We love a good film adaptation — even a bad one. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching a beloved book receive the Hollywood treatment, even if some are better left alone.
One reimagining that we do have full faith in, is the upcoming adaptation of Freida McFadden’s best-selling novel of the same name, The Housemaid. With Paul Feig (A Simple Favour) and screenwriter Rebecca Sonnenshine at the helm, the film stars Sydney Sweeney (Euphoria) and Amanda Seyfried (Mean Girls) in the title roles — and it’s safe to say that we’re already enticed.
Amanda Seyfried
In McFadden’s twisted psychological thriller, Millie Calloway (Sweeney) is a live-in maid with a complicated hidden past, working for a wealthy family that’s harbouring dark and sinister secrets of their own. As their erratic behaviour escalates, the maid realises that she’s trapped in a deadly game, but Nina (Seyfried) and Andrew Winchester (Brandon Sklenar, It Ends With Us) have no idea who they’re dealing with. Italian actor, singer and the face of Dolce & Gabbana, Michele Morrone, plays the family’s gardener, the only other potential witness privy to what might be going on inside the home.
The trailer — released by Lionsgate back in September — is set to a bone chilling rendition of Sabrina Carpenter’s Please, Please, Please and opens to an idyllic gated home, blanketed in snow. Throughout the film, the Winchester’s picture perfect home life unravels. Naturally, chaos ensues.
Sweeney and Seyfried star as maid and matriarch respectively in the upcoming film, scheduled to premiere in theatres across the US on Friday, December 19 2025.
In a bid to continue keeping Auckland’s CBD well-fed, cult favourite bagelry Goodness Gracious just opened a brand new outpost in Wynyard Quarter— marking it’s fourth location to date.
Situated in the popular dining district and flanked by local businesses, we suspect the newly minted cafe will become a hot favourite during the weekday lunchtime rush hour. Fans of the original Eden Terrace, Parnell and later Takapuna locations will already be well-versed in the GG menu — think the CAB, a creamy medley of chicken, avocado and bacon bits or the BLAT, layers of crispy bacon, fresh baby spinach, avocado, tomato, aioli and tomato relish, a vetted hangover cure all. As for the meat-free options? The Vege Salad — a satisfying combo of sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, seasonal greens, avocado, feta and quince — never fails.
The new space features a custom ordering system (counter, QR, and kiosk), allowing diners to conveniently grab-and-go or dine in and lounge awhile. In keeping with the three existing locations, the new Wynyard Quarter cafe carries Goodness Gracious’ signature style, featuring an industrial concrete fit-out, black steel framing, butcher tiles, soft timber and just the right amount of warmth.
When a simple salad for lunch just won’t suffice, we suggest making a beeline to Goodness Gracious’ new spot for the holy grail of stacked bagel sandwiches — you can thank us later.
The Bentley Mulliner Aoraki captures the soul of New Zealand in a singular, spectacular drive.
Few car brands in the world are as synonymous with luxury as Bentley. The British marque is defined by a carefully finessed balance of fine craftsmanship (with skills passed down through generations), engineering prowess, and a knack for tech integration. Still, it’s a penchant for future thinking that sets it apart. And nowhere is this more evident than in the recent unveiling of the first-ever Bentley Bentayga inspired by the captivating landscapes and unique heart and soul of New Zealand — the Bentley Mulliner Aoraki.
In 2023, our editor-in-chief embarked on a truly extraordinary journey with the storied marque, traversing one of the world’s most exceptional driving routes in what she described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Deep in the South Island, immersed in a world of design, wellbeing, and adventure (behind the wheel of Bentley’s fleet of models), the adventure not only offered the chance to experience and connect with the cars, but also an immersion into nature, witnessing some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. And it’s here, amongst the snow-capped mountains, sprawling tussock-covered plateaus, and breathtaking fiords, that the seed was planted for The Bentley Mulliner Aoraki, Bentley’s one-of-a-kind new model.
Named for New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki Mount Cook, and drawing inspiration from our country’s captivating landscape, this unique vehicle was commissioned by Bentley Auckland and crafted by Mulliner, Bentley’s Bespoke Studio based in Crewe, England. The genesis of the New Zealand-inspired car was to craft something as spectacular and majestic as everything witnessed on the Extraordinary Journey.
“The Bentley Mulliner Aoraki was Named for Aoraki Mount Cook and draws inspiration from our country’s captivating landscape.”
Mulliner set to work, crafting a material and colour combination that captured several elements of Aotearoa’s unique environment, and the result is a vehicle of rare distinction. The Mulliner Aoraki’s Anthracite over Cyprus duo-tone exterior nods to the craggy hues of alpine rock, while tussock-covered plateaus are represented in Khamun contrast hand-painted pinstriping to the carbon fibre styling.
Inside, the cabin is a masterclass in bespoke design, from the Open Pore Galaxy Stone centre console to the richly grained ‘Kea Green’ leather accents — a nod to the South Island’s mischievous native parrot. Even the six o’clock steering wheel spoke and grab handles are finished in this deep olive-emerald shade, subtly tying in the colour story of Fiordland’s forested valleys.
