Those seeking a local watering hole in Mt Eden needn’t look further than a new Dominion Road address. The latest addition to the iconic strip comes in the form of a welcoming gastropub, taking over a venue that holds a rich history.
Many of you will be familiar with The Dominion. It was a classic pub, often a pit stop for those eagerly heading to (or heading home from) Eden Park. After The Dominion closed its doors for good, Sean Lee found himself driving past the empty place for months, eventually deciding to (with business partner Andy Barnett) breathe new life into the iconic site.
Right: Lamb ribs with allium paste and coriander.
Reimagined, this space is striking, and just what Dominion Road needs. Offering an elevated bar and bistro experience, this feels like a first for Mount Eden, in what is set to surely be a popular spot for locals.
Lee set his sights on offering a curated take on food and drink, alongside a cocktail menu that covers all the bases. Joined by Head Chef Ezra Wisaksono (ex Amano), the dining experience is comforting but inspired. We think the take on carbonara is worth raving about, but there’s also a prime rib dirty burger if you’re feeling that way inclined. Like much of The Bridgman, this menu is a new take on the traditional pub, and it’s one that has been welcomed with open arms.
From left: Dirty Burger, Black Cherry Sour and Pineapple express cocktails.
“Our style is a much fresher take on the traditional gastropub,” Lee tells me. “It was our intention to elevate it somewhat — bringing familiar flavours and dishes with a new twist.”
Where the menu doesn’t limit itself is the liquor, of course. After all, there’s little to be desired in a bar without booze. Showcasing some of our favourite tap beers — hello Peroni — and bottles to boot, punters should find something to quench their thirst. Those craving something a little more sophisticated can lean into the cocktails, with the margarita being a personal favourite.
“We wanted to make a nice neighbourhood spot where everyone could come for a drink,” shares Lee. “We like to think we offer a bit of everything. It’s a great place where people can come for a really good cocktail, a drink and a really nice meal.”
Left: Spaghetti with pork hock butter and stracciatella.
The space itself is inviting. Designed with care but not pretentiously so; with elements that play on the building’s rich history (like the oversized chandeliers) and those that offer a more modern take (like fairy lights adorning the outdoor terrace). Lee calls it ‘art deco grunge’, and we have to agree.
It’s not every day that Mount Eden is treated to a new venue worth discovering, and we’re predicting this one will eventually reach stalwart status.
Opening hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 12pm until late Closed Monday & Tuesday
They say change is as good as a holiday, but with travel to far-flung corners of the world still a little precarious, we’ve set our sights on Australia, where these stunning destinations promise to satiate our appetite for travel further afield.
Swap the Galápagos Islands for Lord Howe Island A surprising fact is that Lord Howe Island is a 7-million-year-old volcano. When you think that the oldest island in Galápagos is 3.5 million years old, the ancient archipelago closer to home seems all the more intriguing. It’s beautiful by boat and exploring the main island is like finding another world — with wildlife flourishing around the majestic Mount Gower.
Where to stay: This is a World Heritage-listed island, and the Capella Lodge is a world-class resort with spectacular views. If you’re looking for your own spot, The Bowker Beach House by the lagoon is luxury.
Swap Mexico’s Las Coloradas for Lake Hillier While the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico is famous for its La Coloradas pink lakes, what many don’t know is that Southern Australia is home to some of the most spectacular blush waters we’ve ever laid eyes on. From Lake Hillier on Middle Island off the south-west coast, to Lake MacDonnell on the Eyre Peninsula, Lake Bumbunga, Lake Hart and Lake Eyre, these iconic natural wonders are otherworldly and unforgettable. Lake Hillier and Lake MacDonnell are arguably the best-known; while it’s not possible to land on Middle Island, regular scenic flight services will ensure you have the most spectacular aerial views of Lake Hillier, and Lake MacDonnell can be visited on the mainland.
Where to stay: If you’ve based yourself in Adelaide and are up for a nine-hour drive to Lake MacDonnell, Sequoia Lodge is a luxurious getaway in the Adelaide Hills. Otherwise, Camel Beach House is a private, standalone hideaway two-hours drive away. For Lake Hillier, base yourself in Esperance, where you’ll find pared-back yet comfortable accommodation at Esperance Chalet Village.
