The timeless yet innovative design of Levi’s has been joined by Danish brand Ganni’s effortless cool for a new collection — and it’s set to become an instant mainstay in wardrobes the world over.
Launching today, the irreverent collaboration comprises denim jeans, jackets, dresses and tops, offering a 14-piece collection of quirky staples that harness the best of Levi’s’ iconic US heritage and Ganni’s playful take on Scandi style — which Ganni Creative Director Ditte Reffstrup calls ‘Scandi style 2.0’. “We wanted to create a super classic denim collection, full of staples you will keep forever,” says Reffstrup. “But, it wouldn’t be Ganni without the unexpected details.”
A macro floral print on some of the pieces nods to a 90’s sensibility, while several styles are even more hardworking than denim already is, in that they can be worn multiple ways — a denim dress with thin straps, for example, can be shimmied down and worn as a high-waisted skirt. The Peter Pan collar, one of Ganni’s recognisable signatures, naturally makes an appearance. All underlaid with the quintessential Levi’s washes, and customised further on the back patch with Ganni’s love letter icon and logo.
This is the second collaboration between Levi’s and Ganni. The first, ‘Love Letter’, was a rental-only collection that launched in August 2020. It utilised upcycled denim made with vintage Levi’s 501 jeans, and was conceptualised as an exciting addition to the circular fashion economy — another step from both brands towards investigating more sustainable avenues. “We don’t call ourselves a sustainable brand, because the fashion industry is driven by newness. But I’m excited for us to continue to try and do better. We see it as our moral obligation being in the business of fashion,” says Reffstrup.
From left: Levi’s x Ganni Collared Dress; Levi’s x Ganni Cinched Dress; Levi’s x Ganni Cinched Short; Levi’s x Ganni Slit Loose Straight
This new collection builds on this through its choice of fabrication: cottonised hemp. A more earth-friendly material that has been utilised by Levi’s throughout many of its recent collections, hemp (compared to cotton) grows more quickly, requires less water to grow, and reportedly leaves behind cleaner, healthier soils. The brand works with fibre technology specialists who have created a cottonisation process to make it look (and feel) almost exactly like cotton. “It’s actually so soft and luxurious-feeling,” Reffstrup enthuses. “You honestly can’t tell it’s not conventional denim. It’s been so cool working with the Levi’s team on this, as it’s a completely new quality and innovative process — and it has that perfect, washed denim look.”
From left: Levi’s x Ganni Western Dress; Levi’s x Ganni Cinched High Loose Jeans; Levi’s x Ganni Denim Blazer; Levi’s x Ganni Off-Shoulder Trucker Top
If she had to choose a favourite from the collaboration, the Creative Director says she loves the oversized denim jacket — “it can also double as a dress if you are up for something short and cheeky.”
Community is an important concept for both Levi’s and Ganni — a good example of this is Ganni’s ongoing #GanniGirls campaign on social media. Reffstrup credits this community with helping her team get through the year and do better. “We’ve really been listening to them, creating community-driven campaigns, and launching a podcast. It’s brought our community closer to us and each other, into our campaigns and shoots.”
The campaign for this Levi’s x Ganni collection is an extension of this community spirit, and a fitting symbol of the cross-continental nature of the collaboration. It was shot by London photographer Rosie Marks using her signature cardboard cutout images. “Because we had to shoot during the pandemic and couldn’t travel, we wanted to bring Copenhagen and San Francisco together.” They photographed some friends of the brand and team members in and around Copenhagen landmarks, made them into cardboard cutouts and sent them to San Francisco to capture US friends of the brand in front of more landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge. “It’s #GanniGirls on the move,” says Reffstrup. “From Copenhagen to San Francisco, with love.”
The 14-piece ready-to-wear Levi’s x Ganni collection is available to buy from today on levis.co.nz, ganni.com and at Levi’s Sylvia Park exclusively in New Zealand.
As the space where meals are enjoyed and drinks are imbibed for occasions ordinary and extraordinary, one cannot underestimate the importance of a good dining table. Whether your needs call for a communal table fit for entertaining a crowd or an intimate setting for a chosen few, these dining tables are sure to inspire.
There’s trouble brewing on the high seas this weekend. With Sir Ben Ainslie’s Ineos Team UK already four losses down in the race to seven wins against Prada, there’s some serious work required by him and his team to take control of the challenge. Those who think this could be a landslide win to Prada may want to get a little more clued-up on the man behind Ineos Team UK, and understand that this is a sailor with fire in his belly.
1. Ainslie is the most decorated sailor in Olympic history with four gold medals and one silver. His first one, a silver, was won in 1996 when he was aged 19. He won medals at five consecutive Olympics from 1996 onwards, including gold at the four Games held between 2000 and 2012.
2. He has a famous temper on the water — for example, he was involved in a war of words with fellow sailors Jonas Hogh-Christensen and Pieter-Jan Postma during the 2012 Olympics when he claimed the two were ganging up against him.
3. Ben Ainslie’s wife, Lady Ainslie, is better known as Georgie Thompson and is a successful and highly respected TV and radio presenter in the UK.
4. Ainslie began sailing on an Optimist as a 9-year-old at Restronguet near Falmouth in England.
5. Upon receiving his Knighthood in 2013, he was quoted as saying, “For me, it is probably the proudest moment of my life and it’s even more special to be able to share it with my family and friends. It’s a huge honour and a day to remember, but life moves on to the future and the next project and challenge. For me it’s the America’s Cup, it started in Britain in 1851 and yet we haven’t won it and that’s something I feel is missing from our maritime history so it would be great if we can achieve that. We have a lot of great sailors in the UK so I hope that we can win the Cup, that’s the next challenge.”
6. Bad blood currently exists between his team INEOS Team UK and Luna Rossa after the Italians successfully protested against the British team’s use of a sail control system early in the regatta, which was found to be outside competition rules. Luna Rossa’s protest cost INEOS Team UK $5,000 and left the British team entering the first-to-seven-win with the Prada Cup final with effectively one strike against it. The rivalry has since continued this week, with Ineos happy to wait until Level 2 restrictions are lifted before racing again, while the (COR) Prada insistent on racing immediately.