Beyond aesthetics, the car has been engineered with both urban and off-road exploration in mind. Built on a foundation of performance and comfort, it comes equipped with Bentley’s Touring and All-Terrain Specifications, ensuring capability on even the most rugged backcountry roads. A bespoke, colour-matched roof box offers additional storage for longer escapes, while 22-inch Azure Wheels in Beluga Gloss with Cyprus pockets provide an effortlessly elegant stance. Inside, acoustic privacy glass, mood lighting, and a B&O for Bentley audio system create a cocooned, cinematic experience for passengers.
A tribute to (and reminder of) New Zealand’s spectacular natural environment and a true collector’s item, the Bentley Mulliner Aoraki is not only a masterpiece, but also a testament to how powerful a sense of connection can be — and a nod to Bentley’s ever-evolving ambition.
Every so often, we could all use a gentle nudge in the right direction when it comes to dining out. This season, that nudge is towards Somm Wine Bar & Bistro on Auckland’s Princes Wharf.
After a typically wet and weary Auckland winter, warmer climes and lighter spring menu edits usher in a welcome change. In keeping with their expansive local wine list (conveniently available by the glass) and a plethora of gastro offerings to boot, Somm’s October menu edit has arrived at precisely the right time.
Featuring lighter bites to share, like the crispy chilli salt squid alongside heartier mainstays like Venison bourguignon, leave the wine pairings up to the seasoned sommeliers and consider yourself in very safe hands.
Left to right: Crumbed green olive salad & Chilli salt squid
For a Friday night wine that quietly segues into dinner by the water, we can attest that the smaller shared plates here leave no crumbs. Somm’s green olive salad with rocket, pear and walnut sits neatly alongside a robust Chardonnay list, while the crab toasts offer a satisfying and flavour-filled bite.
Tucked into Princes Wharf with front-row harbour views, this wine bar and bistro is the kind of place you plan to pop into for a glass and yet somehow end up staying all evening. The cellar is a love letter to New Zealand’s best producers — with an ever-evolving food menu that echoes the same sentiment.
There’s something to be said about updating your sleepwear as frequently as you do your wardrobe. After all, you likely spend more time in it than anything else, and luxurious fabrics and chic cuts go a long way.
Perfectly timed to coincide with springtime clear-outs and wardrobe refreshes, this month sees the unveiling of the highly anticipated Papinelle x Karen Walker sleepwear collection, entitled Garden Reverie, designed to celebrate femininity through elevated floral prints and muted hues.
Love Letter Full Length PJ
This limited-edition, luxury collection invites wearers to slow down and unwind in style, a dreamy ode to nature. Here, Karen Walker’s whimsical prints and romantic florals take centre stage, effortlessly paired with Papinelle’s renowned lightweight, eco-friendly fabrics across a range of separates — from short and full-length pyjamas to nightgowns and robes. This year’s collection also offers a Mum and Mini addition, with children’s sizing now available in selected styles.
The collaborative collection between the two legacy brands — now in its seventh year — is both refined and utterly relaxed, offering a line of sleepwear that not only looks chic but feels like a soft, airy dreamscape. Whether you’re lounging on a sunny spring morning or drifting off for a peaceful night’s sleep, this edit brings a softened elegance and contemporary whimsy to downtime.
Karen Walker Love Letter Crop Boxer PJ from Papinelle
Karen Walker Love Letter Flutter Boxer PJ from Papinelle
Karen Walker Love Letter Silk Wrap PJ from Papinelle
Karen Walker Seersucker Stripe Full Length PJ Set from Papinelle
Going beyond aesthetics alone, the collection was conceived to conjure a serene sense of relaxation, and a momentary escape from the bustle of life. “Pyjamas should work for sleeping, lounging or spending a whole day in them,” says designer Karen Walker. “Papinelle’s fabrics are key, from cottons to machine-washable silk, and our prints bring them to life, making every piece practical, beautiful and chic enough to live in all day.”
Across the range you’ll find something for everyone, from buttery yellow seersucker to soft florals in a variety of pastel hues, with a wide range of cuts to choose from — dependant on what makes you feel your best, and will inspire relaxation.
Lilies Crop PJ
Perfect for both home lounging and even casual outings, the Garden Reverie collection cleverly blurs the line between sleepwear and daywear, offering versatility with a refined twist, and turning downtime into a luxurious escape.
To celebrate the new Papinelle x Karen Walker collaboration, we’re giving away one set of pyjamas from the new collection, up to the value of $430. Consider gifting to someone special or treat yourself with the ultimate in elevated sleepwear.
The full Garden Reverie collection can be purchased online now and from Papinelle boutiques.
Before the neighbourhood runners incite a riot on their morning route — first let us explain. While pounding the pavement as the sun rises is by no means bad, doing so at dusk might just be better for you.
