Make the most of your next big catch with this unbeatable fish taco recipe

Traditional Mexican tacos are universally tasty — made so by virtue of the fact that each one can be made to suit individual tastes. In this recipe (one of our favourites), fish is used as a light base for the taco filling, while a focus on fresh ingredients render the morsels healthy enough to justify a second margarita (or third).

Fish Tacos with Slaw, Mango Salsa and Avocado & Lime Dressing Recipe
Makes enough for six tacos.

Ingredients:

Fish
½ cup coconut milk
Juice of one lime
1 tsp of red chilli powder
½ teaspoon of sea salt
Approx. 350 grams of fresh snapper

Slaw
¼ cup of mayo
Juice of 1 lime
A handful of freshly chopped coriander, plus a little extra to garnish
Half a purple cabbage, shredded
Salt & pepper to taste

Mango salsa
1 large mango, peeled and cut into 1cm pieces
½ cup coriander, chopped
½ small red onion, finely chopped
1 packet of grape tomatoes, halved
1 fresh chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
Lime juice and salt to taste

Avocado & lime dressing (optional)
1 avocado
1 clove garlic
½ lime, squeezed
¼ tsp of sea salt
3 Tbsp olive oil
¼ cup greek yoghurt
¼ cup water

Essential:
1 pack of Tio Pablo Authentic corn tortillas
, or similar

Method:
1. Whisk the coconut milk, lime juice, chilli powder, and salt together.
2. Add the snapper until evenly coated before placing in the fridge to marinate for 20 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the slaw by mixing the mayo, lime juice and coriander. Then throw in the shredded cabbage and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. To make the avocado and lime dressing, blitz in a food processor until smooth. You can store this in an air-tight mason jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.

5. For the mango salsa, mix all the chopped ingredients together in a bowl. Wait until the last moment to squeeze the lime on, so it doesn’t ‘cook’ the coriander.
6. Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Remove the snapper from the marinade and pan fry until opaque, approximately 3 to 5 minutes per side. Let rest for 5 minutes before flaking with a fork.
7. If you are making the avocado and lime dressing, whizz all the aforementioned ingredients together in a blender.
8. To assemble the tacos, serve the snapper over lightly grilled tortillas with the slaw and avocado dressing. Add a generous squeeze of lime juice and garnish with the mango salsa, plus a little extra coriander.

Image credit: Tabitha Blue

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Crisp shirts to signal the start of summer in the city

The summer shirt is a seasonal staple that ensures you look put-together even when the humidity heightens, and some looks start to go sideways. Crisp cotton styles are a breeze to wear, whether your pair yours tucked into leather skirts, flowing over tailored pants or layered under a statement dress.

While the versatile style is timeless, the trends can be delineated this season by the sleeve length — whether they are long, t-shirt, or simply non-existent. Choose your inner-city confidence boost below.

Left to right: Acne Studio Washed Cotton Sleeveless shirt from Workshop, Louis Vuitton Monogram Stripes Lavaliere blouse, Christian Dior Embroidered Sleeveless blouse, Theory Classic stretch-silk shirt from Net-A-Porter.

Ensuring you keep your cool, sleeveless shirts have a literal edge to them. Smart and contemporary, the collared style may be arms-free but they lend a hand in the street-style stakes.

Left to right: Camilla and Marc Kyra shirt, Christian Dior Chez Moi shirt, Matteau Short Sleeve Silk shirt from Muse Boutique.
Left to right: Louis Vuitton Monogram Ombre Silk top, Camilla and Marc Amaia shirt, The Row Elada oversized cotton-poplin shirt from Net-A-Porter.

Tropical-style shirts have a whole new vocation compared to the ones we used to buy on vacation. With long t-shirt sleeves and the odd pocket, the casual style has been elevated with careful design details. Throw on for a layer of louche luxury.

Left to right: Louis Vuitton Map Print Silk shirt, Loulou Studio Pulau shirt from Workshop, Totême organic cotton shirt from Net-A-Porter.

Business shirts are anything but boring when you look to luxury brands that always have a new design up their sleeve. From classic white and pinstripe to all-encompassing maps of the world, each and every one of these button-downs is a smart update.

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Meet Bunanza, the sweet micro-bakery specialising in insanely delicious cinnamon buns

While doughnut purveyors have certainly had their moment in the sun, the creator of another sweet doughy treat has caught our beady, brioche-loving eyes — and we’re betting the uptake will be enthusiastic indeed.

Specialising in moist, generously-frosted cinnamon buns, Bunanza was founded by local chef Krista On Hing, and we can attest to her prowess with each doughy delight. On Hing has worked in hospitality for over 16 years, training as a chef in Auckland before cooking at the likes of Meredith’s and, most recently, Gemmayze Street. 

Having finished up at Gemmayze to explore new avenues just before lockdown, On Hing’s idea for Bunanza was born from extra time and a desire to do something with idle hands. In making cinnamon buns for her sweet-toothed partner, she found she thoroughly enjoyed the process and decided to take it one step further. And the response has been great so far.

“People love sweets and pâtisseries and beautiful-looking things to give as gifts — or just for themselves,” says On Hing, when asked why she thinks the buns have been popular from the outset.

Available in boxes of six or 12, Bunanza’s buns are a feast for the eyes and the stomach. Toppings wise, there is currently a zesty, creamy orange blossom cream cheese swirl; a silky swiss meringue buttercream whipped up with vanilla, and a nutty, sweet browned butter with chopped salted almonds.

Having started up so recently, On Hing is keen to get her systems sorted, then will look at expanding to other flavours — including, perhaps, a festive Christmas flavour. 

Currently available for delivery on days and to locations stipulated on the website, Bunanza’s buns are easy to order — and are also baked fresh on the day of delivery to ensure the most heavenly soft texture. 

