King Richard.

The most entertaining and engrossing movies to add to your watchlist

If you’re looking for some summer escapism, these feature films will whisk you away from the first scene. From a Western epic filmed in New Zealand to the lives of Venus and Serena Williams, these captivating new releases run the gamut of great entertainment — wherever they take us.

The Power of the Dog
Tightening the reins on what a Western epic can be, The Power of the Dog is a masterpiece of a melodrama set in Montana. Written and directed by the critically-acclaimed Jane Campion, and filmed in atmospheric locations across New Zealand, it tells the gripping story of a staunch rancher who seems to despise his brother and his new family. Adapted from the riveting novel by Thomas Savage, there is a remarkable depth of character for the leads, Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons and Kodi Smit-McPhee, while the audience is kept on tenterhooks until the final scene. Watch on Netflix.

The Lost Daughter
With an electrifying cast of Olivia Colman, Dakota Johnson and Paul Mescal, The Lost Daughter takes us on a terrible vacation, as a woman’s encounter with a brash young family makes her question the difficult decisions she made during her own early motherhood. An adaption of the eponymous novel by Elena Ferrante, and the directorial debut of Maggie Gyllenhaal, this movie is menacing yet moving. Watch on Netflix.

West Side Story
Bringing a modern cinematic beauty to a Broadway classic, Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story is a tragic allegory of young love and fierce rivalries in 1950s New York. Starring Ansel Elgort as Tony and Rachel Zegler as Maria, we’re ready to be swept away by this monumental musical. In cinemas now.

Finch
Tom Hanks is back to break our hearts in Finch. As the last human left on earth, he brings sincerity to a sickly inventor who creates a robot to protect his dog, and to teach him the wonder of living while he still can on an adventurous trip through the post-apocalyptic West. Watch on Apple TV+.

Bergman Island
Filmed on Fårö — the island where Ingmar Bergman’s most existential movies were made — Bergman Island follows a fictional filmmaker couple at a writer’s residency. As they work on their art-house screenplays, their own reality becomes more tenuous as their scripts come to life. This Cannes-selected drama will stay with you long after the closing credits. Catch Bergman Island at the In The Shade film festival on 22 Jan & 1 Feb, and in mainstream cinemas from March.

Best Sellers
A heartwarming film with razor-sharp wit is hard to come by, but we have found it in Best Sellers. When a publishing house heiress (Aubrey Plaza) drags a reclusive and cantankerous author (Michael Caine) on a book tour in a bid to save the company, they learn not to judge a book by its cover, so to speak. In cinemas now.

Spencer  
If you’re looking for a sympathetic portrait of the royals, this is not it — but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be added to the top of your watch list. Directed by Pablo Larrain (who also directed Jackie), Spencer stars Kristen Stewart who offers a deft portrayal of Diana, Princess of Wales. It takes place at the Queen’s Sandringham Estate during three days over the Christmas period, and is an imagining of what could have happened throughout that time. Diana’s marriage to Prince Charles has well and truly fallen apart, and she must make some devastating decisions. In cinemas 20 January.

King Richard 
His daughters are sporting legends, and now the father of Venus and Serena Williams gets his turn on the podium in this emotive biopic starring Will Smith. It focuses on the drive and tenacity of Richard Williams, who was undeterred in his mission to raise two tennis greats. In cinemas 13 January.

Ghostbusters: Afterlife
Blending nostalgia with just enough fresh new energy, the long-awaited second sequel to the iconic 1984 film is oodles of fun. After moving to a remote town, a single mum and her two kids discover their connection to their grandfather — and the original Ghostbusters. In cinemas now.

The Harder They Fall
In this rollicking film, described as a ‘righteously new school Western’, Jonathan Majors stars as an outlaw who discovers his enemy (Idris Elba) is being released from prison. He assembles his gang to seek revenge, and plenty of high stakes action ensues. Watch on Netflix.

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This grown-ups Negroni slushy is just the thing to combat the warm weather

Poised to swipe frosé’s title as the ‘ultimate refresher’, the frozen Negroni is one to get on board with this season. The sophisticated slushy merges the classic cocktail’s bitterness with a fruity orange kick — it’s an excellent way to wet one’s whistle.

Frozen Negroni Slushy Recipe
Serves 6-8

Ingredients:
350ml orange juice
120ml Campari
120ml gin
120ml sweet vermouth
4 cups of ice
Fresh orange for garnish

Method:
To make, simply put all the ingredients in a blender then blitz until smooth. If time allows, pop back into the freezer for half an hour to set, otherwise divide between six to eight glasses (depending on how thirsty you are), garnish with a slice of fresh orange and enjoy.

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Bather swim shorts, brand available locally from Workshop

Kick sand in others faces this season by bringing some stylish clout to your swim short game

As you brush up on your backyard cricket and beach volleyball skills, why not also invest in a new pair of the undefeated summer staple, beach shorts? Whether you go for designer monograms (looking at you Burberry and Gucci), or go for modern patterns (we see you Saint Laurent), opt for the new, slightly cropped boardshorts in classic colourways for the win.

Left to right: Bather Weave swim shorts from Workshop, Monogram Print swim shorts from Burberry.
Left to right: Monogram swim shorts from Louis Vuitton, Bather Solid Black swim shorts from Workshop.
Left to right: Bather Solid Olive swim shorts from Workshop, Saint Laurent Tie-Dyed swim shorts from Mr Porter.
Left to right: Bather Bandana swim shorts from Workshop, Black swim shorts from Balenciaga.
Left to right: Camo Printed swim shorts from Louis Vuitton, Waterproof nylon swim shorts from Gucci.

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Miss Polly's Kitchen chicken satay

Got the BBQ all fired up? These chicken satay skewers make for a delicious addition to any summer spread

A homemade peanut satay sauce has myriad uses; eat with steamed vegetables and tofu, add to a sandwich or use as a dipping sauce for rice paper rolls.

This recipe from Miss Polly’s Kitchen takes juicy chicken skewers, marinated and coated in a fragrant satay sauce, and serves them alongside rice and salad for a healthy and delicious meal.

