our resident nutritionist, Dr. Sarah Mitchell-Weston

Ask an expert: We chat to Dr. Sarah Mitchell Weston on the ins & outs of plant-based eating

by Dr. Sarah Mitchell Weston

We chat to our resident nutritionist, Dr. Sarah Mitchell-Weston, on the power of plants, and why, when it comes to nutrition, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

In our constant pursuit of optimal health, we forget that the most simple steps are often the most impactful. Nutrition should be our first port of call when it comes to improving our overall wellbeing, and incorporating more plant-based foods into our diets could be the ticket to preventative health.

Why is plant-based eating so effective in reducing the risk of illness and combating poor health?

Plant-based eating has garnered a considerable following in recent years due to its impressive impact on reducing the risk of various chronic illnesses and combating poor health. Plant-based diets are rich in nutrients that boost immune health and reduce inflammation, leading causes of many chronic illnesses today. But it’s important to note that these benefits are seen in vegan diets that are primarily wholefood-based and minimally processed.

What are three ways that a plant-based diet positively impacts our health?

A wholefood, plant-based diet can positively impact our diet in several ways. The key for me is the benefit to digestive health. Plant-based diets generally have a higher prebiotic (fibre) content, which feeds beneficial gut bacteria and promotes a healthy gut microbiome. Plants are also rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants, which protect cells from free radical damage and reduce cancer risk. A plant-based diet is also associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, by reducing cholesterol and blood pressure.

What are the key nutrients we need in our diets to thrive?

The answer to this question could fill a book! There are many nutrients that are key which are termed “essential” — that is, those your body cannot make on its own and need to be obtained through diet. But the basic ones are your macros — protein, carbohydrates, and fats, plus water, and your micros — vitamins and minerals. These are what you need to survive; to thrive you need to go a step further and ensure you are getting the optimal quantity and quality of each macro and micronutrient, specific to your age, health, activity, and lifestyle.

It’s a common assumption that adopting a plant-based diet means missing out on key nutrients. What’s your take?

There is some truth in this. The most well-known example is that dietary sources of vitamin B12 are only found in animal products, so on a strictly plant-based diet, supplementation with B12 is crucial. Another example is collagen. While not an essential nutrient (your body can make collagen from the amino acids from the protein you eat) but collagen is only found in animals, and eating collagen (or taking supplements) optimises collagen production in the body. There are many more, from iron to zinc, calcium, and omega 3 (to name a few) can be low in a plant-based diet that isn’t managed properly.

Do you encourage a fully plant-based diet, or a more holistic approach?

A fully plant-based diet can be a healthy choice for some, but I recommend a session with a qualified nutritionist to ensure all nutrient requirements are met — and remember, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing! Eating more plants is always a good idea.

Dr. Sarah Mitchell Weston
Recommends
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benutrition.co.nz

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Man O' War
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Young Guns Skate School

Staying put these school holidays? We round up the best activities in Auckland to keep boredom at bay

The school holidays have come around faster than we can fathom once again. For parents everywhere, it feels like the school year has just begun, yet we’re only a few months out from summer. As we are once again left to find ways to entertain our small humans this October, we’re keeping things local — after all, there are plenty of school holiday activities in Auckland to stave off boredom and keep the whole family entertained.

Experience the newly-unveiled Man O’ War zipline

Man O’ War Forest Flight

When: Wednesday to Sunday, from 9.00am until 2.15pm
Where: Man ‘O War, Waiheke Island — book your spot here

The newly-unveiled Man O’ War Forest Flight experience transcends the usual adrenaline hit of a zipline, weaving above and below the towering Kauri canopies with the Hauraki Gulf as your backdrop. Here, three tandem ziplines span over 900m, connected by 660m of elevated boardwalk, through the mesmerising Man O’ War Forest — an ecological haven steeped in 300 years of heritage. Strap into a comfortable, full-sit, hands-free, forward-facing harness (no awkward spinning) with custom Zipstop braking for a smooth ride. Plus, a tandem set up ensures you can share this unforgettable experience side-by-side with the family. And, post-zip, touch down at the exquisite beachfront Tasting Room and Restaurant for a spot of lunch (and celebratory vino for parents). Bliss.

