Looking for the perfect gift for the movie buff? This innovative projector delivers an immersive cinema experience at home

With the level of technology used to make film as advanced as it is these days, it seems a shame to experience a dulled-down version on a regular TV screen (even if that screen is high-definition and has all the mod cons). For some, it’s an even more basic set-up of the old faithful laptop propped up on the duvet. Cosy, sure, but an immersive, big-picture cinematic experience? Hardly. 

With its new 4K Ultra Short Throw laser projector, The Premiere, Samsung is offering just that. Available in two models, it is the world’s first HDR10+ certified projector, delivering contrast and detail from both bright and dark scenes, with a peak brightness of up to 2,800 lumens as measured by the American National Standards Institute (or ANSI).

It has two models available — the LSP7T single laser projector, with an up to 120-inch screen size, and the LSP9T, which boasts triple laser technology with an up to 130-inch image size.

Wherever one wishes to position it in the house — whether close to the wall or further away to adjust the screen size — The Premiere is versatile and easy to use, with ultra-short throw laser technology and a sleek, compact design that fits into any living room arrangement.

TV shows, sports games and movies alike all benefit from premium sound quality, with two built-in woofers, two tweeters and Samsung’s Acoustic Beam technology. Whether it’s a full-scale action sequence you’re watching or a more intimate scene, you’re in for a fully immersive experience.

With Christmas around the corner, we think the Premiere is a brilliant idea for a gift — and we suggest gifting this to someone with whom you share an abode, so you too can benefit from the groundbreaking cinematic technology. Movie nights in never looked so magnificent.

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From waterfront wonders to perennial favourites, these are the best celebration restaurants to toast to your successes

If you’ve missed any milestones of late (or just want to acknowledge our still-novel liberty), we recommend gathering your friends and family for some long overdue wining, dining and general good timing at these lauded restaurants.

Ahi
Ben Bayly’s restaurant celebrates New Zealand food with a story, and thanks to its incredible dishes and Commercial Bay corner site overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, you’ll be in the mood for celebrating as soon as you walk through the doors.

Cibo
Whether taking the air in the private courtyard or ensconced inside, diners at Cibo always feel like the most important person in the room, as they enjoy its elegant, seasonal cuisine. 

Jervois Steak House
For when only a perfectly cooked cut and a side of finely polished ambience will do, head to Jervois Steak House, which also happens to be celebrating its 15th anniversary.

Lillius
Whether you choose a set menu or à la carte, prepare to be wowed by the thoughtful execution of Lillius’ innovative fine dining dishes — its welcoming setting a refined contrast to its urban location.

Masu
Honoured affairs need not exclude any of your nearest and dearest at this family-friendly Japanese robata restaurant and bar, with a passion for freshness and flavour.

Mr Morris
Each touchpoint of Michael Meredith’s Britomart restaurant will have you feeling more at ease than the last, from the polished yet affable service to the food that celebrates the best of the Pacific. 

Onslow
Refined yet relaxed, an easy elegance touches everything at Onslow. No matter the occasion, big or small, timeless fare and warm service will make it one to remember.

The Engine Room
The beloved Northcote Point institution makes a point of exceptional experiences for all. There’s no better feeling than toasting the good times knowing a plate of its comforting fare is on the way. 

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Here’s why this limited-edition New Zealand Dry Riesling is the sip of the season

Picture this — you’ve just clocked off for Christmas and there is a light breeze in the air as the sun starts to set. Your party decides to dine outdoors, with a refreshing drop of wine that shines. Encapsulating the essence of summer, the Dry Riesling 2021 from Butterworth Estate pairs exceptionally well with long evenings such as these.

Notes of rockmelon, lime blossom and lemon zest leap forward from the glass. With an extraordinary length to the finish, it lingers for a memorable mouthful. Especially special, the Dry Riesling is crafted from hand-pruned and hand-harvested produce from Butterworth Estate’s home block vineyard on Te Muna Road in Martinborough. With a very limited number of bottles available (1500 to be exact) securing a bottle (or a few) ensures summer reveries like these can become a crisp reality.

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Hello Beasty's Ruakaka Kingfish with whipped avocado, sudachi and buttermilk dressing. Photo: Luke Foley-Martin.

