Forget flowing caftans and laid-back linen, this summer, adopt a more active style with sleek, sporty pieces that marry athleisure with beachwear in a cool, sporty hybrid. Whether you’re taking the boat out for a day of adventure, or are setting out for the nearest beach, these essentials will have you ready to spring into action. Shop our summer style edit now.
Making an unexpected comeback in our most design-led spaces, yellow is trending again and is inspiring us to let the light in. Here we consult the experts at Resene to understand how to do the trend justice.
In the ever-evolving world of interior design, one colour is staging an unexpected comeback, and it’s set to make our homes feel decidedly suitable for the season ahead. We’re talking, of course, about yellow, the sun-kissed hue reminiscent of warm rays and optimism. This colour brings with it an air of positivity and happiness and now, versions of it seem to be making their way back into the homes of discerning design-lovers who want to cultivate something different in their spaces. As always, any dramatic decisions pertaining to colour are always best made after consulting the experts at Resene, who offer a vast array of yellow hues which can be tailored perfectly to suit any kind of space.
From the subtle appeal of tones like Resene’s Sidecar and Popcorn, perfect for those seeking warmth and colour albeit in a more understated way, to brighter options like Resene’s Half Moonbeam and Melting Moment, offering unmistakably vibrant and lemon-like colours that will lift the vibe of a space, there is a veritable spectrum available for those wanting to dabble in yellow as their next interior hero, with Resene serving up the perfect shades for every aesthetic vision.
So why not prepare for the sunshine of the season ahead by inviting its warm tones inside? If you don’t quite know where to start, call on Resene’s experts. Not only will they help you tailor your palette to find the ideal yellow hue, but their expertise will see you transform your home into a masterpiece.
If you (like us) want to start your 2024 off in a strong sartorial style, look no further than Faradays‘ exquisite offering. The luxurious Parnell department store, known for its line-up of sought-after labels like Celine, Alaïa, Loewe and more, continues to welcome a raft of new pieces, and we are simply chomping at the bit to add them to our wardrobes.
For those looking to shake their style up this year, or for anyone who wants to start investing in forever pieces that promise serious staying power, we have rounded up a selection of our most wanted pieces, available to shop at Faradays right now.
Now that we’re in the midst of summer and the good times are rolling, it’s time to let your hair down with friends. From sun-soaked rooftop bars to lively gastropubs, quaint wine bars and more, Auckland has more than its fair share of impeccable watering holes to park up at for a drink and a bite.
Here, we’ve rounded up the best convivial cocktail spots to frequent this summer and beyond. Salute!
Set on the 50th floor of Auckland’s most iconic landmark, SkyBar takes after-work drinks to a whole new level. A luxurious hideaway promising an exceptional culinary offering, inventive cocktails and a multi-sensory experience.
Bringing the spirit of Parnell’s stylish Non Solo Pizza to Britomart’s glittering nightlife, newcomer Bar Non Solo is a convivial and sophisticated space for a catch-up.
Sunset is a sleek, elegant space nestled on the top floor of the Sudima Hotel taking happy hour to new heights. Here, satiating drinks and tasty food collide in a sumptuous setting — the perfect place to park up for an after-work drink or a weekend jaunt.
Set in the midst of Ponsonby’s Three Lamps, Annabel’s wine bar is an elegant osteria-esque address where you can while away an afternoon at one of the street-side tables or perch in the cosy atmosphere indoors enjoying a delightful glass and snack.
Take in the sea air from Parasol & Swing’s breezy balcony, set up above the Viaduct Harbour. Both original and classic cocktails are expertly mixed by award-winning staff.
With views across Viaduct Harbour, Saint Alice’s elevated position is the ideal spot to watch the world go by with a drink in hand and some tasty food on the table.
It may have a dimly lit ambience, but a drink order at Caretaker is sure to enlighten. Trust the bartenders at the classic underground Britomart spot, and you’ll find a new favourite.
With the spirit of gastropubs in Sydney and London, Hotel Ponsonby is a go-to meeting place where friends, families, groups and couples come together over a drink amidst a convivial, relaxed atmosphere.
There is simply no better place in the city to enjoy a long lunch or convivial night with friends than Soul Bar & Bistro. A spot that never fails to deliver on vibes, lively libations and delectable fare.
With its cosy, neighbourhood feel, well-chosen wine list and friendly team, Three Lamps wine bar Beau is a charming spot to wander to for an easy nightcap.
