While the country is still reeling from Cyclone Gabrielle, many are still suffering the effects of her destruction (and likely will be for a long time to come), with whole regions in desperate need of personnel, essential items and financial aid. Here, we have rounded up some helpful resources for anyone who wants to lend a hand.
Givealittle
While Stuff’s Givealittle page (here) has already raised over $1 million (set to be evenly distributed between the Red Cross and Mayoral Relief Funds in regions still in a state of emergency), there is also a raft of personal Givealittle campaigns related to those affected by the cyclone, here. A little really will go a long way.
Tāmaki Donation Drive
Tomorrow, (Saturday the 18th of February) from 9am until 5pm, there will be a locally-organised donation drive for Hawke’s Bay taking place at the Strive Community Trust — 253 Buckland Road, Mangere. They are looking for donations of baby formula, milk powder, nappies, wipes, gas burners, clothing and essential items, activities for toddlers and kids, hygiene items, sanitary items, clean blankets, sleeping bags and camping gear (tents, air beds etc). This is an easy way for Aucklanders who are in a position to help, to get essentials into the hands of those who really need them. Follow Shane Young’s Instagram for up-to-date information on the drive and what is needed.
Honest Wolf
New Zealand business Honest Wolf has set up a donation option on their online store whereby people can make financial contributions that will be distributed directly to the North Island farming community. You can donate anywhere between $5 and $500.
Federated Farmers
Given the devastation that Cyclone Gabrielle caused to farms across the North Island, Federated Farmers has set up a dedicated bank account for donations that will go towards supporting farmers in flood-affected communities. Federated Farmers of New Zealand (Inc) 03-0306-0626460-000
Volunteering
If you want to lend a hand (literally), there are a number of ways that you can help those effected by the cyclone. Depending on where you live, there are volunteer organisations in every region, from Northland to Auckland to Waikato to Bay of Plenty to Hawke’s Bay. There is also the Student Volunteer Army which is currently calling on volunteers to join them in helping affected communities. You can sign up, here.
Orange Sky
Orange Sky is a not-for-profit organisation that typically provides those experiencing homelessness with free laundry services and access to warm showers across New Zealand. It is currently responding to the need created by the widespread displacement of people from their homes following Cyclone Gabrielle. This is an essential service to support and you can do so by donating here.
No Probs Delivery Truck
Set to drive a large truck down to Hawke’s Bay on Monday, No Probs Delivery in Takapuna is accepting donations of non-perishable food, water, clothing (all ages) shoes, batteries and torches to 94 Anzac Street, Takapuna over the weekend.
HUHA: Helping You Help Animals
This essential service is dedicated to teaching empathy to the community and providing shelter for those less fortunate animals that struggle to survive in today’s disposable culture. HUHA runs shelters across New Zealand and has currently set up special evacuation centres for animals in Auckland and Hawke’s Bay that have been affected by the cyclone. Supporting this very worthy cause is easy, simple text HUHA to 4463 to donate $3.
We’ve said it once but we’ll say it again, there is nothing quite like the experience of settling into Faraday’s Bar for a delicious bite and something to drink — particularly after a day of shopping. Nestled along one side of the luxury department store, Faradays, in Parnell, this dining destination is the epitome of elegance, from its exquisite table settings and impeccable service to its carefully-considered menu and impressive wine list.
Now, Faraday’s Bar is launching a new seasonal menu, created in collaboration with renowned private chef, Anthony Price which will be available from Thursday to Sunday. Here, diners will find an array of mouth-watering dishes all of which showcase the freshest ingredients, underpinned by delicate Japanese flavours. Handily, everything on the menu is gluten-free, and most are dairy-free too.
For those seeking the full experience, we recommend booking at least 24 hours ahead to be able to partake in options like the Temaki Box (allowing you to roll your own sushi), the Nigiri Boat (with tamagoyaki) and the exceptional Hibachi Grilled Scotch Fillet (served with truffle tarragon wagyu-fat-mayo and togarashi kewpie).
That said, even if you decide to drop in on a whim, there are plenty of delectable a la carte options on this menu too. Think sushi rolls with spicy tuna, fresh salmon or just avocado, tataki dishes with either Angus pure eye fillet beef or peppered venison — both served with truffle frites and tsuyu dressing. There is also an unforgettable kingfish ceviche with togarashi spice, coconut and lime and yuzu cucumber.
Ensuring that every meal here ends on a high note, two new desserts have been added to wrap up the offering perfectly. Chocolate fiends will find comfort in the Dark Chocolate Delice, served with either mandarin or raspberry on an almond base. While those seeking something a little more fruity will delight in the Clafoutis Dessert with yuzu fromage.
In addition, Faraday’s Bar is introducing a rotating Champagne cocktail of the month, kicking off with the new Faradays 75. A take on the classic French 75 cocktail, this tasty tipple is made with Veuve Clicquot, Roku gin and fresh lemon, and will sit alongside Faraday’s Bar’s comprehensive wine menu, with an offering that spans lauded drops from the finest makers in New Zealand and Europe.
Only available from Thursday to Sunday, this new menu will run in conjunction with Faraday’s Bar’s classic Kitchen Menu, available from Tuesday to Friday, on which you will find an array of delectable seasonal dishes like market fish crudo, burrata with heirloom tomatoes and wood-fired bread with honeycomb, whipped goats cheese and truffle oil.
Whatever your proclivity, there’s no denying that Faraday’s Bar is cementing its reputation as one of the best places to dine in Auckland, as perfect for a quick meal or drinks with friends as it is for a longer, drawn-out lunch. And if you are yet to try the offering, this exceptional new menu is the only excuse you need.
Set on a sunny corner of Jervois Road is a beautiful new haven for health. Liquid Lightning is the brainchild of naturopath Grace Miller and Jane Wilson (a wellness entrepreneur who established the Exercise Room in 2004 as the first luxury gym in New Zealand) and has opened as the perfect place for those seeking to kick-start their day, boost their mood or find a place to escape for a moment of peace. Here, between raw stone bench tops and lilac floors, punters will find cabinets lined with fresh-pressed juices, a menu of nutrient-dense smoothies and coolers dosed with adaptogens, fresh coffee and an array of natural health products and supplements.
“I wanted to create a space where the people could start making their health a habit, and an important part of their daily routine,” Miller explains, going on to tell me that what really sets Liquid Lightning apart, is its focus on functional health, grounded in proven wellness practices. “There is no skimping on ingredients here,” she emphasises. “Every drink on our menu is made with medicinal doses of supplements and adaptogens to offer a real, noticeable effect on mood and overall health.” Indeed, Miller is working to prove the true power of natural, food-based remedies when prepared by someone who knows what they’re doing. The drinks at Liquid Lightning, whether you opt for a juice, a smoothie or something else, not only promise to boost mood and make you feel physically better but are making it easier than ever to prioritise your health and lay some good foundations for the year ahead.
In Liquid Lightning’s large juice fridge, you will find options like the ’04’, made with pineapple, cucumber, jalapeño, ginger, lemon and mint, designed to help with regularity, enhance enzymes and give an endorphin boost. The ’07’ is another standout, made with blueberry, apple, basil and tulsi to deliver a strong dose of antioxidants and help with muscle recovery and emotional balance. Those seeking a serious hit of greens will find it in the ’03’, where cos, celery, spinach, parsley, fennel and lime make for a mineral-rich concoction that will cleanse the kidneys and give a burst of phytonutrients.
There is also a menu of satiating smoothies for those seeking something more substantial. Made to order and packed with functional doses of supplements and fresh ingredients, these drinks offer a healthy pick-me-up to cure any craving. The Morning Glory, for instance, will start any day with a bang thanks to its potent combination of cold brew coffee, cacao, MCT oil, coconut milk, a medicinal mushroom blend, vanilla, cinnamon, dates, tocos, and a touch of chai spice. This particular combination harnesses healthy fats to deliver sustained energy throughout the day, as well as fibre to support bone health and subtle spices to soothe digestion and balance blood sugar. Tocos are rice bran solubles that are very high in vitamin E and work to protect and nourish the skin.
Elsewhere, the Glow Up smoothie is an anti-inflammatory concoction that is said to bolster the immune system thanks to its combination of strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, bananas, goji berries, coconut oil, marine collagen, l-glutamine and buckwheat crackle. It is said to be able to help with eye and skin health thanks to the powerful antioxidants delivered by the berries and the gut-soothing and microbiome-boosting benefits of l-glutamine.
Liquid Lightning’s menu also features a raft of Iced Coolers, each designed as a refreshing thirst quencher, packed with adaptogens. For those unfamiliar, an adaptogen refers to certain foods, mushrooms, herbs and plants that both protect the body and help it heal from the effects of stress (the root cause of numerous ailments). They are considered nature’s antibiotics and are some of the most effective remedies against illnesses.
If you’re feeling low, opt for the Adrenal Cocktail, made with fresh orange juice, coconut water, ocean minerals, rhodiola and sea salt. Rhodiola is a traditional Chinese medicine known for its fortifying properties. When ingested, it can encourage endurance, combat fatigue, lower cortisol and increase cardiovascular function. The inclusion of sea salt also makes this drink deeply hydrating and encourages better blood flow and oxygenation throughout the body.
Alternatively, the Island Time cooler is perfect for those seeking a skin boost. It is made with pineapple, cucumber, mint and sparkling water and is packed with marine collagen — the key ingredient in achieving a glowing visage.
