This Belgian tableware brand’s design collaborations are a feast for the eyes

Whether you’re setting up for a regular weekday meal or hosting a lively dinner party, beautiful tableware always serves to improve the overall enjoyment of dining at home. When it comes to our dream line-up, we’re still chewing over who we’d invite but one thing’s for certain: we’ll be plating up with Serax’s exquisite tableware.

Founded in Belgium and available in New Zealand via ECC, Serax is a design label that creates beautiful products and living accessories in collaboration with the world’s best designers — Ann Demeulemeester, Piet Boon and Vincent Van Duysen to name a few. 

While the range includes everything from lighting to rugs and seating, it is particularly renowned for its dinnerware, glassware and cutlery. 

Ottolenghi’s Feast Collection.

Of particular abundance is the Feast collection, a collaboration with famed British-Israeli chef Yotam Ottolenghi. Painted by Italian artist Ivo Bisignano, whom Ottolenghi describes as “a good friend as well as a soul-mate for the creative process in all Ottolenghi graphics”, these plates are just as colourful as their designer’s recipes. The artful face-printed plate is sure to add a large helping of personality, as will the painterly artichoke and even just the abstractly dotted or striped renditions. 

Ann Demeulemeester’s Dé collection.

Should your aesthetic tastes run more minimal, Belgian designer Ann Demeulemeester’s Dé collection is fittingly graceful. Designed around the play of chiaroscuro — light and shadow — Demeulemeester’s famously monochromatic style has been translated exquisitely into tableware. The Plate Dé set features a dark painted border that mimics shadow, while the fine Ra bowls and plates sit on a pedestal to elevate the food that sits upon them.

Sergio Herman’s Surface collection.

The Surface collection by Sergio Herman is a series of stunning stoneware dishes that embrace an earthy yet elevated aesthetic. Perfect for those who like a hand-hued look that is also polished, Dutch chef and entrepreneur Herman has created an extensive range with variously-sized vessels for all occasions. Herman’s glassware for the brand is also exquisite.

By tapping into the design nous of these globally recognised talents, Serax succeeds in bringing joy to the every day — and making each meal taste even better.

Gastronomy

Win one of three exclusive experiences at Advieh Restaurant & Bar, including an overnight stay and flights — each worth up to $2,100
Catroux has opened the doors to a sleek new space, ushering in a new era for the beloved café
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries
The Farmhouse, Clevedon.

Explore more and dine at one of these worthy eateries outside of central Auckland this long weekend

As this Waitangi Day marks the last three day weekend in Auckland until April, you might be using the opportunity to sneak in one more trip out of town — or, you might be looking forward to enjoying some much-needed R&R at home. Should you be choosing the latter, we recommend breaking up that couch time with a trip to one of Auckland’s many great eateries.

We all have our go-to places that instantly spring to mind but, this weekend, why not venture to somewhere a little outside of the usual menu? With our highly worthy suggestions below, you won’t be disappointed.

Vondel; Akarana Eatery.

Akarana Eatery, Okahu Bay
Sunshine or no, Akarana Eatery is still a great spot to spend a few delicious hours with the family. Open until 3pm on Waitangi Day, the Nic Watt-owned venue offers a relaxed menu to cater to any inclination — from tasty cabinet bites, should a cup of tea and a slice of cake be what you’re craving, to more substantial dishes like the famous lamb shank pie.

Vondel, Devonport
With a philosophy that everyone should be able to eat well, no matter their culinary preferences, Vondel serves utterly delicious fare for carnivores and plant-based eaters alike. The North Shore-based restaurant is owner-operated, open for brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks, and focuses on seasonal fare from local suppliers.

Bucks Bistro; Grangers Tap House & Kitchen.

Bucks Bistro, Bucklands Beach
Gracing The Parade at Bucklands Beach, the ocean is always in view of Bucks Bistro no matter where you’re seated. On a good day, the sun streams in and when the weather is wilder, the vista is just as enthralling. Offering fresh, seasonal bistro food with seafood at its heart, Bucks Bistro is a gem that Eastern Beach locals love, and is worth travelling to.

Grangers Tap House & Kitchen, Half Moon Bay
Another great contender in the Eastern Beaches, park up at casual dining venue Grangers for a tantalising view over the marina and some equally tasty fare. With a wide-ranging menu that includes small plates, bistro-style dishes, burgers salads and more, everyone in your crew is sure to be catered for with aplomb.