1. Less chance of injury
While you may have been sitting at a computer all day, as dusk sets in, your body is in peak condition — core temperature is elevated and the body is ready to respond to terrain change — more so than when you first rolled groggily out of bed.
2. Blow off some steam
How often do you wake up with pent up stress? We thought so. Hitting the streets after a long day at work can provide the stress and endorphin release that you — and the people you come home to — actually need.
3. Burn more
Your metabolism may take a little while to kick in after fasting all night, but a pre-dinner run when your metabolism is already fully functional will help burn calories well into the night and likely influence you to eat cleaner at dinner time. The added bonus of a dusk run? There will be significantly less temptation to indulge in any late night sweet treats.
4. Sleep Better
Previous studies may suggest that vigorous exercise shortly before bedtime disturbs sleep however a recent study proved the complete opposite, with participants drifting off 30 minutes post-exercise, possibly due to reduced blood pressure. Meanwhile, the jury is still out on sugar and screens, two major sleep disruptors.
Hot off a wildly successful few years stateside, New York-based contemporary artist Natasha Wright is now set to take up residence at her New Zealand gallery Sanderson, with an anticipated new solo show entitled Main Character — scheduled to run from Wednesday, October 15, through until November 9.
The show will feature nine original works fresh from Wright’s Brooklyn studio. Each is a celebration of the sinuous female form, rendered through Wright’s multilayered social commentary. Through the tactility of paint, Wright’s sweeping canvases are awash in muddied pinks and warming honey hues, each stroke a celebration of womanhood at its most elusive.
Main Character, 2025, by Natasha Wright, Oil on canvas, 1220 x 1525 mm
Main Character “emphasises the interchangeability between the ideal woman and the physical and cultural history that shapes her long hair and lovely waist.” Wright is, and perhaps always has been, unpacking what it truly means to be living in your feminine.
Best known for “exploring the dichotomies of womanhood and the gender-driven power dynamics perpetuated in popular culture,” Wright is an artist whose message has continued to evolve in a captivating way. Living and working in New York for almost a decade, the New Zealander has developed a distinct creative language that marries various iterations of the female form with the rich qualities of oil paint. Wright’s pieces draw the onlooker in with calligraphic brushstrokes, evocative colours, layered techniques and compelling forms.
Waist – Deep, 2025, by Natasha Wright, Oil on canvas, 1525 x 1780 mm
For Wright, the main character’s humanity is firmly located in her body — and in a time when a woman’s right to choose is wildly under threat in the United States, Wright’s work feels more necessary now than ever.
See here for the Issue 50 cover story on Natasha Wright.
With a whole host of free exhibitions currently on show, read on to learn more about what’s on our radar this season.
celebrate the life and work of prolific New Zealand artist, Louise Bourgeois, at ‘Louise Bourgeois: In Private View’
01. Louise Bourgeois: In Private View
Louise Bourgeois: In Private View celebrates the life and work of prolific French American artist, Louise Bourgeois. This free exhibit — on show until May 2026 — brings together a selection of works sourced from a private collection, available to the public for the very first time. The exhibition spans over six decades of Bourgeois’ highly influential career, from early paint studies to a fabric piece from the final year of her life. Widely known for her sculptures and installations, Bourgeois’ work explored the surreal and the subconscious, often drawing from her own personal experience.
Wastelands: Wastelands – Brett Graham, Wastelands (installation view), 2024, wood, synthetic polymer paint, steel, found wagon wheels, macrocarpa wood, paint, oilbased acrylic lacquer, wax. Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, purchased with the assistance of the Patrons of the Auckland Art Gallery 2024
02. Brett Graham, Wastelands
Fresh off its presentation at the 60th Venice Biennale, gallery goers will be given the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Brett Graham’s monumental sculpture, Wastelands. This commanding and historically significant piece — crafted from a combination of wood, steel, found wagon wheels, macrocarpa and acrylic lacquer wax — provides an emotive commentary on the Waikato-Tainui land conflict and the devastating effects on the tribal people and their land. Accompanied by a video installation, Graham’s work marks a significant acquisition for the gallery and is not to be missed.
03. Artland: An Installation by Do Ho Suh and children
Fit for the whole family, the whimsically collaborative, hands-on clay installation entitled Artland — designed by South Korean artist Do Ho Suh and his young daughters — is on show until July 2026. The installation features imaginative creatures and fantastical landscapes and invites visitors of all ages to sculpt their own creations.
Marvel at the eight-metre large fabric sculpture that appears suspended in space, hanging from the ceiling in the heart of the Gallery’s building. Identified as one of Suh’s most significant early pieces, North Wall is a vibrant green fabric sculpture, inspired by the artist’s father’s studio in Seoul and modelled after a traditional Korean scholar house. The piece — rendered using fabric techniques that have become synonymous with Suh’s practice — explores themes of longing, memory and cultural displacement.
