Office Christmas parties inhabit a realm where the liquid soundtrack of alcohol is a bittersweet symphony of memories made and reputations ruined. A cacophony formed of the sounds of someone falling ass-first off a table, someone being promised an empty promotion, someone being promised an empty sofa, someone sloppily slapping Ross from IT in the mouth (with their mouth) and Susan from HR applying a projectile application of ‘yuletide glee’ to a completely defenceless sidewalk.
This corporate Christmas season, consider these simple etiquette tweaks and conquer the annual office experiment unscathed.
Marketing
Whether you work in the marketing department or not, you should know the basic warning signs of a public relations disaster, not just for your company, but for yourself. It is recommended you go through at least two (sober) friends before making any decisions prior to and during the event. Always side with conservatism (not the deplorable kind) in consumption, conversation and especially fancy dress.
Drinking
An ‘open bar’ is not a race against time, and by time we mean sobriety, because you will always lose. Know your limits, even if you know the company’s budget boundaries are about to cut spirits from the menu. If after two drinks you are confident, five drinks loose and loveable, and seven a wild card, set the bar for the three to six mark by telling the bartender when to cut you off… for health reasons — the health of your career, that is.
Eating
It’s easy to accidentally head straight to a party with nothing in your stomach if your usual routine is to eat dinner at home. But if you eat before your first sip, not only will you have a lower blood alcohol content and feel less drunk, but you’ll also sober up more quickly. Remember; carbs and dairy. Carbs to fill your stomach and dairy to line it, think French, or Italian.
Party Tricks
Again, apply the PR theory as to whether or not you should choose an all-office event to debut your party piece. While it is indeed possible you possess the dance moves of a young Michael Jackson, should you really do the splits, here, now, in that outfit?
Hold Your Tongue
Once yearly, the company heads descend from their ivory tower to walk amongst the people. The time and place for a frank discussion of your company’s failings is in a trite PowerPoint attached to a three-page email no one will ever read the entirety of. NOT as a hate-filled harangue in which you take your actual opinions to your actual employer at the actual office Christmas party.
Sins of the Flesh
Leave your sins at home. Becoming ‘involved’ with colleagues is sincerely frowned upon in a social setting. Sneaking back to the privacy of the office bay windows is even worse. The publicised rule goes that unless you have consciously (soberly) admired a co-worker from afar for a minimum of at least three months, then it is probably best not to engage with them at all. Ideally, you will also apply the PR filter of asking the advice of two sober friends beforehand.
Coming Clean
In some settings, the social lubricant of alcohol can suddenly turn on you and become a serum of truth. Your willingness to open up is venerable until you oust your uncouth shared-kitchen habits, the time you keyed the bitchy receptionist’s car, anything bathroom related, or worse still, that you plan your holidays around your ex-partner’s (to surreptitiously bump into them). Drive the conversation away from yourself at almost every opportunity or you may ‘total’ your career.
Keeping Evidence
Discreetly taking photos and recordings of your superiors in lewd and compromising situations is always a good idea for future lawsuits or pay negotiations. Alternatively, wear a GoPro on your head all night and be a party to everyone’s best manners around you for fear their wives, husbands, or shareholders might see the footage.
Latergram
Do not, under any circumstances, post anything on social media until at least the following day. Instagram stories, in particular, are to be avoided at all costs.
The Out
It’s not wise to leave the party without a concrete excuse or an imminent fake phone call emergency. Always have an out — arrange a tangible purpose for your departure at any time and a dummy evacuation contingency call. PRO TIP: your phone alarm can act as a phone call in lieu of reliable friends and family.
How to Apologise
Never apologise, unless politely gestured to by your manager. There is always a chance no one noticed, or everyone forgot. In the unlikely event your actions seriously disaffected others, the line goes ‘the alcohol had a bad reaction with medication you are taking for *insert terrible affliction’.
There is truly nowhere better to be on a summer’s day than the terrace at Soul Bar & Bistro. As the sun reflects off the Viaduct Harbour and the pat of boats lapping against the water echoes across the red brick promenade, Soul Bar & Bistro beckons like an oasis in the desert. This enduring restaurant has always been the place to celebrate life’s most special occasions: Christmas, birthdays, or simply a particularly sunny afternoon.
Many afternoons have been spent here across plates of crisp salt and pepper squid on a bed of zingy almond skordalia, silky truffle-infused macaroni and cheese studded with ham hock, and fresh oysters dressed with the lifting hint of mignonette; all classic dishes that have become menu mainstays.
market fish with sun-dried tomato, sauce vierge and almonds
But as with all things in life, change is inevitable, and we have become accustomed to the seasonal rotation of Soul Bar & Bistro’s menu. As the flowers bloom and the mercury rises, the menu, too, undergoes a metamorphosis, making the most of the summer bounty in Aotearoa, and filling up with dishes built to fuel and refresh on a balmy Auckland day.
clam linguine with colatura, parsley, lemon and black pepper
Unsurprisingly, seafood takes centre stage. The subtle sweetness of clams is left to shine with a simple sauce of lemon, black pepper and colatura — an Italian, anchovy-based fish sauce — alongside ribbons of linguine. Vibrant yellow saffron risotto takes an eastern turn, made with Japanese koshihikari rice, infused with chilli and lime and topped with scampi.
There’s market fish with a Mediterranean twist, grilled until crispy and topped with sundried tomatoes and enlivened by a zesty, olive-packed sauce vierge. And for the carnivorous, blushing Hawkes Bay lamb sits on silky labneh with subtly spiced kasundi and herb-packed falafels.
honeycomb ice cream sundae with macadamia, pizzelles, vanilla foam and malt chocolate
Be sure to save room for dessert, though. Ice cream, a summertime staple, gets the full Soul Bar & Bistro treatment in the new honeycomb ice cream sundae. Two glossy scoops of ice cream are topped with a featherlight vanilla foam and malt chocolate drizzle, while macadamia nuts and a golden pizzelle bring a gratifying crunch.
All that’s left is to pour a crisp glass of rosé — we’re fans of the light and delicate château roubine – and clear your calendar for the rest of the day. This is one of those lunches that will inevitably blur into dinner.
We’ve arrived at the final calendar month of the year, and with it comes a raft of delicious dining experiences set to help us slip into the festive season and out of the office in spectacular style. From exceptional new openings to anticipated Christmas feasts, new seasonal menus, lunchtime specials, and neighbourhood wine bars, here we present our definitive December dining guide.
