Unlike most other accessories, your choice of sunglasses is a pivotal part of curating your look this summer. As the mercury rises and blue skies prevail, we keep our shades firmly attached to our faces; an extension of ourselves. It’s key, then, that you choose wisely.
This season, sunglasses are more statement-making than ever. Gone are the perfunctory specs that serve to banish UV rays only. In their place, you’ll find everything from pared-back wire frames, to Hepburn-esque oversized shades. Hawking back to a bygone era and anchored firmly in vintage shapes, this season’s hottest sunnies toe the line between form and function.
Run around town with everything but the kitchen sink in your bag at any other time of year, and you might paint a picture of chaos. In summer, though, you can show up anywhere with a bag full of sand-strewn towels, SPF and at least three different sunglasses and no one will bat an eye. In the warmer months, a bag full of a jumbled mix of belongings is a sign you’ve been living life properly.
So what, then, do you pick to carry all these hallowed items? A beach bag needs to be capacious, but not ludicrously so, to paraphrase Succession’s Tom Wambsgans. It should be hardwearing but chic. Stand up to sand and the odd waylaid drop of sunblock, but hold its own for impromptu drinks on the Viaduct.
From Chloe’s raffia Banana tote — the pick of all bohemian die hards — to Gucci’s versatile Totissima in indigo denim, we’ve rounded up our pick of the best beach bags to see you through until Spring.
Chloé Summer Banana crocheted raffia tote from MyTheresa
A must-see for exhibition for all admirers of art featuring styles that have shaped American art since 1945. From Abstract Expressionism, Minimalism and Photorealism along with Pattern and Decoration artists. Pop to Present features a phenomenal back catalogue of American Art, on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Opening with an iconic 1948 drip painting by Jackson Pollock, this unparalleled exhibition will feature 52 compelling works that have shaped American art and culture. Guests can expect an up-close and personal view of works by Andy Warhol, Benny Andrews, Rosalyn Drexler, Elaine de Kooning, Willem de Kooning, Helen Frankenthaler, Roy Lichtenstein, Mark Rothko, Kiki Smith, Clyfford Still, and Cy Twombly, among others. Officially open to view from Saturday, November 8th, Pop to Present will be exhibiting at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tāmaki until March 2026.
Car enthusiasts share a rare devotion, one defined by camaraderie, nostalgia, and reverence for the art of engineering. Returning for its second year, the Ayrburn Classic is more than an event; it is a vibrant convergence of heritage and hospitality that cements Ayrburn as a must-visit destination for motoring enthusiasts.
On Saturday, February 20th, more than 250 exceptional vehicles will pull into the precinct, expanding on last year’s resounding success. As summer reaches its zenith, the lawns will gleam with mid-century American icons, post-war British masterpieces, rare vintage treasures, and contemporary supercars, each showcased across nine remarkable feature classes.
Following its celebrated debut, the 2026 programme elevates expectations with an engaging schedule tailored for both seasoned collectors and curious newcomers. Friday evening welcomes exhibitors and car owners, while Saturday ushers in open gates. Car entries are now divided into two headline categories: the Ayrburn Classic Class, where experts judge rare and meticulously restored cars, and the Show Field Class, an open and spirited display for all. Together, they set the stage for a weekend of competition, connection, and spectacle. Throughout the event, the spirit of community motoring takes centre stage. Guests can savour exceptional food and drink across the Ayrburn Precinct, including the delectable new modern Chinese eatery, Billy’s. More than a showcase, the Ayrburn Classic is a gathering of passion, an unforgettable weekend celebrating heritage, craftsmanship, and the shared joy of the drive.
Left: Billy’s restaurant at Ayrburn
A celebration of motoring heritage and innovation, the Ayrburn Classic delivers a sophisticated festival atmosphere set against the spectacular backdrop of one of New Zealand’s finest hospitality destinations. Reflecting its growing international prestige, the event has been shortlisted for Breakthrough Event of the Year at the International Historic Motoring Awards 2025, with winners to be announced in London in November — a testament to Ayrburn’s world-class vision and its enduring commitment to excellence.
