As we leave what has been a lovely summer behind, we move into autumn with a sense, not of pessimism for the colder months ahead, but of promise, for what possibilities the middle of the year holds. In our highly-anticipated autumn issue, this idea of changing perspective and of being inspired comes through in the fascinating people we have interviewed — from our cover star, New York-based Kiwi artist Natasha Wright, whose métier has long focused on the female form, and whose star continues to rise in the highly-competitive New York art scene, to actor and director Rachel House, known for her impactful roles in some of the best films of our time, to a line-up of influential characters in local hospitality, who talk about how they have forged fruitful careers in what can be a misunderstood industry.
Elsewhere, we delve into the latest and greatest trends in fashion and design that you need to know for autumn, explore the iconic work of the Bouroullec brothers via their most recognisable furniture pieces, and speak with renowned designer Christopher Esber about his almost-15-year journey in fashion and what lies ahead.
In our Wellbeing section, alongside the new products and buzzwords you need to know about, we speak with Lukis Mac and Hellè Weston, a Kiwi couple, based in Los Angeles where they work with some of Hollywood’s biggest names and are spearheading an international breathwork movement via their company Owaken.
For escapism over the autumn months, look no further than our culture section, where we explore the best books, series, films and more to consume as the weather cools down. Or, for a more literal escapism, take inspiration from our Editor-in-chief, who surprised her family with a trip to one of Fiji’s most exclusive and exquisite destinations — Kokomo Private Island — and writes about her experience here.
All of that and so much more is to be found in the pages of our latest issue, out in all good newsagents and supermarkets now.
However you celebrate Easter, there’s no denying the joy of finding a delicious treat to enjoy. Like all great egg hunts, Denizen has set out to find the most enticing examples that can be devoured come Easter weekend.
Luna Bakehouse
Holiday cruffins courtesy of Luna Bakehouse
To celebrate Easter the sweetest way, the incredible talents at Newmarket’s Luna Bakehouse have taken their most famous delicacy and given it a holiday twist. The Easter Biscoff Cruffins (also available in Nutella and Classic Buttercream) are perfectly flaky and not too sickly, with a delicious dollop of the much-loved spread on top — the perfect addition to a delicious cruffin.
Easter-themed cookie kits at Amano bakery
We can’t conceive a better way to keep the kids busy this Easter than with Amano Bakery’s delicious and inventive cookie decorating kits. With everything you need for bespoke creations (and all that you need to keep well-satiated whilst crafting), each kit includes mixed shape cookies and icing in piping bags, plus marshmallow eggs, chocolate cross buns, and varlhona hot chocolate bunnies and carrots to snack on. There’s only one thing for it — place your order before they’re gone.
Devonport Chocolates
Devonport Chocolates’ handcrafted festive treats
Not only is one of the City’s top chocolate purveyors offering an extensive range of delectable Easter treats (with something for everyone — from bunnies for the kids to artful eggs, chocolate boxes and gift sets for even the most discerning chocolate eaters), but this year, there’s a personalised offering available, with keepsake, named ribbons adorning the necks of their coveted, handcrafted bunnies. Get in quick before they sell out.
Honest Chocolat’s painted, edible eggs
If you like your Easter treats to have an arty and artisanal touch, look no further than the Honest Chocolat boutique at Commercial Bay. Limited-edition creations for this year’s collection are all made to honour the planet and its natural beauty. The Volcano egg sees layer of hazelnut praline and popping candy sandwiched between the thick milk chocolate shell, with an interpretive painting of flowing lava on the outside. The Acorn egg is made with velvety milk chocolate and hand-sculpted to look like its namesake, with pieces of apple and vanilla fruit jelly hidden inside.
Left: La Petite Fourchette. Right: Colestone
La Petite Fourchette’s smashing chocolate egg
French patisserie La Petite Fourchette & sister bakery Copain are creating a bit of drama this Easter, with their delectable Chocolate Smash Eggs. Theaw large creations are dusted with gold, and come with a wooden hammer so you can break your way to the treats inside. These include mixed cookies, dark chocolate bonbons, and melt-in-the-mouth white chocolate bonbons. There’s also bunnies on offer, as well as easter sable biscuits in all manner of sweet designs, which can be bought individually.