Discover what it takes to be a zookeeper for the day at Auckland Zoo

Zookeeper for a Day

When: now until Sunday the 13th of October
Where: Auckland Zoo — book tickets here

At Auckland Zoo these October holidays, kids can discover what it takes to be a Zookeeper — and all of the science and work that goes into caring for animals’ total wellbeing. From insight into caring for Aotearoa New Zealand’s inquisitive kea to big cats like tigers and the world’s largest land mammal, Asian elephant Burma, the ‘Keeper for a Day’ science of care activity booklet kick-starts the zookeeping experience. There’ll be lots of fun activities in ‘The Domes’, from colouring-in, games and puzzles to a reading corner and videos featuring the zookeepers and veterinary team caring for animals at the Zoo, as well as daily Keeper Talks to see and hear from keepers first-hand.

Full Spectrum & Dance-O-Mat

When: now until Sunday the 13th of October, 8:30am until 10:30pm
Where: Aotea Square — free

Aotea Square is playing host to a number of entertaining activities these school holidays, from the Full Spectrum interactive sculpture — a striking set of seven rainbow hexagonal sculptures that invite you to immerse yourself in a dynamic display of colour, to the Dance-O-Mat — an urban dance floor for all. Connect your phone, pick your favourite song, push the red button and dance, or, enjoy free 60-90 minute dance workshops across a range of genres — free to all.

bring your very own robot character to life with this hands-on experience by Weta Workshop

Robot Sculpting Workshop with Weta Workshop

When: now until Sunday the 13th of October
Where: SkyCity — book tickets here

Inspired by Roz the robot’s epic journey in The Wild Robot movie, this hands-on experience lets young artists bring their very own robot character to life. Guided by Weta’s talented Unleashed crew, young sculptors will learn the basics of creating 3D characters using simple household materials and modelling clay, crafting a futuristic robot friend from scratch. With plenty of one-on-one time with the expert crew, attendees will have the opportunity to get creative, crafting a unique robot sculpture to take home and display with pride.

Learn how to skate in a fun-filled environment by top New Zealand skateboarders

Young Guns Skate School Holiday Programme

When: Monday the 7th & Tuesday the 8th of October, 9:30am until 11:30am
Where: Victoria Park — book your spot here

Inviting kids to learn to skate with the pros, Young Guns Skate School teaches skateboarding, safety, responsibility, respect and perseverance — taught in a fun-filled environment by top New Zealand skateboarders. Kids of all levels are welcome, and there are a number of locations across the city, from Victoria Park to Waterview. Classes run for two hours, and promise a fun challenge and essential confidence and skill building for littles.

Bring a touch and enjoy a night at the museum

Night at Auckland Museum — Time Warp!

When: now until Friday the 11th of October, 6:30pm until 9pm
Where: Auckland Museum — book your spot here

Bring a torch and join the mysterious Dr. When and his intrepid assistant, Dodo, on an incredible time-travelling adventure through the darkened museum. This evening event takes attendees on a journey through history, brought to life with interactive theatre, games, and hands-on activities. From creating woodblock prints with poet and paper-maker Xue Tao to piecing together a dinosaur skeleton with pioneering fossil hunter Mary Anning, to discovering wartime stories, to the finale — a theatre performance where you’ll travel back 150 million years for some possible dinosaur sightings, this is sure to be a night to remember.

Watch the spellbinding story of Peter Pan at ASB Waterfront Theatre

Auckland Theatre Company’s Peter Pan

When: Tuesday the 8th of October until Sunday the 3rd of November
Where: ASB Waterfront Theatre — book your spot here

An unmissable and captivating experience for all ages, the magic of J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan is set to enrapture audiences this October. Prepare for delightful twists in this wondrously inventive production, as the spellbinding story of Peter Pan, the boy who never grows up, is brought to life by one of New Zealand’s most innovative theatre creators.

Don’t miss your last chance to see this immersive exhibition

RELICS: A New World Rises — Last Chance

When: now until Sunday the 13th of October
Where: Auckland Museum — book your spot here

Don’t miss your final chance to take the kids to experience the world of Lego like never before in this immersive exhibition created by Australian Lego Masters Jackson Harvey and Alex Towler. Amongst the ‘relics’ you’ll see a grandfather clock that’s been turned into a time machine, a cryonics facility nestled inside a vintage refrigerator keeping minifigures on ice, and a retro arcade with airlocks and elevators that connect a series of gaming machines to form a futuristic spaceport… and much more — offering an intriguing escape.

