Left to right: Bar Magda, Liquid Lightening & Hello Beasty

From delicious new menus to cocktail specials, October’s Dining Guide has everything to eat, drink and enjoy this month

The weather might be a mixed bag at the moment but every day in October is one day closer to summer, and that’s something that we think is worth celebrating. What is also worth celebrating is the sheer number of delicious foodie events and goings-on taking place over the next month. From birthday specials to outstanding new menus to various high teas, degustations, whisky events and more, this is Denizen’s comprehensive October Dining Guide — where to eat, drink and be merry this month.

Brewfest at Harbour Eats

Celebrate all things craft beer at Commercial Bay’s one-day-only festival in Harbour Eats this October. On Saturday the 7th of October from 12pm until 6pm, Harbour Eats will become alive of activity thanks to Brewfest, where live music, German food and snacks from a range of Harbour Eats vendors and an array of New Zealand craft beer will collide in what is shaping up to be a decidedly convivial day. For beer lovers, purveyors like Sawmill, Three Sisters, Garage Project, Morningcider, Yeastie Boys, Urbanaut and Deep Creek will be popping up at Public Drinks Co in Harbour Eats to offer tastings and pours of all their best brews. But even if beer isn’t your thing, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious food and fun entertainment, all while soaking up the lively atmosphere. Tickets for Brewfest are $40 per person and can be bought here.

Alumni 2.0 at Culprit

Get ready to celebrate seven years of Culprit’s delicious and boundary-pushing cuisine as Chef Kyle Street welcomes a raft of friends and former colleagues into his kitchen for an unmissable, one-night-only event. Taking place on Wednesday the 25th of October, Alumni 2.0 will see chefs Des Harris (of The Hilton, ex-Clooney), Shepherd Elliot (of Shepherd, Concord), Otis Schapiro (of Lilian and Schapiros), Swati Korabu (of Bossi, Liam King (ex-Depot and Logan Brown) and of course, Kyle Street & Robertta Young (of Culprit) coming together to present a spectacular six-course degustation menu with beverage matches. There will be two sittings at 5:30pm and 8:30pm, tickets are $199 per person and can be secured here. (Given this epic line-up, we expect these to go fast so secure your spot now.)

Ante Social

A Brooklyn-meets-Shibuya speakeasy has landed on Ponsonby Road

Set behind the recognisable doors of Ponsonby Social Club’s sister bar, Ante Social, a whole new concept has taken shape. For the last six years, Ante Social has built something of a cult reputation for hosting underground DJs and bands and facilitating some of the best nights to be had in this city. But now, after a sleek makeover, the venue has taken on a new life as a Japanese-style listening bar. Think bohemian Brooklyn speakeasy meets the kind of audiophile music rooms you might find in Shibuya. “The Ante Social re-launch is providing Aucklanders with a much-needed gear change,” says Bobby Mukai, co-owner with Sharr Berzati. “We invite people to come in and live that international audiophile experience, with delicious beverages in hand and let us take them on a journey of music and cocktails.” Boasting record shelves designed by Luke King Design, filled with Mukai’s own personal collection, a musical programme dreamt up by ‘Godfather of Auckland’s DJ scene’ Manual Bundy, a sound system curated by the one and only Nathan Haines, a cocktail list inspired by New York and Japan and created by master mixologist Sahil Patel, and a food offering that will change every month, from Mexican to Filipino to Ethiopian and more, the new Ante Social truly has ascended to the kind of venue you would find in any world city. Lucky for us then that’s it’s right on our doorstep. If you’re looking for a watering hole this weekend, look no further.

High Tea in the Libraries at Hotel Britomart

High Tea in The Libraries at Hotel Britomart

Usually only accessible to guests staying at Hotel Britomart, The Libraries will be opening its doors for a High Tea event on Saturday the 28th of October, and it’s one you seriously don’t want to miss out on. An event in honour of Hotel Britomart’s third birthday, High Tea in The Libraries is promising to be a celebration of Aotearoa, featuring a menu of contemporary delicacies crafted by Hotel Britomart’s talented Head Chef, Andrew Lautenbach, who was inspired by some of his favourite childhood treats to craft a line-up that is set to take the idea of ‘high tea’ to a whole new level. Guests will be welcomed into The Libraries’ exquisite space with a glass of No1 Family Estate Assemblé, followed by a selection of teas from Zealong (New Zealand’s only commercial tea estate). From there, they will be treated to three leisurely courses featuring delightful savoury and sweet bites made using utterly delicious and sustainably sourced seasonal produce. Tickets for the High Tea are $95 per person, and there will be two sittings on the day, on at 12pm and one at 2:30pm. Set to be a popular event, we suggest booking your spot now.