From scampi to scallops, these are simply the best seafood-centric dishes to seek out this summer

When it comes to summer dining, we think you’d be hard-pressed to find anything better than Aotearoa’s abundant offering of kai moana, and the local chefs who do brilliant things with it. To help guide your craving, we’ve homed in on some of the best seafood dishes to seek out this summer.

Ruakaka Kingfish from Hello Beasty
This new addition to Hello Beasty’s menu is far more beauty than beast, comprising exquisitely fresh pieces of kingfish crudo paired with perfectly balanced flavours of whipped avocado, radish, pickled daikon, buttermilk and sudachi dressing (sudachi is a small, lime-like Japanese fruit), and wakame.

Smoked Scallops Grilled on Lava Stone from La Marée
These fragrant morsels see balsamic, beetroot, lemon caviar and horopito join expertly-grilled scallops in each harmoniously complex bite.

Scampi Corndogs from Ahi
Everything tastes better in batter, including juicy, impressively-sized scampi. This dish is worth ordering for the dipping sauce alone.

Paua Risotto from Onemata
Amidst an array of dishes that showcase the best of Aotearoa’s ingredients, this risotto is a stand-out with miso butter, shiitake mushroom and onsen egg complementing the delicate paua.

Buttermilk Blue Cod Wings from Kingi
Roll up your sleeves and tuck into a plate of these tasty wings — crunchy on the outside, moist and flaky on the inside, the only bad part is when it’s over.

Fiordland Crayfish Eclairs from Onslow
Creamy lobster, air-light eclair and a hint of basil combine for a bite-sized delight that is incredibly moreish.

Oysters from Depot
It’s hard to choose just one thing from Depot’s excellent raw bar, which includes the likes of clams, kingfish and our must-try — oysters. Take your pick from three local varieties (or try them all). Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.

Chipotle Prawn BLAT from The Crab Shack
A soft buttered roll houses juicy prawns and crispy bacon, avocado, lettuce and tomato in this sandwich of our dreams. Doused with spicy mayo, it’s the perfect amount of creamy with a kick.

Mussel Escabeche from Bar Magda
From Bar Magda’s Filipino-inspired fare, this mussel escabeche is a suitably refreshing dish on its ‘something cold’ menu. Served with green garlic sauce and pickled fennel, it’s bright, savoury and fresh.

Smoked Trevally Rillettes from Atelier
From Karangahape Road newcomer Atelier, this smoked trevally rillettes dip is perfect for spreading on its special Daily Bread sourdough — topped with fried capers and salmon caviar, and paired with cornichons, there’s balance to every bite.

Grilled Snapper from Soul Bar & Bistro
There’s a lot to be said for simplicity, and a perfectly cooked piece of fish often hits the spot. Soul’s grilled snapper is served with a delicious and colourful confit tomato and saffron sauce.

Seafood Platter from Ostro
The freshest catch sings on this loaded seafood platter, comprising local battered and fresh oysters, Skull Island prawns, trevally ceviche, tuna and smoked green lip mussels — served with flavoursome dressings and dipping sauces. This dish is summer on a plate.

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Editors Picks: Discover the new-season style staples the Denizen team is loving right now

We can’t be the only ones who are in a constant “shopping mood” of late. With festive season in full swing, combined with what we’ll admit is a spot of literal retail therapy in an effort to cheer ourselves up while we can’t easily travel overseas (yet), creates the perfect conditions for an updated wardrobe. Plus, we need something to wear out to those newly re-opened restaurants and bars, don’t we?

It’s also our job to know what’s out there and what you should be buying — and we can’t help it if we influence ourselves along the way. From chic utilitarian ensembles to artful yet neutral romanticism and a going-out look, these are the outfits the Denizen team is dreaming of currently, available locally from both homegrown and international brands.