The grandest festive affair this season is taking place this Sunday at The Wine Room. Chef Ryan Moore is cooking up a very special Christmas feast, starting off with a glass of champagne and canapes — of course — before moving onto a classic prawn cocktail and melon and jamon with white balsamic vinegar to whet the appetite. The main event sees ham and sirloin served with all the trimmings — cauliflower cheese, stuffing balls, honey-glazed carrots, the restaurant’s famed Yorkshire puddings and gravy and cranberry sauce. Pudding, meanwhile, comes by way of a yule log and strawberry and sherry trifle for a truly indulgent finish. More than just a Sunday lunch worthy of The Cotswolds, this will be a convivial feast not to be missed. Select a few key bottles from The Wine Room’s extensive, meticulously curated cellar and cancel your evening plans.
If you crave the thrill of culinary discovery in Auckland, Bar Magda is your hidden gem. Tucked away down a staircase on Cross Street, just off K Road, this cosy, softly lit eatery has earned its stripes for serving up some of the city’s most imaginative dishes. This season, chef Carlo Buenaventura and his team invite you to experience the warmth of a traditional Filipino celebration with Noche Buena on December 21st. The decadent four-course menu is a true taste of the season, featuring generous shared plates like chicken relleno filled with duck embotido and beef morcon, and vibrant desserts such as bibingka bisaya with summer peaches and biko ice cream, offering a deliciously Filipino twist on festive fare. Tickets are $78 per person for the entire feast, with a minimum of two per booking. We suggest you gather a group and make the most of Magda’s generous BYO offering.
When & Where: 19th December – 28th December, Horizon by SkyCity
Outsource your cooking this Christmas season and leave it in the capable hands of the talented team at The Grill. Whether it’s a friendsmas celebration, a Boxing Day dinner or your Christmas lunch on the day itself, this chef-prepared feast is a dual-purpose delight, impressing guests and leaving you more time to socialise. Choose between maple-glazed ham, whole roast turkey, or premium Angus beef scotch fillet, with all the classic sides and the option to elevate your spread with additional salads, sides and desserts. Designed for 6-8 people, this extra special menu comes ready to serve, all you need to do is set the table. Pre-orders are open now, for collection between 19th and 28th December.
When & Where:Available now, Takapuna Surf Club, Takapuna
Head straight for the sand and dive into Takapuna Surf Club’s vibrant new menu. Savour ocean-fresh prawn lettuce cups with tangy vermicelli noodles and crispy shallots, or gather friends around pillowy puffed bread and creamy burrata. This family-friendly spot lets you skip the evening chaos and enjoy a relaxed meal right by the waves.
When & Where: Available now, Bivacco, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland
Housed in a stylish waterfront venue, Bivacco has long reigned as one of our favourite destinations for slow lunches or after-work drinks. This season, it unveils a bold new summer menu that perfectly captures the spirit and excitement we’ve come to love. Among the new menu additions are the seasonal standouts — crudo, prepared three ways. First, the wild-caught king fish crudo: eight succulent slices, served over crème fraiche, doused with shallots, red chilli, oregano, dill, and lemon. The sashimi-grade tuna crudo is dressed in olive oil with shallots and chilli and served on top of fresh avocado, while the Sicilian is a medley of four fish: tuna, kingfish, salmon, and snapper, served simply with a drizzle of lemon chilli oil, capers, and chives. A vibrant heirloom tomato salad, silky duck liver parfait with brioche, delicately crumbed swordfish, and tender lamb shoulder complete a menu that welcomes the season of lingering lunches and al fresco feasts.
When & Where:December 8th – 25th, Blue on Franklin, Freeman’s Bay
Savour the magic of the season as you wander the legendary Franklin Road lights, ice cream in hand from Blue’s festive stand. The Freeman’s Bay favourite will be pouring hot coffee Supreme, rich hot chocolate, and spiced chai from early December through Christmas Eve. Tempt your taste buds with inventive flavour combinations like marmalade and hazelnut or honey and fried rosemary, plus classic soft serve for little ones. What better reason to stroll in awe?
When & Where:Tuesday – Saturday 5-7 pm, Metita, SkyCity, Auckland
Celebrate the arrival of summer at Metita, where chef Michael Meredith’s Pacific-inspired menu sets the scene for a tropical escape. From Tuesday to Saturday, Afi Afi Hours invites you to slip into island time as the early evening glows with sun-drenched flavours and lively drinks. Sip on Valima Samoan beer, toast with Mumm Marlborough Brut, or cool off with a zero-per cent Otai, made with mango, pineapple, and coconut. From 5 to 7 pm, enjoy refreshing drinks, snacks, and complimentary popcorn that brings the spirit of the islands to SkyCity’s thriving precinct.
Step up to the Rooftop at QT this December for the return of Friday After Dark and the irresistible ‘Martini Meal.’ Think grown-up happy meal: crispy fried chicken, golden fries, spicy habanero mayo, and your favourite martini, all in one. As the clock strikes 8 pm on Fridays, the energy shifts. Resident DJs spin while Belvedere tiny-tinis circulate alongside free fries. Magnums of Perrier-Jouët are ready to pop for $299. Explore QT’s plentiful ‘Mini Bar’ Menu all week long, brimming with bar snacks and tempting sample-size martinis.
Left: Queen’s Rooftop Bar & Wine Shop. Right Kingi
It’s the season for giving — and dining out has never felt more rewarding. Until December 31, 61 of the country’s favourite restaurants are joining forces for the 13th annual DineAid Christmas campaign, proving that a little generosity can go a long way. The initiative encourages diners to add a $3 donation to their bill, or $1–$3 to a featured dish or cocktail, with every cent going directly to City Missions across Aotearoa.
Thanks to the generous backing of Precinct Properties, one hundred per cent of donations raised will help fund food banks and community kitchens through City Missions in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, reaching more than 135 distribution points nationwide. It’s a deliciously simple way to do good while enjoying a long lunch or festive dinner out.
Founder Mark Gregory says, “We’re so grateful to the restaurants and diners who show up for DineAid each year — their kindness makes a tangible difference to families in need.”
So this festive season, eat, drink and give generously — because every bite counts.
