As summer stretches on and the balmier days and longer nights continue, it’s prime time to update your outdoor set-up. From meals prepared al fresco to settling in solo with a good book, to lazy poolside lounging or a soak in an open-air tub, no matter your intended outdoor pursuits, our essential furniture and homewares edit has you covered.
Al Fresco Dining
The cornerstone of summer dining is a meal enjoyed outdoors. Beyond the traditional table and chairs, modern outdoor dining embraces the formality and comfort of indoor dining rooms, complete with plush furnishings, grand tables, and chic decor that encourages guests to linger for longer.
Much like outdoor dining spaces, open-air lounge areas are taking cues from inside the home — with a strong emphasis on both comfort and style. While a cosy sofa is an obvious essential, plush rugs, chic tables, designer lamps and soft furnishings are finding a place in outdoor settings.
From Poliform’s Le Club armchair, to the Elianto sofa by Paola Lenti, these chic seats, rendered in weather-proof fabrics, sit pretty in any setting — and are perfect accessories with which to create a cosy nook.
Achieve poolside perfection with a line-up of loungers that enhance your outdoor experience. Laid-back luxury is the aim of the game, so opt for clean lines and refined forms, looking to materials that stand the test of time.
While lounging in the sun is dreamy, sunburn is certainly not. Ensure you have an easy-to-erect umbrella at the ready to provide shade from the sun’s harmful rays.
A soak in the tub conjures a specific kind of relaxation that’s hard to emulate, and taking your bathing outdoors elevates this ritual to new heights. If your space allows, add another layer to your al fresco area with the inclusion of a luxe outdoor bath for the perfect place to find repose.
From classic to contemporary, stand-out to subtle, these illuminators are both practical and elegant. Enhance the ambience and extend a day outdoors long into the night.
New Zealand’s hospitality scene is second to none, with a plethora of incredible, world-class eateries that ensure we’re never short on places to dine out. But, one thing we’ve been lacking is casual yet sophisticated all-day eateries that run the gamut from morning coffee to brunch, lunch, afternoon drinks, dinner, cocktails and beyond — which is where John Yip and Jamie Yeon’s new cafe (and soon to be cocktail & wine bar), Juno, comes in.
Centered on the food and drink Yip and Yeon themselves seek out, here, you’ll find light and nourishing fare that is simple yet refined, or, in their words, “Just simple and classic things done well.” At this stage, the cafe is open for breakfast, brunch, and lunch — but Juno will soon become an all-day eatery, with wine and cocktails taking centre stage in the evenings.
Anchovy, Egg & Mayonnaise on Seeded Toast Tartine
Vienna Coffee
We have it on good authority that the menu is ever-changing based on what’s fresh and inspiring, but for now, you’ll find a concise edit of thoughtful dishes, many of which hero Juno’s signature seeded bread. The toast, or ‘Seeded Toast Tartine’ is served with toppings such as anchovy, egg and mayonnaise — Juno’s version of Parisian staple Ouef Mayo, curried egg salad, summer tomatoes with goats curd, and smoked salmon with egg and dill labneh.
Other menu items include house-made nut granola with pear butter, a vibrant summer salad with walnuts, quinoa, and fresh nashi pear, and a stunning tiramisu cake. There are also plenty of sweet treats on the counter, including a beautiful selection of cookies and fresh loaves to pair with coffee.
Speaking of which, speciality coffee also forms an essential part of Juno’s offering, and goes well beyond the usual oat flat white. “Our signature is the Vienna,” Yip tells me, “It’s an iced long black infused with demerara sugar and orange peel reduction, topped with sweet cold cream.” Delicious. I can also personally recommend the iced mint mocha, which has fast-become my go-to pick-me-up. What sounds like a decadent treat is in fact light, fresh, beautifully balanced, and gives you just the right amount of buzz to power through a full inbox.
