Cassia’s Biryani Thursdays are the ultimate mid-week feast

There are few dishes as iconic or comforting as a perfectly prepared biryani. At Cassia, award-winning chef Sid Sahrawat gives this Indian classic his own contemporary twist with Biryani Thursdays, a weekly ritual designed for sharing. For $49, guests can enjoy chicken biryani served in a traditional clay pot, paired with a choice of three sides. The portion is generous enough for two, making it an ideal midweek date or a flavoursome dinner with a friend.

Available exclusively on Thursdays from 5 – 9.30pm, the dish requires 48 hours’ pre-order — a nod to both the craft and patience behind biryani itself. Expect tender chicken, spiced rice, and layers of flavour that reflect Sahrawat’s signature approach: marrying the traditional recipes of his Indian upbringing with contemporary flair and local New Zealand ingredients.

Since opening, Cassia has carved out a reputation as one of Auckland’s most innovative dining destinations, celebrated for its ability to reimagine Indian cuisine while remaining authentic to its roots. Biryani Thursdays continue that story, offering guests the chance to slow down and experience one of India’s most loved dishes, imagined through a modern lens.

Spaces are limited, so plan ahead, and let Thursday nights at Cassia become your new culinary ritual.

skycityauckland.co.nz/restaurants/cassia

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The best of Milan Fashion Week SS ’26

Milan Fashion Week SS ’26 was alive with an energy that felt unmatched in recent memory; this was the most exciting fashion week we’ve seen in a long time (thanks, in large part, to the debutants). Gone, it seems, are the days of formulaic design, monochromatic palettes, and cookie-cutter collections — Milan signalled a return to a distinct voice and vision.

Prada set the tone with sharp tailoring and a killer palette, softened by fluid, almost poetic silhouettes with an edge, while Fendi leaned into craftsmanship (and the swinging 60s), layering texture and unexpected cuts with a playful edge. At Bottega, under the fresh vision of Louise Trotter, bold, sculptural leather stood took centre stage, reaffirming the House’s largely unrivalled mastery of tactile luxury.

Elsewhere, Dolce & Gabbana returned to unapologetic sensuality, celebrating body and form with lace, structural yet sexy silhouettes, and a distinctly laid-back luxe sensibility, while Versace embraced a punchy futurism with high-shine finishes and power shapes that looked destined for after dark.

Max Mara brought the calm counterpoint — elegant restraint through sleek suiting and buttery neutrals that reaffirmed its timeless appeal. Together, the season felt like a reset: houses reclaiming their heritage while fearlessly stepping into the a bold new chapter.

Spring 2026 Ready-To-Wear
Prada

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Spring 2026 Ready-To-Wear
Fendi

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Spring 2026 Ready-To-Wear
Bottega Veneta

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Spring 2026 Ready-To-Wear
Dolce & Gabbana

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Spring 2026 Ready-To-Wear
Versace

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Spring 2026 Ready-To-Wear
Max Mara

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Coveted

The jewellery designed for movement, ease and everyday elegance
Van Cleef & Arpels’ Fascinating Egypt: Inside one of high jewellery’s most anticipated annual events
Gucci’s transports us to Monte Carlo with a dreamy European summer escapade

Shop the boho-inspired bags we’re currently coveting

The latest, elevated take on the boho bag gives the free-spirited staple a sophisticated upgrade. From classic Chloé to slouchy suede from The Row, these are the season’s must-haves — any of which would make the perfect request from Santa.

Side Trunk
MM from Louis Vuitton
Alaïa Le Click bag from MyTheresa
Chloé Embellished suede shoulder bag from Net-A-Porter

Saint Laurent Y tote in suede from MyTheresa
Khaite Sara tote bag from MyTheresa
Loewe Paula’s Ibiza Pebble suede tote from Net-A-Porter 

Valentino Nellcôte bag from FWRD
Jackie 1961 Wicker bag from Gucci
The Row small Bindle from FWRD

Coveted

The jewellery designed for movement, ease and everyday elegance
Van Cleef & Arpels’ Fascinating Egypt: Inside one of high jewellery’s most anticipated annual events
Gucci’s transports us to Monte Carlo with a dreamy European summer escapade
Reform Studio

We chat to Reform’s Auckland owners about the studios’ unique take on reformer Pilates

Reform has redefined reformer Pilates with a method rooted in innovative programming, functional movement, and genuine inclusivity. With multiple studios up and down the country and a loyal following, the Reform approach is simple: train for real life.

“We don’t take ourselves too seriously,” say Reform’s Auckland franchise owners, “but we are serious about how we move.” Every class is defined by intent, variety, and challenge. “At Reform, our classes are designed to promote better movement, not just in the studio, but in real life.” Whether it’s a stronger golf swing, gardening without pain, lifting kids with confidence, or simply moving through daily life with more ease, “We train for what matters most outside of class.”