The DineAid Christmas Campaign runs from November 1 to December 31, 2025. For a full list of participating venues, click here.
When & Where: 11 am – 4 pm, December 6th and December 7th, Ayrburn
Get ready for a dose of festive magic as the Ayrburn Christmas Markets return on December 6th and 7th. Step into a wonderland of local vendors, delicious treats, and family fun, all wrapped up in holiday spirit. Mark your calendar and watch for upcoming details on how to join the festivities.
A fast favourite among Grey Lynn locals and passersby, by day, Mother’s menu leans into European café culture with coffee, freshly-baked pastries, the sublime chicken sandwich, and fresh, seasonal salads that can either be enjoyed on the go or lingered over. By night, it will soon draw crowds offering something more intimate, “Simple food made exceptionally well,” as owner Hugo Baird puts it. Expect Mediterranean-inspired small plates — food that is familiar yet somehow surprising, paired with an ever-evolving wine and cocktail list that follows the same ethos. Grab a seat in the sun and watch the world go by. While a definitive date hasn’t been confirmed yet, we’re told evening service is only weeks away.
Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh menu edit to tempt us back to our favourite dining spots. From Wednesday, November 26th, Masu invites you to experience their reinvented lunch menu, brimming with inventive new dishes and crafted tableside, for a dash of culinary theatre. Savour the Japanese tuna tataki caesar salad, mixed before your eyes, or dive into the Japanese Sumo Bowl, where market fish or silken tofu nestle on furikake-seasoned sushi rice with saikyo miso, avocado, and crisp salad greens. What’s more, from December 1st, the SkyCity favourite will unveil two new matcha creations: the yuzu cloud matcha, served hot or iced, and the Masu Matcha Moment, a hot libation prepared tableside for a truly immersive treat.
Perfectly timed to usher in the festive season, Bivacco’s famous Sunday Feast returns as the Sunday Christmas Feast. Expect a parade of nostalgic, seasonal delights at the waterfront mainstay, including the holiday hero — the glistening free-range Christmas ham. Glazed with maple and orange and surrounded by sides and nostalgic appetisers like pigs in blankets, honey-glazed carrots, and colourful antipasti; expect an afternoon of pure indulgence. Bivacco’s Sunday Christmas Feast will be available until Sunday, December 21st. Secure your booking here.
‘Tis the season for tasty little morsels from Knead on Benson
‘Tis the season for tasty little morsels, courtesy of Remuera’s favourite local bakery. Available right up until Christmas, this year’s seasonal selection includes a nostalgic runlist of tried and true gems — think house-made fruit mince tarts, the biscuit selection, Christmas cake and the almost too-pretty-to-eat gingerbread tree.
When & Where: Early December, Birkenhead, Auckland
Venture over the Harbour Bridge, and the names Sarah and Jordan Macdonald have become synonymous with Birkenhead’s bourgeoning dining scene. The husband-and-wife duo behind some of the North Shore’s favourite bars and eateries, including Duo, Bon Pinard, and Osteria Uno, are now set to open a curated little wine shop, created for locals — by locals. Hinemoa Cellars (located directly next door to Osteria Uno) will offer a tight edit of sublime pours sourced from near and far. Set to open during the first week of December, watch this space (or keep an eye on their Instagram account) for more details.
As the festive frenzy sweeps with holiday happenings, let SkyCity’s eateries take the stress out of family dinners after you visit with Santa. The beloved restaurants have given their classic menus a playful twist, reimagined for little hands. At Cassia, kids dine free with every paying adult, while Masu’s Bento and juice box combo promises smiles from even the pickiest dinner dates. Head to Depot for fish sliders and crispy potato skins, or treat the family at Fed Deli with the Lil Fed menu, where cheese toasties, fries, and a banana split await.
When & Where:Available now until December 10th, Advieh, The Wine Room, and ROKI Collection Queenstown
With any glass of Dom Pérignon 2013 purchased before December 10th, guests dining at Advieh, The Wine Room, and ROKI Collection Queenstown will receive a complimentary chef-crafted snack to sit in harmony with the standout vintage — orchestrating a single moment of culinary perfection. To really elevate the dining experience, buy a bottle of Vintage 2013 and receive up to six chef-crafted bites to be savoured among friends.
When & Where: Available Saturday & Sunday from now and throughout summer, Non Solo Pizza, Parnell
Parnell institution Non Solo Pizza is inviting Aucklanders to embrace La Dolce Vita in true celebratory style. With summer’s arrival comes the return of NSP’s Weekend Long Lunches, bringing together generous dishes, fresh produce, and the convivial spirit of Italy, all enjoyed in a sun-soaked courtyard. These long, vibrant lunches begin at midday every Saturday and Sunday and are made to last as long as the stories and the laughter do. It is the perfect weekly ritual for relaxing, reconnecting, and indulging.
When & Where: December 24th and 25th, various eateries, Auckland
If you’re outsourcing the festive fare this Christmas, consult our definitive guide to the city’s best festive menus available. If you do decide to leave the magic to the professionals, or dare to do things a little differently this year, embrace a European-style celebration and reserve a spot at a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day lunch, to let the festivities linger a little longer. Whatever your itinerary, we strongly suggest you skip the stress and ditch the dishes — eat, drink, and be merry instead.
Few names command the same reverence in New Zealand fashion as Zambesi. Founded in 1979 by Elisabeth and Neville Findlay, the brand has long stood as a pillar of the country’s creative identity. Its dark, intellectual aesthetic and architectural tailoring are synonymous with a quiet confidence that transcends trend and time.
Elisabeth and Neville Findlay
Now, Zambesi enters an exciting new chapter with the opening of a new store on the ground floor of Auckland’s Commercial Bay. The carefully conceived space will reflect the label’s bold yet refined sensibility, presenting a full range of womenswear, menswear, accessories, and limited-edition pieces, all designed and made in-house in Auckland. Each Zambesi collection begins with an obsession for fabric and form, expressed through garments built to endure. The brand’s commitment to local craftsmanship and its ability to shape the cultural landscape of fashion over more than four decades have cemented its status as a true creative force. For Commercial Bay, the addition of Zambesi further strengthens its position as the city’s foremost destination for contemporary New Zealand design, alongside Wynn Hamlyn, Juliette Hogan, Sylvester, and Elle & Riley.
