Commercial Bay has quietly become one of the city centre’s most reliable destinations for a well-timed treat, with a roster of sweet options that go well beyond the obvious. Here’s where to direct your afternoon cravings.
There’s a reason the queue at Gloria’s never quite disappears. The cookies, baked fresh daily in flavours that range from burnt butter dark chocolate to caramelised white chocolate macadamia and triple choc, arrive warm, soft in the centre, and dangerously easy to finish before you’ve reached the escalator. Sharing is technically an option, though not one we would recommend.
Bluebell’s cupcake of the month is a Biscoff affair, and a persuasive one at that. A vegan chocolate base comes filled with Biscoff spread, topped with a cream cheese icing that leans heavily into that distinctive caramelised spice, and finished with a biscuit crunch and a shard of dark chocolate. Plant-based, yes. Restrained, absolutely not.
Doe Donuts has made a name for itself by turning familiar desserts into doughnut form, and doing it with real finesse. The current roster includes a crème brûlée number with torched sugar shell and vanilla crème pâtisserie, alongside an Oreo cream edition that leans into everything you want from that combination. Each one is handcrafted, generously filled, and gone far too quickly.
What started at a Christchurch farmers market over 14 years ago has become one of New Zealand’s most reliable macaron destinations, and their Commercial Bay outpost brings a genuine taste of Parisian pâtisserie to the waterfront. The classics hold their own (Salted Butter Caramel and Bitter Chocolate are as good as you’d hope), but it’s the seasonal creations that keep regulars coming back: think Feijoa Custard Crumble and Sticky Date Pudding. The hazelnut, espresso and milk chocolate cookie is also well worth your attention.
The mini doughnuts at Burger Burger deserve more attention than a side-order billing suggests. Warm, soft, dusted in cinnamon sugar, and served alongside salted caramel sauce and whipped cream for dipping, they’re the kind of sweet afterthought that quietly becomes the highlight of the meal.
For those who prefer their sweetness with a little less theatre, Best Ugly delivers. Raspberry jam and cream cheese layered into a freshly baked bagel, simple, satisfying, and the sort of thing that proves you don’t need a pastry case to qualify as a proper treat.
If you’ve never had a fried Oreo, this is your moment. Good Dog Bad Dog takes the biscuit, batters it, and fries it until the outside is golden and crisp while the centre goes soft and molten with chocolate. It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t require justification, just commitment.
For something on the lighter, brighter end of the spectrum, Mokki deals in ceremonial-grade matcha and organic soft serve açaí bowls packed with antioxidants. The classic matcha latte is a study in calm energy, while the strawberry matcha, made with real fruit puree, leans into something more vibrant. For those after a genuine treat, the Matchamisu Latte is worth the detour. Nourishing, refreshing, and a welcome counterpoint to everything else on this list.
Hopewood, by Madeleine Blanchfield Architects, an 11th-floor Darling Point apartment, was built as a blank canvas for a duo of reasons. Firstly, the renovation was completed with the intention of selling, so the future inhabitant was unknown. Secondly, the north-facing space possesses some of the finest views in Sydney, with 270-degree vistas stretching panoramically from the Sydney Harbour Bridge across to North Head and around to Rose Bay.
The space, two apartments that had been merged by a prior owner, comprised a series of small, jumbled rooms. The early stages of the project revealed that the only structural necessity was the building’s concrete exoskeleton, which laid the foundation for a full opening of the space, removing the interior walls that blocked the expansive view, and creating an open-air space that flows seamlessly from kitchen to living and dining, and takes full advantage of the vista beyond. The balcony was integrated with the space to design a room that blurs the lines between indoor and out. At the same time, the use of delicately reflective Scarpa travertine mosaic tiles from Surface Gallery on the floor evokes a sense of floating inside the horizon.
“Removing the interior walls that blocked the expansive view, and creating an open-air space takes full advantage of the vista beyond.”
Fixed elements of the design, like the apartment’s entry space and central steel column, are given as much creativity and attention, with the former being anchored in Breccia Pernice marble to mindfully centre guests as they enter the space and the latter being expanded with integrated storage to create the perfect wall for a statement piece of art.