Clients return for the depth of benefit they feel, even if they can’t always name it. “Our movement protocols work in layers, creating impact far beyond the obvious.” Every class leaves you a more efficient mover, and over time that compounds into an addictive reward system. The sessions are challenging, so you leave knowing there’s more to strive for. The most common feedback? People simply feel better. “We share incredible client stories — and while we’re not front-line responders, we know we advocate for both longer life expectancy and better life fulfilment.”

Each class follows a proven protocol: warm-up, ramp-up, and grounding finish. “Across this, we train the full spectrum of movement — postural control, balance, deceleration, pushing, pulling, reaching, bending, and responding to load — leaving the body energised, not exhausted,” they say.

Rooted in reformer Pilates, Reform blends the latest science with conventional strength protocols. No gimmicks, no trends, just intelligent programming, functional strength, and a deep respect for how real bodies move through real life. “The challenge is always optional — a tool, not a test — and we celebrate those who move best for their ability, not just the best in the room.”

reformfitness.co.nz

Wellbeing

Is the 20,000-step day actually worth it in 2026?
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Resene is making a strong case for nostalgia this season — here’s how to harness the trend

In the world of interiors, contrast is everything, and this season, the high-impact pairing of soft baby blue with striking red is reasserting itself as the colour story to watch.

Togo small settee from Ligne Roset, Byron Bay book from Ligne Roset, Chronicle coffee table from Tim Webber, Spotlight table lamp from Tim Webber, Calcada rug in hazelnut from Designer Rugs

Once associated with traditional Americana, the blue-and-red combination is now enjoying a thoroughly modern makeover — one that plays with tone, proportion, and texture to evoke elegance, energy, and effortless sophistication. In this new palette, cool, powdery blues dominate the space, setting a serene, expansive base. Think Resene’s Time Out or Breathless — soft yet grounded hues that offer calm and neutrality with just a hint of nostalgic charm. Against this, accents in pops of red appear like punctuation marks, delivering welcome moments of visual tension.

Chronicle coffee table from Tim Webber, Lema modular sofa from Tim Webber, Calcada rug in hazelnut from Designer Rugs, Dedali vase by Ferm Living from Slow Store, Byron Bay book from Ligne Roset and Louis Vuitton book from Ligne Roset

From crimson to coral, even the smallest touch of Resene’s Smashing, Tall Poppy, or Red Hot can shift the mood. It’s all about balance — let the blue breathe across walls and key upholstery, and use red with intention to bring dynamism and depth. Brass detailing and cream or ivory-toned neutrals add warmth and elegance, preventing the scheme from veering too severe.

Together, this duo proves that opposites not only attract, but harmonise. Whether you’re drawn to coastal calm or postmodern cool, Resene’s carefully curated palette makes it easy to tailor this colour story to your style. 

Colours To Try


Resene Tall poppy, Resene Time out, Resene Half pearl lusta

resene.co.nz

Design

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Walker & Hall Panorama collection

For new mums, Walker & Hall’s sentiment-rich pieces are the ultimate gift

Moments that change everything deserve a gift worth equal weight, and Walker & Hall’s sentiment-rich pieces mark those life-altering beginnings with meaning.

Few milestones hold the magic and magnitude of becoming a mother. It’s a chapter that redefines life — from the exhilarating early days to the triumphs and tender moments of the first year, through to every Mother’s Day and beyond. Walker & Hall knows this implicitly (126 years of helping people mark life’s greatest moments will do that), curating timeless, sentiment-rich pieces that honour the extraordinary role of mum and live on as family treasures.

Walker & Hall Panorama rings

Think keepsakes she’ll wear daily — refined diamond studs, a timeless tennis bracelet, or a stunning statement ring, each imbued with memory and meaning. These are the kind of treasures that become part of her journey, quietly gathering significance with every milestone that follows. Whether it’s a sparkling push present, a jewel to mark the first year, or a gift that signifies a more personal milestone, each piece is a celebration in itself.

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For Mum
Palmera earrings from Walker & Hall
Jubilee Tennis Bracelet from Walker & Hall
Flamenco dress ring from Walker & Hall
Lotus necklace from Walker & Hall
Trinity ring from Walker & Hall
Isla Tennis bracelet from Walker & Hall

The beauty of these thoughtful and enduring gifts lie not just in their beauty, but in their power to preserve a moment — distilling the joy, pride, and unbridled love of motherhood into something she can carry always — a lasting reminder of life’s most enduring bond.

walkerandhall.co.nz

Coveted

The jewellery designed for movement, ease and everyday elegance
Van Cleef & Arpels’ Fascinating Egypt: Inside one of high jewellery’s most anticipated annual events
Gucci’s transports us to Monte Carlo with a dreamy European summer escapade
Left to right: Tove, Nanushka, Emilia Wickstead, Burberry

All the best looks from London Fashion Week

The second stop on the fashion month agenda was London, with Laura Weir, recently appointed CEO of the British Fashion Council, giving the event a welcome renewal. Burberry stole the show, taking over Perks Field in Kensington Palace with a show for the ages, drawing on Britain’s unrivalled festival scene, while our very own Emilia Wickstead delivered a masterclass in daring romanticism. Below, we round up some of the best looks from London Fashion Week.

