Comfort often guides our daily wardrobe choices, and when time allows, it’s worth dedicating a moment to wardrobe maintenance. Simple tasks like sewing loose buttons, hand washing delicate pieces, mending hems, or refreshing your cashmere can go a long way in preserving the longevity of your wardrobe. Known for its cool, breathable softness, cashmere offers a balance of laid-back polish and luxurious comfort. With regular wear, it’s natural for these refined knits to show subtle signs of use — but with the right care, they’ll continue to look and feel exceptional for years to come.
Pilling
After a few wears, it’s natural for your cashmere to develop tiny balls of fibre on the surface — known as pilling. These soft little clusters often appear in areas prone to friction, such as under the arms or where your handbag rests. While they may seem like a flaw, pilling is a normal part of wearing natural fibres and is easily managed with proper care.
To maintain the integrity of your knitwear and preserve its refined texture, follow this simple step-by-step guide:
How to remove pilling from cashmere:
1. Lay flat — Gently stretch your cashmere garment across a clean, flat surface.
2. Use a cashmere comb — Hold your cashmere comb in your dominant hand.
3.Comb in one direction— With short, firm strokes, brush in one consistent direction to lift and remove loose fibres.
4.Avoid over-combing — Focus only on affected areas and be gentle to maintain the weave.
5.Finish by airing — Lay the garment flat in a shaded, ventilated space to breathe before storing.
For best results, avoid wearing the same cashmere item two days in a row. Resting your knit between wears helps retain its shape and softness — ensuring your investment pieces remain in impeccable condition for seasons to come.
To keep your cashmere looking as refined as the day you bought it, avoid dry cleaning and keep it well away from the washing machine. Instead, handwashing is the preferred method — a gentle, intentional process that preserves the integrity of the fibres.
How to Hand Wash
1.Prepare your basin — Fill a clean basin or bucket with cold water and add two capfuls of a mild, wool-safe detergent.
2. Submerge and cleanse — Gently immerse the garment and squeeze the soapy water through the fabric. Do not rub, wring, or stretch, as this can damage the delicate weave.
3.Rinse and remove water — Rinse thoroughly in cold water. Lay the garment flat on a clean towel, then roll it up to gently press out excess moisture.
4.Dry flat and shaded — Reshape the garment and lay it flat to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated space. Avoid direct sunlight, radiators, or tumble dryers, all of which can warp the fabric.
5.Steam if needed — Once completely dry, use a garment steamer to release any remaining wrinkles.
With the right care routine, cashmere maintains its softness, structure, and timeless appeal — wear after wear.
Between Washes
Cashmere doesn’t require frequent washing — generally, every three wears is enough. If layered over other garments, this can be extended further.
To keep your knitwear fresh between washes, a light spritz of fabric spray helps neutralise odours and revitalise the fibres. Hold the spray around 15cm away and mist lightly over the surface.
For best results, allow your cashmere to breathe between wears by airing it flat in a shaded, well-ventilated space. This gentle care routine ensures your knitwear remains luxuriously soft, fresh, and ready for wherever the day takes you.
Final Tips
To preserve the shape and quality of your cashmere, always store pieces folded — never hung — and keep them tucked away in breathable cotton care bags. This prevents stretching and allows the fibres to rest undisturbed, whether at home or in transit.
For added protection, place a natural cedar block inside each bag. Cedar helps to gently deter moths and absorb residual moisture, keeping your garments fresh and safeguarded season after season.
Interior Design — Kim Lambert Design Photography — Lauren Miller
Set against a tranquil riverbend in Toronto’s Hoggs Hollow, this graceful home, designed by Kim Lambert, embodies modern elegance with a distinctly European sensibility. The interiors are an artful blend of raw textures and refined finishes, where soft greys merge with warm accents, and natural materials dialogue with sculptural lighting and bespoke furniture.
CLOUD PENDANT by APPARATUS from ECC, Three Carousel pendants by Lee Broom from ECC
Lambert’s masterful use of space is evident, with each room offering a seamless flow that invites both serenity and sophistication. The design is thoughtfully curated to connect the home’s inhabitants with their surroundings, drawing inspiration from old-world charm yet elevated by a contemporary edge. Every detail serves a purpose, creating an atmosphere that is calming and inviting, yet undeniably striking in its presence.
ODE COFFEE TABLE by PIET BOON from ECC, Redondo Armchair by Patricia Urquiola from Matisse
The home exudes a quiet grandeur that is felt from the moment you enter. The carefully considered materials, such as the driftwood grey floors, Venetian plaster walls, and rich marble accents, lend texture and character, while the restrained colour palette allows light and shadow to animate the spaces naturally.
