From the proliferation of hot pink to the highly-anticipated blockbuster movie that is set to hit cinemas at the end of July, Barbie is having a serious moment, and it seems like everyone is getting into the spirit. In fact, the latest Barbie-related news to land on our desks has come in the form of a party, and not just any party mind you, SOUL PUNCH — the popular Sunday session that turns Soul Bar & Bistro into a convivial, colourful affair.
After a brief hiatus in which it was sorely missed, this upcoming SOUL PUNCH is promising a party to remember, which will see the Viaduct Harbour stalwart transformed into a bright, bold Barbie World, asking attendees to come dressed to the theme too.
Taking place on Sunday the 30th of July from 12pm until 6pm, SOUL PUNCH’s Barbie World will certainly be a party to remember. Tickets are $120 per person and will include a flute of Mumm Cordon Rosé on arrival, a delicious three-course set menu, tantalising tasters and rousing entertainment provided by a line-up of exceptional DJs including Tancredi, Katya, Not Lauren, Pascal and some other special guests who will cultivate the perfect sundowner vibe.
It’s time to brush away those winter blues and prepare to be tickled pink by the return of the ultimate Sunday session. Tickets can be booked here and given the fact that they have been known to sell out in hours for past events, we suggest securing yours now if you want to be part of the day. SOUL PUNCH is back, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate.
If you are one of the many preparing to descend on Queenstown for the upcoming winter season (and school holidays), ensure you are prepared for any kind of alpine adventure. Whether it’s a stylish ski suit, perfect for making an unmistakable mark on first tracks, or a chic knitwear set in which to cosy up when a day on the mountain is done, we have rounded up everything you need to pack for a successful winter getaway.
With unparalleled tourist offerings, from private heli-skiing to scenic fairways to mountainside lunches, Queenstown is a region designed to entertain and is waiting to be indulged in by its countryfolk.
Following on from our definitive guide on where to eat, we present a collection of activities, explorations and indulgences to add to your list in Queenstown, Arrowtown and its surrounding areas.
Hit The Slopes…
Soho Basin
Soho Basin A remote, invitation-only haven for snow sports and cat skiing, Soho Basin offers pristine, backcountry powder and clean, clear runs. To make a day at Soho really special, you can call on the kitchen at Amisfield, whose chefs will ascend to the exclusive ski field to whip up a multi-course lunch over an open fire, and serve it at the picturesque, European-style chalet right on the mountain.
Southern Lakes Heliski Offering a range of daily and private charter heliski experiences, Southern Lakes Heliski offers access to over 800 runs across 17 different mountain ranges. It offers more terrain and more vertical than any other operator in the area and can cater to skiers from intermediate to expert level. Ensuring a day spent with them is planned down to the last detail, Southern Lakes Heliski will pick its guests up, organise them into groups based on skill level, and send each off with its own experienced guide, to enjoy some of the most pristine runs they will have likely ever experienced. Lunch will be served surrounded by the arresting alpine scenery before a few afternoon runs finish the day off.
Play A Few Rounds At…
The Hills
Jack’s Point A major project that is seeing a new suburb materialise on the periphery of Queenstown, Jack’s Point is 10 minutes from the airport and 25 minutes from Arrowtown. It boasts nature trails, a central hub and its own 18-hole, par 72 golf course — set against the jaw-dropping backdrop of the Remarkables and recognised as one of the most spectacular in the world. Visitors don’t have to be members to book in for a few rounds, and it promises to delight avid golfers and amateurs alike.
The Hills Harking back to the golf club days of old, where gates were locked and invitations limited, The Hills offers a small number of non-member tee times each month, open to those willing to put forward the lofty green fee. From its wild backdrop to the way its course is home to an exquisite scattering of contemporary sculptures, The Hills is worth visiting for the Andrew Patterson-designed clubhouse alone.
Millbrook Resort Millbrook’s award-winning, 27-hole golf course has seen it universally touted as one of the most impressive in New Zealand. Set against a dramatic backdrop, the course already offers an unforgettable experience. But it’s about to get a whole lot better. Having purchased 67 hectares of land adjacent to the existing resort, Millbrook has been adding another nine holes to its offering, which will give the resort two, fully-operational 18-hole courses that can be played simultaneously. The extension is set to be grown-in and playable by the end of 2021.
Take The Family To…
Husky Sledding
Dorothy Browns This delightful boutique cinema and licensed bar is the ideal place to take the kids after a long day of activities. Fitted with rows of comfortable armchairs (offering plenty of room for lounging) and presenting a roster of acclaimed contemporary and arthouse films, the cinema is even available to be booked out privately — a great option for families or friends looking for something a little different to do.
