Planning a holiday? Here’s why you should book a luxurious island getaway at Te Vakaroa Villas

If you’re already planning next year’s holidays, why not lock in a luxurious island getaway? With crystal clear waters, beautiful nature, and plenty of sunshine, Rarotonga is the perfect escape, and at the award-winning Te Vakaroa Villas resort, rest, relaxation and recuperation await.

An opulent retreat deserving of its accolade as the ‘Best South Pacific & Oceania Luxury Architectural Design Hotel’ in the World Travel Awards, Te Vakaroa Villas in Rarotonga is an oasis of tranquillity and refined elegance. 

As you step into this exclusive haven, a sense of serenity will take hold, signalling the start of an extraordinary escape. The award-winning accommodation is nestled discreetly along the pristine beachfront of Muri Lagoon and comprises six luxurious villas, impeccably designed to merge with the Island’s natural allure, each offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Designed by renowned architect Lawrence Sumich, the resort harmoniously blends with its lush surroundings, where spacious interiors converge into outdoor spaces adorned with inviting loungers and a horizon-edged, heated infinity pool. The villas themselves are thoughtfully appointed and incredibly comfortable, offering convivial communal areas for dining and lounging as well as intimate spaces for relaxation, and moments of secluded repose.

Exquisite, daily tropical breakfasts are just the beginning of the culinary experiences here. With dining options ranging from Sails restaurant to the vibrant flavours found along the island road, guests can indulge in Rarotonga’s vibrant and flourishing culinary scene as well as its plentiful natural wonders.

From beachfront strolls to adventurous kayak expeditions, the Island’s many splendours beckon from the unparalleled vantage point this accommodation offers. The only dilemma will be deciding whether to venture out and explore or savour every moment within the embrace of this heavenly escape.

Need To Know

When to Visit: The best time to visit Rarotonga is between April and November, when the weather is warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 24 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius. 

How to get there: Air New Zealand flies direct from Auckland to Rarotonga. When you land on the island, you will be driven 20 minutes to Te Vakaroa Villas via private transfer. 

Insider’s Tip: Exploring the Muri Lagoon is a must while on holiday here. Make time to hire a glass bottom boat, or embark on a wind surfing or sailing adventure. The Rarotonga Sailing Club at Muri Lagoon welcomes all visitors. 

tevakaroavillas.com

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Children’s room by Banda

Transform your kids’ room into a creative oasis by looking skyward for inspiration

Create a whimsical wonderland for your little ones by looking to the skies for inspiration. Soft, ethereal clouds will create a calm canvas, complimented best by subtle hues and tactile touches.

Get the look
Cloud Nine
The Mammoth from Big Stuffed
GOLD HANDLOOM CASHMERE Rug from Design Central
Nemo Nuvola Minor pendant from Matisse
Magis Rocky from ECC
Pearl Blush & Serene from Resene
1977 Mini Playtime Sofa from King Living
Goki Train Amsterdam from Little Whimsy
MINI TOGO CHAIR from Ligne Roset
Giant Giraffe from luna & honey
MDF Italia Randomito Hanging Bookcase from Matisse

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It Takes Two (1995)
Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
The Goonies (1985)

Movie night: Kids will love these nostalgic 80s & 90s film favourites

We might be harking back to the past with rose-tinted glasses, but one thing’s for sure: they don’t make kids movies like they used to.

This weekend, snuggle up with the family and throw on one of these ten classics from the eighties and nineties. Even if the special effects are a little more, shall we say, rustic, than modern day, it’s part of their charm and we’re sure you’ll find they stand the test of time.

The Goonies (1985)

Cult favourite The Goonies follows a pack of boys as they uncover a treasure map that, you guessed it, leads them on an exciting and perilous adventure. Searching for the long-lost treasure of legendary 17th-century pirate One-Eyed Willy, The Goonies encounter more than they bargained for.

Matilda (1996)

A bright young girl with extraordinary telekinetic powers, Matilda Wormwood outsmarts her neglectful parents and battles the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, with wit and magic. This Roald Dahl classic is a heartwarming tale of intelligence, resilience, and finding family in unexpected places.

Beethoven (1992)

Chaos and charm collide when a lovable, oversized St. Bernard named Beethoven turns the Newton family’s world upside down. Between mischievous antics and a heartwarming bond, this family comedy is a feel-good adventure filled with slobbery kisses, laugh-out-loud moments, and plenty of puppy love.

