There is a new wave of Kiwi men who want more from their wardrobes. Having transcended the tired combination of jeans-and-a-T-shirt, they instead, want to curate a collection that is purposeful, creatively-inspiring and unique to their individual styles. Accordingly, there has been a growing number of new, locally-designed menswear labels springing up to offer guys the kinds of pieces they want, these are are a few of our favourites.
Fantl Sport Golf wear is (despite being a somewhat niche market) ripe for a reimagining. Which is exactly what this dynamic new label is doing. Brothers Dan and Ezra Fantl create collections that are sleek and practical and able to be worn on and off the golf course. This new brand is delivering a much-needed element of ‘cool’ to a sport whose demographic seems to be trending younger every year.
Inward Goods Ltd
Inward Goods Ltd Born from the idea that to be truly authentic, one must look within, Inward Goods creates clothes that are timeless, pragmatic and carefully realised. Designed and produced in Auckland (via a process that supports a number of other local businesses) every piece is painstakingly made-to-order, which means that collections are selective and refined.
Thom Morison
Thom Morison Creating high-quality menswear with a classical, minimalist bent, Thom Morison not only makes great clothes but is another proponent of slow fashion. In fact, Morison himself works as the pattern maker in his Great North Road studio, sampling every piece in store as he fastidiously builds his collections — all handmade by local ateliers.
Wynn Hamlyn Menswear
Wynn Hamlyn Menswear Off the back of opening his first retail store in Commercial Bay, local designer Wynn Hamlyn is capitalising on his reputation for creating refined, quietly-confident womenswear to launch his first men’s collection, and our wardrobes are all the better for it. With clever knitwear, precise (but relaxed) tailoring and soft, sensual fabrics, this debut capsule heroes pieces that are wearable but unique, and will resonate with guys who care about how they dress but still like to have fun.
I never really thought of myself as an SUV driver. But after spending the last three years with an extremely small car (a relic of the 90s), the thought of investing in something bigger was, I have to say, appealing.
In the spirit of trying new things (and after seeking recommendations from a few people I trusted) I decided to dip my toe into the SUV pond by taking Jaguar’s new 2021 F-PACE for a spin — only to discover that I had, in fact, been an SUV driver all along. All I needed was the right car.
I have to preface my experience with a caveat. The new Jaguar F-PACE is a luxury SUV, which puts it firmly at the higher end of the market. Basically, this car combines the size, comfort and versatility of an SUV with the sleek elegance of a sports car, which gives it massive appeal from the outset.
To set the scene, the exact model of F-PACE I was testing was the P400 R-Dynamic HSE in Yulong White with slick, black wheels. It was high-spec and super powerful, and I was drawn in from the second I was handed the keys.
Boasting a recently enhanced exterior, my 2021 F-PACE carried some serious presence on the road. With its wide front grill, aerodynamically-enhanced front and rear bumpers and super-slim LED head and tail lights, this car was simultaneously streamlined and solid with sophisticated good looks that offered an early indication of what I could expect on the inside.
Sure enough, the F-PACE’s interior lived up to the hype and then some. Sitting in the driver’s seat, I couldn’t remember having ever been in a car that felt safe, luxurious and sporty, all at the same time. And while I was conscious of people’s heads turning as I passed them on the road, I was also distinctly aware of how cocooned and private I felt in the F-PACE’s cabin.
Inside, it seemed like Jaguar had spared no expense in ensuring the 2021’s fit-out left nothing to chance. Sumptuous, simple materials that felt well-made and long-lasting, were rendered in an elegant, monochromatic palette which kept me comfortable but ensured that my primary focus remained on what was important — the drive. And what a drive it was.
Thanks to the F-PACE’s new Drive Selector, I was able to quickly switch the car between zippy modes like ‘dynamic’ and smooth modes like ‘comfort’, all the while enjoying the peace and quiet that came with the car’s Active Noise Cancellation — an innovative system that worked to reduce noise pollution from outside the cabin. That said, I quickly learned not to be fooled by the F-PACE’s comfortable, quiet facade. Once I decided to give this car a little bit of pace, it sprung into action swiftly, drawing on its sporty heritage to morph into something that felt delightfully fun and quick off the mark — certainly not what I expected to find in an SUV.
All of that aside, what really clinched it for me was the F-PACE’s practicality and efficiency. For someone who uses her car to drive to work, run errands that often involve packing clothing bags and boxes into the boot and soon, to transport a baby from A to Z, the F-PACE seemed to tick all the boxes. With its suite of new technology, including Jaguar’s latest PIVI Pro infotainment on an 11.4-inch HD touch screen, voice-activated control, a wireless charging port for my phone and a remote app that allowed me to check up on the car’s temperature and fuel levels, the F-PACE’s systems were easy to decipher and to communicate with. Everything felt integrated in a very simple, uncomplicated way, which, when you’ve got other things on your mind, is a godsend. Other features I loved included the F-PACE’s keyless entry (very handy with frequently-full hands), and its mammoth boot with a 650-litre capacity. My favourite feature, however, had to be the F-PACE’s super-clear 360-degree, 3D surround camera, which made manoeuvring into my narrow driveway a breeze and parallel parking virtually curb-proof. Add to the mix the fact that the F-PACE boasts a Five Star Euro NCAP safety rating (making it one of the safest cars in the market) and I was honestly left wondering if it had any faults at all.
