Photo by Brett Boardman

On a waterfront site in Sydney, Carter Williamson transforms a historic Victorian cottage into a residence as striking as its surrounds

Architecture — Carter Williamson
Interior Design — Claire Delmar
Photography — Pablo Veiga

Wurrungwuri, a reinvigorated heritage-fronted home in Sydney, deftly blends the past and present with an eye to the future, reimagining a historic cottage with a contemporary new extension. This stunning residence was crafted by Carter Williamson, who transformed it to meet the clients’ vision of a house built for entertaining, filled with light, and exuding luxurious yet approachable elegance.

USM Haller Storage from ECC
Cassina Soriana Armchair from Matisse
Flos Bellhop floor lamp from ecc, Knoll Wassily chair from studio italia & Moooi Meshmatics chandelier from ecc

The project brief was clear: celebrate the original 1881 Victorian cottage while creating a contemporary, connected space. At the street front, the unassuming, original facade is carefully preserved, while at the property’s rear, a fluid form sits overlooking the river — its sinuous expression exploring the limits of spatial ambiguity.

Cappellini S-Chair from Matisse, Zanotta Zeus and Teti stool from studio italia
ClassiCon Non Conformist armchair from matisse

One of the first houses constructed on its street, the four-room cottage was originally built with sandstone quarried from the site, with extensions added over time with no cohesion from one to the next. In its latest renovation, alterations were removed, and a new, harbour-facing extension integrated, cascading over four distinct levels, cut deep into the sandstone bedrock. Linking old with new is a light-filled, cylindrical staircase — the first of the home’s defining ‘voids’, encased in artfully tessellated white bricks which nod to the home’s artistic past. Once belonging to artist Montague Scott, the residence now sits as an architectural artform in its own right, its gallery-like interiors showcasing an incredible collection of contemporary works.

Zanotta Zeus and Teti stool from studio italia

“One of Wurrungwuri’s defining features, and perhaps the reason behind the exceptional feeling of lightness and calm, despite a busy mix of materials, references, and eclectic artworks, is its use of voids, which create a sense of connection throughout the home.”

But, perhaps the most artistic element of all, is the home’s striking extension, which sits like an open book, cleaving into two wings reaching towards the harbour. Rooms are interwoven across the levels, infused with a sense of both the playful and the refined, with social spaces and private dwellings carefully dispersed across the plan. One of Wurrungwuri’s defining features, and perhaps the reason behind the exceptional feeling of lightness and calm, despite a busy mix of materials, references, and eclectic artworks, is its use of voids, which create a sense of connection throughout the home, bridging the cottage and extension.

Edra Standard sofa from matisse & Artek Rope chair from kada

ClassiCon Day Bed from matisse

The ground level serves as the hub of relaxation, featuring a spacious main lounge and a cosy TV room, seamlessly connected by adjoining terraces and a central staircase that leads to the backyard and jetty. 

The home’s design maximises the breathtaking view without overshadowing its own architectural elegance, incorporating thoughtfully crafted viewpoints that highlight both the striking interiors and the scenery beyond its walls. The material palette furthers this, maintaining a focus on naturality to invite the outdoors in. Here, sandstone, brick and stone take centre stage, offset by concrete and timber throughout.

Wurrungwuri is a home of grand proportions and harmonious balance; a blend of old and new, public and private, offering a retreat for a busy family that is both a functional space and a work of art in its own right.

Design

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Embrace everyday indulgence with whisky-infused Mānuka Honey — a unique culinary creation elevating dining to new heights

Some culinary pairings feel inevitable; a meeting of ingredients so perfectly matched that they demand to be brought together. The Southerly centres on one such pairing; a world-first whisky-infused Manuka honey that distils the raw beauty of New Zealand’s wilderness into a single, sumptuous jar.

At its core, The Southerly is a celebration of both contrast and harmony. Wild-harvested Manuka honey, gathered from the sun-drenched forests of the North Island, meets the rich, oaky warmth of an eight-year-aged whisky from the snow-capped landscapes of the South. The result is an infusion that is bold and nuanced — a golden elixir that brings the best of both islands together for a taste of the unexpected.