Husky Sledding Immerse yourself in winter wilderness with Underdog’s husky sledding at Snow Farm, where you can traverse cross-country trails, pulled by a team of trained husky dogs. Suitable for children as young as 18 months, this is the perfect activity for the whole family.
iFly Guaranteed to be thrilling for the whole family, iFly offers an indoor, simulated skydiving experience. After being given a suit and a helmet, you’ll be directed into a wind tunnel where you’ll be suspended in mid-air, mimicking the feeling of the real thing. Open to children as young as five.
Remarkables Sweet Shop An icon of Arrowtown, the Remarkables Sweet Shop is a veritable heaven for kids and adults alike. And while its colourful shelves are packed with all sorts of treats, the line-up of the shop’s signature fudge in its front cabinet is the reason we keep returning again and again (and again).
Explore The Area With…
Alpine Helicopters
Alpine Helicopters Offering a raft of intrepid day-trips including heliskiing and guided hikes, as well as scenic flights over some of Central Otago’s most exquisite landscapes — including the Milford Sound, Fiordland, Dusky Sound and the Mt. Aspiring glaciers — Alpine Helicopters are the experts to turn to if you want to get out of Queenstown and immerse yourself in the surrounding areas.
Dart River Wilderness Jet Embark on a half-day adventure through Mt. Aspiring National Park with the Wilderness Jet. An exhilarating ride that will see you take in breathtaking scenery along glacial rivers, you’ll also learn about the Māori legends attached to the landscape, and be given the opportunity, when the boat moors up, to explore the ancient beech tree forests on foot.
Skyline Gondola
Skyline Gondola Appreciate Queenstown’s sweeping scenery from the 450-metre-high vantage point of the Skyline Gondola — the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere. Once you reach the top, enjoy a drink while taking in the spectacular, panoramic views.
Book A Trip To…
Dusky Sound
Minaret Station Set on a 50,000-acre high-country farm and only accessible by helicopter, Minaret Station is the secluded site of the Alpine Lodge from The Alpine Group, a place where guests are treated to off-the-grid luxury within the accommodation’s four, two-person chalets.
Dusky Sound Operated through Minaret Station, the Dusky Sound experience will start with a helicopter pick up from Queenstown or Wanaka. Guided by an experienced professional, guests will embark on a scenic flight to the astounding Dusky Sound (in the Milford Sound), landing on The Alpine Group’s purpose-built, floating helipad and transferring to their boat for a day of fishing, wildlife and exploring the beauty of the World Heritage Area. Because of limited accessibility, very few people visit Dusky Sound each year, making it a particularly pristine part of the region. Guests will enjoy a gourmet lunch on the boat before being flown home.
Mt Isthmus
The Lindis or Mt Isthmus The Lindis Group is redefining luxury accommodation in New Zealand. From its exceptional service to its world-class properties, which include The Lindis in South Canterbury’s Ahuriri Valley and Mt Isthmus in Lake Hāwea, The Lindis Group has made a swift and considerable impact in New Zealand’s tourism space, much of which can be attributed to its South Island presence. Operating from a place of honouring the land, capitalising on natural wonders and keeping its footprint to a minimum, the group’s properties are designed to blend seamlessly into their surroundings. Similarly, its hospitality promises to connect guests to the sense of calm quietude that can be garnered from a return to nature — think locally-sourced, seasonal food and wines, breathtaking alfresco activities like hikes, fishing and horseback riding and rooms that open out onto impossibly beautiful landscapes. This extends to the highly-personalised service offered to every guest, which prides itself on curated experiences that can be tailored to suit individual needs. While The Lindis is a luxurious, boutique accommodation at which guests can book rooms and enjoy a raft of amenities and exceptional dining, Mt. Isthmus is a sole-use villa nestled on a narrow strip of land between Lake Wanaka and Lake Hāwea, offering a more exclusive and personalised experience. Ultimately, the idea of luxury remains at the heart of everything The Lindis Group does, which has seen it become hugely popular with local and international tourists alike and well worth a few days out of Queenstown.
Relax At…
Onsen Hot Pools
The Spa at Millbrook Resort Take some time for yourself at Millbrook Resort’s indulgent spa. Awarded five years running as New Zealand’s Top Spa Resort by the World Travel Awards, Millbrook’s serene, replenishing space is the ultimate place to relax after a day on the slopes or looking after the family. There is also a complimentary shuttle service from Central Queenstown or Arrowtown.