While it might be modelled off a ship’s bar, and specialises in sips with seaworthy rum, Captain’s is a masterful waterfront stop that meets the Park Hyatt’s polished standards.
With panoramic views across the harbour and an extensive cocktail menu, the Rooftop at QT Auckland is a prepossessing place for a nightcap above the city lights.
While it may have opened literally in the shadow of its namesake restaurant, Little Culprit stands out as a chic yet casual inner-city cocktail bar and wine lounge.
As much a place for long, indulgent lunches of flavourful Italian fare as it is for a late-afternoon drink, Viaduct Harbour favourite Bivacco is one of the city’s most atmospheric spots.
For wine and food lovers alike, paradise is found at Princes Wharf’s Somm, which offers a stellar lineup of iconic wines and a food menu that is sure to delight.
Worked up an appetite or a thirst while perusing Faradays’ stunning retail space? The store’s in-house bar is just the thing for it, with an extensive Champagne list and ever-changing, seasonal menu to refill your cup after a day on your feet.
With all the makings of the perfect spot for an easy drink or a bite with friends, The Terrace is an intimate, exquisitely-appointed new oyster bar and restaurant opened in the space alongside Viaduct Harbour’s Oyster & Chop.
For anyone who is already back in Auckland after their summer break, there are plenty of beautiful walks just outside the city that each offer the perfect excuse for a day trip. Why not extend the wonderful summer holiday feeling by taking in some fresh air with a gentle stroll in nature? Or if you’re up for it, a more vigorous hike. Here, we round up the best walks and hikes around Auckland.
(Before you embark on a trip, be sure to check the Auckland Council links below, for updates and guidelines.)
Distance: 4.3km / 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy
With spectacular 360-degree views taking in the Hauraki coastline, picture book Kiwi farm scenes and serene beaches, this easy walk is a favourite with families and people with photographic aspirations that extend beyond iPhone selfies. Make sure you make a diversion from the Farm Loop along the Whakakaiwhara Pā Walk which winds its way out to Whakaiwhara Point where walkers climb a small mound for photographs that will score the most likes on social media.
Distance: 3.5km/1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy-moderate
Making the most of the unruly forest that is the Hunua Ranges, this scenic stroll is easily one of the best walks in Auckland and will take you on a loop that winds up to a stretching lookout over the Wairoa Reservoir. An ideal early-morning walk that can see you home in time for lunch, it is steep in some places, but nothing too treacherous to note. Be sure to follow instructions to prevent the spread of kauri dieback while undertaking your walk.
Distance: 4.6km/ 1.5 – 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
This one and half hour loop, nestled between the mouths of the Pūhoi and Waiwera rivers, is a fantastic way to get your body moving if you’ve found yourself particularly sedentary of late. The easy track takes in the pretty gardens of Coudrey House, before offering revealing views of the Te Akeake sand spit and the Puhoi River. The headlands of Mahurangi Harbour can be spied in the north while islands pepper the ocean out to Kawau. Consider it a spectacular and simple starter walk.
Distance: 6.2km / 2 hours
Difficulty: Suitable for all fitness levels
Your first experience getting back to nature here will involve checking the tide times, with this North Shore favourite requiring mid-to-low tide to access beaches and best appreciate the fossil forest. Start at the Takapuna boat ramp on The Promenade and take in the 200-year-old pōhutukawa and the iconic Mon Desir. Then there’s the checklist of White Oaks, Hurstmere Homestead, Algie’s Castle, Mirror House, Firth Cottage, the Giant’s Chair, and the Fossil Forest to keep your eyes occupied while your legs do the hard work.
Distance: 5km / 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Lying right at the tip of the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, this versatile walking and mountain biking trail lies on a wildlife reserve. Leading outdoor enthusiasts across sand dunes, farmland, beaches, camping grounds and a Māori settlement area, the Tiri Tiri track makes for an entirely unique escape.
Distance: 6km / 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate-hard
Luring you into a false sense of confidence with its relatively easy beginning, this trail quickly shows walkers its darker side with steep stairs, tricky-to-navigate sections and trip-inducing tree roots. Don’t be discouraged though, because for all the huffing and puffing, the view — a sprawling lookout across a lush kauri grove — is worth it. Be sure to follow instructions to prevent the spread of kauri dieback while undertaking your walk.
Distance: 10km / 4 hours (but you can do smaller sections)
Difficulty: Easy-moderate
A versatile outing, the sprawling Waikōwhai Walkway offers bush trails, beachfront and more. With an extensive map that covers the entire area and the different trails available for download here, Hillsborough’s coastal walkway is an adventure for all.
