It’s been a long hard road to the promised holiday lands this year. From Burberry bucket hats to Balenciaga beach towels, enhance your sense of a great escape by trying on these aesthetic accessories that are sure to deliver the laidback luxe you deserve.
Left to right: Bather Bouquet Marble swim shorts from Workshop, BB Dark Navy Beach towel from Balenciaga.
1. The Smart Swimmers Swim shorts are an undisputed holiday uniform, whether you take the plunge or not. The Canadian-based label Bather has configured the perfect pair, with a fine four-way stretch mesh lining, made to move with you.
2. The Bold Beach Towel Whether on the boat or the beach, create an island of comfort wherever you lie with a particularly plush beach towel. Balenciaga’s towelling, in cushioning sponge cotton, is both vivid and sophisticated.
Left to right: Monogram Print Nylon bucket hat from Burberry, Buttercup Yellow bucket hat from Moncler, Acne Studios Face Twill bucket hat from Workshop, Re-Nylon backpack from Prada.
3. The Bucket Hat-Trick Worn by street stylers the world over, the bucket hat is no longer just the domain of Dad’s head during fishing trips. Wear it anywhere, anytime for some serious street cred.
4. The Designer Beach Bag Play it close to your chest with a hands-free beach bag. Prada’s sunshine yellow regenerated nylon backpack is made from plastic trash found floating in the ocean.
Left to right: Graphic T-Shirt from Moncler, Embroidered Mockneck Tee from Louis Vuitton, Moscot Fliptosh sunglasses from Parker & Co.
5. The Tactful T-Shirt While there is always a place in your wardrobe for a plain white tee, wearing your sartorial allegiances on your chest delivers an opportunity to exude a fashionable flex.
6. The Sleek Shades Limited layers make changing your look a challenge in the heat, with the onus often falling on accessories. Enter flip sunglasses, which can be worn with shades secured to the lenses, or flicked up with finesse.
French heritage luxury house Louis Vuitton is known for its enduring link to extraordinary voyages. Its latest destination sees its iconic pieces within reach of an ever-growing base of style-savvy New Zealanders, with the opening of its brand new boutique in Westfield Newmarket.
Located on level 1 of the Westfield Living Centre, Louis Vuitton joins the stellar line-up of luxury brands that include Balenciaga and Burberry; Moncler and Mulberry; Saint Laurent, Partridge Jewellers and Alexander McQueen.
Before one even steps foot inside the doors, the House’s emblematic symbols are brought to the fore, with the exterior swathed in an eye-catching metal mesh that was inspired by Louis Vuitton’s iconic Damier pattern.
Inside, the boutique’s design builds on the blueprint first established by American Architect Peter Marino, who has worked with the brand on their stores since 1994. Locally-made furniture and artworks from local artists like Max Gimblett and James Cousins are discerningly curated to complement the signature styles stocked within.
There is a comprehensive selection available to discover in-store, from women’s and men’s ready-to-wear to leather goods, shoes to fragrances, watches, jewellery and accessories. For those requiring a more bespoke experience, personalised shopping can be arranged in the exclusive, private salon.
While we barely needed another excuse to plan a shopping trip, Louis Vuitton’s Westfield Newmarket boutique has us readying our wishlists with much enthusiasm.
The iconic Partridge Jewellers is putting another jewel in its crown, opening an elegant new boutique built on its shining 150-year history. Known for carrying many of the world’s most sought-after names in watches and jewellery — including its own exquisitely crafted jewellery line — the Partridge boutique will mark a new era for the family business’ lineage.
Located in Westfield Newmarket, next to the likes of Balenciaga, Saint Laurent and Louis Vuitton, the indulgent backdrop is also setting a new benchmark for prestigious New Zealand brands.
“As the only New Zealand-owned brand located within this area of the Westfield development, we can’t wait to deliver a stunning line-up of watches and jewellery among some of the world’s most renowned names in luxury retail,” says Grant Partridge.
The new boutique is brought to life by leading interior design firm Izzard Design, which has recently completed fit-outs of Partridge Jewellers’ Queen Street and Lambton Quay stores as well. A melding of the contemporary and the traditional, much like what is found in the gleaming cabinets, the ambient space has a rich palette of natural veined marble, velvets and aged brass.
“We wanted to invite people into a space that had a sense of hospitality, slow down the pace of retail,” explains Senior Designer Hannah Davies. “You can sit at the bar and really enjoy the experience of buying a beautiful piece of jewellery or a watch.”
The expansive new space welcomes many new brands to Partridge’s Newmarket stable, including De Beers Forevermark’s inscribed diamond designs, Omega’s Swiss luxury timepieces and Cartier’s unique collections of fine jewellery, alongside the esteemed Panerai, Jaeger-LeCoultre, IWC, Breitling and Chopard.
For the first time in New Zealand, Piaget will be available to view at the store. Since 1874, Piaget has combined a jeweller’s refinement with its watchmaking nous to craft luxury treasures. Given Partridge Jewellers has been in operation since 1864, the new relationship between these two heritage brands is sure to make a lasting impact.
Another gem for Partridge, and New Zealand, is the celebrity-adored vintage and contemporary jewels from Fred Leighton — coming soon. Known to transcend time and place, the coveted collection is a reflection of Partridge’s multi-faceted and eternal sparkle.
The famed ancient saying “in vino veritas” means “in wine there is truth”. While some interpretations infer that whoever speaks such truths has had a few glasses of the good stuff themselves, it was with clear-headed clarity that the judges of Winestate’s 2021 Wine of the Year Awards crowned Hawke’s Bay winery Church Road with a slew of its most prestigious accolades.
