Gwyneth Paltrow’s home bar by Romanek Design Studio

In-home bars are an essential addition to the modern home — elevate yours with this edit of essential accoutrements

While of course a well-stocked bar cart serves its practical purpose and brings a certain conviviality to the home, going all out and setting up a fully-fledged bar or cellar takes in-home entertaining to new heights.

Left: Kirribilli Apartment by Tsai Design. Right: Residence B by Studio Albus

For those who love to entertain, a dedicated bar is a must, offering a chic space for hosting and a practical area to store your assemblage of bottles, glassware, and all of the essential accoutrements for cocktail hour.  Or, if space doesn’t allow for a fully dedicated room, home bars can just as easily be integrated into living rooms and kitchens, sitting as a focal point or occupying under-utilised nooks.

“For those who love to entertain, a dedicated bar is a must, offering a chic space for hosting and a practical area to store the essential accoutrements for cocktail hour”

More than a functional corner of the home, bar areas offer an opportunity to add intrigue and depth to any space. Often rendered in contrasting hues to draw the eye, and approached as an opportunity to display your finest decor, these luxurious spaces invite a touch of maximalism into even the most pared-back of spaces. Relish the opportunity to be bold, and push your personal style further than you might in other areas of your home.

And, for those who collect fine wines, you’re in luck — home cellars are also on the rise, offering a practical and impossibly chic storage solution for your prized bottles. From Fisher & Paykel’s integrated kitchen storage options to fully dedicated cellaring rooms, to walls in living spaces dedicated to brilliant bottles, the options are endless — and the impact exceptional. 

Get The Look
Edge House by Hare & Klein
Christofle Iriana Decanter from Studio of Tableware
Christofle Iriana Goblets from Studio of Tableware
Paderno Copper Cocktail Bundle from Studio of Tableware
Christofle Champagne Cooler from Studio of Tableware
Christofle Graphik Double Old Fashioned Tumblers from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Mamba Decanter from Studio of Tableware
Left: Bay House Apartment by Arent & Pyke. Right: 505 UP System by Molteni&C

Veritas Coupe Cocktail Pair from Studio of Tableware
Kingston Ice Bucket from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Laudon Whisky Tumbler from Studio of Tableware
Paderno Moscow Mule from Studio of Tableware
Dawn House by Mim Design featuring Standard sofa by Edra

Design

We’ve consulted the experts at Resene on the colour trend of the year
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On a waterfront site in Sydney, Carter Williamson transforms a historic Victorian cottage into a residence as striking as its surrounds

Lauded sandwich purveyors Pastrami & Rye have popped up in Ponsonby Central — here’s what you need to know

Ellerslie-based deli and sandwich house Pastrami & Rye — which has been on our radar since it opened in 2017 — is known for serving up truly drool-worthy sandwiches and complimentary American fare. Inspired by the bustling delis of New York City, Pastrami & Rye proudly cures its own meats and churns out homemade preserves and pickles, and now, those local to Ponsonby can get their satisfying fix, as founder Dave and his team open the doors to an expansive pop-up in Ponsonby Central.

Dave, who has spent the past two decades in hospitality between New Zealand and New York, conceived Pastrami & Rye as a quintessential American deli — a concept he fell in love with overseas, and felt no one here was yet doing justice in New Zealand.

A fundamental aspect of this — and the deli’s key point of difference — is the ‘from scratch’ approach. Pastrami & Rye butcher, cure, and smoke all of their own meats (including their award-winning namesake pastrami), as well as bake all of their own bread and pastries, and hand-craft the pickles and preserves, “We make the lot!” Dave tells me proudly.

The menu is immense, running the gamut from made-to-order hot sandwiches off the griddle with generous fillings to a host of tasty grab-and-go sandwiches, bagels, and pastries from the cabinet, as well as soups and salads, bacon butties, and beautiful (albiet very decadent) ‘sweets’ — from cherry pie to NY cheesecake.

The reuben deserves a special mention, as it’s likely the best take on the go-to classic you’ll find in the city. It’s brimming with house-made pastrami, sauerkraut and cheese on rye, served hot, with the option to add Russian dressing on the side. Simple, sublime.

The vibe of the space is lively and bustling, the food comes out fast, and you’re always guaranteed to leave satisfied. A true American-style deli in every sense — from the bottomless filter coffee to the food, made with love and respect for its origins, to the space itself — reminiscent of a typical corner deli, right down to the staff uniforms.