Colestone’s Easter-themed range
This Easter, Colestone in Remuera has pulled out all of the stops, crafting an extensive range that promises something for every chocolate aficionado. The medium-sized solid eggs are our pick — beautifully adorned with intricate speckles and swirls, but the marshmallow and praline iterations are highly sought after, and the large scale eggs (available in either milk or dark) are guaranteed to impress.
Atelier Shu
Atelier Shu’s thoughtfully-crafted Easter treats
The beautiful, serene bakery that is Atelier Shu (now located in Newmarket) has just unveiled its Easter range for 2024, and it’s as covetable as you’d expect. An uber cute, colourful array of treats are on offer, from handmade macarons adorned in all manner of Easter-themed designs (including bunnies, chickens, speckled eggs and more) to handmade cakes (the Little Chick with coconut mousse, lime curd and pineapple confit on an almond base is divine) eggs, and meringues perfect for creating a festive table setting.
Left: The Pantry. Right: House of Chocolate
House of Chocolate’s newest additions
For egg aficionados, the Chocolatier bunnies at House of Chocolate have been busy taste testing and trialling the very best Easter eggs for this year. This year, the full Easter range has something for every discerning palette — from adorable bunny shaped goodies to perfectly painted eggs hiding delightful surprises. The delectable flavours span crunchy hazelnut, creamy caramel, sweet fairy sprinkles and more, and come in an array of sizes and pairings. This year, our pick is the hand-poured ruby white chocolate egg — a delicious celebration of sweet and fruity flavours.
The Pantry at Park Hyatt’s new creations
There is something delicious for every occasion at The Pantry at Park Hyatt, and as we near Good Friday, Executive Pastry Chef Callum Liddicoat and his team have gone above and beyond to create a curated edit of utterly delicious and entirely inventive Easter treats. From an incredible take on a hot cross bun (crossed with a custard donut…) to modern interpretations of the classic crème egg, a stunningly adorned white chocolate yuzu iteration, and more, here you’ll find something guaranteed to impress this Easter.
Allpress Coffee x Bennetts of Mangawhai
Allpress Coffee x Bennetts of Mangawhai eggs
Always the independent, Allpress has teamed up with local chocolate house Bennetts of Mangawhai for its limited-edition, coffee-spiked chocolate Easter eggs. Extremely popular, this re-release for 2024 is made with fresh, roasted Allpress and hand-poured in Mangawhai, north of Auckland. Each carton contains three Flat White eggs and three Espresso eggs flavours, packaged in a novel and fully recyclable carton. They’re available to shop at Farro Fresh.
Miann’s Easter range
As well as its highly anticipated hot cross buns and Easter-themed macarons, the chocolate masters at Miann have introduced a delightful range of Easter eggs, including a Craft White Chocolate paired with the iconic freeze dried mandarin from Fresh As. While Miann treats are always striking, the 1.8kg eggs — available in milk, dark and caramelised white chocolate, are a true sight to behold. There are also decadent Easter bunny and Easter egg cakes, plus festive gingerbread in the cabinets for your perusal.
Inspired by ideas of landscapes and capturing natural beauty, The Rug Company’s Supertextures collection is an ode to timeless tactility. Crafted from undyed New Zealand wool, each rug tells a story through its intricate design where geometric motifs shine against a backdrop of fluffy cut-pile and flatweave techniques. Here, each rug boasts a tile-like effect, reminiscent of ancient mosaics, which makes the collection feel both untethered to contemporary trends and perfect for the modern home.
Available exclusively from Design Central, the Supertextures collection marries luxury with sustainability, and craftsmanship with contemporary design. If you’ve been looking for a way to warm up your home for the coming seasons, look no further than one of these exquisite pieces.
Given that Auckland is known as the ‘City of Sails’, it’s hardly surprising that Viaduct Harbour, our vibrant and bustling waterfront precinct, sits at the heart of our urban landscape. A testament to the City’s longstanding affinity with maritime culture, Viaduct Harbour has evolved over the past 30 years, from a practical gateway for seafarers to a dynamic and diverse hub of culinary delights, luxurious accommodations, captivating events, thriving businesses, full-time residences, and more, and the offering just keeps getting better.
