Seeking to expand its unique offering, popular Ponsonby restaurant Khu Khu has opened a brand new space in Milford, bringing its flavoursome style of vegan Thai food to the North Shore.
The original Khu Khu, on Ponsonby Road, was born from the experiences of Owner Michael Khuwattanasenee, who was inspired to open a vegan restaurant after undertaking a 30-Day Challenge. Over that time, he had struggled to find plant-based options when dining out, particularly at Asian eateries, given their proclivity for meat and for subtle animal-based ingredients like fish and oyster sauces. Khuwattanasenee, who is Thai, decided to take matters into his own hands. He assembled a team of Thai chefs who share his dietary values and together, they developed innovative, plant-based food that remains true to Thai flavours, made with only fresh, vegan ingredients. Unsurprisingly, it was quickly popular, and now, Khuwattanasenee has opened the doors to a second outpost that is set to charm Milford locals in the same way.
The menu at the new spot still adheres to Khuwattanasenee’s ‘quality over quantity’ mantra, and heroes a number of mouthwatering Thai dishes, from small spring rolls made with kumara glass noodles and a sweet carrot sauce to Thai curries, a delicious Pad Thai made with tempeh, and even a mind-blowing vegan ‘duck’ Drunken Noodles (that really has to be tasted to be believed).
While most of these dishes can also be found at the Ponsonby restaurant, there are newcomers on the menu at Milford, too. A Massaman Curry with tender vegan ‘beef’ chunks sits alongside a zesty Thai Beef Salad with lemongrass ‘beef’ chunks and fresh red onion and cucumber. Also, on the dessert menu, a moreish Pandan Cheesecake is set to satiate any sweet tooth, comprising a salty and sweet coconut-vanilla cake with a butter-cookie base and a caramel sauce, alongside a new Raspberry Panna Cotta, where a coconut-based panna cotta is topped with fresh berry and cookie crumb.
The Khu Khu Milford space is intimate and elegant, with a simple palette and contemporary fixtures. It is modern, and welcoming and speaks to the forward-looking, inclusive philosophy of its owner. So, whether you’ve already dined at (and loved) Khu Khu Ponsonby or are simply a Milford local, looking to try something new, Khu Khu’s new outpost is now open and taking bookings. From its flavourful food that offers something completely different to its great, laid-back vibe, this new spot is a must-try in our books.
Opening Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday — 5pm until 9pm Friday & Saturday, 5pm until 10pm
Paired with a line-up of looks from the newest collections, a selection of exquisite Van Cleef & Arpels jewels is the hero of our Winter Issue fashion editorial. Making an elegant statement for the season ahead, these pieces serve as a reminder of the power of jewellery to elevate any kind of look, and of its timeless appeal. From Van Cleef & Arpels’ Frivole designs to its jaw-dropping Palmyre necklace to its iconic Alhambra, this shoot is a celebration of the exquisite pieces that have long made Van Cleef & Arpels such an iconic Maison.
Britomart, the nine-block precinct that straddles the space between downtown and the waterfront, is one of Auckland’s most enviable dining areas. Tempting us with a formidable range of eateries, you can be certain you’ll scratch any culinary itch with its range of coffee shops, lunch spots, tasty bakeries, bustling brasseries, fine dining establishments, and cool bars. From breakfast bites to sophisticated cocktails (and just about everything in-between) here is where you should be eating and drinking in Britomart.
Morning & Daytime
The Store
The Store A longstanding favourite of the Britomart crowd, The Store boasts a two-fold offering that has made it as much a go-to for quick takeaway options as it is for longer, more leisurely lunches. The Takeaway side offers coffee, juices, smoothies, sandwiches, soups, salads and more for those seeking an easy, transportable meal; while The Diner side allows punters to enjoy an al fresco meal in a sun-drenched courtyard, with a casual, European-inspired menu that is fresh and flavoursome.
Daily Bread
Daily Bread Now with a number of locations around Auckland, Daily Bread has cultivated a reputation for delivering some of the tastiest baked treats this city has to offer — think expertly-made loaves of sourdough, satiating sandwiches, flaky croissants and more — and its centrally-located Britomart bakery (which forms phase one of the bakery’s exciting evolution) is the perfect place for a morning cuppa and a quick bite.
La Petite Fourchette Bringing a taste of France to Britomart, this cute spot boasts an all-day breakfast menu where brunch dishes are given a delightfully French twist. (Think daily omelettes, Pain Perdu Brioché — a decadent French toast — and Galette de Pomme Terre — potato and herb hash served with a choice of avocado, bacon or salmon.) La Petite Fourchette also offers a range of delicious patisserie and savoury treats to-go.
Yeah Bowl
Yeah Bowl If it’s an easy, healthy lunch you’re after, look no further than the Britomart chapter of Yeah Bowl. Serving a range of poke bowls made with fresh, organic ingredients and free-range meats, this colourful, simple stop-in is on a mission to reimagine the idea of traditional ‘fast food.’