Hallelujah! Auckland eateries have been given the green light to re-open their doors for dine-in customers during Alert Level 2, under the requirements that diners must be socially distanced, seated and served by a single staff member during their visit. From special offers to must-try dishes, these restaurants are re-opening with a bang. Remember to record your visit via the Covid tracer app and, most importantly, be kind to hospitality staff as they readjust to the rules.
Ahi It’s back to business for Ahi, where you can find some of the best food and views the city has to offer. Open from lunch ‘til late, we recommend staking your claim on the airy balcony and enjoying Ahi’s irresistible snacks — the tahr tartare, scampi corndog and Te Matuku oysters are musts. Follow @ahirestaurant for updates
Andiamo Andiamo’s popular Locals Lunch is back, offering a two-course menu and glass of wine for just $35, available Wednesday — Sunday, 12pm-4pm. Follow @andiamoeatery for updates
Azabu Secure a spot in Azabu Mission Bay’s sunny Roku Gin garden and order the Harajuku Brunch, an Azabu-style long lunch which rolls out several courses including oysters, sushi, dumplings, ceviche and its infamous fried chicken and tostada (to name just a few) for $55 per person (minimum four people). Follow @azabumissionbay and @azabuponsonby for updates
Clay K’ Road cutie Clay is back doing what it does best, serving up natural wine, excellent pasta and some of the best pizza in town — of which the burnt cream, marinated chard and parmesan is an absolute must. Follow @clay_366krd for updates
Culprit Inner-city favourite Culprit has kickstarted its trolley derby once again, with four trolley bites and one main for the pretty price of just $45. While the menu changes every fortnight, currently you can expect the likes of hot-smoked fish on toast, braised brisket corn dog and Culprit’s iconic pig face. Available for dinner from 5pm Tuesday — Saturday and lunchtime Thursday and Friday.
The Candy Shop If brunch is what you crave, make a beeline for Newmarket’s The Candy Shop. As the winner of the ‘Most Innovative Brunch’ award at last year’s inaugural Denizen Hospo Heroes, The Candy Shop’s clever menu is sure to impress. We rate the croffles (yes, croissant waffles). Follow @thecandyshopnz for updates
The Crab Shack Nothing says celebration quite like crayfish. The Crab Shack is offering an unbeatable lunch special which sees half a crayfish available for $40 and a whole crayfish for just $75, from Tuesday — Friday. Follow @crabshackauckland for updates
Euro With Prada Cup racing confirmed for the weekend, Euro is the place to be. Offering a complimentary glass of G.H Mumm Champagne on arrival for bookings on race days, Euro’s special Race Daze menu includes the likes of its fruits de mer platter, with fresh oysters, clams, mussels, king crab and a tempting selection of raw fish. Follow @eurobarandrestaurant for updates
Hotel Ponsonby Hotspot Hotel Ponsonby is back just in time for the weekend, serving up its much-lauded Scotch eggs and chicken schnitzel. Keep an eye out to learn how the bar and beer garden will operate under the new guidelines. Follow @hotelponsonby for updates
Masu Missed Masu? Its special Year of the Ox menu takes you on a journey through seven delectable courses, featuring the likes of its beef taco, wagyu gyoza, beef maki, wagyu steak with shallot miso and truffle salt alongside sashimi, vegetable tempura and more. Finish strong with the Masu dessert platter and you’re in for a treat. Available for $188 per person. Follow @masurestaurant for updates
Miann Chocolate Factory For the ultimate socially distanced dining experience, Miann’s Morningside location is taking bookings for its Wintergarden Glass Houses. Book in for an afternoon tea including Miann’s famous sweet treats, savoury pastries, scones with clotted cream and jam and a hot drink. Bookings are available for 2-6 people per glasshouse. Follow @miann_chocolatefactory for updates
Onemata Whether the prospect of breakfast, lunch or dinner is luring you out of the house, Park Hyatt Auckland’s Onemata restaurant has all your bases covered. From fresh seafood to 55 day aged scotch, Onemata is a delicious destination to spend your first meal of freedom. Follow @onematarestaurant for updates
Ostro Celebrating Lunar New Year in style, Ostro’s special menu created in honour of Year of the Ox is not to be missed. It includes a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne to start, a delicious seafood platter (with an option to add crayfish), the infamous beef wellington (complete with sides) and a dessert platter to finish. Available for $200 for two people. Follow @ostroakl for updates
Saxon + Parole Brunch and Bloody Marys are a recipe for success, and no one does it better than Saxon + Parole. Trot along to this Commercial Bay favourite between 10am-3pm on Saturday and Sundays to make the most of the weekend-only brunch menu, where you’ll find the everything from Turkish eggs and grilled cheese to pancakes and pies. Follow @saxonandparoleakl for updates
Soul Bar & Bistro Find all your favourites available at Level 2, with Soul swinging back into action to offer its full menu and cocktail list. We can’t choose between the bone in scotch fillet with crispy gourmet potatoes and scampi oil hollandaise (swoon) or the Cloudy Bay clam linguine with chilli and fennel (drool). Follow @soulbarandbistro for updates
If there’s anyone who deserves a drink after the past week, it’s you. Support your local bartender and cheers to good times ahead at these top spots for a strong tipple. Just remember to record your visit via the Covid tracer app.
Boxer From the brains behind Pasture, the boundary-pushing Boxer is more than a bar — it’s an elevated drinks experience.
Little Culprit Always a top choice for an after-work tipple, this inner-city cocktail bar may be petite, but everything it does, it does to perfection. Try the new Milk Punch, a play on fruit punch that’s infused with fruit loops and clarified until crystal clear with milk.
Captain’s Bar Opulent but not ostentatious, Captain’s Bar at the Park Hyatt Auckland is the perfect place to while away the hours, rum cocktail in hand.
