The season for Christmas and end-of-year celebrations is well and truly upon us, and in light of that, we thought it prudent to deliver a refresher course on dress codes. Whether you’ve been invited to a formal affair (where nothing but floor-length will do) or a more casual, al fresco party (where fun, flirty styles are encouraged), we have curated an essential sartorial guide to see you through the party season ahead in fine style.
01. Black Tie Gala
Break out your floor-length frocks for the most formal occasions of the season. To truly do justice to a black-tie dresscode, only the most exquisite gowns and head-turning jewels will do. This is no time to be a wallflower.
IMPERIAL GARDENS ROYAL BLUE SAPPHIRE RING from Sutcliffe
VALENTINO Paillette-embellished maxi skirt from Net-a-Porter
02. Formal Affair
If the occasion calls for something formal but not quite black tie, the perfect look can be found in flattering, tailored separates, timeless accessories and a monochromatic palette.
Jimmy Choo x Jean Paul Gaultier Wedge 110 from Jimmy Choo
03. Daytime Soirée
For garden parties, long lunches, afternoon drinks and everything in between, opt for a look that is flowy and festive. Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan on staying out once the sun goes down.
Jimmy Choo Summer 23
VALENTINO GARAVANI Rockstud ballet flats from net-a-porter
If you’re invited to a convivial party, with dancefloors and DJs, strobe lights and disco balls, choose a look that is flirty and fun. We’re talking eye-catching sparkles, micro minis and killer stilettos.
Sip on your favourite tipple in style with a sleek, elegant look for the occasion. Here, opt for a unique take on the classic slip dress, and pair with statement accessories and simple, strappy shoes.
As we enter the final month of 2023, there is plenty to sink your teeth into in the cultural space, from live music to comedy shows, plays, ballets and more. Whether you want to get into the festive spirit or are simply seeking your final fix of culture before the end of the year, here is our guide to everything to book tickets to in December.
Concerts By Candlelight: Christmas Classics
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with the upcoming, Christmas-themed Concerts by Candlelight. Across two concerts in December, one on Saturday the 9th (at the Presbyterian Church St Luke’s by the Real Entertainment String Quartet, directed by Anna-Marie Alloway), the other on Thursday the 21st (at Holy Trinity in Parnell by the Kulios String Quartet), these events will capture the magic of Christmas. Attendees will be able to enjoy captivating musical performances featuring timeless scores from films like Love Actually and Home Alone, alongside other festive classics. Promising an unforgettable experience that perfectly blends the spirit of the season with the elegance of live orchestral arrangements, these Concerts by Candlelight are not to be missed! See here for more information and to book.
Matt Corby
Matt Corby
Australian multi-platinum-selling singer-songwriter (and universal heart-throb) Matt Corby is heading back to New Zealand to play one show only tonight at The Powerstation. Set to be an unmissable show in one of the best venues, this is one you’ll want to try to secure tickets if you can. See here for more information and to book.
Christ! What a Night!
Delight in the holiday hilarity of Christ! What a Night! by internet and comedy personalities Chris Parker and Tom Sainsbury. This festive twist on the classic nativity story unfolds at the struggling Bethlehem Motor Inn, promising uproarious laughter as owners Mathew-Mark and Lucan John navigate a Christmas crisis. A blend of Kiwi comedy and Christmas charm, the play stars Parker and Sainsbury alongside a cast of some of New Zealand’s brightest talents. Don’t miss this campy cult hit that sold out in Christchurch and is set to dazzle in its return season. On from the 12th until the 16th of December at Q Theatre, see here for more information and to book.
Home Alone
Outdoor film screening: Home Alone in Aotea Square
Embrace the holiday spirit with a free screening of John Hughes’ timeless Christmas classic, Home Alone, at Aotea Square’s Outdoor Cinema on the Auckland Live Digital Stage. Join Macaulay Culkin’s character, Kevin, in his hilarious escapades as he defends his home from burglars with ingenious booby traps. Arrive early, secure your spot, and indulge in drinks and delicious treats from Container in the Square — the perfect evening under the stars for the whole family. See here for more information.
