Azabu Misson Bay

Where to dine al fresco: Auckland’s best outdoor dining venues

14 Nov 2025

Auckland’s outdoor dining scene has truly blossomed in recent years, transforming the city into a haven for open-air feasting. As the days stretch longer and the weather turns inviting, why not treat yourself to a leisurely long lunch under the sky or an ‘en terrasse’ experience at one of the city’s top al fresco venues? To help narrow it down, we’ve curated Auckland’s most irresistible outdoor dining spots. Think balmy air, immaculate vibes, balanced cocktails, and a delicious meal to match.

Andiamo

A stalwart of the Jervois Road dining scene for over 30 years, the ever-popular Andiamo is that beloved local trattoria where tradition meets gentle evolution. The warm, bifold doorway spills into a bustling yet relaxed dining room where house‑made pastas, Neapolitan pizzas and fresh market fish grace the menus, all paired with an estate-led wine list and spritzes at the bar. Tables fill up fast, so get there early and indulge in a refreshing spritz to kick off what is sure to be a long and convivial afternoon.

The Wine Room

The Wine Room by David Nash boasts over 350 expertly curated wines, served by the glass or bottle, best enjoyed on the sprawling, sun-soaked deck alongside chef Ryan Moore’s European-inspired shared plates. The ultimate retreat for lovers of fine wine and food, this is the perfect place to whittle away a sunny afternoon.

Prego

Fancy a fun-filled lunch or dinner with family and friends? Head into Prego and request one of its outdoor tables for a consistent and delicious dining experience. Enjoy this stalwart’s tried-and-true, casual Italian dishes with an expertly made martini or a glass of wine, sit back and relax in the restaurant’s always-busy, vibrant atmosphere.

Ki Māha

The jewel in Onetangi’s crown, Ki Māha, is an artfully designed restaurant with a front deck boasting sweeping, panoramic views. Here, there truly are views from every angle, with the destination’s uniqueness lying in its design, which cleverly harnesses the panoramic outlook to offer striking vistas from every table. The menu is equally as impressive — think innovative dishes, a bountiful raw bar, creative cocktails, and shared plates to savour.

Bea u

Nestled in Ponsonby’s Three Lamps, Beau wine bar enlivens the area with its tasty bites, exceptional drinks menu, and discreet, sunny courtyard. The menu is perfect for grazing, the expansive wine list is ever-changing, and the courtyard tables are some of the most coveted in town. If you miss out, there are also a few tables out front to perch and watch the world go by.

Bivacco

A popular Viaduct Harbour spot for soaking in the sun while enjoying some stellar hospitality is Bivacco. With a large interior deck and wraparound outdoor tables, the setting here is second to none, and the vibes are always lively. Sit back with a crisp cocktail in hand and take in Bivacco’s unparalleled vantage point of the Harbour — this is sure to be one of the most sought-after seats this festive season.

San Ray

The ideal location for family get-togethers, San Ray serves as an elevated all-day eatery that caters to all, with a myriad of options for drinking, dining, stopping by, staying all day, and anything (and everything) in between. Out back, the covered patio is the perfect spot for convivial drinks and snacks, coming alive in the afternoon and amping up as the sun goes down.

Soul Bar & Bistro

Holding prime position with tables overlooking the sparkling Viaduct Harbour and festooned with florals from above, there is no better place to lunch outdoors than Soul Bar & Bistro. Synonymous with outdoor dining, there is something almost religious about our pull toward Soul during the spring and summer months. Order a round of signature cocktails and a plate or two of delicious appetisers from their brand new seasonal menu, and settle in for a memorable experience at this seaside stalwart.

Parade

Parade’s epic burgers are the perfect complement to its casual outdoor dining offering. With beer-garden vibes and a menu of cocktail jugs designed to be shared, we’re all for finding any excuse to tuck into one of these burgers in the sun.

