Parade is taking up permanent residency on Ponsonby Road, here’s how you can be the first to try it

It doesn’t take much for a place to make a name for itself in Auckland, just good food and a cult following. It’s how Ponsonby’s Parade has amassed such notoriety in the short 12 months it has been open, and what began as a simple pop up has now taken up permanent residency in the space next door.

Even if you haven’t tried Parade (and trust us, you’re missing out), you’ll likely have seen the burgers. Truth be told, they’re unlike anything else. The epitome of indulgent eating, each burger is served in a house-made pretzel bun, with decadent fillings that have been known to include fried chicken with macaroni and cheese or a smashed beef patties with nacho chips, cheese sauce and salsa. As far as flavours go, the Parade team are never afraid to try something new or push the boundaries of what’s expected from a burger. And now, this approach is paying off.

Parade began as a vision from the trio behind Newmarket cafe, Mutual Friends. And now, after starting Parade as a pop-up amid Auckland’s longest year of lockdowns, Bryan Anderson, Nick Fury and Sean Bone are proudly opening an official outpost at 252 Ponsonby Road. Where Parade is unique, is in the way that it offers Instagram-worthy burgers that not only reimagine what the classic burger is (flavour- and composition-wise), but that also taste as delicious as they look. And it’s this potent mix that has seen Parade’s popularity skyrocket.

With the arrival of a more permanent space, the “grown-up version of Parade” begins, according to Anderson. While much of the menu everyone knows and loves will remain the same, the team have taken this opportunity to expand their selection of sides alongside finally being able to offer (thanks to a new liquor license) cold Asahi, natural wines and tasty cocktails.

“What we’re most stoked for is making it more of a three-dimensional space,” Anderson reflects. “It’s a bigger space than where we were previously, we were missing the whole dine-in experience. Here we can collaborate and host more activations — we’re levelling up what’s on offer.”

Although Parade is swiftly growing (thanks, in large part, to the magic of social media) it is still a grassroots venue of sorts. When I go and visit the space before opening, all three of the owners are moving a fridge and unloading new stock ahead of a pre-opening night for the friends and family who have supported them since the beginning. In fact, much of the new fit-out was handled personally by the trio.

Now officially open to the public, Parade’s sleek new spot is sure to draw the crowds. And while we’re anticipating lines around the block this weekend, in our opinion, any wait for this menu is worth it.

Opening hours:
Wednesday – Thursday, 5pm-9pm

Friday – Saturday, 12pm-3pm, 5pm-9pm
Closed Sunday Tuesday

Parade

252 Ponsonby Road,
Ponsonby

www.paradeponsonby.com

Gastronomy

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Left: Sebastian Hunt. Right: Dylan Richards Diaz.

How Entire Studios founders Sebastian Hunt and Dylan Richards Diaz are taking over the world

When it comes to creating, launching and sustaining a successful fashion brand, these days it’s not enough to merely focus on a finished garment. It requires the vision to create an immersive world, an identity that consumers feel they can slip into as easily as putting a hand through a well-fitted sleeve. With their label Entire Studios, Sebastian Hunt and Dylan Richards Diaz understand this intrinsically.

Having both worked as stylists and creative directors for several years in New Zealand, then Los Angeles, Hunt and Richards Diaz launched Entire Studios in October 2020. In under six months, they received seals of approval from celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner who were photographed wearing Entire’s signature brightly-hued puffer jackets. Since then, the label’s trajectory has only accelerated.

Early famous fans were not entirely out of the sartorial blue; before they created their own label, Hunt and Richards Diaz were gaining widespread clout in the industry through consulting as “ghost” creatives for Kanye West and his label Yeezy (operating behind the scenes to help shape the brand and holistic vision); plus working with Kardashian, Justin Bieber and internationally acclaimed New Zealand choreographer Parris Goebel.

Uzziah and Hugo wear Entire Studios Drop 2

“Years of styling and creative consulting set us up with the skills and industry knowledge to start our own brand,” says the duo. Seeking clothing that simultaneously embraced not only functionality but also quality, impeccable design and accessibility, was a key impetus to take matters into their own hands. “Many brands will meet one of those criteria, but then the others are sacrificed, which we believe is a missed opportunity for a brand to elevate at the intersection of luxury and accessible streetwear.”

With each new collection, they explore the impact of colour and push the boundaries of silhouette; through their lens, shapes are exaggerated to transform or highlight the body, whether that be the sell-out, oversized puffer jackets, the slick catsuits, ultra-mini micro skirts or the perfectly relaxed hoodie and tracksuit sets. 

Josephine and Calvin wear Entire Studios Drop 2.5

Since launching, the duo’s approach to design has evolved and improved constantly, as has their awareness of what their customers gravitate towards. While initially, they released just one item in three colourways (the emblematic puffer jackets), now that they create wider collections, they say it’s resulting in a more well-rounded understanding of who the Entire Studios customer is, and what pieces work in their wardrobes.

Currently, Richards Diaz is based in L.A. and handles much of the design, creative direction and shoots, while Hunt focuses on art direction and manages the team and operations from Auckland. The distance can be a challenge, but they’re constantly connected through technology — and, if anything, covering more ground between them has been an advantage. 

Entire Studios pop-up at HBX Hong Kong

Debuting a new label during the pandemic has also not been without its fair share of hurdles. Like many other designers, they haven’t been able to work as closely with their manufacturers as they would like to, due to travel restrictions. Fabric and reference-sourcing have also been limited, they say, but the most noticeable challenges have been around not being able to attend their own pop-up stores in person. “Because Entire Studios is driven by social media, we’ve had fewer opportunities to see people out and about in ES looks.” Luckily for them, there is no shortage of people offering free marketing by flexing their Entire ensembles for the ‘gram.

Speaking of social media, much is being said about how its domination creates an endless feedback loop of homogenous trends. How do these creatives avoid this? By being relentless in their vision, regardless of what’s trendy, they think.