Just like that, I was a convert, inducted into the easy, luxurious lifestyle that came with driving an SUV like this. And while I might have only had a few days with the new Jaguar F-PACE, there was something that stayed with me, even after the car was gone — the realisation that I would probably struggle to find anything else that lived up to my first experience.
It’s clear the Cordis was inspired by the natural beauty of New Zealand in conceiving its new bar space, Our Land Is Alive. Walking in, we were immediately struck by the calm, contemporary palette of natural tones and textures, anchored by an ethereal cloud mural (painted by local artist Ross Lewis) spreading out across the ceiling. In fact, small nods to New Zealand are everywhere, from a bar top made from rescued Kauri to the bar front crafted from Timaru bluestone, to the native plants and artistic menu design, created by local illustrator Erin Forsyth.
Find a range of expertly made cocktails.
Beyond the space itself, Our Land Is Alive captures the essence of New Zealand in its curated food and drinks that shine a light on local. Award-winning local wines and craft beers meet a range of Kiwi-made spirits that have been expertly mixed with unique New Zealand flavours and ingredients to offer a variety of refreshing libations. We only had to glance at the ‘White Cloud,’ for example, a smokey concoction made with Thomson Two-Tone whiskey, or the ‘Karangahape Side,’ crafted with Lighthouse gin, lime juice, cucumber and fresh mint, to know that a drink here would be a delicious affair.
Similarly, the food offering draws on the richness of New Zealand’s culinary landscape to provide classic bar snacks with a twist. Thanks to the vision of Cordis’ Executive Chef, Volker Marecek, Our Land Alive’s menu is a tasty mix of locally-sourced ingredients where charcuterie and cheese boards sit alongside the likes of free range lamb ribs and Cloudy Bay clams. As perfect for a quick, easy bite as it is for something more substantial.
The bar front is crafted from Timaru bluestone.
Ultimately, Our Land Alive is just about offering simple, straightforward Kiwi hospitality. Having cultivated an environment that is relaxed and sophisticated but (thanks to its sprawling outdoor area and generous space) is also conducive to a good time, this new, local gem is set to be our go-to next time we’re looking for somewhere to whet our whistles.
In an effort to tackle our “make-take-waste” culture, a group of consciously-minded local brands have banded together to draw attention to the vital need for action with Auckland’s inaugural refill event.
Taking place this Friday, 26th of March, and organised by Ecostore, along with Lewis Road Creamery, Chia Sisters, Again Again, Kōkako, The Food Truck Collective and Batchwell, the event will see each business set up in Britomart’s Takutai Square from 11AM until 2:30PM.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own containers for special offers from each business — from a free Kōkako coffee if you bring your own reusable cup, to free Ecostore refills with purchase of a $3 limited edition aluminium refill bottle. The Food Truck Collective will also be providing tasty eats by Double Dutch Fries, Grownup Donuts, and more.
“Waste is a very large problem that can’t be fixed with just one solution, so businesses need to have many different options,” wrote representatives from the brands in an article for Stuff. With this refill event, they are aiming to reduce plastic waste by educating others about the incredibly important circular economy, through reuse and refilling. “We want to showcase how a business can take transformative action and inspire system-wide change.”
The circular economy is the future of effective waste management, better even than chucking our used packaging and items in the recycling bin, and ensuring they stay out of landfill by reusing and repurposing. Each year, says the group, 295 million single-use cups are sent to landfill in Aotearoa, all producing methane as they degrade.
While reuse systems are new and still take some working out, they are our best hope for combatting our emissions and staying true to our clean, green reputation. So, why not start by grabbing some of your containers from home, and heading down to Britomart on your lunch break, where these inspiring businesses will give you all the incentive you need to kick off some great new habits.
Refill Event by Ecostore Friday, 26th March 11AM — 2:30PM Takutai Square, Britomart
Despite myriad challenges over the past year, the local culinary industry has continued to evolve and expand with all the flair and ingenuity we have come to expect from our world-class chefs and eateries. Over 40 new restaurants, bars and cafes opened in 2020 in Auckland alone, jostling to find their place among an already well established scene.
While overarching shifts within the plethora of varied offerings can be tricky to pinpoint, we’ve spotted some interesting trends that have cropped up across the board. From normcore eating to Spanish flavours, here are the food trends taking 2021 by the taste buds.
Take Comfort We’re collectively craving sustenance that acts like a soothing balm to the soul and the belly, and it’s no wonder given the last year. Remember normcore? The term was widely popularised in 2013 by trend-forecasting agency K-Hole as fashion shorthand for ‘finding liberation in being nothing special’. The concept crept gently into gastronomy as well, and we’re seeing it as an apt term to describe the renewed appetite for humble dishes done well, a la Hotel Ponsonby’s scotch egg, or the creamed corn toastie from Culprit.
Left to right: Meatball with tare and yolk from Omni, Black tiger prawns from Nook and the Scampi corndogs from Ahi.
Stick It There’s a specific joy that comes from gnawing a skewer fresh off the grill. It’s hot and immediate, and anything we can eat with our hands is good by us. Yakitori is not a new concept to this city, but it has been brought once more to the fore by eateries like Omni and Nook. At the former, co-owned by chef John Yip who honed his grill skills at Yardbird in Hong Kong, don’t miss the meatball with tare and yolk for dipping, and at St Kevins Arcade spot Nook (opened by the Lowbrow duo) why not branch out with the chicken hearts or black tiger prawns? Speaking of things on sticks, it’d be remiss of us not to mention one of our other favourite dishes in this category: Ahi’s scampi corndogs and that addictive dipping sauce.
