Sharing knowledge: Important anti-racist media to consume

5 Jun 2020

It’s been a confronting and overwhelming several days, and for so many, it’s been an extremely painful time. Protests following the killing of George Floyd on Monday May 25 at the hands of Minneapolis police continue across America, and all around the world people are grappling with how to affect change within our societies when overt and covert discrimination towards black people and people of colour is far too prevalent.

Of course, George Floyd’s death is the tip of the iceberg – racial profiling in the US is horribly familiar every time we see yet another story on the news.

It’s important not to separate the reality of what’s happening in the States with our situation in New Zealand, as many of those within our Māori, Pasifika, Muslim and Asian communities have also experienced racism and discrimination. We saw the absolute worst outcome of this vile viewpoint in Christchurch on March 15 last year.

It can be hard to know what to do, however, it’s not the right answer to do nothing. There are so many resources out there to educate ourselves, and it’s about learning together and keeping the awareness top of mind – not just for a brief moment while it’s on our social media feeds, but with permanence, meaning and intention.

This list contains a small fraction of some of the incredible literature and media out there, but we hope it will give you some suggestions on where to start.

Books and articles to read:

Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge

Me and White Supremacy: How to recognise your privilege, combat racism and change the world by Layla F Saad

Justice in June Google Doc put together by Autumn Mala Gupta and Bryanna Wallace

White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk about Racism by Robin Diangelo

Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo

Anti-racist Allyship Starter Pack Google Doc put together by Tatum Dorrell, Matt Herndon and Jourdan Dorrell

Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates

How to be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi

This Bridge Called My Back: Writings by Radical Women of Colour edited by Cherrie Moraga and Gloria Anzaldua

The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander

73 Things White People Can Do For Racial Justice by Corinne Shutack via Medium

Your Silence Will Not Protect You by Audre Lorde

The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin

Well Read Black Girl by Glory Edim

White Negroes: When Cornrows Were In Vogue… And Other Thoughts On Cultural Appropriation by Lauren Michele Jackson

Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Remember, No One is Coming To Save Us by Roxane Gay via The New York Times

The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration by Isabel Wilkerson

Podcasts to listen to:

Bobo & Flex

Code Switch

Still Processing

After Work Drinks: We Need To Talk About Something Uncomfortable: Race

Intersectionality Matters!

1619 from The New York Times

Social media to follow and share:

Chrissy Ford: It’s not enough to just say “I’m not racist”

Greens at Vic

Rachel Cargle

Donte Colley

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Mireille Charper: 10 Steps to Non-Optical Allyship

Caroline Pritchard on Instagram: Questions I ask myself as a white person posting about racism on social media

Jen Winston: How to talk to your family about racism

Courtney Ahn: A guide to white privilege

Brandon Kyle Goodman: What to do about white guilt, shame and embarrassment

Sophia Roe: Reminders, Because Forgetting Isn’t An Option

Camille Charriere: Films to watch

TED Talks to watch:

How to overcome our biases? Walk boldly toward them with Verna Myers

An interview with the founders of Black Lives Matter with Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors and Opal Tometi

How to deconstruct racism, one headline at a time with Baratunde Thurston

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Skin Saviours: Denizen’s guide to Auckland’s best facialists

5 Jun 2020

While most of us have our day-to-day skincare routines down pat, there’s nothing quite like a restorative and relaxing facial – not to mention the results you can see from regular visits to a knowledgable therapist. Taking some time for yourself is important; close your eyes and let the outside world fall away. If you’re not a regular beauty spa attendee or are thinking about see a new specialist, look no further than our comprehensive list of the best facial experts in Auckland.

Kara from Haven in Takapuna
Haven is renowned for its focus on skin treatments and top therapist Kara is a must-see for her knowledge and expertise. If you’re a new client you’ll be booked in for a time-slot and Kara will tailor a treatment to suit your needs. One of the most popular offerings is the Baseline: A-Zyme Anti-Ageing Peel, which addresses dull, blotchy skin to refresh, refine, hydrate and plump. To book, click here.

Tracey Maree from Forme Spa in Parnell
If Tracey Maree’s tribe of loyal followers are a testament to anything, it’s that the skincare specialist’s many years of work as a facialist have given her an unparalleled knack for getting it right, each and every time. While there’s little in the field that she can’t turn her hands to, the Synergie Suprema-C facial is her current speciality. The ultimate facial treatment for those concerned with the signs of premature ageing, hyperpigmentation and photo-damage, it promises intense hydration, instant firmness and a refreshing luminosity to all skin types. To book, click here.