Black sesame and Lime chicken wings glazed with The Southerly

Crafted with care, intention, and a deep respect for provenance, The Southerly is an effortless way to elevate everyday indulgences and bring a new dimension to hosting occasions. Its versatility lends itself to both the simplest of pleasures and the most refined culinary moments — a drizzle over aged cheddar softens the cheese’s sharp tang, while a swirl on top of fresh figs wrapped in prosciutto amplifies the fruit’s natural sweetness.

HOMEMADE GRANOLA WITH FRESH FRUIT & YOGURT DRIZZLED WITH THE SOUTHERLY

Breakfast, too, becomes something quietly special — spooned over granola with creamy yogurt and seasonal fruit, it adds depth and a golden richness that lingers. For those with a taste for the unexpected, the honey thrives in contrast. It tempers the heat of spiced dishes, like glazed roast meats, sticky ribs, or fiery chicken wings, bringing balance and a hint of sweetness.

WHISKY-INFUSED MĀNUKA HONEY GRILLED PEARS & PLUMS WITH TOASTED NUTS

It’s equally at home in the realm of dessert, acting as a decadent finishing touch over a scoop of ice cream or the perfect pairing for dark chocolate — and sublime when drizzled over poached pears, where its warmth complements the fruit’s delicate fragrance.

The Southerly also finds a place behind the bar, offering a refined alternative to traditional sweeteners in cocktails. A splash transforms a whisky sour, a toddy, or even a classic Manhattan, enhancing each sip with subtle floral undertones. Whether stirred into a smoky old fashioned or paired with citrus and bitters for a fresh twist on a classic, it’s a modern bartender’s secret weapon — an ingredient that deepens a drink’s complexity while remaining effortlessly smooth.

VODKA TONIC WITH WHISKY-INFUSED MĀNUKA HONEY

Every element of The Southerly has been thoughtfully considered, from the bespoke wooden lid — a nod to the Manuka and oak that define its character — to the dark glass jar that protects its golden contents. This is a product designed not simply to be used and discarded, but savoured, shared, and gifted, bringing a unique talking point to the table, and elevating social occasions to new heights. 

To enjoy The Southerly is to experience New Zealand’s wild extremes — a journey from forest to distillery, hive to bottle, north to south. It’s an invitation to elevate, to indulge, and to discover something truly rare.

thesoutherly.co.nz

Gastronomy

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Fiji’s Nanuku Resort is the tropical oasis that should be on your 2025 travel list

Nestled along two kilometres of pristine coastline in Fiji’s Pacific Harbour, Nanuku Resort is a true tropical paradise, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the heart and soul of Fiji.

Set within a 500-acre private estate, this retreat blends refined luxury with rich cultural heritage, offering an extraordinary escape for couples, families, and groups seeking an authentic Fijian experience.

views from the 500-acre private estate

From the moment you arrive, Nanuku feels different. Here, hospitality is more than service — it’s storytelling, tradition, and a heartfelt embrace into the Nanuku tribe. Greeted with the resort’s hallmark warrior welcome, you’ll step into a world where every detail is thoughtfully curated, from the private villas and residences — designed with contemporary elegance and local craftsmanship in mind — to seamless, intuitive service that makes this resort feel like home.

the resort’s hallmark warrior welcome

Days unfold in a relaxed rhythm. Mornings might begin with a guided kayak through glassy waters, a trek to hidden waterfalls, or a sunrise yoga session overlooking the Pacific. Afternoons bring snorkelling adventures amidst kaleidoscopic coral reefs and immersive cooking classes. As the sun sets, sail across the bay on a sunset cruise or gaze at the cosmos through NASA-calibre telescopes in one of the world’s most breathtaking stargazing destinations.

For the ultimate indulgence, a short sail across Beqa Lagoon transports you to Nanuku Island — a secluded paradise where you can sip Champagne on untouched sands and revel in absolute solitude.

Nanuku Private Island

Elevating its already stellar reputation, Nanuku recently unveiled a $12 million refurbishment, reimagining its suites, residences, and public spaces with an eye to contemporary comfort and authentic Fijian design. The newly enhanced accommodations exude sophisticated yet laid-back charm, with expansive ocean-facing terraces, luxurious interiors, and serene private pools. More than just aesthetics, the refresh ensures a deeply immersive experience — where every element is designed to elevate relaxation and enhance the connection to this natural paradise.