“We are guided by what we like and steer clear of the echo chamber by having a wide reference base of fashion history. In order to create the new, you need to know what has gone before.”

Clockwise: Bad Bunny, Kendall Jenner, Dua Lipa, Stormi Webster, Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner wear the Entire Studios Puffer Jacket. 

Recently, the label has been seen on the likes of Dua Lipa and Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny (Spotify’s most-streamed music artist of 2021). Although one would imagine they’d be used to it by now, Entire Studios’ founders say it’s always incredibly exciting. “We don’t think it’ll ever get old seeing a public figure give our clothing the tick of approval.” 

When asked who are the ultimate people to see in their pieces, for Richards Diaz that would be Naomi Campbell, and for Hunt, Gwyneth Paltrow. 

In the last year, the launch of Entire Studios’ Drop 2 and Drop 2.5 collections have been met with frenzied enthusiasm; Hunt and Richards Diaz have collaborated with Hypebeast on a pop-up store in Hong Kong, and sold out a collection on luxury e-tailer Ssense before the marketing for it had even launched.

All shining moments from a duo who have an even brighter future ahead of them — but the proudest of all is closer to home. “Ultimately, hiring our team and watching the buzz with them every time a new delivery goes live is our proudest accomplishment.” 

Coveted

Van Cleef & Arpels’ joyful Perlée collection takes centre stage in our Winter Issue editorial
Van Cleef & Arpels adds to the Perlée collection with elegant three-row rings
Bvlgari revisits one of its boldest signatures with Gold & Steel

Here’s why a classic shearling jacket is the only outerwear you need this winter

There’s no denying that as days get colder, ‘rugging up’ will soon mean more than merely pulling on a long sleeve. And as we look to our wardrobes for cold-weather solutions that don’t compromise a well-considered outfit, there is one jacket that stands above the rest for its timeless style and textural quality — the shearling.

While the shearling jacket has had its moments in and out of fashion’s favour (and a number of iterations throughout the years) it really is a style that transcends trends. Our advice? Invest in a shearling jacket that will see you through more than one winter by sticking to classic styles and versatile tones. Think black leather or tan suede, with trim kept to a palette of neutrals.

Once you find that perfect shearling jacket, it will be more than just a look-enhancing layer. It will keep you warm through winter’s most inclement days — and piece to which you can always turn when in need a little something extra.

Coveted

Van Cleef & Arpels’ joyful Perlée collection takes centre stage in our Winter Issue editorial
Van Cleef & Arpels adds to the Perlée collection with elegant three-row rings
Bvlgari revisits one of its boldest signatures with Gold & Steel
Dadelszen Boston Overnight Bag.
Abel Odor Layering Set.
Butterworth Estate.
Ecostore Haircare Bars.

Heading out of town? Don’t forget to pack your long weekend essentials

With the long weekend just around the corner, beckoning us to hit the road, take off or simply escape the hustle and bustle, we’ve corralled a quartet of travel-friendly things we couldn’t possibly leave without.

Dadelszen Boston Overnight Bag
A good quality bag can only get better over time and Dadelszen’s Boston overnight bag is the kind of keep-all that you take on a weekend stay but won’t want to let go of. Complete with palladium hardware, an interior pocket and a removable shoulder strap, it’s a hardworking style that can take you anywhere. To buy, click here.

Abel Odor Layering Set
Anything but the duty-free miniature fragrances of the masses, these handy atomisers are filled with Cyan Nori, Pink Iris and Green Cedar olfactory experiences by none other than the nose that knows, Abel Odor. Whether your getaway calls for smelling like a convent in bloom or a citrus orchard at dawn, look no further. To buy, click here.

Butterworth Estate The Skippers 6 Pack
After a long and windy road trip sometimes a little holiday tipple is all you need. Our choice is the Butterworth Skippers pack. With 2 bottles of its divine Butterworth Pinot Noir, Butterworth Sauvignon Blanc and Regatta Rose, there is something to please each and every holiday maker. To buy, click here.

Ecostore’s Haircare Bars
A stand-alone saviour from dubious hotel toiletries, Ecostore’s haircare bars make it even easier to reach for the gentle, plant-based ingredients that won’t strip your hair’s natural protective oils regardless of where you roam. The range includes both shampoo and conditioner in various formulas to suit every hair type and the compact size makes it easy to stash away in your luggage. To buy, click here.

Coveted

Van Cleef & Arpels’ joyful Perlée collection takes centre stage in our Winter Issue editorial
Van Cleef & Arpels adds to the Perlée collection with elegant three-row rings
Bvlgari revisits one of its boldest signatures with Gold & Steel

3 key wellness trends to keep an eye on in 2022

Now, more than ever, we all want to feel our best — a fact reflected in verifiably booming beauty and wellbeing industries. While there’s no doubt research and development is taking longer to make its way around the globe, despite the pandemic there’s no stopping progress. Issues like climate change and societal shifts like increasingly blurred gender stereotypes are reflected in today’s beauty landscape, which, thankfully, is only becoming more inclusive. From the latest in cosmetic treatments to buzzy new product formulation techniques, expressing our individuality never looked so good.

Now grappling with the pandemic for a third year, the wellbeing sector has only ballooned as we seek mental and physical reprieve from the toll of life’s stresses. On a positive note, stigma around subjects like menstruation and menopause is also noticeably lifting, and the sexual wellness industry is well and truly booming.

Snack Session
You may have heard the term “exercise snack”, but we’re not talking about food here. It refers to short, sharp workouts, the rise of which is set to continue this year. Well-known American fitness entrepreneur Joe Holder is an enthusiastic proponent of short workouts, espousing the many benefits, including the fact that they’re easier to fit into your day, they build up and contribute to overall fitness, and they’re great for increasing mobility.