Left: Pāua from Amisfield Restaurant. Right: Kingfish and apples from The Lodge Bar & Dining.
Homeward Bound Just what is defined as New Zealand cuisine? This is the question several local chefs have been attempting to answer with increasing fervour. Last year, some of our most revered and established culinary heavyweights opened new restaurants in Auckland, but instead of taking inspiration from Europe or Asia, many are aiming to hone in on Aotearoa’s food legacy.
From Matt Lambert’s Lodge Bar & Dining, Peter Gordon’s Homeland eatery and cooking school, to Mr Morris helmed by Michael Meredith, and Ben Bayly’s Ahi restaurant, these chefs are highlighting native ingredients, indigenous cooking techniques and practises like foraging, accelerating the exploration of our gastronomical story. The likes of Monique Fiso of Wellington restaurant Hiakai, and Vaughan Mabee of Queenstown’s Amisfield have been tuned into this sensibility for some time now, but it’s exciting to see more chefs crafting the narrative even further in 2021.
Sustainable Seafood Gone are the days when a fillet of snapper was the only fish you’d find on a menu. Any restaurant worth its salt is now prioritising suppliers that use more sustainable fishing practises in an effort to prevent the already severely depleted ocean from being overfished. This includes crafting dishes that use other parts of the fish, not just the fillet, and making more use of different types of seafood altogether.
Owned by Nate Smith, Gravity Fishing is an industry leader when it comes to fishing sustainably. The Invercargill-based company started as a commercial fishery 10 years ago, and now supplies restaurants country-wide, including The Lodge Bar & Dining, Tantalus Estate and Paris Butter in Auckland. It has reverted its methods to only using hook and line — and only fishing what quantities chefs have pre-ordered. This prevents excess fish from being taken from the ocean, and as Smith supplies whole fish rather than pre-filleted, he encourages restaurants to utilise the entire animal. Native delicacies like kina that previously would have been largely exported have also found renewed favour on local menus, joining the likes of blue cod, kingfish and albacore tuna.
Left: Charcoal grilled Wairarapa oyster mushrooms with stinging nettle sour cream from Euro. Right: Steamed dumplings from East
Garden Variety In the not-too-distant past, any non-carnivore would be faced with a severely limited selection of plant-based dishes when dining out. This couldn’t be further from the truth now, as the tired mushroom risotto is shelved in favour of a far more varied offering of vegan and vegetarian food than ever before — and it’s only increasing. Whether adopted for health, ethical or environmental reasons, the ever-growing population of plant-based eaters is spurring eateries to catch up, with ample space on their menus dedicated to dishes that don’t include meat.
One of our recent favourites is Euro’s charcoal grilled Wairarapa oyster mushroom dish with stinging nettle and sour cream (banishing memories of the aforementioned risotto for good), and we’re impressed by innovative new modern Asian eatery East, that’s not only vegetarian but boasts a menu that is 75 percent vegan.
Left: Octopus with saffron whipped potato and paprika crumb from Candela. Right: Rabbit empanada from Alma.
A Taste of Spain For some time now the preponderance of Italian-inspired eateries in this town has been steadily climbing towards what is surely a saturation point, so it seems only natural that the focus should shift to another European city with an equally rich cuisine and history. Spanish flavours have arguably not yet been given their full day in the sun, but a series of new openings are promising to change this.
Karangahape Road newcomer Candela harnesses the irreverent spirit of late night Spanish tapas bars, offering small plates that celebrate both Spanish flavours and New Zealand produce, while Alma is the latest addition to the Hip Group family, heading further south to hone in on Andalusian cuisine. Park Hyatt Auckland’s Captain’s Bar also offers Spanish-inspired bites that pair nicely with its impressive selection of rum, like empanadas and spicy chorizo patatas bravas.
Left: Pāua Risotto, miso butter, shiitake mushroom, onsen egg from Onemata Restaurant. Right: Creamed Chatham Islands pāua on toast from Homeland.
Pāua Power While pāua fritters have long been a beloved fish ‘n’ chip shop favourite, a spate of recently-opened restaurants are elevating the iconic mollusc in new ways that celebrate its unique flavour and texture. Find an entrée of pāua with okra, corn and rice gnocchi at Michael Meredith’s eatery Mr Morris, while at Park Hyatt Auckland’s Onemata restaurant it is speckled through an umami risotto, swirling with shiitake mushrooms, miso butter and finished with an onsen egg. Peter Gordon’s Homeland dining room showcases pāua both shaved with fennel and lime, and creamed on toast, and at Ahi find it on the snack menu, fittingly cooked using the hangi method and paired with smoked kahawai and sour cream.
Heisenberg's Equation, 2020, cast acrylic edition of 1 + AP, 500mm x 1200mm
Twofold, 2020, cast acrylic, edition of 3, 300mm x 600mm
From left: Square Circle Square (green), 2020, cast acrylic, edition of 3, 600mm x 600mm x 45mm;Circle in Red, 2020, cast acrylic, edition of 3, 400mm x 400mm
A current exhibition from light and installation-based artist Kāryn Taylor displays pleasingly tonal contours of layered and spliced geometric shapes, to highly impactful effect. Showing at Sanderson Contemporary, the exhibition is named An Implicate Order, and hinges on a concept by the late theoretical physicist David Bohm. He stated that there is a deeper and more fundamental order of reality (the implicate order), which transcends humans’ perceived order of reality, or the “explicate order”.