Paul Gauguin Cow in Meadow, Rouen, 1884, oil on canvas, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, gift of Julian and Josie Robertson through the Auckland Art Gallery Foundation, 2023
05. The Robertson Gift: Paths through Modernity
For the modernists among us, prepare to marvel at a 15-piece donation of iconic works, courtesy of the estate of New York-based philanthropists, Julian and Josie Robertson.
Works include Modernist masterpieces by the likes of Braque, Cezanne, Dalí, Derain, Gauguin, Matisse and Picasso and will be free to view until February 2026.
Don’t miss the final Open Late Night of the year
What’s more, on Thursday October 16, the Auckland Art Gallery will once again open its doors after dark, for the largest and final Open Late Night of the year — a free admission event — will see the gallery’s North Atrium transform into a hive of activity, with live music, an assortment of food trucks and the Bourgeois Bar keeping gallery goers satiated from six until 9pm. Shop art and NZ-made from Auckland Art Gallery Shop here.
If your idea of celebrating involves sweeping lake views, architectural drama, and a guest list with multiple VIPs, Kinloch Manor delivers with cinematic flair. Whether you’re hosting a marquee wedding for 250, a golden anniversary for 20, or a wintery long-table dinner for your inner circle, this is a venue that adjusts to your vision.
Designed by Andrew Patterson, with interiors by Virginia Fisher (translation: design pedigree for days), this Central North Island destination pairs grand scale with quiet restraint. Kinloch is an architectural wonder perched above Lake Taupō — dramatic yet grounded, luxurious yet relaxed.
The events team is calm, confident, and brilliantly capable. Menus are crafted with organic produce from its sister property, Treetops, and the wine pairings are spot on. Rooms have stone fireplaces, deep tubs, and neutral tones, making them the kind of spaces you never want to leave.
If exclusivity and elegance are the brief, Kinloch is the answer.
More maximalist than minimal, the proof is in the pudding that our home — or rather the way a home is designed —can and should make us happier.
Backed by neuroscience and popularised by TikTok, interior design that boosts your serotonin levels and releases oxytocin is the ultimate end goal. Enter dopamine décor — a glass half-full approach to design that’s more emotive than it is trend-based.
While dopamine dressing might feel a little more straightforward — wear what makes you happy, essentially —both philosophies ultimately share the same principles. Think vibrant colours and prints that immediately elevate not only your home’s aesthetic but also uplift your mood, simultaneously activating neural pathways and releasing the feel good love hormones we crave. Think sumptuous statement sofas like Studio Italia’s ZaZa, rugs that spark memory of a milestone vacation or fabrications that soothe your senses or regulate your nervous system — the opportunities are endless.
2:1 Residence by Róisín Lafferty
While colour can and should be approached through a pared back lens for the more subdued, bolder hues are making their mark in the modern home and imbuing interiors with more personality and pep than ever before. So go on, get happy.
Is there anything quite as satisfying as tucking into a flavourful, vibrant plate of Mexican ? Luckily, in Auckland there are certainly no shortage of tasty taquerias and casual cantinas to find your fix, from cheap and cheerful to more elevated takes, and a veritable spectrum in between. Here, we round up a (non-exhaustive) edit of some of the best in the game, perfect for indulging in when the craving strikes.
A landmark new residential offering, Pillars is set to redefine luxury living across two distinctive addresses: the urban elegance of College Hill, and the refined intimacy of Dublin Street.
Responding to the duality of our urban lifestyles, Pillars feels perfectly aligned as the development Auckland has been waiting for. A bold, design-led offering that responds to the growing desire for homes that are both architecturally striking and genuinely liveable. Conceived by award-winning developer Precinct, this exclusive collection of 20 two-three bedroom homes (with additional media rooms) unfolds across one of the city’s most picturesque ridge lines with it’s vantage point serving a visual symphony of both shimmering water, and our vibrant cityscape.
The coveted, top of the ridge site spans 2,364 square metres between College Hill, Freemans Bay and Dublin Street, St Marys Bay, affording the best of both worlds, with the vibrancy of Ponsonby on your doorstep, and the serenity of St Marys Bay in your backyard.
College Hill, Freemans Bay’s front facade
Embracing this theme of duality, the architecture and interior design, conceived by Jasmax, expresses two distinct interpretations of modern luxury, each tailored to its streetscape and united by a shared commitment to enduring design and exceptional craftsmanship. Each home is crafted with meticulous detail to enhance the rhythms of modern life while offering a sanctuary of calm, comfort, and privacy. These are homes that are still connected to the vibrancy of urban life, yet refined by a quiet elegance that feels entirely homely.
Pillars of College
At 99 College Hill, Freemans Bay, 16 light-filled apartments are set across four levels, many capturing awe-inspiring, sweeping harbour and city views that continually transform from sunrise to sunset, when the glittering lights of our vibrant skyline come to life.