Chicken satay recipe
Serves 5 people

Ingredients:
Chicken marinade
10 chicken thighs (roughly 900g-1kg)
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp sugar
2 cm piece of ginger, grated
3 large garlic cloves, minced
Salt & pepper
Olive oil
12-15 skewers depending on how big you cut your chicken pieces, soaked in water to prevent burning

Salsa
½ cucumber
½ pineapple, remove the core
½ medium red onion
Juice of 1 lime
Coriander
Salt & pepper

Peanut satay sauce
1 tbsp of red curry paste
½ cup of coconut cream (plus 1/3 cup coconut cream for later in the process)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sugar
1/3 cup crunchy peanut butter
Juice of 1 lime

To serve
Rice (2 cups rice cooked with 4 cups of water)
Coriander

Method:
1. Heat the oven to 200°C fan bake.
2. Cut the chicken into large bite-size pieces and toss in all marinade ingredients into a bowl.
3. Put the chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers and bake for 18 – 20 minutes.
4. While the chicken is cooking, cook the rice.
5. Chop all salsa ingredients, mix and add to a serving bowl.
6. In a small pot add the red curry paste and 1/2 cup of coconut cream, cook for a few minutes then add the soy sauce, sugar, peanut butter and the other 1/3 of a cup of coconut cream then lime juice and simmer for another few minutes.
7. Serve chicken skewers with satay sauce, rice, salsa and garnish with lots of coriander.

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Amanda Gorman

These excellent contemporary poetry books are both thought-provoking and inspiring

Appeal to your inner bard, or someone else’s, with a book of acclaimed poetry. Whether you pick these collections up at a whim for a bite-sized verse or get stuck in and immerse yourself, these are three luminous poetic voices to know now.

Call Us What We Carry by Amanda Gorman
Commanding the world’s attention when she read her verse ‘The Hill We Climb’ at U.S. President Biden’s inauguration, Amanda Gorman is one of the brightest poetic voices of her generation. Her debut collection Call Us What We Carry explores grief and healing, hope and identity. “For me, this book is a receptacle, a time capsule both made by and for its era,” said Gorman. “What is poetry if not a mirror for our present and a message for our future?”

Rotten Days in Late Summer by Ralf Webb
Direct and insightful, sharp yet tender, this debut has been hailed as a vital new arrival in British poetry. Describing the complexities of life with ease, it ruminates on Webb’s formative years spent in the UK’s West Country, examining wider issues of youth and class, love, illness and death, mental health and masculinity, all with his clear-eyed prose.

Poems 1962-2020 by Louise Glück
Become immersed in the world of the quietly visionary Louise Glück with this career-spanning book. Winner of the 2020 Nobel Prize in Literature, Glück is known and loved for her sparse yet intimate writing; the intelligence and wisdom of her voice. Get to know its evolutions with this volume of the twelve collections Glück has published to date.

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Maximising space and liveability, this refined Sydney terrace house benefits from sleekly integrated appliances

When architect and photographer Tom Ferguson was approached to renovate this Surry Hills, heritage-listed terrace house, he was prepared for a challenge. The former boarding house had been sitting derelict for 20 years, but with four storeys and grand frontage, its beautiful bones were ripe for both restoration and modernisation.

The resulting abode has been expertly realised with refined elegance, a tempered backdrop that allows for the furniture and artworks of its residents to shine.

Left: French Door integrated refrigerator, 90cm (with clients own cabinetry doors) RS90A1. Right: Classic style Freestanding cooker in Black, 90cm OR90SCG6B1.

On the main level, the kitchen is located a few steps down from the dining room. “As it’s relatively concise, it was very important we integrated as much as possible into the joinery, to maximise space,” says Ferguson. This included appliances, with Fisher & Paykel proving the natural choice thanks to its expansive range that allows for ultimate freedom of expression.

While the Classic style Freestanding cooker is exposed to form an attractive focal point, a fully integrated Dishwasher was opted for, and a French Door integrated refrigerator behind the client’s own cabinetry. This harmonious arrangement offers a kitchen to be enjoyed, or as Ferguson puts it “a kitchen that is comfortable to hang out in and live in, rather than just a functional space.”

A thoughtful treatment indeed of a room that is so often the heart of the home.

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Oruawharo Cottage

An Editor’s guide on where to stay, eat and play on Aotea Great Barrier Island

I first experienced the rugged beauty of Aotea, Great Barrier Island, for an Easter camping trip around seven years ago, and it has had a firm hold on me ever since. This summer will mark my third year ringing in a new one on the island with some of my favourite people, and taking some much-needed time away from it all.

Larger than you might expect (285km2 compared to Waiheke Island’s 92km2) there’s plenty to see and do on Barrier, but the fact that it is just that bit further from mainland Auckland — and has no reticulated power or water — means life is a little more off the grid. And locals like to keep it that way. Get there on a 30-minute flight from Auckland on a small plane or take the four-and-a-half-hour journey on the Sealink ferry (this way you can also take your car).

Oruawharo Beach House
Oruawharo Cottage

Where to stay
When you want to escape from it all but not sacrifice creature comforts, I suggest booking one of the Oruawharo properties —there’s a four-bedroom Beach House or a two-bedroom Cottage on a 16-acre expanse of secluded land, 50 metres from the beach. Both were designed by renowned firm Fearon Hay Architects; the main beach house is a 185sqm, L-shaped building with breathtaking ocean views, high-spec facilities, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a central entertaining courtyard and full-length glass doors that open completely to the elements. The adjacent cottage can be booked separately; perfect for smaller groups, it is special in its own right with two bedrooms, two ensuites and a well-appointed kitchen. Both properties allow you to self-cater with ease and enjoy the sweeping beach vistas.

Where to soak
An easy 45-minute walk through expansive bushlands will take you to the Kaitoke Hot Springs, a sulphurous, naturally heated stream with various deeper pools dotted along its length. If you’re feeling adventurous, head along at sundown (don’t forget to take a head torch) for a nighttime soak under the most incredible starry sky. (The whole of Aotea is a Dark Sky Sanctuary.)