Home Alone (1990)

Eight-year-old Kevin McCallister accidentally gets left behind at Christmas and must defend his home from two bumbling burglars. Armed with clever traps and endless tricks, Kevin turns the holiday mishap into a hilarious, action-packed adventure that remains a festive favourite for all ages.

Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

In a desperate attempt to stay close to his kids, a devoted but unconventional dad disguises himself as a quirky, elderly nanny. Robin Williams’ comedic genius shines in this heartfelt, hilarious film about love, family, and the lengths one will go to for their children.

It Takes Two (1995)

When identical strangers — one a wealthy socialite, the other an orphan — discover their uncanny resemblance, they hatch a plan to swap lives and unite their guardians. Featuring the Olsen twins at their best, this charming mix of adventure, romance, and mischief is a nostalgic delight.

E.T the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

Who could forget a young Drew Barrymore’s ear-splitting scream as she discovers her brother’s new alien friend in their house? When a gentle alien becomes stranded on Earth, a young boy named Elliott befriends him, leading to a heartwarming adventure filled with wonder, friendship, and the iconic bicycle flight. A timeless Spielberg masterpiece, E.T. captures the magic of childhood and the power of connection.

The Parent Trap (1998)

Long-lost twin sisters, separated at birth, reunite at summer camp and plot to bring their divorced parents back together. With playful pranks, heartfelt moments, and Lindsay Lohan’s standout dual performance, this modern remake of a beloved classic is a delightful watch for all ages.

Richie Rich (1994)

The world’s wealthiest kid, Richie Rich, has everything — except real friends. When a scheming executive threatens his family’s fortune, Richie and his loyal butler embark on an action-packed adventure to save the day. A fun, lighthearted film about friendship, family, and the power of kindness.

Space Jam (1996)

When the Looney Tunes challenge alien invaders to a high-stakes basketball game, they enlist NBA superstar Michael Jordan to help them win. Blending live-action and animation, Space Jam is a fast-paced, fun-filled adventure packed with comedy, sports action, and nostalgic ’90s charm.

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Upgrade your shades with our guide to the new sunglasses that have our attention

The power of a good pair of sunglasses should never be underestimated. In fact, picking the right shades for your face can enhance your natural features like nothing else. Consider shape, colour and lens style carefully — selecting the right pair will see your outfits pulled together perfectly.

Here, we present a curated edit of our favourite styles right now. From uber-cool cat-eyes to colourful lenses and sporty shapes, these are the slick new sunglasses to add to your collection.

Wrap-around frame Sunglasses from Miu Miu
Miu Miu wrap-around-frame sunglasses from Farfetch
Bottega Veneta
Sardine sunglasses from Mytheresa
Bottega Veneta
sunglasses from MyTheresa
Jacquemus JAC55C1SUN Capri from Muse
Cat-eye frame sunglasses from Gucci
Loewe Signature at-eye sunglasses from Mytheresa
Rectangular Cat-eye Sunglasses from Saint Laurent
Jacquemus JAC86C1SUN Cabana from Muse
Loewe Round Spoiler Aviators from Parker & Co
Celine Triomphe Sunglasses from Parker & Co
Jacquemus Miranda Frameless Sunglasses from Moda Operandi
Square Frame Sunglasses from Gucci
Rectangular Cat-eye sunglasses from Saint Laurent

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Resene is making a strong case for elevated neutrals this season — here’s how to harness the enduring trend

Art direction — Amber Armitage/ Marigold
Photography — Wendy Fenwick/ Flash Studios

Lending subtle depth and dimension to any room of the home, a textured wall — rendered in a neutral hue, is a sure-fire way to add intrigue to an otherwise simple space. Here, the experts at Resene show us how to best harness this enduring trend.

While a neutral palette may feel like an easy option to employ throughout the home, in reality, it takes careful consideration and a trained eye to ensure simple hues don’t leave a space feeling soulless and uninviting. With neutrals, understated elegance is the objective, and a carefully selected, serene palette will imbue your home with an appeal that feels both timeless and embracing. And, if you wish to take an ordinary space to extraordinary heights, a textured dimension applied to a neutral wall is sure to make an impact. 