Other adaptogenic benefits can be garnered from Liquid Lightning’s coffee offering, where iced lattes are laced with a range of supplements to deliver an added boost to your morning Joe. The Sesame Sunrise offers a delicious twist in the form of cold brew coffee combined with tahini, black sesame and shatavari (an energising adaptogen known for delivering radiant skin and hair and supporting women’s hormonal health), whereas the Too Matcha sees a classic matcha latte bolstered with coconut butter.
Alongside all the delicious drinks, Miller explains that there will also be Supreme Coffee on filter, a selection of salads and small bites and a line-up of high-quality, practitioner-only supplements and health products for those who want to continue their health journey at home. We hear that there will also be a raft of juice and drink subscription offerings coming in the near future, which will be designed to help you address specific health concerns from the comfort of your home. (Watch this space.)
Drawing us in with its beautiful fit-out and keeping us there with its nutritious beverages, Liquid Lightning is the perfect place to recharge, relax and rediscover your sense of wellbeing. Here, health has been bottled, and for once we’re buying into the hype.
Liquid Lightening has now closed its Jervois Road store.
New York’s most recent Fashion Week reminded us that even amid uncertainty, there is always beauty in looking ahead. Runways were set against grand architectural backdrops (from the New York Public Library to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum), and designers revealed ready-to-wear collections with just the right balance of drama and sensibility. With garments abundant in luxurious fabrics, captivating colours and sleek shapes, read on to discover five key, highly-wearable style trends for Fall 2023.
Trend one: Dramatic hemlines
From left: Rodarte, Rodarte, Carolina Herrera, Tory Burch.
There was no shortage of long, flowy, and dramatic hemlines on the runway in all colours of the rainbow. However, it was classic black that left a lasting impression, especially through sheer yet tasteful or gleaming fabrications, paired with a chic boot or pump heel.
Trend two: Striking greens
From left: Ulla Johnson, Tory Burch, Carolina Herrera, Brandon Maxwell.
From deep emeralds to earthy olive tones, striking greens proved just how perfect they were for making a beautifully bright statement, whether in the form of an evening gown or incorporated into everyday attire.
Trend three: Luxurious leather
From left: Brandon Maxwell, Ulla Johnson, Proenza Schouler, Simkhai.
Leather trench coats, high-waisted maxi skirts and cropped garments exuded a contemporary vibe, taking classic staples to new heights and exemplifying trans-seasonal dressing at its finest. Some pieces went so far as to feature shearling accents, offering a more grounded, cosy feel.
Trend four: Exquisite embellishments
From left: Rodarte, Carolina Herrera, Rodarte, Carolina Herrera.
Through considered colourways and sophisticated silhouettes, a grown-up, romantic form of dopamine dressing was displayed through sparkles, embellishments and floral motifs, inspiring us to reconsider our party dressing — and perhaps even our workwear ensembles.
Trend five: Timeless tailoring
From left: Tory Burch, Carolina Herrera, Simkhai, Tory Burch.
Tailoring adopted a relaxed approach, with oversized fits cinched at the waist with a belt for good measure. Relaxed trousers were perfectly balanced with structured blazers, and monochrome hues endured.
With the last of New York’s Fashion Week showings ending this week, the new Fall collections showing over the rest of fashion month promise to be nothing short of magnificent. After all, fashion’s beauty is found in its resplendent ability to reinvent our wardrobes and transform our moods, season after season.
In the wake of his father, John Croucher’s, passing in 2021, artist Luke Jacomb returned to the ideas that the two of them had explored in their first collaborative exhibition in 2019 — ‘Alembics and Cucubitas: A New Glass Vernacular’. It was an exploration of alchemy and glass science, themes which Jacomb is now revisiting and weaving into new forms for his latest collection, Mercurio, exhibiting at Masterworks Gallery from this Saturday. The vibrant colours and larger scale of these works not only reflect Jacomb’s emotional journey through the grief of loss, but they speak to his personal growth, too. For the artist, revisiting the alembics is a way to reconnect with his father, see him in every piece, and forge a connection that spans the past, present and future.
Left to right: Chariot of Selene, Helios Rides.
Jacomb created Mercurio’s works in Seattle, the current centre for glass art in North America, where he enlisted the help of fellow glass artist and friend Dan Friday, a Seattle native and member of the Lummi Nation, giving the works an unusual provenance. Seattle holds a special place in the artist’s heart, having lived and worked there as both a production and fine artist, forging lasting friendships along the way.
Left to right: Courtship of Persephone, Muse of Apollo.
Mercurio takes its name from the Italian word for Mercury, a substance prized for its unusual chemical properties, and the Roman name for Hermes, the patron god of alchemists. With roots in Egypt and Islam, alchemy was grounded in the idea of transmutation — the process of turning base metals into gold and silver. The creation of gold ruby glass for instance (something that can be seen in this exhibition), relied on the discovery of how to dissolve gold using Aqua Regia. For this, tin metal was added to produce Purple of Cassius, a key ingredient in introducing gold into the glass melt and creating a striking ruby colour.
Left to right: The Eye of Horus, Ra’s Nile.
Glass, with its unique combination of fragility and durability, has retained its magical appeal in the modern age. It is a material that permeates every aspect of our lives, from the most petite water glass to the grandest stained-glass windows of Notre Dame. And while the process of creating coloured glasses may be more scientifically viable today than it was several thousand years ago, it remains no less visually arresting and mystical in its ability to enchant us.
The Lukeke Design Deflated Lamp/Pendant. Photograph for www.karakter.co.nz by Sena Akpalu.
In celebration of the new exhibition, showcased at Masterworks Gallery between Saturday the 18th of February and Saturday the 18th of March, we are giving one lucky Denizen the chance to win a coveted Lukeke Design Deflated Lamp/Pendant in the colour of their choosing (as seen here). To enter, simply click here, or enter your details below.
At-home beauty tech is about the best way to take your skincare routine to a whole new level. From wands to amp-up the effects of serums, to lights designed to smooth out fine lines, these helpful beauty tech tools are utterly essential for any skincare routine (and will make a real difference).
Shani Darden Facial Sculpting Wand Drawing on the philosophies of her facials that have amassed a cult following, aesthetician Shani Darden’s Facial Sculpting Wand offers the same vibration therapy she uses to firm and contour the complexions of her celebrity clientele. In as little as a week, wrinkles appear smaller and skin more supple, earning the sleek sculpting wand a well-deserved place on our beauty essentials list.
SolaWave Red Therapy Designed to be super convenient without compromising on quality, SolaWave’s Red Therapy Skincare Wand acts as both a gua sha and a light therapy device to depuff and energise skin on the fly. Slim and chic, it will easily fit into any cosmetics pouch for necessary travel and midday touch-ups.
Nurse Jamie Super-Cryo Massaging Orb This revolutionary new body and face duo combines the simplicity of cryotherapy with the indulgence of massage. Intended to be stored in the freezer, then worked across the face, these beauty tech tools invite a new kind of ritual that improves circulation and releases tension; both key elements for an eternal glow. www.net-a-porter.com
Vanity Planet’s Hot and Cold Smart Facial Steamer Best compared to a contrast therapy session for your face, this sink-side steamer manipulates the pores to allow for potent product penetration and moisture retention and eliminates any bacteria concealed underneath the skin barrier. In the thick of summer, it offers an utterly refreshing mist of cool air, too.
TheraFace Pro Marrying all of our most sworn-by skincare devices is the TheraFace Pro — soon to officially launch in New Zealand. Combining the cleansing action of a Foreo, the microcurrents of a NuFace and the LED light of a Déesse Pro, alongside TheraGun’s signature massage function, it is a simple tool to combat all manner of skin sins. Simply swap out the heads to create your own bespoke beauty ritual.
At Azabu Mission Bay, the essence of Japanese culinary heritage meets contemporary elegance. And now, as the restaurant welcomes its new world-class chef Darren Johnson, diners are in for a compelling new experience. Johnson brings a robatayaki-style approach to cooking, an ancient technique of fireside cooking over a charcoal grill, poised to elevate Azabu’s offering even further.
Spending over half of his career honing his skills over a robata grill, Johnson is a seasoned expert in this art. Cooking over charcoal imbues dishes with an almost primal BBQ flavour, and controlling the fire and adjusting the height of the cooking is a delicate balancing act that requires discipline, focus, and precision. As Johnson tells me, a kitchen without a robata grill is almost unfamiliar to him, and the flavour imparted by charcoal is unmatched.
With the unique flavours of expertly prepared meats, seafood and vegetables cooked to perfection over live fire, Azabu’s indulgent menu will showcase this traditional cooking method and offer diners an authentic taste of Japanese culture — anyone who’s tasted the results will guarantee the payoff is worth it.
Situated in an iconic spot by the water, Azabu Mission Bay is truly a hub for Japanese cuisine with a modern touch. The restaurant strongly emphasises fresh ingredients, high-quality products, and traditional cooking methods that complement the robata, offering a trifecta of indulgent food, flavourful cocktails and heavenly views.
To celebrate the launch of the new robata menu at Azabu Mission Bay, we have the chance for one lucky Denizen to win* a dining experience for four people, valued at $500. Visit our Instagram post below to enter. *Ts&cs apply.