Better Burger Sometimes, a good old-fashioned burger and shake is just what you feel like, and this Britomart spot delivers every time. With a simple menu that covers the traditional cheeseburger, a chicken burger, a mushroom burger and fries (all able to be made ‘epic’ with a mix of mustard, cheese, onion and ‘secret sauce’) alongside free-range fried chicken and shakes that are some of the best we’ve ever had, Better Burger is perfect if you’re in the mood for something a little naughty for your lunch.
Oji Sushi
Oji Sushi Beloved by the lunchtime crowd for its fresh sushi, satiating bowls and tasty sandos and dumplings, Oji is a downtown favourite, with outposts in Commercial Bay and Britomart. Having set itself apart from Auckland’s other sushi spots for its focus on locally-sourced ingredients, sustainable practices and a straightforward, no-fuss approach, Oji is the perfect place to pop into for an easy, healthy and downright delicious lunch, particularly for those who work in the city.
Day to Night
Amano
Amano Undoubtedly one of Auckland’s most popular eateries, Amano is open from early in the morning, when it serves elevated à la carte breakfast (and a selection of breakfast cocktails to boot), until well into the afternoon and evening, when it is consistently humming with hungry punters. For lunch and dinner, Amano offers a delicious Italian-inspired menu that highlights seasonal, local produce (the pasta dishes are a particular highlight) and transforms from a light-filled eatery into an elegant restaurant. Attached to Amano’s expansive dining room is its dedicated bakery, where coffee, freshly-pressed juices, pastries, sandwiches, salads and more are made on-site and available for anyone seeking a simple takeaway.
Ortolana With a name that means ‘market gardener’ in Italian, it’s hardly surprising that Ortolana has built its reputation on serving delicious, Italian-inspired fare that showcases seasonal produce from local growers. Open from early in the morning until late into the night, this intimate, cosy spot is suitable for any situation — with a range of tasty breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Recently, we’ve been loving the smashed eggs with chive and prosciutto piadina and the blue cheese gnudi with mushroom, truffle and pangrattato — but expect menu items to change according to seasonal availability.
Alma
Alma Heroing Andalusian flavours in its menu that marries Spanish culinary ideas with fresh New Zealand ingredients, Alma is a one of the tastiest places to post up for a delectable lunch or to book into for an intimate dinner. Serving small, tapas-style plates designed to share, this eatery has become one of our favourites for its unique food, relaxed atmosphere and impressive wine and gin list. (Pro tip: the Tomato Martini is a showstopper.)
The Brit Perfect for a casual lunch with friends or an after-work drink, The Brit is Britomart’s answer to the classic gastropub, serving a raft of elevated pub fare and satiating share dishes. With a laid-back vibe that ramps up with screenings of rugby games and live music events, The Brit is not only an ideal place to gather with mates but is also great for dropping into with the little ones in tow.
Kingi
Kingi From the guys behind Orphans Kitchen, Kingi offers a menu that celebrates our kaimoana, showcasing a range of locally-sourced, sustainable seafood that draws attention to New Zealand’s unique environment. Located on the ground floor of Britomart’s historic Masonic building (right next door to The Hotel Britomart) and open throughout the day, Kingi is great to drop into for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or even a quick coffee or cocktail.
Miann If it’s a sweet treat you’re after, look no further than Miann. Serving up a range of decadent pastries, savouries, petit gateaux, macarons, gelato and housemade chocolates (all of which are made from ethically-sourced Cacao at Miann’s dedicated Morningside factory), and open from 7am until late into the night, this is the ideal pitstop for an afternoon pick-me-up or a post-dinner dessert.
Nightime
MoVida
MoVida From its Izzard-designed interiors to its cult-followed food offering, MoVida in Britomart is the New Zealand chapter of Melbourne’s iconic, Hosier Lane stalwart that was opened by Frank Camorra in 2003. Serving a menu of delicious tapas-style dishes alongside mouthwatering mains and some seriously moreish desserts to boot, this Britomart favourite has fast become our go-to for special occasions, pre-show dinners and really any night that we feel like treating ourselves. If you’re yet to pay this place a visit, take this as your sign to book a table STAT.
Mr Morris Mr Morris made a serious splash when it landed in Britomart a few years ago, and for very good reason. Widely praised for its food that showcases local, sustainable and seasonal produce in dishes that present as a modern mash-up of New Zealand and Pasifika cuisine, this impressive restaurant is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a calm environment and a culinary experience.
Ghost Street
Ghost Street Ghost Street was conceived by the same culinary minds behind Perch (formerly Xuxu Dumpling Bar), Cafe Hanoi and the sorely-missed Saan, and quickly became one of the hottest dining spots in the area. Set in what used to be the Basement of 1885, the restaurant is dimly lit and atmospheric, designed to reimagine the bustling, hole-in-the-wall eateries of Beijing’s famous food street. This idea carries onto the menu too, where punchy, seasonal dishes (inspired by a wide cross-section of Chinese cuisine) run the gamut of flavours from tart and savoury to Sichuan and spice.