While the sun is shining, the barbecue is in frequent use and fresh seafood is always on the menu, why not try your hand at making these delicious spicy BBQ prawn tacos? Resulting in wonderfully tangy morsels that everyone will love, this recipe is super simple to make — especially if you have guests to impress.
4 tsp Sriracha, divided
4 tsp Lillie’s Q Hot Smoky BBQ Sauce, divided
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bag frozen prawns, peeled with tails removed
1 cup sour cream
1 tsp honey
1 tsp sesame oil
2 limes
Pinch of Himalayan salt flakes
2 cups shredded purple cabbage
1/4 cup coriander, freshly chopped
1 tbsp organic extra virgin olive oil
8 corn tortillas
1. Stir together 2 teaspoons of Sriracha, 2 teaspoons Lillie’s Q Hot Smoky BBQ sauce, soy sauce and minced garlic in a large bowl. Then add prawns and mix until well coated before setting aside to marinate.
2. In a Ziploc bag, add sour cream, the remaining 2 teaspoons of Sriracha and Lillie’s Q Hot Smoky BBQ sauce before closing the bag and keeping in the fridge until ready to serve.
3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine sesame oil, honey and the zest and juice of one lime with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Add the cabbage and coriander and lightly toss, then set aside.
4. Pour extra virgin olive oil into a large pan on medium to high heat. Add the prawns and marinade and lightly pan fry until caramelised, then flip. Cook for approximately 3 minutes, or until firm before transferring onto a plate. (The extra marinade can be poured over the tacos at the end).
5. In a separate, dry pan place the tortillas on medium heat. Once warm, transfer to a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm.
6. Assemble the tacos with a handful of cabbage slaw and a few pieces of shrimp. Snip a corner off the Ziploc bag and drizzle the tacos with the Sriracha-sour cream sauce. Garnish with a wedge of lime and serve immediately.
Adapted recipe by Judy Kim.
Image credit: Judy Kim
Did you ring in the New Year by pushing the boat out a little too far last night? Never fear, in our opinion, a good Bloody Mary can be the difference between surviving a hangover and promising you’ll never drink again. That said, you really don’t need to be hungover to enjoy this Bloody Mary recipe in all its savoury, spicy glory, it’s just as perfect for a refreshing, New Year’s Day brunch with your crew, or as a drink to make on repeat throughout summer.
2 litres of tomato juice, chilled
2 Tbsp of Worcestershire sauce
2 Tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1 Tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed
2 tsp celery salt
Dash of salt
Dash of pepper
4 dashes of Tabasco (or to taste)
15ml Fire Tonic
1 ½ cups vodka
1. Combine all ingredients except vodka, ice and celery sticks in a large jug. Adjust the mix to taste depending on how salty, spicy, or citrus-y you like it.
2. Add a tablespoon of vodka to stabilise the mix while chilling. Just before serving, add the rest of the vodka.
3. Serve over lots of ice and garnish each glass with a celery stick.
Whether you’re embarking on a weekend road trip or are simply looking for something to shorten your commute, dance to in your living room or play while you’re in the shower, we have rounded up some of the best new and noteworthy podcasts and albums to listen to now.
Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton’s new album, Rockstar, her forty-ninth solo venture, marks her debut in the rock genre. The album features collaborations with rock icons and kicks off with the electrifying lead single, ‘World On Fire’. Followed by ‘Bygones’ featuring Rob Halford, Nikki Sixx, and John 5, a bold take on rock classics ‘We Are the Champions’ and ‘We Will Rock You’ and a remarkable rendition of ‘Let It Be’, featuring Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. Marking another fearless musical evolution for this icon, Parton’s new album is redefining her storied career once again.
Song to start with:
World On Fire
Before and After
Neil Young
The newest album from this musical legend offers an acoustic treasure trove, where Neil Young has revisited his classic repertoire through a more pared-back and intimate lens. Set for an early-December release, this album builds on Young’s artistic evolution and treats listeners to a mesmerising sonic journey where each track blends into the next, creating an immersive listening experience. Offering a new take on the best of Young’s renowned playbook, this album will fast become a favourite for fans and music-lovers alike.