Given the requirement for on-sale appeal, the focus for the interiors was to create a home that felt cosy and warm, while still allowing the future purchasers the freedom to make it their own. The solution was found in earthy hues and natural materials such as travertine, timber and rich marble that, in line with the incredible views, brought the outside in. Curved lines and soft materials were a focus for the furnishings, such as the cantilevered MR10 chair by Thonet and the leather Le Mura sofa by Tacchini, which help to bring a relaxed, lived-in, yet high-end air to each room.
“The focus for the interiors was to create a home that felt cosy and warm… the solution was found in earthy hues and natural materials.”
Marble architraves are used on the entryways to forge a sense of continuity as you move through the instinctively designed floor plan. Each space has its own merits, from the custom Navona travertine bath, to the American oak joinery in the walk-in wardrobe, while still centring around the apartment’s north star; its defining view.
Achieving an effortlessly elegant yet practical wardrobe is not as simple as it seems, especially when the season calls for navigating crisp mornings, mild afternoons, and cooler evenings all in a single day. Autumnal dressing is an art of balance: staying warm without sacrificing style, and looking polished without overthinking every outfit. The key lies in building a curated selection of timeless, mix-and-match pieces that work harder so you don’t have to.
Originally from the Slovakian town of Nové Zámky, Peter Zahradnik grew up immersed in the rhythms of hospitality. His father, a chef and restaurateur, ensured his earliest memories of the trade involved washing glasses and tackling the thankless jobs few others wanted. It was a practical apprenticeship that quietly forged both resilience and a healthy respect for the machinery of a busy restaurant.
Seven years ago, Zahradnik moved to New Zealand, bringing with him a distinctly European sensibility for service. Today, he runs the bar at the always busy waterfront hotspot in Westhaven Marina, where the drinks flow as steadily as the boats drift in and out of the harbour. The bar attracts a lively mix of sailors fresh off the water, neighbourhood regulars and city workers chasing the restorative power of Zahradnik’s expertly crafted cocktails.
Working alongside hospitality veteran Judith Tabron has sharpened both Zahradnik’s technical precision and his appreciation for the theatre that makes a great bar hum. His expertise in steering a fast-paced service while ensuring the atmosphere remains relaxed, convivial and always fun, is part of what makes First Mates, Last Laugh one of Auckland’s most beloved eateries.
After Hours — Peter Zahradnik
Bar Manager, First Mates, Last Laugh
“When I finally get the chance to eat out, one of the first places that comes to mind is Pocha. After a late shift, you’ll often find chefs and hospitality staff from nearby restaurants there as well, which gives it a great after-hours energy. The Korean fried chicken is hard to beat.
I also really appreciate restaurants where the setting becomes part of the experience. Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant is one that always stands out. Sitting there with a glass of wine, looking out over the gulf, is special. I’ve had similar experiences at Amisfield Restaurantand Craggy Range Restaurant. The food is excellent, but it’s the way the landscape frames the meal that really stays with you.
Closer to home, Hello Beastyis somewhere I keep going back to. The atmosphere is always lively, the food consistently delivers, and the service is spot on. It’s simply a fun place to spend an evening.”
Auckland’s sandwich scene has quietly become one of the most compelling reasons to eat lunch in this city. From house-cured pastrami on New York rye to katsu sandos on pillowy milk bread, the craft, the bread and the fillings have never been better — and the competition between makers has never been fiercer. Here’s where to find the sandwiches worth crossing town for.
It would be remiss not to make mention of Gloria’s, the Commercial Bay-based deli that hasn’t stopped humming since opening. Of course, we should expect such popularity from the clever team behind the scenes. Gloria’s is a more pared-back offering that keeps homely, delicious foods at its core — and its crown jewel is a delightful daily rotation of fresh, seasonal sandwiches. The deli meats sandwich here is unparalleled if you can get your hands on one, and the tuna iteration may just be the best in town.
This neighbourhood gem, with outposts in both Point Chevalier and Mount Albert, is best known for its crispy baguettes and buttery rolls that are packed to the brim with tasty fillings. Little French Cafe favourites include the sirloin steak baguette, which includes perfectly cooked sirloin steak from Grey Lynn Butchers, caramelised onions, rocket and a house-made black pepper sauce nestled in the generous roll. Other variations include the ultimate breakfast bap with free-range eggs, organic bacon and house-made basil aioli and the chicken baguette with delicious free-range smoked chicken and bacon with avocado and slow-roasted capsicum.
