There is something distinctly intimate about putting on a fragrance. Beyond its olfactory purpose alone, the ritual of donning a scent can bring about moments of transformation and escapism, and can speak to the character of the wearer while revealing the various notes of their personality.
No one understands this as well as Tom Ford. The iconic fashion and beauty brand has built a reputation on creating scents that serve to capture, enhance and transform the nature of their wearers in ways that are subtle but undeniable. And its latest fragrance is no different.
Tubéreuse Nue is Tom Ford’s new Private Blend perfume that takes its wearer to another place — even if that place is a side of themselves they might never have explored before. Playing on tuberose’s reputation as the ‘mistress of the night’ (after all, it is a flower that only reveals its true potency once the sun has gone down) this intriguing scent is an invitation to embrace nocturnal sensuality.
From its initially-innocent notes of floral tuberose and jasmine, Tubéreuse Nue takes a seductive turn with touches of potent Timut pepper and erotic suede accord — providing a peak that hints at bare skin and after-dark pursuits. This is rounded off with a soft, musky blanket of patchouli and agar wood that lends a lasting glow.
In this perfume, Tom Ford has discovered an unexpected depth to the classic tuberose we know and love, reinventing it in way that evokes the scent’s classic innocence during the day but morphs into something heady, complex and cathartic at night. It is ultimately an escapist scent. Allowing those who wear it to leave the mundanity of daily life behind and investigate who they can become when lost in a fragrance that comes to life in the shadows.
If you’re feeling indecisive or uninspired about what to watch next, let this concise list guide you in the right direction.
Framing Britney Spears Watch on ThreeNow Quite possibly the most talked-about documentary of 2021 so far, Framing Britney Spears examines the highly-publicised life and career of pop icon Britney Spears, exposing the media’s toxic and troubling treatment of the superstar, her controversial conservatorship and the battle to control her estate. This feature-length film, produced by The New York Times, has seen a fresh wave of concerned fans and onlookers calling for the legal system to #FreeBritney.
Lupin Watch on Netflix Abandon your phone and turn all your attention to Lupin, Netflix’s new French language crime drama. Subtitles make this a requirement, although we would advise following this rule regardless. Inspired by the famous French tale of Arsène Lupin, the gentleman thief and master of disguise, this ten-part series follows Assane Diop as he avenges his father’s downfall at the hands of his wealthy employers. With twists and turns abound, this series has been likened to Sherlock Holmes and Luther in its addictiveness.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJPOla_1Px0
Your Honor Watch on Neon Fans of Breaking Bad will be pleased to see Bryan Cranston back doing what he does best — taking a turn from the norm to do terrible things. In Your Honor, Cranston stars as Michael Desiato, a respected judge whose son commits a hit-and-run, of which the consequences spiral into a web of deception, lies and impossible choices. A nail-biting watch that’s nerve-wracking to say the least.
Euphoria (Special Episodes 1 & 2) Watch on Neon Euphoria returns with two special episodes to placate eager appetites while season two is inevitably delayed due to Covid-19. In a departure from the bouncing soundtrack and drippingly rich visuals synonymous with the teen drama, the paired-back specials focus on characters Rue (Zendaya’s historic Emmy Award-winning role) and Jules as they hold one-on-one conversations with a sobriety sponsor and a therapist respectively. Intimate and intense, these bonus episodes are a must-watch for fans and newcomers, acting as an important bridge between the first and upcoming second season.
The White Tiger Watch on Netflix With an impressive 92 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Netflix’s new film The White Tiger is proving to be a hit with critics and audiences alike. Based on the Man Booker Prize-winning novel of the same name, The White Tiger explores the intricacies of class and caste in India, examining the divide between the haves and the have-nots through the journey of a poor villager turned ambitious entrepreneur.
Just because we’ve gone to Level 3, doesn’t mean we have to stop supporting the local hospitality industry. They need your custom now more than ever, and while for the short term we can’t dine-in, we can get online and see who is offering takeaway services.