Concert By Candlelight Tchaikovsky & Ballet
Concert By Candlelight: Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake and more, with ballet
Experience the magic of live music in an extraordinary setting at the Candlelight Concert in Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell. Set to take place on Thursday the 21st of December, this incredible performance will feature renditions of timeless melodies from the likes of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake and other ballet classics performed by the Kulios String Quartet. Offering a serene ambience, enhanced by candlelight, the stage will be set for a 65-minute performance, featuring special guest appearances by accomplished ballerinas. Secure your tickets for an unforgettable evening where classical music and ballet come together in a unique and awe-inspiring way. See here for more information and to book.
The War on Drugs
The War on Drugs
Get ready for an electrifying comeback as The War On Drugs’ returns Down Under this month with a highly-anticipated tour (featuring the sensational Spoon and Indigo Sparke) set to ignite stages across Australia and New Zealand. Supporting the band’s latest album, I Don’t Live Here Anymore, the tour comes to Auckland’s Spark Arena on Saturday the 2nd of December and promises an unforgettable experience into the band’s signature rock and roll synthesis, led by Grammy-winning Adam Granduciel. See here for more information and to book tickets.
APO 4 Kids Christmas
Gather the whole family for a festive celebration at Auckland Philharmonia’s Family Christmas Concerts, taking place both on Saturday the 9th of December at Auckland Town Hall (with one session at 10am and another at 11:30am), and Sunday the 17th of December at Bruce Mason Centre in Takapuna (with one session at 10am and another at 11:30am). Tailored to the youngest music lovers, this special series of events promises a joyful hour of music, singing and hands-on activities for little ones. Embrace the holiday spirit together in a fun-filled and interactive atmosphere that will delight the children as much as it will the parents. See here for more information and to book now.
The Sound of Music
The Sound of Music
Experience the timeless magic of The Sound of Music this December at the ASB Waterfront Theatre, courtesy of Encore Theatre Collective. This beloved musical, captivating audiences for over six decades, recounts the heartwarming story of Maria and the von Trapp family. Filled with cherished classics like ‘Climb Ev’ry Mountain’ and ‘Edelweiss,’ the production promises enchanting performances from a stellar cast of talented young performers. Blending beautiful costumes, glorious music and the enduring charm of a universal classic, this production is not to be missed. On from the 8th until the 10th of December, see here for more information and to book tickets.
Hansel & Gretel RNZB
Hansel & Gretel RNZB
Embark on a mesmerising visual journey into the enchanting realm of Hansel & Gretel with the Royal New Zealand Ballet’s upcoming production. This fantastical show, drawing inspiration from silent movies and vaudeville, promises a magical experience with cinematic effects and original music. Follow Hansel and Gretel through a whimsical forest, pirouette with forest fairies and enter the Gingerbread House at the Witching Hour for a delectable and slightly sinister treat. On now in Auckland until the 9th of December, this ballet is a must-see for those craving a unique and deliciously theatrical experience. See here for more information and to book tickets.
APO Celebrate Christmas
On Friday the 15th and Saturday the 16th of December, the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra will put on two incredible shows at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell in its annual celebration of the festive season. Join conductor Leonard Weiss, tenor Frederick Jones, and the Graduate Choir New Zealand for this Yuletide celebration, where the orchestra will enchant the audience with selections from Rimsky-Korsakov’s Christmas Eve Suite and Handel’s Messiah, alongside a line-up of beloved Christmas carols. This cherished event promises joyous music fit for the season, creating a special holiday experience for the whole family. See here for more information and to buy tickets.
With the long-awaited summer well and truly on our doorstep, it is time to start finessing our outdoor spaces to prepare them for plenty of use over the coming months. Of course, one place we always turn to in our pursuit of perfect furnishings is ECC, where the selection of outdoor accoutrements and furniture is vast and varied. Here, in a bid to help you curate a cosy and convivial outdoor space, we have rounded up a selection of our favourite pieces from ECC to buy before summer really kicks in.