Song to start with:
I’m The Ocean
Sweet Justice
Tkay Maidza
Following her recent collaboration with Flume on ‘Silent Assassin’, Tkay Maidza introduces us to her eagerly-awaited sophmore album with the vibrant single ‘Ring-a-Ling’ and its accompanying video directed by Jocelyn Anquetil. The album delves into a transformative phase in
Maidza’s life, shedding old connections and self-doubt. With guest appearances from artists like Lolo Zouaï, Amber Mark and Duckwrth, and production contributions from Flume, Stint and Kaytranada, Sweet Justice promises a bold evolution in Maidza’s captivating musical journey.
Song to start with:
Ring-a-Ling
Sharing Plate
Embark on a flavourful odyssey with The Sharing Plate Podcast, where food becomes the conduit for exploring cultural roots, and culinary delights. Here, guests who have made the UK their home divulge their treasured recipes and heartwarming stories. From refugees to seasoned foodies, the common thread of enjoying a meal with loved ones unites them all.
Hard Fork
This captivating podcast throws us into the fast-paced realm of technology. Peering into a future that’s already unfolding, Hard Fork is hosted by seasoned journalists Kevin Roose and
Casey Newton who via keen insight and analysis, dissect and decipher the most recent developments in tech and bring clarity to the complex landscape
of our future.
Everything from A to V
In this trailblazing podcast hosted by the insightful Dr. Sneha Wadhwani, the enigmatic world of women’s health is unravelled. With an ensemble of experts, she dispels myths on topics from contraception to the eternal bathroom queue, menopause, bladder health and more to separate medical fact from fiction.
Ghost Story
Host Tristan Redman, a seasoned journalist, explores the eerie mysteries of his past in this captivating podcast. Scepticism meets curiosity as he delves into the chilling tale of the faceless ghost that haunted his childhood home, which just happened to be adjacent to the site of his wife’s great-grandmother’s unsolved murder.
The art of self-tanning is fastidious and one that requires patience, precision and most importantly an exceptionally good formula. And, of course, it’s far better for you and your skin if you resist the urge to sunbathe.
With summer now in full swing, we’ve pooled our collective experience (faux pas included) and put together the definitive guide to a flawless glow that’s better than the real thing.
Get ready for gloriously golden skin — minus the mess.
The biggest mistake you can make when fake tanning at home is not spending the time to prep your skin properly. The best results come when the skin is as smooth and hydrated as possible.
Start with a good and proper exfoliation — this will remove dead skin cells and ensure the tan absorbs evenly. The best way to do this is with a vigorous dry body brush that really gets the job done perfectly. This not only buffs away dead skin cells, it also smooths the skin, boosts circulation, helps minimise cellulite and stimulates lymphatic drainage. It’s incredibly good for you and excellent for the health and texture of your skin.
Next, rinse off any dry skin in the shower and if you need a little extra exfoliation, use an oil free body scrub. This will buff, smooth and prime skin perfectly, especially on those notoriously rough patches like your knees, elbows and ankles — all those little areas where fake tan likes to collect and stain.
Be wise with your product selections here. It’s important to use oil-free solutions, as oil-based scrubs and cleansers leave behind a residue that interferes with the efficacy of the tanners and can cause streaks too. And, if you’re tanning your face, the same rules apply — be sure to exfoliate with a cleanser or pad that includes some exfoliating acids to slough away dead and dull skin, and encourage even absorption.
The most common cause of a patchy tan is dry skin, so it’s crucial to moisturise those notoriously tricky areas prior to application. Focus on wrists and hands, elbows, knees, ankles and feet — and perhaps even around your nostrils if you’re face tanning.
It’s a good idea to wait at least 10 minutes after showering until you are completely dry, then use a lightweight lotion for your face. For the body, opt for a super lightweight and nourishing formula that quickly absorbs and won’t mess with your tan. This will keep those areas from turning too dark or that nasty unwanted orange.
Always apply with a tanning mitt or brush!
Smooth on product in circular motions, blending and buffing the tan deeper into the epidermis. The more you buff and work the product into your skin, the better, this ensures a more even and streak-free finish, helps to prolong the tan and encourages a better fade-out.
When applying, it’s best to use small amounts of the product each time — starting with your feet and ankles, working your way up to your shoulders to prevent any marks when you bend over. Save your arms and hands for last and try not to race to wash your hands, just blend it gradually with your wrists and arms, as you don’t want white hands with bronzed arms.
Once your tan has been applied, ensure skin is hydrated during the days that follow as hydrated skin will look more radiant and will ensure a more even fade.
As oil breaks down your tan, opt for a hyaluronic-based body moisturiser and avoid any enzymatic body and skincare such as glycolic or lactic acids, as these can accelerate the fade time of tan.