Villa at Nanuku Resort

Beyond its luxurious foundations, Nanuku is deeply committed to conservation. With an in-house marine scientist leading coral restoration and mangrove reforestation initiatives, the resort ensures that every stay contributes to the protection of Fiji’s delicate ecosystem.

Beachfront Villa’s at Nanuku Resort

Effortlessly accessible yet worlds away, Nanuku Resort is where adventure, relaxation, and authentic Fijian hospitality intertwine. Whether you seek thrilling experiences or quiet moments of bliss, you’ll find it — and more — at Nanuku.

nanukuresort.com

Escape

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Jervois Steak House unveils a decadent caviar service

Luxury finds a new expression at Jervois Steak House with the arrival of its elegant Caviar Service, offering diners a refined prelude to their signature cuts. Presented with the classic accompaniments of warm brioche, crisp gaufrettes, silky crème fraîche and a scatter of fresh chives, this indulgent offering is all about ceremony and sophistication.

Two exceptional options anchor the experience: the Siberian Ossetra Superior, a 30g tin of rich, nutty pearls prized for their velvety texture ($180), and the Imperial Osceitra, an elevated selection with golden hue and buttery depth ($230). Both varieties are served in their original tins, nestled in ice, inviting slow appreciation and shared reverence.

In a setting defined by its commitment to premium provenance and bold, confident flavours, the introduction of caviar adds a new layer of luxury — one that speaks to the discerning diner and the timeless appeal of well-executed classics. Whether paired with a glass of Champagne or savoured as a standalone indulgence, JSH’s caviar service offers a taste of something rare, opulent, and quietly unforgettable.

jervoissteakhouse.co.nz

Gastronomy

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Adorable Adornments — these are the chic and cutesy bag charms we’re stacking

Charm your admirers and festoon your carry-all with all manner of cute accessories for a truly personal touch.

Paris Fashion Week Street Style
Balenciaga Le City charm Eiffel keychain from Net-A-Porter
dog-shaped bag charm from Gucci
LV x TM Superflat bag chain from Louis Vuitton
Miu Ballet leather keychain trick from Ssense
Triomphe pom-pom keyring from Celine
Elephant charm from Bottega Veneta
Beau leather micro bag from Miu Miu
Myteak Bear bag charm from Max Mara

Leather keychain trick from Miu Miu

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Elton John & Brandi Carlile

Heading away for the long weekend? Press play on these new albums and podcasts

When a road trip is on the cards, its prime time to give our go-to playlists a good old shake-up, and given how difficult it can be to wade through the multitude of new content in search of the best, we’ve decided to do it for you. From Lady Gaga’s return to Bon Iver’s luminous new album, to a raft of new podcasts that run the gamut of captivating content, we have rounded up a curation of everything to listen to now.

New Albums


Mayhem
Lady Gaga

One of the most highly anticipated releases of 2025, Lady Gaga’s eighth studio album, Mayhem, is a genre-blending exploration of her musical influences and life experiences. Created “from a place of happiness”, the album fuses diverse styles into an electrifying, transgressive pop journey. Featuring the Grammy-winning ‘Die with a Smile’ with Bruno Mars, along with singles Disease’ and ‘Abracadabra’, it showcases Gaga’s signature boldness, embodying her creative evolution.

Song to start with: Disease

Who Believes in Angels?
Elton John & Brandi Carlile

Elton John and American signer-songwriter Brandi Carlile have joined forces on a deeply personal, genre-defying album, Who Believes in Angels? With lyrics by Bernie Taupin and production by Andrew Watt, the record explores new creative territory for both artists, marking a fresh chapter in Elton’s legendary, ever-evolving career.

Song to start with: Who Believes in Angels?

Jennie
Ruby 

Inviting listeners on a deeply personal journey, Ruby marks Blackpink’s Jennie’s foray into solo artistry. Covering her time as a student in New Zealand to K-pop superstardom, the album blends genres and is brimming with emotion. Featuring the likes of Childish Gambino and Dua Lipa, and FKJ, its 15 tracks champion self-expression, confidence, and artistic freedom.