The focaccia at Mother is baked in-house, salted correctly, and built with real restraint. The mortadella with provolone, pistachio butter and olive is the one to order: a deceptively beige proposition that delivers far more than it promises, with the pistachio butter adding a mellow, nutty richness that lifts the whole affair. Behind it all is the pedigree of Petra Galler of Butter Butter fame, and it shows.
No one can dispute The Fed’s ability to turn out a damn good sandwich. The SkyCity institution’s chicken salad sandwich has reached cult status — for both its consistency and its undeniable deliciousness. Composed of a magical chicken-mayo mixture, crunchy iceberg lettuce and crispy bits of chicken skin for good measure, this sandwich famously comes with gravy on the side for dipping. Available from lunch until late, this sandwich is here to satisfy cravings at all hours.
No one does deli-style decadence quite like Beau Deli. Tucked away in Three Lamps, this local favourite has built a loyal following — and for good reason. Their Reuben is a standout: rich, messy, and unapologetically satisfying. Not to be outshone, the roast pumpkin and haloumi number on pillowy, fresh-baked focaccia is also a triumph. Whatever your taste or proclivity, Beau delivers deli classics with serious flavour.
A patty melt lives or dies by the sear, and the one at Darling on Drake has clearly made its peace with the grill. The smashed dry-aged version arrives with a crust that audibly cracks under the knife, layered with slices of mortadella that add a salty, fatty richness you didn’t know you needed, a house burger sauce pulling the whole thing together, and fries alongside that feel less like a side and more like a co-conspirator. It’s been a crowd favourite since the venue opened, and for good reason, this is the kind of sandwich that turns a casual rooftop drink into a full commitment. Perched on the edge of Victoria Park with Auckland’s largest outdoor terrace and a dining room dressed in crimson and cream, it’s also one of the better-looking places in the city to eat one.
Knead on Benson may be known for its flaky pastries and stellar coffee, but their sandwiches deserve a spotlight of their own. The chicken iteration is a fail-safe, pairing roast chicken tossed in a creamy, herby mayo, with crisp cos lettuce and a touch of pickle tang, between slices of their signature fresh-baked sourdough. It’s simple, yes — but executed with the kind of care that makes you come back for it again (and again).
Daily Bread’s sourdough reputation precedes it, with a number of locations around town keeping fans of its loaves, pastries and pies well supplied. The sandwiches are in equally high demand — fresh baguettes, hot milk bun sandwiches, sourdough toasties and ciabatta options all feature. While offerings differ at each site, you’ll often find egg, pickle and chive baguettes, ham with cheese and mustard, and sourdough rounds with chicken and mayo or spiced roast beef with chimichurri. The beef brisket newcomer, slow-cooked and piled generously, is worth a trip alone.
Made using this Grey Lynn bakery’s famous, freshly-made loaves, the sandwiches and toasties at Florets are tasty and wholesome. Here, you’ll find fillings like danbo and housemade green apple relish, or pickled egg with organic greens, or even fennel salami with whipped cannellini bean, giardiniera, and parsley. These are made even better when enjoyed in Floret’s sun-filled upstairs room with a perfectly-made coffee and one (or two) of the housemade cookies.
While they may look uncomplicated, one bite of the delectable sandwiches from the Allpress Caffetteria on Drake Street will quickly teach you not to judge a book by its cover. Some of the fillings change on a daily basis but the tuna, egg and mayo, along with the Reuben, are the staples we’ve come to rely on at lunchtime. The fillings in the vegetarian sandwiches change seasonally, but when you see the pumpkin with pecorino cheese and walnut, don’t think twice before ordering.
Tucked alongside the popular all-day restaurant, Amano Bakery has long been one of downtown Auckland’s most reliable lunch stops. The sandwich rolls — baked in-house on long-fermented dough — are the foundation, and the fillings do them justice. The meatball and mozzarella roll is a perennial favourite, rich and satisfying without being heavy, while the fennel and salsa verde sandwich offers a lighter, sharper alternative. The bakery also turns out seasonal specials that rotate with the produce, so repeat visits are rewarded. Grab one with an espresso and take it to the waterfront.
At Oji Sushi, you’ll find a distinctly Japanese take on classic sandos, where an array of tasty fillings are nestled between two slices of soft, fluffy milk bread called shokupan. The sando offering includes Japanese egg with spring onion and aji Amarillo and katsu chicken with shredded iceberg and bulldog sauce. Conveniently found in the heart of Commercial Bay, this is a solid option for those seeking a workday lunch with a different register.
