Home is where the wellness retreat is — with today’s home gyms being converted into dedicated wellness spaces bespoke to their unique occupant’s personal practices.
As we continue to dedicate more and more time to our wellbeing practices, it’s little wonder that we’re also creating spaces in our homes for wellness sanctuaries of our very own. Whether it’s a dedicated, spa-like oasis, complete with an infrared sauna and temperature-controlled ice bath for daily contrast therapy, or a chic home gym conceived with your particular preferences in mind — from a Pilates reformer to a fully-equipped Technogym to a tech-led fitness mirror, the choice, ultimately, is yours, and the possibilities are endless.
Private Practice
High Contrast
Contrast therapy has quickly risen through the echelons as the incredible benefits of hot-cold exposure become more widely known. And, as more people cotton on to the impact a daily contrast practice can have on both physical and mental health, so too has there been advanced development in sleek and efficacious saunas and ice baths for at-home use.
A far cry from the lowly garage gyms of times gone by, today’s at-home gyms are sanctuary-like spaces, making breaking a sweat all the more appealing. From Celine’s monogrammed Pilates reformer and weights sets to Technogym’s elevated and cleverly-designed benches to Nordictrack’s Vault Training System — offering a virtual, at-home personal trainer, the options are endless, turning a once purely functional corner of your home into a striking focal point.
Collaborating with some of the world’s most renowned fashion designers, from Alexander McQueen to Guo Pei, The Rug Company’s library of rug designs — available exclusively at Design Central, sees the inimitable style and distinct flair of each house brought to life.
Fashion Designer Collaboration
Alexander McQueen
Collaborating with The Rug Company since 2010, Alexander McQueen produces couture-level designs with the superior quality and craftsmanship the fashion house is revered for. Inspired by nature, the floor coverings feature striking motifs like Monarch butterflies, hummingbirds, and cranes, reflecting McQueen’s love for natural elements while making a strong visual impact.
Since 1972, Diane Von Furstenberg has enchanted the fashion world with her iconic and idiosyncratic designs. Celebrated for empowering women through distinctive prints and vibrant colours in luxurious fabrics, DVF has collaborated with The Rug Company for over two decades, creating timeless, enduring pieces inspired by her archival work. Von Furstenberg’s series of striking floor coverings, from the early noughties to today, bring the designer’s artistic essence into any home.
Greek designer Mary Katrantzou, known colloquially as ‘The Queen of Print,’ is recognised for her penchant for prints and examination of culture, history and art through her work. Katrantzou’s distinct aesthetic is reflected in equal measures on both the runway and within her collaborations with The Rug Company, the designer imbuing each artistically designed rug with her fearless and playful aesthetic.
Chinese couturier Guo Pei is famed for her intricate and elaborate designs, which are often years in the making. As the first guest member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture and a founding member of the Asian Couture Federation, Pei’s work exemplifies meticulous craftsmanship, weaving tradition and authentic luxury to craft novel and captivating designs. Her collection for The Rug Company enlivens this, offering a series of striking designs, each with its own story, that will elevate any space to new heights.
The five senses — sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch, impact how we experience the world. From our perception of space to our enjoyment of food and drink, comfort, pleasure, and, quite literally, everything in between. So it’s little wonder that we’re beginning to place such an emphasis on the sensory impact of our homes — imagining spaces with a mind to the full sensorial spectrum.
South Yarra apartment by Rob Mills Architecture and Interiors | Cassina Soriana armchairs from Matisse
Our homes, the sanctuaries to which we retreat when the day is done, are not only a reflection of our uniqueness, but the spaces within which we relax, entertain, play, and seek solace. Climbing into a freshly made bed on a Sunday evening, crisp sheets and the comforting scent of clean washing enveloping you, instantly calms the mind and soothes the soul. While watching dappled light filter through a sheer curtain as you sit sipping a hot cup of tea, plush blanket providing warmth, and a veritable nest of enveloping sofa holding you just so, has a similar effect — akin to a warm hug. We are, by nature, driven by our senses, and clever as we are, have the capacity to transform our homes into sensorial sanctuaries — making our day-to-day that little bit more pleasurable.