Overflowing with advantages, there’s no better time to dive in, make a splash and boost your breaststroke to the next level. Having long been touted as the best exercise ever, we won’t bore you by listing the bountiful benefits of swimming. Suffice to say, the low impact total body workout capable of simultaneously building strength and cardio abilities without putting stress on your bones, joints and muscles is hard to beat. Yet despite its prowess in aiding one in everything from improving balance, sleep and bone health to maintaining healthy lungs — studies suggest that strong lungs process oxygen more proficiently which can also help ward off illness and cardiovascular diseases — few of us have gotten around to letting the aquatic exercise float to the top of our priority list. Perhaps it’s the need to carve out a chunk of time in our day, find a pool and get our hair wet that puts us off? And while that may seem like a small price to pay in exchange for the plentiful perks, to get into the swim of things and stay a while, we’ve seen fit to uncover some practical ways to circumvent the annoying obstacles before cluing you up on a sure-fire challenge to unleash your inner water baby — just in time for the seemingly unwavering resolve that comes with the new year (and potentially new you). Ready to take the plunge?
Get the Gear
Sometimes having the right equipment is enough to take the hassle out so you can focus on mastering technique. This, in turn, will bring consistent results and ultimately keep you coming back for more. To swim like the best of them, you might like to invest in:
Goggles: For a leak-free outcome, adjust the plastic piece wider or narrower over the bridge of the nose so that it feels snug but not tight. Next, ensure that the goggle frames sit on the bones that surround the eyes, not inside the eye socket as this decreases blood circulation and can cause the dreaded ‘raccoon eyes’ effect. Outdoor swimmers should consider polarised goggle lenses that offer good panoramic vision too. Try Jaked NRJ swimming goggles.
Swim caps: You should know that the purpose of a swim cap is to reduce drag, not keep hair dry. But if the latter is what you’re after, try wearing two to keep water from seeping in. Silicone caps are a favourite for competitive swimmers as a durable option that slips on and off without pulling hair. Neoprene renditions are more suited for open-water swimmers and triathletes than for those racing in heated pools.
Waterproof headphones: Because God only knows just how boredom-stricken you’ll be by lap 44. Having your tunes or favourite podcast with you can help. And while it’s a whole lot easier to find headphones to suit sweaty workouts than it is for swimming, the options are out there. You’ll need something that’s truly waterproof, that doesn’t fall out of place when you’re powering away freestyle and that doesn’t sound terrible when submerged underwater. Try the Shokz OpenSwim Pro Waterproof Headphones.
Hand paddles: These add resistance and build swim-specific strength, but only when used correctly — if you feel a pull on your shoulders, stop straight away; the delicate shoulder muscles are easily damaged by incorrect use. You can also lower the risk of problems by using a smaller paddle. When you get it right, you’ll feel the burn in your arms and lats. Start by adding a few 50m sprints at the end of your main set and build up to longer intervals as your strength improves. Try Aqualine Contoured Hand Swim Paddles.
Opt in for Expert Advice
While you may not need swimming lessons per se, a session or two with a swim coach in a relaxed environment away from crowds can bring out the best in you. At Future Dreams Swimming for example, the structured, feedback-heavy private sessions can include video analysis to help you see exactly what you need to improve on.
Take it to the Sea
As with anything, setting your sights on beating a personal best or trying something you’ve always wanted to will give you a measurable buoy to swim towards. And with the spate of open sea swim events taking place this summer, perhaps it’s time you substituted time in the pool for a jaunt in the ocean? Said to be ideal for marathon swimmers who have grown bored with controlled environments as well as swimmers with a sense of adventure, one of the major differences between the two is the outcome. Pool swimmers have a goal time in mind and can be fairly certain that they will complete their races, but due to conditions that can change in a heartbeat, open water swimmers have to deal with the possibility that they may not finish their swim, and in some cases, in dangerous weather warnings for instance, may not even be able to start. There is no guarantee that they will be able to complete a channel or long distance swim, and unlike pool swimmers who can compete in the next swim meet and improve their times, open water swimmers may only have one opportunity to achieve their goals. While the uncertainty is enough to have many swimming for the shore, it’s fair to say that the mental and physical training and flexibility needed to face these challenges with minimal flinching will no doubt show you what you’re truly made of. And if that isn’t a New Year’s resolution that will set you up strong for a year that will go swimmingly, we don’t know what will.
“An ice cream a day” might be our summer mantra, but this frequency can make it necessary to branch out from the typical flavours. From gourmet gelato to classic cones, these are the best scoops in town.