In our experience, the easiest way to sweeten a workday is with lunch to look forward to (especially when easing back into the year). Should you need to land a deal, boost morale within the team or simply incorporate some food-based joy into your day, Auckland restauranteurs will always deliver. Next time you need to book a quick and easy corporate lunch, there’s an offering sure to impress from our definitive guide on where to find the most delicious weekday lunches in Auckland.
Harbour Eats For something cheap and cheerful but always certifiably delicious, Commercial Bay’s Harbour Eats is a destination we return to time and time again. Offering a somewhat elevated take on the classic food court, Harbour Eats takes up the entire third floor of the Commercial Bay precinct. It features micro-destinations from your favourite purveyors like Fatimas, Bird on a Wire and Wise Boys, and lesser-known favourites like South American Oven and Sunny Town.
Gochu If you’ve got time for a long lunch (this is one instance where we suggest making the time), Gochu’s ‘Leave it to the Chef’ lunch is a delightful way to treat yourself and your colleagues to a culinary adventure. With this menu option, you’ll discover why Gochu is one of Commercial Bay’s most popular eateries, as you indulge in dishes like the famed fried chicken sliders and the delicious crispy eggplant — the latter a dish that’s sure to change the way you think about vegetables.
Mr Morris Corporate lunches often call for a bespoke menu — a notion in which Britomart’s Mr Morris is well versed. Rare are the times you’ll find three courses served in 45 minutes, but here, the kitchen’s understanding of a one-hour lunch break has this down to a fine art. If you let the team know when booking, you’ll receive a quick appetiser on arrival, shortly followed by a seasonal entree to share. This is followed by your choice of main, which comes with a divine seasonal side. The beauty of this menu is that it frequently changes, so you’ll never get bored.
Gochu
SPQR Famously home to one of the City’s most beloved long lunches, with a sought-after vantage point of Ponsonby Road, SPQR is just as divine on a weekday as it is on the weekend. Its tailored working lunch menu allows you the time for two delicious courses (or three, should you be craving tiramisu for dessert), beginning at $50 per person. On this menu, you can choose your own entree and main from a curated selection of SPQR favourites (seared scallops with organic corn and chorizo and the vegan spaghettini, please), which makes it a quick, easy and always impressive choice for lunch.
Chur Bae Since opening in level two of City Works Depot last year (where The Botanist once stood), Chur Bae has garnered a devoted following of local gourmands who adore its divine, Korean-inspired menu. If you can get your hands on one of the sought-after chicken sandos, it makes for the perfect lunch to go.
Huami Yum cha has long been a favourite mode of communal dining, and with Huami’s elevated offering, we’ve never been more convinced. Available from Wednesday until the end of the week, this workday lunch option is an easy way to keep everyone in the group happy and encourage compelling table conversation. While Huami’s menu is expansive, it would be remiss not to order a few servings of the beloved dim sim (the squid ink and prawn are sensational) and the steamed barbecued chicken bun, too.
Deli de Bossi An idyllic grab-and-go destination, Deli de Bossi (the younger sister to the delicious new restaurant Bossi next door) is a destination you’d do well to visit. With an authentic Italian offering, stop by for everything from fresh pastries and shaved meats to the sought-after meals to go.
Milenta Since opening earlier this year to long-awaiting crowds, we’ve been impressed by everything coming out of Milenta’s kitchen, courtesy of Head Chef Elie Asaf’s inimitable talents. Lunches here are another affair and while rumour has it we should expect a new menu in the coming weeks, our favourites of the moment include the pork, paying homage to the restaurant’s Argentinian roots, and the ceviche, which is just as visually pleasing as it is utterly mouthwatering.
The Brit Those seeking a casual long-lunch that could easily roll into a few afternoon drinks would do well to call into The Brit. The epitome of a good gastropub, the menu here focuses on pub classics done well — and an expansive drink offering to match. We’d recommend the Smashed Wagyu Burger if you’re feeling indulgent or the Green Bowl topped with grilled chicken for something more virtuous.
Milenta
The Store This Britomart icon offers the best of both worlds — a deliciously easy restaurant where you can meet friends at a moment’s notice and a takeaway outpost at the back, always perfect for a coffee or sandwich on busy work days.
Ahi Regardless of the occasion, Ahi is a restaurant set to impress. Over lunch, we suggest you opt for the set menu, which provides a concise offering of the revered cuisine for which this Commercial Bay restaurant is known. The Cambridge asparagus with bresaola, mushroom and hollandaise is a virtuous start to any meal, paving the way for Ben Bayly’s famed wild red deer striploin — one of our favourite game dishes in the City. Last but not least, we recommend you finish off lunch with the naked mallowpuff, sure you see you through any potential afternoon slump.
Taco Medic The second Auckland destination for these beloved Queenstown tacos, Taco Medic on Quay Street is perfect for an inner-city lunch on the fly. Cheap and cheerful, but still totally tasty (and entirely gluten-free), it’s a delightful lunch for anyone within the Quay Street precinct.
Federal Delicatessen From Al Brown, this CBD stalwart is Auckland’s answer to the classic New York deli. Here, food is simple, flavourful and utterly indulgent, and guarantees to offer a satiating meal at every sitting. We suggest one of the sandwiches or salads if you’re seeking something light, although a side of Montreal poutine never goes amiss.
Faraday’s Bar Intimate in its nature, at Faraday’s Bar, impeccable service is always guaranteed. The menu here is refined, allowing diners the freedom to choose without worrying about whether they’ll make their next meeting. Seasonally driven and always changing so as to incorporate the freshest ingredients, we are currently loving Faraday’s Bar’s smoked beetroot and avocado, but have to admit that the gnocchi with prawns, charred tomato smoked butte and ‘nduja is also utter perfection.
Onemata
Onemata It goes without saying that one of our favourite parts of Park Hyatt is the inimitable food offering from it’s beloved dining outposts. Onemata, the crown jewel of their offering, has recently announced its Express Lunch menu, where diners can choose a starter and a main (or a main and a dessert) for a mere $55. This offering is available both Thursdays and Fridays, from 12pm until 2.30pm.
Sìso This Remuera favourite offers one of the most delightful lunches on the block. From Wednesday until Sunday, you can make like the locals and devour some of Sìso’s most beloved dishes. Begin with a choice of crispy calamari or a spinach filo pie (which comes doused in brown butter sauce) before being treated to a grilled chicken salad or hand-cut linguini with Skull Island prawns and fermented chilli as the tour de force. Of course, like all good lunches, Sìso’s should be paired with a glass of wine.
Alma This Britomart destination is one we find ourselves frequenting far too often, which is a testament to Chef Jo Pearson’s innovative Andalusian cuisine. Offering the same menu as its delicious dinners, we think it’s the perfect lunch option for when you’ve got a little extra time to spare.
Ebisu Here, in the heart of Downtown Auckland, this Britomart stalwart offers an Express Menu for those needing a good meal in the midst of a busy day. Here, Ebisu offers a selection of its most beloved Japanese dishes, including a chef’s selection of fresh market sashimi and the seared Angus beef tataki to begin, before one of three hero mains (we can never look past the teriyaki chicken). Ebisu is our favourite for a reason — there’s no denying its greatness.
Ebisu
Odettes Should you need a quick catch-up with your team or somewhere to grab a swift bite to eat, Odettes is our go-to for more than just the convenient location. Its lunch menu is ideal for those busier days, with tasty bites and satiating options depending on what you are after. Truthfully, we would eat the buttermilk fried chicken savoury crepe with chipotle, peanut and chilli salsa all day if we could.
The Lodge Bar & Dining As perfect for drinks and a light snack with clients as it is a three-course meal with friends, The Lodge Bar & Dining is a menu that’s always divine for a midweek lunch. With a burgeoning oyster menu, delicious pasta, and a 32-day dry-aged steak that’s genuinely unrivalled, we’d suggest this as your next lunch-date destination.
Williams Eatery Lunchtimes at Williams are always delicious, with a menu that feels like a refined take on the all-day brunch. For a midday pick-me-up, we rarely look past the Eggplant Pita with chilli, tamarind and herbed tahini, but we have it on good authority that the Heirloom Tomato Gnocchi is absolutely to die for.
Andiamo Another destination for a long lunch classic, Andiamo’s midday menu is delightful — and just the kind of lunch set to impress at this time of year. Offering their same beloved meatballs, pastas and pizzettes from evening service, everything is made with fresh and flavoursome, seasonal ingredients and is made all the more perfect when paired with a flute of Champagne.
Now that the long days are waning, and we find ourselves back in routine behaviours of workdays and school pick-ups, we find ourselves seeking entertainment from home in the evenings. It seems that producers globally are aware of this too, and have been creating an impressive schedule of new TV shows that promise to keep us thoroughly entertained. From eye-opening limited series to binge-worthy new seasons, these are the new TV series in 2023 that everybody should be watching right now.
The Last Of Us
If you’re yet to hear about last week’s episode of The Last of Us, save any spoilers until you’ve started the series. Already hailed as one of the most remarkable screen adaptations of a video game among discerning critics, it is set in post-apocalyptic America after a global pandemic destroys civilisation. A little close to home? Don’t let that put you off. This is an absolute must-watch. Streaming now on Neon and Sky Go.
Break Point
Released at the height of the southern hemisphere’s tennis season, Break Point is the new docu-series that follows some of the most extraordinary talents in the sport across the grand slam circuit. Likened to Drive To Survive for tennis enthusiasts, it is as gripping as a final itself. Streaming now on Netflix.
Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street
If Jordan Belfort was the Wolf, Bernie Madoff was undeniably The Monster of Wall Street. This fascinating documentary chronicles the rise and fall of financier Madoff, orchestrator of one of the biggest Ponzi schemes in Wall Street history, who was ultimately exposed at the onset of the 2008 financial crisis. Streaming now on Netflix.
The Lying Life of Adults
Based on the best-selling novel by Elena Ferrante (My Brilliant Friend), this series takes us to 1990s Naples, where the brash and bold Aunt Vittoria helps her sheltered niece experience a different side of the city, leaving a trail of chaos in her wake. Streaming now on Netflix.
Shrinking
Featuring Harrison Ford at his very best, the new series Shrinking is a case against speaking the truth. Starring Jason Segal as psychologist Jimmy Laird who breaks all the rules by telling his therapy clients precisely what he thinks, this series is equal parts hilarious and moving. Streaming now on Apple TV.
Kaleidoscope
Akin to the choose-you-own path Goosebumps books from our childhoods, Kaleidoscope is a more thrilling five-part series that viewers can watch in any order. Exploring the many different angles and stories behind a heist of $7billion, there are an astonishing 40,320 possible ways in which the show can be watched. Streaming now on Netflix.
Poker Face
This impressive new series ushers in a revival of the ‘case-of-the-week’ murder series, centred around Charlie Cale, a casino worker on the run following a suspicious death, encountering mysteries and solving homicides using her innate ability to detect lies. Streaming now on TVNZ+.
The Snow Girl
Based on the beloved Spanish novel of the same name, this six-episode series follows a young newspaper journalist determined to help two parents find their missing daughter Amaya, who vanishes from a parade in Málaga. Streaming now on Netflix.
With everyone well and truly back in the office for 2023, it’s high time we updated our work wardrobes. Gone are the days of mundane two-pieces, crinkled shirts and dull suiting. Here, we run through a few easy and sleek styles to incorporate into the weekday wardrobe, from power-dressing pieces to casually chic cuts, remembering that dressing for the office today is all about finding the perfect balance between comfort and style.
Tailoring
For women, current trends are taking the classic power suit to the next level. Elevate your office attire with a perfectly-cut blazer and add to the look with a waistcoat rendered in a similar tone. Sharp tailoring is an absolute must for its ability to give your casual, everyday pieces (a midi dress or a pair of jeans, for instance) a more formal edge.
Men, it’s time to swap out boring dress shirts and suit jackets for something a bit more considered and cutting edge. Embrace a fashion-forward look by opting for a double-breasted cut, or by trying something in a more oversized fit. There is a world beyond the suits and chinos you bought five years ago — time to explore it.
From left: Helen Cherry Rae blazer from Workshop, The Garment Marseille vest from Workshop, Embossed Karakoram Pont Neuf jacket from Louis Vuitton, Single-breasted jacket from Prada.
Everyday Accessories
But it’s not just about what you wear, it’s also about the accessories you pair with your outfits. Women can elevate their look with a statement bag, or a piece of exceptional jewellery (Tiffany & Co.’s new Lock Collection has caught our attention for its more contemporary style, perfect for an everyday work look). Men can add a touch of personality with a sleek timepiece or ring.
You can’t forget about the classic white shirt. For women and men, this is a timeless piece, fit for any occasion and able to be dressed up or down with ease. Whether you prefer a fitted, tailored look or a more relaxed, billowy fit, the white shirt is a versatile piece that is an absolute essential in any work wardrobe. Pair it with tailored trousers or a skirt for a sophisticated look, or dress it down with your favourite pair of jeans for something more approachable.
From left: Blouse with ruffles from Christian Dior, Loewe Asymmetric shirt from Faradays, James Perse Standard shirt from Workshop, Short-sleeved shirt from Prada.
Office Denim
While denim has always been a staple of the weekend wardrobe, it has increasingly been making its way into the office environment too, with various iterations of everyday denim now very acceptable to wear at work. Whether you opt for a structured denim shirt or a stylish pair of jeans, denim will add a touch of ‘cool’ to any office outfit. Pair it with crisp tailoring for a more sophisticated look.
From left: Isabel Marant Étoile Nea Jean from Workshop, Washed denim flare trousers from Gucci, Sandro jeans from Commercial Bay, Monogram Patch jeans from Louis Vuitton.
Loafers
Comfort is key when it comes to office footwear, and this season is all about the loafer. The ultimate combination of formal and casual (and the shoe that works with just about anything), the loafer is as chic when paired with womenswear as it is with men’s looks, and whether you opt for a classic black penny loafer or something more statement-making, there’s a style out there to suit every taste.
From left: Boy Loafer from Dior, Isabel Marant Fayor Loafer from Workshop, Leather lug sole Horsebit loafer from Gucci, Major Loafer from Louis Vuitton.
Work Bags
Given that we spend whole days at the office, and a significant amount of time commuting, it’s imperative to have a bag that not only holds all of our essentials but that also doesn’t look out of place against our chic workwear ensembles. From structured totes to sleek satchels and practical crossbody styles, the options here are endless. Our advice? Choose a bag that balances functionality with form perfectly, and don’t be afraid to opt for something that stands out.
From left: Acne Studios Musubi Midi bag from Workshop, Onthego GM bag from Louis Vuitton, Messenger Bag from Burberry, Leather tote bag from Prada.
Grace Atkinson grew up in the South Island before moving to Sydney, then London, then Paris, then New York before returning to Paris (where she has been for the last 10 years). It was her upbringing that inspired in her a passion for interior practices. “I’m really interested in how the objects we surround ourselves with inform how we live, rest, feel and interact,” Atkinson says below, “I love exploring form, texture and space.” A few months ago, she launched her brand Decima with a series of exquisite, one-off mohair and wool blankets, each in distinctive colours and patterns, created in collaboration with craftspeople from around the world. The brand has been steadily growing ever since, and recently, Atkinson’s creations were part of a group exhibition at Jacqueline Sullivan Gallery in New York. We recently talked to the up-and-coming creative to uncover what drives her unique vision. With a number of plans for the future, Atkinson is certainly one to watch, and her exquisite textiles are the perfect addition to any well-designed space.
Photography by Dan McMahon
Tell me about your background. What took you from New Zealand to living in Paris?
I come from Timaru, but spent much of my childhood in Wanaka, which is now my beloved home base when I visit New Zealand. The immensely beautiful nature and isolation of New Zealand is part of what makes it so special, but as a teenager, I felt a pull towards big cities and everything they could offer in terms of culture, diversity and opportunities. Entering into the world of fashion, I did a stint in Sydney, before moving to London and then to Paris around ten years ago. Within that time there were a few years of constant travel to New York, Milan and other parts of Europe for shoots and consulting work. I spent a year living in New York, coinciding with a shift into art and design. Paris is absolutely my adopted home, but as a New Zealander, I don’t think I will ever take for granted the ease of travel to other countries due to being in such close proximity. It would be hard to give that up!
Where did the idea for Decima start? Why textiles?
Textiles are in my DNA, my Great Grandmother and Grandmother were costume designers and seamstresses and my Mother opened one of the first vintage stores in New Zealand called ‘Collage’ in the early 80s, specialising in pre-20th century pieces. Growing up, my parents had a flooring business so I was surrounded by rugs, carpets and hand-painted tiles from Italy. I have always had a strong interest in interiors and I wanted to engage in a practice where I could explore different ways of composing a home, through texture, form and space. I’m really interested in how the objects we surround ourselves with inform how we live, rest, feel and interact. With Decima I aim to create beautiful pieces that inspire a tender, nurturing and connected home.
“Through Decima, I work with artisans around the world with the aim of preserving traditional techniques that are unfortunately in the process of being lost.”
Tell me about your creative process. What inspires your designs?
I try to remain curious and open everywhere I go, whether I am in the countryside or walking the streets of Paris. A beautiful colour palette will often show itself to me when I least expect it. My design process usually starts with drawing sessions where I will immerse myself in music and just let myself loose with no limitations. From there I do a lot of editing, and then refining, exploring possibilities in colour and scale. Decima is still a relatively new project so I try to leave a lot of space for my voice to evolve, which at this stage means my approach is quite intuitive and emotional. I only want to make things that excite me.
Where are your Decima pieces made?
Through Decima, I work with artisans around the world with the aim of preserving traditional techniques that are unfortunately in the process of being lost. I am currently working with artisans in Ukraine, employing techniques developed in the 14th Century. It is such an honour working with these gifted women that continue forward with absolute strength despite the devastation they are currently facing. I am also working with a family-owned textile factory that was founded in Spain in the 1930s whose artisanal processes and techniques of this region date back to the 15th Century.
Photography by Alexandra Nataf
Who are some creatives you look up to?
I recently designed some unique pieces for the debut show at Jacqueline Sullivan Gallery in Tribeca, New York. It was an absolute honour to have my work shown with such talented designers and artists as Isabella Toledo, Kristin Dickson-Okuda, Jordan McDonald, Valentina Cameranesi Sgroi, Natalie Weinberger and Christian + Jade. Also to work with such brilliant creatives that are dedicated to a singular vision, Jacqueline Sullivan, Ruby Woodhouse and Abel Sloane.