“We’re honoured to welcome Zambesi,” says Andrew Trounson, Head of Retail at Commercial Bay. “This is a brand that has helped define New Zealand fashion and continues to embody exceptional design and craftsmanship.”
With the doors now open, Zambesi’s enduring legacy continues through intelligent design, uncompromising style, and garments that tell a story.
Some fashion moments linger long after the final model leaves the runway, and Gucci’s Cruise 2026 show was one of them. Staged in the brand’s birthplace, the 15th-century Palazzo Settimanni, the collection unfolded as both a love letter to Florence and a statement of intent for what comes next.
Inside the historic palazzo (now home to Gucci’s archives), Gucci delivered a masterclass in contrast: sensual yet structured silhouettes, jacquards and silks laced with metallic threads, and a palette that swung between muted opulence and modern restraint. It was Florence reborn through Gucci’s lens; a city of craftsmanship and confidence, rendered with effortless sprezzatura.
Among the many highlights, two creations captured the essence of the evening: the Giglio and the Vanity bag. Named after the giglio, Florence’s symbolic lily, the former encapsulated the show’s central narrative by honouring heritage while blooming into something new. Its softly sculpted form, polished G clasp and petal-like edges brought a sense of organic fluidity to the collection’s tailored precision. Crafted in supple leather, the Giglio’s appeal lies in its quiet power — luxurious, tactile, and unmistakably Gucci.
Following Giglio’s blueprint, the Vanity bag emerges as a scaled-down accompaniment to its larger predecessor. Curated with convenience at the fore, the Vanity moves seamlessly from day to night, an enduring style statement from the luxury house. Echoing the timeless allure of the Jackie and the Bamboo before it, the Giglio bag feels destined for icon status. Its balance of form and function channels the ease of everyday luxury while retaining the kind of structural refinement that defines true investment pieces. With both bags available for immediate purchase after the show, the new additions serve as a testament to Gucci’s ability to merge storytelling with commercial instinct.
As the models emerged from the palazzo into the Florentine twilight, the mood was clear: this was more than a return home. It was a reaffirmation of Gucci’s creative core and a reminder that evolution is most powerful when it stems from authenticity.
The Cruise 2026 show wasn’t about reinvention for reinvention’s sake; it was about reconnection. A dialogue between past and present, between craft and culture, between Florence and the world. The Giglio, a blooming emblem of where Gucci has been, and the luminous direction it’s heading next.
Bivacco has long reigned as one of our favourite destinations for slow lunches or after-work drinks. The menu never fails to champion quality local ingredients with a contemporary Italian twist. The vibe is lively and unpretentious, making Bivacco an ideal spot for unforgettable summer gatherings with friends.
Sicilian Crudo
Though Bivacco remains a perennial favourite year-round, this season it unveils new summer dishes that perfectly capture the spirit and excitement we’ve come to love. Among the new menu additions are the seasonal standouts — crudo, prepared three ways. First, the wild-caught king fish crudo: eight succulent slices, served over crème fraiche, doused with shallots, red chilli, oregano, dill, and lemon. The sashimi-grade tuna crudo is dressed in olive oil with shallots and chilli and served on top of fresh avocado, while the Sicilian is a medley of four fish: tuna, kingfish, salmon, and snapper, served simply with a drizzle of lemon chilli oil, capers, and chives.
A vibrant heirloom tomato salad, silky duck liver parfait with brioche, delicately crumbed swordfish, and tender lamb shoulder complete a menu that welcomes the season of lingering lunches and al fresco feasts.
Long revered for its expertise in creating iconic High Jewellery timepieces, Van Cleef & Arpels is celebrating the ninetieth anniversary of one of its most admired pieces. The Cadenas watch remains one of the Maison’s most emblematic designs, fusing technical mastery with the quiet sophistication of classic Parisian style. First created in 1935, during the height of the Art Deco era, the Cadenas transformed timekeeping into an expression of elegance, embodying the Maison’s talent for blending innovation with refinement. Its name, meaning padlock in French, symbolised unity and protection, a motif that mirrored the artistic experimentation of the period. By re-imagining an everyday object as an object of beauty, Van Cleef & Arpels echoed the readymade philosophy introduced by Marcel Duchamp in the 1910s and later explored by the Surrealists of the 1930s. This union of ingenuity and artistry positioned the Cadenas at the very centre of the modernist spirit.
Worn on the wrist, its angled dial allowed the wearer to read the hour subtly, a graceful nod to the social codes of the 1930s, when women were expected to treat time as insignificant. The clasp of a double snake-chain bracelet slid fluidly around the wrist, following its curve with effortless flexibility, making the piece as comfortable as it was covetable. More than a functional object, the Cadenas became a symbol of independence and discretion, a jewel that suggested its wearer was in quiet control of her own time.
Throughout the decades, the design has evolved while preserving its distinctive character. Early models, crafted in yellow gold and platinum, later appeared adorned with sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and diamonds, each new interpretation reaffirming its place among the Maison’s icons.
The latest creation continues this lineage with luminous precision: a yellow-gold bracelet encircling a snow-set diamond case, its clasp traced with rows of princess-cut sapphires. It radiates the quiet strength of an enduring classic that bridges artistry and engineering.
Ninety years on, the Cadenas remains a paragon of understated Parisian style. Elegant, intelligent and eternally modern, it is a jewel that measures not just the passing of time, but the enduring beauty of it.
In a design landscape increasingly defined by quiet luxury and refined detail, Zucchetti’s new Pan S collection arrives as a masterclass in purity and restraint. An evolution of the iconic Pan series created in 2004 by Ludovica Serafini and Roberto Palomba, this reimagined range distils nearly two decades of design thinking into something profoundly simple, yet beautiful.
Where its predecessor celebrated sculptural lines, Pan S presents a cleaner, more organic silhouette. Cuts and welds are eliminated entirely, resulting in fluid forms where bodies, spouts, and levers appear to emerge from one continuous shape. The tapware appears to have been poured rather than assembled, conveying a sense of harmony that feels both architectural and subtle.
Available in single-control or the newly developed two-control configuration, Pan S extends its refined language across basins, showers, and bath fixtures. The effect is a cohesive suite that elevates everyday rituals into moments of design-led calm.