Paired with a hot cup of tea or coffee, we can’t think of anything else we’d rather indulge in for a mid-morning treat or afternoon pick-me-up.

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Inspired by the beauty of nature, Nespresso’s limited-edition festive collection is a flavourful ode to the forest

As we on this side of the globe head into summer, our festive season is often inextricably intertwined with a renewed appreciation for nature in all its glory. From days at the beach to bush walks and lingering evenings under clear skies, a collective outward breath seems to occur as an increase in fresh air works its magic.

Fittingly, this festive season sees coffee brand Nespresso capture its own smidgeon of nature’s magic and deliver it to coffee lovers everywhere, with the release of its limited-edition, Gifts of the Forest collection. Inspired by the beauty and depth of nature’s forests, the collection features a range of limited-edition coffees for both the Original and Vertuo systems, along with festive-inspired accessories. 

Gifting for the gourmand just got even easier with the selection of flavours — comprising two flavoured coffees and one black coffee — that channel various notes from forest fruits to hints of exotic woodiness. They are wrapped in eye-catching motifs designed especially for the packaging by Colombian luxury fashion designer Johanna Ortiz, making reaching for each pod an artful touch.

The Forest Black coffee is a spicy espresso with unique woody notes, while the Forest Fruit Flavour is a south American Arabica with juicy berry aromas and a lingering cereal character that imparts a sweet, pastry note — ideal for the festive season. Forest Almond Flavour has a sweet nuttiness, its almond notes marked by vanilla and light fruitiness.

Within the accessories selection, there is a revamped to-go Touch travel mug in a festive sparkling gold, and a new ‘Deep Cherry’ shade of Nespresso’s Nomad travel mug.

In the spirit of gifting, Nespresso is also giving back to the forest so central to both its growing processes and the theme of its latest release. It has announced its contribution towards protecting 10 million trees in the Amazon Forest in La Pedrera, Colombia, in collaboration with Conservation International and La Pedrera’s Madroño community.

Clearly, Nespresso is spreading joy far beyond just our daily cuppa this festive season.

Enjoy a Forest Fruit martini with this bespoke Nespresso recipe:
A bright and refreshing take on the classic Espresso Martini, this is perfect for summer. The Forest Fruit Martini has lively notes of jammy berry and a hint of chocolate. 

Ingredients:
Nespresso Forest Fruit Flavour (Espresso 40ml extraction)
6 ice cubes
15ml Blackberry syrup 
15ml Kahlua 
30ml vodka
Blackberry for garnish 

Equipment needed:
Nespresso (Original) machine
Cocktail shaker
Martini glass (chilled)

Method:
1. Place ice cubes, vodka, Kahlua and blackberry syrup into a shaker.
2. Extract coffee directly into the shaker as the last ingredient.
3. Place lid on shaker and shake hard for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until ice forms on outside of shaker.
4. Remove lid and strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with blackberry floated on top. 

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A chic and peaceful oasis of calm, this Mexican holiday home has us dreaming of a far-flung vacation

A holiday state of mind is bound to arrive promptly as soon as one steps foot inside the perimeter of Casa Areca. Designed by Joana Gomes and Joshua Beck, founders of Mexican firm Co-Lab Design Office, this Tulum holiday home is a triumph of peaceful cohesion encompassing both its interiors and the surrounding landscape. 

The 285-square-metre abode was carefully positioned on a narrow lot in order to preserve existing trees and vegetation, like the areca palm plants from which it takes its name, and is flooded with natural light and a refreshing cross-breeze year-round thanks to abundant, large windows and tall pivot doors.

On the first floor are the four bedrooms (each with an ensuite), allowing the ground floor to embrace an open plan layout. The kitchen, dining and living room are all found here, with a breezy setup that suits the nature-nestled locale perfectly.

A wraparound deck allows for ample poolside lounging, framed by lush greenery and absolute privacy thanks to a tall, rustic stone wall, built using the stone that was excavated to make the pool. Ascend to the rooftop and find a delightful upper patio area. Daytime sunbathing, evenings spent taking in the sunset and even activities like yoga are all the more enjoyable when set among the treetops of the surrounding jungle.

As they are wont to do with most of their projects, the Co-Lab team oversaw each step of the process from architecture to construction, plus interiors and landscaping. An emphasis on natural materials and hand-craftsmanship prevails throughout the bespoke furnishings, designed by Co-Lab and made by Yucatan artisans.

All of this is certainly in keeping with Co-Lab’s core philosophy of encouraging a greater connection to the natural world through design. A solar panel system was installed to reduce carbon emissions, and the wood used in its construction was harvested locally from a tree farm, then treated to blend seamlessly with the surrounding colour palette.

Thanks to its muted yet marvellous design and comfortable details, Casa Areca is an utterly beautiful place to spend serenely sun-soaked days.

Clockwise: Doppio Grid Natural Bamboo Pendant by AY Illuminate from ECC, Burling Captains Dining Chair from Devon, Sealine sofa by Jean-Marie Massuad for Dedon from Dawson & Co., RRh Clay Pot by Atelier Vierkant from ECC, Trestle Table from Tim Webber Design.

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Just in time for sophisticated summer picnics, Scapegrace introduces a locally-made RTD with authentic, artisanal vodka

Despite restrictions, we are showing up to outdoor gatherings with our can-do spirit. As a quite literal interpretation of this ethos, artisan distillery Scapegrace has launched a new range of RTDs — that’s ready-to-drink, for the uninitiated — made with its hand-crafted, batch-distilled vodka from Canterbury.

Challenging the traditional way of thinking about canned beverages with a commitment to quality and taste, Scapegrace has created a polished as well as practical sip, with the same craft credentials of its luxury spirit stable. It’s a welcome respite to a recent influx of RTDs that use mass-produced neutral spirits or whey spirits (a by-product from the dairy industry).