Perch What used to be Xuxu Dumpling Bar is now Perch, taking everything that we loved about the former and elevating it to the next level. The fit-out is an update of the existing Xuxu which, while retaining its intimate vibe, has been opened up with an extended exterior, inviting diners (or those seeking a tasty tipple) to enjoy the Downtown streetscape. The menu heroes traditional Chinese dumplings and spring rolls, with the focus on offering a range of unique and mouthwatering flavours that draw from a variety of East Asian cuisines, harnessing ingredients like kimchi, Sichuan pepper and XO Sauce. A flavoursome, cosy drop in or the perfect place to park up with friends for a casual dinner.
Ebisu
Ebisu You’ll find some of the city’s best Japanese fare at this Britomart stalwart, where izakaya-style dining is given a sophisticated twist. Settle into Ebisu’s moody, low-lit dining room and enjoy a selection of delicious plates to share, from sushi and sashimi to dumplings, tempura and larger dishes like seared duck breast and Kagoshima Black wagyu scotch. Although open for lunch service as well, nothing beats an intimate dinner here with friends or family.
Cafe Hanoi Following its refurbishment and relocation some years ago, Cafe Hanoi continues to be one of Britomart’s most popular eateries. From its divine menu that takes traditional Vietnamese flavours and gives them a modern twist to its lively atmosphere that promises a fun, buzzing dining experience, it’s clear to see why this downtown hotspot has remained on our radar for so long.
Drinks
Left: Caretaker Right: Bar Non Solo
Bar Non Solo Located in the refurbished space that previously housed The Deck at Ostro, Bar Non Solo is the more convivial sister of Parnell stalwart, Non Solo Pizza, and has dialled up the vibe of its suburban counterpart to offer a party-ready space that’s perfect for after-work drinks, pre-dinner snacks and lively nightcaps. The drinks list focuses on Italian cocktails (including negroni on tap), spritzes, digestifs and wine, while Savor Group Executive Chef Chris Rendell has reinvented the menu to have more of a small-plates focus. Find pasta, antipasti and salumi among the various sharing dishes, as well as the eatery’s famous pizza (an impressive pizza oven has been installed). The perfect place to start, or end, any night.
Caretaker Designed after a New-York style speakeasy, Caretaker is a cocktail lounge inspired by the golden era of bartending. Beloved for its dimly-lit, underground vibe and its meticulous cocktails (punters can choose from an extensive menu or simply ‘trust the bartender’ to whip up a delicious concoction) this popular bar will transport you to another world.
There’s little doubt that winter is truly upon us; the nights are long, and in a bid not to spend them at home in front of the television, we’ve been filling our calendars with all sorts of enticing events. From exhibition openings to film festivals and outrageous cabaret experiences, our June Culture Guide comprises all the events drawing us out of the house this season.
With showstopping and slightly risque acts and acrobatics, this international troupe will launch the world premiere of Circa’s Peepshow (Club Remix) on the Auckland stage this month. The performance itself is razor-sharp and funny, delivered by an unspeakably skilled cast, all set to the soundtrack of a live DJ. Should you consider yourself a fan of the circus, live music, or perhaps a tasteful striptease, you’ll find this absolutely brilliant. Thursday, 29th June — Saturday, 1st July, The Civic
No stranger to Parnell Gallery, local artist Tim Jones will this month present his next collection, Voyage. Speaking to the notion of journeys, be they physical or spiritual, it is thought that there is always the opportunity to garner a new way of understanding. This series of expressionist works evoke feelings of spaces and travels past — the perfect opportunity to add a poignant new piece to your collection perhaps. Tuesday, 22nd June — Tuesday, 4th July, Parnell Gallery
In a bid to alleviate tensions felt around discussing personal matters with strangers, local mental health collective Everyday Solitude has imagined a fun new card game that encourages people to start talking. The pop-up acts as a filming opportunity to promote the game, meaning you will be among the first to try it, and sponsored by Supreme Coffee and Daily Bread, you’re sure to be well nourished too. 10am — 12pm, Saturday, 10th June, Pollen Studios
This month the L’OR French Film Festival Aotearoa returns with the crème de la crème of French cinema. Nicolas Bedos’ Masquerade, a Riviera-set mystery featuring France’s most recognisable leading men, opens the festival, alongside four other Cannes films. With a great lineup of comedies and dramas, the festival promises to be a tour de cinema that is an unmissable entry in this month’s culture guide. Auckland dates have already begun with an impressive three-week romp of cinematic action. Discover the full programme and tickets here. Wednesday, 31st May — Wednesday, 21st June, various locations
With the New Zealand Philharmonic Orchestra and some of our nation’s final vocal artists in tow, the sound of the late composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim will come to life for one night only. Widely regarded as one of the greatest influences on Broadway, you’ll experience some of the greatest musical numbers unlike ever before. Thursday, 22nd June, The Civic
Those with a penchant for fine ceramics would do well to visit Sanderson Contemporary Art this month, as the group exhibition States of Flow takes place in the second gallery. Featuring six contemporary artists, it is a collective yet varied response to the term ‘flow state’. Tuesday, 6th June — Sunday, 2nd July, Sanderson Contemporary Art