Having dedicated her life to studying nutrition (holding a PhD in the area) and working privately with her clients to improve their lives and long-term vitality, Sarah Mitchell Weston carries a veritable wealth of knowledge, particularly in the realm of gut health. Bringing a fresh and scientifically-considered approach to her clients’ care, Mitchell Weston is an expert at optimising health through nutrition via whole foods, careful supplementation and nurturing in her clients a healthy relationship with the food they eat. Realistic, long-term and personalised, her programmes are known to be life-changing, and now, Mitchell Weston is taking her influence in this space one step further with her newly launched collagen and supplement brand, Prochaine. Harnessing the power of marine collagen in conjunction with a unique French melon concentrate, Prochaine’s Collagen Beauty Blend is unlike others of its kind for the way it both supports collagen production and mitigates collagen breakdown — a dual action effect that makes it a powerful addition to any daily health regimen.
Here, we sit down with Sarah Mitchell Weston to talk about how to optimise our health and nutrition, and why Prochaine might just be the key step our beauty routines have been missing.
Exclusive Q&A
How did you get involved in the health and nutrition space? I’ve always been fascinated by diets and nutrition, maybe a product of growing up in the 80s (my mother tried every single diet conceived in that decade). But it wasn’t until my father passed suddenly at 52 (his poor diet and lifestyle had led to morbid obesity, type 2 diabetes, and eventually a lethal stroke) that a light went on, and my future direction became clear. Determined not to follow his example, I switched my university degree from archaeology to physiology and sports science, specialising in human nutrition postgrad. My passion for the subject only grew, and after a number of years in nutrition research, I launched my own private practice, Belle Époque Nutrition.
What are some key aspects of health and nutrition that people often get wrong? I’d describe most people as overwhelmed, and that’s where they start to go wrong. There is so much conflicting information. We’re influenced by trends on social media and forever pursuing a quick fix. But when it comes to health and nutrition, there is almost never a ‘quick fix’ — trust me. Our health is a product of day to day choices, and it can take time to unravel destructive habits and replace them with nurturing ones. Another thing people sometimes get wrong is the pursuit of an ‘all or nothing’ approach to diet and exercise. It’s unsustainable, can lead to burnout and is the reason why dieting doesn’t work. Balancing hard work with self care will get you there eventually.
Prochaine’s Collagen Beauty Blends
What are the health habits you personally live by? Three things: movement, eating plants, and quality sleep. I move daily. I’m not talking about seven days a week gym attendance, but engaging in daily, purposeful movement. Increasingly, research and experience is showing us that regular exercise is not just for aesthetics or fitness; it is crucial for cognitive and emotional health and longevity. Walking, cycling, playing with your kids (dog in my case), dancing, yoga are all ways to incorporate more movement into your daily life. I also eat plants every day. This can sometimes be harder than you think if you don’t plan ahead: make sure that at least your breakfast includes fruit and/or veg. Choose plant-forward options when shopping and dining out. And quality sleep — I can’t stress how essential this is for all facets of health and wellbeing.
Let’s talk gut. What do people need to understand about this complex area of health? The gastrointestinal (GI) system is linked to literally every other organ and health system in your body. If you don’t look after your gut, there can be serious consequences for cardiovascular health, mental health, skin health and hormone production — to name a few. Gut health is quite complex, yes. There is no real definition of a ‘healthy gut’, as no two gut microbiomes are the same. And gut health is not strictly limited to the functionality of the microbiome, one needs to also consider the health of other GI organs such as the liver, for example. That being said, there are still some general principles everyone should try to follow to ensure optimal gut function. Eat probiotic foods every day — these include live culture yoghurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir. Eat prebiotic foods every day — these are usually high fibre foods, but specifically veggies like artichoke, garlic, onions, chicory. Eat a diverse range of plant foods — up to 30 different types per week. Additionally, limit intake of things that reduce the health and function of your gut and liver. These might include excess alcohol, sugar, ultra-processed foods, smoking/vaping, emulsifiers and artificial sweeteners. If you are experiencing symptoms such as IBS, inflammation, skin outbreaks, poor mood and suspect your gut health has something to do with it, look at what you are and aren’t feeding your gut and change this first. If you are confused about what you need personally, come and talk to me and my team, we specialise in gut health.
What inspired you to launch Prochaine? I’ve taken a lot of supplements over the years, and as such spent time studying the industry and efficacy of nutraceuticals: I have learned how unregulated the system is. It’s alarming how little research there is behind common claims, and in some cases the low quality and efficacy of many products in the market. I was motivated to launch a brand that could confidently claim each product was backed by strong scientific evidence, while also including only high quality ingredients at effective doses.
