For Gucci Pre-Fall 2026, Demna presents Generation Gucci, a collection he describes as “a lookbook shot… of an imaginary Gucci show that never happened.” The idea sets the tone for a body of work that feels cinematic, self-aware and deeply connected to the House’s visual memory. “It combines different generations of product and imagery into one aesthetic narrative,” he explains, positioning the collection as both a reflection and a preview of the vision he will fully unveil in February.
The opening looks set the mood with lightweight tailoring in archival silk faille, woven to “simulate an aged handfeel.” These pieces carry a sense of quiet heritage. Buttons disappear in favour of minimal clasps, creating a fluid new take on the two-piece suit and Gucci’s definitive pencil skirt.
Outerwear arrives with unexpected softness. Textured coats, crafted from strips of shearling, silk, goat hair and feathers, have the airy ease of a peignoir. Eveningwear leans into sensuality with underwear-inspired garments paired with silk blousons, draped miniskirts, and liquid gowns in jersey and chiffon that glide rather than cling.
Demna’s ongoing study of Gucci’s visual codes is evident in the reimagined 1970s and 1990s signatures. Racer jackets carry a sharp Web stripe. Full leather and suede details evoke the brand’s hedonistic edge, and equestrian-print silks are worn with cool confidence from head to toe.
The accessories offer a glimpse into Demna’s forthcoming direction. The Lunetta Phone+ bag combines monogrammed canvas with chainmail for a practical yet sharp everyday piece. The Jackie 1961 appears in a compact rectilinear silhouette or enlarged and softened in calfskin and croc.
With Generation Gucci, Demna doesn’t simply reference the past. He reorganises it, reshapes it and filters it through a contemporary lens. The result feels like a prelude: a quiet but confident signal of what his Gucci will look like when he unveils his full vision in February.
The sun is out in full force this week, which means that sun protection is at the top of the agenda. Instead of coating yourself in a substance that resembles PVA glue or slathering your skin in a greasy, sticky formula — add one of these mighty formulations to your arsenal. Trust us, you will never look back.
Here, we round up the best protectants for your face, body, and hair this season.
shop face
Sunceutical SPF 50 Mineral Face Crème from Emma Lewisham
Anthelios UVmune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ Sunscreen from La Roche Posay
Pro-Collagen Skin Protection Fluid SPF50+ from Elemis
Guided by haka expert Michael Steedman, Föenander Galleries presents a unique cultural culmination this December, opening on Friday 5th December. Aptly named Haka, this collaborative exhibition examines the role of our national expression through diverse sculptural practice. The traditional Māori war dance — instantly recognisable but often misunderstood — first reached international audiences in 1888, when the New Zealand Native Rugby Team performed ‘Ka Mate’ on tour in Britain. Despite mixed reactions, the haka became an enduring symbol of New Zealand’s cultural and sporting pride, a sacred dichotomy that has been closely examined ever since.
Chris Bailey, Kaitiaki, Cast Burnished Bronze, 1106 x 400 x 430mm
Föenander Galleries’ Haka exhibition will feature works by Chris Bailey, Israel Tangaroa Birch, Anton Forde, Robert Jahnke, Shiree Reihana and Dorothy Waetford. Each acclaimed New Zealand artist explores the haka from their perspective, drawing on ancestral tradition, the natural world, and the preservation of Māori history. This collaborative effort marks a poignant moment in our culture and opens an essential dialogue that should not be overlooked.
Israel Tangaroa Birch, Kōwhaiwhai, The Spirit of Survival, Pigments & Lacquer on Etched Stainless Steel Panel, 2395 x 1000 x 45mm
Endeavouring to answer the question ‘what is haka?’, each piece is anchored in the war dance, from the physical representation in Chris Bailey’s Kaitiaki sculpture, to Robert Jahnke’s A Matter of Principle ii, which uses iconography, light and reflection to explore Eurocentric educational narratives in New Zealand’s history. One only needs to look at the response to Hana-Rāwhiti Maipi-Clarke’s haka as protest in parliament late last year to see that the haka remains greatly misunderstood. Through this exhibition, each piece aims to investigate this performance that holds such a key facet of New Zealand culture and the way it intermingles with Aotearoa in the present day.