After 12-months of serious taste tests, Scapegrace has perfected a balance of fresh flavours, made with 100 percent natural extracts, with its award-winning international vodka. Founders and brother-in-law duo, Mark Neal and Daniel Mclaughlin, knew they wanted to capture three distinct flavours, something that would suit any occasion and every mood.

For something citrus, the classic Hawke’s Bay Lime captures the sunshine-feeling of one of New Zealand’s lushest produce regions. For something more tart, the Pomegranate & Doris Plum is crisp, refined and refreshing. Meanwhile, the Red Delicious Apple & Pear drop is a seasonal libation to lift spirits.

As well as celebrating top-shelf New Zealand vodka, all three options are low in sugar, low in calories, and perfectly balanced with soda. The Scapegrace super-premium vodka RTDs come in a 330ml can 10-pack, and are stocked nationwide at all good liquor stores.

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Photo: Alex Lau

This breakfast sandwich is sure to get you out of bed and into the kitchen this weekend

Fluffy eggs, melty cheese and hot sauce combine to create this brilliant breakfast sandwich recipe. Packed with umami flavour, this vegetarian sammie will be a hit with herbivores and carnivores alike. The secret weapon? Jammy, slow-roasted onions that will have you saying, bacon who?

Breakfast sandwich recipe
Serves 2

Ingredients:
1 medium red onion, peeled and chopped into thick rings
1 tsp soy sauce
½ tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
Flaky sea salt
¼ cup finely chopped soft herbs, such as basil, coriander, and/or dill
2 tbsp green or red hot sauce
1 tbsp unsalted butter
4 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 wholegrain English muffins, split and toasted
60g cheddar cheese, sliced

Method:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C.
2. Toss onion rings, soy sauce, garlic powder, and 1 tbsp oil (reserving other tbsp for later) in bowl to coat. Spread on a large baking tray. Bake, tossing once halfway through, until onion is browned around the edges and very tender (approx. 25–35 minutes). Let cool for 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, toss herbs, hot sauce, and remaining 1 tbsp oil in a small bowl. Season with salt, if needed.
4. Melt butter in a small nonstick pan over medium heat. Add eggs; season with salt. Cook, stirring with a rubber spatula, until eggs have set into creamy folds (approx. 1–2 minutes).
5. Spread herb sauce on cut sides of muffins. Transfer bottom halves to a baking tray. Top with eggs, then lay cheese over. Bake bottom halves just until cheese is melted, about 5 minutes. Top with onion and close with muffin tops.

Do ahead: Onion can be cooked 5 days ahead. Transfer to an airtight container and chill. To make a sandwich quickly without turning your oven on, fold the cheese into the eggs when they have just begun to set, top with onion (no need to rewarm), and assemble with toasted English muffins.

Recipe via Bon Appetit

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The time to book your December gatherings is now!

It’s with a newfound sense of hope that we’ll be enjoying the silly season in restaurants very soon. Whether it’s to celebrate missed milestones, regale our rediscovered freedom with friends and family, or a Christmas celebration, before we know it, we’ll be able to eat, drink and be especially merry.

With all signs leading towards December opening up to some degree, it’s time to book into one of the following exceptional eateries to ensure you can make the most of the new freedoms when they come into effect. With the silly season bound to be sillier than ever this year, you won’t miss out on Savor Group’s best seats in town, for any size gathering.

From Left: Ebisu’s Ebi Mayo Roll; Ostro’s Seafood platter.

Now is the time to secure a coveted booking at one of your favourite Savor eateries. For those who appreciate a sea breeze as they enjoy chilled wine and contemporary fusion fare, we recommend booking into Azabu Mission Bay as soon as possible, and asking for a spot in the Roku Gin Garden where there are always good times to be had.

Those with a calling for seafood on the waterfront, look no further than Ostro and Ebisu, with their outstanding menus and service in what we are sure will become the focal point of sparkling end-of-year celebrations, Seafarers.

From left: Amano’s Beef Carpaccio; Ostro & Bar Non Solo.

For those looking for an intimate gathering, Ortolana is a haven in the heart of Britomart that will leave you and your loved ones with a warm glow long after you leave. Down the way, perennial favourite Amano also shares a passion for local produce with provenance and Italian-inspired plates. While you’re in Britomart, be sure to check out the shiny new Bar Non Solo, which is a chic and carefree space to create revelry.

Non Solo Pizza is the inspiration behind Bar Non Solo, and we are also booking into this Parnell institution for a well-deserved long lunch. The ivy-covered courtyard is always a coveted spot for end-of-year soirées.

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Our Editor-in-chief takes us on a first look at luxury activewear brand Moncler’s impressive Auckland boutique

With retail stores finally open in Auckland, Denizen’s Editor-in-chief Claire Sullivan-Kraus paid a visit to the highly anticipated new Auckland Moncler boutique at Westfield Newmarket. The pinnacle of technical skill and stylish innovation, Moncler’s new flagship is a step in the right direction for the brand’s contemporary fashion takeover.

With an already dedicated local following, the arrival of Moncler’s flagship will further expand the appeal of this globally revered luxury brand.

Moncler

Shop S135 Ground Floor
277 Broadway
Newmarket, Auckland

09-892 6526

www.moncler.com

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Culprit.

Bring a celebratory feeling to eating at home with the most refined takeaways in town

We are certainly hoping, along with the rest of the hospitality industry no doubt, to be able to visit our favourite restaurants in person sooner rather than later. But, for now, we’re thoroughly enjoying supporting much-loved establishments by ordering their takeaway offering to enjoy at home — and part of the novelty is eating dishes from places that don’t normally do takeaways, ensconced in our own familiar environs.

While we’d gladly go for any of the more casual to-go options any day of the week, when we’re in the mood for something more elevated, these are the offerings we turn to.