Opening hours:
Monday — Sunday, 7am until 3pm

instagram.com/pastramirye

Pastrami & Rye Ponsonby

Ponsonby Central
136/146 Ponsonby Road
Ponsonby
Auckland

Gastronomy

Have you tried Queens Wineshop? Discover the chic, cosy bottle shop in the heart of the city
These are the irresistible new dishes you need to try this weekend at Soul Bar & Bistro
We present Denizen’s definitive guide to Mother’s Day dining

The best looks and fresh inspiration direct from New York Fashion Week

From Calvin Klein’s triumphant return to Khaite’s fresh perspective to Coach’s ode to nostalgia, here, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite looks from the NYFW Fall 25 collections.

Calvin Klein Fall 2025: Understated Refinement with a Modern Edge

After a seven-year absence from New York Fashion Week, Calvin Klein made a highly anticipated return, unveiling its Fall 2025 collection under the direction of Veronica Leoni. The newly appointed creative lead—also the first woman to helm the brand—delivered a masterclass in refined tailoring and quiet luxury, seamlessly blending Calvin Klein’s minimalist DNA with her own European sensibilities.

Bad Bunny
Christy Turlington, Calvin Klein and Kate Moss
Sabrina Elba and Nara Smith

Held at the brand’s West 39th Street headquarters, the show was an intimate yet powerful affair, attended by industry heavyweights like Kate Moss, Christy Turlington, and even the brand’s elusive founder, Calvin Klein himself. The collection, an ode to both New York and Leoni’s Italian roots, was a study in precision and restraint. Think impeccably cut overcoats, razor-sharp suiting, and fluid capes, all crafted in rich, textural fabrics—brushed cotton, supple wool, and silken layers that moved effortlessly down the runway.

There were nods to the brand’s archives, too: oversized scarf coats, a reimagining of Klein’s signature 1990 outerwear, and a playful CK One perfume bottle transformed into an evening clutch. A touch of pop culture nostalgia surfaced in pieces inspired by Jessica Rabbit and Clark Kent—whimsical yet wearable.

While the collection was met with admiration for its craftsmanship and understated luxury, some long-time fans craved a return to Calvin Klein’s signature sensuality. This was minimalism at its finest, yet noticeably restrained—perhaps a necessary recalibration for a brand in transition.

With this debut, Leoni has set the tone for a new era of Calvin Klein: one that honours the past while shaping a fresh, modern identity. And if Fall 2025 was any indication, the future of this American icon is looking decidedly sophisticated.

Khaite Fall 2025: A Masterclass in Dark Elegance

In a city renowned for its fashion prowess, Khaite’s Fall 2025 collection stood out as a testament to New York’s enduring style authority. Creative director Catherine Holstein delivered a lineup that was both a nod to the brand’s signature aesthetic and a bold exploration of new design territories.

The collection was a harmonious blend of sleek silhouettes and rich textures. Leather bomber jackets and sweeping coats exuded a sense of power and sophistication, while chunky knits and deconstructed corsets added depth and intrigue. The introduction of leopard-print pieces and newsboy caps injected a playful yet refined edge, showcasing Holstein’s ability to balance boldness with wearability.

Accessories played a pivotal role in enhancing the collection’s allure. Over-the-knee boots, opera gloves, and ladylike top-handle bags complemented the ensembles, adding layers of sophistication and modernity. The casting of models like Abbey Lee Kershaw and Lulu Tenney further amplified the show’s impact, bringing the designs to life with their commanding presence.

Set against the backdrop of the Park Avenue Armory, the circular runway and a soundtrack featuring The Smashing Pumpkins created an atmosphere that was both nostalgic and contemporary. This setting underscored the collection’s themes of dark elegance and empowered femininity.

Khaite’s Fall 2025 collection is a testament to the brand’s evolution, offering a fresh perspective while staying true to its core identity. It’s a compelling reminder of why New York remains a pivotal force in the global fashion landscape.

Brandon Maxwell Fall/Winter 2025: A Decade of Modern Elegance

Marking ten years in the industry, Brandon Maxwell’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection was a masterclass in effortless sophistication. Presented at New York Fashion Week, the collection captured the designer’s signature blend of structured tailoring and soft femininity, proving why Maxwell remains a go-to for modern power dressing.

With a focus on elevated essentials, the runway showcased a refined palette of black, ivory, and camel, punctuated by bold animal prints that injected a contemporary edge. Silken slip dresses, crisp shirting, and impeccably tailored blazers reflected Maxwell’s deep understanding of wearable luxury, while oversized plaid blouses and slouchy trousers paid homage to the confident ease of 1980s fashion.