Song to start with: Mantra

Sable, Fable
Bon Iver

Marking a luminous new chapter for indie folk band Bon Iver, Sable, Fable blends radiant pop with raw introspection. Depicting a personal journey from solitude to love, the album juxtaposes past pain with newfound joy, embracing vulnerability and transformation through Justin Vernon’s most open, unguarded sound yet.

Song to start with: Awards Season

new Podcasts


The Spy Who

Taking listeners deep into the world of espionage, The Spy Who reveals the hidden stories of spies who risked everything. Hosted by Indira Varma and Raza Jaffrey, this gripping podcast blends immersive storytelling with real-life intelligence operations.

Human Intelligence

Naomi Alderman’s podcast challenges the notion that great minds think alike. This compelling series delves into the ideas of history’s most influential disruptors and teachers, offering sharp analysis and immersive storytelling that brings their brilliance to life.

Fashion Neurosis  

Bella Freud invites cultural icons to explore the deep connection between fashion and identity. Through candid, intimate conversations, guests reveal how style shapes self-expression, relationships, and society — proving fashion is far more than just superficial.

Middlebrow

In this pseudo-intellectual podcast, comedians Dan Rosen and Brian Park dissect modern culture, dating norms, and the status symbols of millennial pretension. Witty and self-aware, it’s for those who find quiet joy in the mid-point of high- and low-brow culture.

Culture

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Up the ante on this year’s Easter egg hunt with our definitive guide to Easter gifting

Chocolate eggs are nice and all, but this Easter, why not give your loved ones the gifts they’re truly coveting? Take your Easter egg hunt to new heights this year (and earn some serious brownie points in the process) by going above and beyond on the gifting front. Here, we round up the crème de la crème of gifts sure to impress.

Christofle Mood Cutlery Set in Egg from The Studio of Tableware
Bottega Veneta Avant Garde Acetate Sunglasses from Moda Operandi
SOHO HOME PANGBOURNE RATTAN OTTOMAN TRAY from Design Central
STAUD Carmella Beaded Clutch from Muse
Audo Copenhagen Kettle teapot from Dawson & co.
Moooi Purr (Rabbit) Table Lamp from ECC
3.01ct Yellow Cushion Cut Diamond Belle Ring from Walker & Hall
FUTURE FORMS GEM from Design Central
Moschino Eggs Card Holder from Ssense
Fabergé Heritage Guilloché Egg Pendant from Partridge
gg emblem small bucket bag from Gucci
Maruni Armless Chairs from Matisse
Egg Cup set from Dior
LIÉ STUDIO The Camille Earrings from Muse
Glas Italia Shimmer Table from ECC
SILICATE PLATE STAND from Ligne Roset
Peter Rabbit x Gucci T-shirt from Gucci
CHIHULY MASTERPIECES II Oyster from Design Central
Edie Parker Jelly Tabletop Lighter from Ssense
Tiny Tiffany Rabbit Soup Bowl from Tiffany & co.
B&B Italia Inside Bowl from Matisse
HEM Puffy Lounge Chair from Tim Webber
Idyllia drop earrings from Swarovski
FILA VASE from Ligne Roset
Royal Doulton Bunnykins Children’s 3 Piece Set from The Studio of Tableware
simone Rocha Micro Egg Bag from Ssense
Lucky Animals Rabbit Clip from Van Cleef & Arpels
Tiffany Toile Egg Cup from Tiffany & Co.
Zanotta Sciangai 50 Coat Stand from Studio Italia
Laetitia Rouget Footed Cake Stand from Moda Operandi
Peaceful Countryside Baby Rabbit from Swarovski
FOURTH STREET Egg brass ornament from Net-a-porter

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Azabu

Planning a family outing? These are the best kid-friendly restaurants in town

While the likes of Prego have long been the go-to for those with kids in tow, there are actually a number of restaurants around Auckland that offer the kinds of environments and menus that the whole family can enjoy. Here, we round up the ones to book these school holidays.

Left: Farina. Right: Gemmi

Farina

Farina reopened its doors last year after a short closure and refresh, much to the delight of the eatery’s loyal legions — including mini gastronomes who look forward to the delightful fare on Farina’s Bambini menu. Here you’ll find perhaps one of the tastiest kid’s menus in town, with a host of pastas, pizzettas, and desserts sure to delight even the most discerning of mini diners.