Pleasure Seekers
A marked trend in 2021, the global sexual wellness market has everyone hot under the collar, and it’s only projected to grow with Research And Markets estimating it will be worth USD$125 billion by 2026. Much of the expansion has been women-led, with female business owners redefining the space to celebrate pleasure as a form of self-care — New Zealander Ella McLean recently launched her stylish e-commerce platform Hello Lover as a conscious, inclusive antidote to the outdated “sex shop” concept.

That Time of the Month
Far from the embarrassment many of us would have experienced in our youth, today’s openness around menstruation and period care has resulted in not only a welcome reduction of shame in young people experiencing something perfectly normal for the first time, but also the development of increasingly innovative and eco-friendly sanitary products. On TikTok, the tag #periodtok has 183.7 million views, as Gen-Z users lead the charge and the conversation.

In a similar vein but at the other end of the journey, increasing dialogue around menopause is bringing much-needed attention and understanding to something that was previously suffered through in silence by many women. In New Zealand, recently-released books This Changes Everything and Don’t Sweat It by local authors Niki Bezzant and Nicky Pellegrino respectively, are shedding light on symptoms and arming women with the tools to handle this stage of life both at home and in the workplace. 

Wellbeing

The sleep reset: We consult a sleep expert on the 10 steps to follow to start having the best sleep of your life
Bouncing back: What jumping around for 10 minutes every morning has done for me
The next-generation toxin promising speed, subtlety and rare staying power

Learn something new with our pick of the best non-fiction book releases

From the stylish story of couture house Balenciaga to our dwindling attention spans and quest for love, these new non-fiction books set the record straight on several fascinating subjects.

The Little Book of Balenciaga by Emmanuelle Dirix
The godfather of conceptual design, Cristóbal Balenciaga was the most iconic and influential couturier of the twentieth century. “Haute couture is like an orchestra, whose conductor is Balenciaga,” quipped Christian Dior. Through a stunning compilation of images and captivating text, this very refined little story of Balenciaga depicts his work and life. By fashion historian Emmanuelle Dirix, it examines his legacy from his own designs and beyond.

Stolen Focus by Johann Hari
Focus is something that is hard to find in our day and age. By internationally bestselling author Johann Hari, Stolen Focus addresses our shortening attention spans and finds these have not been dwindled, but swindled. The result is an informative book you won’t be able to put down. 

Burning Questions by Margaret Atwood
From the remarkable mind of Margaret Atwood, Burning Questions asks the big questions, with the same uncanny curiosity that has led her to become a double Booker Prize-winning phenomenon. An exhilarating collection from a cultural icon, with an impish sense of humour, we may not get a better guide to the mysteries of our vast universe.

Let’s Get Physical: How Women Discovered Exercise and Reshaped the World by Danielle Friedman
From jogging to Jazzercise, the culture of women’s exercise is often dismissed as a craze or way to deal with cravings. Award-winning journalist Danielle Friedman limbers up her investigative skills to uncover the history of women’s exercise, and how physical strength can be converted into other forms of power.

The Lonely Hunter: How Our Search for Love Is Broken by Aimée Lutkin
After attending a fateful coupled-up dinner party, Aimée Lutkin embarked on hundreds of dates and hundreds of hours of research. Part memoir, part cultural criticism, The Lonely Hunter reveals society’s pathologising of love and loneliness for an insightful and full-of-heart read.

Culture

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New Zealander Zoë Robins on her acting career and the global phenomenon that is ‘The Wheel of Time’

Zoë Robins is in her apartment in Smíchov, looking across the river to the main centre of Prague. It’s dark over there — due to the opposite time zones. Far from the shores of the Coromandel she visited this summer, she got up to work in negative two degrees this morning. “It was quite a shock to the system,” she relays over Zoom.

Playing Nynaeve al’Meara in Amazon Prime’s ambitious adaptation of The Wheel of Time, sometimes she feels a world apart. With the show based on a series of 14 fantasy novels by Robert Jordan, the actor is aware of the perils of her own adventure. Many watchers have come of age with the lead characters like her — something she was acutely aware of when she first stepped on the enormous, sprawling sets built to transport even the most exacting fan of the fictional universe in 2019.

After six weeks of boot camp, including learning to horse-ride, Robins was ready to go head-to-head in an early scene with Rosamund Pike. She plays a magical noblewoman Moraine who is searching for ‘The Dragon Reborn’, who is believed to save the world, and who could be Nynaeve.

Zoë Robins as Nynaeve al’Meara in The Wheel of Time

Surviving for season two, Robins is settling into her role, and picking up archery with the stunt team in her downtime. The Wheel of Time is Amazon’s bid at Game of Thrones success (with each episode setting Jeff Bezos back around US$10 million). A discernible difference is it’s set in a realm where magic is mostly wielded by women and a diverse cast. It’s an important element to Robins, who finds success in meaningful work that holds its own quiet power. “We forget how much we rely on stories in society, and how they help reflect the world back onto us,” she says. “I’m part of something that has the possibility of changing people’s lives and making an impact in whatever way, be it big or small.”

Even before filming began, Robins and her crew were given the agency to help build their characters — including being part of dress, hair and makeup conversations. “It was a magical kind of escapism.”

Nynaeve is known to be self-assured, compassionate and selfless — all characteristics Robins is growing with. “In order to play someone of her energy, I’ve had to believe it too,” she says. “Stepping into this crazy world and recognising how significant my part was in it all, I had to lean into the fact that I’m worthy of being here.”

Both Robins and her character have also had to learn to let go of any semblance of control on their respective quests. With Covid delaying filming processes, and making it hard to get home, the crew have become their own kind of family.

Surrounding herself with like-minded and passionate people, as well as defining success on her own terms, has assuaged the uncertainty. Being a New Zealander has also helped the actor keep a level head. “My upbringing and who I surround myself with at home has meant that I can feel a little bit more relaxed and content with how my career has panned out,” she says.