Homeland; The Farmhouse.

Homeland, Westhaven Drive
Yes, it’s in the city, but Peter Gordon’s Homeland restaurant is just that bit separated from the rest of the waterfront eateries as to be a great under-the-radar dining option. For the Waitangi weekend, the eatery is closed on Sunday and Monday so if you’re keen to go, make the trip on Saturday. The venue is incredibly spacious with the doors and windows thrown open to the garden for ventilation, so it’s perfect for those wanting to feel sufficiently socially distanced.

The Farmhouse, Clevedon
With outdoor space galore and a perfectly picturesque setting, The Farmhouse is a major drawcard for a road trip out to Clevedon. Sourcing what they can from their organic garden on-site, the team creates beautifully fresh food each day. They also craft their own homemade ice cream using their fresh honey, herbs and fruit to create specialty flavours. For a wholly wholesome time, look no further than The Farmhouse.

The Tasting Shed, Kumeu
West is best, or so they say, and The Tasting Shed certainly lives up to this idiom. The setting itself is a treat, with several dining spaces to choose from — will you cosy up in the indoor Living Room area, or embrace indoor/outdoor flow in The Grotto? The private dining space is brilliant to book with a group too and, regardless, The Tasting Shed’s delicious menu will delight.

Galbraith’s Alehouse; The Muriwai Deli.

Galbraith’s Alehouse, Eden Terrace
Galbraith’s is an Eden Terrace institution, but the reason we’re telling you to go now is they have a spacious new beer garden. A mix between an English pub garden and a verdant reflection of New Zealand’s flora and fauna, the plant-filled garden space is enclosed back from the hustle and bustle of the area, perfect for whiling away a few hours with a brew this long weekend.

The Muriwai Deli, Muriwai Beach
Heading out to Muriwai for a beach day, or forest walk? Make sure you stop by The Muriwai Deli, a lovely new addition to the area. A collaboration between beloved food trucks Double Shot and Double Parked, the Deli has set up shop in the 99-year-old Muriwai Lodge and serves exquisite baked goods, great coffee and a succinct menu of kitchen dishes.

The Heke; Bracu Estate.

Bracu Estate, Bombay
Set among New Zealand’s largest privately-owned olive grove at the boundary of Bombay, Bracu Estate is a serene spot to dine, a 40-minute drive from central Auckland. The dishes that form Bracu’s à la carte, degustation and group set menus are impeccably prepared, for an elevated dining experience that will stay with you long after you leave the table.

The Heke, Waiheke Island
Having opened only recently over summer, The Heke has been welcomed by Onetangi as a must-visit destination. Owned by two Waiheke families, the venue is home to a restaurant as well as the award-winning Waiheke Whisky and Waiheke Brewing Co. Park up at one of the many outdoor tables (there are under-cover and open air options), and tuck into something from the wood-fired grill, including signature dishes like The Heke Milanesa — twice-crumbed beef schnitzel — or the Heke Smash Burger, and much more.

Gastronomy

Win one of three exclusive experiences at Advieh Restaurant & Bar, including an overnight stay and flights — each worth up to $2,100
Catroux has opened the doors to a sleek new space, ushering in a new era for the beloved café
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries
Image via Maybelline

6 easy ways to elevate your eye makeup when wearing a face mask

In the “before” (I’m referring to any time prior to March 2020), makeup trends would have usually been dictated by any of the following: fashion designers and runway shows, pop culture, YouTube, social media and beauty influencers.

Aside from perhaps runway shows, the aforementioned trendsetters are still thriving, however the last two years have also seen an overriding influence in the form of a new accessory most of us are now used to wearing regularly: face masks.

Covering up the bottom half of our faces has meant many of our lipstick collections are receiving less use than they once did, and it’s our eyes that are garnering attention as the feature to enhance — whether you want to make a statement with graphic liner, a swipe of colour, or simply softly accentuate those prized peepers.

Photo: @Katiejanehughes

Liquid Liner
From a classic and flattering cat-eye flick to more bold and experimental looks, a black liquid eyeliner is one hard-working piece of kit. The Calligraphy Eyeliner from Sothys has a matte, long-wearing finish, and the felt tip end is perfect for high precision looks.