Pillars of College, Freemans Bay
Elevating its presence further, the building’s sculptural façades, fluted concrete detailing, and generous balconies echo the rhythm of urban living. Refined, expansive, and effortlessly connected, these homes balance bold architectural presence with quiet, everyday luxury and ease. The curved, fluted forms of the exterior create a striking silhouette from the street, while also providing natural rhythm and privacy to the homes within. Taking everyday luxury lifestyle elements into consideration, details such as the depth of the balconies have been carefully conceived, maximising on the spectacular view while encouraging outdoor living.
Inside, Jasmax has curated homes that feel as timeless as they do contemporary. Dual-aspect floorplans allow sunlight to move fluidly through the interiors, while open layouts invite a sense of ease. Soft material palettes lend each interior a sense of calm, warmth and permanence, while modern essentials, such as secure parking with EV infrastructure, private lift access, abundant storage, and sustainability features that prioritise health, comfort, and long-term efficiency, are seamlessly integrated across both addresses.
Pillars of College’, featuring its northern façade and gardens
Four of the ground-floor apartments open onto private, landscaped gardens, ideal for those who want to rightsize, but not compromise on outdoor space.
Pillars of Dublin
For those seeking a more intimate expression of contemporary living, Pillars of Dublin in St Marys Bay offers just four boutique homes. Situated along one of Auckland’s most iconic villa-lined streets, here, the neighbourhood’s heritage cues are reimagined through a modern lens.
Pillars of Dublin, St Marys Bay
Pillar-like vertical accents reference the past; gabled rooflines and deep-set balconies hint at tradition. And yet, every material detail, from the botanical landscaping to the sumptuous interiors, speaks to a new era of understated luxury.
This address is a quiet revelation, one that feels at once connected and discreet. Designed with scale, privacy and light in mind, each home unfolds with clarity and grace. The north-facing living areas extend to lush gardens or elevated balconies, inviting a sense of openness rarely found in inner-city homes. Inside, the flexible floorplans cater to a range of lifestyles, with two-three bedrooms plus a media room, generous storage, and subtle zoning between private and shared spaces.
understated luxurious interiors
The architecture carefully respects the character of the street, but elevates it through refined detailing and contemporary composition. Ribbed concrete and GRC panelling create texture and rhythm, while internal finishes balance sculptural form with natural tactility. While the interiors lean warm and welcoming, with natural textures, soft tones, and an enduring palette setting the perfect backdrop for daily life. Sustainability, too, has a part to play, with the use of eco-certified materials and high-performance insulation ensuring year-round comfort and long-term efficiency.
The result is a series of homes that are deeply rooted in their context, yet quietly progressive in their execution. Places that speak to the elegance of the past while embracing the freedoms of modern life.
Step into a lifestyle of elevation without compromise
At its core, Pillars is designed for how people live now. Flexible enough to adapt to our evolving needs, yet timeless in its aesthetic. Whether you’re seeking the lock-and-leave freedom of apartment living, or simply looking to be closer to the vibrancy of Ponsonby, these homes offer a lifestyle of elevation without compromise. The outlooks are impressive, the detailing exquisite, and every line, surface and proportion has been designed to enhance daily life.
*All images are artist‘s impressions only. Subject to final design.
Far from flirty or frivolous, this season’s collections are giving the most traditionally feminine hue a bold reimagining.
It’s high time to consider pink — from bubblegum to blush — back, in a major way. From structured tailoring to stiffer denim or a cashmere cardigan, the shade we’re currently coveting is anything but cutesie. There’s the simplicity of Harris Tapper’s Garbo Dress, powder pink power suiting à la Alex Perry, and LOEWE’s Low-Rise Barrel Jean all currently vying for our attention.
Not totally sold? Start small and dip a toe in the colour pool by first accessorising with fine jewellery or reach for that patent leather clutch. Baby (pink) steps before you’re rose-tinted everything.
Wine expert David Nash of Studio Nash and The Wine Room shares his expertise on why fine wine is a sound investment.
Once upon a time, your typical fine wine investor had to fit a certain profile. Nowadays, things are opening right up, explains The Wine Room‘s expert and connoisseur, David Nash.
David Nash of Studio Nash and The Wine Room
“Until very recently, the wine world was a closed society,” Nash begins. “You had to earn your stripes just to meet the gatekeepers and buy serious investment pieces.”
“At The Wine Room, for example, you can use our concierge service when taking a cellar space underground. This taps you into a global network of access and a knowledge base of what to buy and when,” he notes. “We encourage new clients to attend our wine dinners to learn about the rarity and why these wines are so exceptional and sought after. This kind of experience is attracting a financially savvy (and much younger) buyer, plus a lot more women than ever before. It’s the best part of launching on Auckland’s College Hill, seeing this new wave of people getting the wine bug. Any wine industry report will tell you that young people don’t drink wine. Believe me, they do, they just don’t want to do it in the way the industry has prescribed for the past 100 years.”
Below, take heed of Nash’s top tips for anyone looking to dip a toe into the ever-illusive world of investing in fine wine.