Left: Image Courtesy of Aotea. Right: Palmer’s Track.

Best spots to swim and surf
If visiting Barrier in the summer, swimming every day (or multiple times a day) is a given. Many of the beaches are popular for both swimming and surfing — for those after calmer waters, head to Kaitoke, Blind Bay and Harataonga, whereas Awana, Medlands, Whangapoua and Okiwi usually have bigger, rolling waves to catch. Make sure you check the forecast as many of the beaches can be calm one day and more surfable the next.

My Fat Puku

Where to eat
When we stay on Barrier for longer than a weekend, we self-cater by checking food boxes onto the plane or taking them with us in the car on the ferry. The island’s general stores in Tryphena, Claris, Whangaparapara and Port Fitzroy also sell a good variety of supplies including fresh produce, milk and bread and liquor. Plan ahead and you could also order organic produce boxes from Okiwi Passion, a small independent farm in Okiwi Basin.

There are plenty of options for when cooking gets tiresome — Swallow Burger is a tiny hut that does some of the best burgers on or off the island, which the queues will attest to; stop into My Fat Puku for coffee and lunch during the day or woodfired pizzas at night; and Pa Beach Cafe is also a great spot for brunch, lunch, coffee and cabinet treats. 

Left: Aotea Brewing. Right: Island Gin

Where to drink
Find plenty of options to slake one’s thirst, including take-home bottles from award-winning distillery Island Gin (also available for purchase at Okiwi Passion), and beer company and refillery Aotea Brewing. Should you want someone else to take care of the pint-pouring, Currach Irish Pub in Tryphena is a beloved pitstop for a brew. The pub also does a great wood-fired pizza and hot chips, and is usually heaving. As such, don’t be surprised if you bump into someone you know.

Mt Hobson

Where to walk
The journey to the summit of Mt Hobson offers many opportunities to admire the majesty of nature. There are two routes — the Kaiaraara Track, which is a full day’s walk around three hours each way from Port Fitzroy, or take Palmer’s Track via Windy Canyon. I recommend the latter, with both Windy Canyon and Palmer’s Track offering spectacular views in many directions as you traverse the ridge. Just be sure you’re prepared to walk up many stairs in the initial 15-minute climb up to Windy Canyon. Seriously, it’s a burner. But, it’s worth it, especially when you’re likely to spot the native kākāriki and kākā that love the area.

Elsewhere, the Dolphin Bay/Ross Bay Track is a sweet bushwalk, steep and rocky in places, that ends at two different, private bays depending on which turn you take along the way. From Tryphena, drive 1km along Cape Barrier Road and park at the entrance, then commence the 3-hour return walk. Follow the track to Dolphin Bay or take a fork 25 minutes into the walk for Ross Bay — both are secluded and boast some of the clearest waters to be found on the island, perfect for swimming, snorkelling or even fishing. Take a picnic and you’ve got yourself a nice day trip.

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Feeling creative? Try whipping up this Peroni Margarita cocktail recipe

What happens when a bottle of Peroni beer meets the quintessential ingredients of a margarita? Why a ‘largarita’ of course. This clever recipe creates a refreshing, bubbly cocktail that’s perfect for toasting to the weekend.

Peroni Margarita Recipe
Makes 2

Ingredients:
1 shot tequila
1 shot fresh lime juice
1 shot Cointreau
1 bottle Peroni
Lime zest (to garnish)

Method:
1. Combine tequila, lime juice and Cointreau in a shaker.
2. Add ice to just above the level of the liquid and shake for 5 seconds. 
3. Strain into glasses filled with ice and top with Peroni. Garnish with lime zest.

Add extra lime slices or salt the rim of your glass for an extra finishing touch.

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Hit the play button on these new album releases you’ll be listening to on repeat

Looking for a soundtrack for your summer? These new and recently released albums deserve to be queued up for a groove-worthy ambience.

This Is What It Feels Like by Gracie Abrams
Gracie Abrams cultivated a following on social media far before she began officially recording songs, for her intimate, plaintive ballads sung to camera with usually only her guitar or sparsely played piano. The daughter of American film director J.J Abrams, she’s fast becoming a star in her own right and this is solidified with the release of her debut This Is What It Feels Like — it’ll make you simultaneously long for young love in all its tumultuous glory, and be glad if you’re past that stage of life.

The Overflow by French For Rabbits
Local band French For Rabbit’s third album weaves dark and anthemic tunes around folk-pop hooks — and is quintessentially absorbing. Led by Brooke Singer, let the dreamy yet catchy melodies provide the perfect soundtrack for a relaxing summer afternoon reverie.

Valentine by Snail Mail
Lindsey Jordan, who performs under the moniker Snail Mail, delves into the sometimes sublime and sometimes painful sides of love with her highly lauded second album. Sing along with Jordan’s endearingly unaffected vocals and snappy guitar riffs on this indie gem you’ll have on repeat.

Still Over It by Summer Walker
An R&B break-up album with plenty of bops, R&B songstress Summer Walker enchants with her smooth, effortless vocals on Still Over It. Featuring cameos from SZA, Omarion and more, the 25-year-old’s second studio release is as much an excellent backdrop for drinks or dinner as it is an emotive back-to-back listen.

Thank You by Diana Ross
The music legend’s 25th studio album embraces an evolution of her signature sound, with production from prolific pop producer Jack Antonoff. The title track is characteristically upbeat, with hints of Marvin Gaye Motown and Bee Gees-esque disco, while the whole album proves a feel-good soundtrack to enjoy this summer.

Things Take Time, Take Time by Courtney Barnett
Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett might be known for her delightfully deadpan delivery, but she’s feeling more confident than ever and it shows. Her most intimate record yet explores themes of love, renewal, healing and self-discovery.

Blue Banisters by Lana Del Rey
The queen of the melancholy banger is back with her eighth studio album. It’s full of soulful songs that delve even deeper into her life, psyche and experiences, all with Del Rey’s recognisable soaring vocals. 