Kate from Skinography
Kate’s instinctive way of knowing what each of her clients need draws on her ability to apply not only topical skincare but to also work closely with the internal support system. She combines holistic methods like Chakra techniques, energy work and crystal healing to truly restore and rejuvenate, from the ‘skinside out’. To book, click here.

Nicole from Society
Society’s talented facialists offer customised treatment options and use two holistic non-invasive skincare brands – Osmosis Skincare and Dermaviduals. Nicole’s current signature facial is the Winter Warmer package. A one hour customised treatment facial with LED red light therapy, it focuses on detoxing impurities, hydrating and plumping the skin, and anti-ageing. Sans Ceuticals products are then used for a detoxing shoulder and décolletage massage, and a foot massage. Incorporating all of this into one session, Nicole looks after her clients from head to toe. To book, click here.

Laura from About Face in Ponsonby
Laura’s signature treatment serves as the ultimate pre-event quick fix. A multifaceted treatment which combines three approaches for optimum results, the bespoke ‘Power of Three’ begins with a skin peel to remove dead skin, before a spot of Omnilux Light Therapy is applied to rejuvenate and soften, topping off with an active vitamin infusion via Sonophoresis — a method in which ultrasound is used to increase the absorption into the epidermis, dermis and skin appendages. To book, click here.

Rhonda or Jo from Face Facts
Equally fantastic at what they do, both Rhonda and Jo from Face Facts in Remuera deliver a specialised variety of facial that serves as the ultimate lavish treatment. For when you’re really searching for a spot of indulgence, The La Prairie facials use caviar enriched skincare to transform even the dullest complexions to create more radiant, luminous faces with smoothed and firmed skin — all while delivering a state of pure blissful relaxation. To book, click here.

Yui from Spring Spa in Ponsonby
Yui comes highly recommended from the renowned team at Spring Spa. Specialising in clinical facials, Yui starts her process by getting a handle on the client’s current skincare routine before selecting the best path to take in order to obtain the healthy, structurally improved skin that they covet. Once the skin analysis is complete, handing over the reins to Yui to handle the task at hand is the only thing you need to worry about. To book, click here.

Michelle from Rosenthal
If it’s a no-product facial you’re after, then Michelle is your woman. Offering a treatment free of slathering and caking, she instead employs the regenerating benefits of massage seeing the face, head and neck kneaded to a state of blissful relaxation. The process is designed to release facial tension (particularly good for jaw clenchers) and promote the natural flow of energy, all while helping to stimulate the skin’s natural cell rejuvenation and repairing process. To book, click here.

Janine from East Day Spa
With over 16 years experience in facial and skin therapies, East Day Spa’s leading luxury facialist Janine Stucki sure knows a thing or two about what our faces need. And for those with a wedding on the horizon, Janine’s specialisation in wedding skin preparation is something that should be wholly taken advantage of. Her relaxation therapies and skilled techniques collide with her utter talent for solving people’s skin concerns to create a specialised facial that leaves brides radiating on their big day. To book, click here.

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This layered Mexican extravaganza is a party hosting winner

4 Jun 2020

There’s something seriously comforting about food that doesn’t pretend to be highbrow. Case in point: this dip created by Danielle Alvarez, head chef at renowned Sydney farm-to-table restaurant Fred’s. It’s basically a deconstructed taco, making use of Tex-Mex flavours at their finest. Be sure to have enough corn chips on hand – this delicious recipe feeds between 8-10 and we bet you’ll keep coming back for more.

Ingredients:
1 bar Philadelphia cream cheese (250g)
250g full fat sour cream
300g chunky store-bought tomato salsa (spicy or mild)
400g minced beef
1 tbls. olive oil
30g taco seasoning spice mix
½ head shredded iceberg lettuce
1 small white onion, peeled and diced
2 large tomatoes, diced
200g finely shredded Colby or tasty cheese
1 large bag corn chips

Method:
1. Mix together the salsa, cream cheese and sour cream and spread onto the base of a large platter.
2. Brown your minced beef in a very hot skillet with the olive oil. When cooked through, add the seasoning packet and continue to cook for another minute.
3. Check for seasoning then tip directly into the platter, spreading it evenly to the edges.
4. Layer the rest of the ingredients in the following order: iceberg lettuce; onions; tomatoes; cheese.
5. Serve with corn chips.