Michael Anastassiades Tube Chandelier (left) from ECC, CLOUD PENDANT by APPARATUS from ECC (centre)
A welcoming mix of rustic and refined elements, such as the dramatic hot-rolled steel in the kitchen and the black marble bar in the living room, offers a tactile experience that remains grounded yet dynamic. Whether relaxing with family in the open-plan kitchen and family room or entertaining in the intimate dining space, every corner of this home balances the warmth of family life with the sophistication of a private retreat.
Bensen Lounge Chair and Chaise brand available from Tim Webber
The sense of refined calm continues in the primary bedroom, where Belgian-inspired restraint meets layered texture. Tapestry wallpaper, a softly sculpted fireplace in Venetian plaster, and intimate seating areas create a sanctuary that feels both timeless and deeply personal, an elegant finale to a home designed for meaningful, everyday living.
Swarovski captures the art of layering with effortless modernity, inviting a new era of self-expression through exquisite craftsmanship.
Each piece in Swarovski’s Matrix and Hyperbola collections reflect the structure of crystals themselves — refined, luminous, and captivating — while embracing unexpected colour palettes and playful cuts that lend a contemporary edge to classic silhouettes.
The versatility lies in the fluidity of the collections; the pieces striking enough to wear solo, yet purposefully designed for stacking, mixing, and layering to create dynamic, personalised looks that speak to the wearer’s unique sense of style. Chokers curve in distinctive convex shapes, while asymmetric strands of crystallised stones introduce boldness to delicate designs. Hidden closures and flawless settings heighten the seamless shimmer, allowing light to dance, uninterrupted, across each surface. From spiralling brooches to crystallised earrings, every element celebrates Swarovski’s mastery of cut and clarity, offering a joyful extravagance that feels both effortless and elevated.
“Every element celebrates Swarovski’s mastery of cut and clarity, offering a joyful extravagance that feels both effortless and elevated.”
Heart motifs and the subtle incorporation of Swarovski Crystal Pearls lend a romantic softness, enhancing the Matrix family’s playful yet sophisticated narrative. While, in the Hyperbola collection, a striking juxtaposition of organic and structural forms is captured within sweeping shapes, with crystals that seem to float in mid-air, revealing an unexpected and captivating beauty. Whether worn as a single, sparkling statement, or layered luxuriously for maximum impact, Swarovski embodies a spirit of joyful sophistication, perfect for those who see jewellery not just as an accessory, but as an essential form of self-expression.
When it comes to plant-based eating, there’s a growing local scene dedicated to vegetable-focused fare. Whether you’re a full-time vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian, or dining with someone who fits the aforementioned criteria, these are the best plant-focused eateries in Auckland, from cafes and bakeries to restaurants and bars worth a visit.
Inner-city restaurant East is an entirely vegetarian venture, with 75 percent of the menu dedicated to vegan dishes. A bold concept that was originally brought to life in 2021, thanks to a team of passionate experts, East’s modern Asian menu is a flavourful marvel from start to finish, filled with vibrant and complex pan-Asian dishes that taste as good as they look. And if that all wasn’t enough, recently, East runs Auckland’s first ever vegan Yum Cha service, held every Sunday at the restaurant from 12pm until 3pm. There, diners can delight in all the classic Yum Cha dishes, reimagined with a tasty, plant-based twist.
Having re-opened in a new spot on Dominion Road mid-way through 2023, vegetarian favourite, Forest, is better than ever before. Helmed by clever chef Plabita Florence, this delicious and innovative spot pushes plant-based cuisine beyond your wildest expectations. At Forest, diners will find a more traditionally structured, a la carte menu that marries mainstay dishes with seasonal specials and still plays into Florence’s experimental, exciting and exceptional culinary approach. From entree-sized snacks to larger mains that are designed to share and a number of mouthwatering sides and add-ons, the food offering at Forest is, as expected, a gastronomic journey.
Originally a food truck, Wise Boys has been serving its mouth-watering vegan burgers to the masses since it opened a brick-and-mortar store in Grey Lynn in 2019 and a Commercial Bay outpost a few years later. With a menu of banging burgers featuring the likes of crispy fried ‘chicken’, smoky ‘bacon’ and BBQ jackfruit alongside a range of tempting sides, shakes and soft-serve sundaes, the hardest part is choosing what to order.