Optimist by Finneas
He’s a huge part of his sister Billie Eilish’s success, and Finneas proves it with his debut solo album. Catchy yet experimental, Optimist shows off his impressive talent across a range of styles — from melodic ballads to electro hits. 

Sympathy for Life by Parquet Courts
American band Parquet Courts was inspired by the likes of Primal Scream and Pink Floyd with Sympathy for Life, combining their trademark guitar-led rock with a more danceable sound that you can’t help but want to throw yourself around to.

The Lockdown Sessions by Elton John
He’s a huge fan of collaboration, and Elton John celebrates this with a diverse album of catchy co-songs, featuring everyone from Dua Lipa to Lil Nas X, Stevie Nicks (and Wonder), Nicki Minaj, Gorillaz and more. 

I Don’t Live Here Anymore by The War on Drugs
The War on Drugs is a band adept at making anthemic, uplifting, classic-rock style albums; ideal for listening to while driving on the highway with the windows down. Their latest is no different — cue it up for your next road trip. 

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Kaia Gerber wears a lilac eye beauty look by Sam Visser.

7 brilliant beauty looks to inspire your New Year’s Eve makeup

The end of the year is fast approaching. Perhaps you’re organising an at-home celebration or you’re away somewhere special; you might be staying in Auckland to enjoy all it has to offer, or attending a loved one’s soirée. Either way, you’ve got your outfit chosen, the perfect shoes and accessories to match — but what about your makeup?

Find all the beauty inspiration you need below; you might be a fan of a softly glamourous winged liner, or a full-blown purple smoky eye could be more suited to your style. We suggest keeping the focus mostly on your eyes, so any mask-wearing can be carried out without worrying about smudged lipstick. Here’s to seeing in the new year in the most beautiful way possible.

Lovely Lilac
A sweep of colour on the eyelid is one of the easiest ways to make a makeup statement. Applied above by Dior Makeup Artist Sam Visser on model (and daughter of Cindy Crawford) Kaia Gerber, lilac is soft enough to not be garish, while still adding a pretty pop of colour. Curl your lashes, slick on plenty of black mascara, and finish with a brown-toned nude lip.

Left: Addison Rae by Nikki Makeup; Right: Jourdan Dunn.

She’s a Gem
Face crystals don’t have to be OTT or costume-like, as shown with this look by celebrity makeup artist Nikki Wolf — a.k.a @Nikki_Makeup. Start with an enhanced yet still relatively natural base; here, TikTok star Addison Rae has had her skin perfected with a rosy glow, while fluffy brows, a classic winged liner and fluttery lashes are beautiful with or without the added sparkles. A lip shade close to her natural colour completes the look, and the small crystals are bordered in a flattering way that echoes her eye shape. 

Bombshell Beauty
Jourdan Dunn is a supermodel, yes, but a look like this is almost universally flattering. An elongated liner is amped up with va-va-voom lashes, perfectly contoured skin, fluffy brows and a neutral lip. Why not also take a cue from her hair, and go for a sleek high ponytail? If you’re looking for a product that makes painting a fine liquid line a cinch, try Stila’s Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner with a microtip, perfect for detail-oriented face decoration.

Left: A look by Makeup by Mario; Right: Hung Vanngo’s purple smoky eye.

Green Dream
Green eye looks are having a moment. For an update on the classic black smoky eye, try something like this from Kim Kardashian’s favourite makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic — a.k.a Makeup by Mario. As he created it using his own makeup line, we can confirm that the palette is the Master Metallics eyeshadows in shade ‘4’, paired with Master Pigment Pro Pencil in ‘super black’. The pinky nude lip colour is the perfect pairing for this enchanting look.

Jewel-Toned
Purples look incredible with brown and green eyes — this look by prolific makeup creative Hung Vanngo goes all in with a diffused royal purple, another alternative to a black smoky eye. Rosy blush and glossy lips finish the look — we think this palette would be ideal for creating it.

Left: Makeup by Mario’s 90s glam; Right: Smouldering liner by Patrick Ta.

Nineties Glam 
Another from Makeup by Mario, a soft, 90s-inspired beauty look never goes amiss. Use a black powder shadow to apply the winged eyeliner for a slightly softer effect, plenty of highlighter for glowing skin, and a nude lipliner and gloss on the lips. 

Give ’em the Smoulder
For a sultry black liner look, take inspiration from this beauty beat by Patrick Ta. He has enhanced actress Camila Marrone’s eyes into an even more almond shape with black, tight-lined eyeliner on the waterline and around the eye. The trick is to keep the most intense part of the liner close to the eye, while making sure it’s not so harsh by diffusing slightly with a blending brush. A product like Sothys’ Universal Eye Pencil is great for this, as it’s waterproof so won’t budge. Peachy blush and a nude lip complete this stunning combination, along with shining waves in her hair.

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Louis Vuitton Flight Mode Collection.

Be the best dressed at the beach with these designer bucket hats and tote bags

Now’s the time to feel the wind in our hair and sand between our toes. Get set for beach season with a sun-shielding bucket hat and a designer hold-all tote bag that fits all your summer essentials. These accessories are given the chic treatment with woven textures, leather accents and eye-catching motifs for an unforgettable holiday look.

GG canvas wide brim hat from Gucci; Bucket hat from Prada.

Straw Bucket Hat from Dior; SINCE 1854 hat from Louis Vuitton.
Chloe Large Woody Tote from Workshop; Book Tote bag from Dior.
LOEWE Basket Bag from Faradays; Tote Bag from Gucci.

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Learn from the life lessons of others with the most memorable memoirs to read over summer

Summer is the time to truly relax and unwind. For the ultimate in cultural escapism, we recommend these moving memoirs. From the style and strife of the life of Christian Dior’s war-hero sister to the personal tales of beloved late chef Anthony Bourdain, these tomes will stay with you long after the last page.

Bourdain in Stories by Laurie Woolever
After the passing of Anthony Bourdain in 2018, those he influenced came together to celebrate his life of travelling nearly everywhere (and eating almost everything), while telling the stories of those he met along the way. His legacy has only grown since, and now his own story is told by his friends and colleagues. Bourdain’s long- time assistant and confidante interviewed nearly 100 people to put together this remarkably full and nuanced view of his life and work.