Pencil Liner
If you’re after a more naturally defined look, a pencil or kohl liner will do the trick. While black is a classic, brown or even shades like eggplant and navy can offer a softer look. Sketch onto your upper lash line, or line your waterline for a more intense effect. New Zealand brand Kester Black has made a name for itself with its high performing eyeliners that are also vegan, cruelty-free and are made with natural ingredients. The Blackout Pencil is extremely popular and highly rated for its ability to glide on and stay put all day.

Fluffy Lashes
Sometimes, inky black, fluffy lashes are enough of a statement, and easy to swipe on when you want to feel put together. Clean makeup brand Ilia’s Limitless Lash Mascara is a favourite for its conditioning formula and dual-sided brush, allowing the user to wield the shorter side to curl and volumise and the longer side to build length and separate lashes.

Fluffy Brows
We can’t forget about our face framers, and the quest for fluffy, full-looking brows. With the focus on the upper part of our face, groomed brows are even more desirable, and Benefit is well-known for its excellent brow products. Try the 24-Hr Brow Setter Invisible Brow Gel for a long-lasting, natural look, or the Gimme Brow if you like a tint.

Hailey Beiber; Kate Bosworth.

Pastel Lids
A light wash of colour involves fool-proof application for even the novices among us. Pastels are back; try lilac, pale blue, green or even pink. Dior Beauty offers a variety of single shadow shades within its Diorshow Mono collection, perfect for changing your look to suit your mood.

Coloured Mascara
Relive the 90s with a coloured mascara moment. Sisley’s So Curl mascara in 3 Deep Blue delivers a dose of punchy pigment plus volume, length and curling — pair with a matching liquid liner if you’re feeling extra adventurous.

Wellbeing

Could magic mushrooms be a breakthrough salve for depression? Our Editor investigates
New & Noteworthy: Everything on our radar this week
Melatonin is soon to be sold over-the-counter in NZ, but what’s the deal with this so-called sleep supporter?

These utterly delicious iced coffee recipes are here to refresh your daily buzz this summer

For those seeking a caffeine hit in the warmer months, a refreshing iced coffee is hard to beat. And now, serving up a chilled brew has never been easier (or tastier), thanks to Nespresso’s range of iced coffee flavours. The ‘Barista Creations for Ice’ coffees have been crafted especially for preparation over ice, so whether you are an Americano fan or a latte lover, you can expect an exceptionally smooth drinking experience. 

This year, the range has been given a tropical twist with the new Limited Edition Coconut Flavour over Ice for Original and Limited Edition Tropical Coconut Flavour over Ice for Vertuo systems. Coffee lovers are seeking out more experimental and unique tastes with their caffeine hit — and these capsules are sure to hit the spot this summer. 

For those with more classic tastes, the original Freddo Delicato and Freddo Intenso iced coffee blends have returned — the former roasted lightly and ground specifically for delicate, bright and fruity notes, while the latter is for those who are looking for a deeper roasted taste.

Here, we share two delicious signature recipes, courtesy of Nespresso, to upgrade your iced coffee, whether you’re after an at-home happy hour or a morning pick-me-up.

Freddo Intenso Espresso Martini recipe for the Original system
Makes two

Ingredients:
8 ice cubes
60ml coffee liqueur
120ml vodka
20ml maple or sugar cane syrup
2 capsules of Freddo Intenso
Toasted coconut flakes to garnish

Method:
1. Add 8 ice cubes (240g) into a cocktail shaker.​
2. Add the coffee liqueur, vodka, and maple or sugar cane syrup.  ​
3. Extract the two capsules of Freddo Intenso directly into shaker. ​
4. Place lid on shaker and shake for 20-30 seconds or until ice forms on outside of shaker. ​
5. Strain between two martini glasses and garnish with toasted coconut flakes.

Tropical Coconut Flavour Iced Coffee recipe for the Vertuo system
Makes one

Ingredients:
Ice cubes
1 Limited Edition Tropical Coconut over Ice capsule
80ml milk of your choice

Method:
1. Add the ice cubes into your mug or glass.
2. Extract Tropical Coconut Flavour over Ice directly into the vessel.
3. Top with your choice of milk and stir to combine. 