One of our favourite scoops has to be Duck Island’s Salted Caramel & Cacao Crumb flavour, perfectly sweet with a moreish hint of salt, finished with clusters of cacao nib crumbs layered throughout to offer a bit of chew and texture. That said, this ice cream purveyor is known for its innovation, and is always adding exciting new ice-cream treats to its cabinet. From refreshing berry sorbet scoops, to decadent chocolate and caramel variations to a new Christmas Mince Pie iteration that we’ve certainly got our eyes on, Duck Island’s ice creams offer an array of unique flavours. Although, if it’s something different you’re after, Duck Island also offers ice cream sandwiches (the Cookies & Cream is a particular favourite of ours) and ice cream sundaes, complete will all the tasty trimmings.
The Mango Lassi flavour from Miann is a fragrant treat that sees refreshing mango blended with a good hint of cardamon, resulting in what tastes like summer in a cone. Or, if you’re after something slightly more indulgent, the now-famous Mont Blanc gelato, with layers of citrusy lemon curd and matcha sponge topped with matcha gelato and matcha Mont Blanc is an utter showstopper.
Taking nuttiness to a whole new level is Little Lato’s indulgent (and award-winning) Peanut Butter Chocolate flavour. It’s even dairy-free, so plant-based eaters can also enjoy a scoop or two. That said, Little Lato’s Biscoff Cookie Dough is a must-try this summer. This delectable flavour sees Biscoff Cookie Dough gelato loaded with The Vegan Treatory’s Biscoff cookie dough in a match made in heaven. Otherwise, flavours like Banana & Peanut, Crumpet & Golden Syrup, and Espresso Martini await you at this always-creative ice cream outlet.
There is a reason that Island Gelato has expanded well beyond its Waiheke Island beginnings — the flavours here are exceptional. In fact, Island Gelato is one of the most awarded ice cream purveyors in the country, with plenty of creativity and quality at play. Here, find a raft of award-winning flavours like Pineapple Mojito, Strawberry Cashew Cheesecake, Pic’s Peanut Butter Caramel, Spiced Raspberry Vanilla, and so much more.
An absolute institution in Warkworth, Charlies Gelato is the perfect place to pick up a scoop or two before enjoying a stroll around Matakana. The Black Doris Plum Sorbetto is heavenly, but even better when paired with the new Christmas Cherry. You’re welcome.
Operating under the philosophy that ‘normal ice cream is boring’, Giapo is the place to go for something a little less ‘vanilla’. Here, from the cones to the flavours to the toppings, there is no limit to the ice cream makers’ creativity, making it hardly surprising that Giapo is frequently dubbed the best ice cream in Auckland. And while there are a number of showstopping scoops to choose from, the World Famous Hokey Pokey is always a winner.
One for the seasoned sugar fans who want to enjoy their scoops guilt-free, Ben & Jerry’s Chocolatey Love A-Fair flavour was inspired by Tony’s Chocolonely and saw the renowned ice cream purveyors join the chocolatiers’ mission to end modern slavery in cocoa farming. Featuring chocolate ice cream with salted caramel swirls, caramel chunks & sea salt chocolatey chunks made with traceable open-sourced cocoa from Tony’s Open Chain, indulging in creamy goodness has never felt so good.
Left: Penguino. Right: Phil Greig Strawberry Gardens.
Take a trip down memory lane at Browns Bay’s iconic gelato parlour, Penguino — renowned for its deliciously creamy, handmade scoops and tasty flavours that change daily. If you can get your hands on a scoop of the Cotton Candy or the Coconut Choc Chip, you’re in luck.
Heading to Muriwai for a beach day? Stop off in Kumeu at Phil Greig Strawberry Gardens for real fruit ice creams and smoothies. Generously sized even if you order the smallest version, our favourite is always a frozen yoghurt, mixed berry combo.
Of course, summer in the City wouldn’t be the same without a walk along Mission Bay, finished off with a scoop from Movenpick. Our favourite would have to be the classic tiramisu in one of Movenpick’s renowned waffle cones. That said, there are Movenpick locations all around Auckland if you can’t make it out East.
Mad for matcha? Tsujiri has three locations in Auckland and undoubtedly serves the best matcha soft-serves in town. A niche but always very delicious option, very deserving of its place as one of the best ice cream spots in Auckland.
During the long and hot days of summer, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the North Shore, especially when it includes a stroll along Takapuna Beach. This is only made better with a scoop (or two) of gelato from Takapuna Beach Cafe in hand — where you can find flavours like Salted Caramel, Blood Orange, Chocolate Hazelnut and Honeycomb.