Miss Dior by Justine Picardie
The life and style of Christian Dior have been documented in tomes over time, but what about his original muse, his sister Catherine Dior? Tulle- light traces of her can be found in the House of Dior’s archives but Justine Picardie’s research for Miss Dior took her back to Occupied France, where Christian mastered the art of couture and Catherine dedicated herself to the French Resistance. After being captured by the Gestapo and eventually escaping a ‘death march’, she sought a quiet life tending to her roses, as her strength and femininity continued to inspire Christian, who created the Miss Dior scent in her honour.

Leonard Cohen: The Mystical Roots of Genius by Harry Freedman
Born into a prominent and scholarly Jewish family in Canada, Leonard Cohen aspired to become a poet, before turning to songwriting and eventually recording his own compositions, — the rest is melodic history. Harry Freedman, a leading author of cultural and religious history, uncovers the myriad spiritual dimensions behind the lyrical legend. From ‘Suzanne’ and ‘Hallelujah’, which drew on his learnings in Judaism and Christianity, to his later life immersed in Zen Buddhism, this song-by-song memoir offers insight into Cohen’s inspirations as well as his soul’s imaginations.

My Body by Emily Ratajkowski
In this refreshingly revelatory group of essays, model and actor Emily Ratajkowski shares her strikingly personal experiences while negotiating her own beauty, and the boundaries of power. After appearing in the infamous Blurred Lines music video in 2013, Ratajkowski shot to fame and purported a new take on feminism alongside bikini shots on her Instagram. Now, in this honest exploration of empowerment, Ratajkowski deftly discusses such complex topics and dares the reader to draw their own conclusions.

Dan Carter 1598 by Dan Carter
This coffee table tome by Dan Carter is for rugby fans young and old. A celebration of a world-record test career — named 1598 after the number of points Carter won as an All Black. Rendered in a beautiful large format hardback, and with a foreword written by Richie McCaw, the test-by-test tale is paced with magnificent imagery. Get in quick to score one of a 1000 limited-edition signed copies that come aptly complete with boot laces as a bookmark.

1000 Years of Joys and Sorrows by Ai Weiwei This is a century- long tale of China seen through artist Ai Weiwei’s own extraordinary life and the legacy of his father — the nation’s most celebrated, yet exiled, poet Ai Qing. A testament to the enduring power of art and the voice of freedom, it is a moving memoir.

Unbound by Tarana Burke
The founder and activist behind the Me Too movement, Tarana Burke, debuts a powerful memoir about how she came to say those two simple yet transformative words. While empowering those who had experienced sexual assault, she learnt to confront her own with empathy, a power she has now shared with the world.

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These bountiful statement jewellery pieces showcase nature in all its sparkling glory

Is that a sapphire flower carefully closing its moonstone petals for the evening, and do we spy Neptune’s green tourmaline ring emerging from a sea of diamonds? Let your imagination run a little wild with these exquisite creations that draw sparkling inspiration from the bounty that is found in the beauty of the natural world.

Left to right: Flower Petal earrings from Partridge Jewellers, Gold Drop Flower earrings from Sutcliffe, Fancy Cluster Set Drop earrings from Partridge Jewellers.
Clockwise: Emerald and Tsavorite Garnet ring from Sutcliffe, Pink Daisy ring from Partridge Jewellers, Green Tourmaline ring from Sutcliffe, Oval Rubelite ring from Sutcliffe, Moonstone Flower Cocktail ring from Partridge Jewellers, Emerald and Tsavorite ring from Sutcliffe.
Left to right: Rose Dior Bagatelle from Christian Dior, Anni Lu Seaweed Pearly necklace from Workshop.

Coveted

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Bridging sport and sensibility, Alfa Romeo’s 2021 Stelvio Quadrifoglio drives with power, pleasure and practicality

Few cars elicit the same passion in their fans as the Alfa Romeo. While simultaneously boasting exceptional performance, attention to detail and Italian design pedigree, there’s an instinctive, intangible quality to the automobiles from this storied maker that make the heart skip a beat — although, in the case of Alfa Romeo’s 2021 Stelvio Quadrifoglio, it’s likely to be the Ferrari engineered 505-horse V6 engine that’s responsible for that.

A modern performance SUV, this car melds the power of Alfa Romeo’s most powerful sports sedan (the Giulia Quadrifoglio) with a safe, comfortable and easy-driving vehicle — and has twice won the award for SUV of the year. So, those looking for practicality that also responds like a champion racehorse when you put your foot down — you won’t be disappointed. 

The 2021 Stelvio Quadrifoglio boasts a wide range of technological, connectivity, safety and aesthetic upgrades that have been key to its evolution since it was first launched in 2017.

The first thing onlookers will notice as you pull up are its signature unique, ergonomically sculptural exterior lines. Both eye-catching and sophisticated, the contemporary style of the Stelvio embraces a simplicity that belies its creative and technical complexity, all revolving around enveloping the driver in comfort. 

Inside, the centre console has a tactile new design that imparts plenty of visual impact, and more storage space for the flotsam and jetsam we all tend to carry with us in this life. Also new are the steering wheel and leather-trimmed gear stick. Operationally, the new touchscreen infotainment system features a slickly updated interface design and specific screens to communicate vehicle performance. 

Engine-wise, Alfa Romeo’s Stelvio Quadrifoglio is equipped with a 2.9 V6 Bi-Turbo powerhouse, capable of letting rip 375kW and up to 600nm torque. In other words, enough to set a record lap time for a production SUV at Germany’s legendary Nürburgring race track.

The Stelvio’s 8-speed automatic transition prioritises fluid movement, allowing it to be driven comfortably on all terrains whether you’re heading out for a summer trip and encounter some back-country roads or are simply pulling in at the supermarket. 