New Menu Bar Magda

New Menu at Bar Magda

Carlo Buenaventura continues to delight us with his cutting-edge culinary creations at Bar Magda, where new-wave Filipino food takes centre stage in a flurry of unique and flavoursome fare. Now, Buenaventura has added a raft of exceptional new dishes to Bar Magda’s offering, with a new menu that looks set to take things to the next level. See more information here.

The Artist Conversation Afternoon Tea at Park Hyatt Auckland

Art lovers take note, Park Hyatt Auckland is set to host an afternoon of intriguing immersion into the remarkable world of Māori art with an afternoon tea and talk series by a raft of notable New Zealand artists. Taking place on Saturday the 14th of October from 2:30pm until 5pm, The Artist Conversation Afternoon Tea will be hosted by Sir Bob Harvey and features talks from the likes of Peata Larkin, Steve Dunlop and more. Allowing attendees to discover the beauty of the creative process while indulging in a specially curated afternoon tea, this event is one you don’t want to miss out on. Tickets are $75 per person and can be secured here.

Kingi

A Snapper Degustation at Kingi

At this unique, one-night-only degustation dinner, Kingi’s award-winning chef, Tom Hishon will shine a light on the humble snapper, harnessing its versatility to create five unforgettable courses that showcase this fish as you’ve likely never experienced it before. Using a different part of the snapper in each course, Hishon will demonstrate inventive techniques combined with local and seasonal produce to bring out a range of outstanding flavours and textures. From snapper crudo with nasturtium, apple and elderflower, to asparagus with snapper bacon and macadamia, the dishes on this menu are set to offer a culinary journey. Beyond the versatility of the snapper itself, its abundance in New Zealand waters makes it a favourite for any sustainability-focused menus (something that has long underpinned the culinary philosophy at Kingi), and to highlight this point, representatives from non-profit LegaSea will also be at this event, to briefly talk about their dedicated to restoring the abundance, biodiversity and health of New Zealand’s marine environment. They will also be announcing an exciting new product launch in partnership with Kingi and Critical Design. The dinner will take place on Wednesday the 25th of October, and tickets are $125 per person. Secure your spot here.

Laphroaig presents Tales of Peat, Salt and Fire

Laphroaig presents Tales of Peat, Salt and Fire

Iconic Scottish Whisky Laphroaig is teaming up with Kiwi culinary pioneer Rewi Spraggon (A.K.A The Hāngi Master) to put on a dinner at Mechanics Bay that you really don’t want to miss. There, exceptional whisky, mouthwatering food and convivial company will collide in an evening to remember. A must-do for whisky lovers and gourmands, Tales of Peat, Salt and Fire will take place on Saturday the 28th of October. More information and tickets can be found here.

A Pink Afternoon Tea at Park Hyatt Auckland

October is officially Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and so, in a show of solidarity and support Park Hyatt Auckland I hosting a “Steeped in Support” Pink Afternoon Tea in partnership with Breast Cancer Foundation NZ and Wiki’d Support. Taking place on Thursday 12th of October from 2pm until 5pm, this event invites guests to enjoy a four-course, pink-inspired afternoon tea, which includes a glass of rose and a take-home gift of tea towels from the Tea Towel Takeover. Also featuring a talk from Stephanie Wiki, a breast cancer survivor with an inspiring story and a silent auction, this is one very worthy occasion we would encourage everyone to book now. Tickets (available here) are $90 per person, and all proceeds will go directly to BCFNZ.