Edie’s may be a wine bar first and foremost, but believe us when we say they also turn out a damn good sammie come lunchtime. The chicken baguette has fast-become one of our go-tos, made with fresh roast chicken and tucked into a warm, house-made baguette. It’s the kind of simple, perfectly executed bite that makes you realise just how good a simple sando can be.
What started as an Ellerslie cult favourite in 2017 now has a permanent home in Ponsonby Central, and the sandwiches haven’t lost a thing in transit. Inspired by the bustling delis of New York City, Pastrami & Rye proudly cures and smokes all of its own meats and churns out homemade preserves and pickles. It’s tough to pick just one from the line-up, but the Cuban (pork, ham, pickles, mustard and melty cheese, hot off the griddle) is a hard one to beat. The Roast Beef French Dip and the namesake Pastrami on Rye are equally compelling, and the Ellerslie food truck still runs Friday to Sunday for those on the other side of town.
The folks at Fort Greene make some of the best loaves in town, so it’s no surprise they’re also responsible for some of the city’s most impressive sandwiches. Its recognisable Karangahape Road storefront (painted a pleasing shade of green) is the ideal place to settle in for a lunchtime sandwich and grab a loaf of sourdough to go. While The Fish One sandwich has become something of an icon, boasting homemade kahawai fish fingers, mushy peas and tartare sauce, our other favourites are The Reuben, with salt-beef brisket, homemade sauerkraut, Russian dressing, mustard, pickles & Swiss cheese on Fort Greene New York rye and the Kimchi Grilled Cheese, boasting a mix of four cheeses, grilled, with homemade kimchi on Fort Greene’s delicious sourdough.
Fitzroy Deli has quietly mastered the art of the sandwich since arriving on Shortland Street in early 2025. Everything is baked on-site daily (the rolls, the buns, the bread) and each sandwich is made to order. The chicken schnitty on a freshly baked roll, with its golden crumb and sharp pickled accompaniments, has already earned a loyal lunchtime queue. The beef brisket with vintage cheddar and pickled zucchini is equally compelling, and the mortadella with basil pesto and pistachios nods to the Italian deli tradition without copying it. A concise menu, no filler, just well-made sandwiches from people who clearly care about bread.
Adjacent to their stalwart game-focused restaurant, Cazador Deli is essentially a raid on the restaurant’s pantry in sandwich form. The house-cured charcuterie that defines the dining room finds its way between bread here: think venison salami, wild pork rillettes, and duck liver pâté alongside house-made pickles and condiments. The fillings rotate with what the kitchen is producing, so no two visits are identical. When you spot a game meat toastie on the counter, order it without hesitation. Cazador’s understanding of cured and wild meats is unmatched in Auckland.
It would be remiss of us to leave out the CBD deli slinging Italian classics. Deli di Bossi’s Mortadella Sandwich will have your mouth watering, made with mortadella italiana and mozzarella in freshly baked bread, toasted to crispy perfection. There are countless authentic iterations that keep people coming through the doors. The Pastrami, a simple but stunning mix of pastrami, pickles, provolone, and mustard, is a perfect rendition of the classic, while, for the vegetarians amongst us, the Fungo (mushroom and mozzarella) is a flavourful standout.
We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again: Hello Beasty is one of the most exciting fusion eateries in the city, consistently serving up Korean, Japanese, and Chinese-inspired cuisine with something for everyone. And there’s one dish that we can’t go past ordering on every visit, the Katsu Sando. Here, crumbed chicken thigh is paired with shredded white cabbage, kewpie mayo, golden curry sauce, and toasted white bread, culminating in one of the best sandos in town.
Having only opened its doors last July, Bodega has fast-become one of the city’s most-loved sandwich purveyors, slinging New York deli-inspired, made-to-order sandwiches with a decidedly American slant. As far as flavours go, the vodka chicken is a favourite, with chicken cutlets, vodka sauce, mozzarella, and green sauce, served in a freshly-baked roll. Sublime.
