lunchtime session) — and be sure to make the most of the opening special and secure a 10-class pack for $180 (to be used within a month). Or, if you’re new to reformer, grab a one-off pass to give it a go (be warned, it’s incredibly additive!), and if you’re a pro, book a private session with an instructor to advance your practice — at Reform Commercial Bay, they’ve got it all.
Since opening its doors in 2021, Sìso has been turning out consistently exceptional Mediterranean fare in the heart of Remuera. Serving utterly delicious food and exceptional drinks in an inviting, homely space, the neighbourhood eatery quickly solidified itself as a go-to for Remuera locals (and those coming from further afield) looking for an elevated spot to wine and dine. Three years down the track, the now-institution is still delivering on all fronts — adding to their offering once again with the return of the infamous locals lunch.
Left: Crispy calamari. Right: Church Road Wines
Aged risotto
Running 12-3pm Wednesday through Friday, the entirely delicious Locals Lunch features an entrée and main, plus a glass of Church Road wine, for a modest $45. From their famous crispy calamari with nduja mayo, lemon, and chilli oil, and sourdough flatbread topped with parsnip hummus, toasted cashew tarator, and parsley for starters, to the delectable aged risotto with charred sweetcorn, fresh stracciatella and brown butter, and chicken Milanese topped with anchovy lemon butter and served with sautéed greens, here, there’s something for every taste and proclivity.
So, regardless of whether or not you reside in the leafy suburb, make for Sìso, where you’ll always have a seat at the table.
This week, we are collectively craving Ebisu’s deliciously fresh, entirely satisfying bento boxes — a curated selection of the eatery’s most-loved Japanese fare. Here, at the Britomart stalwart (and long-time favourite of Team Denizen) the bento boxes sit as a delectable smorgasbord of the contemporary Japanese flavours Ebisu has been known for turning out across the past decade.
Each box, available for a modest $39 per person (or $49 with the addition of a glass of wine or tap beer), features a tasty mix of free-range karaage chicken, tuna sashimi salad, homemade pickles, miso soup, and steamed rice, served with your choice of either free-range teriyaki chicken, chargrilled Angus scotch fillet with wafu sauce, daily market fish with yuzu ponzu & white miso puree, or crispy, fried teriyaki tofu. Better still, there’s an option to upgrade your rice to either a salmon avocado roll or the teriyaki chicken iteration, for $7, or swap out your karaage chicken to crisp soft-shell crab for $10.
Be it a quick lunchtime bite or a delicious dinner paired with a bottle or two of satiating sake for the table, we suggest making for Ebisu this weekend and indulging in one of the delightful bento boxes yourself. And if this style of eating isn’t for you, you’ll find a menu packed with fresh sushi and sashimi, mouthwatering meats, inventive vegetarian dishes and flavourful umami bites — sure to satisfy any and every taste and proclivity.
The 2024 Iconic Auckland Eats list, featuring 100 of Auckland’s top dishes as nominated by the public, has just been released — giving Aucklanders and those visiting a comprehensive guide to what to eat across the region. Developed annually, the list sits as a celebration of Auckland’s incredible, diverse culinary scene, highlighting unique and beloved dishes bespoke to Tāmaki Makaurau.
Left: Bar Magda’s lamb ribs. Right: Cassia’s Pani Puri
Now in its fourth year, Iconic Auckland Eats was established by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited as a way to showcase the vibrancy of the region’s gastronomic offering, highlighting legendary dishes that range from fine dining to cheap and cheerful — covering everything in between, too. The dishes, submitted for consideration by locals, capture the essence of Auckland, embodying the cultural melting pot and richness that makes the region so special.
When it comes to what’s included, many Denizen favourites made the cut — from Bar Magda’s beautiful lamb ribs, served with pyanggang, green sambal, and a soft herb salad, to Amano’s famous scampi pasta (swoon), Depot’s fish sliders — unsurprisingly on the list for four years running, and Hello Beasty’s moreish prawn & crab toast.
Left: Sneaky Snacky’s hot chicken donut burger. Right: Amano’s scampi pasta
Icons like Eden Noodles’ dumplings in spicy sauce, Fish Smith’s fish tacos, Gochu’s milk bun, The Oyster Inn’s Te Matuku oysters, Soul Bar’s mouthwatering macaroni cheese, and Daily Bread’s irresistible custard square all feature, too, in amongst quirkier additions — from Lilian’s prosciutto and grape pizza to Sumthin Dumplin’s beef and cheese iteration, Sneaky Snacky’s hot chicken donut burger, Culprit’s ‘ugly carrots’, and Ahi’s scampi corndogs (a must try).
As has been the case since the initiative’s inception, the variety of cuisines on the list reflects the incredible mix of ethnicities in Auckland, and each nominated dish has a story behind the submission, with locals sharing insight into what the dish means to them.