01.
Think of wine as a liquid investment— and one that’s already proven its resilience. “The first major positive, fine wine or rare whisky, unlike equities, is an asset that you can lend against; it’s one of the only markets that has maintained or increased in value during volatile economic times,” Nash notes. “Over the past two years, investment in wine gave better returns than gold and crude oil. So it’s no wonder that people are switching to it as a portfolio diversifier. The other positive? You can drink it.”
02.
Consider your returns. “When you think about the major market crashes in the late 1980s, 2000s and Covid era up until now, a solid long-term 10 percent return would have been rather pleasant for those in the know.”
03.
Cellar and store correctly to reap the rewards. “It’s hard to think of any other consumable product that in most cases, will get incrementally better over time,” Nash explains. “There’s a pretty euphoric moment that follows opening up a prized bottle someone may have inherited with some serious age. The cork comes out in one and it’s pure liquid gold inside.”
04.
Do your due diligence. “Similar to buying a house, the seller of an investment piece must disclose everything they know about the wine and how it was stored,” Nash explains. “Upon purchase, you can request a condition report. You would be horrified at the incredible bottles that have been hiding in a hall cupboard, the dusty garage, or worse, under the house for twenty-something years. These conditions will dull the wines if not render them to vinegar. At The Wine Room, we have double redundancy in temperature and humidity control, fixed at the perfect conditions for long-term storage. We can certify these conditions for investors, so they can re-enter the market with the confidence that they can reach maximum return.”
05.
Diversify your portfolio. “I see a lot of very impressively sized cellars around the world, and you can instantly see, ‘oh, 1990 to 2000 was your Pinot Noir era.’ Or error. Buying too much of one thing or one producer based on an experience or passion. I know there are a few New Zealand producers who have marketed wines for a long time now as serious collectors’ pieces — now all that wine is hitting the market at the exact same time, fifteen years later. Prices have dropped due to the sudden influx.”
06.
Start local. “As New Zealanders, we’re in the box seat to take advantage of these gains,” says Nash. “Producers like Kumeu River, Bilancia and Felton Road are three good examples — producers that are at the ceiling of how much wine they can produce vs global demand. So what’s next? The market will drive the prices up. All three of those producers could sell all their top wines before they’re even made. I always buy as much as I can from these producers.”
07.
Consider the holy trinity — vintage, brand and scarcity value. “While critics and wine scores do play a role, in the true fine wine space, many producers choose not to engage too heavily with reviews as it can be dangerous. A critic is just one opinion — many are experts, but an unjust review can have a lasting impact.”
08.
Lean on the experts and do your homework. “For novice investors looking for guidance, start with one of our many wine dinners. All are either hosted by myself or by the very best winemakers in the country who are incredibly generous with their knowledge and have a fantastic way of making wine easy, accessible and fun. When guiding clients in building a cellar that balances both pleasure and potential, we have the traffic light system in all the cellars we set up. Green, grab and enjoy anytime with anyone. Amber will increase in value over time and offer serious drinking enjoyment. As for red? Consider these bottles very special wines that you should consider holding.”
09.
Forecast what’s next. “In terms of trends, the classics still reign supreme as there is a global market for them. Bordeaux is falling out of fashion with collectors, despite historically being the foundation of a great cellar. Personally, I believe in looking to the sides as a great investment strategy. What are the winemakers drinking? They usually have their great finger on the pulse of what’s next. Germany, South Africa, South America, Japan and China — all savvy regions that could seriously skyrocket in time.”
Victoria-based designer Sally Knibbs of Sally Caroline utilises natural stone and the versatility of mixed metals in this playful seaside residence, located on the fringes of Melbourne’s leafy Middle Park.
Sally Knibbs of Sally Caroline‘s directive was clear when tasked with reimagining a bayside Melbourne residence — optimise the view and soften sharp edges for a young family of four. Yet Knibbs’ approach throughout the 760 square-metre Middle Park home is anything but simplistic. Layered textiles, hand-rendered stonemasonry and molten metals collide, bringing depth and dimension to a previously angular and otherwise restricted architectural home. The interiors atelier paid close attention to the heart of the home — the kitchen — reworking the floor plan in a bid to herald the horizon line and better highlight the home’s spectacular outlook, a calming combination of cityscape and coastal views.
The result? A masterclass in nuanced, natural materials (think sheets of warped stainless and solid blocks of green veined marble) all while ushering in the coastline.
In the kitchen, Knibbs reoriented the focal point to face the bay. The space, now anchored by a monastic kitchen island hand-crafted from solid blocks of Arebescato, Brescia Green and Menta marble, speaks to both the designer’s penchant for natural stone and the necessity of modern family living. The stainless steel cabinetry is finished with bronze pulls, adding both artistry and warmth.