Summer Tomatoes & Goat’s Curd on Seeded Toast Tartine and Latte
The space, imagined to conjure the feeling of a “big city hotel lobby,” was designed by one of New Zealand’s most renowned interior designers, Katie Lockhart — and it shows. Known for her Antipodean-meets-European sensibility, Lockhart has transformed the expansive space into an eatery that feels at once contemporary and casual, cosy and sophisticated. The space is rendered almost entirely in a calming duck egg blue, complimented by white tiling, walnut seating and cabinetry, and sleek lighting which lends the space a refreshing calmness.
The open kitchen is located at the eatery’s mid-point, with high stools at the bar affording guests a front-row seat to the action. There are cosy corners, too, perfectly suited to catch-ups and meetings, and plenty of space to settle in solo for a drink, and bite, and perhaps an hour or two of work on your laptop.
Smoked Salmon Egg & Dill on Seeded Toast Tartine
With a stunning space, Yeon taking great care of diners front-of-house, and Yip working his magic in the kitchen, Juno is certain to leave a lasting impression — guaranteed to become a go-to destination, morning, noon, or night.
Opening hours: Monday — Friday, 7:30am until 3pm Saturday — Sunday, 8am until 3pm
As the saying goes, the way to one’s heart is, more often than not, via the digestive system. And a well-refined palate is both a sign of great taste and decent company. Show someone you care this Valentine’s Day by fuelling them with the finer, tastier things in life. Make wise decisions by placing the responsibility of an enjoyable evening in the hands of the masters of the hospitality craft at one of these fine establishments.
With its expansive waterfront location and much revered celebratory atmosphere, Bivacco is sure to bring the magic this Valentine’s Day. Indulge in a menu that includes a decadent crayfish mornay, a succulent Ranger Valley wagyu T-bone, and velvety chocolate and hazelnut mousse. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will ignite your passion for food… and, if you’re lucky, love.
No one captures the essence of romance quite like the Italians. Take a table in NSP’s classic Italian courtyard, where the enchanting ambience is amore. Then, transport your palate to the heart of Italy as you savour an a la carte lunch or an intimate dinner, prepared as the Italians would, using the freshest ingredients and an abundance of passion.
Celebrate over lunch with an exquisite a la carte menu, or go all out and settle in for the specially curated Valentine’s dinner set menu, meticulously crafted to tantalise the taste buds. Complement your dining experience with a selection of handcrafted cocktails and drink specials expertly designed to enhance the flavours of your meal.
With the option to choose your own romantic setting: either the iconic beachfront location in Mission Bay with its ocean views, or the intimate and stylish space in the heart of Ponsonby, Azabu’s four-course culinary symphony promises to be a testament to the art of Japanese cuisine. From delicate sashimi to succulent dishes fresh from the robata grill, every bite is guaranteed to be delicious.
This Valentine’s Day, let Amano be your culinary cupid. Whether you’re planning a leisurely lunch or an intimate dinner for two, Amano’s all-day dining offers a delectable array of options to satisfy every craving. For a unique experience, snag a seat kitchen-side and watch the talented chefs orchestrate a symphony of flavours. Amano’s dedication to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients ensures that each dish celebrates freshness and quality.
As twilight descends and the city lights twinkle in the heart of Britomart, indulge in an exquisite set menu designed to impress. Ortolana’s dedication to fresh, seasonal produce shines through in every dish, creating a symphony of flavours that will dance on your palate. And for a truly romantic gesture, start your culinary journey with a selection of delectable oysters.
The Hotel Britomart’s Winemaker in Residence series is back, offering two exclusive opportunities to experience the organic artistry of Fromm Winery. Hosted by fine wine storyteller David Nash, these two informative events showcase the essence of Marlborough winemaking — where Old World philosophy meets New Zealand’s unique terroir. Whether you prefer an intimate tasting or a curated degustation, both evenings promise exceptional wines, insightful storytelling, and inspired food pairings from the hotel’s culinary minds.