From Left: Onemata, Andiamo.

Onemata
Park Hyatt Auckland’s flagship restaurant has a delicious at home offering that will have you feeling suitably indulged. Comprising one main dish, three side dishes and a dessert to share, Onemata at Home is $90 for two people. While the menu will be updated weekly, expect the likes of 55-day aged Scotch fillets with Onemata steak butter, or roasted eggplant, with baba ganoush and truffled date syrup as a vegetarian option. Sides will be something like truffle mac ‘n’ cheese and thyme-roasted beetroot with balsamic dressing. Plus, apple and oat crumble for pud. Available Thursday, Friday and Saturday every week, pick-up at Onemata between 4.30pm — 7pm or free delivery is available for Parnell, Herne Bay, Ponsonby, Eden Terrace and Takapuna. Allow 24 hours before pick-up. Order online here.

Andiamo
Andiamo To Go offers a tasty takeaway menu with contactless pick-up. We’ve got our eye on the newly added ham hock and pork cheek agnolotti, paired with spring greens and brodo.⁠ Gnocchi cacio e pepe, free-range chicken parmigiana and tiramisu for dessert are all sure to have you feeling suitably spoilt — plus various pizzettes and a dedicated picnic box menu. Orders can be placed between 4pm – 8pm, with contactless pick-up available from 5pm. ⁠Contactless delivery is also now available, serving Herne Bay, Saint Mary’s Bay, Ponsonby, Westmere, Grey Lynn and Freemans Bay for $7.50. Phone 09 378 7811 between 4pm and 8pm to place your order and make payment.

From Left: Culprit, Cocoro.

Culprit
The Wyndham St eatery’s deluxe meal kits are next level. Expect three-courses (four if you count the tasty pre-mixed cocktail included) comprising gourmet ingredients like Culprit’s famous chicken liver parfait and more for grazing; and a main like mouth-watering slow-cooked lamb shoulder with kumara dinner rolls. Plus, dessert to finish. The kits are priced from $140 and overnight courier with NZ Couriers is included within a 14km radius of Culprit. Available Thursday, Friday and Saturdays. Order online here and make sure you keep an eye on Culprit’s Instagram for updates and when meal kits will be restocked.

Cocoro
Cocoro loosely translates to ‘the heart and soul’ in Japanese, and the Ponsonby eatery pours its heart and soul into every intricate dish. It’s one of Auckland’s best refined Japanese restaurants, and, as such, its takeaways can make any meal at home feel special. The curated menu includes its famous sashimi platter — a symphony of colour, texture and crustacea with over 25 varieties of seafood, including clams, crayfish tail and sea urchins — and other striking signature dishes. Pre-order online here.

From left: Mr Morris, Jervois Steak House.

Mr Morris
Michael Meredith’s Mr Morris is offering a seasonal takeaway menu that is as sophisticated as what’s plated at its Britomart restaurant when it’s open. Available for Friday and Saturday dinners, a choice of two-course meal for two (one is vegetarian) as well as sides and salads awaits. Expect flavoursome classics including its potato bread with smoked paprika butter, plus mains like slow roasted beef cheek with spiced tomato, chickpea with charred cucumbers, and dessert like gingerbread pudding with candied ginger and crème fraîche. It is essential to order in advance for pick-up. Order online here.

Jervois Steak House
Our favourite steak house is offering contactless pick-up. With a curated takeaway menu of all your favourites, including crispy calamari, duck liver parfait, forest mushroom pappardelle, salads and dessert, the range of signature meat cuts also available means you won’t find a better steak anywhere else. Available from 5pm for dinner, and orders can be placed between 4pm – 8pm. Phone 09 376 2049 to place your order and payment.⁠

From Left: The Engine Room, Sid at the French Cafe.

The Engine Room
North Shore neighbourhood bistro The Engine Room is serving up click and collect takeaways of delectable heat and eat meals. Order at least 24 hours in advance and you too could enjoy decadently comforting dishes like duck l’orange, Bloody Mary beef or twice-cooked pork belly. There are also additional items for order like a bake-at-home version of the iconic cheese soufflé, and a daily dessert. Find menu and ordering details here.

Sid at the French Cafe
This Eden Terrace fine dining restaurant is offering heat-and-eat meals like no other during level 3. Pre-order from the website and you’ll have a choice of three options — chef’s signature, vegetarian and à la carte — designed to serve two with nothing more than the minimum amount of effort. Full kits contain entrée, main, sides and dessert — from dishes like Easterbrook quail with black garlic, celeriac and dates, to a Moroccan-style kumara, leek and almond pie, to caramelised pork belly or confit duck leg, this is truly a next-level offering. Pick-up between 3pm and 6pm Thursday to Saturday, and order before midday the day prior to allow the team time to make fresh meals daily. Order online here.

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Bring a taste of summer to your place with Soul Bar’s scrumptious My Seanna cocktail recipe

Here in Auckland, we might not be able to pop out for a tipple to see this week on its merry way, but that needn’t stop us from trying our hand at some at-home mixology. While nothing will ever beat being there in person, Soul Bar and Bistro’s My Seanna cocktail has us counting down the days until summer with its swoon-worthy combination of vodka, Aperol, watermelon, cucumber and mint, with a citrusy burst of lemon and lime.

Soul Bar & Bistro’s My Seanna Cocktail Recipe
Serves 1

Ingredients:
2 round slices of cucumber
45ml vodka
15ml Aperol
30ml watermelon juice, plus watermelon balls to garnish
15ml lemon juice
15ml lime juice
15ml sugar syrup
5-6 mint leaves, plus extra to garnish
Ice 

Method:
1. Muddle 2 coins of cucumber in a cocktail mixing tin.
2. Add the 45ml of vodka, 15ml Aperol, 30ml watermelon juice, 15ml lemon juice, 15ml lime juice, 15ml sugar syrup, and the 5-6 mint leaves.
3. Fill the tin with ice and shake hard.
4. Fine strain into an ice-filled Collins glass and garnish with watermelon balls and a mint sprig. 