Dubai home by The Stella Collective
Sensory decoration is a creative concept which seeks to stimulate the senses via cleverly considered design — from architecture to interiors, right down to furniture placement, proximity to art, and considered decor.
Cammeraygal home by Studio Prineas
When designing a home, one of the most simple (and impactful) ways to influence its visual appeal is through the harnessing of natural light. Be it inviting light in from above via a striking skylight, or cleverly conceiving a stair to allow light to filter into the home creating both bright, light zones, and strikingly shadowed spaces, utilising natural light is a sure-fire way to spark joy. On the flip side, joy can also be found in cavernous retreats, where natural light is minimal, and cosy, plush furnishings, finishings, and textures come together harmoniously to offer a peaceful place for rest and repose. Here, deep colours, rich textures that draw the eye, and plush, textural furnishings combine to calming effect — with clever layering adding to the tranquil ambience. Not only reserved for bedrooms or cosy lounges, bathrooms can just as easily become quiet, relaxing spaces, and perfect zones within which to find sensory stimuli. From the visual appeal of thoughtful design to the soothing sound of a running shower to the heavenly scent of a warm, fragranced bath — bathrooms are a more than perfect spot to find peace.
Sydney apartment by Brooke Aitken Design
“We are, by nature, driven by our senses, and clever as we are, have the capacity to transform our homes into sensorial sanctuaries.”
Northcote House by LLDS
And, it’s said that we eat with our eyes, so transforming your kitchen into a feast for the senses is an obvious option, employing the calm-inducing properties of smooth hardwood, marble, brushed steel, and polished concrete underfoot, or the tactile allure of textured renders, leather seating, and hand-crafted finishes which, when combined with the sound of a sizzling eye fillet and the smell of freshly-baked bread, is a masterclass in sensorial satiation.
Toronto home by Collab Design Studio | B&B Italia Camaleonda sofa from Matisse
But, perhaps the most obvious — and simple, way to ignite the senses and make an impact in the home, is with the clever use of lighting. Be it bathing a space in an enchanting glow with a warmly-hued (and visually striking) lamp, or dialling things up a notch with the inclusion of a glittering disco ball to set a convivial atmosphere, unique lighting is a simple yet impactful way to shift the tone of a space — igniting the senses in the process.
QT Auckland’s much-loved signature restaurant, Esther, is turning up the heat this summer, unveiling a stunning new al fresco dining space — Esther Courtyard, just in time for the long, languid days ahead.
Set to be Auckland’s new go-to spot for after-work drinks casual bites, and basking in the afternoon sun, the convivial spot is located on the harbour side of Esther, with room to comfortably seat up to 50 across a mix of large high-top tables, café-style seating, and long, plush bench seats. The stylish space, reminiscent of a Spanish seaside retreat, features QT’s signature black-and-white striped umbrellas, neutral tones, woven textures, and vibrant pops of ocean blue tiles.
The menu takes inspiration from Esther’s Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, but with a more relaxed approach to dining — where wood-fired pizzettas are the main event, served alongside a selection of tapas-style share plates. On the drinks front, revellers will find a curation of cocktails, European wines, and Italian aperitifs, designed to evoke the charm and essence of seaside sipping in Europe.
Officially opening for service this Saturday (October 12th), Esther Courtyard is perfectly primed to be one of the city’s top spots for casual summer dining.
Jessica McCormack muse Zoë Kravitz wears the Diamond Gypset Earrings in 0.4ct & 0.9ct, Ball n Chain Old Mine Cut Diamond Pendant, Carmela Spaghetti Gold Band and Yellow Gold Band
With distinctive designs that are ultra-wearable and endlessly versatile, Jessica McCormack’s jewellery is made to be adored by this generation and the next. Her “Day Diamonds” are designed to be layered alongside existing pieces, with a signature blend of timelessness and modernity that is coveted by smart, stylish women the world over. With a client list that includes the likes of Margot Robbie, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Victoria Beckham, and current muse Zoë Kravitz, the New Zealand-born, London-based fine jewellery designer’s diamonds are coveted the world-round, thanks, in large part, to her ability to imbue timeless pieces with a contemporary spirit that is effortlessly chic.