A Laid-Back Tasting in The Courtyard
On Wednesday, 12th February, Fromm’s winemaker Stephan Walliser joins David Nash and Kingi head chef Stefania Palermo for a relaxed evening of discovery. Set in the central courtyard, this free-flowing tasting experience is perfectly paired with a selection of Kingi’s signature canapés. Expect bright, varietal expressions of Fromm’s organic wines, from the crisp Sauvignon Blanc 2024 to the structured Pinot Noir 2023 and a rare Riesling Spätlese 2024. It’s a casual yet elevated affair, for $75 per person.
For a more immersive experience, Thursday, 13th February brings a five-course degustation to The Libraries at The Hotel Britomart. Hosted by Stephan Walliser, David Nash, and executive chef Andrew Lautenbach, the menu is crafted to highlight the depth and complexity of Fromm’s vintages. The evening features extraordinary pours, including a five-litre Jeroboam of Pinot Noir The Curation 2020 and a 2005 Malbec Magnum. At $199 per person, this is an unmissable evening for fine wine lovers.
There’s nothing quite like planning a trip to give you a necessary morale boost as you settle back into your 9 to 5. If it’s sun, sand, and serenity that you seek, these destinations are well worthy of your attention.
Te Vakaroa Villas: Rarotonga’s Alluring Escape
This exclusive beachfront escape is an oasis of tranquillity and refined elegance
An opulent retreat deserving of its accolade as the ‘Best South Pacific & Oceania Luxury Architectural Design Hotel’ in the World Travel Awards, Te Vakaroa Villas in Rarotonga is an oasis of tranquillity and refined elegance.
As you step into this exclusive haven, a sense of serenity takes hold, signalling the start of an extraordinary escape. The award-winning accommodation is nestled discreetly along the pristine beachfront of Muri Lagoon, and comprises six one or two bedroom villas — impeccably conceived to merge with the Island’s natural allure, each offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Designed by renowned architect Lawrence Sumich, the resort harmoniously blends with its lush surroundings, where spacious interiors converge into outdoor spaces adorned with inviting loungers and a horizon-edged, heated infinity pool. Perfect for a full buyout, the villas are ideal for weddings or milestone birthday celebrations with friends and family. Each villa is thoughtfully appointed and incredibly comfortable, offering convivial communal areas for dining and lounging as well as intimate spaces for relaxation, and moments of secluded respite.
Exquisite, daily tropical breakfasts are just the beginning of the culinary experiences here. With full concierge services to the best dining destinations on Rarotonga, guests can indulge in the island’s vibrant and flourishing culinary scene as well as its plentiful natural wonders. From beachfront strolls to adventurous kayak expeditions, the Island’s many splendours beckon from the unparalleled vantage point this accommodation offers. The only dilemma will be deciding whether to venture out and explore, or savour every moment within the embrace of this heavenly escape.
When it comes to finding the ideal tropical escape, there’s one island that delivers the trifecta; private, pristine and perfect.
Nestled amidst the turquoise waters of Fiji’s Yasawa Islands, Vomo Island Resort is a private paradise that offers an incredible blend of luxury, tranquillity, and adventure. Having captivated travellers from around the world with its understated elegance and genuine hospitality, it comes as no surprise that it was recently voted Fiji’s Best Luxury Resort at the Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards.
The private island, set upon 255 acres, offers an unparalleled sense of space and tranquillity, and is a haven for those seeking a secluded and intimate getaway among stretches of powdery white sand and breathtaking turquoise waters. The resort features a collection of stylish accommodations, from beachfront and hillside villas to large private homes for extended groups of friends and family, with breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean. For the ultimate in luxury, the resort’s six high-end multi-bedroom beachfront residences provide a private oasis complete with butler service and personalised amenities.
Vomo’s culinary offerings are equally as impressive. Two restaurants, The Rocks and Vuda Reef, showcase the best of Fijian and international cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavours. From casual beachfront dining to gourmet fine dining, Vomo has something to satisfy every palate.