Robins was brought up in a loving Lower Hutt home, by her mother Bridget. At the age of 10, she had what they call in showbiz a ‘lightbulb moment’ while watching TV, and she shortly landed her first professional job at 12. Once out of school, she moved to Auckland for The Actors’ Program in 2014. Like many plucky local actors, she took on roles in The Power Rangers and Shortland Street — before starring in Netflix’s Black Christmas and Regina King’s The Finest.

In her latest work, she strives to bring out the truth in her acting — something that can be especially challenging when on such an intense set as The Wheel of Time. “We’re not doing it on a green screen, we’re going through very similar emotional beats as our characters,” she says. “Things definitely take a toll on you, so looking after yourself is really important.”

If season three is given the go-ahead, Robins will be spending more time in the Czech Republic as her epic on-and-off screen adventure continues. She’s also looking forward to coming back home for a break, and getting involved in more film work. “I want to continue to do good work with good people,” she says of her overarching goals.

All in good time.

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Reach for bold new heights in the season’s must-have boot

This season ankle boots take centre stage, where they’ve otherwise been neglected for their thigh-high counterpart. Platform, stiletto or simply flat, the choice is yours, but the only non-negotiable is investing in a staple black pair; it’s like a little black dress for your feet. 

If you’re craving something bold, Saint Laurent’s Cherry Buckle Platform Booties lean into the platform trend we’re seeing all over fashion month. For a boot that can take you into the winter season in style, Moncler’s Caroline Leather Ankle Boots have après-ski written all over them. If sleek is more your style, then the stiletto on Balenciaga’s Leather Ankle Boot is enough to prove your point.

Clockwise from top left: Leather platform ankle boots from Giuseppe Zanotti, Arcade boots from Christian Dior, Brushed leather and nylon booties from Prada, ankle boots from Louis Vuitton, CHERRY BUCKLE PLATFORM BOOTIES from Saint Laurent, Caroline leather ankle boots from Moncler.
Clockwise from top left: leather ankle boots from Balenciaga, ankle boots from matchesfashion, Giuseppe zanotti ametista booties from faradays, RHODES HEELED ANKLE BOOTs from Christian Dior, Shark lock biker ankle boots from Givenchy, BOTTEGA VENETA Leather Chelsea boots from Net-a-porter.

Coveted

Van Cleef & Arpels’ joyful Perlée collection takes centre stage in our Winter Issue editorial
Van Cleef & Arpels adds to the Perlée collection with elegant three-row rings
Bvlgari revisits one of its boldest signatures with Gold & Steel

Double down on denim with the blue-jean looks our editors are loving

Never has there been a fabric that has managed to transcend seasons and styles as seamlessly as denim. And while cuts and colours may change more frequently than you wash your favourite pair of jeans, fashion’s hardest working fabric has been renewed once again via runways and street style icons, just in time for winter.

While skinny jeans remain on the out, high-rise straight-leg shapes are very much in, such as Re/Done’s iconic 90s High Rise Loose Fit and St. Agni’s Mid Rise Wide Leg (jeans that will take you from day to night with ease).

Y2K trends are at the forefront yet again, with denim becoming the handbag material of choice, adorning quintessential styles like Balenciaga’s Hourglass, Louis Vuitton’s Loop Bag and Saint Laurent’s Puffer Bag.

With the inclusion of classic jackets from Gucci, pinafore-style dresses from Prada and sneakers from Dior, there’s never been a better time to embrace your inner blue jean baby and add a little more denim to your closet.

Clockwise from top left: 90s High Rise Loose Jeans by Re/Done from Workshop, Hourglass Bag from Balenciaga, Denim Dress with Horsebit from Gucci, DENIM COCOON SLEEVE MINI DRESS from Scanlan Theodore, WALK’N’DIOR SNEAKER from Dior, Ecowashed Denim wide brim hat from Gucci, Oversized Vintage Denim jacket by Acne Studios from Workshop.
Clockwise from top left: Denim Mini Dress from Prada, Denim Bucket Hat from Prada, Denim Mini Skirt from Wardrobe NYC, Loop Bag from Louis Vuitton, Mid Rise Wide Leg Jean by St.Agni from Muse, VLogo denim slingback pumps by Valentino from Mytheresa, GG Denim Jacket from Gucci, Puffer Bag from Saint Laurent.

Coveted

Van Cleef & Arpels’ joyful Perlée collection takes centre stage in our Winter Issue editorial
Van Cleef & Arpels adds to the Perlée collection with elegant three-row rings
Bvlgari revisits one of its boldest signatures with Gold & Steel
Curvao Sofa by Jean de Merry.

Forget reserving art for the walls, Bonham’s foray into functional art will change how you look at homewares

Chairs are no longer solely for sitting in, and art isn’t exclusive to walls. Where modernity lies is in collaboration with both art form and functionality; a way to transform seemingly mundane essentials like lighting fixtures or dressers into pieces that tell the story of a room.

When it comes to functional art, there are few studios that curate it better than Bonham. Revered for their exquisite forms, sculptural furniture and fine & functional art, the focus of the brand looks to interior design and how to break away from the norm — a value that Bonham has long retained as an architecture and interiors studio.

Pearl Cabinet by Aguirre Design, Arp Lamp Mini by Roark Modern.

Earlier this year Bonham Group, one of the leading architecture and interiors teams across New Zealand and Australia, launched Bonham Art & Design. Through Bonham Group’s existing network, they have been able to build long-standing relationships with some of the most sought-after designers and artists in the world. And in this evolution of the brand, the curators are exclusively bringing the world’s best luxury furniture, fine and functional art to the Australasian market for the first time through their new online platform and nearly-ready gallery space, with a roster of 35 internationally recognised artists and designers.

As far as functional art is concerned, some of Bonham’s most captivating pieces on offer include Sylvan S.F’s Balloon Dog Dry Bar — a nod to artists past — and J McDonald’s Terrace Mirror — a piece we are currently coveting. Here, functional art refers to larger objects like sideboards and sofas, or smaller additions like lamps and mirrors. Just like more traditional artworks, these objects are an investment that inherently become family heirlooms — it’s not until the object arrives in your home that it’s story truly begins.