Robert Jahnke, A Matter of Principle, Wood, Paint, Neon, One Way Glass, Mirror, 850 x 850 x 180mm
Anton Forde, Ngā Hau e Whā II, Tūāriki, 2025, Blue/Black Pounamu with carved andesite base, H1280mm w200mm D200m
It’s a fitting closure to a year where the Waitangi Treaty Principles Bill dominated much of the political discourse, redefining how we interact with Māori culture as a country. Through analysing this dance that is so key to Aotearoa — both through its time on the world stage at All Blacks games and through its inherent connection to the identity of Māori — these pieces of art attempt to explore the depth of the haka; past, present and future.
Exhibition dates: Friday 5th December — Wednesday 24th December
The perfect gift is something you wouldn’t necessarily buy for yourself but find yourself wanting anyway. A small luxury. Something that’s beautiful and a little frivolous but ultimately practical. The perfect gift, quite often, is a coffee table book.
These beautiful tomes are informative and decorative, both entertainment and an item you’ll cherish for years to come. They’re read by you and your guests, but they also look just as good sitting pretty on a side table or taking centre stage on a bookcase.
From books rhapsodising about the art of the modern treehouse for the budding architect in your life, to an artful homage to the America’s Cup, and even kids’ books the little ones will want to keep on display, these are the ultimate coffee table books to buy this Christmas.
Defined by Marc Newson’s visionary design, the America’s Cup Art Edition is an exquisite homage to sailing’s most prestigious event. Seamlessly merging art and innovation, its sculptural form captures the Cup’s dynamic spirit, while refined craftsmanship elevates it to collectible status. A celebration of heritage and modernity, this limited edition embodies the creative daring that continues to propel both design and competitive sailing forward.
This tantalising tome is an exploration of the creative dialogue between fashion and contemporary art. Showcasing reinterpretations of the iconic Lady Dior bag, Dior Lady Art highlights how 99 visionary artists have transformed the emblematic accessory into sculptural expressions of culture, identity, and imagination. A testament to Dior’s enduring allure and the boundless possibilities of artistic collaboration.
A sumptuous tribute to one of history’s most iconic sports cars. Celebrating Italian craftsmanship and visionary engineering, this collectible edition traces the Stradale’s daring design and racing pedigree, revealing how it redefined automotive beauty. Rich imagery and thoughtful storytelling capture a legacy where ambition met artistry, embodying Alfa Romeo’s fearless pursuit of elegance, performance, and innovation.
An evocative visual memoir, chronicling the Weber’s intimate journey through art, youth, and desire. With Weber’s signature warmth and cinematic eye, the book captures fleeting moments of beauty and self-discovery, blurring the boundaries between fashion, portraiture, and storytelling. It’s a tactile celebration of curiosity and sensuality, and a testament to the transformative power of image-making and artistic exploration.
A powerful compendium celebrating female visionaries, pioneers, and creatives reshaping culture today. Spanning art, design, science, and activism, the book captures a vibrant tapestry of influence and achievement. Through compelling imagery and thoughtful essays, it honours women whose ideas and actions continue to redefine possibility in an inspiring testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of female leadership worldwide.
A refined homage to fashion’s most legendary accessories. Celebrating timeless craftsmanship and cultural impact, it traces the stories behind coveted designs that have defined eras and inspired generations. With rich photography and thoughtful commentary, the volume explores how these enduring creations transcend trends, becoming symbols of style, heritage, and artistry.
A striking exploration of architecture in harmony with nature. Showcasing Takada’s signature approach, the book highlights designs that blur the boundaries between interior, exterior, and landscape. Through lush imagery and thoughtful narrative, it celebrates organic forms, natural materials, and light-filled spaces, revealing how architecture can feel alive, immersive, and intrinsically connected to the environment it inhabits.
Suspended between earth and sky, Modern Tree Houses showcases visionary retreats that merge design ingenuity with nature’s tranquillity. Featuring visionary architects and spectacular settings, it redefines the classic tree house as sustainable, sculptural living. With striking photography and insightful commentary, this collectable tome celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and nature’s ephemeral beauty.