Jessica McCormack muse Zoë Kravitz wears the Emerald Cut Diamond East-West Torque Necklace from Simon James
While signature McCormack pieces like the Gypset earrings are ‘the’ earrings to be worn everywhere, every day (and night), those wishing to see McCormack’s striking new designs in all shapes and sizes will find their opportunity next week at Simon James. A collection of one-of-a-kind gemstones in emerald and sapphire and show-stopping diamond pieces — many of which have not been seen before in New Zealand, will be available at Simon James — the brand’s exclusive New Zealand stockist, launching on October 17th in their stores and online.
Jessica McCormack muse Zoë Kravitz wears the Crescent Moon Diamond & Pearl Gypset Hoop Earrings from Simon James
Jessica McCormack Ball n Chain Old Mine Cut Diamond Pendant from Simon James
Jessica McCormack Carmela Spaghetti Gold Band from Simon James
Jessica McCormack Oval Diamond Torque Necklace from Simon James
Jessica McCormack Diamond Gypset Earrings from Simon James
Preview the collection here or at Simon James Herne Bay – October 18th & 19th: 230 Jervois Rd, Herne Bay
For enquiries or private appointments please email [email protected].
From America’s Cup Title Partner Louis Vuitton’s dynamic collection that captures the regatta’s energy to a chic denim duffle from Bottega Veneta to a trusty, hardy nylon holdall from Prada, these are the boat day bags we’re currently coveting.
As we gear up to witness our celebrated Emirates Team New Zealand defend the Auld Mug in sunny Barcelona, we’re brushing up on our Cup knowledge and making plans to enjoy the high-octane races from near and far.
If you’re in Spain to watch the action unfold in real time, consult our definitive guide to Barcelona, or you’re planning to head to Viaduct Harbour to celebrate at the Cup’s official home, we have all you need to know. You’ll also find a comprehensive overview of the rules, teams, a history of the boats through the ages, and info on all of the skippers.
So brace yourself for Cup fever, as Emirates Team New Zealand battles it out for the 37th America’s Cup in a bid to secure a hat trick.
The 37th America’s Cup
Dates to Note
Puig Women’s America’s Cup 5th — 13th October
Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup 12th — 27th October
Who’s at the helm of the six teams competing in the 37th America’s Cup?
Pete Burling
Emirates Team New Zealand New Zealand
Our very own homegrown hero, Peter Burling is one of New Zealand’s — and in fact, the world’s — greatest sailors. A triple Olympic medallist in the 49er class, and a double America’s Cup winner, Pete Burling is gearing up to once again lead Emirates Team New Zealand to victory.
Sir Ben Ainslie
Ineos Britannia Great Britain
The most successful Olympic sailor of all time, Sir Ben Ainslie was charged with turning Oracle Team USA’s seven-race deficit around. Last Cup, he stepped into a new role at the helm of his homeland’s team, a position he remains in for the 2024 racing, vying with all his might to bring the Cup to England.
Ernesto Bertarelli
Alinghi Red Bull Racing Switzerland
Bertarelli created Alinghi to achieve his dream of bringing the America’s Cup back to Europe for the first time since 1851. His team memorably won the America’s Cup in 2003 in Auckland, and successfully defended it in 2007 in Valencia. Now, with a new team, the Swiss sailor is back in the Cup with his sights set on winning.
Max Sirena
Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team Italy
Sirena is at his eighth America’s Cup challenge, two of which were winning campaigns, including the 33rd America’s Cup with BMW Oracle Racing, and the 35th America’s Cup in Bermuda in 2017 with Emirates Team New Zealand. Now, an ever-ambitious Sirena is at the helm of Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team for the second consecutive Cup racing.