Among the impressive honours, Chief Winemaker Chris Scott won New Zealand Winemaker of the Year for an unprecedented fourth time, and Church Road’s Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2019 won both Wine of the Year and Chardonnay of the Year.
Produced from the very best vineyards across Hawke’s Bay and, for the first time in 2021 Pinot Noir from Central Otago, Church Road Grand Reserve wines represent the excellence of New Zealand wine, reflecting the exceptional terroir, considered viticulture and masterful winemaking.
From left: Chief Winemaker Chris Scott; Church Road Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2019.
After winning Winemaker of the Year in 2013, 2016, 2020 and 2021, Scott is understandably delighted. “Winning Winemaker of the Year is a real privilege, and to win it four times is just incredible. It’s such a great testament to the efforts of the entire team here,” he says. “They’re a great bunch of incredibly talented people and it is through everyone’s dedication and skill that we achieve the results that we do.”
It’s also testament to Hawke’s Bay’s ability to produce wines that are among the finest in the world, he says, and doing their bit to help demonstrate that has made the team incredibly proud.
The Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2019, in particular, has won several local and international accolades for its full-bodied yet finely textured character, great length and complexity. Flavourful and multidimensional, it has a core of ripe stonefruit and fragrant citrus, overlaid with aromas of roasted nuts, toasted brioche, a subtle creaminess and a hint of smoke.
It wasn’t just the lighter grapes that got their due in this year’s awards; 2021 Merlot of the Year went to Church Road’s 2019 Grand Reserve Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon.
So, should you be looking for a sublime sip to see you through summer, you can be sure that the aforementioned from Church Road come very highly recommended indeed.
We’re mightily impressed by the calibre of independent bakeries that have cropped up of late, and judging by their sell-out sweets, you are too. While there are downsides to social media and the deep dark abyss that is the internet, the fact that we can order some of the most incredible cake-centric creations to our door with a couple of taps of a screen is one delicious pro, we think.
These are the local baking businesses doing their darndest to bring us all the sweet treats we could ever need, with nary a brick-and-mortar store in sight.
The Lophie Project While these sweet sensations are 100 percent plant-based, we can’t quite convince ourselves they’re practically a health food, thanks to their delightful decadence. But, life is all about balance, and we’ll gladly tip the scales in favour of The Lophie Project. Specialising in vegan cakes, pastries and doughnuts, TLP’s orders open at 3pm every Monday for Friday delivery, or pick up from Northcote. With doughnut favours like Poached Rhubarb Pistachio Cream and Crunchy PB & Jelly, plus fluffy brioche cinnarings and more, anyone will enjoy these goodies no matter your dietary considerations. Follow on Instagram here and order here.
Ohmydough! No, we hadn’t heard of cookie pies before we came across Ohmydough! — but we sure are glad we’ve now been introduced to the concept. A generous 23cm in diameter, these delightful creations are the brainchild of West Auckland-based baker Consie, and can be ordered via DM. New flavours are announced every Monday, with custom orders also available. Expect marvellous morsels rendered in the likes of Oreo crumb cookie dough and Caramilk funfetti; triple chocolate peanut butter and Kinder cookie dough. There’s contactless delivery available to some areas of Auckland, or contactless pick-up from the address provided after ordering. Follow on Instagram and order here.
Bunanza Once you get us started on Bunanza, we won’t stop. Having met and marvelled over Krista On Hing’s sensational cinnamon buns recently, we can attest to their moist texture and silky toppings of orange cream cheese, vanilla, and browned butter with salted almond. These buns make for a beautiful gift — whether for yourself or another lucky recipient — and are incredibly in-demand so make sure you keep a close eye for when On Hing releases new ordering windows. Follow on Instagram here and order here.
Got Baked Good Decadence is the name of the game at North Shore-based micro-bakery Got Baked Good. Specialising in loaded cinnamon rolls, flavours like Biscoff and Kitkat; Blueberry; and Nutella S’mores will tantalise even the most hardened sugar snob. Weekly pre-orders open every Monday from 5pm, and while the Christmas collection is unfortunately sold out, these guys are ones to keep on your radar for other ordering windows in December or the new year. Follow on Instagram here and order here.
Hello Bliss Cheesecakes There are cheesecakes, and then there are Hello Bliss Cheesecakes. Made to order in West Auckland, Hello Bliss’ heavenly treats are so popular that orders are all sold out for 2021… but a little bit of delayed gratification does wonders for self-congratulatory enjoyment later on. Flavours include Espresso Butterscotch; Blueberry & White Chocolate Crumble; Snickers, and many more, and while orders are already open for January, judging by the fanbase you’re better get in quick. Find all ordering details on the Hello Bliss Instagram here.
Sugar and Tempt Having run a series of successful pop-ups, Tiffany Sua’s cult-followed cookies have solidified their spot as some of the most in-demand sweets in the city. Sugar and Tempt’s pop-ups are taking a break (for now), but we suggest reading all about them on our website here and following along on their social media for the first word on when you can get your hands on some crunchy, soft and gooey goodness.
From Tom Ford’s second-part designer staple to a Gio Ponti art book that comes with its own collector’s stand, these coffee table tomes deserve pride of place in the most luxurious area of your home. Each book makes a beautiful gift, whether for yourself or someone else’s collection.