For those seeking a bathroom defined by balance, sophistication, and the kind of minimalism that reads as luxury rather than austerity, Zucchetti Pan S is a compelling reminder that simplicity, when executed masterfully, is the ultimate expression of style.
Masu by Nic Watt transforms Japanese robata grilling into a captivating performance. Now, this SkyCity favourite raises the bar again, debuting a daring lunch menu where chefs prepare each dish table side, infusing an ordinary lunch break into a culinary spectacle.
Wafu shi-za-sarada, Japanese tuna tataki Caesar salad
Among the seasonal standouts is the Japanese Tuna Tataki Caesar Salad, a fresh, flavoursome spin on the lunchtime classic, artfully prepared on the trolley while you wait. Think super-fresh, lightly seared yellowfin tuna tossed through crisp cos salad leaves, creamy house mayo, Masu’s signature rice crackers, and extra-fine nori.
left: Japanese Sumo Bowl, Yuzu Kumo Matcha (yuzu cloud matcha). Right: MASU Matcha Moment.
If you’re after something even lighter, the summery Buddha Bowl bursts with brightness and flavour, perfect for a midday pick-me-up. What’s more, from December 1st, Masu will debut two new inventive matcha creations: the refreshing yuzu cloud matcha, served hot or iced, and the Masu Matcha Moment, a warming libation prepared table side for a truly immersive experience.
Lunches will also now offer the Shomi menu, a curated selection of signature dishes from Masu’s a la carte dinner offerings. This is ideal for guests seeking the richness and creativity of the dinner menu, but in a lunchtime setting, priced at $99 per person.
From fresh, innovative lunches to lively dinners, Masu offers a dining adventure where time-honoured techniques blend seamlessly with modern cuisine. The sake selection ranks among the city’s best, and the stellar service makes every visit memorable. The next time lunch cravings strike, consider Masu the benchmark for fresh, thoughtful Japanese fare.
To celebrate its first birthday, The Wine Room is set to roll out the red carpet and shed its daytime sophistication in favour of something a little more daring. Partnering with some of the world’s most exclusive beverage houses, the alluring destination will reimagine itself as a late-night playground where music, indulgence, and performance collide.
The event is in partnership with Moet’s Grand Vintage 2015, so you know you’re in for a treat. The evening kicks off with a series of captivating live performances, while The Wine Room’s resident house DJ spins the night away, from golden hour to the small hours.
Ryan Moore
The oyster and Belvedere experience will be front and centre throughout the evening, with Champagne, caviar, and creative cocktails in steady supply. At the same time, Chef Ryan Moore will keep the crowd well-fed with a menu of refined canapés.
Tickets are $149 per person and include Champagne on arrival, chef-crafted canapés, an oyster and caviar experience, plus exclusive access to The Wine Room’s expansive setting. Doors open at 7.00 pm, and the party continues late into the night — then returns monthly on the final Friday of each month.
On a stunning Friday afternoon, the Denizen team headed to dine in Kingi’s laneway, a space that manages to feel both architecturally assured and deeply rooted in the soul of Aotearoa. Kingi (and The Hotel Britomart) has firmly established itself as Auckland’s most quietly confident restaurant; here, stone, timber, flax, and textural accents come together in a way that feels like a contemporary interpretation of the land itself. It is the perfect backdrop for a menu built on provenance, craft and integrity.
Executive chef Andrew Lautenbach and head chef Stefania Palermo have led Kingi into a new era with a seasonal menu divided into North and South Islands. It reads like an edible atlas, charting trusted fishers, small-scale farms, foragers and independent producers from top to bottom. “Our goal is to tell the story of Aotearoa through the food,” Andrew explains. “By dividing the menu by region, we can highlight the people behind each ingredient and open a conversation about where our food truly comes from.” This navigational division turned lunch into an explorative journey through the country’s most exceptional suppliers, people who genuinely care for their land and the sea.
Left: Masonic Mix. Right: WithWild Wapiti nigiri with horseradish and ponzu
We began with cocktails. The ‘Where Did the Man-Go’ quickly found its spiritual match with one team member, while the ‘Masonic Mix’ offered a polished Old Fashioned with a side of Eyes Wide Shut intrigue.
Te Matuku oysters with umeboshi, finger lime and chilli oil
Smoked eel with The Southerly whiskey honey, horopito cauliflower and sea herbs
Starters set the tone. Wild Wapiti from Fiordland, transformed into elegant nigiri with a swipe of horseradish, was tender and quietly astonishing. The crayfish taco with kiwifruit felt like a cheeky tribute to two national icons that, by all logic, should not belong together but absolutely do. Then came the smoked eel, sourced from local specialists who honour the traditions of Māori gathering and preparation. Claire’s recollection of South Island eel-harvesting folklore added a layer of authenticity you simply cannot manufacture.
Market whole fish with tomatoes, capers, olives and chilli
The selection of expertly crafted tastes of our country’s bounty offered a broad introduction, but the mains carried the emotional weight. A whole flounder, pan-fried with burnt butter, sage and capers, arrived as a nostalgic triumph, its delicate flesh falling apart with the gentlest encouragement. The kūmara gnocchi, soft and buoyant, paired with fresh zucchini and stracciatella, surprised everyone. It was universally adored, proof that vegetables, when treated with this level of respect, can command the table’s attention entirely.
Red kumura gnocchi with zucchini, stracciatella and gremolata
Kingi remains one of the city’s most sincere expressions of who we are. A restaurant that represents the best of who we are and what we represent, delivering a gastronomic journey that leaves you feeling proud of Aotearoa.
With summer finally here and the social calendar heating up, the quest for lit-from-within, party-ready skin has never felt more urgent. And if you’re not incorporating peptides into your skincare routine, we suggest you reconsider. These clever amino acid chains are the building blocks of youthful, resilient skin, and they are having a well-deserved moment right now. Elizabeth Arden, a brand steeped in skincare authority, has channelled its power into its latest innovations: the HA + Peptides Ceramide Capsules Serum and the HA + Peptides Ceramide Water Cream, both designed to visibly firm, smooth, and restore the skin’s natural bounce.
While Hyaluronic Acid has long been the hero of hydration, peptides are quickly becoming the secret weapon for summer luminosity, supporting collagen and improving firmness. Elizabeth Arden’s new HA + Peptides duo combines these forces in one simple, high-performance routine, ideal for anyone looking to elevate their regimen ahead of long lunches, seasonal soirées, and fun times in the sunshine.