Hotel Ponsonby

Piqued as one of Ponsonby’s most popular gastropubs, Hotel Ponsonby, with its light-filled courtyard and electric atmosphere, is the dream location for laid-back sundowners, followed by convivial socialising when the temperature drops and the sun eventually slips from view. Enjoy the venue’s satiating small plates and world-class cocktails with a group of friends.

Auckland Fish Market

Another great option for delicious food with kids in tow, Auckland Fish Market boasts a range of flavourful eateries that offer something for everyone — from Lobster & Tap to Oji Sushi and more — all of the food here can be enjoyed onsite, at one of the Fish Market’s many outdoor tables.

The Grill

Beloved SkyCity eatery (and Auckland institution) The Grill boasts an endlessly impressive dining menu — and a sprawling courtyard. Here, enjoy a refined take on New Zealand’s best steak and seafood, approached through a contemporary lens, alongside great drinks, and a perfect outdoor dining area to settle in for a springtime meal.

Odettes Eatery

For workdays that call for a long, out-of-office lunch, Odettes’ glorious courtyard offers the ideal setting. Open, cosy, and refreshingly green, Odettes feels like a breath of air amid the busyness of City Works Depot.

Somm Wine Bar & Bistro

Nestled in a prime position within Princes Wharf, Somm Wine Bar & Bistro not only affords its guests incredible, waterfront views — both from inside the eatery and the coveted harbourside tables, but is also home to what is perhaps the city’s most impressive collection of wine. Couple this with consistently tasty food and a laid-back vibe, and you’ve got a more than perfect place to spend a relaxed few hours at any time of day.

The Heke

Known for being one of the best places to go with kids on Waiheke Island, The Heke in Onetangi is a must-visit springtime destination. Pull up to one of the many outdoor tables (there are under-cover and open-air options), and tuck into something from the wood-fired grill while the little ones amuse themselves on the vast front lawn.

Azabu Mission Bay

One of the best spots in the Eastern Bays, Azabu Mission Bay and its Gin Garden offer the ideal setting in which to savour a long lunch or dinner. There, you can enjoy the restaurant’s renowned Japanese-Peruvian cuisine while looking out to the waters of Mission Bay and luxuriating in the season’s long, languid afternoons.

Bodega

Bodgea has quickly solidified itself as a laid-back go-to for city-siders, so sought-after (and delicious) is their New York-style deli fare. With only a small number of tables out front, you’ve got to get in quick to nab an outdoor spot, but the juice is worth the squeeze, affording diners a front row seat to the hustle and bustle of Ponsonby Road.

Darling on Drake

Boasting a sprawling, sun-soaked terrace (the largest in Central Auckland, in fact), rotating DJs, a stunning fit-out, and a meticulously crafted food and drink menu (with hospitality maestro Fraser Kirby at the helm), Darling on Drake is the place to be for post-work sundowners.

Non Solo Pizza

Nestled on Parnell’s main strip, Non Solo Pizza is one of our favourite go-to spots during the warmer months for its mouthwatering menu and exceptional, convivial atmosphere. There, park up at one of the long tables in NSP’s verdant courtyard and be transported to Italy for a long lunch or early dinner.

Cable Bay

Well worth veering off the mainland, Waiheke Island’s Cable Bay offers sweeping, uninterrupted views across the water and an unmatched food and wine list. Light floods through the Fearon Hay-designed space, blurring the line between indoors and out, creating an atmosphere that feels open and airy. Step outside and enjoy Cable Bay’s extensive wine list and robust menu options, while looking out across rolling lawns and beyond to the Hauraki Gulf. Throughout the summer, roam the grounds and enjoy site-specific sculptural art installations by leading New Zealand artists. This is destination dining at its very best.

First Mates, Last Laugh

Taking up one of the city’s most coveted positions, First Mates, Last Laugh is a delightful place to drink and dine, with a number of outdoor seating options, a tasty menu with both grazing options and hearty meals on offer, alongside great drinks. Nab one of the cosy booths under shade tents, or, if you want to soak up the day’s rays, settle in on the front deck overlooking Westhaven Marina.