Cheese on Toast’s menu is a love letter to the toastie, and a convincing argument that simplicity and craft are not mutually exclusive. Every sandwich starts with housemade sourdough and a signature blend of vintage gouda, maasdam and parmesan, then the fillings do the rest. The caramelised bacon jam is the cult favourite, sweet with onion and salty with pops of bacon through melted cheese. The truffle mushroom is rich and earthy, and the rotating specials (a Sichuan pork belly, a spicy meatball) give regulars a reason to keep coming back. The Birkenhead outpost is the North Shore’s best argument for crossing town for a toastie, though the Three Kings original and the Newmarket location will save you the bridge.
Young George has built one of the most devoted followings of any sandwich spot in Auckland, and the queue at its unassuming Mount Albert shopfront tells you everything. The chicken sando (crispy, juicy crumbed chicken with tonkatsu sauce and a house special sauce on soft Japanese milk bread) is the signature, and it’s earned its reputation. There are vegetarian options that hold their own, and the coffee is well above average for a sando shop. It’s a short menu done with real conviction.
Farro’s Commercial Bay outpost brings its market-quality produce instincts to the sandwich counter. The brisket and pickle melt (slow-cooked beef brisket with sharp pickles and melted cheese on grilled bread) is the standout, with the kind of depth you’d expect from a kitchen that takes its ingredients seriously. The grilled vegetable option, layered with seasonal produce and a bright, herbaceous dressing, is a worthy alternative. These are sandwiches that taste like someone with good taste made them for you, which is more or less the point.
Herne Bay Foodstore has long been a local institution, and the sandwiches are a large part of why. The classic ham and cheese on crusty bread, layered with free-range ham, aged cheddar, house-made relish and fresh greens, is the kind of sandwich that reminds you the simple ones are often the best. Seasonal specials rotate through, but the core line-up of deli meats, quality cheeses and fresh-baked breads remains reassuringly consistent. A neighbourhood staple that earns its reputation through repetition, not reinvention.
Your sleep position affects far more than your comfort. According to researchers at Harvard Medical School, Johns Hopkins, and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the way you lie down each night can influence everything from spinal alignment and back pain to skin ageing, post-surgical recovery, and even breathing quality. Yet most of us give it no thought at all.
The conversation around sleep optimisation has shifted. Where the focus was once squarely on duration (eight hours, no excuses), the science increasingly points to sleep quality, sleep posture, and the environment you create around both. Here’s what the research says about each position, and what you can do to make yours work harder for you.
Back sleeping: the gold standard for alignment
Sleeping on your back is widely regarded by physiotherapists and spinal specialists as one of the best positions for overall physical health.
It promotes spinal alignment and can reduce back pain
When you sleep on your back, your body weight is distributed evenly and your spine can settle into a neutral position. According to Johns Hopkins sleep neurologist Dr Rachel Salas, this allows muscles, ligaments, and discs to decompress and recover from the day’s load. For people with lower back pain, back sleeping on a supportive surface can provide meaningful relief. A pillow that supports the natural curve of the neck without pushing the head forward is key.
It supports recovery from injury and surgery
Back sleeping is particularly helpful following upper body injuries or surgical procedures (such as eye or breast surgery), keeping weight and pressure off the affected areas. The challenge is staying in position through the night. Ergonomic pillows with contoured edges or concave head cradles can help maintain position and prevent unconscious rolling.
It may help slow visible signs of ageing
Dermatologists and sleep researchers agree: sleeping face down or on your side compresses the skin against the pillow for hours at a time, which over years can contribute to the formation of fine lines on the face and chest. Dr Salas of Johns Hopkins confirms that back sleeping can help reduce these “sleep wrinkles,” while also keeping the face off the pillowcase, which may reduce breakouts. It’s not a miracle solution, but it’s a variable entirely within your control.
It helps you breathe more freely (with a caveat)
According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, back sleeping with proper pillow support keeps the airway unobstructed, allowing easier breathing. The caveat: for people with obstructive sleep apnoea, back sleeping can worsen symptoms, as gravity may cause the tongue to fall toward the back of the throat. If snoring or sleep apnoea is a concern, consult a sleep specialist before making the switch.
Side sleeping: the most popular position for good reason
More than 60 per cent of adults sleep on their side, according to the Sleep Foundation, and the position carries its own set of advantages. Side sleeping is considered optimal for keeping the airway open, which can reduce snoring and alleviate mild sleep apnoea. It’s also the recommended position during pregnancy, particularly on the left side, which improves blood circulation to the uterus.