Radiant Sconce by By John Pomp Studios.

By definition, functional art refers to aesthetic objects that serve a utilitarian purpose. It’s a medium of art that doesn’t discriminate or exclude, which can inspire creative genius and embraces the fluidity of both art and industrial design.

While not always serving a clear-cut purpose, the adornment of art-like attributes to furnishings (and vice versa) adds personality and narrative to a space, alongside simply providing the owner with a point of difference — an element that makes their home truly unique. Bonham Art & Design was imagined with a singular purpose; offering clientele a unique take on furnishing the home — one that escapes trends and will remain sought after for decades to come.

Terrace Mirror by J McDonald, Habitat Seductive by Eelco Hilgersom.

Ultimately, this foray into functional art was a natural fit for The Bonham Group, which has always looked holistically at how architectural development, interior design, fine art and luxury furnishings all come together to create elevated environments.

Those seeking Bonham’s coveted offerings across the country will be pleased to discover that there will be a more permanent presence in Arrowtown, coming soon, and the online gallery is now open to shop at your pleasure.

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Enjoy the city’s best pizza fritta at the under-the-radar pop-up you need to know about

Try as we might, we can’t seem to escape the chokehold that divine Mediterranean food has on us all. Would it be a bad thing to admit that perhaps we don’t even want to? Seeking any excuse under the sun for a taste of carb-loaded, cheesy delights (paired with a good wine of course) has led us to the discovery of an under-the-radar food outfit that is serving some of the most delicious Italian-inspired food we have ever tried.

Passa Passa’s pizza fritta.

Passa Passa is an ode to Italian food done authentically, with a zest for marrying traditional flavours with modern fare. The trouble is, while regularly serving its handmade pasta and pizza fritta (which has quickly gained a cult following), you won’t ever find Passa Passa in the same place. It operates as a pop-up restaurant, taking over the kitchens of cafes across Auckland and this Saturday it is popping up once again, offering a chance to sample its tasty menu from the comfort of Kingsland local, Garage Project (from 12pm).

The menu changes weekly, and this week Passa Passa is dishing up crispy cacio e pepe arancini alongside its famed pizza fritta, served with either fior de latte, mortadella and caramelised onions, or hot honey, confit garlic mushrooms and gremolata. The team behind Passa Passa are no strangers to inspired Italian street food, having run pop-ups as far afield as Waiheke, and thanks to their skills in the kitchen they’re quickly becoming a weekend go-to for gourmands across the city.

But with growing popularity comes burgeoning crowds, and while Passa Passa is still a relative newcomer, dishes have been known to run out the door in weeks past. Our advice? Get in there quick before the menu sells out.

Gastronomy

The Hotel Britomart and kingi celebrates sustainable luxury by launching Zero-Waste Dish of the Week
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Bravo Go is redefining takeaway dining

Make the most of oyster season with this unmissable deal at a Princes Wharf stalwart

One of our favourite Princes Wharf eateries is ensuring that no one need miss out on their share of tasty seasonal oysters. Having recently added $3 oysters to its seafood-centric menu, The Crab Shack is the place you’ll find us for after-work drinks.

With Bluffie season in full swing, and juicy morsels from other parts of New Zealand taking over as our go-to dish alongside a crisp glass of wine, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of The Crab Shack’s exceptional offer. And while the ‘best oyster in the world’ has become even more rare and rarified due to difficult conditions recently — including a New Moon and high tides — even when the coveted Bluffies aren’t available, we still think this is one of the best oyster deals in town.

There is a catch, of course. The $3 oysters are only available between 4pm and 7pm each day, but we think that makes them the perfect appetiser for a sunset overlooking the water, and the ideal precursor to dinner and drinks in town.

Other happy hour offerings from The Crab Shack include $5 wines, half-price tap beers and $10 cocktails. That’s not to look past the daily $15 lunch specials and the family favourite, kids eat for free on Sundays. If you haven’t pulled up a seat at The Crab Shack recently, consider this a timely reminder to do so, STAT.

The Crab Shack

Shed 22 Princes Wharf,
Auckland CBD

www.crabshack.co.nz

Gastronomy

The Hotel Britomart and kingi celebrates sustainable luxury by launching Zero-Waste Dish of the Week
PonsonBurger is back for its third year, and these are the burgers worth trying
Bravo Go is redefining takeaway dining

Considering an anti-wrinkle injectable? Did you know there is more than one option available? Here are some that should be on your list

For many of us, a well-rounded skincare routine can be one that includes cosmetic procedures like injectables. Often utilised to give the impression of a more youthful appearance, what previously may have been an area of beauty that was kept under wraps has never been more open — and accepted. 

Globally, the demand for fillers and injectables is on the rise, with the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reporting an 8.6 percent increase in non-surgical injectables in 2019. The most commonly used of these is, unsurprisingly, botulinum toxin, with the society reporting 6,271,488 procedures carried out across over 15 countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Russia and Japan (this includes both women and men). 

While these statistics for the last couple of years will undoubtedly have been disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic, anecdotally the demand for non-surgical treatments like anti-wrinkle injectables is widely reported to be thriving. Some interesting and previously unexpected factors have influenced the conversation. 

Many of us are spending more time on Zoom and FaceTime than ever before and as a possible result, we may have grown more accustomed than we’d probably like to all the nuances of our faces, including those we’re not too fond of. 

When it comes to the formulation of botulinum toxin products, all of these are effective, but there are differences on how they are made and their protein content. What many people might not know, is that resistance can form against these products, through the development of antibodies against the toxin proteins. Increasing therapeutic evidence and published clinical research show that some of the risk factors which influence the build up of resistance to botulinum toxins are high doses, frequency of treatment and level of protein injected.