Create a Surrealist Sculpture

When: now until Sunday the 13th of October, 11am until 3pm
Where: Auckland Art Gallery — free

Inspired by Auckland Art Gallery’s Modern Women: Flight of Time exhibition, which highlights the leading role women artists have played in shaping the development of modern art in Aotearoa New Zealand through seizing control of their own representation, kids are invited to put their artistic hats on at the gallery this October school holidays, and try their hand at crafting a surrealist sculpture drawing on the exhibition.

Head to the PumpHouse Theatre to enjoy this funny farmyard adventure

Mrs Wishy-Washy at The Pumphouse

When: now until Saturday the 12th of October
Where: The PumpHouse Theatre — book your spot here

In this funny farmyard adventure, audiences will be treated to comical chaos as Mrs Wishy-Washy attempts to give her muddy animal buddies a good scrub. This tale teaches valuable lessons about determination, friendship and the consequences of one’s actions, while offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy some good, clean, laugh-out loud fun.

Culture

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Joan
Wolfs

From gripping new series to exceptional movies, here is everything to watch in the coming months

From gripping new dramas to side-splitting comedies to big-name blockbusters and more, here is everything to add to your watch list this spring.

New Movies


Joker: Folie à Deux

In cinemas 3rd of October

Returning to the role that earned him an Academy Award, Joaquin Phoenix masterfully depicts the titular Joker alongside Harley Quinn, played by Oscar-winner Lady Gaga. This moving musical sequel is directed by Todd Phillips (Joker, 2019), and promises a thrill ride of mastery and madness. 


Gladiator II

In cinemas 14th of November

Ridley Scott is revisiting one of his most iconic films with Gladiator II, which stars Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Denzel Washington. The sequel picks up from where Gladiator left off, with a new fighter, Commodus’ nephew Lucius (Mescal) — then a child, now a man — ready to enter the arena.


Wolfs

Watch now on Apple TV+

Hollywood royalty Brad Pitt and George Clooney reunite in this thrilling action-comedy that follows two lone wolf fixers who are assigned the same job. Clooney, who plays a professional fixer hired to cover up a high-profile crime, is forced to join forces with Pitt — the two finding the job spiralling out of control in ways that neither expected.


Lee

Watch now in cinemas

Oscar-winning Kate Winslet stars in this biopic centred on the great American war correspondent, Lee Miller. Miller, who worked for Vogue during WWII, captured many of the 20th century’s most recognisable and indelible images of war, putting her life on the line to do so. A life lived at full-throttle, beautifully portrayed in all of its harrowing brilliance.

New TV Series


The Perfect Couple

Watch now on Netflix

Based on Elin Hilderbrand’s bestseller of the same name, The Perfect Couple stars Nicole Kidman, Liev Schreiber, and Dakota Fanning. Set on Nantucket during a lavish Fourth of July wedding, the discovery of a body disrupts the high-society event, leading to a gripping investigation. Directed by Susanne Bier, the six-part drama promises a thrilling journey of suspense and suspicion. 


La Maison

Watch now on Apple TV+

Delving into the cut-throat world of haute couture, La Maison centres on a scandal that rocks the foundations of a legendary fashion house. As an unlikely pair strive to resurrect an iconic brand amid familial turmoil, they face off against a ruthless CEO intent on seizing the maison. This French-language saga explores ambition, rivalry, and the high-stakes drama of the fashion elite.


Nobody Wants This

Watch now on Netflix

Starring Kristen Bell and Adam Brody, Nobody Wants This follows Joanne and Noah, an unconventional pair who begin an unlikely romance in this loosely autobiographical comedy series by Erin Foster. The side-splitting and heartwarming comedy explores the challenges of finding love amidst differing beliefs and personalities, promising unexpected connections and comedic chaos. 


How To Die Alone

Watch now on Disney+

Natasha Rothwell gets a new lease on life in How to Die Alone, an uproarious comedy series which follows Mel (Rothwell), a down-and-out JFK airport employee who’s never been in love and forgotten how to dream, as an accidental brush with death catapults her on a journey to finally take flight and start living by any means necessary.