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc: A Timeless Legend on the French Rivieraby Alexandra Campbell With 150 years of storied history to its name, Hotel du Cap-Eden- Roc is ripe for celebration, and the inherent beauty of its grounds and surroundings provide plenty of fodder for Campbell’s stunning photo book. See the hotel through the eyes of some of its most legendary guests, including Karl Lagerfeld (who held his Chanel 2011/2012 Cruise show at the Roc), Slim Aarons, John Lennon and Yoko Ono, and more.
Tom Ford 002by Tom Ford His first book detailing his time at the helm of Gucci is a staple of style-savvy homes the world over. Now, Tom Ford is picking up where he left off, covering the launch of his own billion-dollar luxury brand. Featuring incredible imagery of Ford’s designs, fashion editorials and his signature boundary-pushing advertising campaigns, Tom Ford 002 delves even deeper into the designer’s world.
Eight Homes: Clements Designby Kathleen and Tommy Clements The first book from lauded Los Angeles-based interior design firm Clements Design invites readers to step inside some of the residences that are sublime examples of its signature aesthetic — ultra-sophisticated and incredibly elegant with a pared-back Californian ease that is utterly bewitching with every turn of the page.
Yachts: The Impossible Collectionby Miriam Cain You’ll swear you can feel the salt on your skin and the wind in your hair while turning this tome’s pages. A celebration and exploration of the world’s most luxurious, technologically advanced and, increasingly, sustainable yachts, this seafaring instalment of Assouline’s Impossible Collection spans the last 170 years to let readers have a peek inside awe-inspiring vessel that have transformed the world of yachting. Despite there being over 3000 large yachts in the global fleet (plus many famed vessels that are no longer with us), Cain has managed to home in on a well-curated selection of groundbreaking boats, from the 1851 ship for which the America’s Cup was named, to modern high-tech mega yachts and many more. Hand- bound using traditional techniques, with colour plates hand-tipped on art-quality paper, this is a luxurious volume worthy of its decadent subject matter.
Gio Ponti. Art Edition Prolific 20th-century Italian architect Giovanni ‘Gio’ Ponti released a staggering body of work over his six-decade career. His viewpoint was holistic, extending beyond designing buildings (of which he created over 100) to interiors, exhibitions, furniture, art, editorial publishing, textiles and more. His hugely influential oeuvre has been beautifully captured in this luxurious art book, assembled with the help of the Gio Ponti Archives. What’s more, the numbered Art Edition (one of 1000) comes with an actual coffee table. The Planchart coffee table is an exclusive, square format reproduction of the famous Arlecchino design, produced for Taschen by Molteni&C. A collector’s item indeed.
Vivienne Westwood Catwalk: The Complete Collections by Alexander Fury & Vivienne Westwood One of fashion’s true iconoclasts, Vivienne Westwood has challenged the norm since her eponymous brand’s very first outing with ‘Pirate’ in 1981. This eye-catching book, the seventh in the lauded Catwalk series, chronicles every one of Westwood’s collections from her start to today.
Frida Kahlo. The Complete Paintingsby Luis-Martin Lozano Artist Frida Kahlo may not have been history’s most prolific painter, but this has not stopped her name and face from being everlastingly venerated. This stunning new Taschen-published art book documents every single one of Kahlo’s known works — of which there are 152 — including lesser- known paintings that haven’t been exhibited in over 80 years.
Burn those trackpants (or, at least, store them at the back of your closet) — we’re planning on seeing out this year with a bang and a banging ensemble. The outfit recipe of a dress, showstopping shoes and sparkling accessories is simple to put together yet highly impactful, whether you go for a full-length frock or a playful mini. Either way, you’ll be making an unforgettable impression in all the right ways.
Left to right: Alexandre Vauthier Strassed Embellished gown from Faradays, Christopher Esber Yrjo dress from Muse Boutique, Rixo Mya dress from Muse Boutique.
Left to right: Metallic Paillette-embellished Mesh dress from Burberry, Isabel Marant Verikio Silk dress from Workshop, Alaia Edition 2004 The Goddess dress from Faradays.
Clockwise: Giuseppe Zanotti Pris Wedges from Faradays, Saeda 100 Black Suede pumps from Jimmy Choo, Sling chain pumps in suede from Saint Laurent, Alexandre Vauthier Tiffany sandals from Faradays.
Clockwise: Cleo satin bag with appliqués from Prada, Tiffany Eternity 32mm Round watch from Tiffany & Co., Cascade earrings from Saint Laurent, White and pink diamond ring from Sutcliffe, Black and white diamond ring from Sutcliffe, Night time gazing bracelet from Partridge Jewellers.
From the team behind Point Chevalier neighbourhood spot Ambler, and polished Wynyard Quarter bistro Wander, Atelier is the latest new opening to join Karangahape Road’s sought-after stable of eateries — and it’s more than holding its own with an offering of French-inspired small plates and extensive drinks list.
While Ambler is brimming with laidback charm and Wander is a bright and breezy all-day eatery, Atelier is slightly more grown-up but no less welcoming. Located next to Artspace, the generously-sized restaurant has 100 seats indoors and 20 out the front, making for a versatile space that can play host to many occasions and gathering sizes.
Owners and executive chefs Kélian Monteil and Alexis Petit (both hailing originally from France) have created an enticing menu that focuses on French techniques and dishes while celebrating New Zealand’s excellent produce. Working seasonally with independent suppliers is incredibly important to the duo, and they specifically seek out New Zealand-based makers offering French products.
Purple kumara crisps, hazelnut hummus.