Onsen Hot Pools While you’ve likely seen a raft of social media photos of people, framed by astonishing vistas, soaking in these pools, it’s not until you’ve experienced them for yourself that you’ll understand why they’ve become so popular. An hour’s soak in one of the purpose-made, mineral baths will deliver a raft of health benefits and the ultimate, blissful relaxation.
Retail Therapy…
Elle & Riley
While you’re in the area, why not peruse one of Queenstown region’s destination boutiques?
For an achingly-cool edit of European labels like Iro, Ganni and Anine Bing, visit Seletti Concept Store in Arrowtown and Queenstown.
Next level luxury-lovers would do well to ensure Louis Vuitton‘s Queenstown boutique is on the itinerary, as well as Partridge Jewellers for a sparkling souvenir — go on, you deserve it.
You’re going to wish you had more room in your suitcase for the breathtaking functional art and design pieces on display at Bonham Art + Design gallery space in Arrowtown — offering a selection of fine and functional art from celebrated practitioners as well as a curated line-up of collectable furniture which is destined as future heirlooms. Elsewhere, Elle & Riley‘s covetable cashmere will draw you into the brand’s beautiful Queenstown store, and see you not leave until you have a whole new series of cashmere to grace your winter wardrobe.
One of New Zealand’s most notable artists, Fiona Pardington, (of Māori — Ngāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe and Ngāti Kahungunu — and Scottish — Clan Cameron of Erracht — descent), has built a name globally for her photographic work that uses inventive formats and unpredictable techniques to explore a vast and varied array of themes, often swivelling around a preoccupation with emotion and affect.
Not only does Pardington have a Doctorate in Fine Arts from the University of Auckland, but she has been made a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, and was the first New Zealand artist to receive the Chevalier de l’Ordre Française des Arts et des Lettres (the Knight of the French Order of Arts and Letters by the people of France).
Demand for Pardington’s work has continued to grow exponentially over the last few years, with recent pieces sold to discerning collectors who recognise the pull of her oeuvre. In fact, one of Pardington’s pieces will be on display next week in Webbs’ highly-anticipated auction, Twenty— designed to shine a light on 20 artists (and 20 pieces) whose investment value continues to rise. Pardington’s entry is ‘Te Huia Kai-Manawa’ (silver gelatin print, 2008), a seminal work that speaks to the artist’s signature practice beautifully. With its value estimated in the realm of $20,000 to $30,000, this piece is Pardington at her most powerful, and is a precious opportunity for art enthusiasts to add something special to their collection.
Te Huia Kai-Manawa c2008, Silver Gelatin Print, 555 x 425mm
Her career is decorated with fellowships, residencies, awards and grants, and her pieces have appeared in a number of important exhibitions and biennials both here and around the world. But Pardington herself, who lives in Piha, finds happiness in the nuances of her daily life — unexpectedly humble for an artist whose body of work carries such renown.
Here, she delivers some pearls of wisdom from her experience, and gives insight into her notoriously private world.
Hermes Mercury, Cannelles and Parsonage Road, 2023, Inkjet print on Hahnemühle paper, framed in hand lacquered black Goldie moulding with AR70 non-reflective museum glass, Mural size 176 x 140 cm, Mid size 140 x 112 cm, Starkwhite
I inherited a withering work ethic from my mother. I’m stubborn. It’s very hard for me to break away from a task until its conceptual resolution is in gear and moving forward towards its physical completion. I also set a high standard for myself, which could, if you ask someone close to me, be seen as punishing and unnecessary — I don’t agree, of course.
There is no substitute for being rigorous and well researched. I can’t sleep at night otherwise. I have to do things my way. It’s tried and true.
I want to achieve my best, but I prefer not to spend time congratulating myself. I have an engulfing superstitious aversion to that. I just get on with it. I certainly don’t believe in resting on one’s laurels. The only person I’m in competition with is myself.
I realised I was able to be an artist after drawing swans with my mother at the kitchen table as a very small child. Bathing in her enthusiastic praise of my hard-won ‘mastery’ of swans over the next week or so, I experienced a certain Joycean claritas and chose this vocation for myself right then and there.
Magpie Tail (below), Hunter, 2022, Inkjet print on Hahnemühle paper, framed in hand lacquered black Goldie moulding with AR70 non-reflective museum glass, Starkwhite
An accurate explanation of my process would take hours to write and to read. Projects take anywhere from one-to-five years beginning to end. Some are in a holding pattern for decades. All I can say is that everything from conceiving to setting up a photograph to executing it to either hand printing or preparing and printing digitally, is a ritual.