Acclaimed chef Jeremy Fox reimagines carnivorous cooking, in his new book On Meat, with over 160 recipes that champion creativity, sustainability, and zero-waste principles. From deli favourites to hearty mains, this ambitious follow-up to On Vegetables offers inspiration and expertise for every meat-loving home cook.
A celebration of citrus in all its glory, Squeeze Me pairs fifty lemon-forward recipes from River Café’s Ruthie Rogers with striking artworks by Ed Ruscha. Together, they transform the humble lemon into a culinary and artistic icon.
London’s cult pasta restaurant brings its magic home in Padella. With classics like Pici Cacio e Pepe and fresh new creations, this debut cookbook reveals the secrets, techniques, and soulful recipes that make pasta unforgettably simple, seasonal, and utterly delicious.
Building on the success of her acclaimed debut Bitter, Alexina Anatole returns with Sweet — a joyful exploration of 80 recipes celebrating the many shades of sweetness. From cosy bakes to dazzling desserts, it’s a delicious ode to flavour, comfort, and creativity.
Championing the art of pantry cooking, Alison Roman’s Something from Nothing features over 100 unfussy, flavour-forward recipes. From crisp bean bakes to saucy pastas, it proves that with a few jars and cans, dinnertime magic is always within reach.
Effortless cooking meets global inspiration in One Pot by Phaidon, a collection of inventive recipes designed for maximum flavour with minimal fuss. Highlighting diverse cuisines and clever techniques, it turns simple ingredients into vibrant, satisfying meals, all from a single vessel. Beautifully photographed and thoughtfully curated, this book redefines convenience as both elegant and deeply delicious.
Whimsical and full of charm, Cake is a delightful children’s book celebrating baking’s universal joy. Playful illustrations introduce cakes worldwide, connecting cultures through sweetness and creativity. Perfect for inspiring curiosity and kitchen fun, this cheerful volume shows how cake sparks wonder and togetherness.
A charming holiday treasure for young readers, this advent calendar-style collection features 24 mini biographies of inspiring figures, transforming the countdown to Christmas into a journey of discovery and empowerment. Beautifully designed and brimming with curiosity, this festive book sparks imagination and celebrates big dreams.
Step into a gallery where geometry sparks imagination. Sven Völker’s The Museum of Shapes transforms circles, squares, and triangles into vibrant characters, introducing young readers to the beauty of design, balance, and creativity in a way that feels both fun and profound.
Journey through the animal kingdom with this charming book — a vibrant exploration designed to delight and educate young readers. Each letter unveils a captivating creature, pairing playful illustrations with engaging facts, inviting children to discover the alphabet while exploring the world’s diverse wildlife.
A tender, beautifully illustrated story about friendship, resilience, and self-acceptance. Following Shibu, a cat with an unusually long tail, the book explores themes of difference and belonging with gentle humour and warmth. Its lyrical prose and expressive artwork create a heartfelt reading experience that encourages children to embrace individuality and find strength in what makes them unique.
Beloved children’s author Michael Rosen and illustrator Helen Oxenbury join forces for a playful story about mistakes, surprises, and finding joy in the unexpected. Brimming with wit and warmth, it captures the joy of childhood mishaps in all their messy, marvellous glory.
Step into a whimsical world with this imaginative tale brimming with wit and wonder. Blending playful narrative and striking illustrations, it follows an offbeat adventure where curiosity and creativity reshape the ordinary, inviting readers of all ages to see the world through magic, humour, and boundless possibility.
Knowledge of precious stones and the pursuit of excellence have been at the heart of Van Cleef & Arpels’ history and identity since its founding in 1906. Over more than a century, the Maison has demonstrated an unrivalled affinity for diamonds, combining technical precision with poetic imagination. Each creation begins with the careful selection of gemstones for their purity and brilliance, before being transformed by master craftspeople into works that embody harmony, light, and movement.
The Maison’s Classic High Jewellery reflects this legacy through six enduring collections: Flowerlace, Snowflake, Folie des Prés, Palmyre, À Cheval and Olympia, each a testament to its expert savoir-faire and pursuit of beauty. Together, they express inspirations that have long guided Van Cleef & Arpels: the delicacy of nature, the elegance of couture, and the refinement of the decorative arts. Every jewel, from the airy filigree of Flowerlace to the fluid brilliance of Palmyre, reveals the balance of structure and softness that defines the Maison’s style.