Food-wise, there’s plenty of options for just a light snack with a drink, or a full spread for a feast. On the light end, find Te Matuku oysters; hummus topped with roasted hazelnuts and delicate purple kumara crisps; smoked olives, and various charcuterie board sizes. There’s a special Daily Bread sourdough loaf made exclusively for Atelier, a mixture of rye, wholemeal and baker’s flour, served with whipped kina butter.
Each dish is a joy to look at and to eat — from smoked trevally rillettes to black pudding eclairs with scallops and fennel; smoked stracciatella with slow-roasted tomatoes and eggplant, and braised beef cheek pavé that is so tender you could eat it with a spoon.
Desserts are exquisitely rendered — the lemon and Speculoos tart makes use of the beloved Biscoff-type Belgian biscuit as a base and is topped with perfectly zesty lemon curd and soft meringue, while the mille-feuille with salted butter caramel and chantilly is an absolute show-stopper.
Speculoos tart au citron.
In terms of drinks, where Atelier sets itself apart is that it offers every single one of its wines by the glass as well as by the bottle, no matter how top tier it might be. The team uses the Coravin preservation system to make this viable — using a hollow needle, the technology inserts an inert gas into the wine bottle to prevent oxidisation without having to remove the cork.
The selection is extensive and includes a wide range from organic and natural drops, to full-bodied classic wines, from both local and international makers including Australia and France. There’s also a selection of great cocktails and the team has taken advantage of the ever-innovative selection of non-alcoholic beverages to offer two zero alcohol wines, a beer, mocktails and kombucha.
The Atelier team always knew they wanted to open on Karangahape Road, and were delighted to have signed onto this spot in the old post office back in 2020. While the pandemic has made the road to opening a long and winding one, now they’re finally here we suggest you go and give them a warm welcome.
Opening hours: Wednesday & Thursday: 4pm — late Friday, Saturday & Sunday: 3pm — late Closed Monday & Tuesday.
Since launching as a food stall late last year, Roti Bros has had a following of enthusiastic pie-lovers hot on its heels. Well known for its signature hybrid pastries that apply the concept of a classic Kiwi pie to soft, buttery roti paratha and South Asian and Indian flavours, Roti Bros is the brainchild of Ollie Morrison and Logan Stevens who came up with the idea during Auckland’s first lockdown.
Left to right: Roti Bros Production Manager Varun Singhal, Founders Logan Stevens and Ollie Morrison.
Fast forward to now, and the pie purveyors are ticking off a major milestone with the opening of their very first standalone outpost today — a cosy, golden-lit store in downtown Auckland’s Commercial Bay. Operating initially as a six-month pop-up, it’s a full-circle moment for them as their journey originally started in the same part of town.
“Our very first stall was at the Britomart Markets in September 2020, so to be opening at Commercial Bay just over 12 months later is a great achievement for us, it feels quite surreal seeing it come to life,” said Morrison and Stevens. “We want to make the Roti Pie a common delicacy, and establishing a brick-and mortar-foothold in the city is a big step in the right direction.”
The core operational team has also grown to include Production Manager Varun Singhal, plus a few friendly faces who will be welcoming customers at the shop day-to-day.
Upon the opening of Roti Bros IRL, the offering encompasses hot, ready-to-eat pies in the Bros’ three popular, core flavours — Butter Chicken, Thai Beef and the vegan Vege Panang — plus two delicious limited-edition flavours: Chicken Madras and Red Thai Duck Curry. There are also frozen pies available to take away, and Roti Bros’ online store is still operating as usual for those outside the city.
“The vision for eateries at Commercial Bay is about having unique, delicious food that you wouldn’t typically find at other malls, said the Roti Bros duo. “Being alongside the likes of Gochu, Fatimas, Ahi, Hawker & Roll (and the rest of the incredible list of food outlets) seriously spins our wheels.”
They’re also excited to be providing nearby offices with Roti Pies to enjoy for lunch — we can certainly attest to the fact that they make for a delicious midday treat any day of the week.
So, whether you’re stopping by for a hot pie or savvily stashing a frozen selection for later, we suggest you make a visit to Roti Bros the hottest ticket on your agenda.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11am — 6pm
Roti Bros
Commercial Bay
Little Queen St lane (next to Spark)
7 Queen Street,
Auckland CBD
Now that we can mix and mingle once more, we’re after a refreshing pour at home. As luck would have it, Glenmorangie has released a new single malt Scotch whisky, right on time for summer socialising. Crafted in collaboration with top bartenders, the X by Glenmorangie spirit is sweeter and richer to taste — making it perfect for all tall, effortless sips.
Even if you haven’t tried single malt whisky before, this remixed version pairs wonderfully with all manner of mixers so you can open a new world of possibility with each gulp. To inspire new serves, Glenmorangie has released a series of refreshingly simple and complementary recipes — each require two to four ingredients, and are served over crushed ice in the style of a swizzle with no need for specialist equipment.
The curious combinations include takes on familiar classics, including a Glenmorangie X Tonic and a Glenmorangie X Cola, as well as experimental drinks for many and varied occasions. The Glenmorangie X Brunch is a bright, citrusy pairing, with agave syrup and grapefruit and orange juice, for long, leisurely weekends with family and friends. Meanwhile, the Glenmorangie X Date Night is a floral, fragrant serve, with lemon juice, elderflower cordial and a hint of sparkling soda, for a special evening.