The impressive results speak for themselves. After a single use, the skin appears instantly plumper, with a noticeable improvement in smoothness. In consumer studies, 98 per cent of participants reported more supple skin, while 95 per cent saw a boost in hydration that lasted throughout the day. The newly enhanced Hyaluronic Acid + Peptides Ceramide Capsules Hydra-Plumping Serum, paired with the all-new Hydra-Plumping Water Cream, delivers deep hydration with improved volumising and moisture-retention benefits. Expect a smoother texture, revived elasticity, and that coveted fresh-from-holiday glow — even before you sign off for the year.
Think of this as filler in a capsule. This powerhouse serum combines Size-Shifting Hyaluronic Acid with collagen-supporting Peptides to deliver visible plump and firming power. Micro-HA penetrates deep before expanding to smooth and volumise from within, while Peptides support natural collagen for enhanced contours and lasting bounce. Each biodegradable capsule ensures optimal potency, with skin looking instantly plumper and more defined.
Hyaluronic Acid + Peptides Ceramide Hydra-Plumping Water Cream
Best For: Hydration, firming, plumping
This lightweight cream also has a filler effect, drenching skin in up to 240 hours of hydration. Advanced 5D Hyaluronic Acid penetrates multiple layers for both instant and lasting plumpness, while phytoceramides, peptides, and exosomes reinforce the barrier and support collagen. Skin is left firmer, smoother, and radiantly refreshed.
Few icons resonate as instantly or as deeply as Van Cleef & Arpels’ Alhambra. Over time, the Alhambra collection has become a beacon of the Maison’s signature style and a timeless emblem of good fortune. From the very beginning, this distinctive motif has inspired graceful reinventions across materials and purposes. The new Alhambra Delicate Metamorphoses collection unveils a new chapter of transformable jewellery, a collection of glittering quatrefoils to covet. Still, it is the legendary timepiece that truly shines, once again setting the gold standard for luxury and unmistakable style.
Officially debuting on November 1st, the Sweet Alhambra Jewellery Watch elegantly connects the Maison’s storied past with its dazzling future. The iconic motif is reimagined with secret mechanisms and guilloché gold, now adorned with radiant stones.
First revealed in 1968, this timeless design quickly captured the free spirit of the liberated 1960s, resonating with a new wave of women who were choosing jewellery for themselves. Its motif drew inspiration from the graceful quatrefoil arches of Spain’s Alhambra Palace and the lucky four-leaf clovers that Jacques Arpels, the founder’s nephew, lovingly gathered in his garden.
Once the choice of royalty and gracing the wrist of Princess Grace of Monaco, the Alhambra still enchants the world with its brilliance and iconography. Every Alhambra creation is crafted following 15 meticulous steps, each guided by the skilled hands of Van Cleef & Arpels’ master artisans. Stones are handpicked for their blend of colour and refraction, then carefully sculpted, polished, and nestled into golden frames using the revered lost-wax method.
The Sweet Alhambra Watch glows with contemporary charm while carrying a legacy that spans more than 60 years. Its allure is found in the seamless blend of ageless elegance and modern vibrancy, echoing the spirit of the Maison with curvature and craftsmanship. Rendered in guilloché white gold and adorned with chalcedony and diamonds, this timepiece is poised to become a lasting icon.
For many, the festive season sparkles with cherished traditions and spirited family gatherings, yet all that merriment can come at its own cost. But what if, instead of juggling the kitchen chaos and the smorgasbord of personalties, you could sink into a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day feast where the table dazzles with holiday delights, glasses stay full, and you can savour the season — without a dirty dish in sight?
Thankfully, some of Auckland’s finest restaurants are ready to take the reins with their innovative festive menus. If you do decide to leave the magic to the professionals, or dare to do things a little differently this year, our definitive dining guide has you covered. Embrace a European-style celebration and reserve a spot at a Christmas Eve lunch to let the festivities linger a little longer. Whatever your itinerary, we strongly suggest you skip the stress and ditch the dishes — eat, drink, and be merry instead.
Step into the festive spirit at Onemata, where every detail is crafted to make your Christmas unforgettable. Gather your loved ones for a cosy Christmas Eve dinner or a leisurely Christmas Day lunch, and let three bespoke menus set the scene for celebration. Sip on Louis Roederer as you arrive, crack open festive treats at your pace, with seasonal creations from head Chef Rob Hope-Ede. Little gourmands will delight in the special surprises just for them. On Christmas Eve, enjoy a tailored three-course champagne pairing, and on Christmas Day, choose from three separate seating times to indulge in a vibrant five-course feast, brimming with holiday classics, plus a few surprises. Onemata’s festive feast is $175 per person, $87 per child.
Experience Christmas Day the New Zealand way, with a vibrant seafood celebration at Hotel Britomart’s Kingi. Gather your loved ones and enjoy a leisurely four-course summer lunch, basking in sunlight at Kingi’s breezy, open-air space. Begin with a welcome aperitif, then indulge in a full seasonal menu that captures the essence of Aotearoa’s bountiful cuisine. Savour the Kingi platter, brimming with sustainably caught seafood, delicate steamed clams, asparagus, and tender pork porchetta. Sit back, unwind, and indulge in a Christmas feast where every detail is taken care of. Available across two separate seatings for $199 per person.
While Soul will enjoy a well-earned rest on December 25th, reserve your spot for lunch or dinner on Christmas Eve to soak up the Viaduct Harbour gem’s renowned hospitality and mouthwatering new menu. Alongside some firm favourites and hero dishes with a devout following, lean into seasonal updates like the tuna crudo with watermelon gazpacho, rockmelon, and mint. Try the succulent crumbed pork and kumquat mostarda doused with chilli sambal — a fast favourite among Soul staffers, we’re told. Step into the signature Soul energy, the perfect way to glide into a laid-back Christmas Day.
Celebrate the season and step into the vibrant world of the Pacific at Chef Michael Meredith’s Metita, where every dish is a fresh adventure in flavour. This Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, enjoy a four-course, sharing-style menu, with bubbles included. Work your way through 10 Pacific-inspired dishes, each influenced by Meredith’s Samoan roots, reimagining classic Pacific flavours with innovation and creativity. Indulge in a Pacific Island festive feast and reserve Metita’s set menu, or gather your group for the ultimate tasting journey through Metita’s hero dishes. Available for $235 per person with champagne included.