Among these, the À Cheval Classic High Jewellery collection is a particularly striking example of the Art Deco period’s influence. This era continues to inspire the Maison’s sense of geometry and proportion. Launched in 1981, the À Cheval collection captures the purity of diamond brilliance through an intricate setting technique in which gemstones are hand-linked into a flexible, seamless mesh. Its overlapping design recalls the sculptural symmetry of 1930s jewellery while remaining thoroughly contemporary.
The À Cheval necklace and earrings extend this heritage. The necklace, ingeniously designed to transform into two bracelets, reflects Van Cleef & Arpels’ fascination with metamorphosis, while the earrings’ detachable pendants lend modern versatility to their radiant form. Together, these creations reaffirm the Maison’s dedication to timeless artistry, technical mastery and light captured in motion.
In its Classic High Jewellery, Van Cleef & Arpels continues to honour its rich lineage while evolving with grace. Inspired by history yet illuminated by innovation, each piece stands as an enduring expression of brilliance.
Dress codes can be hard to read. Is a floor-length dress formal enough for black tie? What shoes constitute smart casual? And perhaps most terrifying of all, what exactly is cocktail-appropriate attire? If you find yourself with that divisive dress code this festive season, we have you covered. The perfect looks strike a considered balance between formality and ease. Think sculptural dresses, silk slips, or tailored separates for the ladies, and blazers over tees, loose trousers, and loafers for the lads.
From the effortless glamour of Alaïa, to the playful silhouettes from Staud and P. Johnson’s classic tailoring, here’s our ultimate guide to nailing a cocktail dress code this Christmas.
There are deceptively simple decor decisions that can take any space to the next level, from unique lighting in a living room to high octane headboards in the bedroom. Still, nothing quite brings a kitchen together like a statement benchtop.
Marazzi’s ‘The Top’, from design showroom Obery, brings a sense of effortless elegance to any home, whethere that’s as a top, backsplash, table, door or in tailor-made furnishings. A feat of technological innovation, these porcelain slabs can emulate a range of natural materials, and have the added benefit of being durable, ultra-resistant to stains, and easy to clean.
Given the material’s innate versatility, it lends itself to endless uses and visions, from striking benchtops to furnishing elements and surfaces, both within and outside of the home. The marble-look variation is particularly alluring, boasting the appearance and tactility of marble, without the distinct cut lines and parameters of natural stone.
For anyone who has decided not to escape the city for the New Year period, there’s an array of rousing events, delicious dinners and unmissable parties taking place on New Year’s Eve guaranteed to ensure a very warm welcome to 2026. Whether it’s a long, languid lunch, a delightful dinner with family, or an entirely uproarious party that you seek, here’s where to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Auckland come December 31st. Secure your spot now, and bid adieu to 2025 in style.
Few rooftop bars in Auckland possess a view quite as impressive as the one at Queens Rooftop. Sitting pretty 21 floors above the city, you have it all, from the harbour bridge to the Waitakere Ranges. You’ll ring in 2026 literally on top of the world, with the debut Music First event headlined by Nathan Haines. Start the year on a high for the best omen around.
Savour the final hours of 2025 in Kingi’s stunning dining space, indulging in a tasty four-course dinner. The seafood-focused degustation-style meal will celebrate seasonal, local produce and sustainably caught seafood, alongside hand-picked wines from Kingi’s impressive cellar and a selection of celebratory beverages. Menu highlights include Mills Bay mussels, market fish with caulini, and Stefania’s tiramisu – plus a glass of Louis Roederer to get the party going. Toast the New Year at one of the two evening seatings at 5.30 and 7.30. ($199 per person).
This year, SkyCity and its dazzling array of dining experiences and event-hosting facilities are promising to take any and all festivities to another level. Come New Year’s Eve, SkyCity’s vibrant venues promise a night to remember, from Michael Meredith’s Metita’s bespoke NYE menu sure to surprise and delight to a tantalising five-course Japanese feast at MASU by Nic Watt to Orbit 360’s sky-high celebrations, and plenty of options for private dining, SkyCity is the place to be come December 31st.