Outerwear played a starring role, with sculptural draping and exaggerated collars adding drama to an otherwise restrained collection. Maxwell’s signature ability to balance structure and fluidity was on full display, reinforcing his commitment to timeless, unfussy elegance.

Eschewing spectacle in favor of craftsmanship, the show felt intimate yet impactful—an ode to the modern woman who moves through the world with quiet confidence. As Maxwell enters his next decade, this collection stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to sophisticated, wearable design.

Tibi Fall/Winter 2025: Understated Refinement with a European Edge

For Fall/Winter 2025, Tibi embraced a sense of quiet confidence, blending effortless tailoring with a distinctly European sensibility. Inspired by a recent trip to Antwerp, creative director Amy Smilovic and head of design Traci Bui-Amar infused the collection with the city’s unique duality—where historic architecture meets cutting-edge modernity.

This juxtaposition translated seamlessly into the collection. Structured blazers and precision-cut trousers sat alongside fluid layers, striking a balance between sharpness and ease. Unexpected fabric pairings—wool with technical cotton, supple leather against crisp shirting—added depth to the clean-lined silhouettes, reinforcing Tibi’s signature approach to relaxed sophistication.

The palette was restrained yet impactful, with rich jewel tones anchoring a base of neutral hues. Much like the cobbled streets and minimalist galleries of Antwerp, textures played a central role—plush knits, refined wools, and sleek leathers creating a quietly luxurious finish. Accessories remained true to the brand’s ethos: streamlined leather bags and understated footwear complemented rather than competed with the clothes.

At its core, Tibi’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection was a masterclass in elevated essentials. Thoughtfully constructed, endlessly versatile, and inherently modern, it reaffirmed the brand’s place as the go-to for those who value impeccable design without the fuss.

Coach Fall/Winter 2025: Effortless Cool Meets Heritage Craft

For Fall/Winter 2025, Coach delivered a collection that perfectly balanced nostalgia with modern relevance. Under Stuart Vevers’ creative direction, the brand continues to refine its signature blend of rugged Americana and downtown edge—this time with an emphasis on craftsmanship, sustainability, and undeniable wearability.

The collection embraced a lived-in luxury, with distressed leathers, slouchy outerwear, and reworked denim exuding effortless cool. Patchwork trousers and deconstructed knits reinforced a relaxed, slightly undone aesthetic, nodding to the brand’s (Re)Loved initiative, which breathes new life into archival pieces.

Jared McCain 
Emily Ratajkowski
Tommy Dorfman

Accessories made just as much of a statement, with the debut of the Empire Carryall 34 and its petite counterpart, the Empire 21—destined to be the next cult-favorite handbags. With elongated straps and structured silhouettes, they seamlessly transitioned from look to look, proving their versatility as the ultimate everyday companions.

The palette remained true to Coach’s DNA—earthy neutrals met rich jewel tones, while textures played a starring role, from buttery leathers to soft shearling. Layered styling underscored the brand’s signature approach to practical luxury, perfect for those who embrace effortless dressing with a hint of rebellion.

With Fall/Winter 2025, Coach reaffirmed its place in the fashion landscape—not just as a heritage brand, but as a label that understands how people want to dress today: easy, cool, and always with an air of authenticity.

Coveted

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A masterful pairing: Master of Wine Sam Harrop at The Lodge

An evening of rare elegance awaits at The Lodge in Commercial Bay, where celebrated Master of Wine Sam Harrop will showcase his exceptional collection. Known for his philosophy of “beautiful simplicity,” Harrop crafts wines that speak of purity and restraint, allowing the essence of the vineyard to shine.

The Lodge

This exclusive experience on February 26th is elevated further by an exquisite menu from Executive Chef Matt Lambert. A master of balance and nuance himself, Lambert has curated a selection of dishes designed to perfectly complement Harrop’s wines. From heirloom tomatoes with fromage blanc to wild wapiti deer with bone marrow, each course is a thoughtful interplay of flavour and texture, culminating in a decadent puff pastry-baked camembert.

Sam Harrop

With a few surprises in store, this promises to be an evening of exceptional food, rare wines, and refined conviviality. Tickets are $175 per person, and include five courses with wine pairings. Secure your spot here.