Looking to the future, what can we expect from Decima next?
Through Decima, I will continue to explore textural possibilites for the home, with many more blankets, rugs, throws and giant floor cushions to come.
A worthy cause for celebration, Pride is a movement ensuring our LGBTQIA+ community is liberated, thriving and connected as they embrace their authentic identities. This month marks an opportune time to show our support for the community — there’s an exhilarating programme of events in Auckland offering everything from experimental live art to extravagant drag performances. Featuring some of Aotearoa’s best talent and emerging creatives, consult our definitive guide for everything to see, experience and do for Auckland Pride 2023.
Irregular Objects.
Irregular Objects
Drag and ballroom take over as some of the City’s finest performers feature in Irregular Objects, showcasing their most fabulous and authentic selves through performance art, vogue and burlesque. A breathtaking jubilee of self-expression, prepare to be wowed by this unforgettable night out. Saturday 18th February at Raynham Park, Karangahape Road. See here for details.
Show Ponies
Music lovers and literary enthusiasts alike will be delighted by Show Ponies, an indulgent evening where nine poets will take the stage, transforming into pop icons to perform their works while decked in fabulous costumes alongside bright lights, electrifying music, and backup dancers. Forming part of the programme for the Samesame But Different Literary Festival 2023, this is Auckland Pride 2023’s must-see spectacle, so hurry to secure your tickets. Saturday 25th February at Basement Theatre. See here for details.
Pride in the Square.
Pride in the Square
Open-air hub Aotea Square is set to host a multitude of varied performances showcasing queer excellence on Friday the 24th and Saturday the 25th of February. From a DJ set by the iconic Diesel to a screening of a local documentary series Queer and Here to a performance by takatāpui rock band Valkyrie, gather your mates and embrace the celebratory vibes of Auckland Pride 2023 late into the night. 24th – 25th February. See here for details.
Te Tīmatanga
A festival honouring the takatāpui community and their legacy, resilience and lived experiences, there’s a dedicated hub at Albert Park Caretaker’s Cottage where workshops and events will take place. You can also experience the festival in the heart of the City, where art installations and artist talks will take place at the Britomart and Viaduct Harbour precincts. 1st – 26th February. See here for details.
Everything Everywhere All At Once actress Michelle Yeoh.
Silo Cinema Pride Edition: Everything Everywhere All At Once
If we didn’t need yet another reason to watch this queer masterpiece, we were delighted by the recent news that leading lady Michelle Yeoh secured an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. Screening on Friday the 10th of February at Silo Park, we suggest you make a night of it, with a DJ, food trucks, and bar operating from 5pm. Friday 10th February at Silo Park. See here for details.
Pride March
Underpinned by values of solidarity and celebrating all identities, this family-friendly march is a highly-anticipated event on the Auckland Pride 2023 calendar. The march will start on Lorne Street and finish at Takutai Square, Britomart, where food trucks and music await, allowing the community to connect and celebrate in a relaxed atmosphere. Saturday 18th February. See here for details.
The simplest but most effective way to show that you care this Valentine’s Day is by treating your significant other to a night out at one of Auckland’s most romantic restaurants. Despite the occasion still being a few weeks away, we have it on good authority that tables are already filling up fast, so now is the time to book your spot — lest you miss out. From set menus that will set hearts racing, to the perfect ambiance for the occasion, here’s where to celebrate on the 14th of February.
Valentines with Mor at Roses Dining Room
In this highly-anticipated event, Karl and Ophelia Bayly of Roses Dining Room will be welcoming Laura Metcalf and Kelsie Culpan, the duo behind Mor Bakery, to collaborate on a very special, romantic dinner. The carefully-crafted degustation menu will meld Bayly’s unique culinary touch with Metcalf and Culpan’s expert patisserie skills in a series of utterly delicious dishes. There will be two sittings on the night, one at 5:30pm and one at 8pm, and tickets are $150 per head (for the food only) or $220 per head (for the food and drinks pairing). Set to be hugely popular but with only very limited seats available, this is one we suggest booking in immediately. See details and book your table here.
Left: Mor Bakery. Right: Movida.
Pasture, Alpha, Boxer
For all the foodies out there, the clever culinary minds behind lauded institutions Pasture, Boxer and Alpha have created a special Valentine’s Day dinner in which some of the most sought-after signature dishes from all three venues will be on offer. This is a ‘best of’ menu like no other and will see diners able to enjoy dishes like aged wagyu, lobster, caviar, truffles, grilled cheese, summer puffs and more. With four sittings across the three venues available but tickets already almost sold out, this is a one-off event you really won’t want to miss out on. See details and book your table here.
Culprit
Set to charm all the Valentine’s Day punters with its innovative culinary offering, Culprit will be putting on a special seasonal Epic Menu for $114 per person. The menu will include a range of the restaurant’s signature flavourful fare which, due to the restaurant’s focus on seasonal ingredients, tends to change often. That said, those who want to take things up a notch can upgrade their dinner with oysters and Champagne for just $41 per person. And really, is there any other way to celebrate the universal day of love? See details and book your table here.
MoVida
Take Valentine’s Day to new heights at MoVida, where a low-lit ambience and a special set menu will make for a seriously memorable celebration. For $135 per person, MoVida’s four-course Valentine’s Day menu includes housemade sangria on arrival, mouthwatering aperitivo like Jamon Iberico, (aged 24 Months) or lightly-cured Big Glory Bay salmon with beetroot gazpacho and caper berries, a range of tapas including croqueta with lobster, leek, seaweed and sesame salt, a duo of satiating mains (one fish, one lamb) and some very appealing dessert options. See details and book your table here.
Movida.
Sid at The French Cafe
If you’re looking to do something super special, why not secure a table at Sid at The French Cafe? There, the team has created an indulgent, five-course degustation menu which will kick off with rosé and snacks before delving into a feast fit for celebrating love. See details and book your table here.
Faraday’s Bar
As far as Valentines is considered, there are few ways we would rather celebrate than by indulging in Champagne and caviar — and we’re yet to find an experience as indulgent as Faraday’s Bar. If you are seeking a celebration over something sweeter, this offering is pure escapism. Enjoy a half bottle of Ruinart Blanc de Blancs and two perfectly paired desserts (of your choice) for $120, an affair that feels fit to end on. See details and book your table here.
Andiamo
Celebrate with your significant other at this Herne Bay stalwart, where a special, three-course menu will be on offer for $105 per person from 5pm. There, expect Andiamo’s signature warm service and a raft of delicious dishes that capture the kinds of Italian and Mediterranean flavours we have come to expect from this beloved spot. Think starters like rose veal meatballs with marsala emulsion and shaved mushrooms, followed by mains like First-Light wagyu bavette with fregola, salsa verde, parmesan, rocket or ricotta agnolottiwithzucchini, peas, burnt butter, pecorino, mint, and desserts like a chocolate torta with seville orange and apricot marmalade and lot 8 citrus olive oil. See details and book your table here.
Left: Andiamo. Right: Siso.
Sìso
The intimate, warm dining space of this exceptional Remuera restaurant is the perfect place to celebrate love this Valentine’s Day. There, you and your paramour can indulge in Sìso’s delectable Mediterranean fare before finishing the evening on a high note via a special Valentine’s Day dessert created by Sìso’s Head Chef. Designed to share, the dessert is a Champagne- and rose-whipped panna cotta with macerated strawberries and pomegranate. See details and book your table here.
Pōni
What better way to woo your significant other than with a delicious meal overlooking the sparkling waters of the Waitemata Harbour? For Valentine’s Day, Commercial Bay restaurant Pōni will be putting on a four-course menu of delectable, Asian-inspired dishes, complete with perfectly-matched wine pairings, in an affair that is really not to be missed. Here, you can take your Valentine’s Day celebrations to new heights in more ways than one. See details and book your table here.
Esther
Head down to Viaduct Harbour’s QT Hotel and settle in at its lauded restaurant Esther for a night of romance. Putting on a specially-designed Valentine’s Day menu for those looking to celebrate, Esther will be offering starters like Mangonui line-caught Kingfish crudo with anchovy essence and Calabrian chilli, and chargrilled Golden Queen peaches with stracciatella, as well as a mouthwatering main of pistachio-herbed lamb rack served with red wine jus, butternut pumpkin, barrel-aged feta and duck-fat potatoes with garlic and rosemary. To finish, the dessert on offer is Sean’s chocolate vacherine, served with hazelnut gelato. Delicious. See details and book your table here.
Esther.
Bivacco
Take your Valentine’s Day celebrations down to the waterfront and secure one of the best seats in town at Bivacco. Gaze across the beautiful Viaduct Harbour while enjoying a range of delicious dishes from this restaurant’s special Valentine’s Day set menu. For $135 per person, diners will be treated to a drink with oysters and caviar mozzarella sticks on arrival, followed by a selection of antipasti like beef carpaccio and Wairarapa crayfish mafaldine with bisque and black pepper sauce, and then enjoy mains of either barbecue Wagyu beef tongue or seared Big Eye tuna, before finishing with a selection of desserts (including Bivacco’s famous tiramisu). See details and book your table here.