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Showcasing some of her rarest and most spectacular fine jewellery, the Jessica McCormack trunk show at Simon James is unmissable

The extraordinary yet effortless jewels of Jessica McCormack are undoubtedly right at the top of any self-respecting diamond lover’s wishlist. With a client list that includes the likes of Madonna, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Liv Tyler, Zoe Kravitz and Victoria Beckham, the New Zealand-born, London based fine jewellery designer imbues her timeless pieces with a contemporary spirit that is utterly bewitching.

While signature McCormack beauties like the Gypset earrings are perenially covetable, those longing for the opportunity to see rarer, even more spectacular pieces can do so right now, thanks to the Jessica McCormack trunk show instore at Simon James — the brand’s exclusive New Zealand stockist.

Taking place for only a short time from today, the 11th of November, until Sunday the 14th of November, the trunk show is open to the public and gives people the opportunity to view and purchase some of Jessica McCormack’s most beautiful bespoke and one-off pieces.

From left: Kite-Shaped Diamond Gypset Hoop Earrings, TILTED PEAR DIAMOND BUTTON BACK RING, SIGNATURE DIAMOND GYPSET HOOP EARRINGS.

These include magnificent sapphires, showstopping kite-shaped diamond pendants and more. So, if you were thinking it was high time you treated yourself (or another lucky, lucky recipient) to some new forever-favourite jewellery, we suggest you make haste and stop by Simon James’ Newmarket store before they’re whisked away overseas once again.

Visit the store any time, or call 09 522 7106 to make an appointment.

Jessica McCormack Trunkshow, 11-14 November
Simon James
2 Kent Street,
Newmarket

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Groundbreaking new luxury concept store Faradays opens its doors in Parnell, bringing brands never seen before on our shores

Since their inception, concept stores have indelibly moulded cities. Milan’s Corso Como, Paris’ Colette and, globally, Dover Street Market have all been emblematic of the cultural zeitgeist of the metropolis. Presenting artistic and well-considered curations of captivating luxury brands, these stores deliver an experience far beyond the usual retail offering. Longtime admirers of these luxury concept models and local fashion tastemakers, Edward and Constance von Dadelszen, are introducing a new era of luxury to New Zealand, with the highly anticipated opening of their retail emporium Faradays

Situated at 8 Faraday Street in Parnell, the 550 square metre flagship opens the doors to its brick-and-mortar location today. This exciting opening, made possible now that the government has moved the Auckland region into a less restricted alert level, comes after the extremely successful online launch of its e-commerce arm on the 8th of October.

Now, customers can experience in person the luxurious escape for the senses that the Faradays team has set out to provide — the calibre of which has never been seen before on our shores. Introducing a multi-faceted fashion and lifestyle experience, the offering encompasses some of the world’s most sought-after brands, including Givenchy, Loewe and Alexandre Vauthier, Christian Louboutin and Giuseppe Zanotti, along with the von Dadelszen’s own, lauded eponymous label. Faradays is also the first in the Southern Hemisphere to offer the legendary house of Alaïa. 

Of course, fashionable concept stores are not just about the clothes. There is a curation of stylish homeware brands, including linen from Saved NY. For intimates, find a sophisticated range of lingerie and sleepwear from La Perla and Bordelle. As well as premium beauty brands to explore, is evocative parfum to spritz from Hermetica, Roja, Loewe and Xerjoff.

Designed by Cheshire Architects, the emporium delivers the ultimate in elegant, full-service retail experiences, with bouquets available from in-house florist Grace + Flora, artworks to purchase from Gow Langsford Gallery, a selection of Dina Broadhurst’s most iconic limited-edition prints and — another Southern Hemisphere first — a dedicated Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame bar, with Dom Pérignon and Krug Champagne also pouring.

“We wanted to create an iconic retail experience that becomes a beacon of luxury in the Antipodes,” says Edward von Dadelszen, Co-founder and CEO. Thanks to the exquisite taste of those at the helm, Faradays is an incredibly exciting retail proposition indeed. 

Here we introduce some of the iconic luxury brands that will call Faradays home, as it welcomes us into its beautiful flagship.

Alaïa
Tunisian couturier Azzedine Alaïa was known for his celebration and understanding of the female form, a thread that remains woven strongly within the brand today, now with Creative Director Pieter Mulier at the helm. In an exciting Antipodean exclusive, Faradays welcomes ready-to-wear pieces from Alaïa’s ‘Editions’ collection — inspired by Maison Alaïa’s cult-status pieces, spanning decades of collections. The full ready-to-wear collection is also available in-store to coincide with the 11th of November opening.

Christian Louboutin
Denoted by and coveted for their iconic red-lacquered soles, Christian Louboutin’s shoes are a globally recognised symbol of fashion-led sensuality. The brand has arrived just in time for party season — find limited-edition sandals and sneakers as well as timeless cult-classics, like the sky-high, black ‘So Kate’ pump.

Alexandre Vauthier
For those who don’t shy away from glamour, Alexandre Vauthier’s extraordinary pieces are the masterful work of a designer who first trained as a couturier. At Faradays, embellished Vauthier accessories catch the light, while a thoughtful edit of ready-to-wear pieces is classic with a high-fashion twist, and a selection of the brand’s incredible footwear is also available.

Giuseppe Zanotti
This world-famous Italian footwear brand has long been a favourite of the fashion and entertainment industry’s elite. Melding luxurious craftsmanship with a streetwear sensibility, Giuseppe Zanotti’s heels, boots and sneakers are the perfect finishing touch to any ensemble, and at Faradays there are both pared-back, refined styles and showstopping stompers to be found.