An iconic ice cream parlour that offers some of the most beloved, nostalgic Tip Top scoops around, Ollies Burgers & Ice Cream in Royal Oak has been running for 50 years and is still a firm favourite among those looking for a satiating scoop. Proving that you can’t beat the classics, this recognisable corner spot is a summertime must-visit.
Nestled in Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter, Gelatiamo has been crafting award-winning gelatos and sorbets since 2011. Renowned for its pure, authentic flavours, this artisan spot combines premium Italian ingredients with fresh New Zealand produce. Beyond gelato, their onsite pâtissier creates irresistible desserts, from classic tiramisu to French-inspired pâtisserie.
This summer, Giapo brings is bringing its iconic ice cream creations to Wynyard Quarter with the newly-launched Giapo x The Pantry Ice Cream Hut at Park Hyatt Auckland. With five signature flavours to choose from, including Matcha in Coconut and Berry Martini, served right on the water, this limited-time pop-up (open Wednesday — Saturdays all summer) is sure to satisfy all season.
Tucked away in Mount Eden, Pistackio Gelato & Co. delights with award-winning, handcrafted artisanal gelato made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Perfect for locals and visitors alike, each scoop is better than the last, with flavours like Banana & Dolce de Leche, Coconut & Butterscotch, and classic Pistachio on offer.
There’s nothing that quite ruins a day of fun in the sun like a swarm of mozzies and a body covered top-to-toe in bites. Ditch the dodgy DEET, and opt for these tried and true natural alternatives.
Apple Cider Vinegar
An effective mosquito-repelling drink, dilute 1-2 tablespoons of ACV in water or mix up a batch of switchel. Alternatively, dilute with water in a spray bottle and spritz skin regularly.
Lavender
The bloodsuckers aren’t fans of the calming fragrance of lavender. To keep them outside, add lavender oil to a ribbon and place around open doors and windows, or apply lavender body oil to keep them from bugging you.
Garlic
Not for the faint of heart, by increasing your garlic consumption, the garlic oil that’s eventually released from your pores provides a natural barrier between your skin and the pesky pest.
Light Colours
Attracted to objects found in nature such as foliage-like dark blues, greens and blacks or flower-like brights, donning light or neutral coloured clothing in white, khaki or beige, will divert their attention.
Neem Oil
The vegetable oil is a known natural insecticide. To use, place a few drops in an oil burner to release it into the ether or apply sparingly as part of a coconut oil mix on skin.
Coffee Grounds
Keep mozzie numbers to a minimum by sprinkling coffee grounds over ground wherever there’s stagnant water. The layer deprives mosquito eggs of oxygen killing them before they hatch.
Forget soggy sandwiches this summer; take your cues from our delectable selection of food-on-the-go for the ultimate outdoor culinary adventure.
Condiments
Add European flair to your picnic basket. Pesto or salsa adds pizzazz, as does a smattering of pâté. Slather some arrabbiata pesto or salsa verde onto a crostini and top with creamy goat’s cheese, or embrace the exotic flavour of a Moroccan chutney — the perfect accompaniment to a delicious slice of cured meat.
Cheese
Ditch the plastic stuff; this is no place for cheese slices. Instead, opt for a selection of hard and soft cheeses that will accommodate everyone’s palate. A mild cheese such as emmental blends perfectly with semi-dried cherry tomatoes, or try the classic flavour of piccalilli. For those who adore pungent cheeses, opt for a strong gorgonzola perched boldy atop a fresh baguette.
Meat & fish
An interesting selection of cured meats and fish will keep even the most seasoned picnic-goer happy. Try layering anchovy fillets with fresh tomato slices on a generous hunk of bread for a classic bruschetta. Or go for bold flavours by pairing sliced salame finocchiona with pepperoni and cheese.
Bread/crostini/crackers
The best picnics involve as little cutlery as possible. We suggest you turn composite carbohydrates into edible vessels on which to serve your gastronomic selection. A fresh loaf of rustic artisan bread works well with the deliciously simple pairing of olive oil and thinly sliced Iberico Bellota ham, or use crostini as a base for delectable canapés. If you’re after a little something different, try sweet olive oil tortas with softer cheeses for a mouthwatering combination of sweet and savoury.
Sweet treats and fruit
There’s always someone who needs a little sweetening up, and a delicuious Danish pastry from any good bakery is bound to do the job. Always remember to throw in some fresh seasonal fruit too: fresh melon complements the saltiness of cured meat perfectly.