Month-Long Cocktail Special at Soul Bar & Bistro

Viaduct Harbour stalwart, Soul Bar & Bistro is giving October a decidedly convivial spin with its month-long cocktail special. This month, it’s the ultimate party cocktail — the Pornstar Martini — that is taking centre stage in a celebration that has seen Soul’s clever Bar Manager, Katie Cramphorn, create a variety of takes on the classic libation. For all the information about the cocktail celebration you don’t want to miss, see here.

Liquid Lightening Residency at Annabel’s

Liquid Lightening Residency at Annabel’s

Serving a raft of superfood-packed mood-boosting smoothies, fresh juices, yummy bites, bone broth and more, naturopath Grace Miller’s Liquid Lightening made a quick impact when it opened earlier this year in a temporary spot on Jervois Road, drawing crowds of people looking for something satiating that would actually benefit their health. But it was never to be a permanent thing, and its closure a few months ago left a smoothie-shaped hole in our hearts. So, you can imagine our excitement when we heard that Miller was bringing Liquid Lightening back for one month only with a residency at Annabel’s. Throughout October, on Fridays and Saturdays from 8am until 1pm, you’ll find Miller set up at Annabel’s slinging the smoothies you have been craving for so long. Here for a good time, not a long one, don’t miss out on what might be your last chance to get hold of Liquid Lightening’s liquid gold.

Hello Beasty

New Dishes at Hello Beasty

One of our absolute favourite Viaduct Harbour spots, Hello Beasty, has revealed a raft of delicious new additions to its flavoursome menu, now sitting alongside the classic dishes that have long drawn us into this exceptional waterfront spot. Some of the highlights include a fiery new Beasty Fried Chicken, seasoned with Sichuan chilli and served with coriander chimichurri and lemon, a plate of fresh, line-caught kingfish served with fermented ponzu, shio kombu, puffed rice and chives, and the utterly mouthwatering gua bao (a lovely little ‘baby’ bao that is the perfect taster) filled with miso-braised, grain-fed brisket, pickled sesame carrot, beetroot and coriander with chilli and lime sauce. All of these and more can be enjoyed with Hello Beasty icons like the KFC (Korean Fried Cauliflower), the Prawn and Crab Toast and the Katsu Sando. If you haven’t been to Hello Beasty in a while, consider this your sign to book a table STAT.

Special Edition Spiced Orange Syrup

Six Barrel Soda Teams Up with Everybody Eats

Wellington-based Six Barrel Soda has been crafting its delicious soda syrups since 2012, and has, since its inception, focused on using low-waste and reusable materials. Now, in what could be considered a perfect pairing, the brand has teamed up with Everybody Eats — the local charity on a mission to reduce food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand via pay-as-you-feel restaurants that use food that would otherwise go to waste. Together, Six Barrel Soda and Everybody Eats have launched a special edition Spiced Orange Syrup, a sustainable soda syrup made with zesty local oranges and spices, where the orange rinds have been donated by Moore Wilson’s where they are a byproduct of their fresh juice operation. The new Spiced Orange Syrup is available to purchase from selected stockists country-wide as well as online here, with $1 from every bottle sale going to Everybody Eats’ very worthy cause.

Andiamo’s Perrier-Jouët Lunch

Andiamo’s Perrier-Jouët Lunch Continues

The warmer, longer days we’ve been waiting for are almost here, so of course, it is to one of our favourite Herne Bay haunts that we flock. As beloved for its delicious food as it is for its coveted outdoor tables that get the best of the late afternoon sun, Andiamo is the perfect place to lock in a long lunch, particularly because of the special set lunch menu it is running with Perrier-Jouët that is available Wednesday through Sunday, from 12pm until 3pm until the end of October. There, for $69 per person, guests will be greeted with a glass of Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut, and invited to indulge in a delicious, two-course feast including their choice of entrée and main. That said, if a longer lunch is on the cards, sides like a mixed leaf salad or Andiamo’s famous potato fries can be added to the table for $10 a dish, similarly, those seeking to end their lunch on a sweet note can add the tiramisu to their order for an additional $10. Alongside the delectable food is a dedicated Perrier-Jouët Champagne menu of exquisite drops as the perfect accompaniment to any springtime lunch. From Perrier-Jouët’s Blason Rosé NV to its Blanc de Blancs NV to its iconic Belle Époque, 2014 (a truly rare and elegant Champagne), plus the option for diners to pre-book a bottle of Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut to be ready table side for the special price of $120, Andiamo’s Perrier-Jouët lunchtime menu is here for a good time, not a long one, so get in while you can.