Givenchy
The heritage French fashion house has long held sensuous elegance and meticulous craftsmanship as core tenets. Creative Director Matthew M Williams is adept at creating left-of-centre, yet instantly cult favourite, accessories — case in point is the sharply angular Cut Out bag, available at Faradays, along with other accessories and a full ready-to-wear collection of men’s and womenswear pieces, making for a comprehensive offering indeed.

Loewe
With Jonathan Anderson at the helm, Spanish luxury fashion house Loewe is one of the most distinctive contemporary brands in the world today, known for iconic leather goods and groundbreaking ready-to-wear collections. Initially stocking its candles and fragrance collections, new season pieces of ready-to-wear have now arrived in the boutique as it opens.

Underneath It All
Luxury lingerie brands are also on hand to ensure what lies underneath is just as decadent as what the world sees. These include Italian brand La Perla, famed for its exquisite craftsmanship and detailing, and luxe-bondage-inspired pieces by British label Bordelle. Highlights within the homeware selection are Ginori 1735, of which Faradays is the exclusive New Zealand retailer, with the limited-edition LCDC collection of home scents and candles; hand-blown Murano glass from Stories of Italy; and New York-designed, Mongolian-made artisanal blankets from Saved NY.

If you wish to be kept in the know with all the luxurious happenings at Faradays, make sure to follow @faradays.store

Coveted

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Game-changing skincare brand Augustinus Bader adds The Serum to its line-up — here’s what you need to know

It would be an understatement to describe the global following of Augustinus Bader as merely ‘enthusiastic’. Since it was founded in 2018 by the leading stem cell and biomedical scientist with whom it shares its name, the highly hailed beauty brand has accumulated countless accolades for its visionary products. Harnessing the science behind Professor Bader’s decades of experience working with burns victims, the central technology in the range is the patented Trigger Factor Complex that supports the skin’s natural process of renewal.

The latest addition to join the luminous product line-up is The Serum, further rounding out the range that includes The Cream, The Rich Cream, The Cream Cleansing Gel and more. The fast-absorbing, silky concentrate supports complete complexion correction, addressing the skin’s most persistent challenges from dehydration and environmental damage, to the appearance of imperfections and loss of elasticity. According to the Professor himself, The Serum is designed to be “an all-in-one problem solver for your skin”, and leaves it looking bouncy, radiant and restored.⁠⁠

Combining the Trigger Factor Complex technology with unique ingredients like alpine plant Edelweiss, it blew expectations out of the water with its clinical trial results, with 85 percent of participants reporting reduced appearance of wrinkles, 84 percent reduction of fine lines and 80 percent reduction in the appearance of hyperpigmentation. When it comes to on-market user results, these percentages are even higher.

The packaging is also stunning and very unique; a high-quality glass outer case can be placed on your vanity, within which sits the recyclable copper-toned aluminium ‘Nomad’ (product bottle). The Nomad is designed as a refill, so you can simply swap it out when it’s empty. And, its superior airless pump design means you get every last bit of that precious product. Trust us, you won’t want to be wasting any of this.

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Sharpen your eyewear shopping focus with Parker & Co’s excellent Newmarket store

As retail re-opens and we set our sights on new beginnings, Parker & Co is opening a bold new home for eyewear aficionados. Found on Newmarket’s Teed Street — and inspired by Italian architect Ettore Sottsass and his colourful Memphis Milano movement — the space is as vibrant and playful as the eyewear on the shelves. “This movement resonates with the store design,” says Founder Lynne Parker. “We wanted a place where clients would enjoy exploring our curated eyewear and sunglasses collections.”

To coincide with the new store are several new curated collections. From the arbiter of understated English cool, Cutler & Gross has delivered a refined line of optical and sunglass frames inspired by the melting pot of cultures and creative characters during the halcyon days of Soho, London. Styles include the 1392, inspired by the sleek unisex uniform of the 60s Beatniks, and the glamorous oval 1395, which reflects the tenets of the Bohemian fashion of the 70s.

From Left: Cutler & Gross 1392; Moscot Lemtosh Fliptosh.

New-York based Moscot has been worn by almost everyone from Andy Warhol to Johnny Depp, and its latest range continues its celebrity-worthy streak, including the Zindik, with a thick acetate frame and available for both sunglasses and opticals, and the new Lemtosh Fliptosh — the ultimate flip-up sunglasses.

From Left: Dior Club M2U; Dior Signature A3U.

As a premium selected stockist for Dior, the store also has early access to the luxury brand’s new styles, which are known to set the trends each season. The most head-turning styles include the Dior Club M2U, with a shield style and monogrammed lenses, and the Signature A3U, which upgrades the sophisticated frame style with finesse.

When it comes to trying on a new pair of glasses, nothing can beat an in-store experience. With an experienced team there to help you, Parker & Co Teed Street will ensure you find your shades for summer.

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
Maggie Marilyn Forever.
Wynn Hamlym Resort 2022.
Sandro, Commercial Bay.

Indulging in some retail therapy? Make sure you support local fashion stores as they reopen this week

The importance of supporting local has never been more true. Our local retailers, boutiques and brands have officially reopened after thirteen long weeks, so if you’ve had your eye on a new pair of boots or a swish new jacket for summer, now’s the time to invest. We hope this selection of new season arrivals provides inspiration for where to start.

Diorsignature Sunglasses by Dior available at Parker & Co.

Parker & Co, Newmarket
A leader in the local eyewear field, Parker & Co. brings in-demand brands such as Celine, Moscot and Victoria Beckham. You’ll find these in its bright and brilliant new home on Teed Street.

Faradays, Parnell
New Zealand’s newest destination for luxury fashion, homewares and beauty. Here you’ll find an incredibly alluring selection of brands from Loewe to Alaïa; Givenchy to Christian Louboutin; La Perla, Ginori 1735, and many more.

