The newest addition Ponsonby Central is inviting us to indulge in something sweet and feel good about it in the process. Newly-opened Lulu’s is a charming spot dedicated to plant-based soft serve and nutrient-packed acai bowls, and marks an evolution from the brand’s cult-followed, food truck beginnings. Here, flavour and sustainability come together in harmony, and there are already people lining up to get a taste of the magic for themselves.
You’ll find Lulu’s tucked in the laneway by Silky Otter, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. It’s the brainchild of Lula and Tyla Samuel, a mother-daughter team inspired by the latter’s travels across Europe, Indonesia and Australia. Having noticed a gap in the market, they decided to bring delicious, plant-based soft-serve ice cream and Brazilian acai bowls to our city in new and innovative ways. And so far, it seems the venture is paying off.
The hero at Lulu’s is its coconut-based soft serve, a treat that tastes as good as it looks. The flavours are mesmerisingly swirled together to create flavour combinations that are delicious and undeniably photogenic. Instagram-friendly, if you will. The most popular flavour, we’re told, is the mango soft serve. Reminiscent of both the tropical vacation we crave and the sorely-missed Fruju Tropical Snow, it’s easy to see why this iteration has become so sought-after.
In addition, Lulu’s Ponsonby also serves incredible acai bowls. But instead of blending everything together like many other places, the team here hand-scoops the ingredients, which results in a delightfully creamy texture. The bowls are topped with seasonal fruits and superfoods, turning them from a tasty treat to a healthy indulgence.
Before finding this permanent Ponsonby home, Lulu’s operated from a food truck for four years. And while the duo behind Lulu’s loved being on the go, they found that the weather sometimes got in the way of their events, and it soon became clear it was time to lay down more permanent roots. That’s why they were thrilled when they found the perfect little shop window in the heart of a humming hospitality hub. It was the opportunity they had been waiting for.
The Samuels have big dreams for Lulu’s. They hope to keep expanding the menu and even open a second location one day. With their dedication to solely plant-based cuisine and their commitment to deliciousness, there’s no doubt that Lulu’s will continue to grow and gather more foodie fans along the way.
In the wellbeing realm, where the pursuit of ultimate indulgence is neverending, East Day Spa has long been a leader of the pack and a beacon of constant innovation. Recently, its flagship location, an oasis-like spa in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, has undergone a breathtaking metamorphosis. Reflective of the East Day Spa team’s unwavering commitment to redefining the essence of the spa experience, the refurbished space now radiates an aura of opulence and serenity that is simply unrivalled, and boasts a series of new spaces in which clients can find relaxation and rejuvenation on a whole other level.
The new interior of East Day Spa has been carefully designed to create a contemporary haven of calm. Curved accents and luxurious materials combine harmoniously, allowing visitors to escape their busy, daily lives to a world of tranquillity and peace. The spa now boasts state-of-the-art facilities and treatments catering to every wellness need, including a highly-anticipated Tepidarium and Sauna Space.
The Tepidarium is a purpose-built warm relaxation room that almost oozes bliss. Five Italian stone-heated loungers emit a radiant, gentle heat, designed to gently melt away muscle tension and encourage the mind to unwind. It is the perfect space to surrender your body to complete relaxation, whether before or after a treatment or simply as a peaceful vacation from the outside world. Sessions in the East Tepidarium can be enjoyed for as little as 30 minutes, accommodating a maximum of five people per session for an intimate and exclusive experience.
For those seeking heat therapy on a deeper level, East Day Spa now also offers a new range of Clearlight Infrared Saunas. These sublime spaces provide a personal sanctuary where clients can bask in warmth and comfort. The healing infrared light penetrates the body, removing toxins, relieving muscle pain, boosting metabolism, alleviating joint stiffness, improving skin health, and even diminishing the appearance of cellulite. Whether you enjoy this serene space alone or with a friend, the new saunas promise a transformative experience.
Founded in 2002, East Day Spa has locations in Auckland, Wellington and Bali. The team’s dedication to exceeding guests’ expectations is evident in the spas’ extensive treatment menus, offering more than 70 options that encompass both Eastern remedies and cutting-edge European skincare — this latest foray into heat therapy is just one example.