Left: Beasty sashimi from Hello Beasty. Right: Soul Bar & Bistro
Bivacco
Central to Viaduct Harbour’s allure is its thriving dining scene, a line-up of restaurants, eateries and bars that cater to every kind of palate, whether you’re seeking a sophisticated dinner out, after-work drinks with colleagues, a celebration with friends or a quick, easy bite. From the iconic stalwart Soul Bar & Bistro (and its sprawling, sun-drenched terrace) where culinary excellence meets waterfront elegance, to the flavoursome Asian-fusion fare of Hello Beasty, to the contemporary Italian offering at Bivacco (not to mention its incredible, wrap-around corner site) and the refined ambiance of Park Hyatt’s Onemata, Viaduct Harbour promises unforgettable dining experiences for any occasion.
Beyond its culinary delights, this precinct also gives Auckland’s residents and visitors access to the pristine waters of the Waitematā Harbour and Hauraki Gulf. Boasting its own marina that bustles with activity, Viaduct Harbour offers daily adventures via charter boats to those who want to explore Auckland’s stunning coastline from a unique perspective. Whether it be via a leisurely cruise or an exhilarating sailing excursion, visitors can find a quintessential ‘City of Sails’ experience to suit their desires. Those seeking a more intimate voyage can arrange a private luxury charter, where the day will be entirely tailored to individual preferences, ensuring an unparalleled glimpse of the Gulf at its best.
Left: Sofitel Spa. Right: Park Hyatt
QT Auckland
Complementing its maritime allure, Viaduct Harbour’s curated offering of luxury accommodation speaks to the welcoming hospitality this precinct has become known for. At the QT Auckland, for instance, discover a chic, urban oasis where luxurious rooms await and incredible dining experiences can be found in its ground-level restaurant, Esther. Over at The Sofitel, timeless elegance permeates every corner, while the Sofitel Spa provides a sanctuary and escape from the bustle of the city. Similarly, Park Hyatt is the perfect place to book for a waterfront getaway, offering generous rooms and acclaimed dining.
But Viaduct Harbour’s appeal extends beyond its culinary and maritime offerings, where the precinct has, in recent years, embraced a burgeoning art scene that adds a layer of cultural richness to its landscape. From Jeppe Hein’s mesmerising Long Modified Bench in Waitematā Plaza to Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei) and LandLAB’s striking Te Mata Topaki lookout structure, the precinct is adorned with captivating works of art that invite contemplation and discovery. Phil Price’s Cytoplasm sculpture stands as a testament to the intersection of art and innovation, offering visitors a glimpse into the creative spirit that animates Viaduct Harbour’s vibrant community.
Te Mata Topaki lookout structure
From its cuisine to its accommodation to the incredible access it offers to the Gulf, Viaduct Harbour really is the ultimate waterfront precinct, where connections are forged, and world-class experiences abound. Whether you choose to dine while overlooking panoramic views of the water, embark on a maritime adventure, or immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of its art scene, Viaduct Harbour is a rich representation of the best of Auckland’s waterfront lifestyle. With its irresistible blend of luxury, convenience and natural beauty, it is a place in which locals feel right at home, and visitors can embark on journeys of exploration and discovery. It’s ongoing evolution continues to prove how Auckland’s Viaduct waterfront is truly one of the best in the world.
Sitting pretty at one of Auckland’s most iconic addresses, 131 Queen Street is a masterfully transformed commercial office building offering an unparalleled working environment, a vibrant hospitality precinct, and Andrew Krukziener’s magic touch.
Here, a sense of elegant grandeur prevails — perfectly befitting its heritage address. In fact, the building was originally home to one of the country’s finest department stores, Milne & Choyce, who traded successfully from the site for over 70 years. The cutting-edge structural design featured mushroom headed octagonal columns which provided minimal intrusions into the trading floor and a fully glazed store front.
131 Queen Street
Since the 1840s, Queen Street has long been Auckland’s centre point, connecting the harbour with the CBD, offering a vibrant arts precinct, and housing the City’s most striking heritage buildings. It’s this last fact that captured the attention of Andrew Krukziener, with the visionary developer adding another Queen Street heritage site to his incredibly impressive oeuvre — furthering his ambitious reimagining of the historic street. Over the past decade, this vibrant and centrally-located end of Queen Street has seen a complete transformation — with many of the world’s most renowned luxury brands finding a home amongst the character buildings.