Gemmi

Italian trattoria-inspired eatery, Gemmi, offers a kids-sized version of a few faithful go-tos, as well as a plain butter and cheese pasta which always goes down a treat with littles while parents enjoy a meal and glass of something delicious. This Commercial Bay-based spot offers a relaxed, convivial vibe coupled with quick service and mouthwatering food that is never over-complicated — all the makings of a kid-friendly joint, if you ask us.

Takapuna Surf Club

Takapuna Surf Club

New Zealand’s answer to the laid-back yet convivial surf clubs Australia is famed for, this new all-day spot has fast become a go-to for North Shore locals and visitors alike. And, with an epic, dedicated offering for the kids, a sweeping dining room and a games space (not to mention it’s proximity to the park), this lively locale is a perfect place to swing by with the little for a bite.

Azabu

With a menu dedicated to kids 12 years and under, this stalwart Japanese destination with locations in Ponsonby and Misson Bay is right on the money. Once the little ones have chosen between six pieces of sushi, a bento box or something from the menu for ‘bigger kids’ like chicken karaage, they get a little pack full of coloured pencils, paper and chopstick joiners (which help teach kids how to use them properly). Did we mention they also throw in a scoop of vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce on the house?

Osteria Uno

Birkenhead locals will already be well-versed in the spoils of chic Italian eatery Osteria Uno, serving simple, seasonal fare where fresh, handcrafted pasta is the star of the show. But it’s perhaps lesser-know that they offer a delightful kids menu too, with three plain but tasty pastas conceived for little palettes, as well as a special kiddo’s dessert. There’s also one of the best wine lists in town on offer for thirsty parents — win, win.

Left: Osteria Uno. Right: First Mates, Last Laugh

First Mates, Last Laugh

Taking up one of the city’s most coveted positions, First Mates, Last Laugh is a delightful place to drink and dine, with a number of outdoor seating options, and plenty on offer for the kids (including direct access to Westhaven Promenade for scooter races). Nab one of the cosy booths under shade tents, or settle in on the front deck, and grab the klittle a tasty bowl of French fries or a treat from the ice cream bar (or both), and settle in to watch the world go by.

Twofold

Retro-modern brewery and eatery Twofold opened its doors in Parnell last year, boasting a contemporary, all-day menu that offers something that both kids and their charges alike will enjoy. The kid’s menu is all between just $12—$14, and features the likes of Twofold fried chicken and hand cut chips, the classic fish & chips, and a very sweet mini platter that would send any hungry youngster’s tongue wagging. Bonus: there are a host of delicious drinks on offer too, with a focus on bespoke beer. Dads — take note.

Stone Oven

Devonport’s newly reimagined institution, Stone Oven, is a great spot to head to with the kids for a tasty brunch. The space has a real laid-back vibe to it, and there is plenty on the menu to satisfy both mini diners and their more discerning counterparts, running the gamut from pancakes with apple crumble to classic avo on toast. There’s even a ‘Kids Brekkie’ on offer, with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit and a hash brown — sure to go down a treat. The berry smoothie is always a hit, too.

Left: Stone Oven. Right: Fed Deli

Fed Deli

This CBD stalwart is Auckland’s answer to the classic New York deli. Here, food is simple, flavourful and utterly indulgent, and guarantees to offer a satiating meal at every sitting. Any Aucklander worth their salt will have a go-to order here (more than likely the chicken salad sandwich with chicken skin crackling, iceberg and dipping gravy), but it just so happens The Fed also caters incredibly well to mini discerning diners too. The ‘Lil Feds’ menu features a number of tasty delights, from a basket of fish and chips to a mini version of the famed chicken sammy and more.

Non Solo Pizza

Long lunching at Parnell’s NSP need not be reserved for the grown-ups, with this Italian institution’s ‘Bambini’ menu offering plenty to satisfy smaller appetites. Find a thoughtful selection of tasty pizzas, pasta and chicken cotoletta complete with shoestring fries and seasonal veg. For dessert, the Nutella pizza is a must-try. The best part? For only $25, kids can choose a secondi, dolce and a drink. Bellissimo.