Gastronomy

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Flowers After Hours

11 of the finest florists to put your faith in this Valentine’s Day

This year, we suggest you avoid the expected and forgo the red roses in favour of something a little more remarkable — and suited to the receiver’s personality. Are they partial to a more classic style, à la Femme Fleur? Or something more modern, like Flowers After Hours’ vibrant bouquets? Nevertheless, we’ve whittled it down to the eight floral visionaries that will ensure 2025’s Valentine’s Day will be a memorable one.

Flowers After Hours

An Auckland institution since 1990 (and Denizen’s 2024 Everyday Heroes winner), Flowers After Hours is the go-to for luxury blooms, open early ‘til late, seven days a week. Their Radical Love Valentine’s collection blends timeless romance with contemporary flair — think classic red roses alongside statement-making arrangements. The ‘Bold Embrace‘ bouquet is a vibrant mix of pink chrysanthemums, red roses, and burgundy smokebush, wrapped in their signature bloom bag, while the ‘Forever Flame‘ is a masterclass in minimal elegance, featuring a single premium red rose with pink smokebush in a sleek glass vase. Whether you’re after a grand gesture or something quietly sophisticated, Flowers After Hours has you covered.

Left: Flowers After Hours. Right: Blush Flowers

Blush Flowers

Crowned Runner Up in our 2024 Denizen Everyday Heroes, and continuing to prove the many reasons why, Kelly Karam has forged a pioneering path in the flower-arranging game with Blush, going far beyond the average, paper-wrapped bunch. Opt for one of Blush’s unique carrier bunches this Valentine’s — available in an easy-to-carry contraption with handles instead of the usual paper wrapping (perfect for a dinner date surprise), or go all out with their Loved Up Pamper Gift Box, complete with J’amie macarons, Love Loco chocolates, handmade soap, a Maison Balzac Le Rose candle and a simple red rose.

Greenpoint

For those who love florals with an artistic edge, Denizen 2024 Everyday Heroes runner-up Greenpoint should be your go-to. Founded by floral artist Georgie Malyon, this Grey Lynn gem brings a contemporary, design-led approach to every arrangement — whether for home, office, weddings, or grand installations. This Valentine’s Day, expect lush, textural bouquets that feel effortlessly romantic yet refreshingly modern, alongside an edit of dried flowers, art prints, plants and curio for those seeking something outside of the ordinary.

Hands in the Dirt

For those who cherish nature in its purest form, Hands in the Dirt offers wild, whimsical arrangements that celebrate the beauty of seasonal, locally grown blooms. Situated on a 12-acre farm in Ahuroa Valley, this mother-daughter-run flower farm follows regenerative principles, ensuring each bouquet is as sustainable as it is stunning. This Valentine’s Day, expect delicate, hand-tied arrangements brimming with character — no mass production, just nature at its best. Find their bouquets at Tessuti during the week, or connect directly for a bespoke bunch.

Left: Blush Flowers. Right: Floralcentric

Kensal Flower Studio

After spending five magical years working at London’s Scarlet and Violet, Liv Wakem moved home to New Zealand to start Kensal Floral Studio in 2018. Located in the heart of Kingsland and, alongside beautiful bespoke arrangements in their signature wild, colourful style, Kensal stocks a range of cards, candles, glassware and more, making for somewhat of a one-stop gift shop. Kensal’s Valentine’s Day bunches are highly sought-after, so we would recommend getting in quick to secure yours in time for the big day. 

Left: Kensal Flower Studio. Right: Rose Tinted Flowers

La Femme Fleur

This moveable feast of the floral kind is the brainchild of Millie Austin, who you’ll find posted up on Shore Road in Remuera. Her stunning bouquets are fanciful and romantic, and will never disappoint. Alongside bouquets, Austin also offers a floral subscription service for those who simply must have fresh flowers in their home all the time — far beyond V. Day. Choose your preferred colour, consistency and duration, and beautiful blooms will be delivered to your door for as long as you desire.

Left: Isadia Floral. Right: La Femme Fleur

Isadia Floral

Talented florist Isabel Johnston first started in the industry over a decade ago, and quickly built up a reputation for her signature, naturalistic designs. Johnston founded Isadia Floral with co-florist Lydia Reusser in November 2020, and together the duo offers retail bouquets and subscription flowers, personalised in-home and workspace styling, and flowers for weddings and events. For each occasion, including Valentine’s Day, they incorporate foraged plants and sourced flowers in unstructured yet elegant bouquets.