Taking place in the early days of July, we’ve snuck this entry into our culture guide as your reminder to book tickets asap for this unmissable experience. Transporting the phenomenal talents of Cirque Du Soleil onto the ice, Crystal comprises the troupe’s signature surrealist shows with an entirely new challenge to work with. Tuesday, 4th July — Friday, 9th July, Spark Arena
An entirely new exhibition arrives at Auckland’s War Memorial Museum this month, transporting visitors back to Egypt in a time when Pharaohs walked the earth. A fascinating glimpse at this time in history, where there are so many questions still left unanswered (how exactly did the pyramids get there), the exhibition showcases more than original artefacts, scale models, and interactive displays offering a glimpse into what life was like 5,000 years ago on the banks of the majestic River Nile. Thursday, 15th June — Sunday, 12th November, Auckland War Memorial Museum
Guest curated by Jane Devery, this is the first major survey exhibition of the artist’s work to be held on home soil. It includes recent works that reflect Brent Harris’ reconnection with New Zealand as well as paintings and prints drawn from his most important series of works dating from the late 1980s to the present. Saturday, 6th May — Sunday, 17th September, Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tāmaki
Rising comedy star Taylor Tomlinson is bringing her sharp wit and acclaimed Netflix special to New Zealand for the very first time. Having earned a reputation as one of the most talented and incisive comedians of her generation, Tomlinson has been praised for her clever writing and biting humour. Don’t miss your chance to see this “whip-smart and spectacularly cynical” performer live on stage. Friday, 30th June, Auckland Town Hall
Experience the poetic and powerful masterpiece that is Shakespeare’s King Lear, brought to life by renowned New Zealand actor and Shakespeare expert Michael Hurst. The play explores the complexities of human nature through the story of an ageing king poised to abdicate his crown and confront his identity. Hurst’s bold and contemporary production, staged in the ASB Waterfront Theatre, promises to be a blazing performance that will leave audiences humbled and moved. Tuesday, 13th of June until Sunday, 1st July, ASB Waterfront Theatre
Velvety-voiced Canadian crooner Michael Bublé is set to grace the stage of Spark Arena for an unforgettable evening of chart-topping hits and innovative renditions of his beloved classics. Buble’s charismatic presence and open-hearted banter are sure to leave audiences feeling good and longing for more of his multi-platinum-selling magic. An unmissable addition to this month’s culture guide, don’t pass up your chance to experience one of the most extraordinary performers of our time. Sunday, 25th June, Spark Arena
Experience the gripping world of Suzie Miller’s Laurence Olivier Award-winning play, Prima Facie. The one-woman play stars Acushla-Tara Kupe, who is set to deliver a mesmerizing performance as Tessa Ensler, a ruthless criminal defence barrister whose faith in the law is shattered. Directed by Paul Gittins, this production delves into the dark complexities of justice in an unforgettable exploration of power, success, and the flaws within our legal system. With its thought-provoking narrative, this one-woman masterpiece will leave a lasting impact on audiences at the Herald Theatre, opening on Wednesday the 21st of June and running until Sunday the 9th of July.
Celebrating the rich cultural fabric that makes up our city, this month Auckland will play host to the Pacific Dance NZ Festival — a lively programme of our most talented indigenous dancers. Spanning two weeks, the festival embraces dance in all its forms with a series of showcases, live performances and workshops and is set to be a highlight of this month’s culture guide. Thursday, 1st June — Friday, 16th June, various locations
While this year’s Doc Edge Film Festival’s Auckland in-person dates have already been and gone (it was a swift one), films will still be screening virtually nationwide until Sunday the 9th of July. Now in its 18th year, the festival features 71 impressive films from around the world, based on the intentions of Being Oneself, Crime & Conspiracy, Fighting Spirit and Making An Impact. Wednesday, 24th May — Sunday, 9th July, online
Highlighting Vietnamese song and music, Memories is an enchanting affair that brings together four vocalists and two comedians for a celebration of culture in all its forms. As it is held at the luxurious SkyCity Theatre, we’d suggest booking dinner at one of the destination’s delicious restaurants and really making an evening of it. Friday, 9th June, SkyCity Theatre
Bringing the raucous musical to The Civic’s stage, here Cyndi Lauper’s score comes to life. Based on true events, this huge-hearted hit tells the story of two people with nothing in common with a hilarious and endearing series of twists and turns. Thursday, 25th May — Saturday, 17th Jun, The Civic
Responsible for some of our nation’s most beloved classic hits, any Dire Straits tour is always worthy of our culture guide. This iteration sees the band revisiting their third album, Making Movies, which led to the classic ‘Tunnel of Love’. With one show only, this shouldn’t be missed. Saturday, 10th June, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre
With the cold weather descending, here is a selection of products we recommend for getting you through the coming months — from enriching body butter to essential face cream and even a few things to keep your immune system strong, too.