Saint Laurent, Newmarket
The heritage French luxury brand, Saint Laurent, has opened its first store in New Zealand at Westfield Newmarket. Here, you’ll find a curated yet substantial selection of women’s and men’s collections, including ready-to-wear and accessories.

Dadelszen.

Dadelszen, Parnell
The ultimate go-to for lovers of impeccable cuts and silhouettes, with an emphasis on beautifully-crafted fine natural fabrics.

Partridge Jewellers, Newmarket & Auckland CBD
Family-operated in New Zealand since the 1800s, the Partridge Jewellers name is inexorably entwined with the highest-quality jewels and jewellery designs, for an intoxicating array of precious sparkles.

Simon James, Newmarket & Herne Bay
Exquisite home and design pieces join an impeccably-curated range of fashion and jewellery, including Jessica McCormack (exclusively stocked at Simon James in New Zealand).

Moncler, Newmarket
The excitement of the world’s fastest-growing luxury brands, Moncler, extends further than its iconic down jacket. The Westfield Newmarket boutique has a range of new season styles.

Elle & Riley.

Elle + Riley, Newmarket & Commercial Bay
Just in time for summer knit season, Elle + Riley’s luxurious cashmere pieces will keep you cosy well into the evening. Keep an eye out for new store openings in the following months too.

Sutcliffe Jewellery, Parnell
Artisan jeweller Brent Sutcliffe is one of the country’s most skilled craftspeople in the realm of fine jewellery, with over 30 years of experience creating bespoke pieces for discerning clients. A must for exquisite, hand-made pieces of unparalleled quality.

Wynn Hamlyn
Striking a balance of playful palettes and relaxed textures, coupled with feminine elegance, Wynn Hamlyn’s knitwear and suiting, in particular, is some of the best around. Visit the Commercial Bay store to try on in person.

Maggie Marilyn, Newmarket & Britomart
Championing transparency, sustainability and circularity, womenswear designer Maggie Marilyn’s pieces are uplifting for the conscience, the wearer and the beholder. Don’t forget to check out the new men’s range.

Muse Boutique.

Muse, Newmarket & Ponsonby
Find Christopher Esber, Matteau, Victoria Beckham, Nanushka and so much more at multi-faceted boutique Muse — as well as excellent pieces under the in-house brand.

Yu Mei, Newmarket & Commercial Bay
For understated luxury in the world of accessories, look no further than leather goods label Yu Mei. Its Commercial Bay store is an artful haven for the bags and wallets of our dreams — read all about its beautiful new collection here.

Kowtow, Newmarket
Kowtow’s sustainability practices and ethical ethos have made it a pioneer in the fashion industry, and its simple, clean-lined wardrobe staples are what you’ll reach for again and again.

Acne Studios FW21 Drop 4, available at Workshop.
Our Legacy FW21 Drop 2, available at Workshop.

Workshop, Newmarket & Ponsonby
Stock up on beloved New Zealand brands Workshop and Helen Cherry, as well as new arrivals from international favourites like Isabel Marant, Acne Studios, and Our Legacy.

Scotties, Ponsonby
Scotties’ selection of highly coveted international brands is some of the best in the country — we can’t go past it for Issey Miyake, Dries Van Noten, Marni and much more.

Ruby, Newmarket, Auckland CBD, Ponsonby & Takapuna
Family-owned local brand Ruby has you sorted for irreverent, playful pieces that will brighten up your wardrobe, and has just released its Resort 22 collection to see us stylishly into summer.

Wixii, Ponsonby
An emphasis on natural fabrics and effortless silhouettes are the pillars of this Ponsonby Central-based brand.

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

On a mission to change the way we think about body care, Tronque’s effective natural formulations are much more than skin deep

When Tronque’s founder set out to create her own below-the-neck body care line, she quite literally set a new standard in natural skincare. Having struggled with her reproductive health, Tanné Snowden discovered the questionable ingredients in the bottles in her bathroom and was determined to create a new luxury range with total transparency.

After two years in development, her Bio-Cleanical® formulas — called such for their intelligent combination of plant actives, and lack of harmful ingredients and endocrine disruptors — are now on shelves.

Not to rush perfection, Tronque launches with three unique products. The Rich as Croesus Firming Butter renews elasticity as it intensely moisturises with nourishing ingredients, including the Marlborough Sounds’ bioactive wakame seaweed and high MGO mānuka honey.

To soften the texture and look of scars, the Soft Focus Scar Concentrate combats uneven pigmentation with not one but four high potency forms of deeply penetrating vitamin C and a complex of bioactive superfruits and antioxidants.

For the ultimate preparation, the Everyday Revelation Exfoliating Serum relies on natural AHAs and BHAs, as well as pineapple enzymes and hyaluronic acid, for gentle exfoliation and optimum cell renewal.

While these beautifully presented bottles have the same levels of high-performance, active ingredients we’ve come to expect in our most admired facial skincare, Snowden is bringing them to the body, so we can find all-inclusive peace of mind.

One of the most important components of a Tronque regime is not found in the formulas — but in the ritual of looking after our whole self. “Skincare means more than just your face,” she says. “Beauty is for head to toe and everything in between.”

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Fix up and look sharp with our Asuwere wardrobe giveaway worth $2000, a perfect gift for a stylish man

When brothers Sam and Noah Hickey launched their fashion brand Asuwere in 2018, they filled a nationwide gap for simple, versatile and high-quality men’s clothing that boasts both ease of wear and everyday polish. Specialising in well-cut yet relaxed separates like linen shirts, organic cotton chinos, t-shirts and sweaters, where Asuwere also sets itself apart is that its core offering is a subscription service.