Children's dining experience at The Grounds
The Grounds

The Grounds

Arguably the most family-friendly eatery in Auckland, chefs Ben Bayly and Mike Shatura have committed to creating a space that has all the tools to keep the kids entertained. From colouring books and one of the city’s best playgrounds to a menu featuring handmade pasta, dumplings and warming toasties, a dining experience with the children at The Grounds is always a smooth and enjoyable ride.

Baduzzi

Get ’em started on the good stuff at a young age with Baduzzi’s kids menu. Featuring dishes like handmade buttered pasta with herbs and parmesan, delicious lamb meatballs braised in tomato sauce, and chicken schnitzel with marinara sauce and fried egg, just as much care goes into this menu as the main one, and it shows.

Masu

Masu

SkyCity’s Japanese stalwart has long been a family favourite. The kids can enjoy a bento box with all the beloved Japanese delicacies, all while mum and dad enjoy some delicious fare from the regular menu and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.

Amano

Famed for its pasta, this Britomart restaurant is perfect for an early dinner. The standard menu has some great options for kids such as the bran loaf at breakfast and the chargrilled chicken for lunch. However, these are far from the only options — the kitchen will endeavour to make anything from the menu work for younger diners. Whether that be with smaller portions, the addition of chicken or the removal of any ingredient, Amano is here to keep kids happy.

Prego

It’s hardly surprising that Prego would make this list. For decades this delicious stalwart has been rated one of the best places to go for a family-friendly affair. There, you’ll find a dedicated menu of child-friendly Italian classics, all served with a scoop of ice cream to keep bellies well and truly satisfied.

Auckland Fish Market

Auckland Fish Market

Every kid loves fish and chips, so why not take them to the ultimate seafood destination? At Auckland Fish Market you can order from a variety of different purveyors serving everything from sushi to lobster fried rice. Following your family feast, head on over to Silo Park for a stroll while the children have their fun on the playground.

Andiamo

Neighbourhood eatery Andiamo is all about looking after locals, so it’s no surprise they are pros when it comes to catering to children. Here, you’ll be pleased to find a selection of slightly-tweaked versions of its famous spaghetti, calamari, mac and cheese and meatballs ready to satisfy young palates. What more could you want?

Gochu

Gochu

When Gochu landed in Commercial Bay, it quickly carved out a reputation for serving some of the tastiest Korean fare in town. More contemporary than traditional, with cuisine described as ‘New Korean’, Gochu offers the perfect dining experience for both seasoned fans of Korean flavour and novices looking to whet their appetite. And the eatery also has an enticing kids offering which is the perfect way to introduce littles to inventive yet approachable new flavours.

Hallertau

Take the whanau out to Riverhead or Clevedon for a meal at Hallertau that caters to just about everyone, young and old. The kid’s menu comes with the likes of wood-fired pizza, delicious chicken burgers, pasta, panko crumbed fish, and a variety of sweet treats (including a build-you-own-sundae situation), with something sure to fill the hungriest of tummies.

The Blue Breeze pork shumai
The Blue Breeze Inn

The Blue Breeze Inn

They’re short on a kids’ menu, but not on flavour — something you’re never too young to get acquainted with in our books. The steamed pork and prawn dumplings are an excellent option to share with littles, as is the peking duck with pancakes. When paired with a side of the wok-charred broccoli, you’ve got yourself an easy, tasty and fuss-free dinner.

Sugar at Chelsea Bay

Satisfy the kids’ sweet cravings in the most epic way at Sugar at Chelsea Bay’s factory. Even the fussiest eaters won’t be able to resist French toast with fried brioche and maple, or the range of tempting cabinet treats. With an interactive zone, outdoor playground and plenty of space to run around and exert every bit of energy, there’s no need to fear the sugar high.

Man O’War

The perfect place to enjoy the beauty of Waiheke Island with the whole family, Man O’ War is a great place to park up with the kids for a casual bite. This idyllic spot is located on the Eastern side of the island and boasts a sprawling lawn right next to a beautiful beach. Whether you pack a picnic to enjoy with some glasses of Man O’ War’s exceptional wine (parents only, of course), or indulge in some delicious food at the restaurant, the setting of this vineyard is unparalleled and allows plenty of space for little ones to run around.