Resene
Colours To Try
Tea from Resene
Quarter Tea from Resene
Double Ash from Resene
Almond Frost from Resene

It is, of course, to the experts at Resene which we turn for advice on all things colour, who not only offer a vast array of hues, but the expertise to help in transforming your home into a refined sanctuary.

Walls and pillar painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Tea with Resene Paint Effects FX tinted to Resene Quarter Tea applied over the top. Floor painted in Resene Walk-On in Resene Tea. Travertine rug from Weave Home. Audo Interconnect candle holder, Donut side table from Tim Webber. Dining candle from Citta Design. Alster low table from Ligne Roset. Balloon vase 03, Anne Brigman book and Tuck scented candle from Slow Store. Apollo sofa by Maxalto, Big Shadow floor lamp by Cappellini and Bong table by Cappellini from Matisse.

A soft ivory acts as the perfect foundation from which to begin, offering a subtle backdrop with gentle warmth. Here, this natural shade has been enlivened with the use of texture — a layer of Paint FX adding depth and dimension, and complimenting the contemporary interior details. Simpler than they seem to achieve — thanks, in large part, to Resene’s innovative Paint FX range, textured walls have the ability to enliven any room of the home. 

Get The Look


SOHO HOME
PANGBOURNE RATTAN OTTOMAN TRAY from Design Central
Flexform Tessa leather armchair from Studio Italia
Penta Glo Table Lamp from Matisse
Here Mirror from Powersurge
Vita Highback chair from Tim Webber
Hashira floor lamp by Audo from Tim Webber
Alster low table from Ligne Roset
Electric Underground candle by Tom Dixon from ECC
Travertine rug from Weave home
Bio-mbo side table from Matisse
Interconnect candle holder by Audo from Dawson & Co.
Apollo Sofa by Maxalto from Matisse
The Makers by Anne Brigman book from Slow
Troll Vase by Audo from Tim Webber
Games collection Dice set from Studio Italia
Philippi Bow Candleholder from The Studio of Tableware
Apparatus Metronome Floor Lamp from ECC
TAITH
Large Lilu Velvet Candle from Moda Operandi

resene.co.nz

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A significant interior intervention by Chelsea Hing imparts logic and flow on this entertainer’s haven

Interior Design — Chelsea Hing
Stylist — Beck Simon
Photography — Rhiannon Taylor


Set in the historic Australian gold mining town of Bendigo, this contemporary home was deep in the design process when the client brought interior designer Chelsea Hing on board. Engaged to review the existing floor plan and run her creative lens over the home, Hing began by examining its location. Lying on the corner of two busy roads, the interior designer offered a responsive solution that best served the exposed site and the client by turning the focus inwards.

The strategic move is centred around a beautifully appointed entrance. As you step inside, a curved black brick wall guides you into the open receiving room, where a void between the ground floor and a second storey draws in light and life. Here, Hing has set the tone of the home, the fire-lit interior immediately intimate, with dark chocolate timber walls and a pale timber ceiling. Concrete floors, lime-washed walls, richly textured marble and stone add a moody sense of elegance, while jewel-toned furniture and vibrant art prevent it from feeling too formal.

“Hing’s intervention uses materiality to define the domestic spaces, simultaneously imbuing a playful element by hiding doors in wooden walls for an exaggerated sense of escape.”

The home peels off from this central space, feeding into the kitchen, living room, bedrooms, home theatre, and enclosed balcony. Hing’s intervention uses materiality to define the domestic spaces, simultaneously imbuing a playful element by hiding doors in wooden walls for an exaggerated sense of escape. The result is inherently personal, down to the custom-made artwork alcoves that were precisely sized to fit the clients’ paintings.

Though the interior palette revolves around deep, grounded tones, Hing has ensured it doesn’t read too dim by incorporating generous glazing adorned with sheer drapery. Floor-to-ceiling windows feature prominently, and sunken skylights puncture the top storey, welcoming soft shafts of light down into the darker corners and bathrooms. On the ground floor, glazed doors open to the plunge pool, outdoor living area and a manicured garden that wraps around the back of the home.

“Though the interior palette revolves around deep, grounded tones, Hing has ensured it doesn’t read too dim by incorporating generous glazing adorned with sheer drapery.”