Joan

Watch now on Neon

Sophie Turner stars as the infamous Godmother of London’s criminal underworld, jewel thief Joan Hannington, in a 1980s-set, six-part drama series based on a captivating true story. Pulling off heists and embarking on a thrilling, high-stakes journey; driven by her love for her only daughter, Joan uses her intelligence and charm to become a master of disguise — promising a twisting, turning thrill-ride through underground Britain.

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the green one — absolut pears, midori, acidified apple, anise

Alluring new drinks and epic music collide at Soul Bar & Bistro’s Ab-SOUL-ut October

The team at Soul have many tricks up their sleeves, but crafting delicious drinks (and putting on a damn good party) sits pretty high on the list — and this October, the vibrant waterfront eatery has teamed up with Absolut to deliver a spring celebration sure to lure you out of the house.

the clear one — absolut elyx, lillet blanc, orange bitters & orange zest

Soul has taken our favourite fun-maker (Absolut), mixing and mingling the many delightful spirits within the range to craft a series of libations that redefine everything you know about a classic cocktail. Whether you’re a devotee, an enthusiast, a fan or fanatic, you’ll find delight in every drop.

All available for a very reasonable $18 (particularly when you know the care that goes into crafting each drink), revellers will choose from a number of alluring elixirs, with something for every taste and proclivity (and to match every outfit).

‘The Clear One’ pairs Absolut Elyx, with Lillet Blanc, orange bitters, and orange zest, while ‘The Blue One’ is a heady mix of Absolut Peach, fresh peach, and blue curaçao, and ‘The Red One’ sees Absolut Wild Berri mixed with blackcurrant, acidified apple, pineapple, and soda.

And, in the essence of spring and to mark the beginning of longer days and lighter nights, Soul will be kicking off the weekend a little early every week in October, with mid-week funky fun from
DJ’s Chris Keene, Raoul, Goldman Sax, Venetia, and Mac Mylo taking to the decks on Wednesdays and Thursday from 5—7pm.

Left to right: the clear one, the green one, the blue one & the red one

Soul’s Ab-SOUL-ut October is set to be an unmissable month-long celebration, bringing together the vibrancy of Soul with the iconic spirits of Absolut — inspiring city-siders to indulge in a little springtime celebration.

soulbar.co.nz

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Age Concern is a charity providing critical support for the elderly — here’s how you can help

Loneliness is a rapidly spreading epidemic, with the elderly the most severely impacted. In fact, around 50 percent of over-60s have become at risk of social isolation, with one-third feeling a lack of companionship most of the time. Fortunately, charities such as Age Concern are working to provide critical emotional and social support to seniors struggling with solitude, ensuring they remain engaged and active members of society.

Age Concern
The Background

Age Concern New Zealand is a local charity dedicated to over-65s, promoting dignity, wellbeing, equity and respect amongst seniors. Through expert guidance and support services which respond to an individual’s bespoke needs, the charity works to ensure that older people stay connected with their family, friends and community, and have the support they need to thrive. 

Age Concern
What They Do

Local Age Concerns throughout New Zealand are the first port of call for older people in their communities. On a macro level, the charity offers expertise and knowledge, providing national support and keeping the government and other national bodies informed on issues of concern for older people. On a micro level, Age Concern’s Dignity Champions are on-hand to support those struggling with loneliness, acting as a companion for isolated seniors, with regular visits and social activities amongst the services on offer. 

Age Concern
How To Get Involved

If you want to support Age Concern and the important work they’re doing for the elderly of New Zealand, you can head to their website to donate, fundraise, volunteer as a dignity champion, and more. But no matter how you choose to support the charity — either with money or time, you’ll be making a difference to the lives of our local elderly population experiencing loneliness.

ageconcern.org.nz

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Articolo Rolo Extra Large Up Down pendant from ecc

Elevate your space with this striking new lighting collection, inspired by 80s Milanese design

When it comes to  adding the final details to a kitchen’s design, selecting lighting that complements material finishes without taking all the aesthetic glory is paramount. Rounded forms will help to soften a typically linear backdrop formed by bench tops and cabinetry.

A new lighting collection from Articolo Studios, Rolo unites glamour, modernist form and elegance. Taking design cues from an iconic design era, Rolo’s bold forms and fluid silhouettes feel both timely and timeless, emphasising exquisite geometry and simplistic beauty. The Rolo Collection comprises wall sconces, pendants, and lamps reminiscent of 1980s Milanese design while still remaining markedly contemporary.