BePure One Multivitamin
Winter is the perfect time to fortify your body with the ultimate multivitamin, BePure One. With more than 50 bioavailable ingredients, this high-strength supplement is designed to nourish your body from the inside out, providing essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellness. Its scientifically-backed formulation supports energy and vitality, immunity, mental clarity, and even hair, skin and nail health, making it a must-have for the colder months ahead.
Tronque Firming Body Butter
Packed with velvety shea, cacao and mango butters, Tronque’s skin soufflé will deeply nourish and protect your skin from dryness and damage, while biotech ceramides, Mamaku, niacinamide, squalane, hyaluronic acid and glycerine revitalise and calm dry, damaged areas, lending a smooth, moisturised skin for winter.
Byredo Suede Hand Cream
This winter essential will keep your hands and nails nourished and soft. With notes of bergamot, lily of the valley and amber, this delicate fragrance evokes the freshness of spring, making it the perfect escape from the colder months. Its lightweight yet hydrating formula is ideal for essential everyday hydration.
Emma Lewisham Supernatural Face Crème Riche
The only product we turn to when our skin needs some extra love (and hydration), Emma Lewisham’s cult-favourite, velvet-like Supernatural cream is packed with the latest high-performing ingredients and has been scientifically proven to regenerate collagen at a cellular level. Not only does it deeply moisturise, but its powerful, natural ingredients will improve the look of fine lines while enhancing skin clarity, glow and suppleness.
Kaēa The Vitaliser Multi-Omega Face Oil
Harnessing the power of botanical ingredients that include free-radical defending, collagen-boosting superfruits, vitamins A & E and essential fatty acids, this New Zealand-made omega-charged face oil will deliver an instant (and lasting) boost to the skin. Made from nature’s finest 26+ cell-nourishing, skin-renewing botanicals, The Vitaliser will protect and regenerate, prevent trans-epidermal water loss and strengthen cell integrity. An essential in any seasonal skincare routine.
Aotea Mānuka Honey 500+ MGO
A winter essential, everyone should have a pot of this anti-microbial mānuka honey on their shelf, for enjoying on toast, adding to tea or simply taking by the spoonful when in need of an immune boost. All of Aotea’s honey is sustainably sourced and packed straight from the hives just as nature intended — raw and unpasteurised.
Long gone are the days when drivers had to choose between powerful performance and practicality, something that has been made abundantly clear with the recent unveiling of Maserati’s new Grecale SUV. In fact, I would argue that some of the best cars on the road now are SUVs — plucked from the soccer-mom sidelines to become sought after by drivers of all kinds, from those who seek speed and grunty performance to those who want comfortable space and luxury, to those for whom practical pursuits are the only priority. Dubious? Let me explain.
The Maserati Grecale plays into its tagline of ‘Everyday Exceptional’ for the way it expertly balances the luxury and technical prowess of an Italian sportscar with the space and functionality of an SUV. Designed to offer a slightly smaller profile when compared to its larger sibling, the Levante, the Grecale is available in three distinct iterations — the GT, the Modena and the Trofeo — each offering different things to different drivers.
In its GT form, the Grecale is Maserati’s expression of a minimalist, urban vehicle that, from its sophisticated interiors (anchored by sleek, leather detailing and burnished inserts) to its four-cylinder, mild hybrid engine (capable of 300 horsepower) is ideal for the design-minded driver. Perfect for an everyday city-ready drive, the Grecale GT offers a balance of performance and poise, and will likely attract a whole new category of driver to the historic marque.
The Modena, on the other hand, has been designed for those who like driving out of the city, for fans of the great outdoors. Sporting the innate, timeless elegance that is expected from Maserati, the Grecale Modena is powered by a four-cylinder, 330-horsepower mild hybrid engine and delivers an eye-catching interior thanks to its recurring, stitched graphic motif that weaves across the dashboard, panels and seats.
Rounding out the trio is the undeniably impressive Trofeo — an embodiment of the most extreme aspects of Maserati, offering pinnacle performance and power. This is the peak of Maserati’s SUV offering. It is the car for sports enthusiasts seeking comfort and luxury, yes, but above all, a driving experience that is second to none. Under the hood of the Grecale Trofeo hums a breath-taking 530-horsepower petrol V6 engine, which (for those who know) was based on Maserati’s iconic MC20 Nettuno engine — an impressive feat indeed. Inside the cabin, the Trofeo oozes cool, from its three-dimensional carbon fibre to its perforated leather, to its chevron motifs that emphasise the car’s dynamism and speak to its eye-catching presence on the road carried by 21-inch alloy wheels with sporty, contrasting callipers.
It’s fitting that the Grecale was named after a prevailing, Italian wind (following the time-honoured Maserati tradition) because it really has blown every other SUV of its kind out of the water. For me, who loves performance but needs practicality, it offers the kind of balance that is truly hard to come by, drawing me in for its striking good looks and unparalleled driving experience and keeping me hooked for the attention to detail.