Beyond its luxurious amenities, Vomo offers a wide range of activities for guests to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone. An idyllic day at Vomo can include exploring the island’s hiking trails, taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment. For those partial to a more active experience, there is also a wide variety of water sports, including snorkelling, diving, and kayaking.
A dream destination for families, Vomo’s Kids Village is enjoyed by children of all ages. With activities, games, and a dedicated children’s chef, parents are left to relax and unwind, knowing that the kids are having as much fun as they are.
With the children occupied, the adults-only oasis — the Rocks Beach Club, which features a second swimming pool, white cabanas, and aqua floating chairs, is the place to be, and the ideal spot to relax and enjoy the stunning South Pacific sunsets.
With an active commitment to sustainability, the island has implemented substantial eco-friendly initiatives including solar power, water conservation, and organic farming. The recent launch of the Counting Coral Sculptural Coral Gene Bank at Vomo Island is another important step towards their commitment to preserving Fiji’s marine ecosystems for generations to come. This innovative project symbolises a commitment to the restoration and preservation of Fiji’s coral ecosystems — a crucial part of Fiji’s marine environment.
With its unique blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation, Vomo is the perfect destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable tropical island experience. Whether you’re a couple, a family, or a group of friends, Vomo is guaranteed to be a truly memorable escape for anyone lucky enough to visit.
“Good food, good company, and cold drinks,” is what you’ll find at Milford’s newest dining destination — Good Town Burger Shop, nestled in the heart of the beachside suburb. Shaking up the local dining scene with a modern ode to the classic burger bar, Good Town specialises in slightly old-school, expertly prepared burgers. The concise but considered menu pairs familiar favourites with tasty modern takes — running the gamut from smash patty cheeseburgers to Korean fried chicken iterations, with plenty to keep you satiated on the sides front, too.
The space itself is pared-back and unpretentious, with nostalgic nods to the classic American diner peppered throughout — from pops of red to custom emblemed crockery and checkered accents.
The Howdy Burger with Double-Patty
On the food front, the signature cheeseburger is a firm favourite, pairing a smash patty with double layers of gooey cheese, house pickles, and Good Town’s signature ‘good’ sauce, all encased in a pillowy bun. The fried chicken burger is another standout, featuring golden fried chicken thigh, cheddar, lettuce, pickled onion and secret sauce. Vegetarians aren’t forgotten, either, with the vege option featuring a mozzarella-stuffed portobello mushroom patty with tomato, lettuce and truffle mayo.
The Cheese Burger
An essential element to any meal that can oftentimes be an afterthought, Good Town doesn’t fall short on flavour when it comes to their sides, with the eatery’s onion rings already earning cult status, available alongside chicken nibbles (in original or Korean), and loaded fries. Drinks-wise, the burger bar has a bespoke ‘Good Town larger’ on tap, alongside a few local IPAs and wine by the glass — including a tasty chilled red.
Open Tuesday through Saturday for dine-in or takeaway, Good Town Burger Shop is already proving a welcome addition to Milford’s burgeoning dining scene, and looks well worth a trip over the bridge.
With the weather looking promising and summer far from over, why not book an indulgent long lunch al fresco or ‘en terrasse’ style at one of Auckland’s best outdoor dining venues. To guide you in your decision-making, we’ve rounded up a number of the city’s best dining spots for fresh, balmy air and a delicious meal to match.
Settle in on one of Andiamo’s sun-soaked outdoor tables and enjoy the delectable, Italian-inspired fare of Herne Bay’s favourite neighbourhood eatery. Tables fill up fast, so get there early and indulge in a refreshing spritz to kick off what is sure to be a long and convivial afternoon.
Recently opened on College Hill, The College Hill Wine Room by David Nash boasts over 350 expertly curated wines, served by the glass or bottle, best enjoyed on the sprawling, sun-soaked deck with Michelin-starred chef Ryan Moore’s European-inspired share plates. The ultimate retreat for lovers of wine and fine food — this is the perfect place to while away a summer’s afternoon.