Taylor’s practice is often informed by concepts like this. Through manipulating light, form and shadow, and challenging the viewer’s perception, she investigates metaphysics, regarding the existence and nature of things, and quantum physics, the behaviour of matter and energy.
Likening geometry to a language, Taylor aims to communicate these complicated, sometimes illogical-seeming ideas through what, on the surface, might be viewed as relatively simplistic forms. They are, however, always extremely precise — never rough or wobbly. Many of the lines themselves appear to glow, resulting in an almost three-dimensional effect. Complex concepts aside, Taylor’s use of colour is sublime, and the mesmerising quality of her works will have you visually tracing their forms in a new way with every change of angle.
While many of us use the way we dress to express the various moods and movements of our day-to-day lives, this reflection of our multifaceted natures needn’t stop at clothing. Just as we select a particular outfit to suit a certain occasion, so too does fragrance have the ability to evoke different feelings, adding that elusive multi-dimensional element to any outing.
Endorsing firmly this concept of a ‘fragrance wardrobe’ is Tom Ford. The luxury fashion and beauty house’s scents are famed the world over for their heady, complex and concentrated quality. Some of the brands most iconic and outrageous scents include the addictive Oud Wood, intoxicating Bitter Peach, juicy Lost Cherry and unforgettable F*cking Fabulous.
Whether worn to imbue confidence and vitality on a first date, or to capture a golden sunset at an unforgettable party, here we explore four occasions and an enchanting Tom Ford fragrance for each.
A candlelit dinner: Oud Wood Mesmerising and exotic, Tom Ford’s pioneering Oud Wood scent makes for a sultry complement to an intimate meal, enhancing a moody and atmospheric setting. From the earthy and woody fragrance family, key notes of rare oud wood, rosewood and sandalwood combine with Eastern spices and amber for a rich, dark blend of sensuality.
A lavish lunch: Lost Cherry Another from the warm, spicy olfactory category, this undeniably feminine, juicy fragrance is an expression of contrast. Embracing a dichotomy of sweet and tart; bright and dark, Lost Cherry has key notes of black cherry and bitter almond oil, layered with a further concentration of liquor-laced cherry from griotte syrup. Turkish rose and jasmine sambac round off for an earthy depth, and notes of roasted tonka bean, Peru balsam, sandalwood, vetiver and cedar ensure this scent is anything but one-dimensional.
A first date: F*cking Fabulous Put your best foot forward with a scent that makes an instant statement. Spicy and warm, the name says it all, with its vibrant opening of clary sage and fresh lavender giving way to notes of bitter almond and vanilla-tinged tonka bean. Anchored with a texturally rich leather heart, this incredible fragrance will certainly have you leaving an impression.
A sunset soirée: Bitter Peach A fragrance for when the night ahead sparkles with possibility, Bitter Peach harnesses the intoxicating spirit of a full-flavoured fruit at its most ripe. Lusciously sweet, notes of heady Pêche de Vigne liqueur and Sicilian blood orange oil are lifted with spiciness from cardamom oil. Adding depth and complexity is the bitterness of heliotrope and floral, woody Davana oil, infused with rum absolute and cognac oil.
With the welcome news that the card with eye-catching allure and serious cachet is now available in New Zealand, we explore five reasons to consider the metal American Express Platinum Card.
1. Style Kudos Let’s face it, the allure of a shiny new metal Platinum American Express Card that has never been available in New Zealand before is bound to deliver serious style kudos to all those who carry it. This is one seriously impressive card, that’s sure to turn a few heads.
2. Receive 100,000 Bonus Points If you apply for the new metal Platinum Card® by 31 May 2021, are approved and spend $1,500 in the first 3 months, you automatically receive 100,000 Bonus Points. These Points can be redeemed for $500 worth of retail gift cards or $750 worth of Travel with American Express Travel Online, so you can experience more of New Zealand’s wonderful tourism offerings. New Card Members only. T&Cs apply.
3. Exclusive Dining Credits All Platinum Card Members receive irresistible opportunities to treat themselves. By spending $150 or more, in one transaction on the American Express Platinum Card at participating Dining Collection restaurants, Card Members receive a $150 credit. This includes 26 restaurants and features such revered eateries as Soul, Amano, Euro, Masu and Jervois Steak House. Valid up to two times a year. Exclusions and T&Cs apply.
4. $200 Travel Credit each year Whether it’s a weekend away, or a few weeks off, Platinum Card Members receive a $200 travel credit to spend on pre-paid airfares, car hire or hotels, when they book through American Express Travel Online or through Platinum Travel Service. T&Cs apply.
5. Earn 2 points per $1 spent As an extra enticing incentive Platinum Card Members can earn unlimited points that don’t expire. With an enviable 2 points per $1 spent on the Card.
Apply today for the new metal Platinum Card® by clicking here.
“I’ve always tried to do things that are different and beneficial for the industry,” says Richard Sigley. “I like to look for gaps in the market.” The seasoned restaurateur is talking about the exciting new venture he’s opened alongside his wife Paula. Named Sìso, the bar and restaurant is serving up contemporary Mediterranean fare in the heart of Remuera.