Ebisu

Ebisu

Boasting a special menu dedicated to their littlest diners where all meals come with a scoop of vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce, Ebisu is the perfect place to go for family night out. And while the kids are tucking into a teriyaki chicken or salmon bowl, a delicious bento or sushi roll, parents can be enjoying Ebisu’s famous Japanese fare in peace. Win-win, we think.

The Heke

Enjoy a raft of delicious food, wine and beers within The Heke’s sprawling gardens. This relaxed destination is super family friendly (and even dog friendly too, we’re told), where the chefs prepare everything over glowing coals and the craft distillery and brewery on-site will ensure that parents can enjoy a libation or two while their kids enjoy the activities on the lawn. Offering a mud kitchen, a sandpit, cornhole games, climbing structures and a (very fun) bouncy platform, as well as live music and a menu of classics for the whole family to enjoy, The Heke is well worth an afternoon visit.

Ayrburn

Ayrburn

Those heading South for the holidays would do well to make for Ayrburn — the spectacular dining destination on the outskirts of Arrowtown boasting a number of exceptional venues perfect for kids and their charges alike. The Dell is the destination’s social lawn and a more than perfect spot to park up with kids for the afternoon, soaking in the peaceful setting. The kids can grab a gelato from The Dairy nearby, a destination filled with whimsical sweet treats, or a casual bite from The Bakehouse, while parents can keep their glasses full at The Burr Bar or The Manure Room. Or, book lunch or an early dinner at The Woolshed, Ayrburn’s casual, bistro-style eatery promising day-to-night fare that the whole family can enjoy wholeheartedly.

Gastronomy

Step inside The Vault: Gilt Brasserie’s luxe new private dining space
First Look: Masu’s new Express Lunch is refined, fast and full of flavour
These are the best seafood-centric dishes to seek out over the cooler months
Tribù ELIO 3-seat sofa, Tribù UKIYO lounge chair

Brand Spotlight: Discover the pioneering Belgian brand redefining outdoor living

Rooted in nature’s quiet luxury, Tribù’s 2025 collection embraces organic forms, earthy textures, and the art of slowing down. The expanded ELIO range by Yabu Pushelberg introduces fluid, pebble-like sofas, daybeds, and poufs, redefining outdoor lounging with modular versatility, while sculptural dining tables, woven lounge chairs, and refined side tables complete the collection. Designed for effortless elegance, every piece invites connection — with nature, with design, and with the moment.

Tribù Elio Modular Sofa from Dawson & Co.
Tribù Elio Daybed from Dawson & Co.

dawsonandco.nz

Design

Take a Tour: Matteo House by Trinity Architects is an ode to fluidity
Give interiors a timely update with new lighting by Flos
Master the perfect serve with this luxurious caviar set
Northbrook Arrowtown and the connecting Ayrburn precinct

Thoughtful design and world-class living collide at Northbrook Arrowtown — your future home

Meet Northbrook Arrowtown — a luxury later life development sitting alongside Ayrburn, inspiring residents to live the lives they love, in the place they love the most.

Northbrook Arrowtown

There’s much to be said about the trend towards elevated later life living. Accommodation that, instead of focusing on the final chapter, celebrates the beginning of an exciting new one — filled with freedom and a self-determined lifestyle. And there is perhaps no one creating later living residences better than Winton. 

Chris Meehan’s innovative, design-driven property development company is making incredible strides in changing the face of retirement, creating exceptional later life residences that emphasise enjoyment, inspiring residents to continue to live the lives they love, in the places they love most, while ensuring the support they may require is there waiting for them, if and when they need it. 

Northbrook Arrowtown Residence

Where, historically, aged-care has been associated with slow, sedentary, and quiet lives lived in quarters that reflect the same ethos, Northbrook is centred on the opposite: full lives, well lived, in stunning, design-led spaces. And nowhere is this more evident than in the new Northbrook Arrowtown — an environment of unparalleled beauty and charm, perfect for living a busy and engaged, yet deeply peaceful life. 

“Ayrburn — Winton’s lauded hospitality precinct, sits on the very same parcel of land,
a gentle walk through manicured gardens
from your Northbrook home.”

A premium development that offers sleek, sophisticated residences to those who appreciate good design and want to enjoy the best years of their lives in the lap of luxury, where every whim is catered to, and at the level one might expect from a five-star hotel, Northbrook Arrowtown is redefining not just later living, but what’s possible within a community-centric masterplanned development.