Simply named for its address, 131 Queen Street is a luxurious city office development set in one of the City’s most character-filled heritage buildings, boasting what is arguably the most striking lobby in the Auckland. The opulent touches and historic architecture speak to the rich history of the 1924 building, while Krukziener’s reimagining of the space ushers it into the modern day.
Left: Restored original elevators. Right: Andrew Krukziener
Here, the architecture is enriched by ornate, sculptural detailing — from grand columns to steel arched windows and Art Deco motifs, animated by refined materials and textures. The building’s 4.2-metre ceilings, European wide board oak flooring and expansive windows make for an exceptional foundation, while its elegant yet relaxed feel makes for a more than perfect working environment.
Labelling Krukziener as a visionary feels fitting, given his incredible foresight when it comes to development, and the part he’s played in progressing Auckland’s built environment. Responsible for the purchase and development of over 130 residential and commercial buildings throughout Auckland over the last 38 years, with projects totalling more than NZ$1.5 billion, the developer pays special heed to the preservation of historical buildings through discerning renovation. He has restored and redeveloped many recognised landmarks in Auckland City including the Old Magistrates Court Building at The Metropolis, the Contemporary Art Gallery on Lorne Steet and DFS Galleria on Customs Street. These days, the revitalisation of Queen Street is where Krukziener’s attention is turned, with 131 Queen Street raising the bar.
The entrance lobby.
When approaching the ten-story heritage building, Krukziener looked to the iconic Art Deco architecture of New York for inspiration to craft a design narrative that pays homage to the site’s history while bringing it into the present.
The Office Lobby is where Krukziener was able to evoke the grandeur of the 1920’s — marble, macassar ebony and bronze have been artfully crafted alongside custom-designed chandeliers and wall sconces. The original bronze elevator signage was even uncovered during the works and repositioned to the office lobby. Whilst creating impeccably detailed interiors is the element of the project Krukziener most enjoyed, the first step was a hefty seismic upgrade. Strengthening the building to 100 percent New Building Standard (NBS) from the foundations to the roof was achieved with the installation of post tension steel bars imported from the United Kingdom, paired with new sheer walls and GRP wrapping of the columns. Seismic engineer, Ioannis Prionas of Tekton Consulting Engineers worked alongside Krukziener to minimise the intrusion of the new elements — so successful was he, that the new steel bars look as if they have supported the building for the past century. The heritage elements including the intricate plaster and steel facade were preserved, the canopy restored to its original design and new custom-designed features were created by craftsmen in Auckland from bronze, plaster, timber and stone.
131 Office Space
In the offices there is a symphony between modern technology and striking character features. A new air conditioning plant was designed to provide state of the art control to tenants — but it’s the bathrooms, clad with the deepest green marble and fitted with traditional tapware and fixtures, together with octagonal mirrors and bronze door hardware that are the most commented on.
The lower-level floor plates have been divided to create offices ranging in size from 150 square-metres to 400 square-metres. The lofty stud height and expansive windows flood the spaces with natural light.
The National Business Review followed Krukziener when he decided to move his offices to 131 Queen Street — the two businesses have been neighbours since 2009, with professional service companies Accenture and Cyber CX also both leasing full floors on the upper levels of the building, joining boutique investment bank Montarne and Five V Capital. The top two levels — the finest character spaces in Auckland, are available for lease, both boasting private terraces overlooking Queen Street towards Albert Park and the harbour.
Left: Entrance lobby details. Right: View from 131 Queen Street
The Ground Level will house luxury retail and on Level One a food and beverage destination is being created, starting with a sophisticated whiskey bar to be run by the team behind The Jefferson. Award-winning hospitality designers, Izzard Design are responsible for transforming Level One into a culinary meeting place. Drawing inspiration from global metropolises where city centres are vibrant hubs of activity around the clock, here you’ll find a diverse mix of elevated eateries as well as a boutique, luxury tearoom, offering both tenants and central city visitors a taste of New Zealand in an entirely unique setting.
131 Queen Street sits as a beacon of style offering businesses an exceptional base right in the very heart of the City. The combination of innovation, sophistication, and entrepreneurship that Krukziener has employed in his latest project is just what our city centre needs to usher in the new era of downtown Auckland.