Swashbucklers

For a classic feed and some drinks by the water, nowhere does casual, laid-back vibes and tasty, easy food like Swashbucklers. Gather some friends, bring the kids, park up at an outside table and tuck into one of Swashies’ famous seafood platters. The perfect way to while away a sunny afternoon.

Man O’ War

Should you find yourself on Waiheke Island, seeking something substantial to eat after a long day sailing the seas, pull up a perch on Man O’ War’s beloved lawn. With a simple food offering of sharing plates and pizzas, alongside the famous oyster food truck, this is the epitome of springtime dining.

Blue

Neighbourhood café by day, wine bar by night, Blue on Franklin has fast become a favourite among the Ponsonby community — and for good reason. Here, the warm brick interior spills into a sun-drenched courtyard, ideal for small get-togethers and easy entertaining. The menu evolves with the seasons, bolstered by a substantial wine list that heralds boutique producers from near and far.

Queens Rooftop

With 270-degree views of the Waitematā Harbour, Queens Rooftop is the pinnacle of al fresco dining, affording diners views east to the Coromandel, to the north, and west to the Waitakere Ranges. Grab a table as the sun goes down, order a selection of tasty bites and a satiating cocktail, and see where the night takes you.

Knead on Benson

On a coveted corner in Remuera, Knead on Benson turns out epic brunch and lunch fare, with a number of outdoor tables lining the street — adding to the neighbourhood eatery’s vibrant ambience. Here, you’re greeted like an old friend by staff and diners alike, and can count on always-perfect coffee and food sure to satisfy even the most discerning of diners.

Milenta

Nestled in Victoria Park is a hidden gem serving delicious Argentinian-inspired, wood-fired food. On a sunny day, Milenta’s retractable roof will be pulled right back to offer diners a full, al fresco experience, with the sun spilling through the tree-lined surroundings for a beautiful, memorable experience.

The Butcher Baker

For those slightly further afield, Helensville’s The Butcher Baker instantly transports you to al fresco dining in faraway climes. Paying homage to the rich history of its building (formerly both a baker and a butcher — hence the name), The Butcher Baker juxtaposes new and old. Fronted by an expansive courtyard — a delightful spot to sit and soak in the sun — the brick building has undergone a fresh, modern refit. Expect refined menu classics designed for sharing, along with a master list of local and international wines.

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Inside Bvlgari’s landmark new exhibition in Tokyo

14 Nov 2025

In a move that underlines its reputation as much more than a luxury jeweller, Bvlgari has opened Kaleidos: Colors, Cultures and Crafts. The Maison’s largest exhibition ever in Japan — at The National Art Centre, Tokyo (NACT). From September 17th to December 15th, the exhibition offers an immersive exploration of colour, craftsmanship and creative exchange, and represents Bvlgari’s first major exhibition in the country in ten years.

“Kaleidos” from the Greek kalos (beautiful) and eidos (form), is not just a retrospective of jewellery, it is a three‑chapter voyage through Bvlgari’s legacy of colour, from its formative years to its most daring contemporary creations.

The staging is generous, with nearly 350 chromatic masterpieces drawn from Bvlgari’s Heritage Collection and prestigious private lenders. The venue spans 2,000 square meters, with architecture and scenography that harmonise Roman boldness with Japanese refinement.

Collaborators include SANAA (Japan) and Formafantasma (Italy), whose design work threads curves, translucency, light, mosaics and structural references to both Roman and Japanese culture, guiding visitors through a series of chambers shaped in the motif of the ginkgo leaf.