For those who are after a reliable commuting carryall, there’s no reason to be intimidated by the prospect of handling such power. One of the most comprehensive updates in the newest Stelvio model is what it calls its ‘Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems’ — or ADAs. These are designed to bridge the delicate balance between pure, unadulterated driving enjoyment, and increased support during heavier traffic or long trips.

Should you opt to switch it on, you’ll give the car control of certain operations like the accelerator, brakes and steering (while keeping your hands on the steering wheel, of course). From there, enjoy features like Lane Keeping Assist (which detects whether you’re veering off from your lane and actively intervenes to steer you back into your lane), Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist (keeping the car in the middle of the lane in heavy traffic) and more. No more jerking back-and-forth as you navigate already-irritating congestion, the Stelvio will enhance your experience without being intrusive. 

With its Stelvio Quadrifoglio, Alfa Romeo effortlessly balances innovation and heritage, power and control, to offer a comfortable, well-built SUV with plenty of nimble spark — making even just going from A to B a thoroughly enjoyable journey.

Design

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Salone del Mobile 2026: The design brands & ideas defining Milan
The Great

From ‘The Great’ to ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’, these are the new seasons of your favourite TV shows to stream

The Christmas rush leave you with no time to catch up on newly released seasons of your favourite shows? Now that a bit more downtime is on the agenda, we suggest adding these fresh seasonal releases to your cultural calendar.

The Great 
Re-writing the possibilities of a period drama series, The Great premiered to widespread acclaim last year with its “occasionally true story” of Catherine The Great. Far from fusty, Catherine (Elle Fanning) and her husband Emperor Peter (Nicholas Hoult) swig, swear and slight each other, as they charge towards a ​​coup d’état. Now, as Catherine tries in earnest to bring the Enlightenment to Russia, she is met by her mother (played by the inimitable Gillian Anderson), as well as unconventional power plays. With an artful irreverence, the first season’s costumes were inspired as much by the House of Dior as 1700s style, and we can expect to see more swoon-worthy yet witty costumes as the historic characters give each other a dressing down this season. With one executive producer proclaiming that Catherine’s life as the longest-serving female sovereign in Russia is enough creative fodder for at least six seasons of its 10-episode format, The Great could well become a TV show for the ages. Watch on Neon.

Curb Your Enthusiasm
After the year we’ve all had, we’re in dire need of some levity. Larry David more than delivers with season 11 of his addictively awkward show Curb Your Enthusiasm. The prickly protagonist remains comfortingly unchanged as he navigates life’s ups and downs in his own, distinctly Larry David-type of way. Watch on Neon.

This Way Up
At times both hilarious and heart-wrenching, the compulsive comedy-drama returns for a much-anticipated second season. Luminous Irish actors Aisling Bea and Sharon Horgan reprise their roles as sisters Áine and Shona. In season one, we met Áine after she got out of rehab for “a teeny little nervous breakdown” and followed as she attempted to rebuild her life. Now, things are going pretty well — but there are inevitable hiccups for both sisters, with every twist and turn portrayed with deftness, intimacy and characteristically sharp comedic timing. Watch on Neon.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJFVV2L8GKs

The Witcher
Nothing like a pulpy fantasy drama for a bit of light escapism. The Witcher returns, and with it, gruff monster-hunter for hire Geralt of Rivia (played by Henry Cavill) and his friends and enemies, as they grapple for existence in their tumultuous Continent. Based on the wildly popular books by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, and a trilogy of video games inspired by it, this adaption introduces new complex characters as the epic continues. Watch on Netflix.

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Just in time for the big day, here’s the only recipe you need for a cinnamon-spiced pecan pie

Although sweet pies during the festive season aren’t as ingrained in Kiwiana culture as in the United States, we can all still come to a mutual agreement that pies are absolutely delicious. With Christmas knocking on our door, why not consider a pie as part of your dessert spread? Without further ado, here’s our recipe for a buttery and decadent pecan pie that can sit pretty alongside the pavlova this holiday season.

Cinnamon-Spiced Pecan Pie Recipe
(Feeds 10-12 people)

Ingredients:

For the crust
2 cups of plain flour
Pinch of salt
170 grams of butter — cut into cubes and chilled
2 egg yolks
4 Tbsp of ice-cold water

For the filling
2 cups of pecan nuts
¾ cup of dark corn syrup
3 eggs
1 cup of white sugar
¼ cup of brown sugar
1 tsp of vanilla extract
2 tbsp of unsalted butter, melted
2 tsp of ground cinnamon
1 tsp of salt

Equipment
Rolling pin
22cm pie dish
Bag of rice, pie weights or beans

Method:

Crust
1. In a large bowl, sift the flour and salt together.
2. With your fingertips, pinch the cubes of butter into the flour and break up the butter until there are no more big lumps.
3. In a separate small bowl, mix the egg yolks and ice water until combined and add ¾ of it to the dry mixture. This helps avoid your pastry from becoming too wet, which is irreversible and you would need to start all over again.
4. Be quick when mixing the eggs and flour together with a fork until the dough just starts to come together. Take your hands and if the dough holds together in a ball when squeezed in your palms, it’s ready to knead. If the dough doesn’t come together, add the rest of the egg mixture.
5. The dough should be quite dry and crumbly as everything hasn’t been fully mixed together yet. Once it’s transferred on a flat and clean surface, bring together in a disc and wrap the dough disc in cling wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to four days.

Assembly and filling
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan-baked.
2. Dust flour onto a clean surface and unwrap the disc of chilled dough. Flour the top of the dough and roll it out, turning every few rolls. Don’t be discouraged by any cracks that form and just simply smush them back together. Roll out the dough to a circle about 3mm thick and place into a 22cm pie dish. Trim any excess dough around the sides, then crimp the edges for that traditional pie crust aesthetic.
3. Place a piece of baking paper in the centre of the pie crust and add the pie weights or some uncooked rice. Bake it in the oven for 15 minutes and take it out when golden brown.
4. While your crust is baking, in a large bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of your pecans, corn syrup, eggs, white sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, melted butter, cinnamon and salt.
5. Carefully lift the parchment with the pie weights from the par-baked pie crust, then pour in the filling. Place the remaining ½ cup of pecans in concentric circles on top.
6. Put the pie back into the oven for 20 minutes, then cover with a piece of aluminium foil and bake for another 40 minutes. Unlike other pies, this one is ready when it’s set in the oven, so if it’s still jiggly on top, it’s not ready.
7. Allow the pie to cool completely, slice and serve the pie chilled or at room temperature. Add a scoop of ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent (which, we are).