Terry Hutchinson
NYYC American Magic America
Across his 40-year career, Hutchinson has done it all, including guiding Emirates Team New Zealand in the 32nd Cup. Now, after a few bumps in the road (including thatspectacular crash in the 36th Cup), the stalwart sailor is back at the helm of the American team, resolute in achieving a lifelong goal of securing the Auld Mug.
Quentin Delapierre
Orient Express Racing Team France
A rising star on the international sailing scene, Frenchman Quentin Delapierre will lead the Orient Express Racing Team in the 37th America’s Cup, bringing vast experience at both an Olympic and international level, with skills forged more recently in the intense heat of the SailGP racing circuit.
The 37th America’s Cup
Rules of Engagement
While the universal Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS) are applied to the technical aspects of the America’s Cup match, a defining aspect of the competition is that everything about it is more or less decided by the defender (the team currently in possession of the cup). This is due to the ‘Deed of Gift’ terms which make the Cup available for perpetual international competition. With the power to dictate where, when and on what boats the racing will occur, it can take some time after the competition’s end for the next location and set of protocols to be decided. However, if another yacht club presents a challenge for the Cup — at any time — it must be met by the defenders, hence the relatively unstructured nature of the competition.
The Protocol and Class Rule is determined by the Defender, in this case, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron and Emirates Team New Zealand, and the Challenger of Record, this case the Royal Yacht Squadron Ltd and their representative team INEOS Britannia, with the 37th America’s Cup’s Protocol and Class Rule balancing the traditions of the Deed of Gift while continuing to push the boundaries of innovation, technology and design in the boats, the event, the broadcast and the commercial aspects of the Cup.
As such, for the 37th America’s Cup, an emphasis has been placed on driving sustainability through innovation, spotlighting inclusivity through the addition of women’s and youth races, and reducing team operating costs without compromising any of the technical development which the Cup is so famous for.
Updated Rules
01.
Women’s and youth events have been added to the America’s Cup schedule.
02.
Teams are only permitted to build one new AC75.
03.
There are limitations on the quantity of foils and componentry that can be built for the AC75s.
04.
This year sees the introduction of the multi-purpose One Design AC40 class, which teams have been able to convert and use for testing, component development and Match Race training.
05.
The AC40 class is to then be converted back to the measured One Design AC40 class for use in the women’s and youth events.
06.
The number of race crew onboard the AC75 has been reduced from 11 to eight sailors.
07.
As part of the ongoing drive for innovation and clean technology, it’s now a mandate to create two hydrogen-powered foiling chase boats. It’s hoped showcasing proven hydrogen tech in the marine sector will help create a game-changing pathway for the wider industry and lead to a significant reduction in its carbon footprint.
08.
A shared team recon programme has been implemented which, whilst reducing costs, is also aimed to give America’s Cup fans the inside track on the testing and development on the water by all the teams.
09.
A condition of entry is that all teams must partake in a behind-the-scenes documentary series, bringing the secrecy, drama and all the teams’ personalities into the limelight.
10.
The AC75 class of boat will be maintained for the next two events.
The 37th America’s Cup
Boats Through the Ages
From the gigantic trimarans of the 2010 Cup to the radically different, 72-foot, wing-sailed foiling catamarans of 2013, to 2024’s 75-foot foiling monohull masterpiece, the evolution of the America’s Cup boat has been anything but smooth sailing.
Fly Time The amount of time the boat spends foiling. The ideal situation would be for a team to make it around the entire course with 100% fly time, which means their hull never touches the water.
Wingwash When sailboats sail close to each other, one can affect the other’s quality of wind. The resulting lack of wind is referred to as a “wingwash.”
Stuffing It or Splash Down When the boat drops off the foils and the hulls hit the water, usually in a very dramatic fashion that soaks the sailors.