Andiamo is the perfect spot to soak up the last of the summer sun on an average day; but on New Year’s Eve, this Jervois Road mainstay will be the ideal place to bid adieu to 2026. Grab a group of friends, set the tone with a welcome glass of champagne, and settle in for a three-course feast for $120 per person.
Holding prime position, with tables overlooking Viaduct Harbour, there is simply no better place to park up and celebrate the year that’s been than at Soul. Revellers can delight in delicious cocktails, a plate or two of delicious food from 11am, and tunes sure to get the party started. DJ Andre is on the decks from 4pm, and DJ Javed is taking over from 8pm to see us into 2026. Book tables for lunch and dinner, or try your luck at the bar, which is taking walk-ins all day and night.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Advieh with an evening of exceptional dining and festive cheer. Nestled in the InterContinental Hotel Auckland and led by lauded chef Gareth Stewart, enjoy a curated sharing-style menu that delights the senses. For $199 per person, start with bubbles and savour a culinary journey to welcome 2026 in style.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Gilt Brasserie — where the martinis are poured from 11.30 am and the Champagne is always flowing — and bid farewell to 2025 in style. Whether it’s your ultimate destination or a stop before or after the city’s fireworks, Gilt is a great spot for celebrations. Drop by for lunch during the day, or indulge in an exclusive $175 set menu, timeless cocktails, and immerse yourself in the always-lively vibe as you toast to 2026.
Mark the end of the year with an impeccable dinner at the Park Hyatt Auckland’s lauded restaurant, Onemata. For $398 per person, festive punters will be greeted with a cocktail hour and canapés, before indulging in a four-course dinner with a bottle of champagne to make sure you ring in midnight properly. With live DJ entertainment and breathtaking views of the fireworks at midnight, it’s an unforgettable black-tie evening to welcome 2026.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a night of glamour and gastronomy at Wallace Mua’s Trivet. Indulge in a gourmet menu paired with a glass of NV Ruinart Champagne on arrival before savouring exquisite dishes like Te Matuku oysters, kingfish tataki, and lamb belly with gochujang. At $145per person, it’s a sophisticated start to your New Year’s celebrations.
Welcome 2026 in style at Sunset Rooftop Bar’s exclusive New Year’s Eve celebration. Enjoy breathtaking city views, live DJ beats, and curated cocktails, kicking off with a glass of champagne. From sultry house grooves to disco-fuelled energy, revel in a vibrant atmosphere with gourmet bites and signature drinks. Tickets are limited — secure your spot for an unforgettable night above the city.
Fancy ringing in the new year looking out over the water, but don’t want to commit to a ticketed event? Head to Bivacco for a dinner of elevated Italian classics like beef carpaccio with truffle and salsa verde, prawn mafaldine in a spicy, chilli-spiked sauce, and the show-stopping whole lamb shoulder. Head al fresco just before midnight to soak up the fireworks and frivolity – starting 2026 as you mean to go on.
For a front row seat to the fireworks and some of the best food in the city, head to Josh Emett’s Onslow. With two sittings — an early sitting at 5pm for $190 per person, and a late sitting at 8.30pm for $260 per person — you’ll get a feast of epic proportions, and a glass of Ruinart champagne upon arrival.
With December upon us, the city bursts with cultural delights, from electrifying concerts and dazzling light shows to must-see theatre, ballet, art exhibitions, and local designer salons. There are plenty of family-friendly happenings to keep everyone satisfied. Whether you’re craving full festive cheer or one last cultural calendar date before the year ends, our definitive guide spotlights the very best events to book this December.
Simon Kaan Single Fin Surfboard II, 2025 oil on fiberglass 2020 x 510 mm
Ray Haydon Twist VIIII, 2025 carbon fibre, marine grade pleather 800 x 360 x 170 mm
When & Where: December 10th – 1st Feburary, Sanderson Gallery, Newmarket, Auckland
Sanderson is delighted to unveil their Summer Exhibition for 2025-2026, a vibrant group show that brings together an exciting array of works by the gallery’s talented artists. Guests of the gallery can expect standout pieces from Josephine Cachemaille, Kate van der Drift, Zara Dolan, Stephen Ellis, Liam Gerrard, Loren Marks, Ray Haydon, Julia Holderness, Simon Kaan, Damien Kurth, Paul Martinson, Yoshiko and Shintaro Nakahara, Llenyd Price, Mickey Smith, Kāryn Taylor, Katherine Throne, Molly Timmins, Jon Tootill, Freeman White, and Natasha Wright. This exhibition is a joyful celebration to mark the year’s end, honouring the creativity and achievements showcased by the gallery’s artists throughout the season.
When & Where: Now till the 24th December Commercial Bay
Struggling to find the festive spirit? Head on down to Commerical Bay where there’s enough yuletide action to get even the grinchiest of us into the swing of things. From portraits in Santa’s Studio, to an evening Christmas tree light show, mailboxes to send wishlists direct to Santa’s workshop, after-dark DJ sessions to keep you going on those late night shopping trips, free 4pm scoops of Ben & Jerrys to keep you fuelled, and more, there’s enough going on for both adults and little ones to make Christmas shopping seem even enjoyable.
When & Where: 4 pm – 6pm December 11th, Pt Erin Pools, Herne Bay, Auckland
Fruzio and local favourite Sonnie are making a splash this December with the School’s Out Pool Party at Pt Erin Pools, Herne Bay. Celebrate the end of the school year and the debut of Fruzio’s Smoothie Pops at this vibrant, family-friendly event. While pool entry applies, everything else is on Fruzio: free Smoothie Pops, a sizzling sausage barbecue thanks to Bostock Brothers Organic Free Range Chicken and Daily Bread, a live DJ spinning summer tunes, plus competitions and exclusive Sonnie spot prizes. Little ones can dive into pool toys and giant bubbles, while the older kids can take on the diving boards, slides, aqua run, and more. There’s something for everyone, making this the perfect way to launch into what we hope is set to be a long, hot summer.
When & Where: Throughout December, various Westfield shopping malls, Auckland
Animates is delighted to bring the magic of Westfield Santa Pet Photography to life, a cherished holiday tradition for animal lovers. Pet owners everywhere can now invite their furry friends to join in the beloved Santa photo festivities. Whether you’ve got a playful pup, a relaxed feline, or a curious rabbit, dress-ups are encouraged, so deck your pet out in their most adorable Christmas outfit and snap a keepsake photo to cherish. Whether you’re in matching sweaters or pint-sized elf hats, go big or go home. Bookings are essential for this in demand seasonal offering, be sure to secure your spot today.
When & Where: December 3rd, Auckland Town Hall, Auckland
Alt-rock icons Garbage will perform one show in New Zealand this December, ahead of their Australian tour dates. Reigning as one of the most influential alternative rock bands of modern times, the band – Shirley Manson, Duke Erikson, Steve Market, and Butch Vig — are considered true pioneers, selling over 20 million albums and responsible for a catalogue of era-defining hits. The upcoming December tour date will mark the band’s first appearance in Auckland since 2013.
When & Where: Throughout December, The Auckland War Memorial Museum, Auckland
Experience the magic of The Auckland War Memorial Museum after hours, where you can wander through every exhibit until 8:30 pm on Tuesday nights. Immerse yourself in the powerful spirit of 1970s activism with a new exhibition celebrating the newspaper that amplified Māori and Pacific voices. Embrace the festivities by crafting your own wooden bauble or sending wishes directly to Santa’s mailbox. Let the sounds of Auckland choirs in the Grand Foyer wrap you in the warmth of the season.
When & Where: December 2nd to 7th, Civic Theatre, Auckland
From December 2nd to 7th, Charles Dickens’ timeless holiday tale lights up Auckland’s Civic Theatre. Overflowing with music, laughter, and festive spirit, A Christmas Carol promises a magical experience for all ages. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge on Christmas Eve as four mysterious ghosts guide him through the wonders and lessons of Christmases past, present, and future.
When & Where: December 5th – 8th, 12th – 15th, 19th – 22nd, MOTAT, Auckland
Back by popular demand, MOTAT’s sellout seasonal extravaganza returns, promising more lights and more wonder than ever. Prepare to be transported as the museum grounds, heritage buildings, and trams come alive with Christmas lights, music, and festive cheer, designed in collaboration with La Lumiere. Running for 12 select dates from December 5th through December 22nd, enjoy tram rides and carol singers, outdoor games, and a visit with the big man himself, alongside delicious food offerings, while taking in the festive lights.