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Chloé Woody logo-print canvas slides from Workshop (workshop.co.nz).

Slide into summer with the stylish slip-on shoes of the season

We’re looking forward to taking all things easy this summer, and the signature shoe of the season allows us both to kick back and stay on trend. Rendered in a variety of resolutely fashionable, utterly practical designs — from Gucci’s Original GG slide sandals with a perfected platform to Christian Dior’s gold thread embroidered slides — there is no stopping where these shoes will take you.

Clockwise: Original GG slide sandal from Gucci, Pool Pillow Comfort mule from Louis Vuitton, Gia Borghini coffee brown puffy thongs from Muse Boutique, Proenza Schouler slides from Muse Boutique.
Clockwise: Sunset Flat Comfort mule from Louis Vuitton, DWAY Slides from Christian Dior, Chloé Woody Shearling slide from Workshop, Acne Studios Face Pool slides from Workshop.

Coveted

Van Cleef & Arpels adds to the Perlée collection with elegant three-row rings
Bvlgari revisits one of its boldest signatures with Gold & Steel
All tied up: The bow-detail handbag trend taking over this season
Walls in Resene Double Spanish White with borders in Resene Eighth Spanish White. Floor in Resene Quarter Spanish White, large plant pot in Resene Double Spanish White, art deco table in Resene Clay Creek. Chair from David Shaw and Birds and bowl from Good Form.

How to create an interior masterpiece by framing your walls with carefully cordoned-off colour

A custom-painted wall takes an interior to the next level. For this, the framed wall trend is a creative flourish still in line with a sophisticated scene, presenting just the right amount of interest and intention for a considered conversation piece. In this room, Resene Eighth Spanish White has been layered in spacious borders to frame the focal colour block, Resene Double Spanish White.

The latter, complex creamy white adds warmth, as well as a fixture of flexibility, to the linear design. Both colours have been prepped with two coats of Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen — tinted first to each hue. Unconventional artwork then adds a final, curvaceous flare to the wall space, while the interior piece of the moment, a bouclé armchair, fits right in.

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
9000 collection by Tito Agnoli for Arflex. Brand available locally at Studio Italia.
Cosmic table by Raw Edges for Louis Vuitton.
Marteen sofa by Vincent Van Duysen for Molteni&C. Brand available locally at Dawson & Co.
Dudet small armchairs and Sengu table by Patricia Urquiola for Cassina. Brand available locally at Matisse.
P47 P M TS-CU chair by Franco Poli for MIDJ. Brand available locally at Sarsfield Brooke.
Flowing Fragments furniture collection by Richard Yasmine.
Brasilia sofa by Marcio Kogan for Minotti. Brand available locally at ECC.

The enduring style of Milan’s 2021 Supersalone — Here are the most exciting furniture and design pieces to note

In theory, it should be a designer’s dream come true to have more time than usual to perfect new creations, before they are presented to the world. In the case of the Salone del Mobile, the pandemic-prompted cancellation of last year’s event, and the delay of the 2021 showcase, must have been closer to a nightmare.

Nevertheless, in a true, resourceful style, both the Salone’s organisers and the participating brands used the opportunity to demonstrate the role of reinvention and innovation in their oeuvre. 

When the event was able to take place from the 5th until the 10th of September, it was with creativity, sustainability, joyfulness and prestige at the fore — and a brand new title. Dubbed ‘Supersalone’ this year, the seminal showcase was curated by Architect and President of the Triennale Milano, Stefano Boeri.

Milan’s exuberance remained, and the city came alive with celebrations of design throughout, revelling in the groundbreaking nature of the resulting furniture, décor and concept collections. 

Superior seating pulled up its usual place in the upper echelons of instant classics, this year further highlighted with a dedicated exhibition (Take Your Seat – Solitude and Conviviality of the Chair) celebrating the versatility and essential nature of one of design’s favourite objects. Additionally, Arflex unveiled its organic, curved 9000 sofa — designed by Tito Agnoli to allow multiple configurations.

Marco Lavit’s Lemni armchair for Living Divani arrived almost like an abstract line drawing in space, while Patricia Urquiola’s milky new iteration of the Dudet small armchair for Cassina creates a 70s-inspired tableau with the rounded Sengu table.

Those wishing for an airy yet cocooning accompaniment for their dining suite need to look no further than the P47 P M TS-CU chair by Franco Poli for MIDJ, while Vincent Van Duysen’s Marteen sofa is a harmonious yet customisable addition to Molteni&C’s repertoire. 

Left: Test-One table lamps by Ugo Cacciatori for Henge. Brand available locally at ECC. Right: Fragments of Infinity by Giopato & Coombes. Brand available locally at ECC.
Left: The iconic Dior Medallion chair reimagined by India Mahdavi. Right: The iconic Dior Medallion chair reimagined by Ma Yansong.
Left: Lemni armchair by Marco Lavit for Living Divani. Brand available locally at Studio Italia. Right: Noonu sofa by Antonio Citterio for B&B Italia. Brand available locally at Matisse.

In the lighting realm, Fragments of Infinity by Giopato & Coombes is a boundary-pushing exploration of harmony and geometry. Henge’s Test-One table lamps bridge the natural and the manufactured with sand-polished ice onyx that turns from “sculptural opalescence to bright brutalism” when illuminated. 

Joining the Supersalone’s ranks were several luxury fashion houses, with interior pieces that more than held their own among the design luminaries — in fact, collaborations were abundant with Dior asking several renowned artists and designers to reimagine the refined Louis XVI style of its iconic Medallion chair.

Rick Owens also joined forces with emerging Italian designers who created new one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by his clothing for a Galerie Philia exhibit. 