Upstairs, Knibbs looked to the light, removing heavy banquette seating in favour of a whimsical lounge setting, now positioned toward the bay to offer unobstructed views of the water. The dining den — now located to the northern side of the split level property — opts for warmth and convivial togetherness over fuss and formality. The designer leaned on materials wherever possible, cladding custom pieces in leather, bronze or stainless steel, to better reflect the home’s unparalleled outlook.
Custom pieces by the designer’s own studio decorate all three floors — leather-clad or hammered in bronze — in keeping with Knibbs’ own design sensibility. A whimsical perspex artwork by Sydney-based Dale Frank, a sourced rug by California core Kelly Wearstler and a tattooed credenza by Tyler Hays of American design studio BDDW all feel ultimately at home in a space that finely balances coastal calm, creativity and craftsmanship.
In the heart of Parnell, Elysian introduces a rare opportunity. Developed with Crosson Architects with interiors by Sarah Foote, the luxury residences sit across five levels, including two sweeping penthouses, setting a new benchmark for apartment living.
For many, the appeal of downsizing is not about living with less — it’s about living with more freedom. More time, more ease, more connection to the things that truly matter. In Parnell, Elysian presents an opportunity that speaks directly to this shift: 16 luxury residences, including two landmark penthouses, designed to offer permanence, privacy, and a new way of living well.
Left: Apartment 103. Right: Apartment 303
Developed with Crosson Architects with interiors by Sarah Foote, Elysian has been conceived as a place where quality and longevity take precedence over excess. Clad in stone with bronze-toned detailing, the architecture feels timeless; within, interiors are intentionally calm and effortless, allowing each home to reflect the lives and personalities of its residents. “Quiet luxury is the foundation,” notes Foote. “These are spaces designed for ease, with materials and layouts that will feel just as relevant decades from now.”
The Penthouse 502
For downsizers, the penthouses crown the experience. Spanning 308m² (including a 66m² terrace) and 295m² (including a 54m² terrace), they combine expansive scale with low-maintenance ease. Minimum 2.9-metre ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glazing open the homes to uninterrupted harbour views, while wraparound terraces offer privacy and seamless indoor-outdoor living — without the upkeep of a standalone house. Here, the shift to apartment living doesn’t mean compromise; it means gaining a new level of light, space, and simplicity.
The Residents’ Retreat by Studio Red Wellness
Lifestyle here extends far beyond the residences. The Residents’ Retreat by Studio Red Wellness includes a mineral pool, sauna, yoga and pilates studio, and private treatment room, ensuring health and wellbeing are part of the everyday. The executive garage makes daily life practical, with EV charging at every park, e-bike power, and even a detailing bay. In shared spaces, art by Max Gimblett and custom furniture by Tim Webber further the sense of luxury living, weaving in yet another element of considered design.
The Shared Courtyard
The executive garage
Equally compelling is the location. Elysian places residents at the heart of Parnell, within walking distance to galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and green spaces. It is a neighbourhood that offers connection and culture, yet the residences themselves provide sanctuary — a lock-and-leave lifestyle that balances vibrancy with retreat. For many moving from larger homes, this blend of accessibility and security is key: the chance to simplify, without sacrificing the richness of daily life.
The Penthouse 501 with Poliform Kitchen and Gaggenau appliances
Every detail speaks to the needs of those trading in the burden of maintenance for a home that is secure, connected, and uncompromising in its quality. Kitchens with Poliform cabinetry and Gaggenau appliances, oak flooring by Forté, and stone selected and fabricated in Italy are designed for longevity as much as beauty. Bedrooms are sanctuaries with generous storage and ensuites complete with dual basins, freestanding baths, and precision-planned layouts.
The bedroom sanctuarie in Apartment 402
Elysian is more than a place to live — it’s a way to live lighter, without losing the depth and character of home. For those ready to embrace the next chapter, these residences offer a sense of permanence, the ease of a lock-and-leave lifestyle, and the kind of luxury that becomes more rewarding with time.
Completion is set for late 2026. To experience Elysian and its rare penthouses, visit the display suite at 114 Saint Georges Bay Road, Parnell.
We love a birthday month — and so too, it seems, does Britomart’s Kingi. To celebrate turning five, our go-to inner-city eatery for a seafood-centric power lunch is offering five-dollar Te Matuku Oysters (naturally) alongside five-dollar affogatos or matcha from Wednesday, October 8 — with the option to upgrade to something a little headier.
In keeping with the festivities — and to beckon in the warmer weather — those who visit throughout October will be offered a glass of The Landing Rosé and a trio of snacks for $39.
To further sweeten the offer, anyone who purchases a glass of The Landing Rosé at Kingi during birthday month will automatically go into the draw to win an intimate tasting and lunch at The Landing. What’s more, throughout October, Kingi’s donating $1 for every cocktail spent directly to the Breast Cancer Foundation — in case you needed any further incentive to visit.
As Paris Fashion Week barrels towards a close, we’re dubbing this season one for the debutantes. Notable debuts took centre stage — Pierpaolo Piccioli’s Balenciaga, Jonathan Anderson at Dior and Matthieu Blazy for Chanel — while sartorial stalwarts made triumphant returns, dominating the City of Lights and its iconic landmarks, one arrondissement at a time.