Here, nothing has been left to chance. The Grecale takes into consideration the lifestyle and comfort of its driver via innovative technology, a best-in-class sound system and a level of customisable comfort that means you can pack your lanky teenagers into the back with zero complaints or embark on a lengthy road-trip without needing multiple leg-stretching stops. When I was lucky enough to take the Grecale Trofeo for a drive, highlights included the immersive experience of the car’s award-winning Sonus Faber multi-dimensional sound system, the generous, 12-inch digital display on which I could control all the features of the car with a simple touch, and the way that I could change the shape of my driver’s seat so that it hugged my form perfectly, allowing me to feel even more comfortable behind the wheel.
On the road, the Grecale offers a driving experience that feels almost bespoke, allowing me to switch between Comfort Mode (perfect for my morning coffee run) to GT Mode (upping the ante for my drive to work), to Sport Mode (which made my expedition to the other side of town a thrilling experience), and finally, to Corsa Mode, which I was privileged to experience by virtue of the fact that I was driving the Grecale Trofeo (exclusive to the most luxurious iteration of the Grecale, this mode transforms the SUV into the truest expression of Maserati’s exceptional performance and history, offering a power and a sound that is almost indescribable). There is also an Off-Road Mode which, being city-bound I didn’t experience first-hand, although I have heard great things.
I could go on about the technical prowess of Maserati’s newest addition, but for someone like me, it is the sum of all those parts, plus the marque’s meticulous design that make the Grecale such an appealing prospect. For those seeking something that will set pulses racing but is still perfectly acceptable for the morning school run, this is the car for you.
Though we’d like to consider our tastebuds more refined, truthfully, few things hit the sweet spot better than a fresh, sticky doughnut. And as most Aucklanders know, few purveyors do this better than Doe Donuts — the brainchild of a best-friend duo that offers some seriously indulgent goods. After opening its first brick-and-mortar store two years ago, Doe Donuts has officially opened its second location in Commercial Bay, making its offering all the more convenient for city-slickers like us.
Found at the entrance to Harbour Eats, this kiosk-style shop fits the Doe Donuts vision perfectly. With a hot pink and white awning that feels almost Barbie-like, it’s cutesy, cool, and, most importantly, hard to miss.Here, you can indulge in all of Doe’s seriously delicious doughnut flavours, like its signature vanilla glazes and cinnamon sugars, as well as the far more decadent, ever-changing filled doughnuts, which will be available from lunchtime (due to the fact that each is lovingly handmade). These all pair perfectly with Allpress Coffee, which the kiosk will also be serving for a necessary morning combo.
Unlike the original Grey Lynn outpost, the Harbour Eats destination will be open all week (in line with the other adjacent offerings) from 9am until 6pm. Although we have been told that there is a high likelihood that flavours could sell out throughout the day, given the brand’s popularity, it again speaks to the widespread appeal of this fun, indulgent donut purveyor, where everything is made fresh daily to inject our every day with a necessary dose of something sweet.
Doe Donuts Commercial Bay
Harbour Eats, Level 2,
Commercial Bay, 21 Queen Street,
Auckland Central
There is a plethora of tasty delights for foodies to enjoy this June — each the perfect, indulgent antidote to these cold winter days. From whisky celebrations to pop-up dinners to culinary collaborations, here is everything happening on Auckland’s dining scene this month.
Left to right: Bar Magda’s ube puto souffle and ube sour
Bar Magda Turns Two
Mark the two-year milestone of one of our favourite dining destinations by booking a table at Bar Magda and enjoying a raft of special birthday offerings. First and foremost, the restaurant will be bringing back its iconic (and widely beloved) ube puto souffle and ube sour, which land back on the menu today (the 1st of June). It will also be offering two special, Bar Magda feasting menus available for parties of four or more on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout the month of June. Diners will receive a bottle of wine and can choose between the two-course (at $70 per person) and the four-course ($95 per person) sharing menu, with the latter option including Bar Magda’s famous soufflé as part of the dessert.
In addition, on the 10th of June, Bar Magda will be relaxing its Vision of Pinot 2022 the second vintage made by Brood Fermentation from Moutere, Nelson. This wine was specifically made to complement the unique flavour profile of Bar Magda’s culinary offering. On the evening of the release, Head Winemaker Jim Brown will be in the restaurant to pour and showcase the wine, with special glass pour prices on the night.
Suntory’s Hibiki
Suntory Time
Lovers of whisky, take note. The purveyor of some of the finest Japanese whisky around, Suntory, is celebrating 100 years of its pioneering spirit with a pop-up bar on level six of the Seafarers building in Britomart. The House of Suntory Bar will host four special tasting nights for enthusiasts of the brand on Friday the 23rd, Saturday the 24th, Thursday the 29th and Friday the 30th of June. There, New Zealand’s House of Suntory Brand Ambassador Rory Donnelly will take guests through the history of the individual distilleries and a range of expressions including an exclusive tasting of the limited-edition 100-Year Anniversary Yamazaki 18-year-old valued at $4,599 per bottle. This will be accompanied by an exclusive viewing of the Suntory Anniversary Tribute Film, by Sofia Coppola, as well as a selection of delicious snacks made to pair perfectly with the whisky, prepared by the Executive Head Chef of Ebisu and Azabu. Spaces for this exclusive event are limited and tickets are on sale now, so book with haste, we say.