Clockwise: Tiffany & Co. Double Row Hinged bangle, Camilla and Marc Alina Midi dress, Victoria Beckham Brow Aviator sunglasses from Parker & Co., Nature’s Light Diamond Clover stud earrings from Sutcliffe Jewellers, Louis Vuitton LV Volt curb chain bracelet, Loewe Flamenco Clutch Mini bag from Faradays, Proenza Schouler Pipe Strappy Sandal in Oak from Muse Boutique, Elle + Riley Whitney Striped Cashmere crew.
Clockwise: Camilla and Marc Kyra shirt, Matteau Summer chino from Muse Boutique, Christian Dior DiorSignature Cat-Eye sunglasses from Parker & Co., Saint Laurent Graduated Chain necklace, Proenza Schouler Pipe stretch-knit slides from Net-A-Porter,
Loewe Gate Small bag from Faradays.
Clockwise: Paris Georgia Audrey Mini, Alexander McQueen Cropped Ribbed Cotton Sweater from Net-A-Porter, Georgia Jay Little Ombra bag, Christopher Esber Reversed Magnum hoop from Muse Boutique, Entire Studios Slice leggings, Isabel Marant Amifa Strappy sandal from Workshop.
Clockwise: Celine Cat-Eye Acetate sunglasses from Parker & Co., Ganni high-waisted, relaxed fit jean from Workshop, Christian Dior D-Club slide, Victoria Victoria Beckham The Victoria tee from Muse Boutique, Bottega Veneta Pouch Leather clutch from Mytheresa, Loulou Studio Espanto Cotton Shirt from Workshop.
Clockwise: Alemais Emma Gale Shirtdress from Muse Boutique, Christian Dior sunglasses from Parker & Co., Isabel Marant Estelle Mohair Sweater from Workshop, Bronwyn Stevie Slides, Bottega Veneta Chain Cassette Bag, Jasmin Sparrow Amie Drop Earrings.

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Best in Beauty 2021: Become a makeup master with these prime products to add to your top shelf

Put your best face forward with our discerning selection of marvellous makeup products, encompassing both new cosmetic crushes and cult favourites. What they all have in common, is their high-powered formulations and impeccable useability, meaning you don’t have to be a bona fide artiste to succeed with these beauty bastions.

Status Symbol: Hermès Nail Enamel
Since launching Hermès Beauty in March last year, the heritage luxury company has set a new and beautiful bar for opulence in cosmetics. It has dipped its polished fingers into a new range of high-performing nail enamels and hand care, with quintessentially chic, Pierre Hardy-designed packaging. The Les Mains Hermès range is available in 24 unique shades; each one of which contains ultra-fine, ultra-saturated biosourced pigments.

Lush Lashes: DiorShow Iconic Overcurl Mascara 
A master of reinvention, the DiorShow Iconic Overcurl mascara has been re-released to provide even more volume and curl. It defines, coats and fans out lashes with its faceted brush for longer-looking lashes and larger eyes. Enriched with cotton nectar, the formula also helps lashes become stronger and shinier in the blink of an eye.

Best Base: IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream
The award-winning IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream (with SPF 50) was developed by plastic surgeons to deliver clinically tested hydration, while diffusing the appearance of skin imperfections. What’s left is flawless coverage that won’t crease or crack. Infused with hydrolysed collagen, peptides, niacin, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and vitamins, it covers all bases.

It’s in the Eyes: Byredo 5 Colour Eyeshadow Palette
When it comes to modern makeup, you’d do well to play up those peepers with all this mask-wearing. Byredo’s luxurious cosmetics range not only comes in incredible packaging but its formulas and shades are also suitably unique. We’ll be dipping our brush into Corporate Colours (pictured), with the perfect shades for both daytime and after dark.

The Glow Getter: Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter
Now we can get our hands on beloved British brand Charlotte Tilbury, we’re reaching for the Flawless Filter. Inspired by Hollywood lighting effects (which the eponymous founder has worked under as a makeup artist to the stars), it illuminates the skin while blurring and smoothing. It can be worn alone, or in any combination with your favourite foundation.

Couture Coverage: Chanel Le Correcteur de Longwear Concealer
The secret agent in our makeup bag, Chanel’s Le Correcteur blurs imperfections, diminishes the appearance of dark circles and brightens up the eyes, while being supple and comfortable for long wear. Enriched with an energising active ingredient and a light-reflecting pigment, the moisturising formula can also illuminate the eye area for up to eight hours.

Raise Your Brows: Kosas Air Brow Clear Lifting Brow Treatment Gel
From the makeup brand created with skincare priorities, this clear brow gel is a one sweep wonder for those who like a naturally groomed brow. Biodegradable, plant-based fibres and a triangular spoolie promise to lift each hair and hold them in place through each and every expression.