Gastronomy

Win one of three exclusive experiences at Advieh Restaurant & Bar, including an overnight stay and flights — each worth up to $2,100
Catroux has opened the doors to a sleek new space, ushering in a new era for the beloved café
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries

Beloved food truck Carmel – Israeli Street Food has opened its first brick and mortar space in Eden Terrace

Known and loved for their welcoming hospitality and some of the best falafel to be found outside of the Middle East, Carmel – Israeli Street Food has put down roots in a tucked-away spot in Eden Terrace. 

Originally founded in 2017 by New Zealand-born, Israel-raised Carmel Davidovitch and her partner Tom, Carmel started life as a pop-up that found fans at every market it frequented. From their handmade, fantastically fluffy pita-breads to the fresh fillings they encase, Carmel’s moreish creations are of exceptional quality and full of flavour. The business is also popular for its catering services, including weddings, corporate events and private functions.

While they had initially never planned to open a standalone shop, the challenges of Covid-19 lockdowns and cancelled events had Carmel and Tom reconsidering. After a year of searching, they found the perfect space for their needs on France Street and commenced renovating.

Left: Image by Eric Jang.

They love being able to now welcome sit-down diners — in fact, as Carmel tells us, Carmel’s stuffed pitas are best enjoyed as soon as they arrive from the hands that prepared them, although people do often like to take them away to eat in the nearby park as well.

The menu changes seasonally to keep things interesting. However, staples like the falafel are always on offer. Currently, there’s a selection that includes the Cheeky Chicken Pita — comprising marinated chicken with tomato, greens, labneh cheese and tzatziki sauce. The Crispy Falafel Pita is paired with tomato, sauerkraut, hummus, pickled cucumbers and tahini sauce, while the Crunchy Chicken Challah features chicken schnitzel with labneh, veges, capsicum relish and eggplant.

Image: Eric Jang.

There’s also a quinoa tabbouleh salad dressed with lemon and garlic and vinaigrette, which can be ordered with either falafel or chicken and tahini sauce.

During lockdown, Carmel started making to-order Challah bread and pitas, plus cakes and other baked goods, which they still offer for pick up every Friday, via website order.

If you’d like to pay them a visit (and why wouldn’t you?) a hot tip is to plan your trip for outside typical peak hours. Carmel’s fare has become so in-demand, there are often queues at 11:30am to 12:30pm, and at around 6pm. 

Carmel’s Rugelach. Left image by Eric Jang.

Carmel’s original impetus for creating Carmel – Israeli Street Food was missing the taste of the land she had grown up in, after coming back to New Zealand, and wanting to introduce it to Kiwis. With such love and care in every bite, it’s no wonder these pitas are so popular.

Opening hours:
Thursday: 9am — 2:30pm
Friday and Saturday: 9am — 2:30pm, then 5pm — 8pm
Closed Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday

Carmel – Israeli Street Food

67B France Street,
Eden Terrace

Gastronomy

Win one of three exclusive experiences at Advieh Restaurant & Bar, including an overnight stay and flights — each worth up to $2,100
Catroux has opened the doors to a sleek new space, ushering in a new era for the beloved café
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries

Where to wine and dine your Valentine this February the 14th

A surefire way to show that you care this Valentine’s Day is treating your significant other to a night out at one of the city’s most romantic restaurants. With tables filling up fast, these are the elegant eateries putting on a set menu to set hearts racing this February 14th.

Cibo; Sid at the French Cafe.

Cibo
Nestled away in an old chocolate factory in Parnell, Cibo is an intimate space to dine with your loved one. This year, Head Chef Kate Fay has constructed a sumptuous five-course degustation, which includes a glass of Taittinger Cuvée Prestige on arrival. Once you’ve toasted to you two, enjoy Chatham Island crayfish and West Coast whitebait; duck on a charred corn salad; salmon with squid, avocado and gin; a lamb rack and rump; and a red velvet and raspberry dessert to finish.

Sid at the French Cafe
With a legacy like no other, the French Cafe is an especially special spot to spoil your loved one this Valentine’s Day. This time around, the team is offering a five-course tasting menu with snacks to start and a complimentary glass of Champagne, or a non-alcoholic cocktail, on arrival. While this special menu is yet to be published, trusting the chef here is a true act of appreciation.

Onemata; Andiamo.