It’s important that we all appreciate the ramifications of shutting an operation’s doors so swiftly, particularly when it comes to the fresh meat, seafood and produce that has already been ordered to prepare meals. Most of these food supplies are perishable, and therefore must be used, or worse still, disposed of.
So doing your bit to order from your favourite spots, who are doing everything they can through this new wave, to remain as unscathed as possible, is a charitable endeavour.
At Level 3, many of your favourite eateries are offering contactless pickups and delivery. Remember, we’ve done this before, we can do it again. We’re all in this together.
We encourage you to check the websites, Instagram and Facebook accounts of your favourites to see what you can do to support them.
It was over lockdown that friends Ollie Morrison and Logan Stevens embarked on a food experiment by combining some of their favourite things — soft, buttery roti paratha and South Asian flavours with the classic Kiwi pie. The result? A happy hybrid that looks like a pie but is packed with a whole lot more flavour.
The duo decided to take their roti pies to the world, and under the name Roti Bros, started cultivating a fast following as one of Auckland’s must-visit food stalls.
From left: Logan Stevens and Ollie Morrison; Butter Chicken pie
The line-up of Roti Bros’ pies comprises three main fillings that take cues from the traditional flavours of India, Thailand and Malaysia respectively. The Thai Beef Cheek pie is a delicious and bold combination of sweet, salty and sour, while the Butter Chicken pie offers the same kind of indulgent, aromatic character as the traditional curry we all know and love. Rounding out the trio, the Satay Panang pie is rich and creamy (with a hint of nuttiness) and is entirely vegan-friendly.
Alongside the core flavours, Roti Bros will occasionally offer up limited-edition pies as well — most recently a Chicken Tikka Masala iteration and a Lamb Mince Curry pie which they created in collaboration with Satya.
From left: Thai Beef Cheek pie; La Cigale Markets
Having done the rounds at a number of pop-ups and markets in Auckland, Roti Bros is currently setting up regularly at Parnell’s La Cigale every Saturday morning from 8am until 2pm. But you best get in quick — pies as tasty as these tend to sell out fast.
Is there anything more quintessential during a New Zealand summer than fish and chips on the beach? We’re always on the lookout for purveyors of our favourite deep fried goods, and whether you’re a resident of the Eastern Beaches or just visiting, this recently-opened Mission Bay chippie is one to try.
Named Fishboy, the “casual seafood eatery” is the brainchild of the team behind thriving Herne Bay outpost Fishsmith, and anyone familiar with their offering can expect the same level of delightful fish-oriented bites.
From left: Panko-crumbed haloumi; Battered fish burger
A key difference is that Fishboy has the capacity for dine-in eaters, thanks to larger premises with both interior and exterior tables — should the glory of dining on the sand at Mission Bay beach opposite not quite appeal. It is also licensed for beer and wine, of which it has a succinct selection from Garage Project and Soho, respectively.
Aside from the selection of excellent fish fillets, available battered, crumbed, grilled or with gluten free batter, and both potato and kumara chips, there’s a plethora of other dishes to branch out to. There’s salt and pepper squid, dusted with five-spice salt and pepper mix, and panko-crumbed halloumi; a mussel po boy burger, and a grilled fish salad for those feeling virtuous. The battered fish burger is always excellent, as are the fish tacos, and the variety of condiments including smokey aioli, hot sauce mayo and curry ketchup are sure to make each dip of a chip even more delicious.
From left: Fishboy is located on Tamaki Drive; Grilled fish salad
While we’ve certainly had a good summer so far, we’re not ready to say goodbye to it yet, and next sunny weekend day you’ll be sure to find us flocking to Fishboy — see you at the beach.
Aside from its high-tech vessels and the skills of its participating teams, one of the key magic ingredients integral to those involved in the America’s Cup is passion. For Patrizio Bertelli, president of Luna Rossa Challenge and CEO of Prada Group, a passion for sailing has enriched his life since well before the Italian team was established in 1997, and continues today.
The Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team was born one evening in Milan after a meeting between Bertelli and the Argentinian yacht designer, German Frers, and over 20 years later is now a team of seasoned Cup professionals — this is the sixth time they have launched as Challenger of Record.
Indeed, the current regatta would not be possible if it weren’t for the energy and funding of Prada Group and Pirelli Group. While Prada has supported Luna Rossa since 1997, this year it is the presenting and naming partner for America’s Cup and the Prada Cup challenger series.
An inspiring entrepreneur, Bertelli was born in 1946 and started a company making belts and bags at a very young age. This was to be a precursor to his future ventures as, in 1977, he met his now-wife Miuccia Prada, and together they expanded the Prada brand to become one of the world’s most important luxury goods companies.
The couple’s cultural interests also led to the creation of the treasured Fondazione Prada in 1993, and Bertelli is the first Italian to have been inducted in the America’s Cup Hall of Fame. Charismatic and driven, Patrizio Bertelli’s love for the Cup is not motivated by commercial considerations but a deep respect for the uniqueness of the challenge. As he said in a recent America’s Cup video interview: “That’s what makes it special.”
Thanks to the America’s Cup, boating culture has come to the fore in a big way. After all, there’s nothing like spending a beautiful, bluebird day out on the water, particularly when the entertainment is high-speed, high-stakes yacht racing. And given that things are really only just starting to heat up in the America’s Cup arena, and there are many more opportunities for boat days on the horizon, we thought it high time we rounded up all the essentials to ensure any boating adventure is a success.
The best way to avoid a faux pas on the water is to keep things simple, sleek and elegant. From practical considerations to a touch of necessary glamour, these are the essential pieces you should have on hand before stepping foot on a boat.
Providing a family-friendly environment for everyone to enjoy, Viaduct Harbour’s purpose-built structure the Upper Deck is the ideal location to catch all the racing action this summer. Located in Market Square directly opposite Hello Beasty there’s plenty of seats, including comfortable bean bags and sofas positioned beneath umbrellas, from where you can recline and watch the teams go head to head.
Order takeaway food from any of the surrounding eateries including Hello Beasty or O’Hagans or simply bring a picnic of your own and settle in for an afternoon of waterfront action.
Please note: In keeping with the family-friendly nature of this area, it is an alcohol-free zone that is suited to all ages.
The most romantic day of the year is almost here. Chances are you’ve sourced the perfect gift, booked the best table in town or maybe just taken the liberty of planning a lovey-dovey activity or two. Whether you’ve done all of the above (or none at all), this sweet dining experience is sure to be the cherry on top.
Miann Chocolate Factory is serving up dessert with a difference this Valentine’s Day, with special sittings available at its Wintergarden Glass Houses on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th February.
The glasshouses, which opened last year at Miann’s Morningside location, offer an intimate, Insta-worthy dining setting like no other in Auckland.
For the pretty price of $50 per person, couples can expect an a la carte dessert, drink, a cake each to take home and a bar of Miann’s craft chocolate — all to be enjoyed inside the chic surrounds of the glasshouses.
With bookings available for parties of two, it’s the ideal opportunity to celebrate love in all its wonderful forms with your better half, best friend or beloved family member. Sharing a sweet with your sweet has never been so, dare we say, sweet.
Sittings are limited, so best be in quick to secure your spot. Book online here
As we re-emerge from another stint of working from home, there’s no better time to treat yourself and support inner-city businesses the tastiest way we know how: by showing some love at lunchtime. From sandwiches and salads to dumplings and noodles, these are the best places to grab a work lunch in Auckland’s CBD (and surrounding city suburbs). Tools down, forks up.
Obar Snack Bar Inspired by the lunch bars of Seoul, Chancery Street’s Obar Snack Bar is the perfect midday pit-stop, whether you’re dining solo or as part of a co-worker crew. Specialising in gimbap (Korean-style sushi), Obar Snack Bar’s offering sees it paired in a combo meal with tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), ramen or fried chicken and dumplings. The checklist menu makes ordering a breeze, and with prices starting at under $10 for a combo, this is one delicious lunch deal that will keep your wallet and your tummy happy.