While many of Glenmorangie’s whiskies taste exceptional when mixed, this is its first whisky to be specifically made for this intended purpose. Glenmorangie’s Highland whisky creators, known as the Distillers of Tain, are endlessly imaginative — honing and honouring their craft for more than 175 years.
Inspired by the flavour possibilities the whisky can bring when mixed, X by Glenmorangie is a spectacle of flavours — from pear, vanilla and honeysuckle to orange sherbet and chocolate fudge. Expertly crafted from a combination of whisky aged in bourbon casks, and some finished in new char oak casks, its strong profile is a secret weapon for your at-home bar set-up.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed BBQ or an all-singing karaoke night, this is the whisky to add to the mix.
Why not try: Glenmorangie X Cocktail Night with Friends Recipe Chock-full of dark-fruit sweetness, this drink is best mixed with laughter and good company.
Ingredients Crushed ice 50ml X by Glenmorangie 25ml lemon juice 10ml agave syrup 12.5ml blackcurrant cordial
Garnish Lemon wheels Blackberry
Method 1. Fill highball glass with crushed ice. Add X by Glenmorangie, lemon juice and agave syrup. 2. Stir, then top with blackcurrant cordial and garnishes.
Lauded for their efficacy, superior formulas, ease of application and innovation, these are the skincare products you need to know to help you cultivate a healthy, head-to-toe glow.
New Kid on the Block: Augustinus Bader The Serum Backed by visionary ‘clean’ science, Augustinus Bader’s breakthrough new product — The Serum — is an illumination. Powered by TFC8 technology, it’s a fast-absorbing concentrate supporting complete complexion correction and renewal. Its natural ingredients help the skin’s most persistent challenges, from dehydration and environmental damage to the appearance of imperfections and loss of elasticity. It’s effortless and all-encompassing.
At-Home Spa:Dr. Barbara Sturm The Glow Kit While we can’t all be a patient of Dr. Sturm’s medical aesthetics clinic in Düsseldorf, we can take home her innovative products that harness the power of the body’s own proteins to heal skin and reduce the visible signs of inflammation. The antioxidant-rich Glow Kit is a seven-step skincare routine designed to leave you with a straight-from-the-spa glow.
The Game-Changer: Guerlain Abeille Royale Advanced Youth Watery Oil It’s not just mānuka honey that’s famed for its topical benefits. Guerlain’s glowing new product harnesses Black Bee honey from Ouessant Island in Brittany, France, along with honey from Corsica, Ikaria and Åland and an exclusive royal jelly — all with unique strengths. Aiming to accelerate skin’s natural repair mechanisms while offering weightless moisture, what’s truly amazing about this ‘watery oil’ is that it sinks seamlessly into the skin, leaving no oily residue behind.
The Night Shift: La Prairie Skin Caviar Nighttime Oil The Swiss know their way around high-quality products, and the luxury skincare from La Prairie is no exception. New to its lauded Skin Caviar range is the Nighttime Oil, reportedly three years in the making. Potent yet easily absorbed, the Nighttime Oil utilises La Prairie’s signature caviar-derived retinol and lipids, preserved in squalane to smooth lines, treat dehydration and impart a hefty glow.
Puffiness Be Gone:La Mer Lifting Eye Serum From the experts at La Mer, the silky Lifting Eye Serum has a potent Stretch Matrix Complex that visibly lifts and firms eye contours. Added drops of its signature Miracle Broth sea botanical soothe and hydrate, while copper gluconate promotes collagen production and elasticity, for an all-over elevated effect.
Superior SPF Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step in any summer beauty routine, and there are several excellent formulations depending on your desired finish. Available from Inès Store, Mara Sea Kale Sunscreen Sérum is an SPF 30 liquid that sinks into the skin with no white residue. Sothys Fluide Protector SPF 50 pledges protection against UVA, UVB and infrared radiation for the face and ‘sensitive zones’, while the tinted iteration of EltaMD’s UV Clear Broad-Spectrum doubles as light coverage and hydration with added hyaluronic acid. To give the face a subtly buildable tan, look to the Dior Bronze Beautifying Protective Creme Sublime Glow; with its SPF 30 or 50 protection, it has a milky, lightweight texture for instantly supple skin.
The Master Mask: Codage Micro-Peeling Mask When you want that deep-clean feeling, Codage’s Micro-Peeling Mask will leave you refreshed. A surprisingly delicious blend of BHA and AHA fruit acids from blueberry, lemon and maple are infused in a creamy gel emulsion that deeply dissolves pore blockages and minimises fine lines, dark spots and blemishes. The result is a radiant, glowing complexion in minutes.
Natural Radiance: Sothys NoctuelleRenovative Night Cream Because our cells renew best when we sleep, Sothys’ Noctuelle range has discovered highly effective active ingredients to restore your skin night after night. The Renovative Night Cream makes the most of marine collagen, an AHA complex, and organic blackcurrant buds to revive the complexion. Meanwhile, the biodegradable Renovative Micro Capsules cushion vitamin C with plant-based ingredients for a velvety-smooth formula, which reduces wrinkles and dark spots while boosting firmness and radiance, for an overall rested look.
Fantastic Firmer:Linda Meredith V-Tox Touted as a non-invasive Botox alternative, the V-Tox cream by revered London facialist Linda Meredith may just prompt you to nod farewell to needles. Utilising botanical algae derivatives to relax the skin, this powerful anti-ageing treatment is made even more potent in professional treatments through the use of oxygen facials — available in New Zealand at Park Hyatt Auckland’s spa.