Park Hyatt Auckland
On the water’s edge, Park Hyatt’s Onemata restaurant creates a feast for all the senses. This Valentine’s Day, the team is serving up a decadent five-course dinner, including natural oysters, a Curious Croppers Caprese salad, and a fresh market fish as well as a succulent lamb rump dish. The set menu includes a glass of Billecart-Salmon Brut Champagne on arrival. Then, if you’re after an intimate nightcap, Captain’s Bar is also setting the mood. Bar Manager and mixology extraordinaire, Ezequiel Marquez, has created a couple of bespoke Valentine’s cocktails for the occasion.

Andiamo
Designed with a romantic experience in mind, Andiamo’s three-course set menu includes delicious summer dishes to indulge in — including the new kingfish crudo with Central Otago stone fruits, and a succulent Wagyu rump cap with salsa rossa, Ortiz anchovy and grilled confit potatoes. To mark the occasion, there is a complimentary glass of Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut on arrival, along with a special gift from the kitchen.

Bar Magda; Ostro.

Bar Magda
The more lovers, the merrier at Bar Magda, with its special Magda Valentine set menu, available for a party of two to ten from the 11th to the 20th of February. The three-course shared menu showcases seasonal summer dishes and includes a decadent dessert — such as a ‘Fiji dark chocolate’ marquise with a delicate potato mille feuille. Each couple will be able to choose a bottle of wine from a curated list, while there are also many sensual cocktails to win over your heart.

Ostro
No strangers to special occasions, the team at Ostro has put together a comprehensive menu for the most romantic day of the year. The set menu, with spectacular views of the harbour, includes the likes of South Island Wagyu tartare and long line snapper, with the option to add the establishment’s stand-out seafood platters and aphrodisiac oysters. If you’d rather keep things private, Ostro will be delivering a Beef Wellington for two, plus petit fours, to your door this Valentine’s Day, between 12 and 5pm. It doesn’t get much more personal, and precious, than this.

Paris Butter; Azabu.

Paris Butter
The buttery-soft booths at Paris Butter sure lend themselves to a coupled-up dining experience. As part of cupid’s yearly soiree, the charming and creative restaurant is offering a five-course menu, filled to the brim with good food and fine Champagne.

Azabu Ponsonby
The atmosphere at Azabu Ponsonby is second to none, so why not take your main squeeze here for its mouthwatering Omakase menu? Chef Yukio Ozeki has created an exceptional experience — from amuse-bouche tuna ceviche to special lamb chuleta and Nikkei steak. Each set menu includes a complimentary flute of Veuve Clicquot, a pour of Asahi Super Dry on tap, or one of the house’s favourite cocktails for two. It’s set to be a wonderful evening for all.

Faraday’s Bar; Ebisu.

Faraday’s Bar
When it comes to intimate dining experiences, it doesn’t get more bespoke than Faraday’s Bar. Opening especially for Sunday the 13th and Monday the 14th of February (as well as Saturday the 12th), the boutique bar has coupled Krug Grande Cuvée and caviar for two. Elegant and refined, with diverse yet harmoniously full flavours, the half bottle of Krug is perfect for sharing as you enjoy 15g of Sturia Vintage Caviar. Limited spaces are available — email [email protected] or call 09 217 1017 to secure your spot.

Esther at QT Auckland
The tables are set to swoon at Esther, where a Mediterranean culinary adventure awaits. The lust-worthy three-course set menu features Esther’s most darling dishes. Begin with fresh oysters in Champagne mignonette and Manganui Kingfish crudo with pomegranate explosions, escorted by the restaurant’s beloved wood-fired puff bread. Meanwhile for mains, there will be its one-and-only pistachio herbed lamb rack. To finish, you’ll find the delightful crêpe Suzette modern, with orange Grand Marnier sauce and vanilla bean gelato. There will be two dinner sittings, the first from 5 to 8pm, and the second from 8 to late.

Ebisu
Treat your loved one, and yourself, to a tasting menu of the best of Ebisu, complemented with a flute of Veuve Clicquot and the option to add a premium sake match. From its fresh tuna and beef tataki to its pan-seared Glory Bay Salmon and crayfish dumping (with a vegetarian menu available on request), this tempting menu is sure to show your date a good time.

NSP; Kingi.