The Humble Canteen
The Humble Canteen If no-fuss nourishment is what you seek, make a beeline for Wynyard Quarter’s wholesome new offering. The Humble Canteen is on a mission to offer tasty food that nurtures the body and the planet, with a variety of healthful dishes that can be eaten on-site or to-go. Choose from the likes of flatbread wraps, soups, curries and build-a-bowl salads, complete with help yourself ‘flavour bombs’ such as pickled green tomatoes, almond dukkah and crispy shallots.
&Sushi Located cityside at City Works Depot and Britomart, &Sushi has carved out a reputation for serving some of the most delicious, intricate pieces of sushi around. Build your dream lunch box from the enticing cabinet of sushi, nigiri and inari, or order a bowl of teriyaki chicken donburi or tofu yakisoba. Eat in or take away, &Sushi will have your lunchtime looking good and tasting even better.
Mr. Taco
Mr. Taco Blink and you’ll miss it, this tiny hole-in-the-wall spot on Federal Street has captured our attention for serving some of the tastiest, most authentic tacos in town. With a succinct menu of traditional Mexican favourites, Mr. Taco is a compact operation, perfect for a trio of tacos or a burrito on the go. We highly recommend both the cactus and jackfruit tacos — a flavourful, delightfully spicy choice that will please herbivores and carnivores alike.
Goodlife Superfood Co. For healthy eating that is enjoyable and delicious in equal measure, try Goodlife Superfood Co. Those looking to refuel for a productive afternoon ahead will be more than pleased with its fresh, imaginative mason jar salads such as jerk mango chicken and red grape, walnut and chicken. With dietary requirements well and truly catered to thanks to vegan, dairy-free, nut-free and gluten-free options, it’s no surprise this Fort Street lunch bar is constantly bustling with customers.
Daily Bread
Daily Bread City dwellers rejoice, our favourite sourdough slingers have set up shop in the CBD. Tucked away right next to Saint Patrick’s Square, Daily Bread’s new outpost comes in the form of an architecturally designed kiosk. Serving its signature sandwiches, pastries and pies, you’ll also be able to grab a loaf of bread to take away, ensuring your next homemade office lunch is a lot more impressive than the last.
Hero Sandwich House Speaking of sensational sandwiches, it would be remiss of us to speak of such things and not mention Hero Sandwich House, which just last year brought its legendary deli-style sandwiches to the CBD. Located inside multi-functional workshop, gallery and workspace The Tuesday Club, a visit would not be complete without the famous Philly Cheese (a brioche bun stuffed with skirt steak, jalapeños, buttered onions, pickles and cheddar), plus you can add on Proper Crisps, extra pickles and a cold drink for only $5.
Bang Bang Kitchen If dim sum, fried rice and Peking duck are more your speed, be sure to head to Auckland Fish Market’s Bang Bang Kitchen come lunchtime. Inspired by the Hawker markets in Singapore and Malaysia, Bang Bang Kitchen is expert at Asian-fusion flavours. Choose from dishes such as warming laksa, lobster fried rice and prawn har gow, or take advantage of lunch specials like crispy pork or Peking duck on rice.
Sunny Town
Sunny Town Don’t be put off by the queues at this Lorne Street hot spot, Sunny Town is just the ticket when you’re in need of some noodles, stat. Once you’ve secured your seat and ordered, food arrives almost instantaneously in the form of soft, pillowy pork and vegetable buns, juicy prawn shao-mai and numbingly good dandan noodles. Eat eagerly and exit with intent, ensuring the next lucky luncher can have their fill.
Caffetteria Allpress There’s something to be said about the classics, like having a good old fashioned sandwich for lunch. Drake Street’s Caffetteria Allpress has the sando down pat, with fillings changing daily plus a few favourites like the Reuben and the tuna, egg and mayo gaining mainstay status. We can recommend the chicken sandwich if it’s available — a feat of sandwich engineering combining moist, mayo-y chicken with crunchy salad and sourdough for a fresh, never soggy sandwich.