Clever Contour: Westman Atelier Face Trace Contour Stick
Founded by lauded American makeup artist Gucci Westman, Westman Atelier is a luxurious beauty brand that favours vegan, high-performing formulas and conscious ingredients. The Face Trace Contour Stick is brilliant for those who like a natural contour, gliding on easily with a neutral taupe undertone that never appears orange or ashy.

Finishing Touch: Sisley Phyto-Lip Twist 
Coloured like a lipstick and shiny like a gloss, Sisley’s Phyto-Lip Twist tinted balm, with nourishing plant-based active ingredients, is a best-selling trifecta. Following the rules of threes, the new shades for summer — Rosy Nude, Soft Berry and True Red — will help you create a divine lip proportion. 

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6 summer essentials every man should have in his holiday wardrobe

It’s been a long hard road to the promised holiday lands this year. From Burberry bucket hats to Balenciaga beach towels, enhance your sense of a great escape by trying on these aesthetic accessories that are sure to deliver the laidback luxe you deserve.

Left to right: Bather Bouquet Marble swim shorts from Workshop, BB Dark Navy Beach towel from Balenciaga.

1. The Smart Swimmers
Swim shorts are an undisputed holiday uniform, whether you take the plunge or not. The Canadian-based label Bather has configured the perfect pair, with a fine four-way stretch mesh lining, made to move with you.

2. The Bold Beach Towel
Whether on the boat or the beach, create an island of comfort wherever you lie with a particularly plush beach towel. Balenciaga’s towelling, in cushioning sponge cotton, is both vivid and sophisticated. 

Left to right: Monogram Print Nylon bucket hat from Burberry, Buttercup Yellow bucket hat from Moncler, Acne Studios Face Twill bucket hat from Workshop, Re-Nylon backpack from Prada.

3. The Bucket Hat-Trick
Worn by street stylers the world over, the bucket hat is no longer just the domain of Dad’s head during fishing trips. Wear it anywhere, anytime for some serious street cred.

4. The Designer Beach Bag
Play it close to your chest with a hands-free beach bag. Prada’s sunshine yellow regenerated nylon backpack is made from plastic trash found floating in the ocean.

Left to right: Graphic T-Shirt from Moncler, Embroidered Mockneck Tee from Louis Vuitton, Moscot Fliptosh sunglasses from Parker & Co.

5. The Tactful T-Shirt
While there is always a place in your wardrobe for a plain white tee, wearing your sartorial allegiances on your chest delivers an opportunity to exude a fashionable flex.

6. The Sleek Shades
Limited layers make changing your look a challenge in the heat, with the onus often falling on accessories. Enter flip sunglasses, which can be worn with shades secured to the lenses, or flicked up with finesse.

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Louis Vuitton arrives at Westfield Newmarket, opening the doors to its sumptuous new boutique

French heritage luxury house Louis Vuitton is known for its enduring link to extraordinary voyages. Its latest destination sees its iconic pieces within reach of an ever-growing base of style-savvy New Zealanders, with the opening of its brand new boutique in Westfield Newmarket.

Located on level 1 of the Westfield Living Centre, Louis Vuitton joins the stellar line-up of luxury brands that include Balenciaga and Burberry; Moncler and Mulberry; Saint Laurent, Partridge Jewellers and Alexander McQueen. 

Before one even steps foot inside the doors, the House’s emblematic symbols are brought to the fore, with the exterior swathed in an eye-catching metal mesh that was inspired by Louis Vuitton’s iconic Damier pattern.

Inside, the boutique’s design builds on the blueprint first established by American Architect Peter Marino, who has worked with the brand on their stores since 1994. Locally-made furniture and artworks from local artists like Max Gimblett and James Cousins are discerningly curated to complement the signature styles stocked within.

There is a comprehensive selection available to discover in-store, from women’s and men’s ready-to-wear to leather goods, shoes to fragrances, watches, jewellery and accessories. For those requiring a more bespoke experience, personalised shopping can be arranged in the exclusive, private salon.

While we barely needed another excuse to plan a shopping trip, Louis Vuitton’s Westfield Newmarket boutique has us readying our wishlists with much enthusiasm.