Bvlgari bangle in gold and platinum with rubies, sapphire and diamonds, Bvlgari Heritage Collection

Bvlgari “Bib” necklace in gold and platinum with emeralds, amethysts, turquoises and diamonds, Bvlgari Heritage Collection

At the heart of Kaleidos is a curatorial reverence for colour, not just as decoration, but as design language. The exhibition opens with archival works like a 1940s citrine and diamond bracelet that radiates with amber warmth, never previously shown outside Italy. From there, visitors move through a historical arc of daring experimentation: a mid-century bangle where sapphires and rubies sit boldly in yellow gold, or Serpenti necklaces that pulse with chromatic tension, from white enamel and rubies to black enamel and diamonds. These pieces are not just technically exquisite; they are emotionally articulate, each chosen for the story it tells through tone.

Bvlgari “seven wonders” necklace in platinum with emeralds and diamonds, 1961, Bvlgari Heritage Collection

Among the most iconic pieces on display is the “Seven Wonders” emerald necklace from 1961, a masterpiece once worn by Monica Vitti and Gina Lollobrigida. Its lush green stones and regal weight carry the gravitas of cinema’s golden era and the finesse of Roman craftsmanship. In another room, a convertible sautoir‑bracelet from 1969 stuns with its versatility and saturated gem tones — amethysts, citrines, turquoises, rubies, and emeralds moving like light across metal. These works are theatrical in scale but never excessive; their drama lies in precision and proportion.

Bvlgari convertible sautoir‑bracelet in gold with amethysts, citrines, turquoises, rubies, emeralds and diamonds, Bvlgari Heritag Collection

Beyond the jewellery, three contemporary artists, Lara Favaretto, Mariko Mori, and Akiko Nakayama, contribute installations that punctuate each chapter. Favaretto’s kinetic work, Mori’s mythic, light‑prismatic installations, and Nakayama’s immersive “alive paintings” in the final chapter give pause between displays of gems.

The opening night set the tone: a sit‑down dinner celebrating not just jewellery, but the shared artistic culture between Italy and Japan. Tokyo, especially in Roppongi at NACT, serves as a suitably atmospheric stage. The modern architectural shell of the National Art Center, paired with the exhibition’s flowing spatial design, allows lights and colours to bounce, shadows to shift, and viewers to engage both intimately and expansively. It feels very intentional: heritage pieces under soft light, modern interpretations under immersive projections.

What this exhibition does well is affirm Bvlgari’s role not merely as a jeweller but as a storyteller through gems. It’s rare to see such bold curation rooted in archival rigour but presented with the theatricality that colour demands. It’s also a celebration of craft in its many forms: gem cutting (cabochon notably), enamelling, inventive combinations of stones, even sculptural interplay with light.

For those with a taste for luxury, design, or simply beautiful things, Kaleidos is a reminder that jewellery can do more than adorn; it can communicate culture, memory, and identity, and act as a bridge between the past and the present.

bulgari.com/kaleidos

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The Ayrburn Classic returns this summer, promising a weekend of spectacle and style

14 Nov 2025

Car enthusiasts share a rare devotion, one defined by camaraderie, nostalgia, and reverence for the art of engineering. Returning for its second year, the Ayrburn Classic is more than an event; it is a vibrant convergence of heritage and hospitality that cements Ayrburn as a must-visit destination for motoring enthusiasts.

On Saturday, February 20th, more than 250 exceptional vehicles will pull in to the precinct, expanding on last year’s resounding success. As summer reaches its zenith, the lawns will gleam with mid-century American icons, post-war British masterpieces, rare vintage treasures, and contemporary supercars, each showcased across nine remarkable feature classes.

Following its celebrated debut, the 2026 programme elevates expectations with an engaging schedule tailored for both seasoned collectors and curious newcomers. Friday evening welcomes exhibitors and car owners, while Saturday ushers in open gates. Car entries are now divided into two headline categories: the Ayrburn Classic Class, where experts judge rare and meticulously restored cars, and the Show Field Class, an open and spirited display for all. Together, they set the stage for a weekend of competition, connection, and spectacle. Throughout the event, the spirit of community motoring takes centre stage. Guests can savour exceptional food and drink across the Ayrburn Precinct, including the delectable new modern Chinese eatery, Billy’s. More than a showcase, the Ayrburn Classic is a gathering of passion, an unforgettable weekend celebrating heritage, craftsmanship, and the shared joy of the drive.