Swap Tulum’s Cenotes for Mount Gambier’s Sunken Gardens Mexico’s ancient cenotes were formed with the collapse of limestone, and were often frequented by the Maya peoples who used them as a groundwater supply. On South Australia’s limestone coast, you will find the Umpherston Sinkhole at Mount Gambier. Also known as The Sunken Garden, it is a lush spot for a picnic. For avid divers, the Kilsby Sinkhole and Hell’s Hole offer unique diving in their deep blue water.
Where to stay: The sites are a four-or-so-hour drive from Adelaide or Melbourne. If staying overnight, we suggest a nearby winery, such as the Villa among the vines at Highbank.
Swap Africa’s Victoria Falls for the Horizontal Waterfalls The work of some of the world’s largest tidal movements, the Horizontal Waterfalls in the Kimberley region are as beautiful as they are invigorating. Found at both Talbot Bay and in the Buccaneer Archipelago, you can view the falls on a scenic flight or thrilling boat ride, which depart from Broome. Described by David Attenborough as “Australia’s most unusual natural wonder”, they’re something you must see to believe.
Where to stay: Broome boasts several resorts, but if you are after something more at-one with nature, the nearby Eco Beach Resort offers idyllic villas and glamping spots.
Natural rug atelier Nodi evokes a unique energy with its latest release, rendered in a contrasting palette of vibrant and earthy hues. Expressive yet minimalist, the Bamboo Silk Blend in Stripe is available now and builds on the enduringly favoured Bamboo Silk Blend range.
With each of the four available renditions featuring a contrasting border that runs along the edge, the new designs reflect an uptick in popularity for pops of mood-enhancing colour in the home, says Nodi founder Olivia Moon.
“We’re seeing a lot more people looking to bring joy into their homes through bursts of colour. It’s more than a decorative decision, it’s a way to enhance emotions and lift the spirit.”
Pewter and Marigold Stripe; Moss and Fog Grey Stripe.
Handwoven on traditional wooden looms, Bamboo Silk and New Zealand Wool are cleverly combined to create a subtle contrast between the two fibres. The texture adds interest and the unique blend results in a luxuriously soft feeling underfoot.
The new Stripe styles are available in colour combinations of Moss and Fog Grey Stripe, Marigold and Fog Grey Stripe, Bordeaux and Chalk Stripe, and Pewter and Marigold Stripe.
Even if the rest of your home furnishings are naturally neutral, a richly-hued floor covering will ground the space beautifully, making just enough of a statement while seamlessly harmonising with even the most minimal aesthetic.
If you struggle to find the time to sit down and read, or your brain is more receptive to information via narration, then audiobooks are a great way to plough through some virtual pages. From engrossing autobiographies to informative cultural explorations, these are the best new audiobooks to open your ears to.
Putting the Rabbit in the Hatby Brian Cox While nowadays he’s instantly recognisable as Logan Roy in Succession, Brian Cox has had a career stuffed with memorable appearances, from Braveheart to Rushmore to The Bourne Identity. Originally from Dundee, the actor’s highly-anticipated memoir is a shining example of his prowess as a storyteller and is an emotive account of his challenging upbringing, plus excellent tales from throughout his career. It’s especially engrossing when read by Cox himself in his gentle Scottish lilt.
The Nineties by Chuck Klosterman From the best-selling author and cultural critic comes a comprehensive examination of a decade that we can’t stop referencing, whether we’re aware of it or not. A great listen for the contemporary history buff.
Metaverse Investing: The New Beginners Guide to NFTs, Crypto Art, Digital Assets and Blockchain Gamingby James Wallace We’re all about the metaverse — well, learning about it anyway, and this helpful book explains all you need to know for a foundation in all-things meta. As the title suggests, it covers buzzy yet sometimes hard to decipher concepts like NFTs, Cryptocurrencies, virtual reality and more, all narrated by ‘Helpful Matthew’ who has narrated a lot of other guide-type audiobooks on Audible and makes for a digestible listen.
This Is Going to Hurt: Secret Diaries of a Young Doctorby Adam Kay A two-and-a-half-million-copy international bestseller, This Is Going to Hurt was published in 2019 but the audiobook is brand new this year — and it’s well worth a listen, narrated by the author himself as he takes us through “97-hour weeks, life-and-death decisions, a constant tsunami of bodily fluids, earning less than the hospital parking meter”… and so much more.