Options: Add pickled jalapeños or diced avocado into the layers.

https://merivale.com/meritales/match-day-recipes/

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Interior designer Katie Lockhart on Vivian Suter and FKA Twigs

4 Jun 2020

Katie Lockhart is one of New Zealand’s most renowned interior designers. For more than 12 years, Katie Lockhart Studio has garnered international acclaim for its founder’s Antipodean-meets-European sensibility, with Katie’s considered touch easily identified throughout some of our most well-known restaurants, retail spaces and homes. Here the tastemaker opens the door on some of her influences.

My personal style can be defined by: A mixture of practical and slightly eccentric vintage pieces.

The last thing I bought and loved was: A daybed for our living room by Shin Okuda of Waka Waka.

Next place I’d like to travel to: Sri Lanka.

An object I would never part with is: A quilt that my Mum made me when I was little that my daughter now has on her bed.

On my wish list is: For our studio space to be finished, its being built at the moment.

An unforgettable place I visited was: Bijoy Jain’s Copper House II, Chondi, Maharashtra, India.

The design (building, person, item) that inspires me is: I really love the work of Vivan Suter.

An indulgence I would never forgo is: Organic fruit and vegetables.

The last thing I added to my wardrobe was: My husband just gave me a BODE shirt for my birthday which I love.

If I had to limit my shopping to one neighbourhood in one city it would be: It would be in Tokyo!

In my fridge you’ll always find: Organic milk, chilled water, fruit and vegetables, Asahi.

My favourite room in my house is: My bathroom.

The beauty product I can’t live without is: Sans Activator 7 body oil.

I recently discovered: How good meditation can be.

The people I rely on for my wellbeing are: My family and time in my garden.

My favourite website is: The New York Times.

The last meal I had out that truly impressed me was: The Engine Room. We love heading for a meal, it’s in our neighbourhood and the goats cheese souffle is amazing.

The one artist whose work I would collect is: Vivian Suter.

Music I’m listening to currently: Magdalene by FKA Twigs.

If I wasn’t doing what I am, I would be: A gardener.

I have a collection of: Heirloom seeds.

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Gochu is another reason to get excited for the opening of Commercial Bay

3 Jun 2020

When David Lee and Oliver Simon opened the Korean-fusion café, Simon & Lee in Parnell back in 2017, they ignited our interest and educated our palates on the intricacies of Korean cuisine.

Turning their backs on the elevated café classics that were virally popular at the time, such as meringue-loaded French toast and brioche bun eggs Benedict, the duo unapologetically broke the brunch mould.

Serving intimidatingly red-hued spicy rice cakes, Korean fried chicken platters and hearty dumpling soups topped with shredded nori, their eatery quickly rose to fame at the top of Auckland café rankings. Continuing in the same boundary-pushing vein, on June 11, Lee and Simon are joined by Jason Kim and Nathan Lord in opening Gochu, an 80-seat Korean restaurant and bar within Commercial Bay.

Firmly committed to introducing authentic Seoul flavours to our shores, executive chef Jason Kim created Gochu’s menu to offer accurate interpretations of loved Korean delicacies. Sujebi, for example – touted as the ‘peasant dish’ by Koreans – sees hand-pulled dough, cooked in a comforting broth, which Kim has tweaked and redefined as a Korean-style gnocchi. While the LA Galbi – a dish created by the Korean immigrants of Los Angeles – includes succulent slices of beef short rib, accompanied by perilla leaves and tender leek.

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During the day, Gochu Noodle Bar will cater to the varied clientele at Commercial Bay, offering business professionals and the like, a quick, tasty bowl of Korean noodles.

Gochu is sure to prove this duo’s prowess beyond just brunch, adding more diversity and flavour to our gastronomic scene.

Commercial Bay officially opens June 11, 2020.
Visit 1 Queen Street, Auckland CBD.

www.commercialbay.co.nz/dine/gochu

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The best leather pieces you should invest in this season

3 Jun 2020

In the spirit of investing in made-to-last wardrobe staples, we can’t overlook leather as one of fashion’s most hardworking materials, with designers utilising the sturdy and versatile textile in more ways than ever before.

No longer relegated just to your favourite pair of trusty shoes or handbag, why not step out in a pair of leather culottes, a leather jacket or a suede skirt? Now that many of us are out and about in the “real world” again and aware that the temperature has noticeably dropped, there’s no better time to take a closer look at leather.

