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.
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.
Those with a penchant for something sweet may have heard rumours of Ponsonby’s Manis, the unique new bakery where Paris and Bali collide. Denizen was recently among some of the first to try this new Ponsonby Road patisserie, and we can attest that the offering tastes as delicious as it looks.
Manis, translating to ‘sweet’ in the owners’ native Indonesian tongue, is a tasty collision of cultures, offering traditional Balinese pastries like martabak (a sweet pancake) and pie susu (a sweet milk tart) alongside French viennoiserie — including a number of variations on the classic croissant. There are also plenty more savoury pastry options (from pain au pesto and salami croissants to mouthwatering, filled house made rolls — perfect for anyone seeking a wholesome workday lunch).
Pistachio Croissant.
Considering that Auckland bakeries seem to be a dime a dozen, where Ponsonby’s Manis makes its mark is via the marriage of fresh, innovative flavours and proven culinary expertise. Co-Owner and Head Baker Angga Saputra spent eight years in the perennially-delicious Amano Bakery, and this recent opening is the culmination of his vision to bring sweet Indonesian cuisine to Auckland. To achieve this, he teamed up with Co-Owners Thaufik Probowasito, Rizky Venni and Nurhayati A Roi to open a bakery with a difference, and so far, the offering is already proving popular across the City. It is worth noting too, that as Indonesia is a largely Muslim nation, all the meats used in Manis’ sandwiches and baked goods are sourced from a local halal supplier.
Left: Macadamia Caramel Danish.
The tasty food is coupled (of course) with perfectly-brewed coffee (there’s even a celebratory two-for-one offering running this month), and given Manis’ convenient location on the southern end of Ponsonby Road, it is a place that we’d recommend visiting early in the day before the crowd-favourites sell out (which we’ve been told happens often). We’d also suggest ordering a few to take home, or back to the office like we did, as the perfect summer afternoon treat.
If you’ve found yourself in Helensville of late, you might have stumbled upon The Butcher Baker. A true farm-to-table style restaurant, harnessing the best of locally-grown and foraged produce, Owner Reginaldo Richard always intended the space to become a destination eatery for those across Auckland — as much as a foodie haven for locals to enjoy. Drawing on his tenure at local institutions like Honey Bones and Odettes, as well as his experience in some of the world’s biggest culinary hubs, The Butcher Baker is an ode to dining done well. And so, with a long weekend ahead, we thought there was no better time to discover the magnificence of this recent opening for yourself.
Paying homage to the rich history of its building (formerly both a baker and a butcher — hence the name), The Butcher Baker juxtaposes new and old. Fronted by an expansive courtyard, a delightful spot to sit and soak in the sun, the brick building has had a fresh and modern refit with pitched ceilings (that reminded me somewhat of London institution Rochelle Canteen) and a pared-back fit-out that feels effortlessly cool.
Aesthetics aside, Richard’s delicious dishes is the real drawcard here. The Butcher Baker’s menu changes often (weekly, we’re told) in order to capitalise on the best seasonal produce, sourced from local suppliers and foraged by Richard himself. Much of it is cooked in the eatery’s vast woodfire oven which sits pride of place in the open kitchen, offering new and innovative ways to cook and resulting in some seriously spectacular flavours.
“We use lots of fire to cook,” Richard tells me. “Not just meat, but vegetables and fruits as well. We even charr the meringue using one of the old-style irons. There are so many different ways to use the fire.” He explains that working with fire takes rapid-pace dining back a notch, which encourages those dining at The Butcher Baker to sit back, enjoy one another’s company and discover a renewed appreciation for the process and art of cooking. A welcome respite from the busyness and bustle of daily life, we think. “I see the fire as a key way to influence our menu,” Richard shares.
Those seeking something to satiate them in the middle of the day can expect to find fresh takes on brunch classics, like the English muffin adorned with whipped brie, anchovies, fig leaf oil and a soft-boiled egg, or dishes that pay homage to Richard’s Brazilian roots like the chickpea socca, topped with purple sprouting broccoli, almond and salsa verde. These pair perfectly with locally-roasted High Noon coffee or fresh Almighty juice.
Should you visit in the evening, some staples remain but there is a pivot to woodfired dishes and a sharing-style menu. Think of an interesting, more flavourful take on comfort food, and an approach to meat and fish that is innovative and aims to use as much of the animal as possible. (Richard often uses half and whole woodfired chickens, whole fish and dry-aged beef in his ever-changing dishes.) And the exceptional food is only complemented by a comprehensive list of delicate aperitivo, beloved natural wines and a range of craft beers. For dessert? The house sorbet is essential.
Growing up on a 500-acre farm in Brazil, a love for fresh produce and simple woodfire cooking was instilled in Richard from an early age. It’s a memory he recalls fondly of his mother, who would spend hours in front of the fire cooking traditional meals — the essence of which he hopes to bring to his new Helensville locale. Although The Butcher Baker is entirely its own, unique entity, we’d almost say this is where the innovation of something like Honey Bones meets the rich, smoky flavours of something like Milenta. High praise, we know, but once you visit (as you should this weekend), we are confident that you’ll agree.
Opening hours: Tuesday — Friday, 7am until 2.30pm Saturday — Sunday, 8am until 2.30pm Thursday — Saturday (evening service), 4pm until 10pm
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.