A heightening of the senses, an immersion in them, is what I want people to derive from my work. And pleasure. A delight in the constellated effect and procession of concentrated perception. Also, a stronger feeling of their own being, engaged in what it is to experience art for and in themselves.
My accountant would describe me as crap at numbers but generous to a fault. My friends, as a stubborn, extremely private and passionate woman with an insatiable fascination for how humans think and function and for reflecting people back at themselves in a positive light.
When money is shared, there must be goodwill and good character involved. So there are a number of interlocking traits that I value in a business partner. Blunt honesty. A complimentary skillset — finding this is like panning for a diamond — considering the nuanced being each artist is. A person able to hold and maintain mutual respect. Kindness. Always wanting good for each other and each other’s families. Outrageously funny.
Left: Judgement, 2021. Right: The Sun, 2021. Both: Inkjet print on Hahnemühle paper, framed in hand lacquered black Goldie moulding with AR70 non-reflective museum glass, Mural size 176 x 140 cm, Mid size 140 x 112 cm, Starkwhite
Happiness is standing on my balcony at my home in Piha, where I can watch the sun drop below the horizon across the ocean. I can’t see the car parks that were sadly dug hard against the sand dunes a long time ago, only the sea and sky. There are throngs of piwakawaka and tui. I have a number of ancient pohutukawa on my land. I work from home, and I rise and sleep when I want. I have my health, I have my sight, my whānau and whanauka, I have a few life-long good friends and they are deep and abiding friendships. My memories of those who have passed that I love, ground my being. I know there are people who love my work and I thank them for that. I have a devoted lover, a sweet little dog and a great partnership with my gallery, Starkwhite. My house isn’t haunted. That’s quite enough.
There will be plenty of time to lack motivation when I take a dirt nap. Motivation is like a light within me that doesn’t wane, so it’s never been a source of concern. I can’t imagine what it is, to not want to make art. I’ll make art until I fall off my perch.
Portrait of Kimiakau Kiwi, 2023, Inkjet print on Hahnemühle paper, framed in hand lacquered black Goldie moulding with AR70 non-reflective museum glass, 140 x 176 cm, Ocula
I am like a dog with a bone when it comes to a visual conundrum. I have patience enough to develop a number of concepts over a number of years and know when the time is right (irons in the fire) to spring into action. I’ve learned to become comfortable with the concept that my unconscious mind uses the slingshot of desire to propel my creative notions into the real world. I enjoy feeling the pressure of it mounting, and the relief when it surfaces. It’s like remembering parts of a forgotten dream.
It’s important to have a sharp and creative accountant who will look out for you and your practice. That’s something I wish I had known from the beginning. And find an art dealer you can trust, who cares about your needs as much as he or she does their own.
Creating a signature perfume is something I want to do. I know exactly the historic material I will draw upon for conceptual inspiration and the raw materials from which I will make the fragrance. But I can’t quite ‘see’ the bottle yet… I’m close.
Fiona Pardington, TIKI: Orphans of Māoriland, 2019, Installation view, Starkwhite
As Samuel Beckett said in The Unnameable: .“You must go on. I can’t go on. I’ll go on.” As an artist you must be bloody-minded. Art is a vocation not aesthetic titillation or extended ego-stroking. A life-long commitment can become a profoundly eudaemonic discipline. The most constant and possibly the most intimate of companions, your practice will accompany you to your grave. You can’t take a lot else with you.
I wish I’d met Austin Osman Spare. An artist said by some to have anticipated Surrealism. He was remarkably talented in drawing and painting. He developed a practice of painting as a trance medium and pioneered the use of sentient sigils, emphasising the unconscious mind as being the font of all creative inspiration. I visited his grave at St. Mary’s Church in Ilford, in the deep winter, it drizzled miserably all day. The trains were down and the taxi out of London cost an arm and a leg.
I would like to be remembered for being kind, or at least making an honest attempt to be so. And for being an artist who did well for herself and did well by others, although you can’t please everybody. Living memories of someone die with the minds that cradle them within a couple of generations so I’ll leave the photographs to hold what remains of me. Everything passes. Dust to dust, etc. History is fiction.