Located in the space previously occupied by Banque, the arrival of Sìso has seen the sunny corner spot undergo a comprehensive makeover. The long space has been transformed into a dynamic and varied offering, and with capacity to hold over 200 people, it’s sure to appeal for all manner of occasions. “I’ve always liked this location. It’s a really good site, but it was tired,” says Sigley. Remuera isn’t exactly known for its enticing gastronomical offering, he says, so there’s plenty of room to start afresh.
Right: Roasted carrot hummus with coriander oil
While this project doesn’t fall under the Nourish Group umbrella (of which Sigley is the founder and owner), Gareth Stewart lent his expertise as consultant for the menu, which runs the gamut of Mediterranean flavours from Europe to the Middle East. Freshly-baked sourdough flatbreads kick off the offering, irresistible when dipped, piping hot, into roast garlic labneh with basil oil and pomegranate, or roasted carrot hummus with coriander oil, or perhaps taramasalata with smoked fish roe and lemon oil.
Small plates include the likes of market fish crudo with pickled chilli, cucumber and crème fraîche; spinach pie with goat feta and filo pastry; local octopus in a puttanesca-style sauce; and Hawke’s Bay lamb meatballs served with charred aubergine and toasted grains.
Left: Lamb shoulder with preserved lemon and garlic potatoes
While the menu does include Italian influences with pasta (fresh linguine with mushrooms) and burrata, overall the selection of dishes skews lighter and brighter. Various salads are wholesome yet still hearty additions, and within the larger plates, expect the likes of vine-wrapped market fish with lemon, chermoula and herb salad and organic chicken breast with orzo, lemon, basil, smoked paprika and chorizo. The lamb shoulder is sure to be a highlight for sharing, cut on the bone with preserved lemon and baby garlic potatoes.
The vibe of Sìso is smart casual, with its inviting, homely space and warm atmosphere. The brief was for it to feel like a ‘refuge from the slickness of life’, and it does indeed prompt a feeling of respite from the outside world. The Sigleys worked collaboratively with interior design studio CTRL Space to create plenty of intimate nooks and divide up the long space with archways, adding tall bar stools and tables for drinking occasions. The dining space at the rear has a lovely, cosy feel to it, with a fireplace that is sure to have people lingering comfortably during the winter months.
Experienced front of house manager Oskar Zlatarevic is running the floor (many will probably remember him from Euro), and it’s a charming full circle moment for him, as Banque was where he started his hospitality career 15 years ago.
Right: Organic chicken breast with orzo, lemon, basil, smoked paprika and chorizo
While it’s undoubtedly tough out there due to the pandemic, Sigley says he’s hopeful and optimistic that Sìso is adding some long-awaited culinary prowess for Remuera locals. He raises the valid point that, with many people still working from home, neighbourhood dining establishments are sure to become more and more important — and popular.
“I think hospitality can help some areas grow if you get it right,” he says. “Similar to Andiamo, which changed the landscape a little for Herne Bay — if I can replicate that with this offering, I’ll be a happy camper.” With such an excellent menu, considered interior and prime location, anyone can see Sìso has all the right elements to be a roaring success.
Opening hours: Monday and Tuesday: 4pm — late Wednesday to Sunday: 12pm — late
A one-size-fits-all approach to beauty has long been outdated, which makes perfect sense, given we all have different concerns, goals and preferences. This considered, individualised philosophy is what underpins the Sothys Bespoke Facial, a luxurious one hour and fifteen minute treatment designed to offer each recipient exactly the kind of attention their skin needs.
From the moment of arrival, donning a plush robe and slippers, to the in-depth consultation and facial itself, each touchpoint of this treatment is considered for both utmost relaxation, and effectiveness. Taking into account my concerns of slight oiliness and congestion, my therapist Jenny Natividad administered a combination of products to address them, and restore moisture while preserving my skin’s youthfulness.
Starting with the Sothys Comfort milk cleanser and toner, she followed with a slew of products including the Enzymatic Exfoliating Gel, Restructuring Serum, Peel-off Plumping Mask and Smoothing Serum. Finishing with the Multi-Action Eye Contour and Vitality Youth Cream, my skin felt plump and moisturised, with a smooth and even complexion.
I’m sure I dozed off throughout thanks to Natividad’s divine massage prowess, so it’s undeniable that this facial brings new meaning to the term “beauty sleep.”
We could all do with some uplifting in these uncertain times, and a new gallery dedicated to exhibiting light-based artworks is aiming to do just that. Illuminating a prime corner spot overlooking the Viaduct Harbour, Lightworx Gallery is the brainchild of Pauline Bianchi.
Left: Gliese by Max Patté. Right: A detail of Monsoon by Max Patté.
The new venture comes just months after she launched her first gallery concept of the same name in Queenstown last September, to much acclaim, not far from her other Artbay Gallery.
“The way people responded was phenomenal — I’d never seen anything like it before,” says Bianchi, “Everyone was commenting on how uplifted and inspired the light works made them feel”. It’s scientifically-proven that light can heal, she says, and certain colours are mood-enhancing, so creating a space dedicated to these positive qualities made perfect sense.
Left: Work by Tim Christie. Right: Work by Shannon Novak.