NSP
Dine in the whimsical courtyard of NSP and enjoy an a la carte service with Valentine’s Specials including cioppino with fennel and saffron, and a selection of seafood with crayfish, prawns, green lipped mussels, tuatuas and John Dory. They don’t call this place ‘Non Solo Pizza’ for nothing… For those who would rather settle in from the comfort of their own home, there will be an aperitivo dinner and drinks selection available for takeaway soon.

Kingi
There’s a lot to love about Kingi this Valentine’s Day. The sustainably-minded Britomart eatery has dreamed up a three-course menu, including a sharing antipasti platter and your choice of a wood-roasted eggplant dish, seafood pappardelle, or pan-roasted snapper. For the most romantic course of all — dessert — there’s perfected profiteroles with rum and raisin ice cream and chocolate.

Gastronomy

Win one of three exclusive experiences at Advieh Restaurant & Bar, including an overnight stay and flights — each worth up to $2,100
Catroux has opened the doors to a sleek new space, ushering in a new era for the beloved café
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries

Create your own fairy tale world with these beautifully baroque Murano glass mirrors

Magic Mirror on the wall, who is the fairest one of all? When it comes to Arte Veneziana’s enchanting looking glasses, the real beauty is reflected in the maximalist Murano frames of its Fairy Tale capsule.

In building a magical baroque world to lose yourself in, the collection’s Product Designer Leo De Carlo has captured the mesmerisingly artistic and absurd, in hyper-decorative pieces made to be a showpiece in any environment. 

Clockwise from top left: The Frog Prince, The Little Mermaid, Sleeping Beauty.

On show at Sarsfield Brooke, three different Fairy Tale designs tell their dazzling stories within a crest structure of fir wood and decorative Murano glass details. The verdant ‘Frog Prince’ comprises mirrors across three levels of engraved Venetian glass. Varnished with acid green and finished with an antiqued mirrored effect, it is sure to entrance.

The ‘Little Mermaid’ style has many of these essential elements, with cerulean blue varnish and crystal-blue Murano. The most delicate of all, the ‘Sleeping Beauty’ has two levels of rosy reds and pinks, the colour of a princess’ nightgown.

Hailing from Venice, De Carlo has his own kind of fairy tale vocation. He studied in the design city of Milan and worked for Philippe Starck in the City of Love, Paris, before returning to his floating home. This unique collaboration captures the romance of his career — elegantly crafted by the Murano glass oracle that is Arte Veneziana.

Design

Step inside a minimalist masterpiece by Kim Lambert Design
Mason Feehan of Baya shares his design-led photo diary from Copenhagen’s 3 Days of Design
Six chic chairs to instantly elevate your bedroom

Wardrobe update: Workshop welcomes a new drop from eternally cool Swedish brand Acne Studios

While we’re currently lapping up the sparkling days of late summer, you won’t find us too deeply in (sartorial) mourning once more of a chill sets in. This is thanks to the cosy staples from Acne Studios that have just arrived at Workshop, ready to inject a hit of bright optimism into any season.

Within the latest outing from the signature Face collection, unisex flannel and stripes are rendered in cheery shades, ready for the daring to clash at will. Acne also worked with the Oslo-based Munch Museum on a selection of prints featuring artworks by famed Norwegian painter Edvard Munch, in “an homage to Scandinavian art”.

Celebrated artworks like ‘The Scream’, ‘Lovers in the Waves’ and ‘Madonna’ have made their way from the frame onto garments, and can now be donned on shirts, sweaters, bags and more.

Tailoring is always another of Acne’s strong suits, and the classic fit suit jacket is a forever staple. Double-breasted with peak lapels, it sits effortlessly with either slim tailored trousers or a more fashion-forward pair like Acne’s high-rise suit trousers. Cut from the same wool-blend suiting, the latter have a kick-flare silhouette and pin-stitched centre front creases.

Highly covetable accessories are, as usual, a key part of Acne’s new-season offering, with scarves, jewellery, hats and bags forming the perfect finishing touches.

Trust this Scandinavian fashion favourite to have thought of everything one could need for a bona fide closet refresh.