Deadshot Let the experts take the wheel at menu-free Deadshot (and sister bar Caretaker), they’ll do all the hard work for you to craft a top-notch tipple based on your tastes and preferences.
Sabrage Champagne Bar Having newly reopened within Sofitel Auckland, Sabrage celebrates the re-emergence of the classic Champagne bar, with seasonal cocktails, a local wine list and enticing platters.
Ghost Donkey Mezcal and tequila lovers: Ghost Donkey is your spot. Boasting dozens of variations of the spirit, plus a moreish Mexican menu, this Commercial Bay bar is the scene of many a memorable night.
Parasol & Swing A well-appointed balcony is a must when proximity to Viaduct Harbour is this premium, and Parasol & Swing does the view justice; as do its cocktail and food menus.
Pineapple on Parnell Boasting a comprehensive cocktail list, and an intimate setting with a touch of eclectic character, this Parnell Road bar is ideal for a cosy drink with friends.
Rooftop at QT Featuring an extensive cocktail menu, complemented by a sophisticated local wine list and Mediterranean-style tapas, this Viaduct Harbour bar is the place to be. Find outdoor lounge seating that allows revellers to take in the exquisite surrounds while sipping on expertly-poured libations.
Provided we move to Level 1 on Monday, the highly-anticipated Auckland Art Fair is set to kick off at The Cloud next week, bringing 40 galleries together to present the work of more than 150 artists from around New Zealand (and a handful from Australia and the Pacific Islands). After its 2020 event had to be cancelled, this year’s Art Fair marks a grand return, and with a programme packed with artist talks, commissioned pieces by emerging artists, a new outdoor sculpture space, an art bookshop and more, the line-up certainly reflects it.
This year’s fair will be focused on showcasing the very best of Aotearoa, its carefully curated roster an ode to the wellspring of artistic talent we have in our own backyard (often not as acknowledged as it should be). From galleries like Auckland’s Sanderson Contemporary, which will be showcasing works like Freeman White’s Te Mata: Symphony In Green to galleries like Laree Payne from Hamilton, Jhana Millers from Wellington and Milford Galleries from Dunedin and Queenstown, this year’s participants have the whole country collectively covered. There are even a few notable galleries from Sydney, including Station and Fine Arts, and one from Rarotonga, Bergman Gallery.
Alongside all the action of its gallery stalls, the Art Fair has, for the first time, introduced an outdoor sculpture space, set to take up residence at the end of The Cloud, overlooking the Waitematā Harbour. There, visitors to the fair will be able to peruse incredible sculptural works or take a seat in the sun and enjoy a cocktail from the Scapegrace Gin and Vodka Cocktail Bar.
Other things to note in this year’s line-up include the ‘In Residence’ space on The Cloud’s mezzanine (a new initiative for artist-run galleries to showcase their works), the Projects exhibition, in which the fair provides a platform for a wider range of artists, including those who are unrepresented (one of this year’s project artists, Elisabeth Pointon, will be projecting her piece, WHOEVER, onto the Tiffany & Co. building in Britomart), and the imaginative Squiggla Making Space for kids, upstairs in The Cloud.
Assuming we are all given the green light to return to Level 1 on Monday, this year’s Art Fair is set to be one for the ages. In 2019, the Fair sold more than $9million worth of art and established itself as a significant generator of funds for the artists and galleries who worked so tirelessly to present their best work to the public. So get yourself a ticket and support our talented, local creative community.
To celebrate the highly-anticipated return of Auckland Art Fair, we have a double pass to give away to the opening night on Wednesday, 24th February. To enter the draw to win, simply head to our Instagram. Entrants must be over the age 21, the winner will be drawn on Tuesday, 23rd February.
Auckland Art Fair 24th February – 28th February The Cloud 89 Quay Street, Auckland
There is something distinctly intimate about putting on a fragrance. Beyond its olfactory purpose alone, the ritual of donning a scent can bring about moments of transformation and escapism, and can speak to the character of the wearer while revealing the various notes of their personality.
No one understands this as well as Tom Ford. The iconic fashion and beauty brand has built a reputation on creating scents that serve to capture, enhance and transform the nature of their wearers in ways that are subtle but undeniable. And its latest fragrance is no different.
Tubéreuse Nue is Tom Ford’s new Private Blend perfume that takes its wearer to another place — even if that place is a side of themselves they might never have explored before. Playing on tuberose’s reputation as the ‘mistress of the night’ (after all, it is a flower that only reveals its true potency once the sun has gone down) this intriguing scent is an invitation to embrace nocturnal sensuality.
From its initially-innocent notes of floral tuberose and jasmine, Tubéreuse Nue takes a seductive turn with touches of potent Timut pepper and erotic suede accord — providing a peak that hints at bare skin and after-dark pursuits. This is rounded off with a soft, musky blanket of patchouli and agar wood that lends a lasting glow.
In this perfume, Tom Ford has discovered an unexpected depth to the classic tuberose we know and love, reinventing it in way that evokes the scent’s classic innocence during the day but morphs into something heady, complex and cathartic at night. It is ultimately an escapist scent. Allowing those who wear it to leave the mundanity of daily life behind and investigate who they can become when lost in a fragrance that comes to life in the shadows.
If you’re feeling indecisive or uninspired about what to watch next, let this concise list guide you in the right direction.
Framing Britney Spears Watch on ThreeNow Quite possibly the most talked-about documentary of 2021 so far, Framing Britney Spears examines the highly-publicised life and career of pop icon Britney Spears, exposing the media’s toxic and troubling treatment of the superstar, her controversial conservatorship and the battle to control her estate. This feature-length film, produced by The New York Times, has seen a fresh wave of concerned fans and onlookers calling for the legal system to #FreeBritney.