Undertaking a design project mid-build is no easy feat, but Chelsea Hing has turned this challenge into an opportunity. By re-examining the floor plan and introducing a fresh aesthetic that blends texture, mood, and visual intrigue, the interior designer has pushed the home to an unexpected and impressive conclusion.

Design

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Dial up your denim with our curated edit of the jeans our editors are shopping from Muse

Forever the fashion favourite, denim is the wardrobe gift that keeps on giving. And, as the cooler months approach, we’re updating our wardrobes with new season jeans — from flares a la Kendrick to relaxed yet tapered barrel-leg iterations, classic high rises, and slouchy wide leg fits.

In thinking about the exact denim we need this season, it is to the sartorial experts at Muse that we turn. Not only do they offer a meticulously curated edit of styles, but they are careful to call in their denim from some of the world’s most coveted brands. Putting quality over quantity and always making sure that their line-up is interesting, varied and versatile, Muse has become a go-to for the local style set, many of whom rely upon this store to discover some of the best denim in town from brands that are internationally sought-after. 

Shop the edit
01. The Classic High Rise
Danielle Jean by Khaite from Muse
Palma Straight Denim Jeans by Citizens of Humanity from Muse
Joan Jean by Nili Lotan from Muse
90’s Pinch Waist by Agolde from Muse
Shop the edit
02. The Curved Barrel
Classic Wash Denim Sid Jean by Tibi from Muse
Shon Jean by Nili Lotan from Muse
Otis Jean by Nili Lotan from Muse
Miro Relaxed Jean by Citizens of Humanity from Muse
Shop the edit
03. The Flare
Gracie Belted Denim Pant by Veronica Beard from Muse
The Colette Jean by Ulla Johnson from Muse
Quentin Jean by Nili Lotan from Muse
The Willow Jean by Ulla Johnson from Muse
Shop the edit
04. The Slouchy Wide-leg
Spring Denim Tuck Jean by Tibi from Muse
Deconstruct Denim Jean by Christopher Esber from Muse
Twisted Slouch Jean by Victoria Beckham from Muse
Denim Low Rise Jean by Wardrobe NYC from Muse

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J’aime has arrived in Auckland, marking a bold new chapter for a beloved pâtisserie

Fifteen years after introducing Christchurch to handcrafted macarons that capture the elegance of a European pâtisserie, J’aime is bringing its signature indulgence to Auckland. Opening its doors at Commercial Bay on Valentine’s Day, the boutique redefines the traditional macaron experience with sleek design and an expansive confectionery selection.

Founded in 2008 by Bridget O’Sullivan, J’aime began as a passion project inspired by her travels through London and Europe. What started as a boutique offering small-batch, exquisitely crafted macarons quickly became a cherished name in New Zealand’s culinary landscape. Now, with designer Denise Morreau joining as a partner, J’aime is stepping into a new era, blending refined technique with bold, contemporary aesthetics.

Summer 25′ Box

Stepping inside the Commercial Bay store, customers will find themselves immersed in a world of colour and craftsmanship. Designed by Morreau in collaboration with MA Architecture Studio, the boutique defies the dainty, pastel-hued expectations of macaron boutiques. Instead, it embraces a confident red-on-red palette, framing each macaron like a work of edible art.

Left: Berries and Cream with raspberries and blueberries folded through with strawberry buttercream. Right: Valentine’s Day gift box

Alongside J’aime’s signature macaron collections, including the much-anticipated Brûlé Macaron, the Auckland store will offer an expanded range of confections and sauces. And while there may be no drinks on the menu, every bite promises a moment of pure indulgence.

Left: Butter Crayons. Right: Brule Macaron

To celebrate its arrival in Auckland, J’aime will host a complimentary macaron tasting on Saturday, February 17th, from 12 — 1pm. Whether you’re a longtime devotee or discovering J’aime for the first time, let this be your invitation to indulge.

Opening Hours:
Monday — Sunday, 9.30am — 4.30pm

jaimelesmacarons.co.nz

J’aime

Commercial Bay
First Floor
7 Queen Street
Auckland Central

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Gwyneth Paltrow’s home bar by Romanek Design Studio

In-home bars are an essential addition to the modern home — elevate yours with this edit of essential accoutrements

While of course a well-stocked bar cart serves its practical purpose and brings a certain conviviality to the home, going all out and setting up a fully-fledged bar or cellar takes in-home entertaining to new heights.

