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.
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.
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.
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.
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