Drinks
Whilst champagne is always appropriate, you should also consider the versatile Prosecco. Turn this dry sparking wine into a popular and refreshing Spritz,by adding a dash of Aperol, or bring a bottle of peach nectar and whip up a delicious summery bellini.
Utensils
Although you are in nature, there is no need to act like a Neanderthal. Having the right utensils is essential for a perfect picnic: cheese knives, serving bowls and tongs, and a sturdy cutting board will be your saving grace when dining outdoors.
It’s not a real celebration without the clinking of champagne flutes, and how you pop the cork can be just as important as the label on the bottle. Below, we present four ways to pop a bottle — select your method wisely.
The Classic
for the discerning
Grip the cork between your thumb and index finger and using your other hand, twist the bottle until you feel a discreet ‘pop’. There will be no spillage if executed perfectly; merely a small puff of champagne scented mist.
The Celebration
for the victorious
Grasp the bottle tightly with one hand while gripping the bottleneck with the other. Hold the bottle at a 45° angle away from any human targets. Dig thumb under the cork and pop the cork off. Hold hands and bottle victoriously above your head as if you’ve just won the Formula 1.
The Old School
for the show off
Acquire a sword (crucial). Hold the bottle with one hand at a 45° angle, away from your face. Ensure your fingers are tucked in and away from the blade. Press the blade against the side of the bottleneck, then glide upwards in one smooth, swift sweep. Put the sword away before imbibing.
The Launch
for people with boats
A floating vessel and a good length of ribbon is required. Tie one end of the ribbon around the prow of said vessel and attach the other end around the bottle. Swing the bottle forcibly against the vessel’s body. Plant a suave kiss on a nearby damsel as cheers erupt.
Few vistas come close to the outlook under the pitched roof of Ki Māha, occupying a prime position on Waiheke Island’s Onetangi Beach. Under the expert guidance of head chef Vicky Shah, this is beachside dining at its most revered — a celebration of provenance, craft, and the island’s abundant seasonal offerings.
Ki Māha beckons us all year, but spring and summer bring a special kind of enchantment to dining on Waiheke. To celebrate the season’s arrival, the restaurant has expanded its acclaimed menu with succulent seafood, tender meats, and colourful vegetarian dishes bursting with flavour. Every visit promises a feast of choices from the first bite to the last.
Left: Smoked Old-Fashioned. Right: Wagyu skewer with spiced emulsion and soft herb salad
Aperitifs and creative cocktails set the mood, with standouts like the ‘O-ne-tangi’—a heady mix of pineapple, dark rum, amaro di angostura, and yuzu. The wine list guides guests through celebrated regions, highlighting local varietals with fresh, seasonal fare.
Tuna crudo with radish, sea grapes, chilli-verjus dressing
Ki Māha seafood platter
Seafood lovers can indulge at Ki Māha’s renowned raw bar, then savour creations like tuna crudo with radish, sea grapes, and chilli-verjus dressing. Shareable snacks abound, from scallop ceviche in coconut dressing that sings with Southeast Asian flavours to goat’s cheese fritters drizzled with hot honey, lemon, and thyme. Pair these delights with a glass of Cloudy Bay Perolus Sparkling and let the afternoon drift by with the ebb and flow of Onetangi’s shoreline.
Entrees range from a reimagined caprese — heirloom tomatoes with buffalo curd and basil — to bold game, such as wild venison with watercress raita and macadamia. 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.
Front: Dry-aged duck breast with oyster mushroom, dates, marmite and cashew cream. Back: Seasonal greens
From the grill, the Tora Bay crayfish—sustainably sourced just for Ki Māha—stands out, as does the succulent Skull Island king prawn, ready to enhance any dish. The Wagyu eye fillet, aged to perfection, headlines a selection of beef cuts sure to delight any meat lover.
As you settle into island time, let the dessert menu tempt you with the affogato, rich chocolate ganache, or perfectly executed vanilla bean crème brûlée. Or, forgo the sweets entirely and end on a savoury note with a curated cheese board of melty Brie de Meaux, tête de moine AOP, Roquefort, honeycomb, walnuts, and crisp crostini.
Left: Violette Dream Signature Cocktail. Right: Dark chocolate ganache with hazelnut and raspberry
Before you return to the mainland and leave Ki Māha in the rearview — if only for a little while — be sure to pause and savour the feeling, that elusive blend of contentment, satisfaction, and coastal calm. This uniquely Waiheke dining destination consistently delivers all three.
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