Summer suiting requires a more airy approach — linen shirts, crisp yet easy trousers and lighter tones will keep you cool even as temperatures rise. Most importantly, you’ll avoid looking slobby with shapes that are relaxed but refined. Look to local experts Working Style, Dadelszen and Workshop for sophisticated staples, as well as international Houses Saint Laurent and Burberry.
Left: Sam Denim Linen Shirt from Working Style. James Perse Standard Shirt from Workshop. Giuseppe White Poplin Shirt from Working Style.
Grey check jacket, Piero navy shirt, Haines bone chino, and plaited leather belt from Working Style.
From left: Chino Beige Trouser from Dadelszen. Chino pants from Saint Laurent. Koru leather belt from Workshop. Interlocking G cufflinks from Gucci.
Fendi Spring 2022.
From left: Gianni Light Blue Jacket from Working Style. Cream Twill Jacket from Working Style. Slim-Fit Stretch Wool Jacket from Burberry.
If there is one thing we have learnt these last few months, it’s that moments with friends and family are special, and should be treated as such. While many of us have missed milestones, there is no time like the present to celebrate our successes — no matter how big or small — and raise a glass to the good times. Now that we are not taking any moment for granted, why not reach past the regular rosé for a sparkling bottle of G.H. Mumm Grand Cordon Rosé?
In time for the summer holidays — and long summer days and evenings with a glass of Champagne in hand — G.H. Mumm is giving us reason enough to celebrate. The leading Champagne Maison has a legacy of bringing people together to toast to their life, their choices and their pursuit of progress, no matter how casual the occasion may seem — especially as we have come accustomed to sharing special moments in our own backyard (quite literally).
Opening a bottle of the G.H. Mumm Grand Cordon Rosé can elevate any personal event, whether it is enjoyed on its own or paired with a range of creative and modern dishes. This is an inspiring sip — as our celebration suggestions show. Best book in a long-awaited catch-up and recreate one of the below.
For when you want to be the host with the most, Mumm’s Grand Cordon Rosé is as radiant as the sunset — with glints of orange energised by a stream of fine bubbles — that is an aesthetically pleasing match for sushi and sashimi, like the colourful platters found at Ebisu. From fresh tuna and salmon to kingfish and prawns, these bracing Japanese flavours pair well with the Rosé’s invigorating initial impression on the palette.
When you want to toast to past success or new beginnings, we recommend a sublime Italian moment in time. The passion that goes into an antipasto platter like Non Solo Pizza’s are a match with Mumm for intensity — and they pair well with the Grand Cordon Rosé’s on-the-nose notes of candied berries and sweet spice, with a subtle yet luscious hint of red-berry coulis.
When marking your own milestones, bringing along only the best bubbles will do. The Grand Cordon Rosé pairs particularly well with New Zealand seafood, as sampled in Ostro’s fine platter. The assured vivacity of such a get together will match that of G.H. Mumm and its bottle of Grand Cordon Rosé — the latter of which is both energetic and elegantly structured with a long, bright finish.
To ensure you have something to toast to, we are giving away a G.H. Mumm celebration, including one bottle of Grand Cordon Rosé, two drinking flutes, two cushions, a picnic basket, a beautiful bouquet from Kensal Flowers and your choice of one of the above Savor Group meals.
Proving the magic of an ice cream cake never diminishes, no matter what age and stage of life one might be at, Island Gelato Company’s spectacular creations make for an impressive (and delicious) sweet treat to share with loved ones.
The popular gelateria, which has four locations in Auckland including a Ponsonby road store opening imminently, is renowned for its sensational scoops that use only the best ingredients in its range of 70-plus flavours.
True to form, the gelato cakes are delightful to look at and delightful to eat, with the range encompassing mouth-watering flavours like Banoffee Pie, Espresso Martini, Summer Bombe Alaska and even a vegan Chocolate Praline Crunch.
Peanut Butter & Jam, Yes Ma’am.
Just in time for Christmas, Island Gelato has also created two, limited-edition festive flavours that combine intricate construction and premium ingredients with plenty of whimsy. The first, cheekily named Rum Rudolph Rum, comprises gelato layers of rum ‘n’ raisin, hazelnut and chocolate praline, with candied hazelnuts and a rum mousse centre.
Jingle Bell Rocks, on the other hand, is a very-berry medley of gelato layers that include roast cherry jam, white chocolate and coconut flavours, plus cherry and strawberry sorbet and is finished off with a white chocolate and cherry rice crispy base.
Jingle Bell Rocks.
Available for pre-order from the store’s website from the 6th of December, these festive gelato beauties are to be made in limited numbers while the rest of the flavour range is ongoing. We dare say you don’t even really need a specific occasion to order one — when a cake looks (and tastes) this good, it becomes an opportunity for celebration in and of itself.
The team behind some of Auckland’s most popular eateries has delved into a delicious new venture: pizza. Named Green Door Pizza, the new opening is the brainchild of David Lee and Oliver Simon of Gochu and Good Dog Bad Dog, along with Tom Hong (co-owner of Lee’s Newmarket eatery The Candyshop) and Oliver Rennie.
The focus is on New York-style-meets Napolese pizza, with a sourdough base that results in a perfectly crisp, puffy crust. Green Door’s chef Rennie (previously a chef at Gochu) also worked at famed Melbourne restaurant Leonardo’s Pizza Palace so he certainly knows his way around a pizza oven. In keeping with every one of this team’s venues, the menu at Green Door boasts delicious ingredient combinations that don’t skimp on flavour.