Lupin Watch on Netflix Abandon your phone and turn all your attention to Lupin, Netflix’s new French language crime drama. Subtitles make this a requirement, although we would advise following this rule regardless. Inspired by the famous French tale of Arsène Lupin, the gentleman thief and master of disguise, this ten-part series follows Assane Diop as he avenges his father’s downfall at the hands of his wealthy employers. With twists and turns abound, this series has been likened to Sherlock Holmes and Luther in its addictiveness.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJPOla_1Px0
Your Honor Watch on Neon Fans of Breaking Bad will be pleased to see Bryan Cranston back doing what he does best — taking a turn from the norm to do terrible things. In Your Honor, Cranston stars as Michael Desiato, a respected judge whose son commits a hit-and-run, of which the consequences spiral into a web of deception, lies and impossible choices. A nail-biting watch that’s nerve-wracking to say the least.
Euphoria (Special Episodes 1 & 2) Watch on Neon Euphoria returns with two special episodes to placate eager appetites while season two is inevitably delayed due to Covid-19. In a departure from the bouncing soundtrack and drippingly rich visuals synonymous with the teen drama, the paired-back specials focus on characters Rue (Zendaya’s historic Emmy Award-winning role) and Jules as they hold one-on-one conversations with a sobriety sponsor and a therapist respectively. Intimate and intense, these bonus episodes are a must-watch for fans and newcomers, acting as an important bridge between the first and upcoming second season.
The White Tiger Watch on Netflix With an impressive 92 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Netflix’s new film The White Tiger is proving to be a hit with critics and audiences alike. Based on the Man Booker Prize-winning novel of the same name, The White Tiger explores the intricacies of class and caste in India, examining the divide between the haves and the have-nots through the journey of a poor villager turned ambitious entrepreneur.
Just because we’ve gone to Level 3, doesn’t mean we have to stop supporting the local hospitality industry. They need your custom now more than ever, and while for the short term we can’t dine-in, we can get online and see who is offering takeaway services.
It’s important that we all appreciate the ramifications of shutting an operation’s doors so swiftly, particularly when it comes to the fresh meat, seafood and produce that has already been ordered to prepare meals. Most of these food supplies are perishable, and therefore must be used, or worse still, disposed of.
So doing your bit to order from your favourite spots, who are doing everything they can through this new wave, to remain as unscathed as possible, is a charitable endeavour.
At Level 3, many of your favourite eateries are offering contactless pickups and delivery. Remember, we’ve done this before, we can do it again. We’re all in this together.
We encourage you to check the websites, Instagram and Facebook accounts of your favourites to see what you can do to support them.
It was over lockdown that friends Ollie Morrison and Logan Stevens embarked on a food experiment by combining some of their favourite things — soft, buttery roti paratha and South Asian flavours with the classic Kiwi pie. The result? A happy hybrid that looks like a pie but is packed with a whole lot more flavour.
The duo decided to take their roti pies to the world, and under the name Roti Bros, started cultivating a fast following as one of Auckland’s must-visit food stalls.
From left: Logan Stevens and Ollie Morrison; Butter Chicken pie
The line-up of Roti Bros’ pies comprises three main fillings that take cues from the traditional flavours of India, Thailand and Malaysia respectively. The Thai Beef Cheek pie is a delicious and bold combination of sweet, salty and sour, while the Butter Chicken pie offers the same kind of indulgent, aromatic character as the traditional curry we all know and love. Rounding out the trio, the Satay Panang pie is rich and creamy (with a hint of nuttiness) and is entirely vegan-friendly.
Alongside the core flavours, Roti Bros will occasionally offer up limited-edition pies as well — most recently a Chicken Tikka Masala iteration and a Lamb Mince Curry pie which they created in collaboration with Satya.
From left: Thai Beef Cheek pie; La Cigale Markets
Having done the rounds at a number of pop-ups and markets in Auckland, Roti Bros is currently setting up regularly at Parnell’s La Cigale every Saturday morning from 8am until 2pm. But you best get in quick — pies as tasty as these tend to sell out fast.
Is there anything more quintessential during a New Zealand summer than fish and chips on the beach? We’re always on the lookout for purveyors of our favourite deep fried goods, and whether you’re a resident of the Eastern Beaches or just visiting, this recently-opened Mission Bay chippie is one to try.
Named Fishboy, the “casual seafood eatery” is the brainchild of the team behind thriving Herne Bay outpost Fishsmith, and anyone familiar with their offering can expect the same level of delightful fish-oriented bites.
From left: Panko-crumbed haloumi; Battered fish burger
A key difference is that Fishboy has the capacity for dine-in eaters, thanks to larger premises with both interior and exterior tables — should the glory of dining on the sand at Mission Bay beach opposite not quite appeal. It is also licensed for beer and wine, of which it has a succinct selection from Garage Project and Soho, respectively.
Aside from the selection of excellent fish fillets, available battered, crumbed, grilled or with gluten free batter, and both potato and kumara chips, there’s a plethora of other dishes to branch out to. There’s salt and pepper squid, dusted with five-spice salt and pepper mix, and panko-crumbed halloumi; a mussel po boy burger, and a grilled fish salad for those feeling virtuous. The battered fish burger is always excellent, as are the fish tacos, and the variety of condiments including smokey aioli, hot sauce mayo and curry ketchup are sure to make each dip of a chip even more delicious.
From left: Fishboy is located on Tamaki Drive; Grilled fish salad
While we’ve certainly had a good summer so far, we’re not ready to say goodbye to it yet, and next sunny weekend day you’ll be sure to find us flocking to Fishboy — see you at the beach.
Aside from its high-tech vessels and the skills of its participating teams, one of the key magic ingredients integral to those involved in the America’s Cup is passion. For Patrizio Bertelli, president of Luna Rossa Challenge and CEO of Prada Group, a passion for sailing has enriched his life since well before the Italian team was established in 1997, and continues today.
The Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team was born one evening in Milan after a meeting between Bertelli and the Argentinian yacht designer, German Frers, and over 20 years later is now a team of seasoned Cup professionals — this is the sixth time they have launched as Challenger of Record.