Really, there’s no better opportunity to escape the stresses of daily life than with East Day Spa’s newly unveiled Tepidarium and Sauna Space. Here, you can surrender to complete relaxation, rejuvenate your body and emerge feeling entirely refreshed and ready to take on anything.
Considering that there’s nothing like marking the end of a long day (or week) with fine wine, delicious cheese and satiating nibbles (even better when they’re enjoyed with friends), we were so excited when we heard that Park Hyatt’s The Pantry has decided to evolve its delectable offering to include an evening service. The waterfront spot recently unveiled its new ‘Evening Eats’ menu to coincide with the extension of its opening hours, now open until 9pm on Wednesday through Sunday. In doing so, this expansive corner spot has staked its claim as the perfect place for discerning business people and locals alike to unwind over wine and charcuterie and is giving us all the excuse we need to head towards the water when the work day is done.
On the new menu, cheeses and charcuterie are the heroes, with the former comprising a series of fresh, daily varietals served with crackers and quince, and the latter made up of prosciutto, classic salami or hot soppressata, served with grain mustard and pickles.
That said if it’s something more satiating you seek, there is also a selection of flavoursome bites that have been designed to pair perfectly with The Pantry’s wine list. From Gruyere Grilled Cheese with horseradish and caramelised onions, and Prawn Toast with brioche, miso mayo, sweet soy and bonito flakes, to ‘PFC’ or Pantry Fried Chicken and Crispy Potatoes with onion dip and manchego cheese, to a particularly tasty-looking Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts, the ‘Evening Eats’ menu is full of easy, indulgent dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving.
So next time you’re thinking about an after-work drink, or indeed are planning a weekend catch-up with friends, Park Hyatt’s The Pantry is the place to go. And while walk-ins are welcome, we recommend booking this popular spot by emailing here or calling (09) 366 1234, if you’re to secure the best table.
Auckland is now well-versed in Aigo’s excellence. The moments when this Ponsonby Road restaurant isn’t heaving are rare, and just days after opening last November, it had become one of the hardest-to-come-by tables in town. Its initial, unprecedented success was the catalyst for this week’s opening of Aigo Newmarket, which sees a return for restauranteur David Lee to his hospitality roots. Here, one half of The Candy Shop has been reclaimed as Aigo, in a continuation of Lee’s vision to offer delicious Korean-inspired food in all its forms.
Applying the same approach Lee used when fitting out Dear Jervois all the way back in 2013, he quite literally designed the space himself, employing friends to help with the gruntier parts of the build. Attention to detail here is evident — all the light features and lampshades were picked by him, even where they were placed around the space. With his team in tow, Lee has spent the past months hunting through antique stores, finding what could possibly work in the space, staying late every night and testing out their finds. A masterclass in trial and error, if you will, but one that has ultimately paid off — and speaks to his approach for Aigo Newmarket more broadly.
Aigo Newmarket interiors designed by David Lee.
We’ve come to learn that despite their shared moniker and overarching principles, these two destinations diverge slightly in their menu. With a spacious and expanded kitchen, the new Aigo moves past the boundaries of noodle dishes that defined its predecessor, offering an enticing evolution of flavours. From what we’ve been told, dishes you need to order include the likes of pancetta rose tteokbokki, an indulgent combination of a subtly spicy gochujang cream sauce paired with the iconic chewy rice cake noodles (like the cacio e pepe version from Ponsonby). And then there’s the truly authentic yukgaejang ragu, which pays homage to the fiery and beloved Korean staple soup. Here the kitchen skillfully distils the essence of this soup into a rich ragu, infused with wagyu mince and served alongside homemade pappardelle.
Some of Ponsonby’s hero dishes, like the crispy rice with spicy tuna tartare, the crispy eggplant and the bibim naengmyeon, will remain across both venues (all three of which I ate and loved at Aigo Ponsonby last week), speaking to the rapture that Lee and Head Chef Kevin Choi’s menu already has the City in. Much of the drinks menu will remain the same too; with an extensive list of natural wines sourced from the Aigo team’s friends at Wine Diamonds, and a few crafty (and some more mainstream) beers for good measure. A delicious, classic cocktail list can be relied upon too, with a few fun concoctions in the mix.