Metita, the elegant SkyCity restaurant helmed by Michael Meredith, continues to chart new territory in contemporary Pacific cuisine — pushing the envelope further recently with a fresh focus on plant-based dining. In a move that honours the region’s produce-driven roots, the restaurant now offers a dedicated vegetarian and vegan menu, brimming with vibrant, thoughtful dishes that celebrate both tradition and technique. From the smokey intensity of charred corn tartlets with palusami purée to the umami-rich pairing of grilled oyster mushrooms and ulu, each plate is a lesson in flavour and finesse.
This off-the-beaten-track cafe makes for a cheap and cheerful lunch. Water Drop Vegetarian Cafe is situated in Flat Bush at the impressive Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple, and no walk around the grounds is complete without a steaming laksa, BBQ bun or wonton noodle dish — all meat-free, of course.
Lovers of health and raw foods will appreciate Olivia from Breakfast Babes’ selection of delicious raw treats available online and at select retailers country-wide (including newly-opened boutique fitness studio, Redroom). If you find yourself craving a 3pm, guilt-free pick-me-up, you’ll certainly find a moreish treat sure to satiate your cravings.
A welcome addition to Westmere, Esarn Rocket is a lively Thai eatery serving up bold, homespun flavours with a fresh, contemporary spin. Alongside its crowd-pleasing classics, the menu offers an impressive range of vegetarian and vegan dishes — from crispy spring rolls and green papaya salad to fragrant tofu curries and stir-fries bursting with seasonal veg. Vibrant, affordable, and packed with flavour, Esarn Rocket makes plant-based dining feel anything but an afterthought.
Next time you find yourself in Ellerslie, follow the queue to Richoux Patisserie, the low-key bakery serving award-winning meat and vegan pies. With clever vegan renditions of mince and cheese pies, sausage rolls, doughnuts and custard tarts (to name just a few), this beloved bakery puts the utmost care into every one of its creations.
There’s always a line outside Sandringham’s Paradise, and for good reason. Whether you dine in, takeaway or peruse the buffet, there is plenty to satisfy vegetarian appetites. Choose from delights such as the vege manchurian, which sees dense vegetable dumplings fried and coated in an irresistible sauce, bagarey baigan with eggplant cooked in a tamarind gravy, or wholesome daal tadka with lentils, cumin and red chillies.
With big, bold flavours and a special vegetarian and gluten-free menu to boot, Hello Beasty ticks all our boxes for dining out with dietary requirements. The KFC (Korean fried cauliflower) gives the real deal a run for its money, plus dishes like the grilled mushroom pancake and charred broccolini can easily be tweaked to suit a vegan appetite.
Middle Eastern restaurant Ima has plenty to satiate non-meat-eaters throughout its delicious all-day menu. For lunch, we’d recommend the sabich pita. Described as the ‘king of sandwiches’, it’s filled to the brim with smooth hummus, charred eggplants, slices of fried potatoes, boiled eggs, tahini and amber, a fragrant Iraqi condiment. The vegetarian Middle Eastern platter for two will also hit the spot, comprising falafel, hummus, labneh, salad, pickles, olives, Lebanese cauliflower and spanakopita with pita.
With locations in Ponsonby, the CBD, and Milford, Khu Khu is an entirely vegan Thai restaurant that doesn’t skimp on flavour and finesse. Owner Michael Khuwattanasenee found himself struggling to find plant-based options when dining out, particularly in Asian eateries given their proclivity for not just meat, but also animal-based ingredients like fish and oyster sauces. Khuwattanasenee took matters into his own hands, reinventing the classics to create tempeh pad thai, kumara spring rolls, ‘duck’ drunken noodles and warming curries.
Since opening, the days where this plant-based patisserie hasn’t completely sold out are few and far between. Here the croissants are buttery and flakey, the delicate pastries perfectly made despite being entirely vegan, and the ‘ham’ and ‘cheese’ offering a personal favourite of the Denizen team.
If you’d like to chow down on some meat-free fare alongside a fellow steak-loving diner who wouldn’t be seen near a leaf of spinach, you’re both bound to find something to love at Devonport’s Vondel. The all-day eatery caters to both preferences, with a vegan crispy ‘chicken’ burger sitting next to a Wagyu beef burger on the menu. No need to compromise here.
The original raw, organic, vegan eatery, Little Bird is still going strong. Pop into its humming Ponsonby spot for the likes of the famous Bird Bowl, kimchi pancakes, dahl dosa and kumara hotcakes, or one of its utterly satiating smoothies and shakes — and make sure you don’t leave without a raw sweet treat.