Mor Pop-Up at Annabel’s
This Sunday the 11th of June, head to Annabel’s Wine Bar from 10am for a delicious Italian celebration with the clever pastry maestros from Mor Bakery. There, you’ll find Italian-inspired pastries and a selection of moreish sandwiches made with Mor’s special focaccia, alongside plenty of tasty drinks and spritzes to end your week on a high note.
Ginger Kiss at The Brit
Dubbed the ultimate, winter-warmer drink, The Brit’s new, seasonal cocktail (made to celebrate World Gin Day on the 10th of June) is a spicy, sweet and satiating affair, inspired by the Ginger Kiss biscuit — an iconic Kiwi classic. Harnessing the exceptional flavour profile of Lighthouse Gin’s signature double-distilled drop, the ‘Gin-ger Kiss’ cocktail is made with decadent white cacao liqueur and cream and served in a coupe glass with a sprinkle of nutmeg. Only available until the 30th of June, get down to The Brit to enjoy this cosy drink while you can.
Tala at Bar Magda
TALA at Bar Magda
Another notable happening at Bar Magda this month is the Tala pop-up, bringing modern Samoan cuisine to discerning Auckland diners. On the nights of Tuesday the 13th and Tuesday the 20th of June, Chef Henry Onesemo (ex-Meredith’s, Apero and East St. Hall) will be taking over the Bar Magda kitchen to showcase traditional Samoan flavours through an innovative, modern dining experience. For $90 per person, diners will be treated to an array of snacks, alongside a three-course menu that sees Onesemo tell his own tales of Samoa through familiar ingredients presented with a fresh twist. The pop-ups are a “taster” as we have heard that Onesemo and his partner are looking for a space in which to launch Tala as a standalone restaurant later this year with more pop-up events planned for the coming months. Bookings for its first event at Bar Magda can be made here.
Ata Rangi x Onslow Dinner
Set to host an unforgettable night of fine wine and tasty food, Onslow is welcoming Helen Masters of Ata Rangi wines to the restaurant for a special, one-night-only dinner. On Wednesday the 14th of June, diners will be able to immerse themselves in the award-winning wines of one of New Zealand’s most esteemed wineries, paired with a bespoke,. five-course menu crafted by Josh Emett. Tickets are $260 per person, and can be secured here.
Alex Davies of Gatherings & James Opie of Bryterlater Wines at Roses
In yet another stellar series at Roses Dining Room on K’ Road, Alex Davies of Gatherings is teaming up with James Pie of Bryterlater Wines for a remarkable, two-night-only dinner you don’t want to miss. Davies’ restaurant Gatherings, in Christchurch, is an innovative, farm-to-table concept that, when it opened, was a pioneer in a city that really had no dining scene at all (alongside serving low-intervention natural wines long before they became cool). Opie has been working with Davies for a long time, and after doing seasons at a number of vineyards around the world and across Canterbury, decided to start his own label, Bryterlater Wines. There, Opie adheres to minimal intervention practices in an endeavour to offer wines that speak for themselves. He acknowledges whatever the season gives and uses it to guide his process, using organically-farmed grapes from select sites within the North Canterbury region. Together, these two culinary minds have been collaborating (and good friends) for a number of years, so to be able to experience the expertise of both together at Roses will be something special. The Alex x James dinners will take place on Friday the 16th and Saturday the 17th of June. Book here.
Express lunches at Gochu
If it’s a quick but delicious lunch you’re after, head down to Commercial Bay dining destination Gochu for an unmissable midday deal. From Monday to Friday, diners can discover a delicious Express Lunch menu for $45, comprising four courses of small plates with a rotating cast of dishes — all prepared in 30 minutes or under. Taking the idea of a quick bite and elevating it, Gochu’s new lunch offering is the perfect excuse to escape the office for a midday break.
Alta Seafood Platter
Alta Is Closing Its Doors
Given how hard our clever hospitality operators work to keep their venues humming, it’s always a sad day that a dining destination announces its closure. But, after a few years of highs and lows, the time has come for Alta on K’Road to close its doors, with the last service set to happen on Saturday the 17th of June. Until then, Alta has announced that over the next two weeks, it will be showcasing a menu of its greatest hits with wines to match, inviting everyone in for one last chance to experience the clever culinary stylings of Owner and Head Chef, Georgia Van Prehn. Book your spot here before it’s too late and let’s ensure that this great little spot goes out with a bang.
Poppies x Oyster Inn Dinner
Head over to lauded Waiheke Island restaurant, Oyster Inn for a special, one-night-only dinner with Poppies Martinborough, held on Thursday the 22nd of June. There, diners will be guided on a delicious culinary journey by Josh Emett and acclaimed winemaker, Poppy Hammond, through four courses that combine the finest seasonal ingredients with Poppies exceptional wines. With limited seating, this one-time event is a must for any foodie or lover of fine wine. Tickets can be booked here.