A celebration of motoring heritage and innovation, the Ayrburn Classic delivers a sophisticated festival atmosphere set against the spectacular backdrop of one of New Zealand’s finest hospitality destinations. Reflecting its growing international prestige, the event has been shortlisted for Breakthrough Event of the Year at the International Historic Motoring Awards 2025, with winners to be announced in London in November — a testament to Ayrburn’s world-class vision and its enduring commitment to excellence.

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ayrburnclassic.com

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Polka dots are back — here’s how to embrace fashion’s favourite retro print

13 Nov 2025

High contrast, monochromatic polka dots are back, and we couldn’t be happier. An unfailing fashion formula, whether in micro dots or oversized spots, floaty silk or draped chiffon, this iconic print brings whimsy and classic charm to traditional silhouettes and ultra-feminine fits. Think Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman or Claudia Schiffer circa ’95. Connect the dots and don top to toe.

Brandon Maxwell Riviera Polka dot Dress from Moda Operandi

Isabel Marant Peleo polka-dot mesh pumps from Farfetch

Rodarte Flower-Detailed Polka-Dot Dress from Moda Operandi

Magda Butrym Polka-dot mini dress from Mytheresa

Francoise Mila Pants in Polka Dots from Muse

Dolce & Gabbana polka-dot playsuit from Farfetch

Prada Bow-detail polka-dot hair clip from Mythersa

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A new chapter for Bvlgari, the evolution of an icon

12 Nov 2025

Under the creative direction of Mary Katrantzou, Bvlgari’s Serpenti in Conversation ushers in a new chapter of collaboration and artistry. The debut edition invites Géraldine Guyo, founder and Creative Director of DESTREE, to reinterpret the iconic Serpentine Top-Handle bag.

Left: Mary Katrantzou. Right: Géraldine Guyo

Renowned for her sculptural, art-driven aesthetic, Guyot brings a refined playfulness to the piece, weaving intricate metal passementerie through its serpentine curves. The result is a masterful dialogue between Bvlgari’s storied jewellery heritage and Parisian modernism. A celebration of sensual form, bold craftsmanship and timeless creative evolution.

Shop The Collection

Serpentine Top Handle in ivory calf leather from Bvlgari

Serpentine Top Handle in brown Nabuk from Bvlgari

Serpentine Mini top handle bag in black satin from Bvlgari

Serpentine Mini top handle bag in Red Satin from Bvlgari

bulgari.com

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Westmere welcomes Hōchō Eathouse, offering an authentic, affordable taste of Japan

12 Nov 2025

Westmere’s West End Road continues its quiet transformation into a local dining destination, now welcoming Hōchō Eathouse, an intimate new Japanese eatery that’s already drawing in curious locals. Helmed by chef and knife specialist Kenta Kawano, Hōchō brings its own authenticity to Westmere’s neighbourhood dining scene. Here, culinary craft and community meet over a bowl of ramen or a unique scoop of matcha ice cream.

Having spent years leading kitchens around New Zealand, most recently as head chef at Soho Thai Kitchen, Kawano is also one of the country’s few professional knife sharpeners. “I use traditional Japanese natural whetstones,” he says. “I restore broken knives and even turn gyuto chef’s knives into sashimi knives.” The restaurant’s name, Hōchō, takes its cue from the Japanese word for “knife,” a nod to the precision and respect for craft that defines Kawano’s philosophy.

Hōchō’s food philosophy stems from a collective of chefs with fine-dining pedigrees who sought to strip things back. “Rather than doing another high-end concept with fancy garnishes and $40 plates with tiny portions, we wanted to create something homely, approachable, and affordable,” says Kawano. “A place where anyone can walk in and enjoy genuinely good Japanese food.”