Another incredibly popular Viaduct Harbour spot for soaking in the sun while enjoying some stellar hospitality is Bivacco. With a large interior deck that is always bathed in light, as well as wrap-around outdoor tables, the setting here is second to none and the vibes always lively. Sit back with a crisp cocktail in hand and take in Bivacco’s epic vantage point of the Harbour — this is sure to be one of the most sought-after seats this season.
Recently opened in the space that previously housed Orphan’s Kitchen, San Ray is an elevated all-day eatery that caters to all, with myriad options for drinking, dining, stopping by, staying all day, and anything (and everything) in between. Out the back, the covered patio is the perfect spot for convivial drinks and snacks, coming alive in the afternoon and amping up as the sun goes down.
Holding prime position, with tables overlooking the sparkling Viaduct Harbour and festooned with florals from above, there is no better place to celebrate the good life than at Soul. Order a round of satiating cocktails, and a plate or two of delicious food, and settle in for a memorable experience at this stunning stalwart.
Nestled in Ponsonby’s Three Lamps, wine bar Beau enlivens the area with its tasty bites, great drinks and hidden, sunny courtyard. The menu is perfect for grazing, the wine list is ever-changing and always exciting, and the courtyard tables are some of the most coveted in town. If you miss out, there are also a few tables out front to perch and watch the world go by.
Parade’s epic burgers are the perfect compliment to its take on outdoor dining. With beer-garden vibes and a menu of cocktail jugs designed to be shared, we’re all for finding any excuse to tuck into one of its burgers in the sun.
One of Ponsonby’s most popular gastropubs, Hotel Ponsonby, with its light-filled courtyard, is a great location for laid-back sundowners, followed by convivial socialising when the temperature drops. There, enjoy the venue’s satiating plates and thirst-quenching cocktails with a group of friends.
Beloved SkyCity eatery (and Auckland institution) The Grill has returned, now set within Horizon by SkyCity — complete with a sprawling courtyard. Here, you’ll find a refined take on New Zealand’s finest steak and seafood, approached through a contemporary lens, alongside great drinks, and a perfect outdoor dining area to settle in for a springtime meal with friends.
For those workdays that call for a long, out-of-office lunch, Odettes’ glorious courtyard provides the perfect experience. Open, cosy and plant-laden, with a delicious menu to boot, it feels like a refreshing breath of air amid the busyness of City Works Depot.
Nestled in a prime position within Princes Wharf, Somm Wine Bar & Bistro not only affords its guests incredible, waterfront views — both from inside the eatery and the coveted harbourside tables, but is also home to what is perhaps the city’s most impressive collection of wine. Couple this with consistently tasty food and a laid-back vibe, and you’ve got a more than perfect place to spend a relaxed few hours at any time of day.
One of the best spots in the Eastern Beaches, Azabu Mission Bay and its Gin Garden offer the ideal setting in which to savour a long lunch or dinner. There you can enjoy the restaurant’s renowned, Japanese-Peruvian cuisine while looking out to the waters of Mission Bay, and luxuriating in the season’s long, languid afternoons.
Bodgea has quickly solidified itself as a laid-back go-to for city-siders, so sought-after (and delicious) is their New York-style deli fare. With only a small number of tables out front, you’ve got to get in quick to nab an outdoor spot, but the juice is worth the squeeze — affording diners a front row seat to the hustle and bustle of Ponsonby Road.
Boasting a sprawling, sun-soaked terrace (the largest in Central Auckland, in fact), rotating DJs, a stunning fit-out, and a meticulously crafted food and drink menu (no wonder too, with hospitality maestro Fraser Kirby at the helm), Darling on Drake is the place to be for post-work sundowners.