Charlotte suede skirt from Dadelszen, Christopher Esber Charlie tuck short from Muse, Trench coat from Louis Vuitton.

Colour In
While classic black will always be in style, the autumn/winter 2020 international collections showcased vivid iterations of coloured leather in various shades; from electric blue at Mugler to oxblood outerwear at Lanvin and artful patchwork suede at Marni. Be inspired to reach for one of the tinted pieces on offer locally.

Ena Pelly New York biker jacket from Superette. Ganni grain leather jacket from Workshop. Cream leather jacket from Dior.

Outer Layer
You’ll never regret adding a leather jacket to your rotation. Recent interpretations play with proportion for an oversized fit and fresh washes including cream and warm brown.

Liberation leather mini skirt from Aje. Frame Denim skinny leather trousers from Superette. Remain Birger Christensen Bellis leather midi-skirt from Net-a-Porter.

Leg It
Stepping out in a pair of leather trousers needn’t be as intimidating as it sounds. Fans of a polished style will love the pairing of a crisp white shirt worn untucked, or an oversized knit and coat for a more relaxed textural look.

Cobu leather jacket from Dadelszen. Leather shirt from Gucci. Reversible suede bomber jacket from Ermenegildo Zegna.

For The Boys
Luxurious leather and impeccable menswear are a match made in heaven; all that’s left to decide is how you want to wear it. For corporate casual that still says chairman of the board or polished weekend cool, leather is now the preference for professionals in search of an edge.

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Accessory designer and Muse buyer Rebe Burgess on podcasts and Phoebe Philo

2 Jun 2020

As the person in charge of curating the offering at one of Auckland’s top fashion destinations, Muse Boutique buyer and digital manager Rebe Burgess knows more than a thing or two about style. Having come on board with the store five years ago, Rebe also launched her eponymous accessories label around the same time, providing New Zealand’s most fashionable with elevated pieces to cherish. Always a friendly face to see at either of Muse’s two locations, Rebe shares her suitably stylish influences and inspirations.

My personal style can be defined as: Classic.

The last thing I bought and loved was: An oversized black boyfriend blazer I bought in Paris on my last buying trip – it’s what I would currently define as the perfect blazer.

An unforgettable place I visited was: Apulia, Italy.

The next place I’d like to travel to: Paris, my favourite city.

On my wish list is: These beautiful hoop earrings by Australian brand Minelareir. Soon to be available at MUSE.

An object I would never part with is: My collection of books!

The person, that inspires me is: Designer Phoebe Philo at Celine, 2008 – 2018.

The last thing I added to my wardrobe was: The Christopher Esber Deconstruction Knit in Green Multi – the most insane colour combination.

My favourite app is: Spotify.

An indulgence I would never forgo is: A massage.

If I had to limit my shopping to one neighbourhood in one city it would be: Newmarket, Auckland.

I can’t miss an episode of: Ozark.

In my fridge you’ll always find: Olives.

My favourite room in my house is: My bedroom.

The last meal out I had that truly impressed me was: It was my first meal out after NZs lockdown was lifted- the pork cotoletta (Italian schnitzel) at Rosie in Parnell, it was sooo good.

I recently discovered: The Kindle – I know I’m late to the party but it’s life-changing! I was given one a couple of months ago and I’ve been reading more than ever.

The people I rely on for my wellbeing are: My family.

My favourite website is: Sala’s online studio.

The one artist whose work I would collect is: Holly Burgess’ (photographer) beautiful prints.

The podcasts I listen to are: NRP (How I Built This), After Work Drinks, Oprah’s Super Soul Conversations.

The beauty product I can’t live without is: I have two! Sunscreen (especially PCA Skin Weightless Protection) and Doctor Rogers Restore Healing Balm – I get really dry lips.

Music I’m currently listening to: Valium by No Cigar! Kiwi guys.

If I wasn’t doing what I am, I would be: A Marine Biologist.

I have a collection of: Blazers.

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From Barre to HIIT, get a sweat on with these at-home workouts

Thanks to online workouts, the convenience of exercising at home is hard to ignore. You don’t have to hop on a plane to benefit from the expertise of many top international fitness trainers, and whether you’re after a high-intensity sweat session or core-toning Pilates class, there’s something out there for you.

Here, we present our comprehensive guide to some of our favourite local and international online fitness classes.