Non Solo Pizza
Park up at this Parnell institution for an evening of love like the Italians do. Non Solo Pizza will be putting on a special a la carte menu for Valentine’s Day which will include a drink on arrival (a flute of Veuve Clicquot, a Peroni or an Aperol spritz), followed by your choice of entree, main and dessert. Dishes will include burrata with roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, croutons, vin cotto and basil, butternut squash risotto with almonds, balsamic, pecorino, crispy sage and truffle oil, beef fillet with oyster mushrooms, vine tomatoes, garlic herb butter and porcini mushroom cream and chocolate cake or tiramisu for dessert. The dinner is $135 per person with the option to add fresh oysters or a formaggio platter (with delicate cheeses, seasonal chutneys and crispy ciabatta) to your dining experience for extra. See details and book your table here.
Bar Magda
One of the cosiest spots in Auckland to while away a romantic evening, Bar Magda is the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year. There, diners can choose from two special menus on offer: ‘A Seafood Affair’ or ‘A Meat Lover’s Delight’. The former is $175 per person and entails a three-course sharing-style menu that is set to include a whole crayfish. The latter, on the other hand, is $120 per person, and being a three-course sharing-style menu will hero Bar Magda’s award-winning lamb ribs alongside a few more hearty delights. Both menu options will afford diners two aperitifs and one cocktail per person, or a bottle of wine to share. If last year’s Valentine’s Day affair at Bar Magda is anything to go by, this will be popular, so book now. See details and book your table here.
(It’s worth noting too that this month sees the return of Bar Magda to its usual operating hours, after a necessary pause for summer reprieve.)
Bar Magda.
Kingi
Head to this beautiful downtown restaurant at the base of Hotel Britomart for a three-course affair this Valentine’s Day. The menu has been designed to highlight some of kingi’s signature dishes and will feature a selection of antipasti to share (including green-lipped mussels with nduja and fromage blanc roulade with radish and herbs de Provance) followed by a choice of main and a special dessert for $80 per person. See details and book your table here.
Ebisu
One of our favourite Japanese stalwarts is putting on a special Valentine’s Day set menu for either $135 per person, or $170 for premium sake pairings with your food. Kicking off with a flute of Veuve Clicquot on arrival, the dinner will run through a series of delicious starters and a fresh sashimi platter, before launching into dishes like scampi tempura, beef tatami nigiri, salmon and avocado maki rolls, seared duck breast and pan-seared Big Glory Bay salmon. There is even the option for diners to upgrade their culinary experience with a special A5 Kagoshima wagyu for an additional $88 per head. Finally, a delicate dessert platter for two will round off what is set to be a seriously tasty affair. See details and book your table here.
Azabu Mission Bay & Ponsonby
Both of Auckland’s Azabu locations will be putting on delightful set menus for Valentine’s Day. Designed as tapas-style banquets, the menus will highlight some of the best dishes from Azabu’s lauded a la carte offering, and will see diners treated to drinks on arrival (either an Asahi Super Dry, a flute of Mumm Champagne or a Sakura Blossom Rose spritz) followed by four delicious courses. Expect dishes like coconut kingfish ceviche, California lobster rolls, chicken tsukune with Sancho pepper and garlic mayo and Nikkei steak with braised shiitake, ponzu butter and spring onion. If you want, you can upgrade your Nikkei steak to Japanese wagyu for an additional $32 per person. See details and book your table here.
In the hearts of the discerning diners of Remuera, Thai Village holds a special place. Amid a sea of Asian-fusion restaurants, this iconic establishment stands out for its steadfast commitment to traditional Thai cuisine. And, after 16 months of renovations, the doors have again opened, revealing a stunningly chic interior and a breathtaking glass pavilion just waiting for sunny summer days (which are hopefully on the horizon).
Left: Lamb Rack. Right: Mook Fish Salad.
The menu remains much the same as it has for the last 15 years, with generous portions and a flavour profile unmatched in the area. Fans will be delighted to find all their old favourites alongside a number of new classics. The tender grilled lamb rack with Chef Savang’s special sauce, the Mook Fish with its crumbed market fish, Thai herbs, orange and lemon dressing, and the Red Duck Curry are all must-order dishes. And remember to pair your meal with one of the playful cocktails from the bar, like the Pandan Colada, a unique take on the tropical classic.
Left: Thai Village interiors. Right: Fresh Spring Rolls.
Lunchtime at Thai Village is just as enticing, with its Bottomless Brunch adding a touch of sophistication to the dining experience. This refined offering showcases some of the restaurant’s most beloved dishes alongside an array of celebratory drinks, perfect for a leisurely Saturday in the gorgeous glass pavilion, designed in line with the new 1050 precinct.
Left: Signature Cocktails. Right: Thai Village Glass Pavilion.
But for now, whether it’s a comforting weeknight meal you’re craving (to offer delicious respite from this terrible weather) or you are simply planning a dinner with friends, the new-and-improved Thai Village delivers on all fronts.
Opening hours: Monday — Sunday, 5.30pm until 10pm. Wednesday — Sunday (lunch service), 12pm until 3pm.
As record-breaking downpours wreak havoc around Auckland, the need for relief in the form of essential items, food, clothing, toiletries and more continues to grow. If you’re wondering about the most effective ways to help, we have rounded up some key resources and charities that continue to work around the clock to support the individuals and families most affected by the Auckland floods. We will continue to update the list throughout the day.
Nurturing Families
(Formerly Mummies In Need) Providing essential items, foods and items for families, children and babies, Nurturing Families is taking donations of toothbrushes and toothpaste for adults and kids, shampoo and conditioner, body wash, soap and deodorant, colouring and entertainment items for children and non-perishable and snack food items such as biscuits, chips, cookies and crackers. They are also taking clean blankets and pillows. Drop-offs can be made to 6/42 Henderson Valley Road, Henderson Valley. If donating items is not doable for you, the easiest way to support is via a donation into the charity’s bank account (details in the Instagram below). Or, you can reach out to volunteer your time and help with sorting through donations and running deliveries. See more on their website.
As per the Kindness Collective’s Instagram, they are still taking donations of food items like cereals, canned fruit, coffee, tea, sugar, bread, spreads, cookies, muesli bars, rice, potatoes, canned corned beef, bananas and more. They are also accepting toiletries, clean blankets, towels and pillows and clothing and new socks for kids. Or, you can make a donation. See details on their Instagram below.
The best way to support the Auckland floods relief efforts of the City Mission at this time is via monetary donations.. With the support of the AM Show, and an anonymous donor matching all donations up to the value of $150,000, Auckland City Mission is raising money for its relief fund via a Givealittle page, here. Money will go towards filling thousands of food and hygiene parcels to be distributed throughout the Auckland region, as well as daily hot meals and outreach care for those experiencing homelessness.
Koha Apparel
Having long provided much-needed clean clothing to the most vulnerable in our community, Koha Apparel is welcoming donations of clean, quality clothing and footwear to support anyone who has been affected by the floods. If you have clothing you want to donate, start by filling out Koha Apparel’s donation form on the website, here. You can also make a monetary donation that will support the charity’s efforts.
The ARK Collective Emergency Hub at Wesley Primary School
A Community Emergency Hub has been set up at Wesley Primary School by a local charitable group the ARK Collective (Act of Roskill Kindness). There, teams of tireless volunteers are offering support for community members affected by the floods via food parcels and essential items and services (they have a van equipped with washing machines, dryers and a shower that anyone who has been displaced can use). It is a safe space for people who need it. You can help by donating your time or donating essential items directly to the hub. Be sure to follow both The ARK Collective’s Facebook page and Wesley Primary’s Facebook page for updates throughout the coming days.
Student Volunteer Army
The helpful resource that is the Student Volunteer Army (SVA) is ready to mobilise to help anyone in Auckland with the clean-up that many will have to undertake over the next week or so. If you’re willing and able and are looking for a practical way to get out there and help the community, why not volunteer for the SVA? See more information here. For those needing any non-urgent assistance and clean-up support, simply fill in the form on the SVA website, here, and they will be in touch.
If you have been affected, a helpline has been set up by Auckland Emergency Management for anyone who needs accommodation: 0800 22 22 00. There are alsothree Civil Defence Centres now open and offering safe places to go: – In Kelston at Saint Leonard’s Road School — 15 Leonard’s Road – In Randwick Park, at Manu Tukutuku — 32 Riverton Drive – In Albany, at the Massey University Albany East Precinct — Gate 1/Main Entrance off the Albany Expressway SH17. The centre is set up in the Sir Neil Waters Theatre.
With February (yes, it’s February already) comes an abundance of new cultural inspiration and events to inspire your creativity. After all, we could all use a little entertainment to ease the heaviness of this last week. From sporting events to music festivals, and all of the Pride celebrations and gallery exhibitions in between, our February culture guide rounds up the most exciting of what’s on the horizon. Here is everything to add to your calendar now.
Flume.
Flume
After recently taking out Triple J’s Hottest 100 for a second time (and being the second artist ever to do so), the Australian electronic darlingbrings his one-off headline show to Auckland this month. Celebrating the release of his third studio album, Palaces, expect a show-stopping experience that captures the essence of his latest music alongside renditions of the chart-toppers we all know and adore. Thursday 23rd February, Spark Arena. Tickets available here.
The Heartbreak Choir
With live theatre now well and indeed returned, we’re advocates of this kind of entertainment. To kick off the season, Auckland Theatre Company presents The Heartbreak Choir — a story of challenges and unity in rural Australia. With a hilariously funny cast (and a musically talented one, too), this is a show for those seeking lighthearted joy. Season begins Thursday 16th February. Tickets available here.