Louis Vuitton

Shop S181, Level 1
Westfield Newmarket
277 Broadway
Newmarket, 1023

www.louisvuitton.com

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Partridge Jewellers opens the doors to its new luxury boutique in Newmarket, and sparkles as far as the eye can see

The iconic Partridge Jewellers is putting another jewel in its crown, opening an elegant new boutique built on its shining 150-year history. Known for carrying many of the world’s most sought-after names in watches and jewellery — including its own exquisitely crafted jewellery line — the Partridge boutique will mark a new era for the family business’ lineage.

Located in Westfield Newmarket, next to the likes of Balenciaga, Saint Laurent and Louis Vuitton, the indulgent backdrop is also setting a new benchmark for prestigious New Zealand brands.

“As the only New Zealand-owned brand located within this area of the Westfield development, we can’t wait to deliver a stunning line-up of watches and jewellery among some of the world’s most renowned names in luxury retail,” says Grant Partridge.

The new boutique is brought to life by leading interior design firm Izzard Design, which has recently completed fit-outs of Partridge Jewellers’ Queen Street and Lambton Quay stores as well. A melding of the contemporary and the traditional, much like what is found in the gleaming cabinets, the ambient space has a rich palette of natural veined marble, velvets and aged brass.

“We wanted to invite people into a space that had a sense of hospitality, slow down the pace of retail,” explains Senior Designer Hannah Davies. “You can sit at the bar and really enjoy the experience of buying a beautiful piece of jewellery or a watch.”

The expansive new space welcomes many new brands to Partridge’s Newmarket stable, including De Beers Forevermark’s inscribed diamond designs, Omega’s Swiss luxury timepieces and Cartier’s unique collections of fine jewellery, alongside the esteemed Panerai, Jaeger-LeCoultre, IWC, Breitling and Chopard.

For the first time in New Zealand, Piaget will be available to view at the store. Since 1874, Piaget has combined a jeweller’s refinement with its watchmaking nous to craft luxury treasures. Given Partridge Jewellers has been in operation since 1864, the new relationship between these two heritage brands is sure to make a lasting impact.

Another gem for Partridge, and New Zealand, is the celebrity-adored vintage and contemporary jewels from Fred Leighton — coming soon. Known to transcend time and place, the coveted collection is a reflection of Partridge’s multi-faceted and eternal sparkle.

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Church Road Chief Winemaker Chris Scott.

Having added 2021 Wine of the Year to its many accolades, Church Road continues to craft with excellence

The famed ancient saying “in vino veritas” means “in wine there is truth”. While some interpretations infer that whoever speaks such truths has had a few glasses of the good stuff themselves, it was with clear-headed clarity that the judges of Winestate’s 2021 Wine of the Year Awards crowned Hawke’s Bay winery Church Road with a slew of its most prestigious accolades. 

Among the impressive honours, Chief Winemaker Chris Scott won New Zealand Winemaker of the Year for an unprecedented fourth time, and Church Road’s Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2019 won both Wine of the Year and Chardonnay of the Year. 

Produced from the very best vineyards across Hawke’s Bay and, for the first time in 2021 Pinot Noir from Central Otago, Church Road Grand Reserve wines represent the excellence of New Zealand wine, reflecting the exceptional terroir, considered viticulture and masterful winemaking. 

From left: Chief Winemaker Chris Scott; Church Road Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2019.

After winning Winemaker of the Year in 2013, 2016, 2020 and 2021, Scott is understandably delighted. “Winning Winemaker of the Year is a real privilege, and to win it four times is just incredible. It’s such a great testament to the efforts of the entire team here,” he says. “They’re a great bunch of incredibly talented people and it is through everyone’s dedication and skill that we achieve the results that we do.”

It’s also testament to Hawke’s Bay’s ability to produce wines that are among the finest in the world, he says, and doing their bit to help demonstrate that has made the team incredibly proud. 

The Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2019, in particular, has won several local and international accolades for its full-bodied yet finely textured character, great length and complexity. Flavourful and multidimensional, it has a core of ripe stonefruit and fragrant citrus, overlaid with aromas of roasted nuts, toasted brioche, a subtle creaminess and a hint of smoke.

It wasn’t just the lighter grapes that got their due in this year’s awards; 2021 Merlot of the Year went to Church Road’s 2019 Grand Reserve Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon.

So, should you be looking for a sublime sip to see you through summer, you can be sure that the aforementioned from Church Road come very highly recommended indeed.

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