There were supersized starchy bows and billowy silhouettes at Saint Laurent, draped tailoring at Louis Vuitton and peplumed pinstripes and coordinated minis at Stella McCartney. A visual feast of prints, hemlines, cinched waistlines, demure darting and sheer fabrications decorated the runways and sauntered down city streets.
For the fashion fandom, the FROW did not cease to disappoint — notably Greta Lee, Jenna Ortega, Rosalia, Johnny Depp, Kylie Jenner and Robin Wright sat front and centre, while Dame Helen Mirren leant her voice to Stella McCartney’s off-beat homage to mother nature, featuring sinuous tailoring and a spoken rendition of The Beatles’ ‘Come Together.’
Givenchy and Schiaparelli embraced the barely there trend and leant all the way into the naked dress while others — think Miu Miu and Chemena Kamali’s Chloé — harped back to their respective brand DNA with the sixties’ shift and romantic ruching. The ateliers at Victoria Beckham, Celiné and Chanel approached menswear and casual suiting with the kind of ease and confidence that’s become synonymous with all three, while Valentino and ALAÏA took a rose-tinted lens, cladding models in sequins, delicate lace appliqué and full plumage.
Since opening the doors to what was then Design Central in 2019, director Lindy Messam has witnessed the changing nature of our interior design landscape. Responding to this, Messam and her team have taken the decision to evolve into Obery, a destination atelier where materiality, artistry, and vision converge. Conceived as more than a showroom, this elevated atelier offers an immersive environment for exploration, connection, and discovery. It’s here that New Zealand’s most considered designers and architects are invited to engage deeply with a curated assemblage of rugs, handmade surfaces, and soon-to-be-released collections in sculptural furniture and lighting — each of which centres on quality and artistry, with an emphasis on unique materiality.
Rooted in the vision that shaped its name, Obery (named for founder and CEO Glenn Obery) is defined by a commitment to craft and creative collaboration. “Our heritage lies in the vision and expertise that shaped our name,” says Messam, “innovation emerges through the unique, handmade surfaces we champion and the artistry woven into each piece. Within Obery’s atelier, these threads converge, offering an immersive place where craft and creativity can be experienced in tangible form.” In this space, tradition and experimentation are not opposing forces, but parallel threads, each enriching the other.
In fact, creative director Jane Mason describes the studio’s evolution as one shaped by dualities: “New Zealand design leans into intimacy, heritage, and craft. Yet we’re equally inspired by a bolder creative lens; one that embraces scale, composition, and expressive form.” Obery bridges these perspectives through an offering that feels both grounded and expansive, inviting new interpretations of space, texture, and tone. The experience in Obery’s atelier is intentionally tactile. Sunlight drapes across heirloom rugs and unique hard surfaces, while artist-led furniture and lighting highlights the boldness and depth of each piece’s materiality, revealing unexpected nuance. Here, designers are encouraged to pause, linger, and engage. Every piece has been curated not simply to be placed, but to hold presence. The resulting atelier is less a presentation of objects, and more a series of immersive moments.
As its collection grows, so too does Obery’s ambition to shape a richer, more layered design experience in Aotearoa. “We envision Obery as a destination atelier,” Mason explains, “a space for brand discovery, inspiration, and collaboration, where the design community can explore, experiment, and create with confidence.”
For those seeking to work with objects of depth, Obery offers not only the tools, but the setting to transform creative intent into enduring design.
There’s something irresistible about bread pulled fresh from the oven — especially when it comes in the form of manoushe, Lebanon’s answer to the perfect breakfast flatbread. So it feels fitting that Elie Assaf, the exceptional chef behind Lebanese Grocer, has opened a new pop-up window next door dedicated entirely to just that.
Manoushe Cheese & Za’atar
Za’atar Bakehouse by Lebanese Grocer is as simple as it sounds: a hatch, a hot oven, and a short list of flavours designed to transport you straight to the streets of Beirut. Think gooey Manoushe Cheese & Za’atar, or Lahm Bi Ajeen, a wagyu beef-topped flatbread that reimagines the iconic Lebanese staple. Assaf calls it “our take on the iconic Lebanese breakfast flatbreads from my childhood” — and it’s clear this is food made with nostalgia as much as skill.
Za’atar Bakehouse Window
Lahm Bi Ajeen (beef wagyu)
Open on an ad-hoc basis (with the next outing happening Saturday, October 4th from 10am until sold out), the Bakehouse is very much a catch-it-while-you-can experience. Those in the know will already be glued to Instagram for updates, because like everything Assaf touches, it’s destined to sell out fast.
For Aucklanders who have already fallen in love with Lebanese Grocer’s shelves of pickles, za’atar, and housemade ba’alawa (not to mention the exceptional shawarma come lunchtime), this new venture feels like a natural, and delicious, evolution.
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