What sets Prochaine apart from other collagen powders on the market today? First and foremost, the dual action of the ingredients we’ve selected. Our endogenous collagen stores are a result of collagen going in and collagen out. Filling up your collagen stores with collagen is necessary, especially as we age, but not as effective if you are not taking into account collagen ‘leaks’. And free radical damage is a major collagen leak. For Prochaine, we not only sourced a very high quality hydrolysed marine collagen powder for everyday supplementation, but paired this with Holimel® French melon concentrate, a powerful antioxidant that reduces collagen breakdown in the skin. This stuff is pretty special.
Not all collagen powders are created equal. How can people sort the wheat from the chaff, so to speak? Consider three things: quantity, source and supporting ingredients. Quantity is important for efficacy: generally speaking, a daily dose of between 8-10g collagen is ideal. Source: marine collagen is hands down the superior collagen source compared to bovine or porcine in terms of absorption and bioavailability, and generally, is a more sustainable choice too. Supporting ingredients: are they proven to aid collagen production or are they just unnecessary fillers at microscopic doses? And are the essential ones included? In particular, two vital cofactors are vitamin C and zinc. Even a mild deficiency in these essential nutrients will impair collagen synthesis. Taking a collagen supplement without these cofactors renders it basically just another protein powder.
How has Prochaine helped you? I am in the age zone where a daily collagen supplement is noticeably beneficial. I now take it daily, and the main thing I’ve noticed is significantly more hydrated and younger looking skin . Basically my skin is now in appreciably better condition than it was a year ago when we launched our first product. Prochaine has become an essential part of my daily routine. As a bonus, the inclusion of vitamin C and zinc in the Collagen Beauty Blend has definitely played a role in preventing illness — I haven’t had a single cold or flu this year.
As we approach the end of the year and yet another summer season (this time, hopefully, with some actual sun involved) we have been reflecting on 2023, and looking forward, with cautious optimism to 2024. The last 11 months have served up a number of challenges, both here and around the world, and while it has certainly been a tough time for many of us, there is still much to be excited about as we look to the future.
Our new Summer Issue taps into the idea of promise, potential and the power of new beginnings. On the cover, pregnant Kiwi supermodel Georgia Fowler emerges from a landscape like a modern Venus, while inside the magazine she talks in our exclusive interview about modelling, motherhood, and her imminent move to New York.
Another inspiring person to whom we spoke in this issue is skincare entrepreneur Emma Lewisham, whose eponymous skincare line is taking the world by storm for its groundbreaking circularity and ethos of sustainability. She sits alongside other notable names on our pages, including prolific designer Rodolfo Dordoni and iconic Chinese couturier Guo Pei (who designed Rihanna’s 2015 yellow Met Gala dress and has an exhibition opening at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki very soon).
Those seeking some immediate inspiration for the Christmas season will find plenty of it in our curated Christmas Gift Guide, guaranteed to help you find the perfect gift no matter how discerning the recipient. While those looking for more long-term inspiration should turn to the back of the magazine to find, in our Navigator section, a line-up of tropical island escapes to book for next year’s holidays.
For anyone wanting to ensure their wardrobe remains seasonally sound, there is a raft of new fashion in our Coveted section, alongside a thorough guide to party dressing for anyone staring down the barrel of a busy silly season. Similarly, our Design pages are full of the latest interior and architectural trends and plenty of creative ideas for those wanting to update their spaces.
In Gastronomy, our Editor-in-chief outlines a plethora of occasion-based dining recommendations, from where to go for a romantic date, to where to take a rowdy crowd. It even includes the best places to dine with children in tow.
And if keeping up with the latest and greatest trends in the health and skincare space piques your interest, our Wellbeing section is bursting with new products, compelling trends and advice from experts in their field, like nutritionist Sarah Mitchell-Weston (of Belle Époque Nutrition and Prochaine collagen) and Sarah Reid (of Embodyme).
As always, keep an eye out for our QR codes, located in the corners of most pages. By simply scanning the code with your phone camera and clicking on the link, you will be taken directly to our curated edit of shoppable pieces and stories from the magazine.
Out now, our Summer Issue has been carefully compiled to showcase that, despite the hardships of the last year, there are still a number of people and brands doing interesting, innovative, creative, unique and compelling things. We think that points to a promising future. We hope you do too. Happy Holidays Denizens!