Articolo Rolo wall sconce, facing backward from ECC
Articolo Rolo double down pendant from ECC
Articolo Rolo mini table lamp from ECC
Articolo Rolo table lamp from ECC
Articolo Rolo wall sconce from ECC

ecc.co.nz

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Build the perfect spring wardrobe base with these sartorial essentials


A seasonal change doesn’t require a full wardrobe overall — stick to a solid base of reliable essentials to ensure a smooth and chic transition into the warmer months ahead.

Spring Capsule Wardrobe
01. Denim Jacket
Anine Bing Rory Denim Jacket from Muse
KHAITE Ross oversized denim jacket from net-a-Porter
Short Denim Jacket from Louis Vuitton
Denim jacket with Gucci print from Gucci
Spring Capsule Wardrobe
02. Ballet Flats
GIA BORGHINI Grete Mesh Bow Ballerina from Muse
Nappa leather ballerinas from Prada
Dior Ballet Flat from Christian Dior
St. Agni Soft Glove Leather Ballet Flats from Moda Operandi
Spring Capsule Wardrobe
03. Polo Shirt
Extra fine rib cashmere knit top from Gucci
Theory Polo Popover from Muse
Guest in Residence
Shrunken Polo from Ssense
BODE Quincy striped linen-blend polo shirt from Net-a-Porter
Spring Capsule Wardrobe
04. Cowboy Boots
KHAITE Dallas Knee High Boot from Muse
GANNI Embroidered leather cowboy boots from Net-a-porter
Santiabooty boots from Christian Louboutin
PARIS TEXAS American Flame cowboy boots from Net-a-Porter
Spring Capsule Wardrobe
05. Maxi Dress
Romi Dress from Reine
St. Agni Knit-Cotton Combo Maxi Dress from Moda Operandi
Christopher Esber Twist Front Dress from Muse
Elemental Mala Slip from Paris Georgia
Spring Capsule Wardrobe
06. Transeasonal Trench
Long Gabardine Trench Coat from Burberry
By Malene Birger Alanis Trench Coat from Muse
Trench Coat from Christian Dior
Wiltern trench coat from Celine

Spring Capsule Wardrobe
01. Bomber Jacket
Embroidered Cotton Blend Bomber from Louis Vuitton
Lateltin Down Varsity Jacket from Moncler
LOEWE Hooded Bomber Jacket from Mr.Porter
Reversible nylon bomber jacket from Gucci
Spring Capsule Wardrobe
02. Shorts
Cotton Mesh Shorts from Burberry
Cargo Shorts from Moncler
Off White Oasi Lino Short Pants from Zegna
Jacquard Cotton-Blend Jersey Shorts from Louis Vuitton
Spring Capsule Wardrobe
03. White Tee
COTTON CREWNECK tee from Zegna
Cotton jersey T-shirt with embroidery from Gucci
JIL SANDER Logo-Print T-Shirt from Mr.Porter
Men’s Political Campaign T-shirt from Balenciaga

Spring Capsule Wardrobe
04. Loafers
Men’s loafer with Horsebit from Gucci
GRENSON Floyd Suede Penny Loafers from Mr.Porter
LE LOAFER penny slippers from Saint Laurent
Suede loafers from Prada
Spring Capsule Wardrobe
05. Jeans
Wide, selvedge denim jeans from Prada
LOEWE Straight-Leg Jeans from Mr.Porter
Cotton and Linen Roccia Jeans from Zegna
Baggy denim pant from Gucci
Spring Capsule Wardrobe
06. Sunglasses
Première de Cartier sunglasses from Cartier
Rectangular frame sunglasses from Gucci
BERNIE sunglasses from Mykita
LV Sleek Square Large Sunglasses from Louis Vuitton

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Daily Bread's Spiced roast beef with chimichurri

Denizen’s definitive guide to the best sandwiches in town

While one of the most humble and homely eats around, there’s no denying there’s an art to the perfect sandwich. From the bread-to-filling ratio, to condiments and accoutrements, there’s plenty to consider when it comes to crafting a tasty sammie. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you and narrowed down the best places in Auckland to find an excellent sando, and which signature creations are worth sinking your teeth into. 