Jervois Steak House

Wagyu Evening at Jervois Steak House

The September iteration of this event was a quick sell-out and for very good reason. Now, Jervois Steak House is back with another epic Wagyu Evening on Tuesday the 31st of October. Nestled in the cosy surrounds of JSH’s freshly refurbished dining room, guests are invited to enjoy a delectable, five-course menu designed by Executive Chef Gavin Doyle and designed to showcase the pinnacle of quality beef: Wagyu. There, a variety of Wagyu including the extremely renowned Japanese A5 Wagyu, will be on the menu, sourced from JSH’s esteemed Wagyu beef producers, who are masters in their craft. The exclusive wine partner for October’s event is Te Kairanga, with optional wine matches available to purchase on the night (something that is sure to take any experience to the next level). Book your spot here or by emailing Jervois Steak House here.

Gastronomy

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Kilaw of swordfish and scallop

Tantalising our tastebuds with its exceptional new-wave Filipino fare, these are the dishes you need to try from Bar Magda’s new menu

Carlo Buenaventura has long been dedicated to offering a dining experience with a difference at his cosy, Cross Street venue. In fact, Bar Magda has garnered quite a stellar reputation among local gourmands for its intriguing food that, on the one hand, is deeply rooted in traditional Filipino flavours, while on the other, is catered perfectly to the palette of the contemporary New Zealand diner. Buenaventura calls it ‘new wave Filipino,’ we call it delicious.

Now, Bar Magda has unveiled a raft of delicious new additions to its lauded menu, each one in keeping with Buenaventura’s aim of curating a unique experience that never feels stuffy. Here, the dishes are decidedly elevated but still accessible enough that you might also enjoy them at the bar with a beautiful glass of wine. These new dishes, Buenaventura tells us, mark the first instalment of Bar Magda’s full menu change, with other additions set to land in the coming months as new seasonal produce becomes available.

Left: Terrine of spiced ham ‘SPAM’  Right: Barbecue asparagus

Among the raft of new dishes, a few certainly stand out. One is the incredibly tasty Terrine of Spiced Ham, or what Buenaventura calls his take on ‘SPAM’, made with a secret spice mix, prosciutto, smoked pork hock, back fat and smoked ham. This is served with toast, pickled cucumber and crab-fat mayonnaise. Another is the Barbecue Green Asparagus, served with green miso, white anchovy and sauce Mirasol — a sauce that the Bar Magda team created with flavours of yellow peppers and coconut yoghurt. Here, a hint of savoury spice is paired perfectly with a burst of fresh acidity for a balanced and light dish.

There is also a Glazed Purple Carrot Ham, which is an interesting dish in which the purple carrots have been braised, smoked and lightly dehydrated to deliver a soft, chewy, ham-like texture. They are glazed with Bar Magda’s in-house sweet and spicy sauce that speaks to a fusion of Asian and American barbecue flavours, and is served with fresh goat’s cheese and crunchy snow peas.

Left: Magda pork and duck longaniza  Right: Smoked yams

Elsewhere, the 300g Magda Pork and Duck Longaniza is a Spanish sausage (similar to chorizo) made with sauerkraut (that has been charred and preserved with Filipino fish sauce ‘patis’), yellow mustard and seed sambal. Buenaventura tells me his team makes the base for this in-house before sending it to the experts at Grey Lynn Butchers, who do the final touches to create the perfect-looking sausage.

The Smoked and Pickled Black Yams are a delightful vegetable option, served with a slaw of kohlrabi and ginger, coconut bay leaf aioli and buttered pistachio, while we have our eyes on the Kilaw dish, which comprises raw swordfish and scallop dressed in pickled lemon and served with nashi pear and macapuno (a type of coconut endemic to the Philippines that is softer and naturally sweeter) and served carpaccio style.

From start to finish, Bar Magda’s new dishes truly are a delight for the senses. Unique, thoughtful, full of flavour and unlike anything else you’ll experience in this city, these new additions are giving us every excuse to book a table at Bar Magda immediately. And if you are still yet to try this stellar spot, consider this a sign.