Across international fashion, there has been one name whispered by those in the know as the designer to watch and covet: Jonathan Anderson. Since taking the reins at Loewe, this young visionary has turned this brand into one of the most sought-after and groundbreaking in the luxury fashion landscape, with his unique melding of surrealist, tromp-l’oeil detailing with robust structure and timeless silhouettes making each of his collections the most talked about on the fashion calendar. Lucky for us then, that Loewe’s incredible, Jonathan Anderson-designed pieces are available locally (and exclusively) at Faradays in Parnell, with the new SS23 pieces having just landed in store.
In buying this latest collection, Faradays’ Co-Founder and Creative Director Constance von Dadelszen was able to travel to Paris to experience the runway first hand. “Viewing and buying this new collection from Loewe was a pivotal moment,” says Constance. “There is something exceptionally special about having been able to see pieces on the runway and then up close in the Loewe showroom in Paris, and now today, seeing our selects hanging so beautiful at Faradays for those in New Zealand to enjoy.”
From ready-to-wear, comprising a series of sculptural and pixelated pieces, pannier dresses, exceptional denim, shirting and more, to Loewe’s signature handbags (including the new Bracelet Bag), shoes (including the new Toy Heel and Petal Sandal) and small leather goods, and of course the brand’s sought-after fragrances and candles, Faradays carries a vast, varied and carefully curated cross-section of Loewe, all of which is ready to be perused in-store. Shop our picks from Faradays’ Loewe line-up below.
No matter how busy life gets, there should be no excuse to skip a meal or sacrifice flavour to a schedule. After all, food is the fuel that keeps going through all the crazy demands of the working week. Recognising this, and offering a solution that is both simple, manageable and utterly delicious is Inca, where a new Rapido menu has just launched at both the Ponsonby and Newmarket restaurants, offering quick, flavoursome bites with a more elevated twist.
Here, from Monday to Sunday, until 6:30pm, hungry diners who want something that satisfies their cravings without taking up too much of their time, can pop into either of the Inca locations and for $55 per person, choose from dishes like guacamole and spicy tuna tostada to start, followed by mouthwatering jumbo tempura prawns or rio ceviche (served with Big Glory Bay salmon, fermented chilli and passionfruit), before moving onto dishes like wood-fired baby back pork ribs with honey ginger glaze, and ancho chilli soy glazed chicken thighs with pickled red onion and aji verde.
Designed to offer a happy median between a long, indulgent lunch or dinner out and a takeaway on-the-go, Inca’s Rapido menu offers an excuse to pause and enjoy our food without demanding too much of our time to do it. With vegetarian substitutions readily available and the option to add Veuve Clicquot Champagne to your meal for $20, this really is the perfect way to break up the busy work day.
The perception that hangs around the ‘aged-care’ trope is in dire need of re-examination. It is an outdated idea that those facilities dedicated to later living are tired or depressing, and is something that the clever minds at Winton — New Zealand’s largest publicly-listed development company — are challenging with their groundbreaking new project. Northbrook is a premium lifestyle development that provides sleek, sophisticated residences to those who appreciate good design and want to enjoy the best years of their lives in the lap of luxury, where every whim is catered to, and at the sort of level one might expect from a five-star hotel. And it’s changing our outlook on later living for good.
Northbrook Residents’ Harbour Views
Located in the heart of the bustling Wynyard Quarter precinct (which affords its residents both waterfront living and a private marina) as well as breathtaking views of Auckland’s sparkling Waitematā Harbour, Northbrook has been meticulously designed for comfort, convenience and ease of living, offering an unprecedented level of luxury. Here, Winton (backed by years of design expertise) has collaborated with internationally-renowned design studio Woods Bagot to bring to life a building of unparalleled architectural presence, alongside interiors that are as sumptuous as they are practical. Going beyond the principles of ‘universal design,’ Winton called on its collaborators to create spaces that would balance luxury with the specific, practical needs of its Northbrook demographic and in doing so, are promising the kind of lifestyle that can really only be described as living in a high-end hotel — so considered and convenient are all of the amenities.
Northbrook’s show apartment — now open and available for viewing
Inside, Northbrook will offer 154 exquisite, private dwellings with no stone left unturned in terms of high-quality finishes and beautiful interior detailing. Each residence will feel curated and contemporary, with material palettes built around timber flooring and joinery, undulating marble and natural-stone surfaces, a neutral colour palette, luminous brass fixtures and furniture that offers enveloping comfort while cultivating a distinctly cool vibe. Built on the idea that good design never ages, the overarching aesthetic at Northbrook marries classical style with a contemporary edge, resulting in an incredible later living concept, the like of which we have truly never seen before.