NZ Polo Open.
NZ Polo Open
February sees the return of one of our favourite sporting events of the season, the NZ Polo Open. On Sunday the 19th of February, celebrate the final of this legendary competition with an afternoon of horses and other convivial affairs. With two years of covid-related restrictions preventing the event from going ahead, this year’s Open is a cause genuinely worth celebrating. Sunday 19th February, Auckland Polo Club, Clevedon. Tickets available here.
Summer in the Square
To soften the blow of a return to the office, Auckland Live has made the CBD a little more joyous with the launch of its annual series. Over the four weekends of February, discover Fiesta in the Square, Beats in the Square, Circus in the Square and Pride in the Square. These all offer an agenda of live music and performance, food trucks, outdoor films and DJs. More information about Summer In The Square can be found here.
Splore.
Splore
While crowd-favourite Splore is always poised to sell out, and this year was no exception, many tickets are still available on the authorised ticket-reselling platform Tixel. This year’s line-up sees the likes of Future Islands and Drax Project take the stage for this family-friendly event. With tickets a hot commodity, we suggest nabbing any you can find before they disappear again. 25th — 26th February, Tapapakanga Regional Park. Resales available here.
Auckland Pride Celebrations
February marks Pride — an extravaganza celebrating our queer community and the history that endures. We thought this year’s line-up is as expansive as ever and, as such, deserving of its own article, in addition to our February culture guide. Here you’ll discover the best of this year’s Pride calendar.
Rangitoto cast.
Rangitoto
Experience the rich, vivid tales of Kiwi bach culture in the changing landscape of New Zealand with Rangitoto, the latest theatrical production from multi-talented Geoffrey Clendon. This highly anticipated play transports audiences to the picturesque Rangitoto Island during the Great Depression, as two diverse families come together for a festive holiday. Following the island’s bach community, this comedy-drama explores the lives of its eclectic characters as they navigate the shifting societal norms of the era. With an all-star cast that includes Geoffrey Snell, Joseph Wycoff, and Elizabeth Tierney, Rangitoto promises to be a true tour de force. Season begins Thursday 23rd February, The PumpHouse Theatre. Tickets available here.
Ed Sheeran
Bringing his highly-anticipated The Mathematics Tour down under for his first return since 2018 (which ended up being the highest-selling tour in history), pop royalty Ed Sheeran is coming back this month, and we couldn’t be more excited. Set to perform songs from his latest album, alongside crowd-favourite hits from across his career (Thinking Out Loud, The A Team, Lego House), this tour promises to be Sheeran’s most ambitious and most spectacular yet. Friday 10th February, Eden Park. Tickets available here.
Leonardo DiCaprio as Jack Dawson in Titanic.
Titanic 3D
Celebrating 25 years of this heartbreaking epic, Titanic will return to the larger-than-life screen this month in a remastered, 3D addition. Everyone knows the tragic tale, and most audiences are familiar with how this fictionalised story ends, but it will not stop us from embarrassingly sobbing at the cinema this season. Premiering in cinemas Thursday 9th February.
Iliza Back In Action Tour
Rounding out the February culture guide, comedian Iliza Shlesinger is making her highly-anticipated return to the stage with Back in Action, set to grace New Zealand audiences with her humour and timeless wit for a one-night-only performance this month. A multi-talented powerhouse, Shlesinger has made a name for herself as an award-winning comedian, actor, writer, producer, and author. Her devoted fanbase and five highly-acclaimed Netflix stand-up specials add to her name. Tuesday 7th February, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre. Tickets available here.
When looking for places to store our ever-growing collections of books, we turn to new and innovative bookshelves that both serve an organisational purpose and lend own their distinct personality to a space. From standalone bookshelves intended as a fanciful feature in a space, to integrated bookcases designed to meld seamlessly with their surrounds, these essential additions will elevate your home to a land of literary pleasure.
The start of 2023 offers up the best opportunity to tick all the books off our list that we didn’t quite get to last year. Whether you plan on hitting the beach or curling up in a shady spot, these are some of the best books to have on hand this summer, from poignant memoirs to thought-provoking novels and everything in between.
Holiday Reads
Really Good, Actually by Monica Heisey Relatable to those who have found out the hard way that love doesn’t always turn out as anticipated, comedian and essayist Monica Heisey’s breakthrough novel has been touted as the perfect trifecta of hilarious, heartfelt and wise. The story follows Maggie, who, recently divorced at only 29, discovers what it means to be single, and all the arduous uncertainties of modern love.
The Shards by Bret Easton Ellis In Bret Easton Ellis’ latest novel, we are transported to a vibrantly imagined 1981 Los Angeles. The city is plagued by a serial killer, the Trawler, who begins targeting teenagers throughout the city. Amidst this backdrop of fear and uncertainty, a fictionalised Bret and his friends become increasingly paranoid and isolated in their attempts to make sense of the danger around them. The novel delves into the complexities of human emotion — the fleeting nature of innocence, the perilous passage from adolescence to adulthood, and the darker impulses of sex, jealousy, obsession and rage. A gripping and suspenseful exploration of the human experience, written in the inimitable style of Bret Easton Ellis.
Big Swiss by Jen Beagin The streets of Hudson, New York serve as the backdrop for a woman’s journey of self-discovery in Jen Beagin’s novel Big Swiss. As a transcriber for a local sex therapist, she delves into the emotional pasts of others, all the while running from her own. Though she disregards professional ethics by falling for one of her clients, she is unable to control her own heart. The protagonist, shrouded in anonymity as she nicknames him ‘Big Swiss’, becomes a symbol of the human condition, one of contradictions and complexities. Although Beagin’s writing style is marked by frenetic energy, beneath it lies a poignant tenderness. The adaptation of the novel into a television series, starring Jodie Comer, will undoubtedly bring this story to a wider audience.
Dinosaurs by Lydia Millet From a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, this compelling new book follows the story of Gil who, after moving to Arizona to escape heartbreak, finds his life beginning to mesh with those who live in the glass-walled house next door. Emotionally-moving and undeniably sharp, this book grapples with ideas of family and asks where the self ends and where community begins.
Lucy by the Sea by Elizabeth Strout Centred around a divorced couple stuck together and isolated in lockdown, Pulitzer Prize-winning and New York Times Bestselling author Elizabeth Strout, has crafted an exquisite story of human connection, enduring love, loss, despair and hope, set against the arresting backdrop of a swirling, moody sea.
We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman Edith and Ashley have been best friends for over 40 years, but when Edith finds she is dying from ovarian cancer and moves to a hospice, the duo must come to terms with having to let go. Written with unflinching compassion, humour and heartbreaking honesty, this moving novel will leave you laughing through your tears — a true love letter to female friendship.
Marigold and Rose by Louise Glück Written from the perspective of infant twins, this magical, incandescent book by the former Nobel Laureate for Literature, Louise Glück, offers an investigation into the mystery of language and of time itself, as Marigold and Rose come to grips with their new world.
Now is Not the Time to Panic by Kevin Wilson In this exuberant, bighearted novel about secrets, young love and the power of art, two teenage misfits meet one summer and create an enigmatic, anonymous poster that sparks waves of panic in their small town — with ripples that will affect their lives forever.
Butts: A Backstory by Heather Radke Balancing levity with gravity in a literary masterstroke, this fascinating read is the culmination of its author’s rigorous research into the history of human butts. Complex and culturally important in ways that haven’t been explored this deeply before, here, the butt’s significance is analysed in what feels like part deep-dive reportage, part personal journey and part entertaining examination of arguably our most politicised feature.
Real Life Reads
Words and Music: Confessions of an Optimist by Stephen Rubin Stephen Rubin, a man whose career began as a music writer, has left an indelible mark upon the world of publishing. In his memoir, he offers a glimpse into the inner workings of some of the most renowned houses of American letters. He recounts the triumphs and disappointments, the battles and the whispered rumours, with a sharp wit and a discerning eye. This book is a rare and intimate portrait of the literary landscape, one in which books, fame, and the machinery of the industry are entwined. An illuminating look at the world of letters, and the people who shape it.
8 Rules of Love by Jay Shetty The masterful storyteller and beloved podcaster’s latest work is 8 Rules of Love. Here, Shetty draws upon ancient wisdom and contemporary research to provide practical guidance for navigating relationships in all their forms — with others, with ourselves, and with the world at large. He promises to offer tools to help us understand and navigate the complexities of love. This new work, like his first, is sure to be a must-read for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the human experience.
The Creative Act by Rick Rubin In the words of a legendary music producer, who has long held the power to tap into the wellsprings of creativity, comes a book of profound wisdom and artful crafting, born of years of experience and insight. This work, a testament to the creation, the beauty of art, and the journey of the artist, will resonate with writers and creators alike, sparking within them a renewed sense of purpose and direction.
A Book of Days by Patti Smith Offering intimate insight into the mind of this iconic musician, writer and artist, Patti Smith’s new book charts her passions, devotions, obsessions and whims via 356 photographs that take the reader through a single year. In daily notations, Smith offers a snapshot of her life and intriguing dispatches from her travels around the world.
A Private Spy by John le Carré Aside from being acknowledged as one of the greatest writers of our time, John le Carré also led a fascinating life, much of which he documented in letters to various friends and acquaintances, including spies, writers, politicians, artists, actors and public figures. Filled with humour and wit, this compilation offers rare insight into a truly exceptional literary mind.