The menu reflects that ethos with refined yet comforting dishes. The clear chicken-broth ramen, topped with oyster mushrooms, is a nourishing example of simplicity done well, rich in depth yet light enough to enjoy any day of the week. While matcha daifuku ice cream, infused with salted sakura blossoms, is delicate and quietly surprising, offering a subtle floral sweetness that lingers. “We use our fine-dining experience to make simple ingredients shine,” explains Kawano. “Real Japanese food should be delicious, beautiful, and nourishing. We don’t rely too much on salt; it’s all about balance and the natural flavour of the ingredients.”

A simple drinks menu will soon give way to an impressive sake selection once the liquor licence comes through, including a collaboration with a new local sake brewery serving sake on tap. He hints at a collaboration with a new local sake brewery serving on tap from kegs, in another first for Auckland. “Once that happens,” Kawano laughs, “it’s going to be sake, sake, and more sake.”

The space itself mirrors the food: minimal, clean, and relaxed, with an atmosphere that invites regular visits. Soon, Hōchō will introduce Japanese rice imported by Wakka Japan, the same supplier used by top restaurants globally. “We’ll mill it fresh the day before cooking and prepare it in a traditional hagama pot,” says Kawano. “The pot lets the rice absorb heat evenly, giving it a delicate aroma and chewy texture. Even in Japan, most people don’t get to eat rice like this.”

For Kawano, it all comes back to simplicity and sincerity. “We don’t expect anything fancy,” he says. “We just want people to come, eat, and leave saying, ‘That was really good.”

Opening Hours:
Monday — Sunday, 11 am — 9 pm

hocho.co.nz

127 West End Road
Westmere
Auckland

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Autonomy: The Future of Personalised Health

12 Nov 2025

We’ve become a generation fluent in fatigue. Ask anyone how they are these days, and the answers rarely stray from “busy” or “tired.” It’s the quiet chorus of post-pandemic life, the lingering burnout, the sleepless nights, the brain fog we’ve learned to dismiss as normal. We push through, caffeine in hand, convinced that if the doctor says we’re fine, we must be. But what if fine is the problem?

That’s the question at the heart of Autonomy, a new kind of health practice built for those who’ve outgrown surface-level wellness. For many, the standard approach to healthcare has become reactive and impersonal — a cycle of annual blood tests, generic advice, and supplement routines that fail to deliver true vitality. Autonomy fills that gap in a way that feels both deeply scientific and profoundly human.

Here, medicine meets meaning. It begins with a Discovery Consultation, a one-hour session that feels more like an investigation than an appointment. Led by qualified doctors, the Autonomy team, which also includes health coaches and nurses, takes the time to truly listen before performing five key biomarker tests. These initial insights form the foundation for understanding each client’s unique biology and identifying areas where further investigation may be necessary.

“ What makes Autonomy compelling isn’t just the data; it’s what they do with it. Each client leaves with a bespoke, medically-led plan that translates complex science into something actionable.”

Those who wish to go further move into the Early Wins program, a medically led protocol that explores more than 100 advanced biomarkers. From insulin sensitivity and inflammation to thyroid balance, cortisol rhythms and nutrient status, the testing creates a detailed picture of how the body is performing beneath the surface and what it needs to function optimally.

It’s astonishing what emerges when you look closer. Someone who “eats well and exercises” might discover they are insulin resistant, a silent precursor to diabetes that routine tests often miss. Another may learn their cortisol curve is inverted, too high at night and too low in the morning, explaining wired evenings and foggy starts. Elevated homocysteine might reveal early vascular strain, while nutrient deficiencies can expose the biochemical roots of fatigue, anxiety or cognitive decline. These small, invisible imbalances quietly undermine longevity until now.

What makes Autonomy compelling is not just the science but the strategy. Each client receives a bespoke, ongoing plan led by a personal doctor, supported by a dedicated health coach and nurse. This is not about quick fixes but measurable transformation. Recommendations are precision-tailored: nutrition designed to stabilise blood sugar and reduce inflammation, movement programmed to strengthen mitochondria and preserve muscle mass, and stress recovery guided by measurable data such as sleep quality, heart rate variability and cortisol patterns. Every plan evolves as the body does, ensuring long-term sustainability over short-term gains.