Not only is this inner-city haunt home to some of the city’s most beloved vegan food, it serves up authentic Thai dishes without the addition of fish sauce or shrimp paste. At Sunflower, flavour isn’t compromised either, the joint famously serving up some of the most sought-after ‘prawn’ fried rice in town.
Infamous for its mac and cheese with ham off the bone, Soul Bar & Bistro offers a vegetarian version of this dish as well. In fact, Soul offers a wholly vegetarian menu, filled with meatless renditions of its regular dishes. For vegetarians, the ricotta filled tortelli with sunday sauce and calabrian chilli is too good to miss, while vegans can try an irresistible take on Soul’s ever-popular green goddess salad.
For those in the know (and vegans often are about these things), Jervois Road’s Janken has been touted as one of the best destinations in the country for plant-based foods. Offering a modern slant on traditional Japanese flavours, here the vegan offerings are plentiful, with ramen, sushi, and even a vegan Benedict breakfast.
At SkyCity’s Cassia, those who shy away from meat will find plenty of flavoursome dishes to dive into on Sid Sahrawat’s lauded menu. From the famous pani puri with potato, chickpea, and mint to the stir fry paneer with chickpeas, kumara, and vindaloo sauce, Sahrawat has always been known for the innovative and utterly delicious ways in which he reimagines vegetables on his menus.
For those who want to eat plant-based but still treat themselves, Tart Bakery’s sweet and savoury treats are the pinnacle. With a prime location in Grey Lynn, the bakery’s delicious European-style bread, pasty, pies, doughnuts and sandwiches are made fresh every day and all its food is vegan and free of animal products.
Having only opened its doors recently, Bowler has already become a fixture on Team Denizen’s weekly rotation, and for good reason. Serving nutritious and delicious salad bowls that you’ll actually want to eat, with plenty for both vegetarians and carnivores alike, alongside acai bowls and epic smoothies, this drop-in is well worthy of your attention.
St Kevins Arcade’s beloved Lebanese eatery, Gemmayze Street, is the perfect spot for vegetarians and non vegetarians to come together in culinary bliss, with plentiful options for both. Here, the hummus is famous and an essential order, as is the babaganouj which pairs smokey eggplant with cumin and pomegaranate, and vegetarians shouldn’t look past the jazar roasted carrots with cashew, fennugreek, and spiced granola. Simply sublime.
A meeting of form, function, and feeling, the Terra Basin by sculptor Gidon Bing and Raumform studio is a sculptural piece rooted in the landscapes of Aotearoa. Handcrafted from locally produced vitreous stoneware and offered in four evocative glazes, it blends traditional plaster turning with modern 3D modelling to present a piece that beautifully balances modernity and tradition. Minimal yet expressive, it reflects Raumform’s pursuit of material honesty — and Bing’s quiet mastery, honed in a seaside boatshed and admired the world over.
Terra 380 Round Vessel Basin Manuka from Plumbline
Terra 380 Round Vessel Basin Pumice from Plumbline
As Paris unfurled its gilded salons for Fall 2025 Couture, the runway became a stage for reverie and rebellion in equal measure. This season, the maisons dialled up the emotion — showing craftsmanship not just as spectacle, but as statement. From sculptural silhouettes to whisper-thin sheers, and embroideries so intricate they blurred the line between garment and art, the collections were a testament to the enduring power of couture in a world craving substance. Whether quietly poetic or unapologetically theatrical, this was high fashion with high intention — each stitch stitched with purpose.
Glenn Martens’ couture debut at Maison Margiela was a masterclass in tension—between ruin and refinement, elegance and edge. Set in a shadowy, near-silent salon, the show unfolded like a whispered secret, with veiled models moving through the space as if haunted by history and haunted by beauty.
The silhouettes were deconstructed but deliberate: sharp shoulders softened by frayed hems, spliced coats that merged the codes of biker and bourgeois, organza layered over sculptural tailoring like a barely-there memory. Inside-out seams, visible linings, and distressed finishes weren’t flaws—they were the point.
This was couture with something to say, even if it didn’t shout. A darker, more introspective glamour—quietly radical, immaculately made. It was Margiela, through and through: raw, cerebral, and quietly unforgettable.
Schiaparelli Fall 2025 Couture: Surrealism Rewired
At Schiaparelli, Daniel Roseberry rewrote the rules — again. This season, the designer peeled back the theatrics (just slightly) to reveal a sharper, more refined surrealism, rooted in the house’s archival spirit but tailored for now. Think: reversed tailoring, sculptural silhouettes, and heartbeats — literally — worn at the throat.