Dilla Timeby Dan Charnas While he never had a pop hit himself, the late James DeWitt Yancey — a.k.a J Dilla — was hugely influential for musicians like Michael Jackson. This immersive audiobook (complete with musical interludes) is equal parts “biography, musicology and cultural history”, compiling the legacy of an underrated genius.
Tenement Kidby Bobby Gillespie Written and narrated by musician Bobby Gillespie, of Primal Scream and The Jesus and Mary Chain fame, this is a colourful and nostalgic account of a legendary time in British music history, and in rock ‘n’ roll.
Really, no meal is complete without a perfectly paired wine. Not often considered carefully enough, a fine wine can work to highlight a dish like nothing else — bringing forth flavours and accentuating the food’s finer points. It’s something we all need to be more aware of.
Taking this idea and building on it is Park Hyatt’s restaurant Onemata — home to an impressive collection of limited-edition wines (one of the most extensive lists in the country, in fact). Wanting to hero these delicious drops, the restaurant will play host to a series of wine dinners that put fine wine first, with Onemata’s expert sommelier Suraj GC showcasing the intricacies of different wines alongside the clever producers who make them. From renowned Champagne to brand new wine, these three, exclusive ticked events are each on for one night only, and offer the perfect opportunity for those passionate about food and wine to meet the experts, taste new and rare varieties and enjoy the finest hospitality Onemata has to offer.
Special accommodation packages will also be available for these events, providing the ultimate Park Hyatt Auckland experience — whether that is respite for out-of-town gourmands, or simply a luxurious winter staycation.
A Long Lunch with Billecart-Salmon and Chatham Island Food Co New Zealand is a country that prides itself on fine seafood, and the delights found in the outermost reaches of the Chatham Islands are nothing short of divine. This five-course dining experience has been designed around Chatham Island Food Co’s locally-caught seafood, which is expertly paired with the most coveted Champagnes from Billecart-Salmon.
A Long Lunch with Billecart-Salmon and Chatham Island Food Co will take place on Saturday, May 14. Tickets for the lunch are $250 per person.
A Celebration of Craftsmanship with Hans Herzog Marlborough’s Hans Herzog Winery sits at the pinnacle of creativity and innovation in wines, while still paying homage to the traditional craft. To celebrate the introduction of the new noble grape variety to New Zealand, Onemata has partnered with the winery in this exclusive and sure-to-sell-out event. What makes the variety so coveted (besides an appealing flavour) is the rare blue colouring. Diners will start the evening with a welcome drink at Waka, Park Hyatt’s rooftop bar, before indulging in a four-course dinner at Onemata.
A Celebration of Craftsmanship with Hans Herzog will take place on Thursday, June 16. Tickets for the exclusive event are $300 per person.
Battle of the Vines: A French Takeover at Onemata It is often thought that the best results come from collision, collaboration and competition. In a competitive night of compare and contrast between Clos Henry Winery Marlborough and Domaine Thompson Winery Central Otago, guests will enjoy both New Zealand and French varietals alongside a four-course meal prepared by Onemata head chef Rob Hope-Ede.
Battle of the Vines will take place on Thursday, July 7, and tickets are available for $175 per person.
In my family, we have always harboured the firm belief that every day is Mother’s Day — something reinforced by my mother’s own hand (and the close proximity of her birthday). But as an advocate for celebration and all things extravagant, this is the one day a year where I like to show my mum a little extra gratitude. Whether it’s by way of lunch together, a package of treats or a meaningful gift she’ll remember, this year I’m taking the opportunity to honour her in any way I can.
Off the back of a busy roster of long weekends, there’s something for everyone to discover this Mother’s Day, from afternoon teas to indulgent spa treatments. After all, there’s never a better time to make sure Mum knows how much you love her.
The Living Room at Park Hyatt, Spring Spa.