Gloria’s Fresh Focaccia Deli Meats Sandwich

Gloria’s

It would be remiss not to make mention of Gloria’s, the Commercial Bay-based deli that hasn’t stopped humming since opening. Of course, we should expect such popularity from the team, also behind Bar Celeste. Gloria’s however, is a more pared-back offering that keeps homely, delicious foods at its core — and its crown jewel is a delightful daily rotation of fresh, seasonal sandwiches. The deli meats sandwich here is unparalleled if you can get your hands on one.

Little French Cafe

This neighbourhood gem, with outposts in both Point Chevalier and Mount Albert, is best known for its crispy baguettes and buttery rolls that are packed to the brim with tasty fillings. Little French Cafe favourites include the ​​sirloin steak baguette, which includes perfectly cooked sirloin steak from Grey Lynn Butchers, caramelised onions, rocket and a house-made black pepper sauce nestled in the generous roll. Other variations include the ultimate breakfast bap with free-range eggs, organic bacon and house-made basil aioli and the chicken baguette with delicious free-range smoked chicken and bacon with avocado and slow-roasted capsicum. 

Federal Delicatessen’s Chicken Salad Sandwich

Federal Delicatessen

No one can dispute The Fed’s ability to turn out a damn good sandwich. The SkyCity institution’s chicken salad sandwich has reached cult status — for both its consistency and its undeniable deliciousness. Composed of a magical chicken-mayo mixture, crunchy iceberg lettuce and crispy bits of chicken skin for good measure, this sandwich famously comes with gravy on the side for dipping. Available from lunch until late, this sandwich is here to satisfy cravings at all hours. 

Daily Bread

Daily Bread

Daily Bread is no slouch when it comes to sourdough, with a number of locations around town to keep fans of its loaves, pastries and pies well-fed. Fittingly, its sandwiches are in just as high demand, with fresh baguettes, hot milk bun sandwiches, sourdough toasties and ciabatta sammies all up for grabs. While offerings differ at each site, the current rotation includes ggg, pickle and chive and sam, cheese and mustard baguettes, and sourdough sammies with smoked kahawhai with pickle, chicken & mayo, spiced roast beef with chimichurri, and winter veg ratatouille.

Florets

Made using this Grey Lynn bakery’s famous, freshly-made loaves, the sandwiches and toasties at Florets are tasty and wholesome. Here, you’ll find fillings like danbo and housemade green apple relish, or pickled egg with organic greens, or even fennel salami with whipped cannellini bean, giardiniera, and parsley. These are made even better when enjoyed in Floret’s sun-filled upstairs room with a perfectly-made coffee and one (or two) of the housemade cookies.

Caffetteria Allpress

While they may look uncomplicated, one bite of the delectable sandwiches from the Allpress Caffetteria on Drake Street will quickly teach you not to judge a book by its cover. Some of the fillings change on a daily basis but the tuna, egg and mayo, along with the Reuben, are the staples we’ve come to rely on at lunchtime. The fillings in the vegetarian sandwiches change seasonally, but when you see the pumpkin with pecorino cheese and walnut, don’t think twice before ordering.

Dedwood Deli

While the Ponsonby Road outpost is humble but mighty, Dedwood Deli’s sandwiches honestly make your workday a little better. These sangas see us returning more often than we would like to admit. The chipotle chicken, with smokey chipotle tomato relish, lemon miso aioli, and salad, all wedged between two chunky slabs of sourdough, is a sandwich that shouldn’t be looked past — we’d gladly eat it every day if we could.

Left: Coffee Pen’s Poached Chicken (@eatlitfood). Right: Dedwood Deli’s Chipotle Chicken

Coffee Pen

Tucked away in the back streets of Eden Terrace, Coffee Pen’s team are masters in the art of sandwich making. The offering changes daily with popular flavours making regular appearances such as the delicious poached chicken with mashed peas and cheese, and an eggplant with red sweet peppers and halloumi option for all the vegetarians out there. 

Amano Bakery

Tucked alongside the popular all-day restaurant, Amano, is its dedicated bakery, where hungry downtown punters have long turned for utterly delicious and satiating morning juices, lunchtime snacks, afternoon sweet treats and more. But it’s the sandwich offering here that has made Amano one of our favourite lunch drop-ins. Offering a range of freshly-made rolls filled with succulent meats and vegetarian delights (whatever your tastes require), Amano Bakery’s sammies are always tasty, always fulfilling and some of the very best in town.