Set against a noir-heavy palette, with flashes of blood red and optic white, the collection channelled pre-war Paris elegance through a modern, cerebral lens. Bias-cut gowns skimmed the body with precision, while contoured suiting, exposed back-closures, and trompe-l’œil details offered a wink to Elsa’s legacy. The pièce de résistance? A satin column with a fake torso draped backwards and a rhinestone heart pulsing like performance art.
The front row was equally head-turning — Cardi B cradling a (live) crow, Dua Lipa, Hunter Schafer — adding a charged energy to a show that felt intimate, clever, and quietly confrontational.
Schiaparelli reminded us: couture doesn’t need to scream to be unforgettable. Sometimes, it’s the whisper of fabric, the flip of a hem, or the thrum of a heartbeat that leaves the deepest mark.
Demna’s final couture collection for Balenciaga was less a send-off, more a cinematic epilogue—equal parts restrained and radical. Set against a shadowy backdrop, silhouettes swung between extremes: impossibly voluminous puffers, sculpted suiting worn by bodybuilders and featherweight waifs, and gowns so diaphanous they floated like smoke.
The codes were unmistakably Demna—hyper-tailoring, subversion, and a wink at nostalgia. Kim Kardashian’s headline moment in cream lace and 250 carats of diamonds channelled Elizabeth Taylor with a Balenciaga twist. Elsewhere, feathered opera coats and deconstructed corsetry hinted at Old Hollywood glamour, but warped just enough to keep you off balance.
The front row was equally high-wattage: Naomi Watts and daughter Kai, Lorde, Nicole Kidman, Michelle Yeoh, Cardi B and Katy Perry all in attendance, lending the show the mood of a final act worth witnessing.
This was couture not chasing beauty, but redefining it. Part satire, part sincerity, and all Demna—delivered with gravitas, humour, and an architect’s eye. A fitting farewell to a designer who never played it safe.
Giambattista Valli’s Fall 2025 Couture collection was a romantic whisper with real-world resonance. Shown in the intimacy of his Paris atelier — fresh from being honoured as Officier des Arts et des Lettres — it felt more like a love letter to the craft than a runway show.
Silhouettes floated, pleated and bloomed in his signature ultra-femininity: soft pastels, cloud-like tulle, sculptural bustiers and millefeuille skirts that looked like they might lift off the floor. Each piece was its own fragrant reverie, inspired by florals not just in print but in energy — Valli’s world smelled like roses, felt like silk, and moved like poetry.
But beneath the sugar-spun fantasy was a sharper statement: this wasn’t couture for decoration, but for the intelligent, self-assured woman who wears beauty like armour. No spectacle, no theatrics — just quiet drama, masterful craft, and a subtle celebration of strength.
For its final couture collection before Matthieu Blazy’s highly anticipated arrival, Chanel’s in-house studio delivered a quietly exquisite farewell — rooted in heritage, elevated in tone. Staged in a softly lit salon above the Grand Palais, the setting mirrored the original spirit of 31 rue Cambon: intimate, understated, impeccably Chanel.
The collection paid tribute to Coco’s love of the Scottish countryside — tweed coats in earthy tones, feathered capes, sheepskin bouclé, and mohair suiting all grounded with stompy boots and pastoral polish. But this was no costume drama. The palette was refined: cream, tobacco, forest green, plum. Every detail — an oversize bow, a gold wheat motif, a camellia appliqué — whispered craftsmanship over theatrics.
Eveningwear softened the mood, with frayed tulle skirts, gauzy chiffon blouses, and a finale bride cradling a wheat-sheaf bouquet in place of tradition.
The front row was a study in cool grace: Lorde, Naomi Campbell, Paris Opera étoile Hannah O’Neill, Jennie Kim, and Sofia Coppola each brought their distinct presence — effortless, thoughtful, and unmistakably Chanel.
This was Chanel doing what it does best: quiet confidence, with intention. A closing note, before a new era begins.
Hannah O’Neill
Lorde
Naomi Campbell
Iris van Herpen Fall 2025 Couture: Where Science Meets Surrealism
Iris van Herpen’s Fall 2025 Couture collection is a hypnotic fusion of art, technology, and craftsmanship—pure innovation woven into fabric. This season, the Dutch designer plunges into the interplay between the organic and the engineered, crafting garments that feel like wearable sculptures from another dimension.
Think shimmering 3D-printed textures layered with ethereal organza, delicate lace dissolving into unexpected architectural shapes, and a palette that oscillates between muted earth tones and flashes of electric cobalt. Each piece pulses with movement, as if caught mid-transformation.