There are trade-offs, however. Side sleeping can place pressure on the shoulder and hip, and without proper pillow height (matching the distance between your neck and shoulder), it can force the spine out of alignment. A pillow between the knees can help keep the hips, pelvis, and lower back aligned.
Stomach sleeping: the position most experts caution against
Only around 10 per cent of people sleep on their stomach, and most sleep specialists advise against it. The prone position provides the least back support, increases pressure on the spine, and requires turning the head to one side, which can strain the neck. If you find yourself gravitating to stomach sleeping, it may be worth experimenting with a gradual transition to side or back sleeping, using pillows to support the change.
The pillow question
Whatever your position, pillow choice matters more than most people realise. A pillow that’s too high or too flat can undo the benefits of even the best sleeping posture. For back sleepers, a pillow that cradles the head without pushing it forward keeps the cervical spine neutral. For side sleepers, a firmer, higher-loft pillow fills the gap between the ear and the shoulder.
New Zealand-designed Hyoumankind has built its range specifically around this science. Founded by Stephanie Wyborn after years of research into sleep posture, the brand’s ergonomic memory foam pillows use a concave head cradle and contoured front edge to support spinal alignment and gently discourage overnight rolling. The range now includes the Sleep Pillow for nightly use, the compact Go Pillow for travel and lumbar support, a Knee Pillow for lower body relief, and a Maternity Pillow for pregnancy support. All are made in New Zealand and come with a 30-night risk-free trial.
Dr John Ferguson, an orthopaedic spinal surgeon, and George Duncan, former All Blacks muscle therapist, are among the health professionals who have endorsed the range. Duncan describes it as “another wise tool to help reduce pain and increase recovery.”
The bottom line
The evidence is clear: sleep position is a meaningful lever for physical health, recovery, and even appearance. The right position for you depends on your body, your health concerns, and your comfort. But if you’ve been sleeping the same way your whole life without questioning it, the research suggests it’s worth a second look. And if you’re going to make the switch, investing in a pillow that actually supports the position you’re aiming for is the simplest place to start.
A new year calls for new adventures. These unforgettable voyages redefine luxury, sustainability, and cultural immersion. From gliding along the serene rivers of France’s Champagne region to sailing through Indonesia’s turquoise waters, these journeys offer the perfect balance of comfort, exclusivity, and environmental consciousness.
Sailing the Indonesian Archipelago
Glide through the turquoise waters of the Indonesian archipelago aboard a meticulously restored Phinisi boat, reimagined as a floating sanctuary of elegance and comfort. Amandira by Aman offers an exclusive voyage, immersing guests in breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse marine life — all in unparalleled style.
Amandira
Designed for just 10 guests, Amandira ensures an intimate and luxurious experience. Each cabin is exquisitely appointed with plush furnishings, ensuite bathrooms, and private balconies offering sweeping ocean views.
“Curated excursions unveil Indonesia’s hidden treasures — ancient temples, bustling markets, and crystal-clear waters…”
Master Cabin
Dining is a highlight, with an onboard chef crafting gourmet meals from the freshest local ingredients, complemented by an exceptional selection of wines and handcrafted cocktails.
Beyond indulgence, curated excursions unveil Indonesia’s hidden treasures — ancient temples, bustling markets, and crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs.
Amandira’s commitment to sustainability sets it apart, incorporating renewable energy and responsible practices to preserve Indonesia’s natural beauty.
Set sail on a voyage where adventure meets luxury, and every moment invites you to immerse yourself in Indonesia’s timeless allure.
Step Aboard a Floating Villa through the Heart of Champagne
Glide through the serene waterways of France’s Champagne region aboard Coquelicot Belmond, a meticulously restored barge reimagined as a floating haven of elegance and comfort. This exclusive voyage offers an intimate escape, immersing guests in rolling vineyards, historic châteaux, and the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Coquelicot Belmond
Designed for just six guests, Coquelicot Belmond ensures privacy and sophistication, with exquisitely appointed cabins featuring plush furnishings, marble bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing the picturesque landscape.
Cabin interior
Culinary excellence defines the journey, with an onboard chef crafting exquisite meals using the finest local ingredients, perfectly paired with exceptional Champagnes and wines from the region.
Exterior Deck
Left: Champagne bar. Right Outdoor Dining
Beyond the indulgent dining, curated excursions unveil Champagne’s hidden gems—medieval villages, historic estates, and private tastings at renowned maisons.