Our inspiring new Summer Issue is available at all good newsagents and supermarkets.
As the holiday season fast approaches, our pursuit of the perfect gift escalates. Increasingly, we find ourselves searching for gifts that are not only thoughtful and useful, but ones that have the all-important X-factor — a certain je ne sais quoi that goes above and beyond to offer a memorable experience too. It is in pursuit of this, that we find ourselves turning to Johnnie Walker Blue Label, an unparalleled masterpiece offering an experience that transcends the ordinary, making it the quintessential gift for the whisky enthusiast or epicurean in your life.
For anyone unfamiliar, in the realm of Scotch whisky, Johnnie Walker Blue Label reigns supreme. Comprised of a complex and compelling blend of some of Scotland’s rarest whiskies, this drop is an undisputed icon, each bottle boasting a unique quality, character and flavour that has given it an unrivalled, signature taste. In fact, the whiskies that makeup Johnnie Walker Blue Label are meticulously handpicked from distilleries all over Scotland (including coveted barrels from long-closed ‘ghost’ distilleries) and are rigorously tested for taste and quality, with only 1 in 10,000 casks making the cut. It is a decidedly exclusive and discerning spirit, designed for those who value rarity, craftsmanship and quality above all else.
And while anyone can appreciate a bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label from the outside, imbibe a sip of the golden liquid and you’ll understand the magic that this particular mix delivers. Its blend sees aged whiskies with gravitas and complexity collide with vibrant, younger varieties, offering a depth of flavour that is layered and intriguing.
On the palate, Johnnie Walker Blue Label makes a strong first impression with waves of spice that give way to smooth vanilla and honey. This is followed by notes of caramel and hazelnut that coarse through rich, dark chocolate before a luxuriously strong and smoky finish swoops in to deliver a warming, sumptuous finale. A drink as good as Johnnie Walker Blue Label need not be tampered with, so enjoy it neat and after a glass of ice-cold water to prepare the palate perfectly. The only thing that could make it better is good company, of course.
So, whether you’re looking for something for the person who loves to entertain, for a whisky-lover or simply a gourmand who truly appreciates the finer things in life, Johnnie Walker Blue Label ticks all the boxes. Its rare qualities and renowned reputation have given it the top spot on our wishlists this year, and the exclusive cache that surrounds it will make it the perfect gift for someone special.
On Wednesday night, we invited a group of discerning denizens down to the waterfront to celebrate Auckland’s promising future. Alongside Winton CEO, Chris Meehan, we unveiled the full-scale plans for Cracker Bay, an impressive new precinct that will take shape along Auckland’s waterfront and comprise a multi-faceted hospitality offering, exclusive event venues, a private yacht club and an extension of the Westhaven boardwalk, as well as a full reimagining of the marina (allowing space for larger boats to berth).
It is an eye-watering undertaking for Winton, who conceived Cracker Bay in response to Aucklanders’ desire for developments that would make the most of our proximity to the water in a thoughtful, considered and timeless way. As such, Cracker Bay will revolutionise our relationship with the waterfront, and offer the kind of dining and event destination that our city has been sorely missing.
Given the ways in which this new precinct points to Auckland’s potential and promise, it felt fitting to be celebrating it alongside Denizen’s new summer issue, at the heart of which lies the idea of ‘promise’. With Georgia Fowler gracing the cover and the pages filled with people and brands doing interesting, creative and daring things, it is an issue that shows how, even through the toughest times, innovation and inspiration prevail.
Ultimately, it was a night of looking ahead and raising a glass to Auckland’s exciting future, which was made all the more delicious thanks to a selection of Bayside Rum cocktails and tasty bites from Savor Group. There is, it seems, much to be positive about as we approach the new year; and given that Denizen has long celebrated those in this city who are working tirelessly to propel Auckland’s progress, we are excited to continue to showcase its evolution and team up with people who believe in the promise of this place as much as we do.
“Coming from Bombay, I was drawn to the idea of cooking the food I grew up with, where I had the chance to learn from my mum and aunty, as well as other members of my family, to cook and most importantly — enjoy food,” says Vicky Shah of his new appointment as head chef at Home Spice, a meal subscription service that delivers exceptional, elevated South Asian cuisine to homes across Auckland in traditional dabba boxes.