Van Herpen’s mastery lies in her refusal to be bound by convention. Instead, she invites us into a future where fashion bends physics—where garments breathe, ripple, and respond. It’s couture reimagined for the curious and the bold.
For those who crave more than just clothes—who seek statements that push boundaries—this collection is a siren call.
Maria Grazia Chiuri returned to her roots for Dior’s Fall 2025 couture show, transforming the gardens of Rome’s Villa Albani Torlonia into an ethereal tableau. The guest list, dressed entirely in white, set the tone for a collection that felt more like a whispered memory than a fashion spectacle.
What followed was a procession of impossibly delicate looks—diaphanous silk gowns, openwork lace, gilded embroidery and trompe-l’œil florals—all in a palette of ivory, sand, and soft gold. Chiuri’s silhouettes held a quiet strength: structured coats softened by flowing hems, sheer layers grounded by precise tailoring.
This was couture as ceremony. A deeply personal ode to Roman elegance and feminine resilience, told through clothes that spoke in soft tones but left a lasting impression. It wasn’t about shock or scale—it was about the emotional weight of restraint, and the kind of craftsmanship that doesn’t shout for attention, but earns it.
And the front row? Just as captivating. Natalie Portman embodied quiet grace in sheer Dior organza, while Rosamund Pike, Alexandra Daddario, Ashley Park, and Han So-hee offered masterclasses in monochrome elegance.
An increasing appetite for the golden days of slow travel is deeply rooted in nostalgia for a bygone era. Gentle journeys aboard exquisitely furnished carriages that traverse picturesque villages and magical vistas are experiencing a long overdue renaissance.
Europe
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Positioned firmly at the top of many travel bucket lists, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is an icon of luxury travel. An heir of the legendary original Orient Express, luxury hoteliers Belmond has expertly revived this historic train, offering more than just a passage through Europe’s breathtaking landscapes, but a portal to an era of unparalleled glamour and romance. Whether it’s a decadent two-night escape or a more leisurely four-night sojourn, imagine gliding through the romantic canals of Venice, the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps, or the charming French countryside, all from the plush comfort of this moving palace.
Cabin Suite
L’OBSERVATOIRE SUITE
GRAND SUITE
“Onboard, time slows, inviting you to savour exquisite cuisine, unwind in luxurious cabins, and lose yourself in the melodies of the grand piano in the bar carriage as night falls.”
From the meticulously restored 1920s carriages, adorned with polished wood and lustrous fabrics, to the bespoke service and the convivial hum of the Champagne bar, every detail celebrates a bygone era of elegance, seamlessly blended with modern comfort.
Dining Room
In-room dining service
Onboard, time slows, inviting you to savour refined cuisine, unwind in luxurious cabins, and lose yourself in the melodies of the grand piano in the bar carriage as night falls. Lean into the experience and pack an exquisite wardrobe, with white tie and gowns seeming appropriate.
A far cry from Japan’s infamous Bullet trains, southern Japan’s Seven Stars train is a luxurious, exclusive locomotive that accommodates just 20 guests. The train’s interior has been meticulously crafted by expert local artisans, from hand-carved beds, bathroom sinks, detailed woodwork, and porcelain dinner plates, affording guests an intimate experience with the very best of Japan’s revered craftsmanship.
“The train travels around Kyushu, stopping at renowned shrines, onsens, porcelain studios, and other cultural attractions, presenting passengers with a truly authentic experience far from typical tourist destinations.”
Deluxe Suite
Traditional Cuisine on board
On board entertainment
The train travels around Kyushu, stopping at renowned shrines, onsens, porcelain studios, and other cultural attractions, presenting passengers with a truly authentic experience far from typical tourist destinations. Perfect for those wanting to be utterly immersed in Japanese nostalgic culture, this is a once-in-a-lifetime, bucket list journey that requires entering a lottery to secure a coveted room on.
Prepare to rediscover the soul of Britain aboard the Britannic Explorer, Belmond’s inaugural first-of-its-kind luxury sleeper train exclusively traversing England and Wales’ diverse and captivating landscapes. Departing from London, choose a three-night immersion into the dramatic coastlines and artistic havens of Cornwall, the breathtaking glacial valleys and shimmering lakes of the Lake District, or Wales’ ancient, myth-laden hills and vibrant culture.
On Board Restaurant
“Within its elegant blue carriages lie 18 exquisite suites, promising an intimate experience blending timeless rail heritage with contemporary British flair.”