“This exclusive voyage offers an intimate escape, immersing guests in rolling vineyards, historic châteaux, and the region’s rich cultural heritage.”
What sets Coquelicot Belmond apart is its commitment to sustainability, operating with minimal environmental impact through renewable energy and responsible practices that preserve the region’s natural beauty.
Drifting across the serene waters of Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, Guntû is more than a luxury floating ryokan — it is a gateway to Japan’s most timeless traditions. Onboard, guests are invited to immerse themselves in cultural rituals that cultivate mindfulness, harmony, and a deep appreciation for heritage, all without stepping ashore.
The Terrace
Each day unfolds like a carefully curated ritual, beginning with guided meditation on deck. Rooted in Zen Buddhist principles, these morning sessions set a tranquil tone, with the soft sea breeze and rhythmic waves providing the perfect backdrop for quiet reflection.
“As the sun sets, the haunting melodies of the shakuhachi, a traditional bamboo flute, drift through the air, deepening the boat’s meditative ambience.”
Meditation Deck
As the day progresses, a traditional tea ceremony transforms the preparation of matcha into an artful meditation. Every movement, from the gentle whisking of the tea to the mindful sipping, embodies a philosophy of balance and respect — an invitation to slow down and savour the present moment.
Afternoons offer the chance to explore ikebana, the intricate art of Japanese flower arranging. Under the guidance of a skilled instructor, guests discover the principles of asymmetry, harmony, and seasonal awareness that define this craft. As the sun sets, the haunting melodies of the shakuhachi, a traditional bamboo flute, drift through the air, deepening the boat’s meditative ambience.
Terrace Suite
Evenings on Guntû bring a sense of community, with exquisite kaiseki-style dining prepared using the freshest seasonal ingredients. These intimate meals are often accompanied by live performances of classical Japanese music or storytelling, offering a window into the country’s artistic traditions. Before retiring to elegantly designed cabins, guests can take part in a calligraphy workshop, tracing each brushstroke with mindful precision — another way to embrace Japan’s philosophy of beauty in simplicity.
Guntû
A journey aboard Guntû is more than just an escape — it is a passage into Japan’s cultural soul. By weaving centuries-old traditions into daily life on the water, the voyage becomes a seamless blend of tranquillity, heritage, and refined luxury.
Behind Federal Street’s red doors, Huami does yum cha differently. Those translucent har kao arrive with truffle. The squid ink prawn dumplings hit hard. And hanging proudly on display? Some of Auckland’s best Peking duck, the glossy birds giving the promise of what’s to come.
This is yum cha that brings the whole family together, from your dumpling-obsessed nephew to your dim sum purist grandmother. The trolleys still roll, the jasmine tea flows, and everything is refined just enough to remind you why weekend traditions matter.
The Peking duck arrives with paper-thin pancakes and all the proper accompaniments: crispy skin, soft duck meat that pulls apart with ease. Order it alongside the xiao long bao (soup intact, as it should be) and a round of show-stopping squid ink dumplings that take things visually and tastefully to another level.
Gather friends, or the extended family, and be sure to book a big round table. Weekends like this are made for yum cha. And Huami’s offering is familiar yet with enough finesse to elevate your experience.
There comes a point when family holidays stop being logistical exercises in survival and start becoming something rather more meaningful. The years of rolling your eyes at your parents’ enthusiasm for organised fun recede quickly once you are negotiating the dietary whims, screen addictions and general mutiny of your own children. Suddenly, those once mortifying elders look less like social liabilities and more like saints with time on their hands and a knack for diffusing tantrums.
It is in this recalibration that the multigenerational holiday finds its stride. Not a forced march through Europe with colour-coded itineraries, nor a frenetic theme park sprint, but something softer. Space to gather. Space to retreat. Space for grandparents to feel useful, parents to feel supported, and children to feel utterly adored. Three tiers of the same family cake, each afforded both proximity and privacy.
For New Zealanders, Fiji is the obvious answer, thanks to a mere three hours in the air, and no time difference to unravel sleep cycles at either end of the age spectrum. A climate that flatters everyone. And, crucially, resorts that understand that travelling as a tribe requires both scale and subtlety.