Pastrami & Rye’s Cuban Sandwich

Pastrami & Rye

Ellerslie deli and sandwich house Pastrami & Rye has been on our radar since it opened, serving up truly drool-worthy sandwiches since 2017. Inspired by the bustling delis of New York City, Pastrami & Rye proudly cures its own meats and churns out homemade preserves and pickles. It’s tough to pick just one sandwich from its star-studded line-up, but the Cuban, a swoon-worthy creation with pork, ham, pickles, mustard and melty cheese, is a hard one to beat.

Oji Sushi

At Oji Sushi, you’ll find a distinctly Japanese take on classic sandos, where an array of tasty fillings are nestled between two slices of soft, fluffy milk bread called shokupan. Honestly, few places do it better than Oji, where the sando offering includes Japanese egg with spring onion and aji Amarillo and katsu chicken with shredded iceberg and bulldog sauce. Conveniently found in the heart of Commercial Bay, this is the ideal spot for those seeking a workday lunch. 

Lowbrow’s O-Fush

Lowbrow

Lowbrow’s sando selection is a thing of glory — an expertly curated list rooted in nostalgic flavours from childhood (but done way, way better than you remember). A cheeky take on fast food favourites, creations like the Mac Daddy (complete with brisket patty, iceberg lettuce, melty cheese and mac sauce) have all the comfort of a classic drive-thru meal — with chef-made patties, sauces and restaurant-worthy ingredients, mind you. Our favourite, however, is the O-Fush with hot spiced tempura fish, iceberg lettuce, tartare sauce and cheese on a seedy sesame roll. Yum.

Young George

This humble hidden gem has got a solid following for its selection of sandos and top notch coffee. Tucked away in a tiny block of shops in the Mt Albert suburbs, Young George serves up some of the best sandwiches we’ve sampled, seven days a week. The chicken sando is unmissable, comprising juicy crumbed chicken slathered with tonkatsu sauce and deliciously tangy ‘special sauce’ (reminiscent of Big Mac sauce or something similar) sandwiched between the ultra-soft Japanese milk bread, and toasted for a bit of crunch. 

Left: Fort Greene’s The Fish One. Right: Young George’s Chicken Sando

Fort Greene

The folks at Fort Greene make some of the best loaves in town, so it’s no surprise they’re also responsible for some of the city’s most impressive sandwiches. Its recognisable Karangahape Road storefront (painted a pleasing shade of green) is the ideal place to settle in for a lunchtime sandwich and grab a loaf of sourdough to go. While The Fish One sandwich has become something of an icon, boasting homemade kahawai fish fingers, mushy peas and tartare sauce, our other favourites are The Reuben, with salt-beef brisket, homemade sauerkraut, Russian dressing, mustard, pickles & Swiss cheese on Fort Greene New York rye and the Kimchi Grilled Cheese, boasting a mix of four cheeses, grilled, with homemade kimchi on Fort Greene’s delicious sourdough.

Cazador Deli

Opening during lockdown adjacent to their stalwart eatery on Dominion Road, Cazador Deli — much like the eatery itself, stands out for its incredible game offering. Unsurprising, then, that the deli also knows a thing or two about the makings of an epic sandwich. The fillings in the eatery’s sammies are ever-changing, and there are also a number of epic toasties to satisfy your cravings.

Deli di Bossi

It would be remiss of us to leave out the deli in the CBD slinging Italian classics — Deli di Bossi. The eatery’s Mortadella Sandwich will have your mouth watering, made with mortadella italiana and mozzarella in freshly baked bread, toasted to crispy perfection, but there are countless authentic iterations that have coming through the doors time and time again. The Pastrami — a simple but stunning mix of pastrami, pickles, provolone, and mustard is a perfect rendition of the classic, while, for the vegetarians amongst us, Deli di Bossi’s Fungo — with mushroom and mozzarella, is a flavourful delight.