For those who want to go even deeper, Autonomy now offers DNA testing, GLP-1 support, and Whole Body MRI Wellness Scans, the next frontier in proactive health. Already adopted by leading longevity clinics worldwide, these tools help clients understand their genetic predispositions, metabolic pathways, and early risk indicators. The MRI scan, for instance, provides a radiation-free view of most organs and systems, revealing inflammation or early changes before symptoms appear. Autonomy’s medical team interprets each result to ensure context, clarity, and care —never fear or confusion.

“It’s not a detox or a diet, it’s a recalibration. One that empowers you to make decisions about your body from a place of knowledge rather than noise.”

Importantly, Autonomy does not only cater to those chasing peak performance. Many clients arrive seeking relief from chronic pain, fatigue or recurring symptoms that conventional medicine has failed to resolve. By identifying root causes, whether metabolic, hormonal or neurological, the team helps patients reduce pain, restore energy and change their trajectory away from chronic disease.

Autonomy’s 30-day Early Wins program remains the foundation where transformation begins. Within weeks, energy steadies, focus sharpens, and sleep becomes truly restorative. It is not a detox or a diet; it is a recalibration, one that empowers people to make decisions about their bodies from a place of knowledge rather than noise.

What stands out most is how grounded the process feels. There is no evangelising and no unattainable perfectionism. Just an intelligent, medically guided structure for living better in real time, proof that science and self-care can coexist meaningfully.

Because ultimately, longevity is not about chasing youth; it is about sustaining vitality. In an age where our devices track everything except how we actually feel, Autonomy offers something radical: a return to understanding ourselves. For those juggling business, family and the relentless pace of modern life, this is not just about adding years; it is about making those years count.

autonomy.health

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Is your partner holding you back?

11 Nov 2025

They might be your beloved other half, but they might also be the flesh and bones equivalent of the ol’ ball and chain; a deep-sea anchor putting a stop to your journey into the giddy realms of success.

Unsure as to whether your significant other is holding you back? We’ve come up with a few key indicators that will sort the worthy suitors from the downright embarrassing, helping you wade through the murky waters of indecision towards a clearer mindset.

Ambition

Or more specifically, the lack of it. You’re a high achiever operating at optimal efficiency, intent on making it in the big leagues. Still, you’re tangled up with a lass or lad whose idea of achievement is becoming a micro-influencer — they’ve been “finding themselves” in Byron for almost four years. Sound familiar? Playing house with this personality type isn’t going to help you rise to the top; you’re much more likely to find yourself meandering down the path to mediocrity — and picking up the bill — instead.

Upkeep

Whatever David Harbour lacked in polish, he made up for with Lily Allen’s enduring style and cool-girl energy. After all, there’s nothing like having an enigmatic partner on your arm to boost flailing popularity. Superficial but undeniably true. While we can’t all have a Lily in our lives (huge fumble), we can ditch the duds: shoddy grooming habits, a penchant for UGG boots (in public places), and an unhealthy affection for an old-school spray tan. After all, it’s a slippery slope, and flouncing about with what looks like a $2 hooker on your arm isn’t going to cut it, no matter how great their ‘personality’ is.

Humour

Sure, they can hold a conversation with your parents, but can they work a room? Being a drip with zero chat isn’t going to do you any favours out in the real world; if your partner is repelling your work colleagues with limp jokes and tense small talk, this reflects badly on you. At the other extreme, if they allow words to tumble out of them as if stricken with a bad case of verbal diarrhoea, you’ll be left trying to put a plug in it before they blurt out something embarrassing in front of clients or that senior partner that makes or breaks your fate at work. Save the Labrador energy for the bedroom.