Karangahape Road go-to Fort Greene has long been high-ranking when it comes to Auckland’s best sourdough. The sandwiches — with their made-from-scratch ingredients, consistently draw crowds, and the artisanal pastries that come out of the kitchen here are always great. But, owners Liam Fox and Andrea Muhlhausen are perfectionists, and in seeking to level up their pastries and breads to new heights, the pair have added a dedicated, specialist pastry room to their beloved eatery.
Humidity, Fox tells me, is the piece of the puzzle that most impacts the end result when it comes to baking, and in creating a consistently humidity and heat-controlled room, he can ensure perfection every single time. The care these two put into what they do is incredible — their passion instantly evident to anyone who walks through the doors, and it felt essential to them both to continue their evolution. “I’m a perfectionist by nature,” Fox tells me, “But the trick is to find the balance between perfectionism and accepting the things beyond your control. With the new pastry room, we are able to control many more variables that were previously beyond us. Also keeping our processes in full view adds to our philosophy of transparency and authenticity.”
To showcase the incredible quality of the pastries that have found a place on the menu (which changes monthly), Fort Greene has launched a monthly specials pastry box. This first iteration includes a decadent, tart lemon meringue cube croissant, a Biscoff speculoos cruffin that is altogether light and rich, a wildly delicious black forest croissant brimming with chocolate mousse, crumbed biscuit, and tart cherries — reminiscent of Whittaker’s famous black forest block, and a tasty ham and Swiss cheese number. Available to pre-order any day of the week, the mixed box is perfect for feeding the troops, or if you’re about on the weekend, grab an individual treat in-store on Saturdays and Sundays.
With this new pastry room, Liam and Andrea plan to continue to build on their already exceptional offering — with a host of ideas in the works, and an array of new flavours set to join the fold via the monthly specials box, making regular visits all the more appealing.
They’ve gone and done it again! Emirates Team New Zealand have secured the Auld Mug in one of the most successful America’s Cup campaigns in history. As they look to the future, and the unprecedented opportunity this historic win presents, we explore Viaduct Harbour’s history with the Auld Mug.
Since 2000, Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour has been the (un)official home of the America’s Cup, with a host of convivial restaurants and bars, world-class hotels, and its prime position making it the perfect port of call for celebrations. And, whether racing is taking place near or far, the precinct never fails to pull out all the stops, giving Cup fever-stricken Kiwis a front row seat to the unfolding action.
As the new millennium dawned, so too did a new era for Auckland’s hospitality scene, as Viaduct Harbour began its transformation into the vibrant culinary and cultural precinct it stands as today. The catalyst? The 30th America’s Cup.
The 1995 Cup, held in San Diego, is forever etched in the minds of all Kiwis, as New Zealand’s Black Magic (skippered by the late, great Sir Peter Blake) swept all five races to lift the cup from the US for only the second time in 144 years. Unsurprisingly, five years later when the event was to be held in Auckland, the city pulled out all the stops — with Viaduct Harbour primed to play host to those looking to get in on the action, given its front row seat to the Waitematā. The precinct was transformed from an industrial fishing port into the premier America’s Cup hub for the March event, and, following New Zealand’s victory and the incredible celebrations that ensued, Viaduct Harbour solidified its standing as the home of the America’s Cup — a mantle it has upheld to this day.
Viaduct Harbour during the America’s Cup in 2003
During the 2000 event (and 2003, which we also played host to), downtown Auckland went through a period of rapid growth, with the development of the Viaduct Harbour into a large-scale entertainment and residential precinct a catalyst for the city’s forward momentum. Sir Peter Blake’s vision for the 30th America’s Cup was to create a venue where the syndicate bases were integrated into a vibrant waterfront neighbourhood, and as such, the Cup facilities were designed to be integrated into a new mixed-use urban extension, resulting in the establishment of Auckland’s first waterfront entertainment precinct in Viaduct Harbour. Team bases lined the western end, which gave the public unprecedented views of the bases and team activity, and across both 2000 and 2003 the restaurants and bars in the area were lively hives of activity, overflowing with people every night of the week during the regattas.