Left: Kirribilli Apartment by Tsai Design. Right: Residence B by Studio Albus

For those who love to entertain, a dedicated bar is a must, offering a chic space for hosting and a practical area to store your assemblage of bottles, glassware, and all of the essential accoutrements for cocktail hour.  Or, if space doesn’t allow for a fully dedicated room, home bars can just as easily be integrated into living rooms and kitchens, sitting as a focal point or occupying under-utilised nooks.

“For those who love to entertain, a dedicated bar is a must, offering a chic space for hosting and a practical area to store the essential accoutrements for cocktail hour”

More than a functional corner of the home, bar areas offer an opportunity to add intrigue and depth to any space. Often rendered in contrasting hues to draw the eye, and approached as an opportunity to display your finest decor, these luxurious spaces invite a touch of maximalism into even the most pared-back of spaces. Relish the opportunity to be bold, and push your personal style further than you might in other areas of your home.

And, for those who collect fine wines, you’re in luck — home cellars are also on the rise, offering a practical and impossibly chic storage solution for your prized bottles. From Fisher & Paykel’s integrated kitchen storage options to fully dedicated cellaring rooms, to walls in living spaces dedicated to brilliant bottles, the options are endless — and the impact exceptional. 

Get The Look
Edge House by Hare & Klein
Christofle Iriana Decanter from Studio of Tableware
Christofle Iriana Goblets from Studio of Tableware
Paderno Copper Cocktail Bundle from Studio of Tableware
Christofle Champagne Cooler from Studio of Tableware
Christofle Graphik Double Old Fashioned Tumblers from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Mamba Decanter from Studio of Tableware
Left: Bay House Apartment by Arent & Pyke. Right: 505 UP System by Molteni&C

Veritas Coupe Cocktail Pair from Studio of Tableware
Kingston Ice Bucket from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Laudon Whisky Tumbler from Studio of Tableware
Paderno Moscow Mule from Studio of Tableware
Dawn House by Mim Design featuring Standard sofa by Edra

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Lauded sandwich purveyors Pastrami & Rye have popped up in Ponsonby Central — here’s what you need to know

Ellerslie-based deli and sandwich house Pastrami & Rye — which has been on our radar since it opened in 2017 — is known for serving up truly drool-worthy sandwiches and complimentary American fare. Inspired by the bustling delis of New York City, Pastrami & Rye proudly cures its own meats and churns out homemade preserves and pickles, and now, those local to Ponsonby can get their satisfying fix, as founder Dave and his team open the doors to an expansive pop-up in Ponsonby Central.

Dave, who has spent the past two decades in hospitality between New Zealand and New York, conceived Pastrami & Rye as a quintessential American deli — a concept he fell in love with overseas, and felt no one here was yet doing justice in New Zealand.

A fundamental aspect of this — and the deli’s key point of difference — is the ‘from scratch’ approach. Pastrami & Rye butcher, cure, and smoke all of their own meats (including their award-winning namesake pastrami), as well as bake all of their own bread and pastries, and hand-craft the pickles and preserves, “We make the lot!” Dave tells me proudly.

The menu is immense, running the gamut from made-to-order hot sandwiches off the griddle with generous fillings to a host of tasty grab-and-go sandwiches, bagels, and pastries from the cabinet, as well as soups and salads, bacon butties, and beautiful (albiet very decadent) ‘sweets’ — from cherry pie to NY cheesecake.

The reuben deserves a special mention, as it’s likely the best take on the go-to classic you’ll find in the city. It’s brimming with house-made pastrami, sauerkraut and cheese on rye, served hot, with the option to add Russian dressing on the side. Simple, sublime.

The vibe of the space is lively and bustling, the food comes out fast, and you’re always guaranteed to leave satisfied. A true American-style deli in every sense — from the bottomless filter coffee to the food, made with love and respect for its origins, to the space itself — reminiscent of a typical corner deli, right down to the staff uniforms.

Opening hours:
Monday — Sunday, 7am until 3pm

instagram.com/pastramirye

Pastrami & Rye Ponsonby

Ponsonby Central
136/146 Ponsonby Road
Ponsonby
Auckland

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