On Board Bar
Dedicated Wellness Suite
Entertainment Area
Within its elegant blue carriages lie 18 exquisite suites, promising an intimate experience blending timeless rail heritage with contemporary British flair. Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan crafts seasonal menus inspired by these unique regions, enjoyed in dining cars mirroring the beauty outside, while a botanically-infused bar and dedicated wellness suite enhance the journey.
GRAND SUITE
Curated off-train excursions offer deeper immersion into the UK’s cultural and natural highlights, from Cornish boat tours to Lake District hikes and Welsh historical site tours.
Whether cosied by the fire or sprawled in the sun, there is always occasion for a good book, no matter where the season may take you. Here, we deliver a line-up of recently released, unmissable reads that run the gamut from moving memoirs to gripping novels to escapist reads.
Captivating Reads
Novels to Inspire Escapism
Finding Grace
by Loretta Rothschild
Finding Grace is a poignant debut about resilience, redemption, and the unexpected paths to healing, within which protagonist Honor’s picture-perfect life shatters when a devastating event upends her family’s future — the ramifications of which have a lasting impact.
From the author of American Dirt comes a heart-wrenching novel about three generations of women navigating love, regret, and belonging. As a deadly storm strikes Puerto Rico, a mother races to mend fractured bonds and bring her family back together before it’s too late.
In the high-stakes art world, Enka’s obsession with her brilliant friend Mathilde spirals when a new technology promises to heighten empathy, at a dangerous cost. Immaculate Conception is a chilling exploration of art, identity, and the boundaries of human connection.
In this sharp, funny, and bittersweet novel, 41-year-old Sarah, once a wild party girl, embarks on a whisky-fuelled road trip across Scotland with her sister. As past obsessions and teenage dreams resurface, she navigates midlife, nostalgia, and the search for something more.
A killer seeking revenge. A vigilante targeting a feminist icon. As Holly Gibney investigates two chilling cases — one a cryptic mass murder threat, the other a rising stalker — these twisted narratives collide in King’s gripping new tale of justice, obsession, and deadly reckoning.
In Bitter Sweet, a young book publicist embarks on a magnetic affair with her literary idol — only to discover how power, desire, and disillusionment can entwine. Set in London’s publishing world, this emotionally charged debut explores ambition, vulnerability, and the high cost of loving the wrong person.
Set against the backdrop of NASA’s 1980 Space Shuttle program, this gripping novel follows a physicist as she pursues her dream of spaceflight. Amid intense training, unexpected love, and deep friendships, one fateful mission forces her to confront the limits of ambition.
In a rainy Connecticut town, Hai, on the brink of despair, is saved by Grazina, an elderly widow battling dementia. Their unlikely bond becomes a journey of healing, survival, and profound love, exploring the transformative power of second chances and chosen family.
A gripping novel of love, ambition, and second chances, Ordinary Love follows Emily as she reconnects with her former best friend and first love, Gen. Torn between desire and duty, Emily must decide if risking everything is worth rekindling a once-lost romance.
Tour de force of cultural criticism Sophie Gilbert explores how pop culture distorted feminism, turning a generation of women against themselves. Through sharp analysis, she reveals how hyper-objectification and internet culture reshaped societal attitudes, with lasting consequences that impact us all.
With her signature warmth and scientific clarity, Dr Libby’s Fix Iron First is a vital wake-up call to one of health’s most overlooked culprits. Insightful, compassionate, and deeply practical, it reframes iron as a foundation for energy, clarity, and lasting wellbeing.
Author Geoff Dyer’s memoir paints a vivid portrait of his working-class childhood in postwar England, exploring the pivotal moment that shaped his future. Through humour and reflection, Homework traces his journey from school misadventures to a blossoming love of literature and life.
A deeply moving testament to resilience, Notes to John offers an intimate glimpse into Joan Didion’s private reflections during a turbulent time. With her signature precision and clarity, she chronicles therapy sessions in notes meant for her husband, revealing a raw, questioning, yet courageous voice amid profound personal reckoning.
Restaurateur Keith McNally’s memoir is witty, candid, and unexpectedly poignant, tracing his journey from a rough London childhood to shaping New York’s dining scene with Balthazar and Pastis. Through humour and sharp insight, he reflects on fame, family, reinvention, and resilience after a life-altering stroke.
John & Paul is a fresh, emotionally rich portrait of Lennon and McCartney’s complex bond — part friendship, part rivalry, all genius. Tracing their creative highs and personal fractures, Ian Leslie explores how two young visionaries reshaped music — and each other — through collaboration, conflict, and an enduring musical dialogue.
For Auckland’s most discerning car enthusiasts, a new era has arrived — a private enclave where luxury, classic, and race vehicles find their home. Matchbox is an invitation-only sanctuary designed for those who demand more than simply storage.