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Alo Yoga

Originating in Los Angeles, Alo Yoga is an all-encompassing health brand that aims to spread mindful movement and inspiring wellness by creating a community. Download its app Arlomoves which allows you to practice yoga at any time of the day, as well as enrol in yoga and meditation workshops with some of the world’s most exceptional teachers.

Visit the website here.

Barre Body

A range of instructors from the respected Australian studio will take you through classes from dance cardio to Barre So Hard. As well as online support you can be directed to specific classes to help you achieve goals, from weight loss, toning to general mental health. Founder Emma Seibold offers a five-day trial before your subscription high kicks in.

Visit the website here.

Eastwest Yoga

Get your zen on with popular Ponsonby Road studio Eastwest Yoga, which offers a mix of classic Hatha, Vinyasa and Yin yoga. Its online classes include new practices added weekly, a variety of styles, durations and teachers and sliding scale pricing – so you can pay from $5 to $35 depending on your financial situation. This gives at-home yogis unlimited access to classes, with no contract involved.

Visit the website here.

Barre3

With 128,000 social media followers, Barre3 founder Sadie Lincoln is focused on bringing barre balance to women of all sizes with classes that combine strength conditioning, movement and mindfulness. You can subscribe to access a range of workouts running from 10–60 minutes or follow Barre3’s Instagram where they occasionally post free workouts.

Visit the website here.

Barrefigure

Former New York barre class addict Marysa Theiler brought her fusion of ballet barre, yoga and pilates back home to New Zealand. The online videos run from 15 – 30 minutes and carefully outline what you will need, from balls, dumbbells to cushions and other items found around the house. Enjoy an ab-targeted session or all over body workout.

Visit the website here.

Centr

Whether you want to look like Chris Hemsworth or look at the Thor star, his Centr fitness app offers instant gratification. You can test out Hemsworth and his fitness team for a seven-day trial, and the best value 12-month subscription package is only $10.42 per month.

Experts, such as A-list trainer Luke Zocchi and Mrs Thor Elsa Pataky, will take you through classes where you can set your goals and intensity levels. And you don’t need a hammer or a cape.

Club Pilates

US fitness chain Club Pilates is known for its reformer-based classes but while it’s lockdown over there is regularly streaming free mat classes on its Facebook page – no reason why we can’t take advantage of them too!

Thanks to time zones Club Pilates’ afternoon LA workout is your mid-morning refresher. Visit the page in advance to see whether the class will be 10 minutes, 20 minutes or a bumper 45 minutes. The teachers will also flag any required equipment.

Core Collective

City Works Depot Pilates studio Core Collective is well-worth an IRL visit given its light and bright studio and expert instructors. However, if you can’t make it in the team offers Core at Home, a collection of great classes on its website.

With a ‘pay as you feel’ system, Core at Home is a good way to keep those muscles in shape between visits or see if you like the studio’s classes before making the trip.

Visit the website here.

Les Mills

The country’s biggest gym Les Mills has its internationally respected classes available online too. Visit the Les Mills On Demand tab for 800+ Les Mills workouts at your fingertips, with 15+ new workouts added every week.

Trial the range of classes for 14 days before signing up and be a part of New Zealand’s largest fitness community. If you’re already a member of a Les Mills club in New Zealand, you can now subscribe for a special price of $9.95 a month. Check the Les Mills Instagram for updates.

Sala

While boutique Ponsonby workout space Sala is now back open, its slickly-designed online studio makes working out from home nearly as much of a pleasure.

Londoner Sarah Lindsay created Sala to give Auckland the kind of workout she missed after leaving England. Its online classes, including Pilates HIIT, yoga, and meditation, offer a variety of workouts for whatever you’re feeling like.

Membership is $25 per month and each session comes with a carefully curated playlist.

Studio Box

The brainchild of Black Sticks star and celebrity trainer, Dwayne Rowsell, Studio Box in Newmarket has been offering calorie-blitzing, muscle-toning classes since opening last year.
Roswell was quick to step up to recent challenges by offering a series of at-home workouts that include HIIT and boxing via Zoom.

There’s also a Studio Box Spotify playlist to help create some atmosphere. The best things about Rowsell’s workouts and updates is that he doesn’t make it look easy. Watching the athlete sweat alongside you is the perfect motivation. Check @_studiobox for updates.

Thrive Pilates

We all managed to master Zoom for work meetings, school check-ins and late night cocktail parties, now we can turn it towards maintaining a cool core with live pilates classes from Thrive Pilates.