Similarities aside, Lee explains to me how the development of his first site was somewhat of a call and response to the changing nature of the space — only pivoting from a fried chicken shop to the now-adored noodle bar at the last minute. “You could say it was a bit rushed,” he recalls. “Working with the little kitchen space we had, and I’m thankful to my team for pulling it off.” He tells me that with this sister restaurant, having ample time and space (Newmarket seats 60 diners at any one time) has led to this more evolved, grown-up version of Aigo. “We’ve had a lot more time to prepare, and we made the kitchen a lot bigger so we can do the things we’ve always wanted to do. We can now do handmade pasta and a lot more chargrilled meats — I’m looking forward to seeing how our friends in Newmarket respond to these flavours.”
Left: Rose Tteokbokki. Right: Natural Wines from Wine Diamonds.
Those in his inner-most circle describe it as part of the next era of Newmarket dining; the much-needed injection into the suburb’s late-night dining scene. Knowing that it takes a village, Lee has decided to open The Candy Shop for dinner as well. This means Osborne Lane will be lively during the late hours, with its neighbour Duck Island being open at night too, drawing more people into the area.
Through the newly-founded Namu Group, which incorporates Lee’s varied suite of venues, from Camper Coffee to Pōni, his legacy is already becoming a constant evolution of excellence. One that pays homage to authentic Korean roots and still looks ahead to all of the influences that can elevate his restaurants to the next level. If anything, Aigo’s success thus far proves exactly that.
When elevating skin to its healthiest state, understanding the nuances of skincare and all its jargon is paramount. One common source of confusion is the difference between dehydration and dry skin. These two terms may seem interchangeable, but understanding their distinctions is necessary if you are to address your skin’s concerns effectively. Recently, I spoke with Gina Turner, a renowned skin expert from Sothys who shared invaluable insight on the matter, explaining which treatment rituals were best for addressing both conditions. Sothys, a brand synonymous with luxury and efficacy, has been at the forefront of skincare innovation for decades, making Turner the perfect person to point us (and our skin) in the right direction.
Dehydration, as Turner explains, refers to a lack of water in the skin, while dryness signifies an absence of oil. While the two conditions may manifest with similar symptoms, discerning their underlying causes is essential for accurate treatment. Dehydration often leaves the skin feeling tight, particularly after cleansing, as if your skin is one size too small for your face. On the other hand, dryness is characterised by rough texture, flaking, dullness and occasional sensitivity. Observing these manifestations carefully will allow you to begin the most suitable protocol to support your skin through the season.
You see, as the seasons change, our skin faces different challenges. Winter, in particular, exacerbates both dehydration and dryness. The harsh cold air and temperature fluctuations from indoor heating strip the skin of its moisture, leaving it vulnerable to these conditions. In such climates, it becomes crucial to employ a regimen that counteracts these effects and restores balance to the skin.
When it comes to treating dehydration, Turner emphasises the efficacy of topical applications. The right moisturiser, specifically formulated to support water flow and retention in the skin, can provide instant relief to a parched visage. Look for products containing keywords such as hydrate and plump, as they focus on restoring and maintaining optimal hydration levels.
Addressing dryness, Turner suggests a multifaceted approach. Internally, incorporating foods rich in oils, such as those containing omega fatty acids, can be beneficial, as it is thought the best beauty begins within. To further the treatment, topically applied products that support or mimic the skin’s natural oil secretions can be highly effective. Seek out formulations with keywords like nutrition and nourishment to replenish the skin’s oil barrier and encourage overall skin health.
While it’s possible to experience both dehydration and dryness simultaneously, Turner advises tailoring your approach based on the severity of each condition. Some individuals may find products that address both concerns simultaneously, while others may benefit from focusing on one more intensively, using products with key ingredients designed to target their skin’s unique needs.
For those seeking the best skincare products to aid in their skin’s recovery, Turner recommends Sothys’ Hydra4 Moisturising Range for dehydration and their Nutritive Nourishing Range for dryness. Sothys, renowned for its luxurious and effective formulations, has meticulously developed these lines to provide targeted solutions for each concern, ensuring optimal, long-lasting results.