Louis Vuitton commissioned several designer pieces for pre-order from its Objets Nomades collection, centring around its artisanal leather. The Campana Brothers’ Aguacate shield, in particular, is supremely eye-catching — with nine colourful panels crafted from saturated leather strips to mimic the interior of an avocado. 

The limited-edition Royal bar cabinet from Armani Casa proves that sophistication and conviviality are utterly charming design allies.

These two qualities were seen throughout the 2021 Supersalone, demonstrating the boundless energy and ingenious concepts that result when creativity is given plenty of time to percolate. 

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
Oyster & Chop's 'Taste of the Ocean' seafood platter

From killer cocktails to stunning seafood, these are our favourite places to eat and drink in Viaduct Harbour

Viaduct Harbour has long been a favourite location of Aucklanders. Its idyllic waterfront views are invitation enough to wine and dine the day away. The only struggle you may face is deciding on a place to spend a long lunch that could potentially stretch into the dinner hours. As such, we have curated a list of our favourite bars and restaurants in Viaduct Harbour, from rooftop bars to all-day eateries, to add to your list for languid summer dining.

Soul Bar & Bistro

Soul Bar & Bistro
With a menu so delicious you’ll want to sample every dish, it only makes sense to extend your lunch through to dinner to make the most out of your sitting at Soul Bar & Bistro. Home of some of the city’s best salt and pepper squid (and don’t forget the mac and cheese), Soul is the perfect place to sink an exceptional cocktail (or two, we’re not here to judge) and soak up the all-weather waterfront atmosphere.

Grand Harbour Chinese & Seafood Restaurant
If you have a craving for dumplings, look no further than Grand Harbour Chinese & Seafood Restaurant. This place is an institution and has been serving yum cha to hungry Aucklanders for almost 20 years. Renowned for the freshness of its dim sum, its laden trolleys are emptied after just a single lap of the expansive dining room, ensuring dishes are always at an optimal level of tastiness. Pair with a frosty beer and you’re in for a brunch like no other.

VYC Trattoria Moderna

VYC Trattoria Moderna
Formerly known as Viaduct Yacht Club, VYC Trattoria Moderna‘s new offering is serving laidback vibes and plenty of delicious fresh pasta for large group bookings and events. The Tuscan-inspired menu, punchy cocktails of the week and prime position are invitation enough to host a special occasion here.

Boracay Garden Restaurant
Centred on bold, distinct Filipino flavours, Boracay Garden Restaurant’s dishes are unique to anything we have tasted before. The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with a distinct lunch and dinner menu. The nighttime offering is designed to be shared family-style, so be sure to gather the troops and book a table.

Hello Beasty’s vegetarian dumplings

Hello Beasty
Drawing inspiration from Korean, Japanese and Chinese cuisine, Hello Beasty is the place to go when you want to take your tastebuds on a journey. The light, airy interior with an open kitchen is an inviting place to post up for lunch or dinner, with favourites such as potstickers and hibachi-seared lamb cutlets sitting alongside a dedicated vegetarian and gluten-free menu. Don’t miss the KFC (aka Korean fried cauliflower).

Dr. Rudi’s Rooftop Brewing Co.
This rooftop brewery, bowling alley and restaurant has all the ingredients for a fun-filled day. Although the chefs at Rudi’s serve up classic breakfast meals on the weekdays, this rooftop eatery and bar shines its brightest on the weekend. With plenty of beers on tap, even more stocked in the fridge and an elaborate cocktail menu, sitting at Dr. Rudi’s never results in a ‘quick drink’. The food offerings are just as grand, with pizzas by the foot, jalapeno and brie poppers and beer-battered McClure’s pickles to boot.

Parasol & Swing

The Parasol & Swing Company
If a rooftop bar is what you’re after, Parasol & Swing is here to deliver. Offering a range of interesting cocktails, including a banana miso sour (think miso banana, Tennessee whiskey and vanilla pisco) alongside bottled cocktails and natural wine, it’s the perfect place to settle in for a drink with a difference. No slouches in the food department, Parasol & Swing boasts a deliciously refined menu of classic bar fare, with ceviche, panko-crumbed macaroni and fried chicken all on offer.

Brolly
While it may have started off as a pop-up last summer, Brolly (downstairs from Parasol & Swing and operated by the same owners) has proved so popular it’s here to stay. Showcasing locally sourced food, organic and natural wines, craft beers, and bespoke creative cocktails, the cosy, 20-seat spot is a must-try. The Parasol and Brolly team have also just opened a new bar in Ponsonby, should you find yourself up that way, called The Broken Lantern. It’s definitely worth a visit.

Frida Cocina Mexicana and Tequila Bar
When nothing but a strong margarita will do, trot along to Frida Cocina Mexicana and Tequila Bar. The inventive drinks menu lists tequila, mezcal and a lip-smacking selection of margaritas, available in three different sizes depending on your thirst level. From traditional to contemporary, flavours range from ‘classic’ to mango, passionfruit and jalapeno. If you’re feeling peckish, there’s an excellent selection of tacos and sharing plates spanning guacamole, ceviche and mole poblano pork ribs.

Saint Alice’s oyster McMuffin

Saint Alice
From the moment we set eyes on this all-day rooftop eatery, it immediately became a strong favourite. No matter what day of the week or time of the day, Saint Alice always makes for an enjoyable experience. Expect to find fresh seafood, including oysters and kingfish sashimi, as well as contemporary delights ranging from pork belly to pizza, and refreshing sangria jugs to wash it all down.

Oyster & Chop
Oyster bar and steakhouse Oyster & Chop are experts when it comes to surf and turf, serving up classic bistro fare seven days a week. As to be expected, seafood and oysters are a speciality, with the impressive ‘Taste of the Ocean’ seafood platter almost impossible to resist. If turf is more your flavour, big hitters like the Savannah eye fillet or Wakanui scotch are sure to satisfy any carnivorous craving.

Gastronomy

Win the ultimate experience as Church Road brings its Cellar Door to Somm Wine Bar & Bistro
This local favourite just got a beautifully considered refresh
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