“Our menus are inspired by the dishes my mother taught me at home and the meals we would share around the table. When conceptualising our weekly offering, I focus on highlighting the diverse culinary traditions of various regions in India and South Asia, ensuring that the dishes complement one another seamlessly.” continues Shah. And we can attest to the fact that Shah is doing a diversity of dishes an incredible justice, marrying his experience in the kitchens of Kol and Cassia with his upbringing spent surrounded by the South East’s rich culinary culture to create exceptional fare for Home Spice’s loyal legions.
The inspiration for Home Spice came from the legendary Dabbawalas of Mumbai, who have long provided a lunch delivery service to ravenous office workers in the populous Indian city, transporting reusable dabbas (stainless steel lunch boxes) filled to the brim with nourishing, home-cooked meals. With the Dabbawalas famed for their reliability and dedication to the job through the most treacherous conditions (from monsoons to riots), this innovative food delivery system inspired Aucklander Jaimee Croot to conceive a local version of her very own.
Dishing up authentic Indian cuisine inspired by the region’s vast and varied flavours, Home Spice’s meals are available for delivery to suburban Auckland doorsteps. Encased in dabbas, once emptied, the vessels can be exchanged for a fresh new set of delicious meals each week — a sustainable solution to the excess packaging often associated with home food boxes.
Each delivery consists of four stackable, oven-safe tins, the bottom filled with rice, the second curry, the third dal, and the fourth chutney. Essentially a full meal for two people (or two meals for one), recipients can conveniently heat the rice, curry and dal tins in the oven. There’s also an option to add on roti, which, if you ask us is an essential addition to any South Asian feast.
Shah and the team curate a new menu each week based on what’s in season, with delivery taking place on Tuesdays. All of the vibrant, flavourful meals are vegetarian and you can expect the likes of saffron and almond pulao rice paired with tandoori paneer and cauliflower tikka masala, white lentil dal, and cashew and coriander chutney.
Building on their already impressive offering, Home Spice have teamed up with the experts at Everyday Wine to offer the perfect natural wine pairing to compliment Shah’s weekly creations. The wine will be either white, rosé, orange, or red, based on what will complement best, and will come in a reusable bottle, which, when combined with the stainless steel dabba’s makes for an entirely packaging-free (and entirely delicious) meal.
Ultimately, whether you’re after a decision-free dinner, craving a new take on South Asian cuisine, or desire a wholesome meal with wine to match, Home Spice has you covered. Orders close on a Sunday evening the week before delivery, and the dabbas are delivered every Tuesday. You can opt for a one-off trial, a weekly subscription, or simply select your desired frequency. The more the merrier, we say. Sign up here.
The closer we get to December, the more Christmas is on our minds (and agendas). And while much of the joy of Christmas can become lost to admin like gift organisation and holiday planning, the festive period is a great time to get creative. Reminding us of exactly that is Savor Group, who is promising to bring the fun back into our Christmas preparations with a Wreath Making Workshop, set to take place on Saturday, the 2nd of December.
Held at the iconic Seafarers Rooftop, this workshop promises more than just a crafty afternoon. Here, Savor has teamed up with Vida Flores, renowned for its floral expertise, and Moët & Chandon, a Champagne synonymous with convivial opulence.
The workshop will take place from 11 am until 2 pm and is designed to guide participants through the intricate process of crafting a Christmas wreath. The materials, including a sturdy frame, wire, and an assortment of lush green foliage, will have those in attendance tapping into their creative potential to produce veritable masterpieces to hang proudly on their front doors.
In addition to recieving wreath expertise, guests will be welcomed with a crisp flute of Moët & Chandon, followed by a refreshing Belvedere Spritz, setting the tone for a day of indulgence. There will also be a number of culinary delights on hand in the form of a light lunch, each course meticulously crafted by the Ebisu team. The whole event offers a fusion of floral artistry and gastronomic pleasures, making it the perfect prelude to the festive season.
Sp, for those who love the festive pomp and ceremony of Christmas but are seeking a break from the conventional holiday routine of shopping, wrapping and packing, secure a coveted spot at Savor’s Wreath Making Workshop now, and take home your very own, beautiful wreath (as well as a new skill set to boot). Tickets are $250 per person, and there is limited availability so we recommend getting in while you can. Book here.