This resistance may result in clients requiring larger doses to keep wrinkles at bay and having to get injections more regularly. Quite apart from aesthetic concerns, botulinum toxin resistance can impact potential therapeutic treatment for conditions including musculoskeletal disorders, blepharospasm or spasticity after a stroke, as resistance can last for a significant period of time. 

Aside from taking a lengthy break from injections, there is no immediate cure for resistance. Using the minimum effective dose, maximising the time between treatments and minimising the level of protein injected can all help minimise the risk of resistance. 

In New Zealand, a product from leading global company Merz Aesthetics has proven effective in numerous clinical studies. Named XEOMIN®, this purified* botulinum toxin product goes through additional purification steps in the manufacturing process to remove the complexing proteins, meaning the end product contains only the active part of the botulinum toxin. 

In treatment for severe glabellar frown lines, over 95 percent of patients responded by day 30, with the majority of patients maintaining a desirable effect up to four months on. Another study has also shown that XEOMIN® can help patients appear to others as looking younger and healthier.

Most of us are now, more than ever, aware of every little thing we put into (and on) our bodies — from food and drink to cosmetics, skincare and more. If this is something you put particular emphasis on, and are considering an anti-wrinkle injectable, ask your healthcare professional to see if XEOMIN® is right for you.

* XEOMIN® contains zero complexing proteins.

Xeomin® (Incobotulinumtoxin A) 50, 100 Units is a Prescription Medicine. Indications: In adults, for the treatment of cervical dystonia; blepharospasm; spasticity of the upper limb; upper facial lines: glabellar frown lines, lateral periorbital lines (crow’s feet), horizontal forehead lines. Xeomin® has both risks and benefits, consult your doctor if Xeomin® is right for you. Further information on the risks and benefits of Xeomin® can be found in the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) available from www.medsafe.govt.nz or by calling 0800 822 310. Use strictly as directed. If symptoms continue or you have side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist or health care professional. Common side effects include: Headaches; nausea; tenderness, swelling, redness, numbness or bruising of the skin; dry eye; heavy feeling of eyelid/eyebrow/forehead; face/brow not symmetrical, drooping eyelids/eyebrows. Serious side effects are rare and include allergic reactions. Xeomin® is an unfunded medicine, prescription charge will apply. Normal doctor charges will still apply. Copyright ©2022. Pharmacy Retailing NZ Limited t/a Health Care Logistics (HCL) 58 Richard Pearse Drive, Mangere, Auckland 2022. All rights reserved. Xeomin® and Merz Aesthetics are registered trademarks of Merz Pharma GMbH & Co. KGaA. NZ_XEO_ADV_DEN_V1:MAR22 Date of preparation: March 2022. TAPS MR7602. For information about how Merz handles personal data, please see Merz General Data Protection Information Notice at www.merz.com/fin. Guideline for DTCA. Prescription medicines.

For more information on XEOMIN® and how to find your local clinic, visit –

Wellbeing

The sleep reset: We consult a sleep expert on the 10 steps to follow to start having the best sleep of your life
Bouncing back: What jumping around for 10 minutes every morning has done for me
The next-generation toxin promising speed, subtlety and rare staying power

Designer Oli Booth on the importance of collaboration and the impression of New Zealand architecture

Great architecture shapes the way we live. Not only does it orderly arrange our own reality, but with thoughtful consideration it can enhance our awareness of what else surrounds it.

This agility and sense of place is something Oli Booth learnt to appreciate ever since spending holidays around New Zealand, staying in tramping huts or family baches. “Perhaps being a younger country, we seem to be quite fluid in how we approach design,” he muses. “Less driven by style and more a responsiveness to our own culture and landscapes. It seems to be creating some special results.”

Having appreciated the arts and architecture while at high school in Waikato, the designer went on to study at the Victoria University of Wellington and worked for architecture firms in Auckland, before going out on his own in 2016.

“Starting a business on your own at 26 is always a challenge,” he reflects. “But it seems to be a lot more common these days, so it’s great to be able to share those experiences with people in similar positions.”

Ōmiha, Waiheke Island by Oli Booth

As with his approach to life, Booth’s designs are contextual. In responding to the environment, and the routines of its inhabitants, he can draw out the special moments and relationships that make a house a home.

In particular, Booth is drawn to projects that are collaborative and in their own conversation with the landscape. “I love designing with clients across different contexts,” he says. “Letting these elements shape your design is always a real pleasure.”

Lake Rotoroa, Hamilton by Oli Booth

And it seems homeowners are responding — his practice has a range of residential projects across breathtaking New Zealand locations lined up for this year, including from repeat clients.

As New Zealand housing inevitably becomes more populated, Booth hopes to alleviate our collective anxieties around crowding, quality and liveability. “We seem to be at a crossroads of trying to use existing models of density and affordability (which is pretty grim at times) and we are now trying to show how these spaces can in fact be beautiful and smart.”

A prime example of this is Booth’s recently completed home, which he worked on with his partner, and fellow designer, Libby Elmore. Putting his philosophy into personal practice, the Grey Lynn house has been an exercise in designing efficient, considered spaces that still feel generous. What could be more welcoming than that?

Image credit: David Straight

Design

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D.C. Row House by Jeremiah Brent
Amsterdam Residence by Framework Studio
West London Townhouse by Banda

The latest interior trend to try is a dining bench sofa

Rewrite the rule book when it comes to dinner table etiquette and sidle up to your next meal on a soft sofa or booth seat. Sure to deliver a more convivial atmosphere, it is both casual and chic.

Left: New York Townhouse by Gachot Studios. Right: Middle Park by Flack Studio.
California Estate by Axel Vervoordt

Get the Look
For the ultimate social dinner setting at your place, we recommend an elongated table with welcoming curved arms in smooth marble. As well as a beautiful custom bench sofa, reach for statement armchairs that will hold their own.