To prolong your tan even longer, apply a gradual tan. This will simultaneously hydrate skin as well as ‘top up’ your tan with a gradual buildable tan for a prolonged golden tone that perfectly achieves that natural summer glow.
Alongside the ham and turkey, sides and salads and (of course) the obligatory desserts, there is nothing like a well-made drink or two to set the perfect tone on Christmas Day. Here, we round up three of our favourite, go-to recipes for festive drinks that everyone will love.
Bear with us — this is actually a thing and yes, it is actually quite tasty. After all, the concept of a boozy hot chocolate is hardly new. Here, the trick is to make up one batch of hot chocolate, and one of mulled wine separately, before combining the two as the final step. And, according to The New York Times, it is best to use real dark chocolate warmed with regular milk and a bit of condensed milk (for sweetness), and to mull the wine with allspice, ancho and a touch of chipotle chilli. Add in some cloves, star anise, cinnamon and orange too if you like. (Basically whatever spices you have on hand.) Combine the two in a mug at the end and voilá — we promise you’ll be surprised by how good it is.
1-2 bars of dark chocolate
Regular milk
Condensed milk
1 bottle of red wine
Spices (allspice, ancho, chipotle chilli, 2-4 cloves, 1 star anise, 1-2 cinnamon sticks)
Orange slices
Sugar
1. Warm the dark chocolate in a pot with regular milk and a touch of condensed milk.
2. In a separate pot, prepare the mulled wine by gently warming the red wine with a sprinkling of sugar and adding in your various spices. Heat until simmering and then turn off.
3. Remove the cinnamon stick, star anise and cloves from the red wine.
4. Combine the hot chocolate with the warm mulled wine in a mug and top with optional whipped cream if you like.
An undeniable classic, eggnog is (when prepared correctly) a delicious beverage to get everyone into the Christmas mood. And despite it being typically associated with the trappings of a traditional white Christmas, there’s no reason why it can’t be enjoyed as part of our Kiwi Christmas Day — it is delicious, after all. To ensure we get our eggnog right every time, it is to the simple recipe of Jamie Oliver that we turn year after year. In his recipe, Oliver advocates for starting the process by infusing milk and cream with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla beans — and it only gets better from there.
3 cups (700ml) whole milk
1 cup (240ml) heavy or double cream
3 cinnamon sticks
1 vanilla bean pod, split and seeds removed
1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, plus more for garnish
5 eggs, separated
2/3 (130g) cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup (175ml) Bacardí Dark Rum, or bourbon
1. Combine milk, cream, cinnamon, vanilla bean, vanilla seeds, and nutmeg in a pan over medium heat and bring to a boil.
2. Remove from the heat and allow to steep.
3. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat egg yolks and sugar until combined and thick ribbons form when the whisk is lifted.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk and continue to mix until everything is combined and smooth.
5. Add bourbon or rum, and stir.
6. Refrigerate overnight or for up to three days.
7. Before serving, beat the egg whites in a large bowl or stand mixer until soft peaks form. Gently fold into eggnog until combined. Serve and garnish with grated nutmeg.
Easy to make in big batches and promising a perfectly refreshing drink to combat our warm Southern Hemisphere Christmas, the classic sangria is given a fruity and festive twist here with a recipe that everyone will love. Our tip? Make this on Christmas Eve and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This will allow the flavour to really develop to its full potential. All you need to do is combine a dry red wine with a selection of freshly-chopped fruit (whatever you have on hand), cinnamon sticks, some brandy and Grand Mariner, a dash of sweetness via Agave syrup or sugar and top with ginger ale or sparkling water. Mix everything in a big jug with ice, keep it super chilled and pour for all and sundry for a very Merry Christmas indeed.
1 bottle of dry red wine (a Cabernet Sauvignon is the best option here)
Dash of Brandy
Dash of Grand Mariner
Agave or sugar
Selection of chopped fresh fruit (oranges, limes, pomegranate, pear, berries, green apple, etc.)
2-4 cinnamon sticks
Ginger ale or sparkling water
1. In a large jug, add agave nectar, Grand Marnier, brandy, orange slices, lime slices, pear slices, pomegranate seeds and cinnamon sticks.
2. Pour over the entire bottle of red wine and stir to combine.
3. Cover and place in refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours (although overnight is recommended).
4. Right before you are about to serve, top the sangria ginger ale and give it a quick stir.
5. Pour over ice or serve chilled and garnish with fresh limes and oranges.
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