Instructors will be looking at you and correcting your form (although you can switch off the camera if you haven’t had an opportunity to curate the backdrop of your ‘fitness zone/hallway’). Classes are at 7am, 12pm and 6pm on weekdays and 9am on weekends. Pay and book for classes through the website and take a look at the Instagram page to see how your classmates are keeping up.

Wundabar Pilates

Take advantage of the 7-day free trial offered by WundaBar Pilates founder Amy Jordan. Based in the US, Jordan takes a more cardio-focused approach to Pilates, getting the blood pumping. “I often hear people say: ‘Oh, you teach Pilates? That’s stretching, right?’ But we do our work eccentrically,” Jordan says, “which is a fancy way of saying in length. So you will elongate your muscles as you sculpt them.” On-demand classes are typically 30 minutes, which will be long enough to feel the burn.

Yoga with Kylie

Having completed both a Bachelor of Nursing degree and training to become a Yoga Medicine Registered Therapeutic Specialist, Auckland-based yoga instructor Kylie Rook aims to make yoga accessible to everyone. She teaches a range of practices and hosts classes via a live-stream on Namastream via her website.

Membership is an affordable $20 per month, with a free 14-day trial currently available.

Florist Millie Austin from La Femme Fleur on High Fidelity and hip hop

29 May 2020

While living in Paris, Millie Austin was inspired by the unique and affordable offerings from the local florists adding extra glimmers of beauty to the City of Light. Returning to New Zealand she opened La Femme Fleur from a flower truck in Cox’s Bay six years ago, adding a dash of French flair with the name La Femme Fleur. Now she is busy arranging flowers and her family life, as the mother of five-month-old twin boys. Austin takes a rare moment to share her inspirations and dreams of a few quiet minutes to herself.

My personal style can be defined by: I wish it was Parisian chic, but right now it’s twin mum comfort. My husband’s Barkers organic cotton trackpants are comfy AF.

The last thing I bought and loved was: A real coffee post lockdown

An unforgettable place I visited was: Tibet. Known as the “roof of the world” it is the most beautiful place I’ve been and the people are just as wonderful.

An object I would never part with is: A vase my mum picked up in Morocco when she was backpacking in the seventies. She carried it all over Europe and it has been handed down to me.

On my wish list is: A weekend without the boys.

The last thing I added to my wardrobe was: A gorgeous Twenty Seven Names dress, gifted to me by my husband. Support local businesses!

The best book I’ve read in the last year is: Normal People by Sally Rooney.

My favourite app is: Instagram. It’s an amazing way to see what florists all over the world are doing.

An indulgence I would never forgo is: A nightly glass of red wine.

If I had to limit my shopping to one neighbourhood in one city it would be: Le Marais, Paris. APC, Muji and the best falafel in the world all in the same place.

I can’t miss an episode of: The new High Fidelity remake with Zoë Kravitz.

Next place I’d like to go to: Bologna – it has the best food in Italy.

In my fridge you’ll always find: Batchwell kombucha.

My favourite room in my house is: The boys’ nursery. It’s the only room in the house we’ve properly renovated and it’s super cute and full of sun.

I recently discovered: The Sopranos. Stuck at home with the newborn boys then five weeks of lockdown finally gave me the chance to invest in Tony and Carmela.

The people I rely on for my wellbeing are: My friends. After the twins arrived they created a cooking roster for us and I’m still getting meals delivered five months later. It makes such a difference to our lives.

My favourite website is: Vulture. It’s my favourite place to get TV and film recommendations.

A gadget I can’t do without is: My rose strippers, a vital protector of florists’ fingers.

The one artist whose work I would collect is (if price is not an issue): Monet. My favourite museum in Paris was the little known Musée de l’Orangerie that’s home to Monet’s water lilies. I’d go there in winter and be the only one with the paintings.

The last meal out I had that truly impressed me was: Last week my husband and I had our first night out together in five months at Lilian. The food was fantastic. Super simple yet really innovative and full of flavour.

The podcasts I listen to are: I have fond memories of listening to Dissect, which analyses the classic hip hop albums, while driving around the Scottish highlands.
Still Processing by New York Times culture writers Wesley Morris and Jenna Wortham.
Snowball by Ollie Wards was a crazy local story.
Ear Hustle is presented by a prisoner at a US prison and is a fascinating insight into the life inside correction system.

The beauty product I can’t live without is: Clinque Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream

The last music I downloaded was: The soundtrack from the remake of High Fidelity.