And while simply knowing and understanding these conditions is important, Turner also encourages seeking out professional guidance if you’re to address every aspect of your skin’s needs. Determining whether your skin is dry or dehydrated can be a challenging and frustrating process without expert advice. Consulting a beauty therapist or skincare professional will steer you in the right direction, helping you identify the ideal ingredients and products, while also taking into account the seasonal and climatic factors that can impact your skin.
Understanding the distinction between dehydration and dryness empowers you to take proactive steps in maintaining and improving the health of your skin. Armed with this insight (and some new products to add to your routine), you can embrace a skincare routine that addresses your unique skin, ensuring a luminous and supple complexion year-round that is neither dehydrated nor dry.
An essential companion for making it through the winter season is the new issue of Denizen, available now. Covered by the impressive Spanish actor Elsa Pataky, this issue delves into everything we should be getting excited about over the coming months, including an explicit guide on how to survive the cold season (from essential recipes to hot-tub etiquette), and a rundown of the most soul-warming spicy dishes to indulge in as the weather gets chilly.
From Elsa Pataky to iconic designer Patricia Urquiola, to lauded Kiwi author Eleanor Catton (whose new book is already a runaway success), to the incredible local ecopreneur Suzan Craig (who not only has a mānuka honey and natural skincare line but whose ecological restoration work on her land up north has had huge environmental impacts), we have profiled a range of intriguing people whose achievements across design, fashion, food, wellbeing and culture are sure to leave you feeling inspired and motivated.
Elsewhere we have curated a dedicated Jewellery and Watch Special (guest-edited by Vanity Fair contributor Annabel Davidson) that runs through the biggest news and most important trends being touted by the key brands in this space, from Bulgari to Van Cleef & Arpels to Tiffany & Co. and more. And if it’s sartorial inspiration you’re after, you’ll find it on the rest of our coveted pages, which include a skiwear special and a photoshoot featuring the most exquisite jewellery pieces from Van Cleef & Arpels.
In design, we wrap-up the best new pieces that came out of this year’s exceptional Milan Design Week, alongside offering a first-hand review of Maserati’s impressive Levante Trofeo. While over in Culture, find all the best things to read, to watch and to listen to over winter. Trust us, theses are the best ways to while away the inclement days.
That said, if it’s travel you’re seeking this season, in Navigator, we take you around the world to some incredible places worthy of booking for a special, milestone holiday (whether a birthday with friends, an elegant elopement, an engagement or any occasion deserving of a memorable escape). From private retreats to super yacht charters to architectural destinations, these unique holidays will see you make memories that will last a lifetime.
So pick up your own copy of Denizen’s new winter issue now (or subscribe here) and cosy up for the best seasonal read around. With Denizen as your guide, there’s much to be excited about in the coming winter months.
When filling your interior with modern accents and sculptural furnishings, be sure to lay the right foundations first. Here, as always, we turn to Resene’s vast and varied range to uncover the colour palette best suited to a clean, contemporary space.
While bold, monochromatic colours are certainly having a moment in interiors, never underestimate the power of a simple, neutral palette. Able to brighten a low-lit space or breathe life back into any interior that needs it, using paint in these tones will not only bring a subtle depth and dimension to a space, but is the perfect way to lay foundations for contemporary interior details to shine.
Here is an example of how Resene’s white and neutral shades can be strategically deployed to offer the kind of backdrop that will make your furniture stand out. Using a combination of Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen Kinship on the main wall, Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen Sea Fog on the back wall, and Resene Lustacryl Stepping Stone on the floor, stylist Amber Armitage has harnessed the power of Resene paint to expertly demonstrate the impact of a crisp, neutral palette in action.
In seeking to recreate this look at home, we suggest starting with tones like Resene Sea Fog, Tiri,Concrete and Half Tuna to create a space that is crisp, cool and contemporary.
With conditions decidedly frosty, it is high time we gave our knitwear an overhaul, in order to prepare for the season ahead. It is, after all, the last few weeks before winter officially kicks off. So of course, it is to the cashmere queens at Elle & Riley that we turn first, able to rely on their collections that balance sleek style with luxurious, high-quality fabrics and always a few, fun twists.