Fancy a fun-filled lunch or dinner with family and friends? Pop into Prego and request one of its outdoor tables for a superior dining experience. Enjoy this stalwart’s tried and true Italian dishes with an expertly-made martini or a glass of wine and relax in the restaurant’s always-busy, vibrant vibe.
Nestled on Parnell’s main strip, Non Solo Pizza is one of our favourite go-to spots for its mouthwatering menu and exceptional atmosphere. There, park up at one of the tables in NSP’s verdant courtyard and be transported to Italy for a long lunch or dinner.
Taking up one of the city’s most coveted positions, First Mates, Last Laugh is a delightful place to drink and dine, with a number of outdoor seating options, a tasty menu — with both grazing options and hearty meals on offer, and great drinks. Nab one of the cosy booths under shade tents, or, if you want to soak up the day’s rays, settle in on the front deck overlooking Westhaven Marina.
Known for being one of the best places to go with kids on Waiheke Island, The Heke in Onetangi is a must-visit springtime destination. Pull up to one of the many outdoor tables (there are under-cover and open-air options), and tuck into something from the wood-fired grill while the little ones amuse themselves on the vast front lawn.
Should you find yourself on Waiheke Island, seeking something substantial to eat after a long day sailing the seas, pull up a perch on Man O’ War’s beloved lawn. With a simple food offering of sharing plates and pizzas, alongside the famous oyster food truck, this is the epitome of springtime dining.
With 270-degree views of the Waitematā Harbour, Queens Rooftop is the pinnacle of al fresco dining, affording diners views east to the Coromandel, to the north, and the west to the Waitakere Ranges. Grab a table as the sun goes down, order a selection of tasty bites and a satiating cocktail, and see where the night takes you.
Another great option for delicious food with kids in tow, Auckland Fish Market boasts a range of flavourful eateries that offer something for everyone — from Lobster & Tap to Oji Sushi and more — all of the food here can be enjoyed onsite, at one of the Fish Market’s many outdoor tables.
On a coveted corner in Remuera, Knead on Benson turns out epic brunch and lunch fare, with a number of outdoor tables lining the street — adding to the neighbourhood eatery’s vibrant ambience. Here, you’re greeted like an old friend, by staff and diners alike, and can count on always-perfect coffee, and food sure to satisfy even the most discerning of diners.
Nestled in Victoria Park is a hidden gem serving delicious Argentinian-inspired, wood-fired food. On a sunny day, Milenta’s retractable roof will be pulled right back to offer diners a full, al fresco experience, where the sun will spill through the tree-lined surroundings, for a beautiful, memorable experience.
With views across Viaduct Harbour, Saint Alice’s elevated position is the ideal spot to watch the world go by with a drink in hand and some tasty food on the table. This is the perfect place for some late afternoon and evening revelry thanks to its sensational setting, seafood-centric menu and great music.
For a classic feed and some drinks by the water, nowhere does casual, laid-back vibes and tasty, easy food like Swashbucklers. Gather some friends, bring the kids, park up at an outside table and tuck into one of Swashies’ famous seafood platters. The perfect way to while away a sunny afternoon.
While there may be more productive things we could be doing with our time, as we enter what for some reason feels like the 36th week of January, at the end of the working day we’re finding ourselves glued to our TV screens. Come the weekend, we’re making for the cinema. This is in large part due to the slew of captivating, cerebral and comic new releases that have us hooked. Here, we’ve rounded up an edit of the new (and upcoming) films and series that have our attention.
New Movies
A Complete Unknown
In cinemas now
Academy Award-nominee Timothée Chalamet is Bob Dylan in this rise-to-fame biopic from Oscar-nominated filmmaker James Mangold. A Complete Unknown follows Dylan’s meteoric rise in the 1960s New York folk scene, culminating in his iconic electric performance at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965. Exploring the icon’s transformation from a young Minnesota musician to a global sensation, redefining folk and rock music in one of history’s most pivotal cultural moments, this soul-stirring film takes viewers to the heart of New York in the early 60s, offering a glimpse into the life and career of one of the world’s greatest musicians.