If I wasn’t doing what I am, I would be: Living in Akaroa and running a crepe cart.

I have a collection of: Sneakers.

www.lafemmefleur.co.nz

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A dozen Bluffies for $29.95 and more reasons you should support the local food scene

29 May 2020

There’s no need to feel like you’re missing out if you’re not going away for the long weekend. For those sticking around Auckland, there is a host of delicious dining options to suit any disposition or desires. In fact, it’s the ideal opportunity to explore all of the brilliant eateries our city has to offer, including some you might not have made it to yet. So if you’re wondering where to go, we’ve got you covered.

Luxe lunch with a view: Ostro
If you find yourself out and about in Britomart, take a seat at Ostro for impeccable food, service and surroundings. We’re delighted to report that Bluff oysters are back on the menu, and plan on taking full advantage of the fact that Ostro is offering them for $29.95 per dozen at lunchtime this weekend, washed down with a glass of bubbly, of course. We suggest you do the same.
Seafarer’s Building, 52 Tyler Street, Britomart

Shopping in the city: Sunny Town
Sauntering around Auckland’s CBD can be hungry work, so put down the shopping bags for a minute and order a satisfying (and speedy) meal from Sunny Town. The popular Lorne Street spot offers authentic Chinese cuisine using high quality ingredients and traditional techniques, with dumplings and buns handmade to order by a raft of expert chefs. We recommend the Dandan noodles, a perfect warming dish for winter days, along with the moist and flavourful pork or vegetable buns and plump prawn shao-mai dumplings.
10-14 Lorne Street, CBD

Neighbourhood gem: Romulus and Remus
Roman-influenced cafe, trattoria and bar Romulus & Remus is a must-visit in Grey Lynn for its thoughtful menu of satisfying dishes and homely fit-out. Try the moreish Melanzane chips – crumbed and deep-fried eggplant sticks served with a creamy feta and fennel whip – and the flavourful She-Wolf pizza.
551 Richmond Road, West Lynn.

Takapuna beach walk: The Grange
Weather permitting, a wander along Takapuna beach could be in order – after all, sea air does us all good. While you’re in the area, why not stop in for a bite at Smales Farm eatery The Grange? Nestle in under the soaring ceilings and choose from one of many delicious dishes on the all-day menu – from sharing plates like buttermilk fried chicken and Waitaha wagyu sliders to larger options, including 12 hour lamb shoulder and house made papardelle.
Cnr The Boulevard and Smales Farm Ave, Takapuna

Hike up Mt Eden: Whau
Take in the iconic vista from Maungawhau’s summit, then reward yourself with a delicious brunch at Whau, a popular daytime spot serving contemporary Māori cuisine. Utilising traditional Māori cooking techniques and native New Zealand ingredients, this sweet cafe offers original and ever-changing takes on brunch favourites like beetroot on kumara sourdough, mussel and pumpkin fritters with poached eggs and fry bread with poached fruit, banana cream and maple.
250 Puhi Huia Road, Mt Eden

A trip to the mall: L’Americano
Westfield Newmarket has a host of tempting dining options, and Italian eatery L’Americano is at the top of our list. Created in collaboration with renowned Australian interior showroom Coco Republic, the brainchild of Antonio Crisci (Poderi Crisci, Non-Solo Pizza) oozes authentic Italian flair. Whether it’s for the brioche bun, poached egg and pancetta breakfast sandwich, a satisfying bowl of pasta or a sweet Sicilian cannoli and espresso, L’Americano is all the excuse we need to visit the mall.
Shop S123 Level 1, 309 Broadway, Newmarket

Peruse in Ponsonby: Beau
Should you go for an afternoon wander along Ponsonby Road, may we suggest aiming to end up at one of the tables of recently-opened wine bar Beau. Owners Diva Giles and Logan Birch have created a cosy and relaxed establishment, the perfect backdrop for a great glass of low-intervention wine or a cocktail and a bite to eat.
265 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby

Magic in Mangere: Percy
Even if you can’t jump on a flight, there’s a great reason to make the drive out near Auckland Airport. Game-changing cafe Percy is an elevated eatery with an offering of contemporary brunch fare. Chef Logan Wang draws on a variety of influences to create mouth-watering dishes like mushroom French toast, pork belly breakfast bao and a host of house-baked sweet treats.
2 Te Kapua Drive, The Landing Business Park, Mangere

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