Northbrook’s show apartment — now open and available for viewing
The development will also offer its own hospitality precinct with exceptional, purpose-made, premium dining options. Here, residents will have access to a cafe pouring expertly-brewed coffee daily, a restaurant serving the best, locally-sourced seasonal fare, a bar, a private dining room and even a dedicated wine and whisky library, all able to be enjoyed alongside the raft of restaurants and bars on offer throughout the Wynyard Quarter precinct — situated within walking distance of Northbrook. That said, if going out isn’t on the agenda, Northbrook residents will also be able to access world-class meals from any of the development’s dining venues, via room service delivered directly to their doors.
Northbrook’s show apartment — now open and available for viewing
Also on site will be a fully-equipped wellness facility, which will include a yoga studio and gym, massage and physiotherapy services, a heated pool, a salon, a spa with a variety of treatments available and an infrared sauna. Catering to anyone seeking to put their health and wellbeing first, this offering simply adds to the holistic way in which Winton has considered every aspect of its luxury, later living lifestyle. Elsewhere, there will also be an art studio and gallery as well as a media room. Because while the residences are beautiful and the building unique, what Winton recognises is the need to support its Northbrook residents in every aspect of their post-retirement lives.
Of course, those drawn to the lifestyle at Northbrook will benefit hugely from the waterfront location, where residents have access to a private marina. Alongside the aforementioned bar-and-restaurant scene, Northbrook’s Wynyard Quarter affords its residents’ plenty of entertainment options at the likes of ASB Waterfront Theatre, as well as close proximity to the bustling Ponsonby, Britomart and CBD precincts, and the access to unique hospitality and retail this affords.
Northbrook’s show apartment — now open and available for viewing
Ultimately, Northbrook is set to be a haven for discerning individuals looking to continue to build on the lives they love. It is setting a new benchmark for later living and aged care that is grounded in exceptional, practical yet luxurious contemporary design, and offers the kind of waterfront lifestyle that honours the wonderfully rich, successful and fascinating lives of its residents.
With Northbrook Wynyard Quarter well underway, the team at Winton have further facilities in development for Hobsonville’s Launch Bay, Christchurch’s Avon Loop, Arrowtown and Wanaka, extending the reach nationwide for those seeking an exciting new chapter for their post-retirement lives. If you or someone you know is interested in understanding the groundbreaking standard of luxury later living offered at Northbrook, you can enquire here, or undertake a virtual tour below. Or even better, you can experience Northbrook’s exceptional offering in real life at its new show apartment — now open and available for viewings. Get in touch by emailing here, to book your walk-through now.
If what fashion’s cognoscenti have been carrying on the streets and catwalks of Paris is anything to go by, it’s time to size up our daily carryalls and experiment with proportions. From Loewe’s larger iteration of its iconic Flamenco clutch to Gucci’s spacious Aphrodite shoulder bag, it seems that ‘oversized’ is the order of the day.
When we first heard news of Fã Artisan Bake opening in Silverdale, we knew it had to be good to attract punters from the City. The driving force behind this destination is a duo passionate about their craft. With a decade of culinary experience under their belts, Pastry Chef Bonnie Xu and Barista Alexia Xia form a formidable team dedicated to delivering excellence in one of life’s most delicious rituals.
According to the duo, the origins of Fã can be traced back to the Cantonese term “fa min,” meaning “fermentation of dough” or “dough rising.” It embodies growth and flourishing; a sentiment echoed in the bakery’s philosophy and aspirations. Here the menu is a symphony of delicious offerings — tried-and-true favourites and some new, innovative takes on traditional baked goods. Xu tells me that in the short three weeks they have been open, crowd favourites already include the housemade brioche sandwich, overstuffed with a seasonal variety of fresh fillings, and the ham and cheese and almond croissants, where little explanation is needed. Although it’s hard to go wrong with any choice here.
Silverdale was a deliberate choice for Fã Artisan Bake’s home, driven by a deep admiration for the burgeoning community’s allure and untapped potential. The owners believe in contributing to the region’s evolution, infusing their artisan tendencies into baking and espresso to create a more enriching and fulfilling hospitality experience for locals. The space is somewhere one can easily spend their days, too, with a pared-back interior that feels so casually cool.
Looking ahead, Fã’s vision extends beyond the present moment. The bakery’s goal is to continually evolve, thrive, and make a lasting impact on the community. With a commitment to quality, creativity and community engagement, the owners hope to build a cherished institution. In this place, locals and those travelling from further afield can gather and treat themselves to something delicious when they do.