The pool at Northbrook Arrowtown
Yoga Studio at Northbrook Arrowtown

Here, residents won’t just find architecturally-designed residences of the highest quality, sweeping outdoor spaces, expert care for when it’s needed, and endless amenities, but will also have access to the world-class hospitality and entertainment on offer at Ayrburn — Winton’s lauded hospitality precinct that sits on the very same parcel of land, a gentle walk through manicured gardens from your Northbrook home.

The Woolshed at Ayrburn

In fact, at Northbrook Arrowtown, Ayrburn becomes part of the rhythm of daily life. From supply runs at R.M Prime Produce, which boasts deli delights, an in-house butcher, fine wines, fresh-cut flowers, and all of the essentials (including pre-made meals to go), to enjoying morning coffee and freshly-baked pastries from The Bakehouse while taking a refreshing stroll through the precinct’s sprawling grounds, to lunch, dinner, drinks and beyond at the many exceptional bars and eateries — each catering to a different occasion or mood, the options truly are endless. And, beyond the impressive food and drink scene, Ayrburn plays host to a jam-packed rota of vibrant events and activities, from immersive garden and art tours to laid-back weekly jazz nights, live opera on The Dell, and the likes of the Ayrburn Classic — one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most prestigious motoring events. 

Ayrburn

Come mid-year, the grounds transform into a whimsical winter wonderland, channelling the conviviality of European metropolises, while during the summer months, the precinct hums with life as live music, open-air films, market days and more fill the calendar.

And, venturing slightly further afield, keen golfers will find three of New Zealand’s top 15 courses in the surrounding area, while skiers will be spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting a field (Northbook Arrowtown is, after all, set between the dramatic backdrops of The Remarkables and Coronet Peak, with Cardrona just a short drive over the Crown Range), and those partial to cycling or hiking will find themselves surrounded by an expansive local network of trails.

“Northbrook Arrowtown is an environment of unparalleled beauty and charm, perfect for living a busy and engaged, yet deeply peaceful life.”

The quaint, picturesque township of Arrowtown is five minutes away by car, and offers luxury retail, galleries, markets, a cinema, and stores for anything and everything you may desire, while Queenstown itself is just over 20 minutes away in the opposite direction, and is the perfect location for entertaining family and friends. 

Located a short 15 minutes from Queenstown’s international airport, from Northbrook Arrowtown, overseas travel is accessible and stress-free, and with everything you need right on your doorstep at Ayrburn, returning home comes without the usual rush to the shops to restock the pantry and reset the home. The security of the development also means you can travel free of worry, knowing your home is being well taken care of. 

Residence interior at Northbrook Arrowtown

And, within the homes themselves, the top tier design Winton has become famed for shines through in every detail, from the finishes and textiles within the residences to the styling of the communal zones — all of which is centred on a luxurious palette of warm neutrality, with an emphasis on comfort and low-maintenance durability. 

Winton’s CEO, Chris Meehan, believes the location and amenities at Northbrook Arrowtown are unmatched, offering its future residents five-star hotel-like living in one of New Zealand’s most desirable locations, “Northbrook Arrowtown is surrounded by natural beauty and will be one of our most spectacular later living projects,” says Meehan, “Sited on land that has become known as Waterfall Park — a unique location within the Wakatipu Basin where Mill Creek spills into the site as a waterfall — the development naturally extends down to the historic Ayrburn Farm, now known as Ayrburn.” He continues, “Residents will enjoy immediate access to Ayrburn and its hospitality offerings, connection with the surrounding walkways, cycleways and world-class golf courses, as well as the proximity to both Arrowtown, Queenstown and its international airport.”

Terrace at Northbrook Arrowtown

Designed to cater to later life residents who are seeking to live full, vibrant lives, Northbrook Arrowtown offers an unparalleled lifestyle. 

Beyond the luxurious residences themselves, which have been meticulously designed for comfort, convenience, and ease of living, the location ensures everything you could possibly need is just beyond your home’s threshold. Meaning all you have to do is sit back, relax, and embrace your next chapter. 

northbrook/arrowtown.co.nz

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