Spectra
Spectra Situated in the expansive Sky Lobby of Commercial Bay’s impressive PwC Tower, Spectra is a recently-opened daytime eatery providing the perfect space to sit down for a business lunch or grab something on the go. Peruse the array of tasty cabinet treats, or choose something from the thoughtfully refined all-day breakfast or lunch menu. Our pick is the ‘The Plate’, a simple, healthy option where you choose your protein (sirloin, chicken or market fish) and pair it with the salad of the day. Easy as that.
Paper Crane If you’re near Wynyard Quarter, you’ll find delicious Asian-fusion offerings at Paper Crane. The menu showcases many Asian favourites, from steamed baos, to sashimi, donburis, and of course noodles. Our recommendation is the misoyaki salmon on rice. Both takeaway and dine-in-friendly, Paper Crane offers local workers a reliably excellent eatery, and also a great location for meetings.
Hello Mister Vietnamese cuisine is associated with quick, fresh, light, yet very tasty food, which explains Hello Mister’s popularity, with locations on Hardinge Street and Customs Street West in the city. During the hot summertime, we opt for the rice paper rolls, particularly with tofu or Peking duck fillings. If you request them to go, you can take a short stroll and enjoy their succulent flavour in nearby Victoria Park. By contrast, when winter rolls around, it’s the phở that calls us to pull up a chair and dine-in.
Toss
Toss Specialising in healthy salads, Toss’ wholesome bowls make it easy to eat your greens. The ‘Post-Workout’ salad is a virtuous choice with or without the aforementioned exercise, combining several varieties of salad greens, free-range chicken, avocado, feta, quarters of perfectly boiled egg and green goddess dressing. With a range of warm bowls, wraps, smoothies, toast and a soup of the day, there’s a lot to love at this Wellesley Street West spot.
Luna Cafe & Eatery If a lunchtime craving for bánh mì strikes, look no further Luna Cafe in Chancery Square. From the bread to the pâté, everything in this Vietnamese sandwich is made from scratch, making it one of the best bánh mì in Auckland.
Yume
Yume Hidden away on Vernon Street, Yume (formerly known as Haru no Yume) provides all manner of fresh and tasty Japanese favourites for inner-city workers. Inviting to dine in and easy to take away, Yume has an irresistible cabinet of sushi and tempura available per piece, plus bento boxes, ramen and udon. We can’t go past the tuna poke bowl with rice, pickles, salad and spicy gochujang sauce.
Food Truck Garage On days when you’re feeling totally uninspired come lunchtime, trot along to always trusty (and tasty) Food Truck Garage in City Works Depot. Along with the signature burgers and tacos, we rate the Redergize bowl, a virtuous combination of baby spinach, quinoa, beetroot, carrot, flax seeds, cranberry and miso dressing. Add free-range chicken and this health-conscious lunch will see you satiated and ready to spring over that afternoon slump.
Best Ugly Bagels Typically this New York staple leans on the heavier side of the lunch scales but it’s a different story when it comes to Best Ugly Bagels. Instead of the usual dense Big Apple-style, the bagels here follow the Montreal method with a lighter texture of bread that is topped, rather than filled. The classics are as good as the first day we tried them, with the likes of King Salmon (salmon, cream cheese, red onion, capers) and Yodi (pastrami, habanero mustard, grilled Swiss and an obligatory pickle) remaining forever favourites.
Scarecrow With a florist located right next door, the combination of the warmly-lit cafe and grocery store makes you feel as though you’ve entered a small village when you visit Scarecrow — a charm that is hard to come by in the heart of the city. As a favourite breakfast destination, lunch at Victoria Street East’s Scarecrow shouldn’t be overlooked. Simply yet deliciously executed, the menu spans the likes of fancy toasties (think artisanal cheese and heirloom tomato), pasta, risotto, potato latkes and tomato tarte tatin.
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