Opening Hours: Monday — Friday, 5am until 3pm Saturday & Sunday, 6am until 3pm
Fã Artisan Bake
1/4 Alberto Lane, Silverdale,
North Shore, Auckland
You might have seen celebrities tagging their ever-expanding list of red carpet teams on social media. And while hair, make-up and stylists are all predictable, less so are the raft of wellness treatments everyone seems to be tagging too. One attribution we keep seeing is ‘body by @detoxbyrebecca’. Rebecca Faria is a Brazilian lymphatic massage expert who has worked with the likes of Jennifer Aniston, Rosie Huntington-Whitely, Sofia Richie Grainge and Hailey Bieber, and has (over the last year or so) garnered a 4000-strong waiting list of celebrity clientele, with a reach that continues to grow. In a bid to understand this burgeoning fascination with lymphatic drainage through the lens of one of the best practitioners in the world right now, we sat down with Faria to understand how she obtained her impressive reach, what really matters when it comes to lymphatic drainage, and the most manageable steps to maintaining a youthful body.
Moving from Brazil to LA is a significant shift, especially in bringing your treatment to the market. Where did you train, and how did you get to where you are now? Lymphatic massage has been a part of my life since I was a child in Brazil (where it’s very popular), and I studied Aesthetics and Cosmetology in Brazil and Oriental Medicine in Australia. I also hold a Master’s Degree in Body Aesthetics. When I moved to Los Angeles, I saw an opportunity to introduce my skills to Hollywood’s high-profile clientele. But it was a challenging journey. I had to overcome cultural differences, language barriers and financial constraints. But my persistence paid off, and I gradually grew my clientele through word-of-mouth referrals. Today, I have my own spa in Beverly Hills, where I offer a unique treatment called Detox by Rebecca.
Left: Rebecca Faria with client Hailey Bieber Right: Red Light Therapy at Detox by Rebecca
I’d love to hear more about your wellbeing philosophy. What defines your approach? I believe in promoting overall health and wellness through natural means. Taking care of our bodies holistically is the key to achieving balance and harmony, both physically and mentally. It encompasses the mind, body and spirit. My approach to wellbeing focuses on empowering individuals to take control of their health. Lymphatic drainage massage is a natural and non-invasive way to support the body’s healing processes.
Why is supporting the lymphatic system so essential? It is crucial to your overall wellbeing. It regulates fluid balance, removes waste and toxins, and supports your immune system. Unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump to circulate lymph fluid throughout the body. Instead, it relies on the movement of muscles and joints to help move the fluid through the vessels. Lymphatic drainage massage can stimulate lymph fluid movement, reduce inflammation and swelling, and promote proper lymphatic system functioning.
What are some of the key aggravating factors for the lymphatic system? Depending on our lifestyle, we are exposing our bodies to these agents through:
• Processed foods, which are full of toxic substances • Sleep deprivation, which affects our immune system • Stressful relationships, which can raise our hormones to inflammatory levels • Lack of water intake, which will make you dehydrated • Lack of exercise, which will compromise your blood circulation
What diet and exercise regimes would you recommend to support lymphatic drainage and make the treatment’s effects last longer? Firstly, it is essential to maintain a healthy and balanced diet that is low in sodium and high in fibre. Consuming excessive amounts of sodium can lead to water retention and swelling. Eating a diet high in fibre can also help support a healthy bowel, essential for removing waste and excess fluid from the body. Drink at least 1.5 litres of water a day. In addition to helping the body function better, water is vital in helping the lymphatic system transport toxins and other substances out of the body. Foods with colouring, sugar, preservatives, chemicals and additives increase inflammation and disrupt the lymphatic system.
In terms of exercise, low-impact activities such as walking, cycling and swimming can improve lymphatic flow. These exercises help activate the legs’ muscles, which act as pumps to stimulate lymphatic circulation. Yoga and stretching can also help promote drainage by improving flexibility and posture, which can help to reduce fluid accumulation.
Rebecca Faria with client Sofia Richie Grainge
People often say their results are more related to getting rid of water weight. What causes water retention? One of the most common causes is consuming too much salt. Other possible causes of water retention include hormonal changes, certain medications and standing or sitting for long periods. Pregnancy and premenstrual syndrome can also cause water retention.
“Unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump to circulate lymph fluid throughout the body.”