What elevates Fiji for multigenerational travel goes beyond the obvious white sand and warm water. Villas are large enough to house the whole dynasty without anyone drawing up emotional battle lines. Staff who instinctively engage children while respectfully tending to grandparents. Activities that range from snorkelling over coral gardens to spa rituals and sunset cocktails, without anyone feeling dragged along for the ride.
If scale is your love language, Kokomo speaks it fluently. Set amid the Kadavu Islands and encircled by the Great Astrolabe Reef, the residences here are expansive enough to swallow an entire family tree. Five-bedroom homes with private infinity pools, multiple living areas and dedicated butlers shift the dynamic from crowded to convivial.
Kokomo Dravuni Grand Residence
The presence of nannies and an attentive island team is not indulgent. It is transformative. Children are absorbed into marine adventures and cultural activities, grandparents are guided through reef explorations at their own pace, and parents are briefly relieved of the title of Chief Organiser. The all-inclusive structure removes awkward bill splitting, which is perhaps the greatest gift of all.
Vomo excels at beachfront togetherness with breathing room. Its private residences, including the four-bedroom Residence and the five-bedroom Reef House, are designed for proper family occupation rather than polite cohabitation. Expect long living zones, private pools and butler service that smooths out the edges of group travel.
Vomo Island Reef House
Bedrooms are generously separated, which in multigenerational terms is as important as the ocean view. Children can spill sand across decks, grandparents can claim a quiet corner with a book, and parents can host long, lazy lunches without worrying about the washing up. It feels polished without being precious, a rare combination when you are travelling with people who still argue about board games.
On Malolo Island, Six Senses brings its signature wellness focus to the family format. Villas and residences range up to six bedrooms, each with a private pool, kitchen, and a Guest Experience Maker who quietly orchestrates the stay.
Six Senses Four Bedroom Beachfront Pool Residence
Here, multigenerational travel meets modern restoration. Grandparents gravitate towards yoga and spa rituals, parents balance surf sessions with long lunches, and children disappear into kids’ club or supervised snorkelling. The newly introduced residences, set slightly apart with private beach access, offer an added layer of discretion for milestone gatherings or simply families who prefer their celebrations without an audience.
Six Senses Fiji
In the end, Fiji works because it understands something essential. Togetherness requires space. Generosity of spirit is easier under a palm tree. And when the day ends with three generations watching the same sunset, arguing lightly over who makes the best margarita, you realise this is less about a holiday and more about continuity.
Besides, if tensions do flare, the ocean is warm, the villas are vast, and there is always tomorrow to pretend you are all perfectly harmonious.
To mark twenty years of the Parehuia Artist Residency, McCahon House is holding a nationwide Art Union raffle with a prize that’s suitably worthy. Hard Epic (2021), is a large-scale acrylic and oil on canvas by Judy Millar, one of New Zealand’s most internationally recognised painters. A Venice Biennale exhibitor, monumental abstractionist, and the very first artist to live and work at Parehuia (McCahon House) when the programme launched two decades ago, Millar has donated the painting to ensure the residency that helped shape her career can continue to support other artists. Hard Epic was painted in 2021, during the COVID lockdowns, when the intensity of West Auckland sunsets and the strange collective stillness of that period found their way onto her canvas. It is a large work (2100 × 1500mm, acrylic and oil on canvas) and a significant one. To own an original Judy Millar is to own a piece of New Zealand art history by an artist whose works remain highly coveted.
Judy Millar, Hard Epic, 2021 Acrylic and oil on canvas 2100 × 1500 × 35 mm
In support of McCahon House, this year they have revived the Art Union, an old Aotearoa tradition in which a work of art was offered as a prize. Simply buy a ticket, support the next generation of artists, and you might also win an exceptional painting from one of our country’s most celebrated artists. As Millar says, “I’m now in a position to give back and help support other artists. I want to see other artists be given similar chances.”
The Parehuia residency sits beside Colin McCahon’s former home in Titirangi and has quietly supported painters, sculptors, installation artists and research-led practitioners for twenty years. Many previous residents of the McCahon House have gone on to have acclaimed national and international careers. It is the kind of programme that shapes our cultural landscape.
With only 1,000 tickets available for $100, and all proceeds going directly to the residency, this is your chance to own a Judy Millar, and the feel proud that you have contributed to keeping something creative and unique alive in New Zealand. The winning ticket will be drawn at the Aotearoa Art Fair on Sunday, 3rd May at the McCahon House booth.
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