To secure one of the few remaining luxury office spaces at 131 Queen Street contact Ollie Mawson on 021 740 031.
Britomart favourite Bar Non Solo has recently relaunched their workday lunch special, making it the ultimate spot for those seeking a mid-day escape. As we all know, stepping away from the daily grind is vital to boost productivity and creativity, and what better way to unwind than with a delicious meal accompanied by refreshing libations?
Right: Spicy Salami Pizza
From Tuesday to Friday, Bar Non Solo has introduced an unbeatable lunch special, featuring one of their famous dishes alongside a choice of wine, beer or spritz, all for a mere $25. Ideal for those seeking a quick yet satisfying meal during their hectic workday, this express lunch deal is as suited for a quick catch-up amongst friends as it is for sharing with colleagues.
Here, you can take your pick from a variety of handmade pasta, seasonal pizzas, and salads, paired perfectly with an ice-cold Peroni, Aperol Spritz, a glass of Idle Hands wine, or a signature mocktail. Savour fresh Bucatini with crab, chilli, garlic, oregano, and pangrattato, Spicy Salami Pizza with tomato and fior di latte, or Bar Non Solo’s signature Caesar Salad with white anchovies. With many more delicious dishes to choose from.
Left: Crab Bucatini
And the lunch special is only the tip of the iceberg. Bar Non Solo has added a host of new menu items, launched a member’s club, and added to their aperitivo hour offering, making it the ultimate spot for City-siders seeking an all-encompassing local.
Head-to-toe, monochrome tones of white and cream will not only create crisp, confident looks but will add a touch of lightness to your style as we head into the cooler months. Here, we have rounded up a curation of ready-to-wear, shoes and accessories that will have you mastering this season’s modern monochrome, and promise to give your autumn wardrobe a necessary lift.
In sixteen years Denizen has established itself as the leading destination for those looking for a fix on the art of living well locally. We pride ourselves on producing unique, intelligent content that focuses on the positive, and keeps our vast audience of taste-making New Zealanders satiated and entertained.
We are currently looking for an experienced full-time, in-house writer who can produce a wide range of work — from short, sharp, witty dialogue for our website at a rapid-fire pace, to executing long form in-depth articles on a variety of topics for our quarterly magazine. The suitable candidates need to have an utter obsession with the finer things in life, living and breathing the content that we feature, and possess an understanding and affinity with luxury brands.
Applicant’s interests should be broad and include food, fashion, design, culture, travel and architecture, along with an unwavering desire to create engaging content, and seek out new undiscovered stories. The successful full-time writer will form part of an incredibly passionate and committed team who work hard, but also regularly enjoy the fruits of their labour by dabbling in the art of living well.
Applicants must have a tertiary qualification in the field of journalism or communications, with a minimum of two years working in a role that has a strong writing focus.
The most significant night in cinema has been and gone for another year, leaving us with plenty of unforgettable fashion moments to mull over. As the biggest stars in the world lined up on the Oscars’ red carpet, it was clear that the style code for the event was old Hollywood elegance with a modern and ever-so-slightly undone edge. Silhouettes were figure-hugging, colours were used to striking effect, hair was sleek and understated, opera gloves were back in a big way, and black-and-white, it seemed, was the colour-combination du jour.
From Emma Stone’s flattering, ice-blue peplum dress by Louis Vuitton, to Emily Blunt’s striking Schiaparelli gown with surreal, floating shoulder straps, to Carey Mulligan’s custom, couture Balenciaga (a recreation of an iconic 1951 design by Cristobal Balenciaga himself), the looks at this year’s Oscars were thoughtful, glamorous, statement-making and bold. These were our favourites.
While there are plenty of ways to update your interior space, from pendant lighting to soft textiles, one of the easiest ways is with some strategically-applied furnishings. Here, we delve into the trend of curved dining chairs, a style that promises to bring an air of soft serenity to any kind of space. Whether finished in a minimalist or modernist, or even wonderfully eclectic style, not only do these chairs look good but their rounded backs are so comfortable, you’ll want to linger long after the last plates have been cleared. Discover our essential edit of curved dining chairs below.
For more exclusive access to what the city has to offer, engaging content, excellent imagery and thought provoking commentary on the life that surrounds you, subscribe to Denizen magazine now.