Elle & Riley’s new Luxe collection has everything we need to combat winter’s wrath. Not only are many of the pieces in this collection limited edition (many made in custom-dyed colourways and exclusive yarns) but the brand has also introduced a slightly thicker, five-gauge knit to the fold, offering extreme comfort and warmth.
Inspired by the rich, natural landscapes of Aotearoa via tones like Butter Yellow, Ice Blue and Stone, Elle & Riley’s covetable new cashmere offers a fresh take on classic tropes. And while the vibrant notes are welcome, there is an underlying versatility here thanks to a core, tonal palette and the use of matching styles that allow for effortless layering with any kind of personal style.
With Auckland’s winter cultural calendar already in full swing, now feels like the perfect time for a date night or long-overdue catch-up. And what better way to do that than with dinner and a show? Here, we’ve compiled a discerning list of the restaurants doing pre-show dinner best — organised by proximity to your designated venue. (For these experiences, we’d recommend booking well in advance and, as a general courtesy, letting staff know if you have a tight turn-around ahead of time.)
Best Restaurants Near…
Spark Arena
As Britomart is only a short stroll away, your dinner and drink options before a show at Spark Arena are never limited. That said, we’ve sought out the favourites that foster a certain kind of experience, divine and delicious but never tedious if you’ve got somewhere to be.
Bar Non Solo
Bar Non Solo Last month, Bar Non Solo unveiled its new Pre-Show Menu — perfect for those on their way to some kind of show (likely at the nearby Spark Arena). Available between 4pm and 7pm, for a mere $30, guests can dine on a selection of plates that includes marinated olives, whipped ricotta, seasonal arancini, cured meats and cheeses, and two delicious pizzas. It’s the perfect way to ensure you are satiated for an exciting night. Bookings for this experience are essential to ensure you arrive at Spark with plenty of time to spare.
Cafe Hanoi In preparation of the upcoming season of lauded musical Hamilton at Spark Arena, Cafe Hanoi (only a quick walk from the venue) is extending its weekend dinner service. Alongside sister venues Ghost Street and Perch (both also in Britomart) the restaurant’s Signature Menu will be available from noon on Saturdays and 4pm on Sundays, allowing diners ample time to indulge ahead of the show.
Ortolana This iconic restaurant is small but mighty. Offering a curated and concise menu, and an intimate, calm setting, Ortolana is one spot to which we always find ourselves returning for dinner in the Britomart precinct. With a pre-show dinner menu, the service is swift (if needed), and the fresh pasta is always divine.
SkyCity, Aotea Centre, Auckland Town Hall, The Civic & Q Theatre
Auckland’s undeniable hub of live music, theatre, comedy performances, film festivals and more, this mid-town region is home to some of the best venues in the city (and therefore home to some of the best performances, too). Cheap and cheerful options here are abundant, but if you seek a more sophisticated bite to eat, here’s where to go.
Culprit
Gusto At The Grand This SkyCity stalwart was made for pre-show dining. Modern and unpretentious, yet undeniably delicious, the dedicated Pre-Show menu here comprises a concise edit of the restaurant’s best dishes. Offering two courses, with two plates each to share, the $49 menu is served between 5pm and 6pm throughout the weekend and evolves with the season.
Culprit Culprit’s innovative culinary concept is perfect for a pre-show bite. The ever-changing menu comprises trolleys of snacks to share, warming the palate for the mains to come. We’d suggest letting the restaurant know of your show plans when booking, to ensure you arrive at the theatre on time.
Cassia When a matinee performance comes around (is there a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon?) set-menu lunches are essential to keep you satiated through the performance. Cassia’s iteration, which marks the restaurant’s new era under the SkyCity banner, is a delicious selection of the restaurant’s most loved dishes. With two starters, a choice of four mains and a sweet sorbet to finish, at $58 a head, this is serious value for money.
ASB Waterfront Theatre
Home to the Auckland Theatre Company and a burgeoning roster of up-and-coming talents, the ASB Waterfront Theatre is a familiar destination for any show-goer. With Viaduct Harbour and several sumptuous hotel restaurants on its doorstep, the hardest part is choosing where to go.