For the true automotive aficionado, a car is more than just a mode of transport — it’s an extension of identity, a piece of history, a work of art. Enter Matchbox, New Zealand’s first members-only premium car storage facility, where the passion for luxury, classic, and race vehicles is both safeguarded and celebrated. The brainchild of Mark Francis and Zlatko Filipchich, the concept has been years in the making. “Feedback from our immediate network has been overwhelming — we just hope we can provide a space for them all.” says Francis.
Left to right: Zlatko Filipchich, Mayor Wayne Brown & Mark Francis
Designed to be more than just a storage space, Matchbox is a meticulously curated environment that offers state-of-the-art security, climate-controlled conditions, and discreet access. Advanced surveillance ensures your vehicle is always protected, while optimal temperature and humidity settings preserve the integrity of paintwork, leather, and mechanical components. Located just 500 metres from the motorway, and a short drive from both Auckland Airport and the CBD, it is the perfectlocation for those seeking both securityand convenience.
Going beyond storage, Matchbox provides a seamless experience with an on-site valet and concierge service, WOF checks, registration renewals, detailing, or full-scale restoration, a dedicated team of specialists is on hand to maintain your vehicle to the highest standard, ensuring your car is ready to go whenever, and wherever you are.
But at its core, Matchbox is a lifestyle, not just a facility. Members gain access to an exclusive lounge, private lockers and an event space, fostering a community where like-minded enthusiasts can connect. A comprehensive automotive library adds to the experience, offering a curated selection of books and magazines dedicated to motoring excellence, while regular member events, exclusive networking opportunities, and curated driving experiences further enhance the sense of camaraderie. As Matchbox co-founder Mark Francis puts it, “Car enthusiasts are a breed, a like-minded tribe, and this space caters to their every need.” This is not just a place to store cars — it’s a club where passion, expertise, and a shared love for motoring create lasting connections.
If you’re heading south to Queenstown this winter, you likely have plans to hit the slopes, but there are plenty of other worthy pursuits to further your journey of discovery into this ultimate winter wonderland. From sky gazing to e-bike trails to thrill-seeking adventures, we round up a few of the off-piste activities worthy of your attention.
Aurora Australis
A wintertime highlight that very few have the luck of experiencing. During the months of April through to September, the electromagnetic phenomenon known as the Southern Lights puts on a spectacular display in the night skies. Best seen from a high vantage point and looking south, the atmospheric show can be seen in the early morning (many of the recent displays have been between 4am and 6am) on a clear night, typically during the waning (darker) phases of the moon. Get updates from a local group of Aurora enthusiasts by following the Queenstown Aurora Australis Facebook group.
Oxbow Adventures
Set amid the spectacular backdrop of Nevis Bluff in Gibbston Valley, Oxbow offers an unforgettable day of adventure like no other. Upon the banks of the Clutha River, land owners Lloyd and Julz Ferguson have set up the ultimate thrill-seeker’s playground on their expansive farm, with the idea of creating an unmatched experience that inspires fun, adventure, and camaraderie among friends and family. Offering a full day of activities including jet sprinting around a purpose-built lake, clay target shooting, and ultimate off-roading vehicles, Oxbow is the adrenaline junkie’s paradise.
For another great friends and family adventure among beautiful scenery, head into Arrowtown to one of the many bike rental shops, and saddle up on an e-bike for a picturesque peddle through the Gibbston Valley. The e-bikes take away any need for serious exertion, allowing you to take time to marvel at the beauty as you bike alongside the Arrow River. Traverse swing bridges, ride past vineyards and through valleys, to your final destination— Gibbston Valley Winery, or the Gibbston Tavern. After a gentle one hour ride, settle in for a well deserved lunch and a glass or two of the region’s finest wines. Then simply call to have your bikes and yourselves transported back to Arrowtown.
Offering a raft of intrepid day-trips including heliskiing and guided hikes, as well as scenic flights over some of Central Otago’s most exquisite landscapes — including the Milford Sound, Fiordland, Dusky Sound and the Mt. Aspiring glaciers — Alpine Helicopters are the experts to turn to if you want to get out of Queenstown and immerse yourself in the surrounding areas.
Embark on a half-day adventure through Mt. Aspiring National Park with the Wilderness Jet. An exhilarating ride that will see you take in breathtaking scenery along glacial rivers, you’ll also learn about the Māori legends attached to the landscape, and be given the opportunity, when the boat moors up, to explore the ancient beech tree forests on foot.
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