Babygirl
In cinemas 30th of January
In Babygirl, Nicole Kidman stars as Romy, a high-powered CEO who risks her career and marriage by engaging in a sexually charged affair with her younger intern, played by Harris Dickinson. Directed by Halina Reijn, this erotic thriller explores the power dynamics, emotional complexity, and dark humour in forbidden corporate romance, blending tension with moments of genuine connection.
Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy
In cinemas 13th of February
Nine years on from the 2016 release of Bridget Jones’s Baby comes the much-anticipated fourth Bridget Jones film, based on Helen Fielding’s third book. The hapless-romantic icon is back in fine form, with Hugh Grant reprising his role as Daniel Cleaver, alongside a cast of familiar faces, as Bridget — now in her early fifties, navigates the challenges of modern life while juggling the responsibilities of motherhood.
The Fire Inside
Coming soon
This captivating film tells the inspiring true story of Claressa Shields — arguably the greatest female boxer of all time, who became the only American in the history of the sport to win back-to-back gold medals at the Olympic Games. Directed by Rachel Morrison, written by Barry Jenkins, and starring Ryan Destiny, this gripping biopic captures Shields’ relentless journey to greatness.
The Brutalist
In cinemas now
Adrien Brody stars as visionary architect László Toth in The Brutalist — a sweeping post-war drama from acclaimed filmmaker Brady Corbet. Fleeing Europe in 1947, László dreams of reuniting with his wife Erzsébet (Felicity Jones), but in Pennsylvania, his life takes a fateful turn. Recognised by wealthy industrialist Harrison Lee Van Buren (Guy Pearce), László is tasked with designing a monumental structure that symbolises a nation’s rebirth. Exploring ambition, sacrifice, and identity, this Oscar-nominated period epic reflects the resilience of the human spirit against the backdrop of America’s post-war transformation.
Joy
Watch now on Netflix
A powerful period drama that follows the true story of the world’s first IVF baby, Louise Joy Brown. Starring Bill Nighy, James Norton, and Thomasin McKenzie, the moving film celebrates the perseverance of the medical pioneers behind this groundbreaking achievement, highlighting their triumph over opposition from church, state, media, and medical establishment, and the lasting impact it’s had on so many.
You’re Cordially Invited
On Prime Video 30th January
In this light-hearted escapade, Reese Witherspoon and Will Ferrell star as two determined forces navigating a destination wedding debacle on a remote island off the Carolina coast. When both parties are double-booked at an intimate resort, they agree to share — sparking a cascade of comedic mishaps and self-discovery. As the idyllic setting gives way to unexpected revelations, each character confronts their insecurities, ultimately finding clarity amid the chaos.
Mickey 17
In cinemas 7th of March
South Korean director Bong Joon-ho is succeeding his Oscar-winning social satire, Parasite, with a masterful adaptation of Edward Ashton’s confronting sci-fi novel Mickey 17. Adding to Joon-ho’s impressive oeuvre, the film follows an expendable clone (played by Robert Pattinson) sent on an impossible mission to colonise a distant world. When Mickey inevitably perishes, his body is re-fabricated, though it remains imbued with the previous iteration’s memories. Pattinson masterfully depicts a host of characters with skilful finesse, resulting in a mind-bending exploration of the self.
New TV Series
Bad Sisters
Watch now on Apple TV+
Sharon Horgan‘s dark murder-mystery series, Bad Sisters, is back for a second season, continuing to follow the lives of the raucous Garvey sisters. Two years on from the death of Grace’s abusive husband, the sisters are back in the spotlight, forced to question who, and what, they can trust.
Senna
Watch now on Netflix
This six-part drama series explores the life of Ayrton Senna da Silva, the three-time world championship-winning Formula 1 driver who tragically died in a racing accident 30 years ago. Charting the Brazilian driver’s journey, from seminal triumphs to his fatal accident, Senna showcases the incredible life of the fastest driver of all time.