What better way to kick off the Christmas Eve festivities than with a jaunt over to Waiheke Island to indulge in Ki Māha’s delectable fare (and a glass or two of bubbles or one of their quenching signature cocktails). Perch at one of the outdoor tables overlooking the sparkling water and spend the afternoon enjoying a selection of share plates. Mouthwatering mains set the table for family-style feasts: saffron tagliatelle with tomatoes, parsley, chilli oil, and prawns; market fish with burnt-leek butter; harissa-roasted chicken; marinated lamb loin; and dry-aged duck breast with earthy oyster mushrooms, dates, marmite, and cashew cream — a sweet-and-salty symphony.
Celebrate Christmas Eve in true Italian style at Parnell’s Non Solo Pizza, where a leisurely lunch transforms into a lingering, festive feast. Start your day early, claim your spot in the sun, and indulge in generous platters of family-style favourites in NSP’s convivial courtyard, all paired with a glass or two to toast the season.
Choose Advieh for your Christmas Day celebration and enjoy a festive, contemporary feast complete with classic trimmings. Kick-start the festivities with a crisp glass of Ruinart on arrival, followed by an indulgent menu celebrating the season, with dishes like the nostalgic Wagyu Beef Wellington, pancetta-stuffed turkey, and a fluffy Kiwi pavlova to finish. Advieh’s festive feast is $249 per adult, $125 per child.
Steal a final golden hour with friends at the freshly revamped Andiamo before the real celebrations take hold. From four to five pm on Christmas Eve, imbibe your way through the stellar bubbles and beer menu, each drink just $10. Tempted to linger a little longer? Herne Bay’s cherished spot will serve its signature Italian fare all day, so settle into a sun-drenched seat, explore the new menu, and let the afternoon drift on by — pure bliss.
For early risers who choose to start their Christmas Day with a morning stroll along the beach, rest assured that your go-to for barista coffee and quality cafe fare — Takapuna Beach Cafe — will be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, from 6:30 am until 12 pm. Enjoy the full menu on Christmas Eve, and on December 25th, takeaway options include coffee and freshly baked pastries (with no added surcharge).
Think outside of the bento box and linger over an elevated Japanese Festive Experience with Nic Watt’s contemporary five-course menu. Designed to be enjoyed by family members of all ages, Masu’s seasonal set menu makes for a delicious, unconventional Christmas Eve and Christmas Day feast. On Christmas Day, the five-course, family-style menu is sure to delight with its fresh ingredients, unique flavours, and artful plating. Available from $195 per person or $65 for a kid-friendly bento box.
Channel the Mediterranean vibe this Christmas with Esther’s rolling festive feast menu. Available for both lunch and dinner seatings, the set menu is $249 per adult and $99 per child (aged 12 and under). Share Esther’s famous puff bread around the table, and indulge in the baked saganaki, Cloudy Bay Diamond Clam Risotto, and Speckle Park Rib Eye off the bone. We have no notes.
For an entirely satisfying Christmas yum cha experience, Huami delivers on all fronts and is the perfect spot to take the family for an immersive festive feast. Offering a selection of elevated Chinese cuisine, indulge in fruit wood-roasted Peking duck, deep-fried soft shell crab, crispy tabasco prawns and more, washed down with a Huami gin, a whiskey from the restaurant’s impressive selection, or a glass of something bubbly. End the day on a high note with a delectable dessert — like the tart lemon confit and mascarpone cheesecake — and head off on your merry way, well-satiated. The Yum Cha Lunch and Nectar Set Menu is available from $98.
While the beloved Sunday Christmas Feast officially wraps on December 21st, the much-lauded waterfront address will be open and operating until closing time on December 24th. Guests can enjoy the full Bivacco menu — including a whole host of Italian shared plates and apertivos —right up until the big day.
For the most carnivorous among us, paradise is always found at Jervois Steakhouse, and this Christmas Eve, the beloved Herne Bay institution is open for business with plenty to inspire indulgence. Whether you’re looking for a casual pre-festive feast or a more convivial group get-together, JSH has it all. Just make sure to book early — we’re sure this beloved eatery will be packed to the rafters come Christmas Eve.
If you are lucky enough to be on Waiheke Island for the festive season, or simply need a reason to escape the mainland, Mudbrick’s beloved dining rooms await you on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. From midday, indulge in a creative take on classic Christmas fare. At The Mudbrick Restaurant, linger over the seven-course degustation as you gaze out over rolling vineyards and enjoy exceptional wines. For a more laidback celebration, The Archive Bistro offers a set menu of chef-selected bites, followed by your choice of entrée, main, and dessert.
Poliform’s Ernest sofa continues Jean-Marie Massaud’s prolific collaboration with the brand. Defined by its low-lying, modular form and deconstructed volumes, Ernest offers limitless configurations and a striking floating effect. Upholstered in richly textured fabrics, the design redefines comfort through soft contours and an expressive, contemporary presence.
With Ernest, Massaud reimagines comfort with bold creativity. This vision comes to life in a sofa defined by plush, deconstructed forms that echo the inviting softness of a down cushion. Each element marries effortlessly, allowing for intimate or expansive, straight or L-shaped arrangements, all while preserving the design’s striking character.
This summer, florals whisper rather than shout, embracing muted patterns and soft, sorbet hues. Forget prairie girl nostalgia; we’re drawn to the quiet confidence of pared-back floral prints. Florals for spring? Groundbreaking. Florals for summer? Effortlessly calm and refreshingly relaxed— it’s giving polished yet ultimately off-duty.
Prada floral quilted satin mini dress from Farfetch
There are few rituals more joyful than a long Italian lunch, and this season Parnell favourite Non Solo Pizza is inviting Aucklanders to embrace La Dolce Vita in true celebratory style. Its Weekend Long Lunch brings together generous dishes, fresh produce and the convivial spirit of Italy, all enjoyed in a sun-soaked courtyard that feels like an escape to the Med. These long, vibrant lunches begin at midday every Saturday and Sunday and are made to last as long as the stories and laughter do. It is the perfect weekly ritual to relax, reconnect and indulge.