While reading through the thousands of submissions, the team behind Iconic Auckland Eats selects a favourite entry that embodies the list’s ethos. This year, Tracy Berno was selected as a winner, receiving vouchers to enjoy all 100 dishes across the year. Tracy’s story told of her connection to Homeland’s delicious ika mata — a dish that pays homage to Auckland’s Pacific culture and heritage, and embodies the region’s multiculturalism and unique food scene.
So, be it inspiration for a venue to visit, or a specific dish to satisfy a craving, Iconic Auckland Eats’ top 100 list rounds up some of the top spots across the region — sitting as an incredible resource for locals or those visiting from further afield.
With awards season in full swing, London Fashion Week coming to a close, and Milan and Paris fashion weeks just around the corner, the breakout hair trend of the year is making its mark: picture-perfect, sleek, silky, photo finish hair. According to hairstylist to the stars and industry stalwart Sam McKnight, there’s been a definitive move (back) towards more done hair, where subtle volume, shine, and gloss reign supreme.
A step back from slick buns, the idea here is a cool girl ponytail with a luxe, mirror-shine finish. To achieve the look, cleanse hair — thoroughly rinsing to avoid conditioner residue, before using heat tools to completely smooth any frizz or flyaways. Once light and fresh, sweep the hair into a tight pony using lightweight styling products to boost shine, before finishing with an oil — the secret to runway-ready locks.
As much as we love the countless eateries in Auckland serving up both delicious food and elevated settings in which to enjoy it, it’s not every day that we have the time to sit down and enjoy a long, languorous lunch. Often, in the midst of a busy day, we simply need something quick and tasty to grab on the go, and luckily, there is no shortage of lunch spots in the city delivering just that. From satisfying sandos to pizza by the slice, satiating sushi, fresh salads, and delectable sweet treats to finish, here’s where to get your lunchtime fix.
When it comes to dressing in 2024, aesthetics are only one piece of an intricately woven puzzle. Wearability, versatility, functionality and durability all play an important part, amongst a host of other considerations — something Jaimie Webster Haines understands implicitly. Her eponymous label, Jaimie, is popping up this Thursday — Saturday at My Exhibition on Faraday Street in Parnell, showcasing the designer’s beautifully considered collection and offering styling advice and insight into the brand.
Left: London Shirt Release #01. Right: Bow Bow Bag
Having worked as a DJ, model and most recently, designer, both in New Zealand and abroad, Jaimie launched her label as an extension of her creative world — bringing together her passions for art, fashion, photography, and music, with her innate design sensibility and impeccable eye for detail to offer a concise edit of timeless, quality garments.
London Shirts & Karate Pants both from Release #01
The ethos behind Jaimie (the label, although the same could be said for the woman) is first and foremost centred on quality. Jaimie sources linens from Japan and Turkey and wool and cashmere from Italy, taking care to select fabrics that have enduring appeal and are built to last. The brand also utilises deadstock and textile mill leftovers where possible, as well as producing in small quantities — all with an eye to the environmental impact of the business. When it comes to production, Jaimie looks to local artisans and suppliers, carefully choosing partners that share her uncompromising commitment to craft and detail. The resulting pieces — from beautifully tailored shirts and trousers rendered in classic linen and the best quality cotton (the core of the label’s offering) to the occasional easy wearing dress or stand out accessory, are crafted with the objective of enhancing the daily life of the wearer. Any given piece by Jaime promises to provide not only comfort, but an intrinsic, emotional comfort, too — and an innate sense of confidence.
Left: Kyoto Shorts Release #01. Right: Vitals London Shirt
But don’t just take our word for it. The thing about quality design, exceptional fabrics and considered craftsmanship is that you need to experience it first-hand to truly appreciate its appeal. Knowing this, and in celebration of her new pieces and the launch of her website, Jaimie is taking up residence this weekend in the beautiful My Exhibition space. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the collection and Jaimie herself, who is around all weekend offering styling advice, insight into the garments, and of course, serving up epic tunes.
The Jaimie pop-up is running from Thursday 22nd — Saturday 24th February at My Exhibition, located at 15 Faraday Street.
It’s no secret that the statistics around New Zealand’s poor mental health are staggering. Our nation’s rates of mental health challenges are shockingly disproportionate to the rest of the world, and often, it’s our most vulnerable communities that are the most greatly impacted. But increasingly, we’re seeing heed paid to an issue that has long been shied away from — with a growing number of Kiwis having the courage to speak up and seek support, and in doing so, inspiring those around them to acknowledge their own feelings.
There are a host of charities in New Zealand doing incredible work in this space — changing the narrative, raising awareness, removing the stigma, and shifting our collective thinking to incite radical change. One such organisation is Voices Of Hope, whose goal is spreading hope through the voices of those with lived experience. They also provide a safe space for those facing mental health challenges. This month, the charity is furthering their important and impactful work, shining the spotlight on a diverse range of individuals through a moving audio-visual exhibition entitled Behind the Smile.