Indeed, the current regatta would not be possible if it weren’t for the energy and funding of Prada Group and Pirelli Group. While Prada has supported Luna Rossa since 1997, this year it is the presenting and naming partner for America’s Cup and the Prada Cup challenger series.
An inspiring entrepreneur, Bertelli was born in 1946 and started a company making belts and bags at a very young age. This was to be a precursor to his future ventures as, in 1977, he met his now-wife Miuccia Prada, and together they expanded the Prada brand to become one of the world’s most important luxury goods companies.
The couple’s cultural interests also led to the creation of the treasured Fondazione Prada in 1993, and Bertelli is the first Italian to have been inducted in the America’s Cup Hall of Fame. Charismatic and driven, Patrizio Bertelli’s love for the Cup is not motivated by commercial considerations but a deep respect for the uniqueness of the challenge. As he said in a recent America’s Cup video interview: “That’s what makes it special.”
Thanks to the America’s Cup, boating culture has come to the fore in a big way. After all, there’s nothing like spending a beautiful, bluebird day out on the water, particularly when the entertainment is high-speed, high-stakes yacht racing. And given that things are really only just starting to heat up in the America’s Cup arena, and there are many more opportunities for boat days on the horizon, we thought it high time we rounded up all the essentials to ensure any boating adventure is a success.
The best way to avoid a faux pas on the water is to keep things simple, sleek and elegant. From practical considerations to a touch of necessary glamour, these are the essential pieces you should have on hand before stepping foot on a boat.
Providing a family-friendly environment for everyone to enjoy, Viaduct Harbour’s purpose-built structure the Upper Deck is the ideal location to catch all the racing action this summer. Located in Market Square directly opposite Hello Beasty there’s plenty of seats, including comfortable bean bags and sofas positioned beneath umbrellas, from where you can recline and watch the teams go head to head.
Order takeaway food from any of the surrounding eateries including Hello Beasty or O’Hagans or simply bring a picnic of your own and settle in for an afternoon of waterfront action.
Please note: In keeping with the family-friendly nature of this area, it is an alcohol-free zone that is suited to all ages.
The most romantic day of the year is almost here. Chances are you’ve sourced the perfect gift, booked the best table in town or maybe just taken the liberty of planning a lovey-dovey activity or two. Whether you’ve done all of the above (or none at all), this sweet dining experience is sure to be the cherry on top.
Miann Chocolate Factory is serving up dessert with a difference this Valentine’s Day, with special sittings available at its Wintergarden Glass Houses on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th February.
The glasshouses, which opened last year at Miann’s Morningside location, offer an intimate, Insta-worthy dining setting like no other in Auckland.
For the pretty price of $50 per person, couples can expect an a la carte dessert, drink, a cake each to take home and a bar of Miann’s craft chocolate — all to be enjoyed inside the chic surrounds of the glasshouses.
With bookings available for parties of two, it’s the ideal opportunity to celebrate love in all its wonderful forms with your better half, best friend or beloved family member. Sharing a sweet with your sweet has never been so, dare we say, sweet.
Sittings are limited, so best be in quick to secure your spot. Book online here
As we re-emerge from another stint of working from home, there’s no better time to treat yourself and support inner-city businesses the tastiest way we know how: by showing some love at lunchtime. From sandwiches and salads to dumplings and noodles, these are the best places to grab a work lunch in Auckland’s CBD (and surrounding city suburbs). Tools down, forks up.
Obar Snack Bar Inspired by the lunch bars of Seoul, Chancery Street’s Obar Snack Bar is the perfect midday pit-stop, whether you’re dining solo or as part of a co-worker crew. Specialising in gimbap (Korean-style sushi), Obar Snack Bar’s offering sees it paired in a combo meal with tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), ramen or fried chicken and dumplings. The checklist menu makes ordering a breeze, and with prices starting at under $10 for a combo, this is one delicious lunch deal that will keep your wallet and your tummy happy.
The Humble Canteen
The Humble Canteen If no-fuss nourishment is what you seek, make a beeline for Wynyard Quarter’s wholesome new offering. The Humble Canteen is on a mission to offer tasty food that nurtures the body and the planet, with a variety of healthful dishes that can be eaten on-site or to-go. Choose from the likes of flatbread wraps, soups, curries and build-a-bowl salads, complete with help yourself ‘flavour bombs’ such as pickled green tomatoes, almond dukkah and crispy shallots.
&Sushi Located cityside at City Works Depot and Britomart, &Sushi has carved out a reputation for serving some of the most delicious, intricate pieces of sushi around. Build your dream lunch box from the enticing cabinet of sushi, nigiri and inari, or order a bowl of teriyaki chicken donburi or tofu yakisoba. Eat in or take away, &Sushi will have your lunchtime looking good and tasting even better.
Mr. Taco
Mr. Taco Blink and you’ll miss it, this tiny hole-in-the-wall spot on Federal Street has captured our attention for serving some of the tastiest, most authentic tacos in town. With a succinct menu of traditional Mexican favourites, Mr. Taco is a compact operation, perfect for a trio of tacos or a burrito on the go. We highly recommend both the cactus and jackfruit tacos — a flavourful, delightfully spicy choice that will please herbivores and carnivores alike.
Goodlife Superfood Co. For healthy eating that is enjoyable and delicious in equal measure, try Goodlife Superfood Co. Those looking to refuel for a productive afternoon ahead will be more than pleased with its fresh, imaginative mason jar salads such as jerk mango chicken and red grape, walnut and chicken. With dietary requirements well and truly catered to thanks to vegan, dairy-free, nut-free and gluten-free options, it’s no surprise this Fort Street lunch bar is constantly bustling with customers.
Daily Bread
Daily Bread City dwellers rejoice, our favourite sourdough slingers have set up shop in the CBD. Tucked away right next to Saint Patrick’s Square, Daily Bread’s new outpost comes in the form of an architecturally designed kiosk. Serving its signature sandwiches, pastries and pies, you’ll also be able to grab a loaf of bread to take away, ensuring your next homemade office lunch is a lot more impressive than the last.