Coveted

Forget minimalism and shine bright in Swarovski’s striking crystals
New & Noteworthy: Everything on our radar this week
Couture, Cameras, Cameos: The Unmissable Moments and Front Row Power Players of Couture Fall 2025

Walk through your own personalised store wardrobe with Muse’s private shopping and styling service

Step inside Muse’s private styling room, above the beautiful Ponsonby boutique, and you will find a shopping sanctuary. Designed with Isabelle Tolich and Alisa Allison Interiors, the space is well-dressed for the occasion, with a mesmerising painting by Nick Herd above a custom bouclé sofa and Twister side table by Sophie Davies. But what will really catch your eye is the pick of new season pieces as you peruse the rack.

Whether you attend a one-on-one session or share with a friend, your personal shopper consults ahead of your appointment. With a clear idea of your personal style requirements, they curate a line-up of clothes that suit your taste — while being in step with the season. For summer, this includes refined resort collections and hints of 70s-nostalgia, the latter coming through in the form of bold prints and colours, co-ordinate sets, floaty kaftans and crisp cotton poplins.

The bespoke experience is also a chance to preview new collections — complimentary Champagne in-hand — before they reach the shop floor. Currently, this includes the vibrant vintage patterns of Milan-based label La Double J, eclectic and floral designs from Australian label Alemais, chic and comfortable footwear from Proenza Schouler, and sparkly and slimline swimsuits from Oséree.

While each experienced stylist has their own unique flair, they draw on Muse’s 25-year heritage to ensure you receive the most luxurious and specially tailored advice. Effortless elegance is always paramount — whether you’re here for a seasonal update, a special event piece, or a re-stock of staples. Aiming to help clients fill much-needed gaps in their wardrobes, Muse welcomes you to bring along problem pieces, to work out exactly what you can wear with them.

The experience ensures you find garments that you will hold dear — while learning some style secrets along the way.

Coveted

Forget minimalism and shine bright in Swarovski’s striking crystals
New & Noteworthy: Everything on our radar this week
Couture, Cameras, Cameos: The Unmissable Moments and Front Row Power Players of Couture Fall 2025

It’s hip to be square at Auckland’s new Detroit-style deep dish pizza joint

The pizza market is burgeoning in Auckland, as outposts have spun the most delicious pies into a kind of culinary art form. Next to get a slice of the perfected pizza genre is Onehunga, with the opening of Slabs Pizza.

As the name suggests, the neighbourhood eatery serves deep-dish squares, Detroit-style. Cooked in traditional blue steel pans, the pizzas are slow to rise. Holding high hydration in the dough while it’s in the pizza oven results in a soft, fluffy interior — almost like focaccia — and a super crispy base. 

Right: Pepperoni Pizza.

Whether you grab a full or half size slab, each is made to order. Toppings are lavishly layered on top, with sauce often going on — not before — but after most for a truly sensational mouthful. The O.G Square treats us to the classic red sauce, Grana Padano cheese and basil. The Pepperoni takes things up a notch with the addition of tabasco and guindilla peppers. For vegetarians, the Mushroom option, with ricotta, truffle, pecorino and parsley, is a sell-out — and there is also a vegan option with all the trimmings.

Thanks to the cooking method, the crusts of each slice have a crave-worthy caramelised cheese crust. These are given the attention they deserve with additional dips created specifically for the outer edges, including ranch, red and BBQ sauce.

From left: Italian Sausage Pizza; BBQ Chicken Pizza.

For those after a little more, there is a trifecta of sides — garlic bread with all the cheese, garlic butter and red sauce; fries with house seasoning and roasted garlic aioli; and wings with BBQ and ranch sauce.

While we think it’s worth taking a seat at the purple-hued pizzeria for the all-consuming smell of freshly baked pizza, Slabs has also developed an online ordering system to make it easy to pick up takeaway orders as soon as they come out of the oven. 

Before Slabs, owner Simon Murphy started Umu in Kingsland, which specialises in pizza with a sourdough base that took ten years to develop, and the cultivation of an ancient starter. This new venture has the same level of care. Spotlighting only six signature flavours, and a drinks menu of ice-cold soft drink cans, the focus is on curation and quality before all else. 

Opening hours
Wednesday to Saturday: 12 — 9pm

Slabs Pizza
178 Onehunga Mall
Onehunga, Auckland

www.slabspizza.co.nz

Gastronomy

Win one of three exclusive experiences at Advieh Restaurant & Bar, including an overnight stay and flights — each worth up to $2,100
Catroux has opened the doors to a sleek new space, ushering in a new era for the beloved café
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries