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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Women’s and youth events have been added to the America’s Cup schedule.
Teams are only permitted to build one new AC75.
There are limitations on the quantity of foils and componentry that can be built for the AC75s.
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.
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.
The number of race crew onboard the AC75 has been reduced from 11 to eight sailors.
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.
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.
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.
The AC75 class of boat will be maintained for the next two events.
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.
Opening Hours:
Monday — Friday, 7.30am — 2pm
Saturday, 8.30am — 2.30pm
Sunday, 9am — 2pm
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
As one of New Zealand’s most revered hair stylists and makeup artists, Kiekie Stanners is well-versed in the art of using hair styling tools to effortlessly achieve the most glamorous of looks. For this issue’s cover shoot with actress Lydia Peckham, Stanners opted for two contrasting but equally stunning looks — styled using Shark’s range of powerful and versatile hair tools. Here, she talks us through the easy recreation of Lydia’s bouncy, voluminous look, using Shark’s styling tools at home.
“To get Lydia’s voluminous, bouncy waves, I first spritzed the hair to dampen. Then, using the Shark Flexstyle with the Oval Brush attachment, I took small sections of the hair, starting on the bottom layers, and dried the hair while gently curling it in tandem. Twisting the hair away from the face, I worked through top layers, sectioning off the front first and rolling the hair forwards, over the face, gently twisting the tool up and out to create soft, fluid bangs. I then switched the attachment to the Auto-Wrap Curlers to add extra bounce. Here, I took 5cm sections of hair and, using the right barrel on the right side of the face, held the hair at mid-length, allowing the hair to twist itself around the barrel. Gently sliding the barrel towards the scalp, I held it in place for 5 seconds before sliding the tool out, below the hair. I then followed this around the top layers, ensuring to switch to the left barrel for the left side of the face. Finally, I sprayed to set, using my hands to shake out curls for an effortless, soft finish.”
The City of Lights cast a multifaceted glow on this year’s Paris Fashion Week. With a sense of anxiety in the air — echoes of the Olympics and a sense of luxury stagnation. Yet, amidst these challenges, Parisian designers did what they do best: they rose to the occasion.
The Spring 2025 collections embraced a new kind of essentialism. Gone was the need for purely decorative flourishes. Functionality took centre stage, but not at the expense of creativity or character. Showcasing pieces that prove fashion can be both useful and utterly captivating, the Spring 2025 collection was about clothes that empower you to navigate the complexities of the contemporary world, all while looking undeniably chic.
The much-anticipated debut collection by Alessandro Michele for Valentino was sure to spark debate. While many are concerned by the departure from the brand’s heritage, others see the new Valentino under Michele’s creative vision as a faithful reinterpretation.
Michele — well known for his thematic shows — delivered a collection steeped in Valentino’s past. There was a very apparent and considered deep dive into Valentino’s archives. Cropped polka dots echo Iman’s 1985 look, embellished jackets recall Fall 2002 couture, and ruffles harken back to Spring 2002 ready-to-wear.
The question is, is there still a place for Michele’s signature eclecticism? While it’s still magical and whimsical, does it feel as revolutionary as it once did? Many expected a reinvention for Valentino, but this collection stays true to Michele’s mash-up of vintage aesthetics.
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Jonathan Anderson’s collection for Loewe shone with freedom of movement and playful whimsy. Dresses, skirts, and jackets were adorned with hoops, creating a surreal spinning top effect. The technical precision made them feel ready to take flight, a notion further emphasised by feather-based T-shirts, tailoring, and trousers.
Chiffon dresses with floral prints suspended in animation, with removable hoops allowing the wearer to interpret the look to their own desires. The collection mirrored a symphony, with silhouettes repeated in different fabrics or colours. Two iridescent pearl shell fit-and-flare coats were couture masterpieces that are sure to demand vault-like storage for their preciousness.
Anderson’s creative perfectionism and mastery were present everywhere. Loewe’s SS25 was a delightful escapade through Anderson’s imagination, showcasing his technical brilliance and playful spirit.
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Dior continues its ‘Year of Sport’ with a triumphant SS25 collection inspired by female empowerment and athleticism. Building on their Olympic partnership and Maria Grazia Chiuri’s dedication to feminism, Dior championed female athletes. Multi-talented artist and archer SAGG Napoli opened the show, her performance a captivating fusion of art and movement.
The collection delved into the house’s archives, revealing a long history of incorporating sportswear. Chiuri references Christian Dior’s mother and her equestrian attire, a foundation for the Amazon suit and a symbol of female agility.
The collection offered a fresh interpretation of the Dior silhouette, merging classic elements with a contemporary, sporty edge. Cut-out swimwear, jersey dresses, and buckled cargo pants reflect a youthful spirit and freedom of movement. Peter Philips’ beauty look completes the picture, a post-workout aesthetic with smudged eyeliner for an active, empowered woman.
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Christopher Esber’s Parisian return saw a masterclass in delicate control. SS25 delved into volume and flow, inspired by 1950s undergarments and the ethereal quality of evening wear.
Camisole lace panels transform into fluid, wispy, and romantic dresses. Sheer fabrics are sculpted with silk vapour chiffon and hand-beaded ostrich feathers, creating an intimate transparency that evokes a dandelion in flight.
The colour palette was a study in contrasts — airy whites and creams juxtaposed with stark blacks. Dark lace and silk transform into sophisticated, gathered gowns, while black linen offers a touch of brutal beauty. The result is a collection that is both romantic and modern, a testament to Esber’s ongoing exploration within his design process.
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Chloé’s SS25 under Gabriela Hearst saw a refreshing return to unapologetic romance. In a world focused on female empowerment, Hearst embraces the feminine spirit, reminding us that strength and romance can coexist.
Light, airy fabrics and soft florals create a joyful mood. Billowing maxi dresses evoke a bohemian spirit but with a modern twist. The collection also presented a reinterpretation of the Flou blouse, a broad-shouldered silhouette from the 1970s archives, similar to the resurgence of the Dad bomber jacket.
Summer is Chloé’s playground, showcasing the antithesis of the cool French girl style. Effortless layering allows for easy transitions from runway to reality; floaty dresses, lingerie-inspired slips, and chic crochet swimsuits. The denim debate is settled with the introduction of the high-waisted slim flare, a flattering option for different body types and generations of Chloé fans.
Hearst’s understanding of Chloé’s heritage is evident. She avoids trendy edginess and focuses on reviving the brand’s core essence: girly romance. From lacy camisoles to flowing maxi dresses, the collection caters to women who yearn to embrace their femininity.
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Miu Miu’s Paris Fashion Week show was a masterclass in storytelling. Forget fleeting live streams — the true meaning lay in the immersive experience. The set mimicked a newspaper printing plant, while a pre-show film explored the concept of truth in a satirical future. But beyond the spectacle were the clothes. Think babydoll tees, retro sportswear, and reimagined 70s prints. Layered shirts, embellished dresses, and swimsuit-over-skirt combos challenged fashion norms. School uniform shirts, twisted and layered, symbolised the absolute truth of youth. This concept extended to the reimagined Petit Bateau tunic dress, a nod to childhood innocence.
Miu Miu dared to be different. Unlike many designers, Miuccia Prada tackled the post-truth era head-on. Her show wasn’t just about clothes; it was a call to action. She urges us to question narratives and consider our role in shaping truth through social media and expression.
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Saint Laurent’s SS25 under Anthony Vaccarello is a sharp departure from last season’s sheer layers. This season, Vaccarello embraced Yves Saint Laurent’s legacy, reinterpreting the iconic Le Smoking tuxedo and his concept of masculine tailoring for women.
Many of the looks mirrored the recent menswear collection, featuring voluminous, broad-shouldered suits, ties, and statement spectacles. Vaccarello added complexity with layered outerwear—trench coats, leather jackets, and bombers—creating a dynamic silhouette. What followed was an unexpected turn with flowing, paisley-printed tunics and tiered maxi skirts, adding a surprising touch of boho-chic from Vaccarello.
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Daniel Roseberry’s Schiaparelli SS25 was a celebration of heritage designed for a multi-generational clientele. He envisions mothers, daughters, and granddaughters all coveting and sharing these pieces, solidifying Schiaparelli as a purveyor of family heirlooms rather than fleeting trends.
Luxury is redefined, with pieces mirroring the brand’s couture in construction and materials. Whittled waists, dramatic shapes, and XXL trims echo the couture aesthetic.
The collection celebrates life with vibrant colours, 3D florals, and high-shine finishes. Signature Schiaparelli artistry shines through, making these pieces ideal for red carpets or those seeking a subversive yet elevated look.
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Victoria Beckham seems to have evolved her design language for SS25, blurring the lines between art and fashion. Opening her show with looks that featured body-cast corsets, there was an element of wearable art. Beckham delved deeper into the concept of dressing as an art form. Tailoring was hacked away with exposed construction becoming a signature. Slashed trousers, open waistbands, and deconstructed details challenged her traditional silhouettes.
Sensuality was also present via flesh-toned bodysuits and revealing cuts. Despite the avant-garde experimentation, Beckham’s signature denim still shines. A bubble hem skirt was a surprisingly playful touch.
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Demna brought defiance and volume to Balenciaga’s Paris show. Forget subtlety – this was about pushing boundaries and sparking conversation.
The runway transformed into a dining table, with guests seated directly on it. Models arrived like guests of honour, stripped down to boudoir-ready lace and suspenders. The twist? Flesh-toned body stockings added a layer of Balenciaga modesty. Printed tights mimicking lingerie offered a cheeky wink.
But the real showstopper was the corsetry. Demna reimagined traditional dresses, fusing a prim facade with kink-couture backs and tight lacing. This high point may reignite interest in Demna’s vision beyond streetwear.
Drawing inspiration from childhood fashion shows, Demna paid homage to clothes with a point of view. Expect debates to erupt around his blown-up silhouettes. Trench coats morphed into hooded bombers, and jackets became makeshift coat racks adorned with layers of outerwear.
He even reimagined collars, with Medici-style stand collars constructed out of five-pocket jeans. The finale featured spandex ‘pantashoes’ paired with body-hugging flexible spandex-wrapped nylon — a fastening-free innovation.
Love it or hate it, Balenciaga once again served as a feast for the bold.
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Chanel’s grand return to the newly renovated Grand Palais was a celebration of the brand’s heritage but also a glimpse into a future yet unwritten. The collection itself was a safe haven of familiar themes. Classic tweed sets received a spring refresh with feathery embellishments, and flowing capes added a touch of drama. Feathers, inspired by the birdcage motif, became a recurring theme, adding lightness in contrast to the weighty textures of tweed.
While there’s undeniable beauty in these timeless pieces, a sense of anticipation hangs heavy. Virginie Viard’s successor remains a mystery, leaving the creative direction in the hands of the design team. The collection is a competent homage to Chanel’s legacy, but it lacks the cohesion and innovation that defined the Karl Lagerfeld era.
One can’t help but wonder who will be the next visionary to breathe new life into this iconic brand. Yet, the show serves as a powerful reminder of Chanel’s enduring legacy. When the bird finally escapes its cage, the possibilities are truly exciting.
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Spring has sprung, and our annual pilgrimage back to the great outdoors has begun. As we emerge from our winter hibernation, we do so with fresh inspiration — ready to reimagine our outdoor areas into elevated oases for the warmer months ahead.
There’s been a real move in recent times towards treating our outdoor spaces with the same, design-led approach we would the interiors of our homes, crafting sumptuous, sophisticated settings that act as an extension of our lounges, kitchens, and dining rooms. From imagining chic and functional outdoor kitchens, to eschewing the traditional (and practicality-led) designs of outdoor furnishings — instead opting for something a little more contemporary and intriguing, to selecting transitional furnishings (such as a plush club chair or chic sofa) that can find a place both outside of and within our homes, and inviting tactile touches and lighting usually reserved for indoor settings into our outdoor living spaces — the lure of the great outdoors is stronger than ever.
“A meal enjoyed Al fresco is one of life’s simplest pleasures, and there’s no better way to relish the warmer months than by dining outside.”
A meal enjoyed al fresco is one of life’s simplest pleasures, and there’s no better way to relish the warmer months than by dining outside. While the hardiness and durability of materials is an obvious consideration, the modern outdoor dining options are plentiful — from contemporary riffs on traditional dining chairs, such as Design Warehouse’s Carlos armchair, to sculptural occasional chairs like Molteni&C‘s Petalo armchair, and modern daybeds for more casual entertaining. And if you’re simply seeking a nook within which to curl up with a good book in hand, a sumptuous sofa or luxurious lounger with the ability to withstand the elements is just the ticket.
“for those fortunate enough to possess outdoor settings with a striking outlook, capitalise on your vista with a bespoke set-up that wholly maximises the view.”
Elsewhere, for those fortunate enough to possess outdoor settings with a striking outlook, capitalise on your vista with a bespoke set-up that wholly maximises the view. From perfectly positioned seating to reimagining the space entirely to draw the focus outwards, to cleverly selecting furnishings that complement the space’s backdrop in colour, shape, or material, the options are endless, and the results are exceptional.
It goes without saying that the past few years have been tough for just about everyone. Between the state of the world at large and each of us experiencing our own challenges on a personal level as a result, you’d be hard pressed to find someone who isn’t longing for a fresh start in 2025.
Tomorrow is World Mental Health Day, and the last week in September marked Mental Health Awareness Week — both events serving as a reminder that there is a lot more we could be doing to better support our own mental wellbeing, and that of those around us. Organised by New Zealand’s Mental Health Foundation, this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week theme was “community is what we create together” — reminding us that community is often how we overcome adversity. And, while community looks different for everyone, ultimately, it’s about connection — something that, in our ultra-online world, we could all do with a little more of.
Mental health and wellbeing looks different for everyone, however there are strategies and activities we can all engage in to promote positive mental health and self care. While the phrase ‘self care’ might now have garnered complex connotations due to its association with the multi-trillion-dollar wellness industry, at its core, the sentiment of self care is more important than ever. It’s not selfish to make sure you’re feeling your best — it means you can show up more effectively for those around you, for your job, family, and life in general.
Here, in honour of both World Mental Health Day and Mental Health Awareness Week, we share some self-care suggestions and reminders that might work for you year-round, not just for this week.
For some of us, getting our pulse racing with some exercise might be just the ticket to burn off any anxious energy, or to give us respite from spiralling thoughts. If this is you, going for a run, doing a dance or gym class, going rock-climbing or even just doing a little at-home workout can help when regularly implemented. Not only will your fitness levels increase, you’ll have a sense of achievement to buoy your mood, and you’ll hopefully sleep better, which is always a good thing.
On the other side, perhaps meditative activities are more suited to you. Meditation, yoga, drawing or painting, reading for pleasure, a pottery class, listening to music and mindful breathing can all facilitate a feeling of calm. Equally, a stroll in nature can help. Try actively noticing your surroundings — the landscape around you, the feeling of the air on your skin, any smells or sounds you can sense. It will help you be present and in the moment.
While we’re all for staying informed, sometimes the constant bombardment of information can actively contribute to a heightened feeling of anxiety — especially when it all seems like bad news. If you’re finding you’re spending a lot of time on your phone, implementing time limits on certain apps in your settings can be a good prompt to put the phone down and do something else.
Find yourself wishing you looked a certain way, or had certain possessions or a certain lifestyle after scrolling through particular accounts? See ya — hit the unfollow button. Even though, by now, we know nothing on social media is as it seems, it often doesn’t stop us from feeing affected by it. Going through and unfollowing or muting any accounts that you feel unhappy after looking at is the best way you can protect yourself, and trust us, you won’t miss them.
If you’re struggling to see the positives, sometimes reminding yourself of them does the trick. Even if it’s just once a week, or once a month, taking a bit of time to write down the good things in your life can help you appreciate them.
Feeling overwhelmed? Try writing down everything you feel you want or have to do that day. Even if it’s something small, like remembering to call a friend, you’ll feel less stressed by making sure it’s written down and you’ll be less likely to forget. Creating a timeline for when you want to do each task can also be helpful, but remember not to punish yourself if you don’t get it all done.
Food is one of the great joys of life, and we all deserve to feel nourished by a healthy, tasty meal. If you’re someone who derives pleasure from cooking, take the time to show yourself some love by making one of your favourite dishes to eat.
There are several great snippets of advice in this the caption of this post by stylist and editor Mecca James-Williams, and in these trying times where job-loss is rife, separating your identity and worth from that of your career is a good one. While it’s important to feel you can derive satisfaction and a certain level of enjoyment from your job, remember we are so much more than what we do to make money.
If you are struggling, there’s no shame in expressing how you’re feeling. You don’t have to cope with things alone. Opening up to a friend or loved one can seem scary but chances are you won’t feel so isolated after doing so. Seek professional guidance in the from of counselling or therapy services if you can afford it — look at it as just another form of self-care. If you’re worried it’s not within your budget, Home and Family will just take an appropriate voluntary contribution based on your income and has three locations in Auckland.
Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand
Cloud Workshop — Art workshops for grieving children and young people.
Youthline — Youth organisation that supports young people throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
The Lowdown — An online platform with tools to help young New Zealanders recognise and understand depression and anxiety.
Like Minds, Like Mine — A public awareness programme designed to increase social inclusion and end discrimination towards those with experience of mental illness or distress.
I Am Hope — With a strapline that reads ‘Normalising mental health. It’s just a conversation.’ I Am Hope, founded by comedian Mike King, provides support to New Zealanders struggles with poor mental health.
Voices of Hope — Local charity providing a safe place for people facing mental health challenges, so they can feel inspired, supported and empowered to share their struggles.
Art direction — Amber Armitage/ Marigold
Photography — Wendy Fenwick/ Flash Studios
While the colour pink may have dominated the cultural sphere across the past year, don’t let that deter you — trends come and go, but this warm hue is enduring, particularly when it comes to conceiving a creative space for little ones.
Far from the poppy Barbie hue rendering just about everything imaginable at present, the dusty, subtle tones employed in this charming playroom offer a timeless yet playful ambience, bringing a soft femininity to the space. Paired with creamy neutrals and tactile furnishings, soft pinks take on an easy elegance in a kid’s play space, and can easily be used to create a cosy, welcoming spot that inspires creativity.
Of course, before considering any major colour changes, it is always to the experts at Resene that we turn first, who not only know how to combine colours in a way that brings out the best of each, but possess a deep understanding of the hues of pink that will best suit your child’s personality and play.
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