Hero Sandwich House Speaking of sensational sandwiches, it would be remiss of us to speak of such things and not mention Hero Sandwich House, which just last year brought its legendary deli-style sandwiches to the CBD. Located inside multi-functional workshop, gallery and workspace The Tuesday Club, a visit would not be complete without the famous Philly Cheese (a brioche bun stuffed with skirt steak, jalapeños, buttered onions, pickles and cheddar), plus you can add on Proper Crisps, extra pickles and a cold drink for only $5.
Bang Bang Kitchen If dim sum, fried rice and Peking duck are more your speed, be sure to head to Auckland Fish Market’s Bang Bang Kitchen come lunchtime. Inspired by the Hawker markets in Singapore and Malaysia, Bang Bang Kitchen is expert at Asian-fusion flavours. Choose from dishes such as warming laksa, lobster fried rice and prawn har gow, or take advantage of lunch specials like crispy pork or Peking duck on rice.
Sunny Town
Sunny Town Don’t be put off by the queues at this Lorne Street hot spot, Sunny Town is just the ticket when you’re in need of some noodles, stat. Once you’ve secured your seat and ordered, food arrives almost instantaneously in the form of soft, pillowy pork and vegetable buns, juicy prawn shao-mai and numbingly good dandan noodles. Eat eagerly and exit with intent, ensuring the next lucky luncher can have their fill.
Caffetteria Allpress There’s something to be said about the classics, like having a good old fashioned sandwich for lunch. Drake Street’s Caffetteria Allpress has the sando down pat, with fillings changing daily plus a few favourites like the Reuben and the tuna, egg and mayo gaining mainstay status. We can recommend the chicken sandwich if it’s available — a feat of sandwich engineering combining moist, mayo-y chicken with crunchy salad and sourdough for a fresh, never soggy sandwich.
Spectra
Spectra Situated in the expansive Sky Lobby of Commercial Bay’s impressive PwC Tower, Spectra is a recently-opened daytime eatery providing the perfect space to sit down for a business lunch or grab something on the go. Peruse the array of tasty cabinet treats, or choose something from the thoughtfully refined all-day breakfast or lunch menu. Our pick is the ‘The Plate’, a simple, healthy option where you choose your protein (sirloin, chicken or market fish) and pair it with the salad of the day. Easy as that.
Paper Crane If you’re near Wynyard Quarter, you’ll find delicious Asian-fusion offerings at Paper Crane. The menu showcases many Asian favourites, from steamed baos, to sashimi, donburis, and of course noodles. Our recommendation is the misoyaki salmon on rice. Both takeaway and dine-in-friendly, Paper Crane offers local workers a reliably excellent eatery, and also a great location for meetings.
Hello Mister Vietnamese cuisine is associated with quick, fresh, light, yet very tasty food, which explains Hello Mister’s popularity, with locations on Hardinge Street and Customs Street West in the city. During the hot summertime, we opt for the rice paper rolls, particularly with tofu or Peking duck fillings. If you request them to go, you can take a short stroll and enjoy their succulent flavour in nearby Victoria Park. By contrast, when winter rolls around, it’s the phở that calls us to pull up a chair and dine-in.
Toss
Toss Specialising in healthy salads, Toss’ wholesome bowls make it easy to eat your greens. The ‘Post-Workout’ salad is a virtuous choice with or without the aforementioned exercise, combining several varieties of salad greens, free-range chicken, avocado, feta, quarters of perfectly boiled egg and green goddess dressing. With a range of warm bowls, wraps, smoothies, toast and a soup of the day, there’s a lot to love at this Wellesley Street West spot.
Luna Cafe & Eatery If a lunchtime craving for bánh mì strikes, look no further Luna Cafe in Chancery Square. From the bread to the pâté, everything in this Vietnamese sandwich is made from scratch, making it one of the best bánh mì in Auckland.
Yume
Yume Hidden away on Vernon Street, Yume (formerly known as Haru no Yume) provides all manner of fresh and tasty Japanese favourites for inner-city workers. Inviting to dine in and easy to take away, Yume has an irresistible cabinet of sushi and tempura available per piece, plus bento boxes, ramen and udon. We can’t go past the tuna poke bowl with rice, pickles, salad and spicy gochujang sauce.
Food Truck Garage On days when you’re feeling totally uninspired come lunchtime, trot along to always trusty (and tasty) Food Truck Garage in City Works Depot. Along with the signature burgers and tacos, we rate the Redergize bowl, a virtuous combination of baby spinach, quinoa, beetroot, carrot, flax seeds, cranberry and miso dressing. Add free-range chicken and this health-conscious lunch will see you satiated and ready to spring over that afternoon slump.
Best Ugly Bagels Typically this New York staple leans on the heavier side of the lunch scales but it’s a different story when it comes to Best Ugly Bagels. Instead of the usual dense Big Apple-style, the bagels here follow the Montreal method with a lighter texture of bread that is topped, rather than filled. The classics are as good as the first day we tried them, with the likes of King Salmon (salmon, cream cheese, red onion, capers) and Yodi (pastrami, habanero mustard, grilled Swiss and an obligatory pickle) remaining forever favourites.
Scarecrow With a florist located right next door, the combination of the warmly-lit cafe and grocery store makes you feel as though you’ve entered a small village when you visit Scarecrow — a charm that is hard to come by in the heart of the city. As a favourite breakfast destination, lunch at Victoria Street East’s Scarecrow shouldn’t be overlooked. Simply yet deliciously executed, the menu spans the likes of fancy toasties (think artisanal cheese and heirloom tomato), pasta, risotto, potato latkes and tomato tarte tatin.
A sweet, petite caravan out West is serving up tasty bites and excellent coffee to Avondale locals, and it’s proving humble set-ups can be deceiving (and delicious). Named Ol’ Mate, this unconventional cafe-on-wheels offers both sweet and savoury baked goods, sandwiches and salads that have already drummed up a host of loyal regulars since it opened in November last year.