Q Theatre rolls out the red carpet for a hilarious Christmas comedy from the dynamic duo Tom Sainsbury and Lara Fischel-Chisholm. Step into the holiday spirit with Auckland’s beloved dance troupe and get ready for a night of laughter that will echo well beyond the final bow.
When & Where: December 5th – 13th, Aotea Centre, Auckland
Officially opening on December 4th, The Nutcracker has woven itself into Christmas memories for generations. Presented with a distinctly Kiwi flair, Act I whisks audiences to the sunlit nostalgia of childhood beach holidays, then sweeps them into the snowy Southern Alps in Act II. This fresh vision comes to life under RNZB Artistic Director Ty King-Wall, with Tracy Grant Lord behind the production’s enchanting sets and costumes, Jon Buswell lighting the stage, and POW Studios adding visual marvels; the show is set to the unforgettable music of Tchaikovsky.
Franklin Road Lights
When & Where: Throughout December, Franklin Road, Freemans Bay, Auckland
Every December, Auckland’s iconic Franklin Road bursts into a breathtaking community display of lights and festive joy. As night falls, this Freeman’s Bay location transforms into a magical wonderland, offering a free and unforgettable holiday experience for families and friends alike.
When & Where: On now until December 3rd, Föenander Galleries, Parnell, Auckland
From now until December 3rd, seize your last chance to immerse yourself in an extraordinary creative showcase at the renowned Parnell space. Fresh from the gallery’s appearance at Melbourne’s Spring 1883 Art Fair, Föenander Galleries presents a handpicked collection from some of the nation’s most original artists. With standout works by Israel Tangaroa Birch, Andrea Bolima, Lottie Consalvo, Nick Herd, Monique Lacey, Roger Mortimer, Monica Rani Rudhar, and Jess Swney, this exhibition celebrates a noteworthy collaboration between Jess Swney and Roger Mortimer.
When & Where: The Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, Auckland
A must-see for art historians, Pop to Present features a staggering back catalogue of American pop art, on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Opening with an iconic 1948 drip painting by Jackson Pollock, this unparalleled collaboration will feature 52 compelling works that have shaped American art and culture, dating back to 1945. Guests can expect an up-close and personal view of works by Andy Warhol, Benny Andrews, Rosalyn Drexler, Elaine de Kooning, Willem de Kooning, Helen Frankenthaler, Roy Lichtenstein, Mark Rothko, Kiki Smith, Clyfford Still, and Cy Twombly, among others. Open now, Pop to Present will be exhibiting at the Auckland Art Gallery until March 2026.
When & Where: December 21st, The Civic Theatre, Auckland
With four screenings scheduled in Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington, Love Actually in Concert returns to New Zealand audiences this festive season — and it’s promising to be just as magical as ever. From December 21st, this heartwarming festive favourite comes to life with the Auckland Festival Orchestra performing the unforgettable soundtrack live as the film plays out on the big screen. Celebrate over 20 years of love, laughter, and those memorable moments that have made Love Actually a timeless Christmas classic.
Run around town with everything but the kitchen sink in your bag at any other time of year, and you might paint a picture of chaos. In summer, though, you can show up anywhere with a bag full of sand-strewn towels, SPF and at least three different sunglasses and no one will bat an eye. In the warmer months, a bag full of a jumbled mix of belongings is a sign you’ve been living life properly.
So what, then, do you pick to carry all these hallowed items? A beach bag needs to be capacious, but not ludicrously so, to paraphrase Succession’s Tom Wambsgans. It should be hardwearing but chic. Stand up to sand and the odd waylaid drop of sunblock, but hold its own for impromptu drinks on the Viaduct.
From Chloe’s raffia Banana tote — the pick of all bohemian die hards — to Gucci’s versatile Totissima in indigo denim, we’ve rounded up our pick of the best beach bags to see you through until Spring.
Chloé Summer Banana crocheted raffia tote from MyTheresa
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