The Botanist

For big, bouncing bouquets (and equally swoon-worthy dried arrangements), look no further than The Botanist. With a focus on foliage to create eye-catching bunches with depth, The Botanist’s florists are experts when it comes to crafting unconventional and undeniably beautiful flowers to cherish — and will make any recipient feel special. Their Valentine’s Edit runs the gamut from whimsical and romantic to grand and passionate, with both fresh and dried arrangements available.

Left: The Botanist. Right: Grace and Flora

Grace And Flora

Inspired by her passion for connecting with people and with nature, Hannah Low started Grace and Flora in 2017, and then, in 2021, moved her operation to Faradays luxury department store. There, visitors will find Low’s exceptional arrangements, filling the space with an air of colourful optimism. After all, Low’s bouquets are beloved for their big, bold presence and their sculptural shapes, and are perfectly suited to sit alongside the latest collections from the likes of Loewe, Celine and more.

Floralcentric

Another name that specialises in wedding and event blooms (but shouldn’t be passed up for an individual bouquet, either) Floracentric is a contemporary floristry studio offering arrangements that are sleek and sophisticated while also feeling decidedly modern and grounded in the now, each artistically put together in what feels like a careful and purposeful way. This Valentine’s Day, select a design from their impressive offering (if you ask us, The Bright One is a sight to behold) or ask for something entirely bespoke.

Rose Tinted Flowers

Rose Tinted Flowers

Inspired by her florist mother, Rosie Holt started Rose Tinted Flowers in 2015 and it has since grown a reputation for creating some of the dreamiest bouquets in town. Aside from creating beautiful arrangements, Rose Tinted Flowers also has a strong focus on reducing the waste that comes with the industry, opting for locally grown florals and replacing standard materials such as floral foam with natural alternatives. This Valentine’s Day, Rosie and her team are offering a number of striking arrangements, from the ‘Dreamboat Bouquet‘ — sure to set hearts fluttering with a truly stunning mix of roses, hydrangeas, carnations and anthuriums, all presented in a glass vase, to the simple yet stunning ‘Roses in a Vase‘.

Culture

A new way to experience Auckland’s cultural heart — together
Consult our guide to the best mom-centric movies to watch this Mother’s Day
Wondering what to watch this autumn? Discover these unmissable new shows & films

Update your playlist with our round-up of the new albums and podcasts that have our attention

There’s no better time than now to update your playlists with some recently-released tunes, from the evocative musical stylings of The Cure to a new soul-stirring album from The National. And if long walks or road trips are on the agenda, we have also lined up a selection of addictive podcasts to subscribe to for some entertaining and informative listening.

New Albums


The Epilogue
Dean Lewis 

Dean Lewis’ third, full-length LP, The Epilogue, marks a new chapter in his journey, blending vulnerability and vitality. Written between tours, Lewis reflects on the past while hinting at the future. Featuring his signature emotional depth, the album solidifies his unique style and artistic evolution.

Song to start with: All I Ever Wanted

Songs Of A Lost World
The Cure 

“The most intense, saddest, most dramatic and most emotional record [The Cure have] ever made,” according to Roger O’Donnell — and rumoured to be the iconic English post-punk rock band’s last, Songs of A Lost World is set to embrace the melancholic and lovesick themes the group has long-been known for, offering a moving meditation on love and loss. 

Song to start with: A Fragile Thing

Rome
The National 

Recorded at the Parco Della Musica Ennio Morricone in the Eternal City, The National’s Rome is a 21-track live album spanning 

20+ years of the lauded band’s discography. Reinvigorating beloved classics like “I Need My Girl” and “Bloodbuzz Ohio,” alongside new rarities, Rome beautifully captures the band’s dynamic live performances and ever-evolving sound.

Song to start with: Humiliation

Late To The World
IDER

IDER’s Late To The World is a bold evolution of the duo’s sound, blending lush electronics, blistering indie rock, and cinematic storytelling. Produced by Dann Hume, the 12-track album features singles like “Unlearn” and “You Don’t Know How to Drive,” marking a journey of self-discovery and creative maturity for the alt-pop sensations. 

Song to start with: Late To The World

New Podcasts


The Dilemma 

In a series of funny, uncomfortable, and inspiring conversations, journalist Gina Rushton speaks to psychologists, political observers, activists, philosophers, and fertility specialists who all share the load in carrying a dilemma that can feel all too heavy at a time of uncertainty — should we become parents? 

Shell Game

A podcast about things that aren’t as they seem by journalist Evan Ratliff. In Season One, Ratliff creates a voice clone connected to an AI chatbot and sets out to discover what happens when you try to control the technology that seeks to replace you, and what to expect from a future in which people may not be what they seem. 