Co-owned by pastry chef Claudia Long and barista Bree Bauer, with Long’s partner Ryan Pearce (also a chef) helping out as needed, Ol’ Mate can be permanently found at 1855 Great North Road, Tuesday through Saturday. Long and Pearce previously owned another Avondale cafe, Te Whau, where Bauer worked for them as their barista, and the three enjoyed working together so much that collaborating for this project seemed like a no-brainer.
From left: Famous cheese scones; Date Welsh cakes with cream cheese and roasted apricot
They all have a lot on their plates — Long also has Sweet Cheeks NZ, another small baking business she runs on Instagram, and Pearce is the full-time chef at The Mercury Plaza Refreshment Room, where Ol’ Mate’s food is also prepped by Long. “It’s all a very unique situation outside our comfort zone,” says Long. “But, if anything was learnt from 2020 in our industry it’s getting creative with whatever opportunities come your way!”
The idea behind Ol’ Mate’s offering is “simple done well, with a few boundaries pushed here and there as we go along.” Long’s cheese scones often sell out by 10am (she’ll usually come across town with another batch), and she says both her ginger crunch and burnt white chocolate and tahini blondie have ardent fans. A new take on a Welsh cake has also proved popular, sandwiched with cream cheese and roasted apricots.
From left: Ryan Pearce, Claudia Long, Bree Bauer; Cheese and pickle toasted sandwich
From a perfectly juicy chicken and mayo sandwich to a cheese and pickle toastie, wholesome yet filling salads and bacon and egg pies, customers have all manner of delicious morsels enticing them from inside the cabinet. Washed down with Bauer’s excellent coffee, we can’t think of much else we’d rather eat for breakfast or lunch.
The Ol’ Mate team aims to link with local community food initiatives like Kai Avondale whenever possible, donating leftover food and baking for events when time allows, and this is something Long says they’d like to grow. Avondale is home for the trio, who have enjoyed being able to reconnect with diners who were fans of Te Whau. “It’s been really nice to welcome back all our old customers who used to come to the last spot,” says Long. “It’s like we never left!”
A concept that bloomed when YongWoo Shim returned to Korea to visit his family, Mighty Hotdog was the realisation of a dream to bring Korean-style hot dogs to Kiwis. So passionate was the founder about his idea, that he left his career as an ex-professional golfer and golf instructor, to spend a number of months in Korea (sometimes working in kitchens for free) mastering the art of making these unique delicacies before returning home with a new set of skills and a delicious vision.
From left: Mighty Kumara with sausage and kumara; Cheese Rocket with cheese and sausage; Mighty Potato with sausage and potato
A beloved street food in its country of origin, the Korean hot dog has been gaining a global following for its mouthwatering balance of sweet and savoury flavours. More like a corndog in appearance, the Korean iteration is typically coated in batter, deep-fried and usually finished in sugar for an effect that is perfectly indulgent.
At Mighty Hotdog, YongWoo Shim wanted to perfect his version of the Korean hot dog by replacing the more traditional ingredients with locally-sourced ones instead. Originally launching Mighty Hotdog at the Glenfield Night Markets and cultivating an enthusiastic following, YongWoo Shim has finally set his concept up with its own permanent space in the CBD — where it has proved an instant hit with hungry punters.
From left: Mighty Potato; Inside the Crunch Bites; Choose from a variety of self-serve sauces
On the menu, simple hot dogs like the Cheese Rocket (a bestseller, comprising half cheese, half sausage) and the Mozzarella (filled with gooey mozzarella and nothing else) sit alongside more complex options like the Mighty Potato (sausage coated in chunky potato), the Crunch Bites (with a melted cheese filling and coated in cornflakes) and the Nacho (also cheese-filled but this time covered in crispy nacho pieces). All hot dogs come with the highly recommended option of a sprinkling of sugar on top, as well your choice of self-serve sauces such as ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise and barbecue.
For anyone who sits at the sweeter end of the sweet-savoury spectrum, Mighty Hotdog’s Chocolate Hotdog (filled with melted Moro) and Choc Peanut Hotdog (filled with melted Snickers) are also a must-try. And we aren’t the only ones who think so.
Since Mighty Hotdog opened, its tasty morsels have accrued such a following that queues have come to be expected around the lunchtime and early evening rush, and people seem more than happy to wait. Our suggestion? Get down there close to opening or mid-afternoon, and if you have to wait, rest assured that it will all be worth it.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Thursday: 12pm — 9pm Friday and Saturday: 12pm — 10pm Sunday: 12pm — 9pm
Looking to deliver a modern twist on traditional Indian cuisine, Mr Spicer is Ponsonby Road’s newest resident, located on the Grey Lynn end of the popular strip in the space of a previously abandoned Indian restaurant. “We wanted to change things up,” Darshil Patel says, explaining the approach he and his family took when they started to put their idea for a new type of Indian restaurant into action. “We thought it was important to speak to contemporary Indian street culture, while still capturing the traditional flavours we knew and loved, but we still wanted it to feel like a casual dining experience.”
Indeed, Mr Spicer is shaking things up with food that packs the kind of flavourful punch we would expect, but in a fresh and original way. The menu ranges from sharing plates like aromatic Roadside Samosa Chaat, Masala Chilli Corn, Goan Fried Chicken and Buttery Street Fries (fries with butter sauce, onion and melted cheese) to larger dishes like Lamb Vindaloo, Dal Makhni and Mr Spicer’s signature Makhan (Butter) Chicken. From the grill, Gunpowder Prawns, Spicy Lamb Chops, Tandoori Chicken and more offer hearty bursts of chargrilled flavour which pair perfectly with sides like garlic or cheese or butter naan, Masala Papadum or Tandoori Roti.
This idea of Indian with a contemporary twist continues on the drinks menu, where Patel tells me his father (a strong proponent of traditional Indian flavours) insisted on including beverages like ‘Thumbs Up’ and ‘Limca’ (both classic drinks from his home country) alongside a raft of delicious and refreshing cocktails.