Spring 2026 Ready-To-Wear
Nanushka

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Spring 2026 Ready-To-Wear
Burberry

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Spring 2026 Ready-To-Wear
Emilia Wickstead

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Spring 2026 Ready-To-Wear
Tove

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Coveted

The jewellery designed for movement, ease and everyday elegance
Van Cleef & Arpels’ Fascinating Egypt: Inside one of high jewellery’s most anticipated annual events
Gucci’s transports us to Monte Carlo with a dreamy European summer escapade
Satya Chai Lounge

Satya Chai Lounge has once again joined forces with Garage Project for the ultimate pop-up

Garage Project and Satya Chai Lounge are back at it, reviving one of Auckland’s favourite pop-ups for a limited run. Open now, the Karangahape Road lounge has been transformed into Hyderabad Hotel — a vibrant nod to the spirit of India’s southern food capital, where spice, music, and conviviality reign supreme.

Hyderabad Hotel

Expect all the cosy energy of Satya’s beloved K’ Road haunt, now paired with a full Garage Project bar pouring cult favourites and fresh additions like Zinger, a brewed alcoholic ginger beer designed to zing up the season. On the menu, street eats shine: smashed dahi puri, onion bhaji, papdi chaat, and curry fries, alongside more substantial offerings of Hyderabad fried chicken, biriyani, curries, and rotating street snacks.

True to Satya’s style, the flavours are unapologetically bold and perfect for sharing over craft brews or a chilled natural wine. With its mix of atmosphere, spice, and playfulness, Hyderabad Hotel once again promises to be a short-lived but much-loved fixture on K’ Road — best experienced before it disappears.

Hyderabad Hotel’s doors are officially open for an undisclosed period of time, so we suggest you make your way to the pop-up fairly quickly, before it’s too late. 

Opening hours:
Wednesday — Monday from 5.30pm
Closed Tuesday

satya.co.nz

Hyderabad Hotel

Satya Chai Lounge
271 Karangahape Road
Auckland

Gastronomy

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SANTOS DE CARTIER WATCH in Steel

Cartier’s refined new Santos is a masterclass in petite perfection

Cartier’s iconic Santos de Cartier has been given a refined update. The new ‘petit’ model balances heritage and modernity in steel, gold, or two-tone — proof that timeless design knows no scale.

A little smaller, no less striking. Cartier’s latest release sees the beloved Santos de Cartier scaled down — a nod to the watch’s early dimensions and a reminder that elegance often lies in proportion. 

Santos de Cartier watch in Yellow gold

At 27mm wide and 34.5mm high, the new downscaled model brings a finely tuned sense of balance to the collection, while retaining the bold design language that has defined the Santos since 1904: square case, visible screws, and sharp Roman numerals. 

Santos de Cartier watch in yellow gold and steel from Partridge
Santos de Cartier watch in yellow gold from Partridge
Santos de Cartier watch in steel from Partridge

Created for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, the Santos was the first modern wristwatch, designed for ease in the cockpit. Today, it’s more about precision of style. This petite evolution adds a sunray-effect dial and a high-autonomy quartz movement specifically adapted to its scaled-down case. It’s available in all-steel, two-tone yellow gold and steel, or solid yellow gold, with the same QuickSwitch system that makes straps refreshingly interchangeable — calfskin for the mixed-metal models, and alligator for the gold. 

Santos de Cartier watch in yellow gold and steel

Proof that less can indeed be more, this refined Santos keeps the spirit of flight intact, while feeling perfectly grounded in the now. A classic, recut — still square, still striking, just more subtle in its statement.

partridgejewellers.com/cartier

Coveted

The jewellery designed for movement, ease and everyday elegance
Van Cleef & Arpels’ Fascinating Egypt: Inside one of high jewellery’s most anticipated annual events
Gucci’s transports us to Monte Carlo with a dreamy European summer escapade
Loungescape Sofa by Flexform from Studio Italia

Antonio Citterio’s Loungescape is a versatile seating system that adapts to any interior vision

Presented by Flexform, Antonio Citterio’s Loungescape is a versatile seating system that adapts fluidly to its environment. With sculptural forms inspired by the contours of a landscape, the modular design becomes the living space’s nucleus, offering ever-new perspectives on comfort and contemporary elegance.

Loungescape Sofa by Flexform from Studio Italia

studioitalia.co.nz

Design

How new furniture brought fresh life to this Auckland character villa
Milan 2026: The standout lighting designs that do more than illuminate
What lies beneath: The most significant design trend this year is where you’d least expect it