Black Doves
Watch nowon Netflix
In this fast-paced spy thriller starring Keira Knightley and Ben Whishaw, a suave assassin (Whishaw) is tasked with protecting secret agent Helen Webb (Knightley) who becomes caught up in a complex entanglement. As they uncover a conspiracy linking London’s underworld to a geopolitical crisis, they’re led to question the cost of the moral choices they’ve made.
No Good Deed
Watch now on Netflix
In this dark comedy from Liz Feldman, three very different families vie for the chance to buy a stunning 1920s Los Angeles villa, believing it will solve all their problems. Led by Lisa Kudrow and Ray Romano, the series — full of twists and turns and shadowy characters, uncovers the house’s unsettling secrets, as the families realise their dream home may turn into a nightmare.
Landman
Watch now on Amazon Prime
Delving into climate, economy, and geopolitics, Yellowstone’s Taylor Sheridan brings the high-stakes world of Texas oil to life in Landman. Based on Christian Wallace’s Boomtown podcast, this gripping drama, starring Billy Bob Thornton, John Hamm, and Demi Moore, is a modern-day upstairs/downstairs tale of fortune seeking in the world of oil rigs during a fuelling boom.
Lunar New Year is the most important event on the Chinese cultural calendar and is celebrated by most Asian countries as well as those with large Asian communities. This year, the celebrations will usher in the year of the snake — meaning a year of transformation could be on the way. And what better time than now to embrace a transformation of your very own, overhauling your wardrobe with the raft of striking collections many of the designers are turning out to celebrate the milestone.
From the unveiling of Tiffany & Co.’s themed release to Bulgari’s bespoke collection celebrating both the Lunar New Year and 75 years of Serpenti, a collectible edit from Gucci boasting snake motifs and bespoke prints, and much more sure to inspire indulgence, these are the must-have pieces to shop now.
Founded by our summer issue coverstar Maddison Brown and her sister, Allyson Popovic, Outside Beauty & Skincare is making waves in the beauty industry with its innovative, eco-conscious approach to sun protection.
Reflecting the sisters’ collective passion for sustainability, SPF, and high-performance skincare, Outside Beauty & Skincare was designed for life under the Australian sun. Inspired to create the brand after noticing a lack of elevated, environmentally-conscious SPF products that catered to a diverse range of skin types, the sisters set out to bridge this gap, creating a range of efficacious products that are both luxurious and sustainable.
Every product in the collection, from the SPF 50+ Mineral Primer to the lip and cheek tints, reflects this ethos, combining beauty and practicality, and, most fundamentally — protecting against the harsh Australian sun.
Maddison Brown, Outside beauty & Skincare Co-Founder, Actress, and Model
“Sunscreen is the most important preventative product that you can use in your routine. You May as well throw out all your fancy creams if you’re not using sunscreen.”
Maddison Brown, Outside beauty & Skincare Co-Founder, Actress, and Model
The brand offers a range of SPF products that are not only cruelty-free but also incorporate native Australian botanicals like Kakadu plum, cocoa butter, and raspberry seed oil. These ingredients protect the skin from Australia’s harsh climate while delivering nourishing, antioxidant-rich skincare, making the products perfect for sensitive skin.
In addition to offering effective sun protection, the brand is committed to sustainability. A proud member of 1% for the Planet, Outside Beauty & Skincare donates a portion of sales to environmental causes and plants a tree for every purchase. The brand’s packaging is also thoughtfully designed, using recyclable materials where possible and offering a recycling program for plastic components.
Outside Beauty & Skincare is more than just a beauty brand; it’s a movement towards responsible beauty, setting new standards for eco-friendly SPF in Australia and beyond. With its thoughtful formulations and dedication to the environment, it’s a brand that’s transforming our sun protection habits into an easy daily ritual.
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