Left to right: Chelsea dining chair by Rodolfo Dordoni for Molteni&C from Dawson & Co., Manta dining chair by Rodrigo Torres for Poliform from Studio Italia, Capitol Complex chair by Hommage à Pierre Jeanneret for Cassina from Matisse.
Top to bottom: Ufo with Lazy Susan dining table by Ferruccio Laviani for Emmemobili from ECC, Jane dining table by Jean-Marie Massaud for Poltrona Frau from Studio Italia, Esse dining table by Reflex of Italy from Sarsfield Brooke.

Design

The Milan edit: Soft geometry takes centre stage in the living room
Contemporary design and considered functionality collide in this kitchen
Salone del Mobile 2026: The design brands & ideas defining Milan

This tiramisu Easter egg recipe creates the decadent treat your long weekend needs

With this recipe and a dash of alcohol, Easter eggs are put to good use as an adult indulgence. Liv Glazebrook from @kitchenoftreats has delivered a comforting recipe using any chocolate eggs that haven’t been devoured and simple tiramisu.

Tiramisu Easter eggs recipe
Serves 8

Ingredients
8 medium-sized hollow chocolate Easter eggs (or how many you wish to make)
6 large egg yolks, room temperature 
1 cup castor sugar
1¼ cup mascarpone, room temperature 
1¾ cup Lewis Road Creamery double cream
2 packets of Italian sponge fingers (each finger carefully chopped in half) 
1 cup strong coffee, cooled
½ cup Kahlúa coffee liqueur

Garnish
Grated chocolate 
Coffee Beans 

Method
1. To prepare the eggs, take each chocolate egg and break the top half of the egg open. Make sure that the opening is large enough so that you will be able to layer the tiramisu inside (refer to the recipe image for guidance). Set this broken chocolate aside, it will be grated and used as garnish later in the recipe. 
2. Combine egg yolks and sugar in the top of a double boiler, over boiling water using a whisk to mix. Reduce heat to low, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring constantly with a whisk. Remove from the heat and continue to whip yolks until thick. Allow to cool briefly before mixing in mascarpone.
3. Add mascarpone to whipped yolks, mix through until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, using a hand mixer whip cream to stiff peaks. Ensure you whip your cream slowly, this will allow it to hold its structure.   
5. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture and set aside. 
6. Mix the cold coffee with the coffee liqueur.
7. Take a halved sponge finger, dip in the coffee liqueur (just long enough to get them wet, do not soak them!) 
8. Place in the base of each chocolate egg to create a layer, top the ‘base’ sponge fingers with 1-2 tablespoons of the mascarpone mix, then repeat with the remaining sponge fingers and mascarpone mix until you reach the top of the egg. The final layer should be the mascarpone mix.
9. Repeat with the remaining eggs (once you have filled your eggs, any remaining mixture can be assembled into small ramekins).
10. Garnish with grated chocolate and coffee beans on top of each Easter egg. 
11. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours before serving (I like to make them the night before to allow the flavours to infuse.)


Image credit: Liv Glazebrook

Gastronomy

The Hotel Britomart and kingi celebrates sustainable luxury by launching Zero-Waste Dish of the Week
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Press play on these excellent albums and lose yourself in the music

Whether you’re after vibey dream pop or 80s-tinged bangers, these new album releases will provide a musical mood for every occasion.

Dawn FM by The Weeknd
On his fifth studio album Abel Tesfaye, a.k.a The Weeknd serves 80s-tinged pop with a hefty smack of something far more fierce than pathos. Compulsive, multi-layered, clever and ultimately his most cohesive release yet, The Weeknd shows he’s far from done exploring the expansive range of his talent.

Run, Rose, Run by Dolly Parton
A companion to her upcoming novel of the same name, Dolly Parton’s toe-tapping new album is a celebration of both Parton’s iconic country sound and her prowess as a songwriter who has told hundreds of stories with her music over her multi-decades-long career.

Laurel Hell by Mitski
Dubbed “the most alluring and enigmatic musician in indie rock”, Mitski wields her quintessentially razor-sharp writing and melodic prowess within an album that has both fans and critics enchanted. From emotive ballads to deceptively peppy pop tracks, there’s far more to Laurel Hell than meets the eye.

Once Twice Melody by Beach House
With this new release, dream-pop duo Victoria LeGrand and Alex Scally lean into the lush, hazy arrangements that made them famous, while embracing an even more expansive sound thanks to a live string section. The resulting album is cinematic and immersive, becoming increasingly addictive with every play.


Motomami by Rosalia
With her acclaimed 2018 album El Mal Querer, Spanish musician Rosalía Vila Tobella was credited as bringing the flamenco sound to a new generation. Now a global star, her highly-anticipated third album introduces an even more innovative sound, avant-garde and unconventional. With it, Rosalía solidifies herself as a visionary artist with remarkable musical range.

Culture

Wondering what to watch? These new shows should be on your radar
We talk to author Trent Dalton on his dark childhood, finding light between the cracks, and the girl who saved him
The Stars Have Aligned, Babe!
Left: London home by Olga Ashby. Right: The Art House by Nina Maya Interiors.

Need something more? These consoles and sideboards enhance empty interior spaces

Gone are the days when furniture had to choose between being practical or attractive. Case in point is the contemporary console or sideboard, rendered in varying design styles that are poised to enhance in-between spaces. Entryways, hallways and unfilled walls become areas for both clever storage and eye-catching décor. 

Left: TCL Residence by Mim Design. Right: Toronto Home by Anne Hepfer.
Top to bottom: 505 UP sideboard by Nicola Gallizia for Molteni&C from Dawson & Co., Palmanova sideboard by Giovanni Luca Ferreri for Arte Veneziana from Sarsfield Brooke.
Top to bottom: Selvans sideboard by Christian Werner from Ligne Roset, Dia cabinet by Chi Wing Lo for Giorgetti from ECC, Index Sideboard from Tim Webber.
Top to bottom: Match console by Paola Vella for Arflex from Studio Italia, Holo Console by Kensaku Oshiro for Kristalia from Matisse.