After seeing the idea work so well in Queenstown, the obvious choice for another location was Auckland — just in time for the America’s Cup. Bianchi is thrilled to bring New Zealand-based artists Max Patté, Tim Christie and Trish Campbell to the fore, all of whom specialise in light-based artworks. As many illuminated art pieces are intended to be displayed in a darkened environment, having a space designed especially to do so, allows them to be seen at their best.
From light sticks that create a meditative, diffused glow to hypnotically geometric shapes that draw in the viewer’s eye, there is huge variation within the world of light-based art, and it has found a fitting home within Lightworx.
Lightworx Gallery Auckland
Shop 1/110 Customs Street West
For the last few months, there has been Gemmayze Street-shaped hole in our stomachs while the Karangahape Road favourite was closed for a revamp. Originally opening in 2016, Gemmayze Street garnered swift and widespread acclaim for its delectable modern-Lebanese menu and lively St Kevins Arcade location. So popular was it, in fact, that by the time it closed its doors, the 40-diners-an-evening that had been predicted by owner Samir Allen, had swelled to around 200 punters on busy weekends. After a while, it became clear that a change was needed to keep up with demand.
Despite having talked about reimagining the space as far back as 2019, Allen had to put his plans on hold due to Covid-19 disruptions, deciding to take the leap at the end of last year, and finally reopening his doors in early March — much to the relief of Aucklanders who had been deprived of his particularly delicious take on Middle Eastern fare for far too long.
From left: The new indoor seating area; Samak nayeh with market fish, radicchio, coriander and pomegranate
Inside, the new space is not only more interactive but stands as a much more accurate reflection of the type of food Allen serves and the community feel he seeks to cultivate. With a new pastry area where diners can watch desserts being made, a new bar, indoor banquette seating and importantly, a brand new kitchen (designed by Wonder Group) that is 50 percent bigger than previously, Allen explains that the overall effect is a restaurant that feels more connected, and facilitates the flow of service far better than before.
Aesthetically, the new Gemmayze Street features an interior of rich purple velvet with textured terracotta-toned walls and accents of copper and gold. An ode to the district of the same name in Beirut, the finishes are sumptuous without feeling over the top and offer a modern interpretation of more classical Middle Eastern design mores. (Think handblown glass lamps by Luke Jacomb to reference the iconic, multi-coloured lamps so often associated with the Middle East).
From left: Zalabia with funnel cake, cardamom, nectarine, cream diplomat, coconut; The outdoor dining area
On the menu, while the concept has remained more or less the same the dishes have been taken to a whole new level. Expect the same complex flavours you loved from Gemmayze Street before, but executed in a way that feels entirely more refined. This is still, as Allen puts it, his take on his grandmother’s table, and a love-letter to the traditional flavours of Lebanon, but it is also a dining experience that feels suited to our contemporary tastes, and one that meets our expectations of excellence with ease.
The reimagined Gemmayze Street not only improves on the experience of its diners, but its newer, bigger nature allows Allen the scope to push his concept further if he wants. Something that will surely be on the cards if Gemmayze Street’s popularity continues to surge.
On a mission to create clothing that didn’t cost the world, Oz Jabur — a seasoned entrepreneur with experience in impactful product design and innovation — combined his love for nostalgic sportswear with his passion for sustainability. The result is Future Co, a brand that plays by its own rules and displays a commitment to sustainable business practices, reducing its carbon footprint and becoming an advocate for a more circular economy in fashion.
Designed in New Zealand and realised in ‘capsules’ rather than in traditional collections, Future Co’s philosophy is one of simple practicality. Its sportswear is sleek, fit-for-purpose and mostly unisex (while the clothes in its first capsule, 001, were cut for men, Jabur explains that female-specific styles are definitely on the horizon) and everything is made from lightweight, fast-drying and comfortable fabrics.
Future Co’s fashion-savvy is matched only by its commitment to sustainability. The fabrics are Global Recycled Standards-certified and the pieces are all made via light manufacturing processes in Bangladesh, with Future Co working alongside safe, sustainably-run factories that offer fair wages and working conditions. Ultimately, the brand’s goal is to establish its own research and development facility locally, where it can work on textile and process innovation to continue driving its sustainable message forward. This is something it wants to achieve by 2025.
And if all of that wasn’t enough, Future Co has also teamed up with organisations like The New Zealand Native Forest Restoration Trust, r3pack and Carbon Click, to help it achieve carbon neutrality across its entire supply chain.
Creating slow fashion for fast people, Future Co is breaking away from the mass-market norms of its competitors to offer something in the sportswear space that we can all wear with a clear conscious. This is one brand we’ll be following with interest.
Nicolas Ghesquière’s latest Louis Vuitton capsule collection is touching down at the fashion house’s Queen Street boutique this Friday 19th of March, and it’s conjuring late-summer sunsets and a sunny disposition thanks to joyfully sorbet-tinged prints and fabrics.
Within the ready-to-wear, relaxed silhouettes reign supreme, with this release embracing a polished spin on leisurewear, resulting in pieces that are both versatile and effortless. A monogram ombré silk sleeveless shirt dress lends a chic yet practical air to daytime dressing, while breezy silk straight-cut trousers are an instant wardrobe staple.