Gastronomy

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Millionaire’s Pornstar

Soul Bar & Bistro has launched a month-long martini menu with a particularly playful twist

Kicking October into high gear, Soul Bar & Bistro has launched a month-long cocktail celebration, and everyone’s invited. But this is no ordinary celebration. In true Soul fashion, the Viaduct Harbour stalwart has put a decidedly playful spin on its convivial offering by shining a light on the iconic Pornstar Martini — a flirty and fun libation (often dubbed the ultimate party cocktail) and one of the top 10 cocktails globally since its inception two decades ago.

For those unfamiliar, here’s a little background on the Pornstar Martini. Created in 2002 by Douglas Ankrah of the famous Lab Bar in London, the original Pornstar Martini harnessed only four ingredients: vanilla vodka, vanilla sugar, passion fruit liqueur and passion fruit purée, and was served with a side of Champagne or prosecco in a shot glass. Ankrah allegedly wanted to create something “bold, sexy and playful” and his creation rapidly spread far and wide, with various iterations of the cheeky martini popping up all over the world in the ensuing decades. In 2018, it was named the UK’s favourite cocktail.

Millionaire’s Pornstar

At Soul, the Pornstar Martini has long been something of a signature. Because, while the name of this particular cocktail might draw a few giggles around a table, it is also inevitably re-ordered in rounds once guests have sampled its deliciously fruity and effervescent nature.

Now, Soul has decided to put the Pornstar firmly in the spotlight this month, its clever bartending team led by Bar Manager Katie Cramphorn, creating a comprehensive Pornstar Martini menu that reimagines the cocktail in a variety of ways.

Left: White Chocolate & Mango Pornstar. Right: Pornstar Spritz and Raspberry & Peach Pornstar

From Soul’s take on the original, made with Absolut vanilla vodka, passionfruit, pineapple, lime and bubbles, to its Pornstar Spritz, with added Malibu, candied pineapple and citrus, to its White Chocolate & Mango Pornstar, featuring white chocolate and mango alongside the usual ingredients and even a Millionaire’s Pornstar, which sees the classic martini served with Mumm Champagne and a bump of French caviar, the month-long special menu offers a range of ways to enjoy the sweet libation, whatever your flavour preferences. There’s even an alcohol-free version made with London Dry, passionfruit, pineapple, lime, egg white and bubbles.

Here for a good time, not a long one, Soul Bar & Bistro’s Pornstar Martini Month is on now until the end of October and is the perfect excuse for a night out, so get some friends together for a few celebratory tipples and let your hair down in style.

Gastronomy

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Rewi Spraggon (The Hāngi Master) holding a bottle of Laphroaig, Single Malt, aged 10yrs

Listen up whisky lovers, Laphroaig is hosting an exclusive event this month that you don’t want to miss

Renowned for its rich Scottish heritage, Laphroaig whisky has long been the pour of choice for connoisseurs. Boasting distinctive, smoky notes and a recognisably peaty profile, Laphroaig’s strong, signature taste is set to serve as the inspiration for an upcoming event in which the distillery has teamed up with Kiwi culinary pioneer (The Hāngi Master) Rewi Spraggon, to create a night of exceptional food, paired perfectly with Laphroaig’s famous flavours.

Tales of Peat, Salt and Fire will take place on Saturday the 28th of October and will invite guests to Mechanics Bay for a stunning, coastal experience inspired by the beautiful Islay in Scotland where Laphroaig has been distilled for over 200 years. There, diners will be treated to an extensive menu of dishes that will be cooked on-site using the ancient Māori practice of hāngi (a tradition passed down through generations) where Spraggon will showcase his vast culinary talent, harnessing elements of earth, salt and fire to prepare some seriously spectacular food.