You’ll find classics like a margherita and pepperoni, alongside a mushroom pizza with shallots, raclette vincotto and thyme, and a very appealing mortadella combination with fresh mozzarella, olives, roasted red peppers and guindilla chillies.
During alert level 3, Green Door Pizza was available as a pop-up pick-up joint from The Candyshop in Newmarket, serving whole pies to take home. Now, its new location is on the ground floor of Commercial Bay and the focus is on individual slices plus moreish sides, and a drinks offering encompassing natural wine and beers on tap.
New flavours appearing on the menu as the Commercial Bay location opens are a vegan ‘melanzana’ (smoked eggplant, cavolo nero, confit garlic and almond cream), a ricotta and zucchini, a fennel salami with pickled fennel, and a Hawaiian with smoked speck and pickled pineapple.
Much like Good Dog Bad Dog, Green Door Pizza centres on a beloved food group and takes it to the next level, in terms of quality, flavour and execution. Now that Commercial Bay has opened its doors again, and hospitality can trade in-person once more, we know where we’ll be for a lunchtime slice or three.
Catch the light, and a little envy, with the most captivating gold jewellery of the social season. From Chopard’s Happy Diamonds centring on a yellow gold ring to Tiffany & Co’s garden party-inspired Vine earrings — layer whatever takes your fancy. Shop the new season styles below:
Christopher Esber Reversed Magnum Hoop from Muse Boutique, Roberto Coin Love in Verona Wide Yellow Gold Bangle from Partridge Jewellers, Christopher Esber Linked Bracelet in Gold from Muse Boutique.
With the arrival of loosened restrictions around dining in local restaurants coming this Friday, to say we’re excited is an understatement. The calibre of Auckland eateries is such that, while we’ve enjoyed special takeaways that wouldn’t normally be available, it’s seemed an utter travesty that we can’t enjoy a meal on-site as they’re meant to be served.
We’re also looking forward to more people having the chance to try eateries that were freshly opened this year when we were plunged back into lockdown, and one of the destinations that should be at the top of your list is Bar Magda.
Having just opened in June, Bar Magda’s location downstairs on Cross St, one over from Karangahape Road, means it’s delightfully off-the-beaten-track — which didn’t stop word from quickly spreading about this unique and delicious destination. Founded by chef Carlo Buenaventura, Craig Thompson and Matt Venables, the bar and restaurant centres on Aotearoa’s seasonal produce through a Filipino lens, and a thoroughly thoughtful drinks menu.
From left: Preserved kohlrabi; Lamb ribs cooked over coals, green sambal, soft herbs.
Inside, Bar Magda envelops visitors upon entry in a warm, red-tinged glow. Seating 52, the space is divided into three zones — there is a more intimate dining area near the open kitchen, and then a bar and dining space through a glass door that also has standing room (for when alert levels are even lower), tables and bar-leaners.
Should you sit down to eat (and, you should), you’ll be served dishes with contemporary fusion flavours to the fore. Seasonally driven yet inspired by Buenaventura’s upbringing in the Southern Philippines, the menu comprises sharing plates that can be ordered a la carte, and also set menus, from a pre-theatre selection for $55 a head, or different tiers of “Magda Feasts”.
It is divided into three main sections: “to start”, “something cold”, and “something hot”. Often there will be a sour-sweet, sour-salty or sour-spicy element that cuts beautifully through creamy, richer flavours.
Must-try new dishes include green-lipped mussel escabeche with green garlic and fennel on the “something cold” menu; charred carrots, beetroot relish and chifa sauce, charcoal beef steak with soy butter and scallions, and grilled chicken and duck liver parfait with smoked cherries, chicken skin and marbled Viennese brioche are stand-outs in the “something hot” section, as are the signature lamb ribs with soft herbs and green sambal.
Should you just be dropping in for a drink and a quick snack, the bar food menu reinterprets the main offering into more tapas-style dining.
From left: Barbecue cauliflower, almond kolma; Watermelon and strawberry, gracias dios mezcal, yellow chartreuse.
Drinks-wise, find plenty to wet your whistle. In the cocktail realm, a selection of lesser-adopted aperitifs offers something different. These include Rinquinquin, a peach liquor, French aperitif Suze and various vermouths. Otherwise, categories of stirred, seasonal, and crowd-favourite cocktails offer something for everyone, plus digestifs. The wine list is concise, championing small or family-owned vineyards and natural, organic wine, as well as excellent more traditionally-made drops. Classic pours are on tap courtesy of Hallertau beer and there are rotating beer specials from microbreweries.
A destination to prioritise for both date night and group catch-ups; a convivial beverage or a full, sit-down meal, Bar Magda’s distinctive yet versatile offering will impress long after you’ve left the building.
For the month of December, Bar Magda is offering a 10 percent discount on any meals booked Monday to Wednesday.
To celebrate Bar Magda’s reopening and new menu, we’re giving away a two-course set menu meal for a party of six, to be enjoyed on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.
Non Solo Pizza has been a beloved Parnell neighbourhood institution for over 25 years. Now, its convivial charm has arrived in the inner city with the opening of sister venue Bar Non Solo.
Located in the refurbished space that previously housed The Deck at Ostro, Bar Non Solo initially cut its metaphorical opening ribbon on the 13th of August — the next week, we were plunged into a four-month lockdown. Anyone lucky enough to slip in a visit in that first weekend would agree, this new venture is set to be a roaring success. Now, with hospitality able to host in-person customers once again from Friday the 3rd of December, we know where our first stop will be.