Design

The Milan edit: Soft geometry takes centre stage in the living room
Contemporary design and considered functionality collide in this kitchen
Salone del Mobile 2026: The design brands & ideas defining Milan
The Batman.

Get ready for action with these masterful new movies

After the events of late, we all have some escapism to catch up on. From the latest Guy Ritchie film Operation Fortune to Sandra Bullock’s rollicking The Lost City, these action-packed movies are here to whisk us away, at least momentarily.

Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre
For his next comedy-action film, Guy Ritchie is bringing out the big guns — namely Jason Statham as super-spy Orson Fortune. He must stop the sale of deadly weapons from another Ritchie regular, Hugh Grant, with the welcome yet wild-card addition of agent Aubrey Plaza and movie star Josh Hartnett. With elegance and an edge, this globe-trotting mission might just save the world — and the film genre. In cinemas now

The Batman
Robert Pattinson dons the cape in this new spin on Batman, where a young Bruce Wayne is taunted by a serial killer targeting Gotham’s corrupt wealthy citizens. Teaming up with the ever-coy Catwoman (Zoë Kravitz), to follow cryptic clues along with a trail of destruction, it’s an enticing new entry into the canon. In cinemas now

The Northman
Your hair will stand on end watching The Northman, and not just because it’s set in the freezing scenes of 10th Century Iceland. From director Robert Eggers, the vengeance film sees a Viking prince (Alexander Skarsgård) try to save his Queen mother (Nicole Kidman), while being distracted by a woman who can bend minds (Anya Taylor-Joy). In cinemas 21st April

The Lost City
Reality catches up with a reclusive romance-adventure novelist (Sandra Bullock) when she is kidnapped by an eccentric billionaire (Daniel Radcliffe) seeking an ancient lost city, and her handsome cover model (Channing Tatum) sets out to save her. Along with an appearance by Brad Pitt, The Lost City is a rollicking romp. In cinemas now

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Nicolas Cage takes on the role of a lifetime: Nick Cage. Facing financial ruin, the fictionalised version of himself accepts a million-dollar deal to visit a superfan. Things take an unexpected turn, and Cage is forced to live up to his own legend, channelling his most iconic characters in an action-comedy for the ages. In cinemas 21st April

The Adam Project
Feel the joy of science-fiction again, and travel back in time with the irreverent Ryan Reynolds — as a time-travelling pilot who teams up with his doe-eyed younger self in order to save the future, while coming to terms with his past. Watch on Netflix

Whina
Te Whaea o te Motu Dame Whina Cooper was an inspiration. The story of Whina (played over time by both Miriama McDowell and Rena Owen) is told with the respect it deserves — a film about a woman who worked tirelessly to improve the rights of her people, and sought equality for all. In cinemas 23rd June

Culture

Wondering what to watch? These new shows should be on your radar
We talk to author Trent Dalton on his dark childhood, finding light between the cracks, and the girl who saved him
The Stars Have Aligned, Babe!

4 promising beauty trends to keep an eye out for in 2022

Tackle 2022 with your best foot (and face… and body) forward. Now, more than ever, we all want to feel our best — a fact reflected in the verifiably booming beauty and wellbeing industries. Increasingly, the cosmetics realm embraces an “anything goes” approach to reflect our individuality, but there are some noticeable skincare trends that are being placed at the top of the shelf.

Fermentation Station
Many of us drink kombucha or eat sauerkraut for inside-out health benefits, but now skincare that harnesses the power of fermented ingredients is set to be the year’s biggest trend. In 2021, the lean towards “microbiome skincare” grew by a huge margin, and fermented skincare plays into this with its barrier-strengthening properties. As with many of today’s beauty trends, this one originated in South Korea, and has been enthusiastically adopted by the West as fermented products not only protect the skin’s biome, but also have increased potency, and contain natural bacteria that prolong shelf life. Look to brands like Sunday Riley, Drunk Elephant, Fresh and Sothys, which all employ fermented techniques in their products.

Left: Dr. Barbara Sturm Haircare. Right: Augustinus Bader Haircare

Hair Today
In a well overdue move, haircare is now being treated with the same pure and potent ingredients as skincare on the rest of the body. Luxury skincare brands like Dr. Barbara Sturm and Augustinus Bader now offer shampoo, conditioner and treatments as part of their lines, with Sturm using ingredients like hyaluronic acid and Bader wielding its Trigger Factor Complex for glossy, strong locks and a healthy scalp.

Dry Run
The rise of products formulated without water has industry forecasters like WGSN questioning whether the future of beauty is sans aqua. Waterless products were initially introduced as super-concentrated formulas without filler (water is often number one on ingredients lists) but now it’s being looked at as a more earth-friendly approach. According to the WHO, a staggering one in three people globally are unable to access clean water. Taking the form of powders, concentrates, balms, bars and oils, many mainstream waterless products are activated in the shower or sink, but the thinking is that there’s already been a large reduction in the amount of water used through leaving it out of the production chain itself. Certainly a category to watch as it expands. 

Harry Styles’s Beauty Brand, Pleasing

Well Groomed
The men’s beauty and grooming sector is expected to generate global sales of USD$81.2 billion by 2024, a category on the rise as many male-marketed brands also set out to redefine masculinity in their branding and marketing direction. Men are more encouraged than ever to care for their appearance, and this goes beyond the traditional shaving and basic skincare regimes. Celebrities including Harry Styles, Machine Gun Kelly, and Tyler, The Creator have launched nail polish brands, while makeup brands include men wearing makeup in their advertising. The prevalence of e-commerce and an increase in men spending more time at home has also allowed the space for private experimentation, and social media provides a platform for community and inspiration.

Wellbeing

The sleep reset: We consult a sleep expert on the 10 steps to follow to start having the best sleep of your life
Bouncing back: What jumping around for 10 minutes every morning has done for me
The next-generation toxin promising speed, subtlety and rare staying power