Park Hyatt Mother’s Day Lunch & Afternoon Teas If there’s a team that knows how to celebrate Mother’s Day right, it’s the hospitality maestros at the Park Hyatt. This year they’re delivering an offering that’s nothing short of magnificent. The Living Room will play host to a hard-to-beat afternoon tea, specially tailored for the mothers in our lives. With a specially-conceived five-course menu, complimentary glass of Billecart-Salmon Brut, live music from Allenby Park and a gift from Kingdom Candles, this is the ultimate celebration.
If you’re looking for more of a dining experience, a Mother’s Day lunch at Onemata may hit the spot instead. Head Chef Rob Hope-Ede and Executive Pastry Chef Callum Liddicoat have created three beautiful courses to mark the occasion.
For bookings and enquiries, contact 09 366 2500 or email [email protected].
Mother’s Day Spa Treatment Sometimes it’s nice to eschew a day of activities and simply unwind with Mum in a calm, laid-back setting. A mani-pedi is one way to do just that. With the addition of Spring Ponsonby’s Margaret Dabbs Supreme Pedicure, you and your mum can spend some quality downtime together, while soaking up the joys of self-care. That said, if your mum is seeking som much-needed alone time, perhaps a gift voucher for any of East Day Spa’s signature Mother’s Day treatment packages is a thoughtful touch.
Lilypad Free Concert — with The Veils, Bic Runga, Nadia Reid & Arahi Paying homage to festivals of the past, Lilypad is the newest live music experience to land in Auckland. With a delightful daytime lineup and all proceeds from tickets going to charity, it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a musical experience with the woman you love the most. The Veils, Bic Runga, Nadia Reid and Arahi have all come together for the first of many concerts set in the space, and there’s no better way to set the stage than Mother’s Day.
Attendees are invited to register for their free Lilypad ticket via Moshtix (to a maximum of 6 tickets per person), by donating to the music charity MusicHelps here.
Ebisu, Bracu Estate.
Ebisu Mother’s Day Dinner Crowd-favourite restaurant Ebisu is offering a fresh take on Mother’s Day dinners this year. Offering the same contemporary Japanese fare the restaurant is renowned for, all mums will receive a complimentary flute of Veuve Clicquot Rosé to add an effervescent touch. For an occasion like Mother’s Day, we recommend opting for the best of the best with Ebisu’s signature tasting menu — a multi-course degustation experience that offers authentic Japanese cuisine with a distinctly New Zealand influence.
Nigiri & Champagne Sundays at Faraday’s Bar Faraday’s Bar has put a maternal spin on the divine Sundays that they have become quickly known for. Japanese for ‘trust the chef;, enjoy an indulgent selection of omakase by chef Anthony Price, with a glass of champaign and a decadent sweet delight from Atelier Shu — the perfect afternoon for mothers who love luxury.
Bookings are essential with limited seats available, here.
Mothers Day Sip & Paint at Bracu Estate For those who fancy something a touch more creative this Mother’s Day, Bracu Estate’s Sip & Paint will be a welcome addition to the agenda. This gorgeous estate on the edge of the Auckland border, will offer a day filled with platters, wine and painting with Studio Vino. At the end of the day, you’ll get to take home your painting as a special memory to cherish.
Tickets are available to purchase for both morning and afternoon sessions, here.
Butter Baby, Mudbrick.
Butter Baby’s Mother’s Day Choux Puff Box Butter Baby’s famed delights include more than cookies and cinny buns. This year, the choux puff box is being touted as a token of appreciation for mothers everywhere, and it’s something we are wholeheartedly on board with. These boxes offer three delightful flavours and nine puffs in total, with a cute gift card to share nine reasons why you love your mum. The sweetest part about the gifts isn’t the taste however, it’s that it’s available all month — meaning whenever you’re able to celebrate, you’ll have a sweet gift to mark the occasion.
Mother’s Day Choux Puff boxes can be ordered online here.
Helitranz Mudbrick Experience If you’re seeking a Mother’s Day experience to rival the siblings, this is the ultimate in exploration. Helitranz’s Mudbrick Experience offers a true taste of Waiheke for mum. Including a stunning solo helicopter flight over Rangitoto, Motutapu and Motuihe Islands, it’s the only way to travel to lunch at Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant. On arrival, you’ll be treated to a glass of Mudbrick Bubbles, with a divine three-course a la carte lunch to follow.
Bookings should be made directly through Helitranz.