Friendship Therapy

In a follow-up to her beloved series, Best Friend Therapy, respected psychotherapist and author Emma Reed Turrell explores the nuances of friendship through a therapist’s lens, talking to real people about real-life friendships, unpacking and exploring these pivotal relationships with honesty, compassion, and practical wisdom.

Parental as Anything: Teens

This enlightening podcast gives practical advice on how to navigate raising teens, from porn to partying, body issues to bullying, and a veritable spectrum in between. Rebecca Sparrow, teen educator and author, speaks to parents and experts alike, unpacking the biggest challenges of parenting teens. 

Culture

A new way to experience Auckland’s cultural heart — together
Consult our guide to the best mom-centric movies to watch this Mother’s Day
Wondering what to watch this autumn? Discover these unmissable new shows & films

The best face, body, and hair SPFs that deserve a place in your beach bag


The sun is out in full force this week, which means that sun protection is at the top of the agenda. Instead of coating yourself in a substance that resembles PVA glue or slathering your skin in a greasy, sticky formula — add one of these mighty formulations to your arsenal. Trust us, you will never look back.

Here, we round up the best protectants for your face, body, and hair this season.

shop face


shop body


shop hair


Wellbeing

We sit down with Lucy Caldwell and Bella Ireland, founders of the new self-tan-meets-skincare brand making waves
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Elevate your beauty routine with the season’s simplest but most impactful trend — bold eyeliner
Outdoor Collection by Tribù from Dawson & Co.
Estendo sofa and Orson director chairs by Roda from ECC
Drake outdoor dining table and Trio outdoor chairs by Minotti from ECC
Laze lounge chair by Roda from ECC

Discover the latest in al fresco inspiration with the season’s most coveted outdoor furniture

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. 

Left: Lisson outdoor dining chairs by Soho Home from Design Central. Right: Plumon outdoor dining chair by Kettal from Studio Italia.

Outdoor Able table by Bensen from Tim Webber
Angelo M dining table by Alinea from Studio Italia
Neil Twist chair by MDF Italia from Matisse


Laid-Back Living 


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. 

Mesh sofa by Kettal from Studio Italia
Sway sofa by Molteni&C from Dawson & Co.
Francesca outdoor pouf from Design Warehouse
Tajine coffee table by Paola Lenti from ECC
Outdoor Able sofa by Bensen from Tim Webber


Cosy Corners


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.

Elianto sofa by Paola Lenti from ECC
Petalo armchair by Molteni&C from Dawson & Co.

Left: Marenco outdoor sofa by Arflex from Studio Italia. Right: The Le Club outdoor armchair by Poliform from Studio Italia.


Poolside Paradise


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. 

Cask outdoor chaise lounge by Exporium from ECC

Trampoline sunbed by Cassina from Matisse
Guell sunlounger by Molteni&C from Dawson & Co.
The Amazon aluminium sunlounger from Design Warehouse


Shady Sanctuary


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.

Left:Tuuci octagonal parasol by Soho Home from Design Central. Right: Paladin Parasol by Kettal from Studio Italia.

Bistro parasol by Paola Lenti from ECC
Tuuci octagonal parasol by Soho Home from Design Central
Palma umbrella by Royal Botania from ECC


Splash Out


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. 

Ufo outdoor bath by Agape from Matisse
Borghi bath by Antoniolupi from Matisse


Guiding Lights


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.

Float table lamp by Axolight from Tim Webber
Follow Me Plus lamp by Marset from ECC
Gray Bell portable lamp by Tom Dixon from ECC
Objects Bela lamp by Kettal from Studio Italia
Bellhop table lamp by Flos from ECC
Luna Lamp by Tribù from Dawson & Co.
Cestita Alubat lamp by Santa & Cole from ECC
Hipatia LED lamp from Matisse
Dome Nomad light by Brokis from ECC.

Design

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Meet Juno — the sleek new all-day eatery from the duo behind Omni

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

junoauckland.com

Juno

The Greenhouse
20 Williamson Avenue
Grey Lynn
Auckland

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Celebrate love, friendship, or simply the good life over a delicious Valentine’s Day dinner

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.

Bivacco

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.

Book your table here

Non Solo Pizza

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.

Book your table here

Ebisu

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.

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Azabu Mission Bay & Ponsonby

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.

Book your table here at Azabu Mission Bay
Book your table here at Azabu Ponsonby

Amano

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.

Book your table here

Ortolana

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.

Book your table here

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