Wild: The Life of Peter Beard by Graham Boynton Touted as the definitive biography of larger-than-life photographer Peter Beard, this new book by Graham Boynton (a friend of Beard for more than 30 years) captures in meticulous detail, the life and career of the original ‘enfant terrible,’ whose influence in the worlds of art, photography and high society was utterly unparalleled.
Must Reads
Dear Dolly: On Love, Life and Friendship by Dolly Alderton Proving that a problem shared is a problem halved, this new book from the bestselling author of Everything I Know About Love and Ghosts is a compilation of Alderton’s most entertaining, moving and heartfelt ‘Agony Aunt’ letters and responses from her popular Sunday Times Style column.
Lessons by Ian McEwan In his mesmerising new novel, literary giant Ian McEwan offers a powerful meditation on history and humanity, told through the story of one ordinary man’s lifetime. A universal story of love, regret and a restless search for answers, this book proves why its author is considered such a seminal literary figure.
Idol, Burning by Rin Usami The book that took the Japanese literary world by storm, this blistering novel (by a promising young writer) explores fame, heartbreak, obsession and our online culture via a high-schooler’s fascination with the member of a famous boy-band. It is an obsession that pulls her whole world into chaos, when the subject of her adoration is accused of assault.
Art is Life by Jerry Saltz From Jerry Saltz, one of the most prolific, compelling and indispensable cultural voices, with more than two decades of art writing for some of the world’s most lauded publications, this new book offers a real-time survey of contemporary art as a barometer of our times, and delves into the importance of art in our shared human experience.
Novelist as a Vocation by Haruki Murakami For anyone fascinated by the work of Murakami, this iconic (and famously reclusive) writer offers rare insight into his mind, sharing what he thinks about being a novelist, about the role of the novel in society and about his own origins as a writer. Originally released in Japanese in 2015, the book has just been translated to English, so if you have ever wondered what inspires Murakami’s surreal worlds, this is a must-read.
The Passenger & Stella Maris by Cormac McCarthy This two-book masterpiece is the first new release by Cormac McCarthy in more than a decade, and tells stories that overlap and intertwine in a unique way. The Passenger follows the story of a salvage diver shadowed by the ghost of his father and the memory of his sister, a sunken plane, a missing pilot and a conspiracy theory that melds ideas of morality and science. Whereas Stella Maris follows a 20-year-old mathematician who shows up to a hospital with $40,000 in a plastic bag and one request: to not speak about her brother.
Short Stories
The Faraway World by Patricia Engel In The Faraway World, Patricia Engel presents a collection of ten haunting stories set across the Americas, exploring the complexities of migration, sacrifice and moral compromise through the eyes of characters burdened by traumatic pasts. Through her intimate and panoramic storytelling, Engel delves into the liminality of regret, the vibrancy of community, and the epic deeds and quiet moments of love. A New York Times bestselling author and Reese’s Book Club pick, this collection is a must-read.
Liberation Day by George Saunders Dubbed by many as the best short story writer of our time, George Saunders is back with a new collection that sees him turn his uniquely witty, wickedly funny style to ideas of justice, ethics and power. Covering joy and despair, oppression and revolution, fantasy and reality, Saunders’ nine short stories are subversive, profound and memorable.
I Wouldn’t Do That If I Were Me by Jason Gay Written by a sports and humour columnist for the Wall Street Journal, this compilation of essays offers an insightful look at life in the face of huge societal change and discusses a range of topics from parenthood, to marriage, to friendship all with humility, grace and a good laugh.
From family gatherings and long weekend feasts to celebratory dinners, it’s time to host your guests in style. To elevate your next occasion, add a striking focal point to any space or room with a chic dining table and chairs — look no further than our selection of statement-making styles that will crown you the undisputed darling of dinner parties.
A Cult Classic Creativity meets comfort in the utterly unique Botolo Chair by Cini Boeri for Arflex from Studio Italia. Originally conceived by Boeri in 1973, this classic design has remained a favourite of industry insiders ever since — and for good reason. With the sumptuous, curved seat able to be finished in fabric, leather or faux fur and the distinct, cylindrical legs available in either metal or wood, this dining chair is for those seeking to break the mould.
Tama House by Nina Maya Interiors.
A Simple Chair The outward simplicity of the Doyl Chair by Gabriele and Oscar Buratti for B&B Italia from Matisse, belies its sophisticated design. In order to offer such a sleek, unfussy look, this chair has been meticulously created using thick leather upholstery that has been folded, curved and turned inside out, but never cut — a testament to the power of using just a single material.
Lilac Linen House by Sally Caroline.
A Sculptural Seat The cleverly-constructed Crown Chair by Chris Martin for Massproductions from Simon James features a concealed steel joint that makes its backrest appear as though perched effortlessly on top of the base. Available in a wide range of textiles and finished with foam padding, this piece is as elegant to look at as it is comfortable to sit in — the perfect combination.
A Piece with Poise Offering a modern take on a vintage-inspired design, the Soho Dining Chair by Kelly Hoppen from Frobisher promises to elevate any dining room. From its neutral, taupe oak frame and clean, white upholstery to its ergonomic, curved backrest and eye-catching stainless steel leg details, this chair is the refined but practical piece your space has been missing.
A Striking Centrepiece Anchor your dining space with the Plissé Dining Table by Paola Navone for MIDJ of Italy from Sarsfield Brooke. Boasting a uniquely-pleated, conical base and a customisable round top, able to be made in a variety of colours and finishes, this head-turning table is versatile, dynamic and the ideal piece to bring people together and invite conversation. And for inspiration on how to dress it, consult our guide to covetable tableware and accessories.
A Touch of Comfort Invite opulence and comfort into your dining room with the Linda Chair by Luca Erba for Marelli from Sarsfield Brooke. Compact and cosy, this versatile armchair is made from a curved, wooden backrest and frame with padded polyurethane foam upholstery. This one is sure to have you and your guests relaxing around the dinner table long after the meal is done.
A Modern Edge Danish and Japanese design elements collide in the Tokyo Chair by Niels Bendtsen for Bensen from Tim Webber Design. Featuring a solid wood frame and removable saddle leather seat, this pared back dining chair offers a distinctive, modern look and promises to bring depth and dimension to a well-appointed dining room.
A Conversation Starter An impressive structure of bleached oak with a wash so light it could be mistaken for travertine, and a strong brass frame seemingly holding it together, the Celena Dining Table is Soho Home’s (available from Design Central) ode to Roc House — the Mykonos destination that is the ultimate embodiment of summer hospitality.
Clear Oak Residence by Woods + Dangaran.
A Perfect Pairing Lend your dining room some dynamism by using two different styles of chair around the table. Here, Knoll’s iconic Platner Chair and Saarinen Conference Chair from Studio Italia sit perfectly side-by-side, the recognisable, attention-grabbing frame of the former offset beautifully by the simple, curvature of the latter. Equally eye-catching and elegant.
Mirror Image House by Smac Studio.
A Unique Shape Designed in such a way as to hug the body and allow for multiple seating positions, the Fat Dining Chair by Tom Dixon from ECC makes for an unmistakable design feature. Boasting a humorous, puffed-out silhouette made from moulded foam, glossy metal legs in black lacquer, and made-to-order upholstery, this dining chair is highly unique and undeniably luxurious.
A Tactile Table Make a strong statement in your dining space with the Holo Pillar Table by Kensaku Oshiro for Kristalia from Matisse. Carefully made with a round, tapered-edged top (available in a range of finishes, including speckled marble) that sits on a notable, oval base (completed in Kristalia’s new ‘Exclusive Colours’ powder-coating), this exceptional table has some serious presence.
We’ve all been there, packing for a trip, trying to fit all of our favourite toiletries into a small bag without sacrificing any step in our wellbeing routines. The traditional shampoo and conditioner duo can take up space and add unnecessary weight to our luggage, but they are an unwavering essential when days are spent in and out of salty water. So it begs the question: what’s one to do?
Enter Ecostore and its coveted line of solid shampoo and conditioner bars. Made from plant and mineral-based ingredients, the bars are vegan and 100% soap-free with a mild pH. They come in a compact and easy-to-pack form, making them perfect for out-of-town travel this long weekend.
Cleverly, Ecostore has crafted the shampoo bars in four innovative formulations, catering to different hair types. The Normal Shampoo uses argan and coconut oils to hydrate issue-free hair, while jojoba oil and shea butter found in the Dry & Damaged Shampoo Bar nourish and smooth distressed locks. In the Volumising Shampoo Bar, kale protein helps to volumize and strengthen fine hair, and flaxseed oil found in the Smoothing Shampoo Bar tames curly locks. Removing any potential confusion, the Nourishing Conditioner Bar locks in moisture for all hair types.
Not only are these bars convenient for travel, they also provide the same luxurious lather and scrub as their liquid counterparts. Each bar offers approximately 60 washes packed in recyclable cardboard packaging, allowing for clean, deliciously-scented and nourished hair without bulky and unnecessary plastic bottles.
Ultimately, Ecostore’s solid shampoo and conditioner bars are not only a more convenient and eco-friendly option for travel, but they also provide quality hair care. It’s a small change that can make a significant impact, both for our hair and for the environment — an essential to help us travel lightly through the new year.
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.