Mother’s Day Lunch at Soul Bar & Bistro There’s no place to celebrate an occasion quite like the seaside stalwart, Soul Bar & Bistro. The team there knows this too — and has put its ever-wonderful touch on this year’s Mother’s Day. Serving a specially curated menu and an aptly fitting glass of Mumm on arrival, the three-course menu (with one for kids too) will swiftly earn you the favourite child title.
Bookings can be made through the Soul Bar & Bistro website — ensure you add Mother’s Day Lunch to your booking.
Gathering around an open fire with friends or family is a time-honoured winter tradition, and this iteration of the classic fire pit is allowing us to bring that warm, inviting ambiance to any outdoor setting.
The Flames fire pit by Philippi is a sturdy fire bowl that is both aesthetically elegant and simple to use. Satisfyingly weighty and available in two different sizes, the sturdy legs and straight-forward set-up make it about as versatile a fire pit as you’ll ever find, while the powder-coated steel well allows plenty of space for a roaring fire. Beyond its mood-setting value, the Flames fire pit can also be used as a grill thanks to a small hole in the base that provides air supply.
The gap between seasons of your favourite series can seem to yawn — until you discover another great show to watch, that is. There is something to be said about returning to the same beloved (or not-so-beloved) characters time and time again, and these new seasons of some of the most acclaimed series pick up where they left off — inviting the viewer to do the same.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4t-XP1Xrh0
The Righteous Gemstones Everyone’s favourite televangelist family is back for another round of this hit Danny McBride-created comedy. Season two sees the money-obsessed Gemstone clan continue to find “blessed” ways to amass their fortunes — but, this time, outsiders threaten to destroy everything they’ve worked so hard for. An excellent cast (led by John Goodman as the Gemstone patriarch) and constant laughs make this an unmissable watch.
Stranger Things Season four of the exquisitely bingeable, supernatural-teen-mystery show is due to start in May, and its many fans are eagerly awaiting its return. Will, Eleven, Mike, Dustin and the rest of the gang are once again entangled with the Upside Down, thanks to a hauntingly empty house that seems to have been the scene of horrible things.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t72Pbqrkb28
Atlanta After a four year hiatus, Donald Glover’s award-winning, eccentric, semi-surreal series returns for its third season. This time, its stars — Glover along with recurring favourites Lakeith Stanfield and Zazie Beetz — are heading to Europe. Quintessentially unpredictable events ensue, as their characters Earn, Alfred, and Van navigate their new unfamiliar surroundings.
Top Boy The fan-favourite British drama, often described as similar to The Wire, takes us back to the housing estates of East London for its fourth season. Against the backdrop of gang tension and drug deals, its titular characters navigate alliances and rivalries, while trying to retain the reputation and title of “Top Boy”.
White might be known for its purist notions, but the new way to wear it, as temperatures cool, is with a sense of carefree creativity. Whether you pick-up a white leather handbag from the likes of Chanel or Christian Dior, or go for a white shirt and blazer from Workshop or Dadelszen, find confidence in a mix of slouchy and tailored silhouettes.
White? For winter? It might be unexpected but trust us when we tell you that this particular shade will (when done right) command attention in the best way.
Clockwise from top left: CARO BELT from Dior, ISABEL MARANT ÉTOILE BELVIRA FLARE JEAN from Workshop, Helena Double Breasted Jacket from dadelszen, Small top handle bag from Gucci, CAGOLE 50MM SANDALfrom Balenciaga, helen cherryKwan Blouse from Workshop.
From left: Alexandre Vauthier Spring 22, Derek Lam 10 Crosby Aaliyah shirt jacket from Muse Boutique.
Clockwise from top left: 22 bag in white from Chanel, Metal hair clips from Prada, ALAÏA tube skirt from Faradays, givenchy sneakers from Faradays, LOOSE COLLAR SATIN SPENCER JACKET from Louis Vuitton, the Garment boston sleeve shirt from Workshop.
Why hang one piece of art, when you can combine plenty? A collage of collectibles communicates your sense of style much more than a single showpiece. Look for complementary tones and themes to amplify your artistic side — currently, we’re coveting deep ochre and ink in figurative strokes. To complete the masterclass, frame each piece with a corresponding colour from the artwork beside it.
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