Having dialled up the vibe of its suburban counterpart to offer a party-ready space that’s perfect for after-work drinks, pre-dinner snacks and lively nightcaps, Bar Non Solo is a well-heeled inner-city destination indeed. Step out of the level two lift, and a brand new entranceway welcomes you, with Ostro revelling in its prime waterfront spot to the left, and Bar Non Solo taking in the lights of Britomart to the right.
Find a menu brimming with Italian bites and cocktails.
With Paul Izzard and his award-winning team taking care of the redesign, Bar Non Solo’s space feels both spacious and welcoming, with varying sizes and heights of table catering to everyone from couples on dates to groups of friends catching up. Continuing Ostro’s dark green palette, albeit with a deeper, more olive-tinted hue, are leather banquettes and covered stools, plus charming tiled tabletops and painted wood consoles.
The drinks list focuses on Italian cocktails (including a negroni on tap), spritzes, digestifs and wine, while Savor Group Executive Chef Chris Rendell has reinvented Non Solo’s menu to have more of a small-plates focus. Find pasta, antipasti and salumi among the various sharing dishes, as well as the eatery’s famous pizza (an impressive pizza oven has been installed).
The menu includes NSP favourites pasta and pizza.
Non Solo’s legendary Aperitivo hour is another thing this bar has in common with its Parnell sister; running Wednesday to Saturday from 5 — 7pm, expect free bar bites, flowing Peroni and spritzes. On Friday evening, the plan is to kick things up a notch with a selection of the best DJs in town on the decks — all helping Bar Non Solo to bring the spirit of Italian nightlife to Britomart.
Some anticipated tables are still available to book for varying group sizes, while booking is mandated under the traffic light system. You’ll be sure to find us here, enthusiastically soaking up the atmosphere all summer long.
Video at top of page was filmed in August 2021 before lockdown restrictions.
With a long history of partnerships in Christchurch, ECC has opened the doors to a new Showroom at the shopping destination that is Victoria Street in the city’s centre. Following the opening of the brand’s Architectural Lighting Showroom in 2019, just around the corner on the same street, this proudly refined and meticulously considered store space was the natural evolution for ECC.
Bringing the world’s leading lighting and furniture brands exclusively to New Zealand, the new curated space is designed for exploring. Family-owned and operated since 1909, ECC is currently run by third-generation Mike Thorburn with sons Richard and Andrew. Their current range includes contemporary and timeless classics many design aficionados will know well.
Made in Italy, the stand-out brand Minotti blends tradition and technique with clean lines, comfort and impeccable attention to detail. For a feel-good factor, the Netherland’s Linteloo has the right balance of structure and softness, with a hefty dose of Dutch design, for furniture that is a joy to live with. Meanwhile, another Italian brand, Magis, incorporates cutting edge technology, and creativity, into its smart designs. Other furniture labels include Giorgetti, Henge, Glas Italia and Piet Boon.
For lighting, look to those that spark new design ideas. The iconic Flos provides legacy lamps that are a testament to timeless design with technical excellence. Vancouver and Berlin-based Bocci brings sculptural glass lighting, while Melbourne based Christopher Boots is a conduit for the material and metaphysical exploration of quartz crystal light fixtures. Other leading lights include Astro, Marset, Tom Dixon and Gervasoni.
With such highly regarded brands in its new showroom stable, ECC has every element of a design-oriented home covered, from floor to ceiling.
After the year we’ve all had, we’re more than ready to embrace a relaxed and restorative festive season. This includes Christmas day and the lead-up — we’re not in the mood to be stressed and breaking a sweat while trying to get egg whites whipped for a pav. This doesn’t mean a lacklustre dessert centrepiece is on the cards, however, with The Pantry’s incredible Christmas offering available to impart significant wow factor to any spread.
Park Hyatt Auckland’s popular daytime eatery, this season The Pantry is a veritable treasure trove of incredible edible Christmas goodies, both made in-house and from traditional Italian makers.
Within the housemade selection are showstopping trifles and tarts, moreish mince pies, roulades, gingerbread houses and even a gingerbread wreath. Designed and created by Park Hyatt’s Executive Pastry Chef Callum Liddicoat and his team, each sweet sensation is a feast for both the eyes and the stomach, created with expert finesse and attention to detail.
While many of these desserts are of course traditional, Liddicoat and the team have put their own, fresh spin on each creation. Take the trifles, for example — available in three flavours (Tropical & Coconut, Berry & Peach, and Chocolate, Cherry & Mascarpone), they encompass silky panna cotta, fresh fruity compotes, airy sponge and clever gels and meringues. While we’re sure your grandmother’s trifle is tasty, these are next level and come in a glass trifle bowl that the recipient gets to keep.
The tarts are also exquisite; from lemon meringue to strawberry, chocolate hazelnut to raspberry, each is a colourful symphony of flavour and luscious presentation. For fans of a classic mince pie, The Pantry’s have a boozy touch from the fruit mixture being soaked in New Zealand-made, six-spiced botanical rum from Honest Spirits.
Any of the goods on offer would make a special gift, too — the gingerbread houses, in particular, are great for this, or the gingerbread wreath.
Additionally, within the broader Christmas Shop selection, find Dolce & Gabbana’s famously beautiful (and tasty) panettones as well as various flavours of panettone from traditional Italian pastry company Fiasconaro, chocolates from Bombones Cudié via Sabato, and more.
Whatever your choice, it’s sure to make sweet work of dessert this festive season.
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