Inside, Patel and his family have transformed Mr Spicer’s space into a lively affair, reflecting the vibrancy of its food in a fit-out teeming with colour and texture. Inspired by traditional Indian design, particularly the colours and architecture of Rajasthan, the walls are drenched in vivid azure blue (a common pigment found in early Indian architecture), while pops of electric yellow and chilli red are speckled throughout the space. “The fit-out was a family effort,” Patel says, “if you look closely, you’ll be able to see brush strokes in the vintage matchbox posters painted to the bar-front, and a pile of discarded paintbrushes out back from the many evenings spent painting together.”
From great hardship often comes great resilience and wisdom, and the sentiment could not be more true for Jazz Thornton. The 25-year-old has fought and overcome mental illness, childhood abuse and multiple suicide attempts to become a force for positive change in the mental health sector, both locally and abroad. Now working tirelessly as a mental health advocate and activist, Thornton has co-founded the Voices of Hope charity with Genevieve Mora, bringing awareness and destigmatising mental illnesses that are, unfortunately, far more common than we might realise. An award-winning filmmaker (Jessica’s Tree), Thornton this year was the subject of another social impact film titled The Girl on the Bridge, released worldwide.
She also published her first book, Stop Surviving Start Fighting, in March, and has co-written another with Mora, due out in January; has presented in front of the World Leaders of the UN General Assembly; was invited to have coffee with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle; and, if that’s not enough, Voices of Hope received the Commonwealth Points of Light award this year, which was created by the Queen, as the Head of the Commonwealth, to thank inspirational volunteers for making a difference in their communities.
Far from resting on her laurels, Thornton is just getting started — here, the inspiring activist shares pearls of wisdom from her journey in life thus far and in advocacy, from advice and goals to key comforts and tools.
Happiness is waking up excited for life.
It’s okay to be down. Everyone feels down at times. But it’s always important that you speak up if you are.
It’s not about battling your past, but fighting for your future. We can spend so long battling the things that have happened to us, and that can prevent us from looking forward and moving forward, so once you start to learn to fight for your future it becomes a lot easier to fight through.
The biggest thing I learned through the process of filming The Girl on the Bridge was that it’s not our job to save people. I think, especially being in advocacy like I am, and even just with our friends — when someone tells you that something is wrong, often our first instinct is to fix it, and to save people. But, I figured out through the filming process that we can’t save people, what we can do is walk alongside them and help them save themselves.
My friends would describe me as outgoing, bubbly, but also very aware of what’s going on. When I see people in pain, I recognise it a lot more, because of my work and because of my life.
The three most important tools I rely on for good mental health are a good support network, exercise has been really big for me recently, and routine. Routine is everything. I know that when my room starts to get messy my mind is a mess, and especially through Covid, being able to stick to a routine is so important for my mental wellbeing.
One of the most important things I’ve learned this year is that people want vulnerability. For a long time when I was advocating I would do my best to portray the strong, brave person that had gotten through everything and was fighting for everyone else, but there were times when I would be struggling and I would never share that because I had this perception that the public and the people following me needed me to be that person all the time. But, for people to know that actually, everyone, (even those who are out advocating for others), still struggle as well, is important.
I’m most proud of being able to fight through to have the life that I have now. The accomplishments, the awards, the movie and all that stuff is great, but for me, waking up and knowing that I can be excited for life is something that I had to fight really hard for, and I think if everything else went away and I didn’t have the external awards et cetera, I would still be so content.
When I want to have a laugh, my favourite thing to do is binge-watch Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
The biggest goal for me at the moment is being able to get global funding secured for mental health. The budget that we spend on mental health globally is less than the budget of one Avengers movie. For me, it’s going from just talking about it to going back in front of the UN and demanding tangible change.
Something I wish was more commonly accepted about mental health is that mental health is more than just anxiety and depression. They are the most commonly talked about, but when we talk about mental health we can also be talking about bipolar and borderline eating disorders. At the moment we still see them as just “crazy”, but those are also mental health conditions and they need to be talked about as such.
I think we need to be putting more funding into early intervention. We’ve seen a lot of budgets allocated, but not a lot of it spent, which is like saying “oh I’m going to buy a new car”, but until you actually buy a new car, the money’s just sitting there and you don’t have a new car, right? It’s the same thing, the government is saying “hey, we’ve got all this money for mental health” but without actually spending it and putting it into systems, nothing’s changing. So, more action on their promises that they’ve put through.
My ultimate comfort meal is anything to do with potatoes. I love fries, baked potato, mashed potato, all forms of potato. I was on Instagram Live recently, and said that I liked potatoes, and about ten minutes later there were about 50 fan accounts that were like @potatojazzthornton.
When I want to relax, I have a phone lockbox which I love using. Because all my work is on my phone and we are attached to these things, I put my phone away in a lockbox for an hour. I love going for forest walks, going to the beach, hanging out with friends and doing things that aren’t intensely work related.
I’d like my legacy to be one in which people can see that I didn’t just talk about change, but created it. I don’t want to be the person who blasts on social media or will stand up on a stage but then won’t go out and be part of activating the change.
It’s trending to be an advocate now, which is a great thing, but I think that if you’re advocating on social media but you won’t pick up the phone and call a friend, then what are you really doing?
I consider myself to be real. I aspire to be, and I hope I fulfill that. I’m someone who isn’t living a curated life.
When I look back over the last couple of years, I’ve done a TV show, a movie, two books, and it just keeps going but I love it because I’m just seeing hundreds of thousands of people around the world finding hope, and as long as people are finding hope I’ll never stop.
My advice to anyone struggling is: the current world crisis doesn’t dismiss anything you’re going through. In a time like being in a global pandemic, we can feel like we aren’t justified in feeling the way we’re feeling, or it’s not as bad, but you don’t have to do this by yourself, you’re deserving of help, and it’s okay to reach out.
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