The Ayrburn story started over 150 years ago, when an expansive piece of land set against a striking, mountainous backdrop was purchased by Scottish-born William Paterson. It was turned into one of the first farms in the area, and remained a successful wheat, sheep and dairy operation until the early 21st Century. Over the years, it evolved to incorporate a striking homestead, woolshed, stables, a cart shed and dairy, each addition enhancing its charm. Now, after a series of meticulous renovations and painstaking restorations to the original buildings (in order to carefully maintain their original features), Ayrburn is poised to reopen as New Zealand’s most exciting new dining destination, courtesy of local developers Winton.
The new Ayrburn exists at the intersection of heritage and innovation. While the old farm buildings remain, they now serve to house a series of exceptional hospitality venues that will offer visitors a vast array of experiences. Officially open to the public from the ninth of December, Ayrburn is shaping up to be unlike any other dining precinct in the country, not only for its spectacular setting but also for the sheer breadth of its offering. From The Woolshed, where diners can order hearty and delicious, family-friendly meals by an open fire, to The Burr Bar, an intimate, calm and luxurious space in which drinks with friends will take on a decidedly elevated vibe, to The Manure Room, dubbed a ‘haven for wine lovers,’ and offering a more relaxed atmosphere and specialty wine tastings of Ayrburn’s own wine range, there truly is something here for any taste or proclivity.
Even those harbouring a sweet tooth will find everything they need at Ayrburn’s The Dairy, a destination filled with whimsical sweet treats that promise to hit the spot every time. While those who simply want to take in the peaceful setting with a coffee or wine in hand, or even with a picnic, can do so at The Dell, Ayrburn’s central, social lawn that will become something of a gathering space, as well as playing host to markets and other community events.
The venues mentioned above will be open in December, while in 2024, Ayrburn will add another four to its hospitality lineup, including Billy’s, its flagship fine dining restaurant, The Bakehouse, a casual drop-in where visitors can enjoy fresh coffee, pastries, pizza and more in an alfresco, garden setting, R.M. Specialty Meats, a traditional butchery selling the finest line-up of epicurean meats, and The Barrel Room, an exclusive, candle-litspace that can be booked for private functions and gatherings.
Overseen by industry leaders, from Executive Chef Richard Highnam to Master of Wine Sophie Parker-Thompson (who has worked with winemaker Jody Pagey to bring expertise to Ayrburn’s award-winning wine range, served exclusively on site), Ayrburn’s many venues have been thoughtfully brought to life with the goal of offering something truly unique and memorable.
As Winton’s CEO, Chris Meehan says, “An incredible amount of time has gone into making sure Ayrburn will be a place for great times. It embodies our commitment to celebrating the stories of the past by giving them a new future… Ayrburn is not just a destination, it’s an invitation to have fun and experience the best of New Zealand’s food, wine and hospitality in a place chosen 160 years ago for being one of the country’s most stunning locations.”
Indeed, looking across Ayrburn’s historic buildings, set against the dramatic Central Otago backdrop that has, since time immemorial, endeared visitors to this place, it’s clear that this dining destination is out of the ordinary.
Winton’s design team have created some of the best interiors and gardens seen in the region, with Ayrburn humming with history even as it leads New Zealand’s hospitality scene into the future. Sit in any one of its many venues (like The Manure Room, allegedly once used by tipplers to evade the authorities during prohibition) under the carefully-preserved, barn-like roofs, surrounded by an extensive collection of New Zealand art, and you’ll feel the special energy of the place. From its majestic, postcard views of the Remarkables and Coronet Peak to its perfectly manicured grounds where mature trees sit alongside a natural stream that winds through the outdoor tables, Ayrburn is a place where exceptional food, great wine and good times collide in one of the most spectacular settings in the world.
Sure to become a hive of activity as soon as it opens, and the scene of many memorable occasions to come, Ayrburn is exactly where you should find yourself the next time you head to Queenstown and its idyllic surrounds. “We wanted to create a destination where locals and visitors alike could spend the day with friends and family, to simply enjoy being together over world-class food and wine,” Meehan reiterates. A simple goal, executed perfectly, plan your visit now.
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