Left to right: Hapunan Ube Donut and Tinola Fried Chicken
Hapunan Pop-Up at Goodside
Lauded Filipino food truck, Hapunan is popping up in a temporary kitchen space at Takapuna’s Goodside from today for the whole month of June. From Tuesday to Friday, 11:30am until 2pm (or sell-out) the team will be serving up a raft of our favourite, flavoursome Filipino bites. Don’t miss your opportunity to find out what all the fuss is about and support some excellent, local culinary talent.
The newest addition Ponsonby Central is inviting us to indulge in something sweet and feel good about it in the process. Newly-opened Lulu’s is a charming spot dedicated to plant-based soft serve and nutrient-packed acai bowls, and marks an evolution from the brand’s cult-followed, food truck beginnings. Here, flavour and sustainability come together in harmony, and there are already people lining up to get a taste of the magic for themselves.
You’ll find Lulu’s tucked in the laneway by Silky Otter, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. It’s the brainchild of Lula and Tyla Samuel, a mother-daughter team inspired by the latter’s travels across Europe, Indonesia and Australia. Having noticed a gap in the market, they decided to bring delicious, plant-based soft-serve ice cream and Brazilian acai bowls to our city in new and innovative ways. And so far, it seems the venture is paying off.
The hero at Lulu’s is its coconut-based soft serve, a treat that tastes as good as it looks. The flavours are mesmerisingly swirled together to create flavour combinations that are delicious and undeniably photogenic. Instagram-friendly, if you will. The most popular flavour, we’re told, is the mango soft serve. Reminiscent of both the tropical vacation we crave and the sorely-missed Fruju Tropical Snow, it’s easy to see why this iteration has become so sought-after.
In addition, Lulu’s Ponsonby also serves incredible acai bowls. But instead of blending everything together like many other places, the team here hand-scoops the ingredients, which results in a delightfully creamy texture. The bowls are topped with seasonal fruits and superfoods, turning them from a tasty treat to a healthy indulgence.
Before finding this permanent Ponsonby home, Lulu’s operated from a food truck for four years. And while the duo behind Lulu’s loved being on the go, they found that the weather sometimes got in the way of their events, and it soon became clear it was time to lay down more permanent roots. That’s why they were thrilled when they found the perfect little shop window in the heart of a humming hospitality hub. It was the opportunity they had been waiting for.
The Samuels have big dreams for Lulu’s. They hope to keep expanding the menu and even open a second location one day. With their dedication to solely plant-based cuisine and their commitment to deliciousness, there’s no doubt that Lulu’s will continue to grow and gather more foodie fans along the way.
In the wellbeing realm, where the pursuit of ultimate indulgence is neverending, East Day Spa has long been a leader of the pack and a beacon of constant innovation. Recently, its flagship location, an oasis-like spa in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, has undergone a breathtaking metamorphosis. Reflective of the East Day Spa team’s unwavering commitment to redefining the essence of the spa experience, the refurbished space now radiates an aura of opulence and serenity that is simply unrivalled, and boasts a series of new spaces in which clients can find relaxation and rejuvenation on a whole other level.
The new interior of East Day Spa has been carefully designed to create a contemporary haven of calm. Curved accents and luxurious materials combine harmoniously, allowing visitors to escape their busy, daily lives to a world of tranquillity and peace. The spa now boasts state-of-the-art facilities and treatments catering to every wellness need, including a highly-anticipated Tepidarium and Sauna Space.
The Tepidarium is a purpose-built warm relaxation room that almost oozes bliss. Five Italian stone-heated loungers emit a radiant, gentle heat, designed to gently melt away muscle tension and encourage the mind to unwind. It is the perfect space to surrender your body to complete relaxation, whether before or after a treatment or simply as a peaceful vacation from the outside world. Sessions in the East Tepidarium can be enjoyed for as little as 30 minutes, accommodating a maximum of five people per session for an intimate and exclusive experience.
For those seeking heat therapy on a deeper level, East Day Spa now also offers a new range of Clearlight Infrared Saunas. These sublime spaces provide a personal sanctuary where clients can bask in warmth and comfort. The healing infrared light penetrates the body, removing toxins, relieving muscle pain, boosting metabolism, alleviating joint stiffness, improving skin health, and even diminishing the appearance of cellulite. Whether you enjoy this serene space alone or with a friend, the new saunas promise a transformative experience.
Founded in 2002, East Day Spa has locations in Auckland, Wellington and Bali. The team’s dedication to exceeding guests’ expectations is evident in the spas’ extensive treatment menus, offering more than 70 options that encompass both Eastern remedies and cutting-edge European skincare — this latest foray into heat therapy is just one example.
Really, there’s no better opportunity to escape the stresses of daily life than with East Day Spa’s newly unveiled Tepidarium and Sauna Space. Here, you can surrender to complete relaxation, rejuvenate your body and emerge feeling entirely refreshed and ready to take on anything.
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