Left to right: Onemata & Somm Cellar Door & Bar
Somm Cellar Door & Bar This recently-opened Foley Hospitality destination is a wine-focused experience, serving a seriously impressive selection from some of the country’s finest drops. The food here complements its beverage offering, with the Gavin Doyle-designed menu serving cheeses, charcuterie and pillowy pizzas alongside small plates to share; a pre-show dinner that will never leave you too full.
Esther Found in the heart of Viaduct Harbour’s QT Hotel, Esther treats diners to the ultimate theatre-going experience with its Feasting Menu, a culinary concept that serves two- and three-course dinners. Best for larger groups (as you get more to taste that way) Sean Connolly’s menu is Mediterranean-inspired, with subtle nods to comforting, home-cooked fare.
Onemata If you find yourself drawn to the theatre in the mid-to-late afternoon, Onemata’s Express Lunch menu is the only way to begin the experience. Two courses here are served for $55 per person, where guests can choose an entree or dessert alongside their main — a beautiful way to sample this restaurant’s exquisite cuisine.
Your Favourite North Shore Theatres
Whether you’re heading to a show at Bruce Mason Theatre, or a more lowkey movie at the North Shore’s lauded boutique cinemas, these tried-and-true destinations always pull through.
Left to right: Tokki & Duo Eatery
Tokki Perfect for a quick round of sharing plates (the famous flat noodles are essential) or the more indulgent seasonal house menu, Jason Kim’s Tokki is a masterclass in chic Korean dining. For a pre-show dinner, you’ll want to allow yourself some time for the set menu, so you can savour each bite.
Duo Eatery This Birkenhead eatery is a quick five-minute drive from Bridgeway Cinema — the perfect pairing for a cosy night out. Duo’s dinner menu is an elevated take on its popular brunches, with dishes ideally suited for sharing. (The crispy eggplant, with ‘nduja dressing and buffalo curd is a personal favourite.)
The Engine Room Serving some of the best cuisines on the northern side of the bridge, The Engine Room’s menu is iconic. Refined but unfussy, the vision here is to serve really, really good food and foster a certain kind of ambience to match. Best reserved for those special occasions, we’d recommend allowing yourself a little extra time to take it all in.
A classic from kitchen whizz Miss Polly’s Kitchen, this warming broth is filled to the brim with umami flavours. Incorporating healthy vegetables, slurp-worthy noodles and convenient store-bought dumplings, this recipe can easily be tweaked to suit whatever fresh ingredients you might have on hand.
Broth 2 tsp light olive oil 4 cloves of garlic, grated ½ tsp dried chilli flakes 1 tbsp of sesame oil 1 tbsp of miso paste 2 tbsp tomato paste ½ eggplant, chopped 1 zucchini, chopped 10 button mushrooms, quartered 2.5 cups vegetable stock 2.5 cups of water 1 tbsp of mirin 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar 2 ½ tbsp soy sauce 2 tbsp fish sauce
Toserve A handful of spinach, finely sliced A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds 1 spring onion, sliced
Method: 1. Prepare and chop the vegetables, ready for cooking. 2. Heat a large pot on medium heat and add a good splash of oil. 3. Using a zester, grate the garlic into the pot, add the chilli flakes followed by the sesame oil, miso paste and tomato paste and cook for 5 minutes. 4. Now, add the eggplant to the paste mix and stir, ensuring the eggplant is covered with the paste and cook for a further 5 minutes. 5. At the same time, in another pot, bring water to the boil and add the eggs, cook for 6 minutes — once cooked, let them cool for a few minutes and carefully remove the shell. 6. Add the mushrooms to the large pot, mixing this with the eggplant for a minute. 7. Then add all of the remaining liquids — stock, water, mirin, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce and fish sauce. Simmer for 12 minutes. 8. Toss the frozen dumplings into the broth and cook further 8 minutes. 9. Meanwhile, cook your noodles in a separate pot. Once cooked, drain and serve.
To serve: Place the raw zucchini in the bottom of the bowl with the finely sliced spinach, add the noodles and the dumplings with the vegetable broth. Slice your boiled egg in half to add to the bowl, then sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced spring onions.
Note: You can add any other vegetables that you have in the fridge, or substitute the dumplings for some prawns.
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