Unfortunately, Team New Zealand didn’t take out the 2003 Cup, and racing went offshore, but Viaduct Harbour’s commitment to the Cup never dwindled. Hosting events throughout the 2007 event, including an uproarious celebration following the newly rebranded Emirates Team New Zealand’s whitewash win, enjoyment of the Cup felt just as thrilling as if it were taking place on the waters just beyond. The 2010, 2013, and 2017 events were similarly convivial affairs, as Viaduct Harbour continued to introduce exceptional venues that only added to the lively locale’s allure throughout the Cups.
Viaduct Harbour’s Upper Deck pop-up during the 2021 America’s Cup
Fast-forward to 2021, with racing back on home soil, despite the limitations caused by Covid the event was an exceptional one indeed, as Aucklanders once again became swept up in celebrations, making for Viaduct Harbour to dine, sip champagne, and watch on as our team once again did us proud at home. In fact, the 2021 challenge saw a further expansion of Viaduct Harbour’s America’s Cup Village, where the ‘Upper Deck’ pop-up at Market Square provided a great spot to catch all of the racing action, with a big screen, and plenty of shaded seating to enjoy the racing.
Now, as we gear up to watch Emirates Team New Zealand attempt a hat trick, this time in Barcelona, Viaduct Harbour is once again planning it’s festivities, with a number of lively venues on-hand to welcome Kiwis seeking to celebrate our team on the water, at the most obvious of locations, the jewel in the crown of Auckland’s waterfront entertainment scene.
From the first swim at a hard-to-find beach to an incredible meal at that tiny, neighbourhood restaurant to the hours of relaxation with nowhere to be and not a care in the world — a European holiday is unmatched. And while there are boundless possibilities for exceptional experiences, few would argue that the pinnacle of the bucket list is a luxury superyacht charter. And there’s no better time to book than now.
MiMi
Offering unmatched access to some of the most beautiful and remote parts of the world, a yacht gives those aboard a new and completely different perspective. And, taking the bespoke and comprehensive service to the next level is 37South Yachts, New Zealand’s first full-service superyacht agency.
With a wealth of industry knowledge, 37South’s dedicated team are on hand to craft and develop bespoke experiences that cater to the most discerning of charter parties — no adventure is out of the question, and as a member of The Worldwide Yacht Brokers Association, 37South has unparalleled access to every charter yacht in the world.
MiMi.
After an in-depth consultation that involves getting to know what will make the perfect trip for you and your guests, 37South selects a yacht to suit and builds a tailored journey, liaising with its partners in the locations to organise activities, plus with the captain, chief steward and chef of the vessel to organise the logistics. It also has team members on the ground internationally — in Europe, in particular. All that’s left to you to do is decide what you’d like to pack in your suitcase — anything is possible.
And while you’re experiencing these possibilities, you can be sure whichever vessel takes you there boasts unparalleled luxury accommodation, world-class service, the highest quality cuisine and sumptuous amenities. Feature-wise, each superyacht has its own charms. It might be a jacuzzi with panoramic views and an outdoor cinema, or perhaps a private gym and massage room; an expansive dining room for dinner parties at sea, a stunning sun deck for lounging — and in many cases, it’s some combination of all of the above.
MiMi.
37South offers access to some of the most spectacular European locations — from the Amalfi Coast to Sicily, to the Greek and Balearic Islands. We’re certainly dreaming of floating on the sparkling waters of Cote d’Azur, Corsica and Sardinia.
If you are after a truly one-of-a-kind itinerary to indulge in an experience like no other, we suggest touching base with 37South’s charter brokerage team. From providing travel inspiration to investigating availability and specific charter enquiries, they are on hand to help take the ocean-faring holiday of your dreams to a sparkling reality.
For more exclusive access to what the city has to offer, engaging content, excellent imagery and thought provoking commentary on the life that surrounds you, subscribe to Denizen magazine now.