Left: Deli di Bossi’s Mortadella Sandwich. Right: Hello Beasty Katsu Sando

Hello Beasty

We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again — Hello Beasty is one of the most delicious fusion eateries in the city, consistently serving up a taste of Korean, Japanese, and Chinese-inspired cuisine with something for everyone. And, there’s one dish that we can’t go past ordering on every visit — the Katsu Sando. Here, crumbed chicken thigh is paired with shredded white cabbage, kewpie mayo, Golden curry sauce, toasted white bread, culminating in one of the best sandos in town.

Bodega

Having only opened its doors in July, Bodega has fast-become one of the city’s most-loved sandwich purveyors, slinging New York deli-inspired, made-to-order sandwiches with a decidedly American slant.  As far as flavours go, The French Dip is a favourite, with with sliced braised beef, onion jus, horseradish sauce, and provolone in a french roll, served with beef consommé for dipping. There’s also a Sausage Ragù number which is particularly appealing, pairing creamy sausage ragù with roasted red peppers, sautéed greens, rocket, and balsamic glaze. Sublime.

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Charmante stadsvilla Amsterdam, INTERIOR DESIGN by studioLIV — featuring Gessi Anello Bathroom Mixer

As Matisse welcomes global icon of Italian design, Gessi, to the fold, we share the must-have pieces that will instantly elevate your bathroom

Often overlooked, particularly when it comes to the finer details, bathrooms are arguably the room of the home that we turn to most frequently to find solace and repose. From sinking into a hot bath after a long day, to washing the day away in a striking shower, a well-designed bathroom should sit as a refined retreat within the home — reflecting the needs of its inhabitants.

Gessi Anello Bathroom Collection from Matisse

Matisse, who we have long turned to for all things bathroom design, particularly when it comes to bespoke tapware, have recently welcomed Gessi to the fold — further building on its extensive offering, offering 20% off the entire range for the month of October*. Gessi, specialists in Italian-made designs, have been synonymous with innovation and luxury for over three decades, revolutionising bathroom design with a unique ‘Haute Culture’ approach. From tapware to mixers and fixtures, Gessi is renowned for their luxurious, innovative textures and a wide variety of finishes, blending material, form, and technique to create cultural value.

Gessi Anello Bathroom Collection from Matisse

With a design philosophy which combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, Gessi’s products, from sleek faucets to sculptural bathtubs, embody artistic expression and practical elegance. Sustainability is key, with eco-friendly practices and water-saving technologies integrated into every design, making Gessi a favourite in luxury hotels and residences worldwide.

Gessi Anello Bathroom Collection from Matisse

With myriad finishes to select from, from woven stainless steel to imprinted surfaces and polished or matte options, Gessi offers the versatility to easily upgrade any bathroom without the need for a complete overhaul.

The brand’s Origini Collection draws inspiration from the pristine beauty of untouched landscapes and the rhythmic flow of water, transporting the essence of nature into the heart of modern bathroom design, while, for those seeking something precious that plays on customisation, the geometric and sinuous volumes of the Anello Collection are sure to add a elegant and feminine touch to any design-led space.

Gessi Anello Bathroom Collection from Matisse

With an innate ability to instil beauty into everyday objects, Gessi’s striking products are crafted with exclusive techniques and highly artisanal processes. From textured applications to Lacquered, Galvanic, PVD and GHRC, the maker’s materiality is distinct and incomparable.

Gessi Anello Bathroom Collection from Matisse

The Venti20 Collection captures this essence wholly, inviting rediscovery of the grace and invigorating spirit of the Roaring Twenties, drawing inspiration from the remarkable era with its unrivalled elegance and decadence.

Gessi 316 Shower Collection from Matisse

Whether you’re seeking to make a full-scale change, or a small-scale upgrade, Gessi is the obvious choice — with some of the most statement-making and high-quality fixtures and finishes on offer, merging art, technology, and sustainability in an extensive collection sure to transform even the simplest of bathroom into a luxurious retreat.

Gessi Collection
Our Editors’ Picks
Gessi Anello Basin mixer from Matisse
Gessi Anello Basin mixer from Matisse
Gessi Venti20 High basin mixer from Matisse
Gessi Anello High Basin mixer from Matisse
Gessi Venti20 basin mixer from Matisse
Gessi 316 Intreccio Bathroom mixer from Matisse
Gessi Habito Kitchen Mixer from Matisse
Gessi Anello Basin mixer from Matisse

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