Recognising that many men don’t really love the activity of shopping, finding it “time-consuming at best and overwhelming at worst”, Asuwere’s membership allows for monthly drops of new product to be delivered to the door of the wearer, taking things like seasonality into consideration.

Each drop builds on the last, so by the end of the 12 months, a full wardrobe of cohesive staples has come to fashionable fruition.

For he who is hard to buy for, we would warrant that an Asuwere subscription is the perfect Christmas gift. Thoughtful, a little unexpected and ultimately something that will get everyday use, what could be better? The team makes it super easy to transfer or swap an item if that month’s one isn’t quite right, and free cancellation is available any time — so there’s really no downside. There’s even a specific Summer Gift Pack, designed to give a taste of the full service over the course of three months.

Those unsure about sizing can pay a visit to Asuwere’s flagship store in Commercial Bay, where every item is available to try. Can’t make it in person? Book a virtual fitting with one of the team, where all your questions can be answered.

So go on, give the gift of great style to a man in your life.

To celebrate Asuwere’s fantastic offering, we have a $1000 wardrobe of instant classics, plus a 6-month subscription, to give away to one lucky Denizen — worth a total of $2000. The $1000 bundle includes a Linen Blazer, Linen Pants, Pima Tee and Leather Low Sneakers.

This competition is now closed.

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
Frida Kahlo: The Complete Paintings.

The best books to gift this Christmas, according to leading booksellers

This Christmas will be one for the history books. No pressure, then, when it comes to selecting the perfect present.

If you are lost for ideas, a meaningful book will fill in the gaps for you. Here Auckland’s leading booksellers share the novels and tomes worth a place under the Christmas tree.

Chloe Blades — Unity Books, Auckland CBD
Just in case my husband reads this, Taschen have published Frida Kahlo: The Complete Paintings and it includes pieces that were once lost or haven’t been exhibited in over 80 years. Its XXL size means I can perch it at the end of the dinner table and pretend she’s a Christmas guest. Or, you could hibernate on Christmas Day with Lauren Groff’s The Matrix; her proof proved to be so popular among the Unity team the pages look like they’ve been hit by a high powered wind turbine. Paired with Megan Dunn’s exceptional essays in Things I Learned At Art School, you’re onto a Christmas win. 

Helen Wadsworth — Dorothy Butler Bookshop, Ponsonby
I am excited about a new book by Gavin Bishop out this month. It’s called Atua: Māori Gods and Heroes — and portrayed in Gavin’s unique and beautiful way, the gods and heroes of Māori mythology and legend. I think that every New Zealand family should have one of these to pore over at home. A perfect Christmas gift!

Jenna Todd — Time Out Bookstore, Mount Eden
I would recommend gifting any book written by a New Zealand author, bought from a New Zealand bookshop. We have an incredible literary community here in Aotearoa and these books and stores need to be shared! Such as: Things I Learned at Art School by Megan Dunn — the perfect gift for anyone creative, especially if they had an eighties childhood. 

Greta & Valdin by Rebecca K. Reilly — a Māori/Russian/queer/Auckland rom-com. It’s so funny, I loved it! Uprising by Nic Low — for anyone from or who lives in Te Wai Pounamu, or for readers who love an adventure story and a MUST READ if you’re Kāi Tahu. 

Carole Beu — The Women’s Bookshop, Ponsonby
Several of my favourite authors have new books out and I’ll be recommending these for Christmas. Sarah Winman who wrote When God Was a Rabbit and Tin Man, has just published Still Life, a marvellous novel set predominantly in Florence. She writes vivid characters who are capable of loving each other with generosity and acceptance.

Bel Canto by Ann Patchett is one of my all-time favourite novels. Ann is publishing, in time for Christmas, an inspiring collection of autobiographical essays called These Precious Days. I loved their wisdom and compassion. Elizabeth Strout, famous for the extraordinary novels Olive Kitteridge and Olive, Again, has a new one out as well: Oh, William! All I can say is “Oh Elizabeth, you’ve done it again”!

Andrew Maben — Novel, Herne Bay
My pick for Christmas gifts this year is any of the gorgeous Assouline Travel series. We have all been starved of travel for too long, plus they look amazing on the coffee table. I haven’t got a favourite, I love them all.

Olivia Spooner — The Booklover Bookshop, Milford
Many New Zealanders have a love affair with gardening and exploring beautiful gardens around the country. A perfect Christmas gift for them (and wannabe gardeners like myself) would be In the Company of Gardeners – Inspirational Gardens and Inspired Gardeners of New Zealand. It contains gorgeous photography and entertaining stories about the origin, inspiration, and development of some of the most magnificent gardens throughout NZ.

David Peirse — Dear Reader, Grey Lynn
Our Christmas catalogue details about 100 book gifts across a range of genres as the appeal of a book is such a personal thing. I’m looking forward to reading Jonathan Franzen’s Crossover, and Amor Towles’ latest, The Lincoln Highway. I’m expecting beautiful writing within respectively, a family drama set in 70s USA, and a comic travel novel. Also, a plug for Michael Cullen’s biography, an incisive and enjoyable overview of NZ politics and labour party thinking since the 70s and a portrait of a very bright, thoughtful and generous spirit. Still Life by Sarah Winman is a sumptuous book full of empathy and wit.

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Pumpkin armchair from Ligne Roset.

Go full circle with curved chairs, the furniture trend we can’t get enough of

Comfortable and inviting, what could be better than a round chair to curl up in? The circular shape can work to bring contrast and interest to a room; when juxtaposed with more structured lines a round chair can soften a space, or echo other round shapes like lighting, mirrors or sculptures.

Bonacina 1889 Palla chair from ECC, Ottoman armchair from Ligne Roset.
Riva 1920 Maui chair from Matisse, Moooi Bart armchair from ECC.
Gubi Croissant lounge chair from Cult Design, Pumpkin armchair from Ligne Roset.

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