Manners

“Manners maketh the man.” What we’re politely trying to convey is that a gracious and charming partner in crime will make the path to success a smooth one, while a sarcastic, rude accomplice will make it nigh impossible. If you’ve been gifted the latter, either lock ‘em up or give them the flick. We all know bad manners when we see them, whether it’s the wench shouting into her phone mid-dinner party or the drunkard singlehandedly cleaning up the bar tab, and shacking up with a repeat offender will do nothing but tarnish your glittering reputation.

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Trenzseater stands as a legacy brand, celebrated for its enduring design sensibility

10 Nov 2025

For those seeking interiors that exude sophistication, Trenzseater has established itself as a leader in New Zealand’s design landscape. Founded by Ben and Hamish Lewis, the company offers a comprehensive interior design service that spans residential and commercial projects, working closely with clients from concept through to completion. The approach is both collaborative and meticulous, ensuring every element — from bespoke furniture and drapery to lighting, rugs, and accessories — is layered into a cohesive, highly personalised scheme.

“Our process is about creating something unique for each client,” says creative director Ben Lewis. “It’s a journey designed to be enjoyed, with every stage delivering a sense of discovery.” That dedication has garnered international acclaim.

Trenzseater has been recognised as a finalist in the prestigious Andrew Martin Interior Design Review in London, shortlisted in the SBID International Design Awards for seven consecutive years, and celebrated in the Design et al International Design & Architecture Awards, where Lewis won the ‘Global Interior Design Scheme’ category in 2019. More recently, Trenzseater secured the ‘Interior Scheme Australasia’ accolade in 2024.

With showrooms in Auckland, Christchurch, and Queenstown, and a vertically integrated model that allows for bespoke New Zealand-made furniture alongside global design brands, Trenzseater continues to deliver interiors of timeless, international calibre.

trenzseater.com

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Design

Evoke modern romance with Resene’s vintage-inspired palette

Design

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Evoke modern romance with Resene’s vintage-inspired palette

7 Nov 2025

Art direction — Amber Armitage/ Marigold
Photography — Melanie Jenkins/ Flash Studios

When it comes to refreshing our homes, colour is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to shift a space’s atmosphere — and this alluring palette proves it. Romantic without being saccharine, modern yet anchored in heritage, this rich base of muted plum and soft caramel weaves together tones that feel both nostalgic and fresh. These shades, when combined, create a grounding foundation of warmth and understated elegance.

Walls painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Vintage and floor finished in Resene Colorwood Dark Oak. Luca chair by Kelly Hoppen from Frobisher. Embrace the Moment II by Vicky Savage from Parnell Gallery. Flowers from Hands in The Dirt

Here, Resene Vintage takes centre stage, offering that dusty mauve-meets-plum note. Offset against Resene Coral in an adjoining room, the caramel undertone amplifies the purple’s subtle richness, bringing out the palette’s quietly dramatic character. Together, they strike a balance that’s indulgent without being overwhelming, ideal for living spaces that invite comfort while still feeling elevated.

To keep the look contemporary, lean into unexpected accents and artistic touches. For moments of bold punctuation, deep black provides the perfect grounding contrast, sharpening the softer tones with a sense of graphic definition. Texture, too, has its part to play. From polished metals and natural woods to plush soft furnishings, layered materials elevate the scheme with tactile interest.

Walls painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Coral. Ploum settee from Ligne Roset. Mineral rug from Designer Rugs. Draped Shed by Neil Driver from Parnell Gallery. On the Horizon by Vicky Savage from Parnell Gallery. Onyx side table by Kelly Hoppen from Frobisher

The key, however, lies in layering. Let bolder hues breathe across walls or upholstery, anchor the room with caramel or ochre elements, and introduce accent shades sparingly for emphasis. The result is a space that feels curated, characterful, and deeply personal.

More than a passing trend, this palette speaks to a wider shift in interiors where personality is favoured over austerity, made effortlessly achievable with Resene’s considered palette.

Colours to try

Modern Romance

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