An accessories update will surely be in order thanks to Louis Vuitton’s irresistible new styles of the iconic LV Archlight sneaker — available in special edition pink or blue, these instantly-recognisable shoes are now even more covetable. Fresh pastel shades of the Onthego MM bring a lighter touch to the emblematic tote bag, while
From left: Swarovski Neckline A-Line Mini Dress; Shiny Monogram Floor-Length Skirt
Also available from Friday are select pieces from Ghesquière’s unforgettable Spring/Summer 2021 runway show, which took us back to the future with eighties-inspired silhouettes and technicolour prints. Pieces like the Swarovski neckline A-line mini dress and the shiny monogram floor-length skirt demand a suitably glamorous occasion for their first outing, so we suggest you find one to attend, stat.
In Japanese culinary culture, the concept of ‘shun’ refers to the exact moment at which a food has achieved its peak flavour. Crucial to the Japanese growing season, this concept helps to ensure that fruits, vegetables and meats are cultivated and enjoyed at their most delicious, and it’s something that Azabu Mission Bay is capitalising on for its upcoming Omakase dinner series, with Roku Gin.
Highlighting the six unique botanicals of Roku Gin, diners will be treated to a sensory experience as they are guided by the principle of ‘shun,’ through a culinary exploration of the seasons. Expertly-paired gin and food combinations will serve to offer delicious insight into the harvesting of each of Roku Gin’s botanicals, not only offering diners a deeper understanding of this gin’s complex flavour, but an immersive dining experience like no other.
Each of the three Omakase dinners, scheduled for the 25th of March, the 1st of April and the 22nd of April, are set to be unmissable, delectable affairs. That in mind, we suggest securing your spot now. Tickets are available here.
Nestled in a quiet patch of shops near Upland Road in Remuera, Goldfin is a sweet neighbourhood restaurant cooking up tasty, approachable Japanese fare six nights a week. Owned by Jane Kim and Suyoung Jin (known to all as Jin), locals might have seen a few incarnations of Goldfin over the years — initially starting life as Soi restaurant, Goldfin was taken over by the couple in 2018. Earlier this year, Goldfin underwent a rebrand in an effort from its owners to breathe new life into the space, now leaning more towards tastefully elegant rather than overly traditional.
Originally from South Korea, both Jane and Jin have a background working in hospitality and management (including Japanese restaurants) in New Zealand, and the couple has an abiding love for the beautiful simplicity of Japanese cuisine.
“We try to demonstrate our respect for Japanese food, and make it as authentic as possible,” says Jane. Jin’s domain is the kitchen where he creates and oversees the execution of the menu, and Jane looks after diners front of house.
On the menu, you’ll find a range of shareable entrées, salads and sushi rolls, plus sashimi platters, noodle soups and a substantial mains offering. There is also usually a selection of off-menu specials created by Jin — when we visited, these included a tasty soy-glazed confit duck leg, and honey-tender braised pork belly in a savoury broth with vegetables.
Even the small sashimi platter is quite generous, and was superbly fresh when we tried it. Comprising several different types of raw fish (dependent on what’s available), we had snapper, trevally, salmon, tuna, scallops and prawns. The fish is served on a bed of fresh shredded daikon and with freshly grated wasabi — a crucial component, as the stuff from a tube simply doesn’t compare when it comes to this dish.
Left: Honey-tender braised pork belly
From the sushi selection, we enjoyed the California Roll; again, it was very fresh, and didn’t taste overly complicated despite its filling of raw salmon, prawn tempura, avocado and tempura green bean, plus a dusting of flying fish roe all around the outside.
Come wintertime, the Goldfin team will also be offering ramen as another off-menu special, and while they’ve thus far avoided doing too much in the way of fusion, they’re open to experimenting with bringing in flavours from their home country here and there, after regulars have encouraged them to do so.
So, should you find yourself in Remuera (or if you’re a local) and are craving some tasty Japanese food made with love, we suggest you get yourself to Goldfin where Jane and Jin will look after you.
Goldfin Japanese Cuisine
596 Remuera Road,
Remuera
‘Tis the season for some of our favourite treats of the entire year. We’re talking, of course, about hot cross buns; those delectably spicy, fruit-filled, bread-centric delights that ferry a generous spreading of butter most deliciously into our mouths.
Not all hot cross buns are created equal, but luckily the competition is stiff in Auckland with many bakeries and restaurants turning out topnotch buns annually.
New to the hot cross bun landscape are these from The Pantry at Park Hyatt Auckland, and we can vouch that they are scrumptious indeed. Created by Callum Liddicoat (Executive Chef, Pastry), there are two options on offer — one to appeal to those who prefer something more mild and savoury, and one that is more sweet and decadent.
Traditional hot cross buns from The Pantry at Park Hyatt Auckland
“Across my 21-year career as a pastry chef, I’ve tried and baked many different hot cross buns around the world at Easter,” says Liddicoat. “Using the very best ideas from these recipes and tastings, I’ve curated my own signature hot cross buns.”
His recipe combines the best aspects of a brioche and a milk bun to result in a bread that is marvellously light and not too dense. The traditional flavour contains raisins and all spice of course, however they have a lower fruit ratio than some others we’ve seen which makes them perfect for those who love the taste of hot cross buns but aren’t huge fans of dried fruit. They do also feature added lemon zest and citrus peel, plus Liddicoat adds freshly ground tonka beans which imparts a marzipan kick. The final delicious touch is The Pantry’s house-made butter, whipped with mānuka honey and sea salt.