What would you say to people who think the body should be able to undertake these processes without therapeutic support? I completely understand why someone might think their body can handle these processes independently. After all, our bodies are amazing and capable of so much. But the truth is, our modern lifestyles can put a lot of strain on our bodies, making it difficult for them to function optimally. Poor diets, lack of exercise, stress and other factors can all take a toll on our lymphatic system, leading to swelling, inflammation, and a host of other health issues. That’s where lymphatic drainage massage comes in. This therapy is like giving your body a helping hand to ensure it can function at its best.
Think of it like getting a tune-up for your car. Sure, your car might be able to run without maintenance, but it won’t be running as efficiently or smoothly as it could. By giving it the support it needs, you can help ensure it performs at its best. The same is true for our bodies.
What does your signature treatment actually consist of? My approach combines tailored manoeuvres of Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage with specialist equipment I have created to release toxins and target areas of congestion in the body. My machine exerts a negative pressure that breaks the fibres between the agglomeration of fat. As a result, it improves tissue oxygenation to 200 percent and reduces the aspect of the nodules that causes cellulite.
I also do cupping therapy, which works as a guide to know what part of the organism is overwhelmed with toxins or has any issues because once I place the cups on the clients’ backs, each region is interconnected with a specific organ. The cupping therapy provides necessary nutrients to the treated area. It promotes healing but also guides me on the lymphatic drainage treatment and the recommendations to the client.
What sets us apart is our personalised approach to each client’s needs. Everyone has different problems that can lead to swelling, inflammation and secondary health conditions. By identifying and treating the root issue, we can help clients achieve their wellness goals.
Treatment room at Detox by Rebecca
Can you target specific areas? Yes. For example, if a client is struggling with sagging skin on their face, I can use specific movements to help stimulate lymphatic flow and reduce inflammation in that area. Similarly, if a client is experiencing bloating or water retention in their stomach or legs, I can target those areas to help promote lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling.
However, it’s important to note that while targeted lymphatic drainage massage can effectively address specific concerns, working on the whole body during a session is also essential. The lymphatic system is interconnected and should be stimulated throughout the body to promote optimal lymphatic flow.
You have quite a celebrity clientele. What is it like working with such public figures? Having celebrity clients certainly helps my company thrive, and I am proud to work with well-known women such as Jennifer Aniston, the Kardashians, Hailey Bieber, Miley Cyrus and Ariana Grande. That said, I do not prioritise catering to them over others. I treat all my clients equally and always have.
I’ve seen you also work with people on photo shoots, movie sets, etc. How does this kind of work come about? How does it support your clients through this time? My goal is to provide a holistic approach to supporting individuals in the entertainment industry facing stressful and high-pressure environments. My treatments aim to help actors, singers and models perform at their highest level by reducing physical symptoms like swelling or puffiness, promoting wellbeing and improving mental clarity.
Rebecca Faria with her clients Left: Diddy (Sean Combs) Right: Chloë Grace Moretz
How often would you recommend people get treatments? What are some simple exercises or rituals they could undertake at home? The frequency of lymphatic drainage treatments depends on each individual’s needs and health conditions. More frequent treatments may be necessary for people with certain medical conditions or recovering from surgery. For people who want to get just the benefits of lymphatic massage, one to four times per month. As an at-home complement, there are several options:
• Morning routine (wake up early, scrape your tongue) • Drink plenty of water • Drink herbal tea daily • Avoid processed food • Have a good sleep routine
How do you think being in LA has impacted the success you’ve enjoyed so far? My success results from a combination of factors, including my dedication to my craft and ability to market my services effectively. However, being in Los Angeles has significantly impacted my success. LA is a hub for wellness and beauty, and there is a demand for innovative treatments and techniques. Additionally, LA’s diverse and open-minded culture has allowed me to introduce and popularise the Brazilian lymphatic massage technique. As people become more interested in natural and holistic approaches to wellness, they will seek practical and innovative treatments like lymphatic drainage massage. I have already seen increased interest in my technique from people outside LA. As more people learn about its benefits, it will continue to gain popularity and spread to other parts of the world.
What is next for Detox by Rebecca? Where do you go from here? I’m excited to share that I am launching a Digital Training Program for lymphatic drainage massage. I’m passionate about making this technique more accessible and spreading the word about the importance of self-care and overall wellness. We can create a global community of therapists and individuals who are committed to promoting health and wellbeing. My legacy will be one of empowering individuals to take control of their own health and wellbeing. By teaching my technique to others, I want to create a ripple effect that will spread throughout communities worldwide.
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