Lunch begins with classics for the table. Warm house-made pane with Italian butter arrives alongside creamy burrata with spinach and green olive pesto, delicate shaved asparagus and peas, and silky beef carpaccio layered with truffle aioli, crispy capers, pecorino and rocket.
The main event continues the abundance. A whole roasted market fish is served with pea and spinach purée, smoked mussels and bright gremolata, while slow-roasted beef tenderloin arrives with rosemary, garlic and a decadent vincotto drizzle. A crisp Caesar salad with crispy prosciutto and a soft-boiled egg adds freshness, while golden duck-fat potatoes offer irresistible crunch.
To finish, a luscious meringue with vanilla mascarpone custard, berries, citrus and orange sauce delivers the dolci finale every Italian feast deserves.
Every Sunday, live music from 12.30pm to 2.30pm adds to the atmosphere, with a curated lineup of different artists each week creating the perfect soundtrack to a long, lingering afternoon.
A selection of spritzes is available for $16, including a classic Aperol Spritz, a bright Limone Spritz with limoncello and San Pellegrino, and a refreshing Fragola Spritz with strawberry and lemon. Guests can also enjoy a chilled glass of Ruffino Prosecco or an ice-cold Peroni on tap for $12, while wine lovers can savour Idle Hands red, white or rosé at $12 a glass or $60 a bottle. It all makes for an idyllic summer afternoon enjoyed with friends, family, pre-Christmas celebrations or even hens weekends.
The Weekend Long Lunch is priced at $55 per person, with the private To Kalon dining room available for groups of up to 10 at no additional cost.
Hosting at home becomes an experience to remember with Sambonet, the storied Italian brand that blends elegance with everyday practicality. The Sphera Bar Collection transforms any gathering with its striking, sculptural shapes and thoughtful details. Whether you’re hosting loved ones for a festive feast this Christmas or searching for an heirloom-worthy gift for your resident culinary enthusiast, Sambonet’s latest creations promise to impress.
At the centre of the collection, the Insulated Ice Bucket and Wine Cooler redefine classic barware. With seamless curves and mirror-finish stainless steel, both lend a sense of modern glamour. They catch the light in a way that feels both architectural and effortlessly chic, transforming tired tablescapes into elevated masterpieces. Yet beneath the elegance is pure functional form. Each piece is engineered to maintain optimal temperature, ensuring that every pour — from a chilled glass of sauvignon blanc to the perfect dirty martini — tastes just as balanced as it looks.
Whether on show for casual drinks with friends or styled on a curated bar cart, Sambonet’s new Sphera Collection cleverly blurs the line between functional object and sculptural centrepiece. They bring ceremony to the everyday rituals of mixing, chilling, and serving. For the host who truly appreciates design-led entertaining, the design-forward new range reaffirms that true sophistication lies in the details. With Sambonet, those details are nothing short of exceptional.
Captivated by nature’s timeless allure, Van Cleef & Arpels invites you once again into its inspired garden with the enchanting Flowerlace collection. The Maison reveals exquisite new jewellery and watches that capture the poetry of flowers in radiant designs, each piece a testament to Van Cleef & Arpels’ mastery of gemstones and artistry. Flowers, a wellspring of inspiration since the Maison’s founding, have flourished in countless forms, each crafted with techniques that celebrate its High Jewellery legacy.
Combining the radiance of yellow gold with the sparkle of diamonds, each piece’s petals shine with intensity, as if bathed in natural sunlight. The lines that form an elegantly rounded flower evoke the fluidity of ribbon, heralding another enduring Van Cleef & Arpels theme, couture.
Five creations come to life in this sought-after new collection: a ring, a Between the Finger ring, a pair of earrings, a pendant, and a versatile clip pendant that adapts to your style. To breathe life into each piece, the Maison’s artisans blend their expertise, beginning with the ancient art of lost-wax casting. Sculpted in wax, each motif is reborn in molten gold, carefully shaped, adorned with precious stones, and finally, polished to a luminous finish.
These latest masterpieces pay homage to the iconic Silhouette clips of the late 1930s, when Van Cleef & Arpels reinterpreted flowers with the sleek sophistication of Art Deco. Fine gold threads outline each blossom, their forms animated by the dance of sparkling stones and shifting light. The ribbon motif, a signature woven through the Maison’s history, honours the timeless connection between fashion, art, and jewellery.
The newly minted Flowerlace pieces herald the eponymous High Jewellery collection, which also combines nature with couture. Created in 2007, it presents a dialogue between white gold and diamonds with timeless, enduring appeal.
Flowerlace is both a tribute to nature’s boundless muse and a salute to the Maison’s rich legacy, honouring Van Cleef & Arpels’ illustrious past while inspiring its future.
At OYF Remuera, Pilates meets far infrared (FIR) heat to create a uniquely restorative fitness experience. Founded by Nera Fernando, the studio blends movement with holistic wellness in an environment designed to nourish both body and mind.
“I wanted to build a space that made people feel elevated the moment they walked in,” says Fernando. “OYF is more than a fitness studio — it’s a sanctuary.” With soft lighting, welcoming staff, and a strong sense of community, the vibe is intentionally grounding. But the heat is where the magic happens.
Nera Fernando
“Our classes are held in far infrared (FIR) heated rooms,” explains Fernando. “Unlike traditional heat, FIR penetrates deeper, helping with detoxification, circulation, pain relief and inflammation. It also calms the nervous system — so you leave feeling energised, not depleted.”
Fernando was inspired to bring OYF to Auckland after experiencing its transformative effects while in Canada. “It combined everything I was looking for — intelligent movement, genuine community, and a focus on wellbeing.”
Alongside Pilates, OYF offers heated yoga, strength classes, and a full calendar of wellness workshops. “Our events are designed to deepen understanding and create connection. Whether it’s postnatal recovery or hydration education, it all feeds into a more holistic practice.”
Fernando believes movement is a powerful re-entry point for anyone feeling burnt out or disconnected, “People think self-care is indulgent. It’s not. It’s essential. When you prioritise yourself, you show up better for everyone else.”
Her current go-to? “Tone & Sculpt. It uses resistance bands and weighted bars in a heated space. It’s dynamic, effective, and leaves you glowing.”
With new reformer classes launching soon in Ōrākei and plans to expand across Auckland, OYF is just getting started. “Our mission is to build a wellness network that’s inclusive, empowering, and deeply connected to the community.”
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