Within the exhibition, open to the public now at Allpress Studio, 11 everyday kiwis have been profiled, shot by renowned photographer Tom Gould to capture the essence of each person in their ‘happy place’. The series features intimate, raw interviews that reveal the lived experiences and mental health struggles each person has faced, portraying vulnerability and strength through Gould’s moving portraiture. The hope is that, by witnessing a group of New Zealanders from all walks of life laying themselves and their struggles bare, others will be empowered to tell their stories and seek support, too.
Everyone faces struggles you can’t see behind the smile, and while this campaign and exhibition set out to spread hope to people who may be struggling, it also sits as a call to arms for us all to look past the surface and be more aware, empathetic, and in touch with our humanity.
Behind the Smile is a free exhibition at Allpress Studio, running from 16th February — 8th March
As summer draws to a close we’re finding ourselves dreaming of journeys to far-flung places, filling our calendars with holiday bookings to quell any post-summer blues. As always, Europe beckons, but instead of making for the usual metropolises we’re eager to explore lesser-known locales, seeking a vacation outside of the ordinary.
As well as scouting for destinations to explore anew, we’re considering our mode of transport, so as to maximise vacation time, and there’s a certain type of travel that sees a trip become as much about the journey as the destination. Yes, we’re talking about seafaring, and we’ve got our sights firmly set on the intimate luxury and exceptional itineraries of Ponant’s Grand Voyages. Ponant, the elevated French cruising company founded by a group of professional sailors in 1988, has been perfecting the art of sea exploration since its inception, and now, the 13-fleet company specialising in small vessel cruising has expanded their offering with the addition of their incredible Grand Voyages through Europe.
Sauna on Le Lapérouse. Picture Ponant
Left: photo credit Nick Rains for Ponant. Right: Dining Room on Le Lapérouse, Picture Ponant
Ponant’s ships are yacht-like in style, hosting between 32 — 264 guests per voyage, which, when combined with quiet, comfortable spaces, hospitality excellence, and luxurious offerings encompassing spas & salons, entertainment areas, shopping and more, makes for an experience akin to sailing on a private yacht of your very own.
When it comes to the voyages themselves, few do it better than Ponant. Their experts know travel better than most and take immense pride in not only creating incredible onboard offerings, but mapping out exceptional itineraries that offer guests insight into the authentic beauty of the world — featuring visits to iconic ports, as well as exotic destinations that are off the beaten path.
Underwater Blue Eye Lounge on LE LAPÉROUSE. photo credit Vutheara Kham for Ponant
For an in-depth exploration of the Mediterranean, look to the all-encompassing Lisbon to Antalya route — a 29-day voyage traversing seven countries and calling at 28 ports. Here, you’ll discover the major cities of the Iberian Peninsula; explore UNESCO world heritage sites — from the Silk Exchange in Valencia to the tower of Belém, the Acropolis in Athens, and more; discover the captivating beauty of the Balearic; dive into the azure waters of Sardinia and Sicily; journey between Malta, Italy, Greece and Turkey, discovering some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful antique sites in early spring; and much, much more. This is a truly magical, once in a lifetime exploration of Europe not to be missed.
Prestige Stateroom on Deck 4 aboard Ponant Explorer, Le Lapérouse.Picture Ponant
Or, perhaps it’s the intrigue of Finland, Estonia, Sweden, Lithuania, Poland, and Denmark on the Helsinki to Lisbon route that will prove your ideal voyage. On this 12-country, 24-port journey, tailored to curious and discerning travellers, you’ll be met with not only an incredibly well-curated exploration across 26 days (with excursions in major cities and lesser-known locations — from Amsterdam, Antwerp and Stockholm to the charming coastal town of Scheveningen and the Hanseatic Town of Visby), but incredible insight into the destinations, too, with onboard Smithsonian Journeys experts and an exclusive discussion with former President of Poland and Nobel Peace Prize-laureate, Lech Wałęsa, while in Gdansk.
However, if it’s an exploration of the ancient sites of Greece, Croatia, Italy, Slovenia and Turkey that you seek, look no further than the Antalya to Venice voyage. Spanning five countries and 16 ports across just over two weeks, this varied cruise journeys through lively cities, historic sites and charming beaches — from the pearls of the Cyclades (Santorini, Delos, and Mykonos) to the striking landscapes of Puglia, The Acropolis of Athens, the sacred island of Delos and more, this trip aboard Ponant’s sleek, refined L’Austral ship is a guaranteed journey to remember.
Santorini Greece. Photo credit Nath Michel for Ponant
Whether an incredible journey to your next destination or an unforgettable holiday in its own right, Ponant’s 2025 Grand Voyages are a sublime way to explore the wonders of the world. Secure your spot on one of the intimate luxury cruises for the 2025 season now, and sail into the sunset in unmatched style.
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