After meeting the founder of Mahurangi-based chocolatier Foundry Chocolate, Liddicoat knew he wanted to work with the company and Easter provided the perfect opportunity. The Pantry’s chocolate hot cross buns are just the right amount of rich thanks to The Foundry’s Vanuatu signature chocolate, plus orange zest and tonka beans. They are flecked with crystallised ginger and Liddicoat says this bun is best served toasted with Lewis Road Creamery’s Artisan Sea Salt Butter — we happen to agree.
Chocolate hot cross buns
Baked fresh daily, these buns are available to purchase individually at The Pantry, or can be bought by the half-dozen in person or online at The Pantry’s online cake shop. While Easter might still be a couple of weeks away, we’re of the mind that it just gives us more time to toast and eat as many of these delicious buns as we can get our hands on.
Since it opened last year, Commercial Bay has fast become a firm favourite dining destination thanks to its formidable selection of both casual and refined bars and eateries. From ingenious snacks to plant-based burgers, here are the dishes we just can’t get enough of.
Dry aged Peking duck breast, carrot, cherry and pomegranatefrom The Lodge Bar & Dining This delicious duck is aged for 21 days, and flavoured with sweet fruity accents for a dish that lends a moreish and delectable depth of flavour.
Tahr tartare, summer flower and fermented hot saucefrom Ahi A snack we keep returning to time after time, these morsels are the perfect way to kick off a meal at Ahi, comprising finely diced tahr and fermented hot sauce on small, undulating choux pastries.
Soft shell crab, XO vinaigrette, buttermilk and leek oil from Gochu This dish centres on tasty soft shell crab with a crispy outer and tender, sweet meat inside. Drizzled in a spicy Korean XO pork, balanced with the richness and acidity of buttermilk and pickled onions, it’s a flavour bomb we’d gladly gobble any night of the week.
Handmade sauced pork bunsfrom Sunnytown Sunnytown’s sauced pork buns are something special. Made fresh daily, these buns have a rich, deeply savoury pork filling that oozes from the centre when they’re pulled apart, pillowy and steaming.
Crispy fried chickburgerfrom Wise Boys Containing no actual chicken, you won’t know this is actually a plant-based beauty thanks to Wise Boys’ original recipe crispy fried ‘chicken’. It’s paired with tangy slaw, vegan cheese, pickles, their signature vegan aioli and sriracha mayo, all inside a toasted bun.
When heading out on the water this weekend, be sure to pack the essentials. It might seem simple, but you would be surprised by the number of people who think a boat day is all laid-back leisure and lounging in the sun. Things can turn, fast. And when the action is as high-stakes as the Cup, you can bet on an electrifying day. Wondering what to bring? Start with these…
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Something Warm
Something Warm
Whether a luxurious knit or a failsafe pullover, having something with a bit of warmth is crucial or when winds are high and the weather turns, and it can happen faster than you think.
While you should expect to be asked to remove your shoes on most boats, there are some exceptions if you’re wearing the right footwear (i.e. some variation that won’t do irreparable damage to the deck).
Continuing in its (very successful) mission to offer incredible products for each aspect of our skincare routines, cult New Zealand beauty brand Emma Lewisham has proudly added a daytime moisturiser to its repertoire. The Illuminating Brighten Your Day Crème is both luxurious and lightweight, formulated with brightening properties front and centre in order to impart an unparalleled glow, hydration and plumpness to the skin’s complexion.
It joins the ranks of the high-performance Illuminating range, acting as the perfect following step from the Illuminating Oil Cleanser and the Illuminating Exfoliant. “We believe in creating fewer products that have a plethora of skin health benefits,” explains founder Emma Lewisham. “It’s pivotal to us that each new product has a specific purpose.”
Having been inundated with requests from many ardent fans of the brand for a day cream formulated without SPF, the team commenced rigorous research, development and consumer study regimes, and the result is nothing short of excellent.
In-keeping with Emma Lewisham’s ethos of 100 percent natural yet scientifically-backed skincare, the Day Crème is shown through in vitro testing to rebuild the skin’s natural collagen production synthesis — at a cellular level. This is crucial, given collagen is what gives our skin its bounce, strength and elasticity, the production of which naturally decreases as we age.
The first thing to notice on application is the Day Crème’s rich and almost iridescent particles, which impart a light-catching glow to the skin. This is thanks to the brightening synergy of Acerola (Barbados Cherry) and Kakadu plum; both of which are potent natural vitamin C extracts.
A blend of AHAs, including caviar lime and lime pearl, and BHA willow bark, work to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, revealing a radiant and healthy complexion. Additionally, to bolster all of these high-performance ingredients, Brighten Your Day Crème contains Saccharide Isomerate, which replenishes and maintains the skin barrier’s moisture reserves for up to 72-hours — no dry patches here.
In-keeping with Emma Lewisham’s eco-friendly ethos, the Day Crème is also available in a new circular-designed refillable jar. Customers have the option to buy refillable Day Crème pods, and send back empty pods for sterilisation and repurposing, or recycling, at no expense through the Emma Lewisham Beauty Circle.
After a six-week consumer study led by the brand, comprising 50 participants of all ages, ethnicities and skin types, 90 percent said the Illuminating Brighten Your Day Crème enhanced their skin’s glow, and 86 percent said it improved their skin’s hydration.
When applied daily after cleansing and before SPF, it’s easy to see why Emma Lewisham is one of our most sought-after beauty brands. From the first swipe of radiance-bestowing formula, we’re sure you’ll be just as hooked on this new product as we are.
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