Left: Rewi Spraggon (The Hāngi Master)  Right: Laphroaig, Single Malt, aged 10yrs

To start, a series of canapés will comprise locally sourced seafood, meat and produce, including Clevedon oysters, Laphroaig-smoked cream pāua, kingfish ceviche, buffalo wings, Laphroaig-smoked lamb rack and more. For mains, guests will be served dishes like beef cheek with pumpkin, pork belly with apple caramel, vegetable melange and char-grilled broccolini; and for dessert, dishes like honey mascarpone with a Laphroaig-infused steam pudding, and Kawakawa ice cream with lemon curd and smashed meringue will take centre stage. Of course, each course will be paired with Laphroaig drams, cocktails and guided tastings to help diners learn more about the history behind this iconic drop. (Laphroaig gift bags will also be given at the conclusion of the dinner.)

And while the underlying idea of the menu is to speak to Laphroaig’s distinctive flavour profile, Spraggon’s contribution is to give the famous whisky a decidedly Kiwi spin. In fact, the chef promises to create a universal and memorable experience that brings people together to learn more about not only Laphroaig and the years of tradition and craft behind it, but also, about the art of hāngi cooking, and the similarly impressive history of tradition that has been passed down to Spraggon from his ancestors.

Laphroaig, Single Malt, aged 10yrs

“It’s such a privilege to partner with Laphroaig,” Spraggon says, “it’s been my favourite whisky for as long as I can remember and I can’t wait to take Kiwis on an adventure of flavour through our collaboration.”

Set to be a night where exceptional whisky, mouthwatering food and convivial company collide in a breathtaking setting, Tales of Peat, Salt and Fire is the exclusive event you really don’t want to miss this month.

Tales of Peat, Salt and Fire with Laphroaig and Rewi Spraggon will take place on Saturday the 28th of October from 6:30pm until 9:30pm at the Mechanics Bay Event Space. Tickets are $220 per person and can be purchased here.

Gastronomy

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Zippora wears the Helena Tuxedo Jacket and the Silk Slip Dress
Zippora wears the Campbell vest in White and the Randelli Trouser in White

An ode to the power of personal relationships, Dadelszen’s recent campaign offers a romantic depiction of the brand’s sought-after men’s and womenswear

There is a special, intimate quality about local luxury atelier Dadelszen’s collections that takes their appeal beyond cut, fabrication or finish alone. It is a romanticism, rooted in the idea of timelessness that is woven carefully through every collection. A Dadelszen wardrobe is transeasonal, bespoke, buildable and of a superior quality that makes each piece something to be cherished forever. So when it came time to conceptualise Dadelszen’s new campaign for its 2023 mens and womenswear, it was to the chic, creative couple of internationally-renowned fashion photographer Terence Connors and his Kiwi model wife (and longtime Dadelszen collaborator) Zippora Seven that the brand turned. It presented the perfect opportunity to create a campaign that not only spoke to Dadelszen’s sophisticated, international clientele, but to the underlying spirit of the brand and the ethos of its founders (also a husband-wife duo who have long worked together).

Left: Terence wears the Sera Nymphea Lamb Bomber Jacket and the Hopper Shirt. Zippora wears the Sailor Sweater  Right: Zippora wears Goddess Cape

Trusting Connors with bringing this collection to life was hardly a difficult decision for Dadelszen, after all, the photographer had shot for publications like British Vogue and Vogue Australia, Porter and Elle magazines, brands like Jimmy Choo, Proenza Schouler, Helmut Lang and Luisa Vi Roma, and worked with the likes of Gigi and Bella Hadid, Julia Garner, Sydney Sweeney and more. His photos are characterised by a beautiful, buttery, dream-like quality and the people he photographs always come across as relaxed, personable and real. In short, his work makes space for his subjects to shine, delivering exquisite frames that capture something uniquely raw and deeply connected. 

“Connors has… captured the essence of Dadelszen, offering a personal story of connection, liveable luxury and love that mirrors the origins of the brand itself.”

In this Dadelszen campaign in particular, Connors has, via a series of sundrenched shots, captured the essence of Dadelszen, offering a personal story of connection, liveable luxury and love that mirrors the origins of the brand itself. Each frame draws you into the Dadelszen world where high-end fashion is meticulously designed for elevating the idea of everyday-wear, while a nostalgic, grainy film quality speaks to the brand’s beautiful tactility and penchant for understated sophistication and old-world glamour. 

“Zippora worked with us on our very first campaign,” says Constance von Dadelszen, Creative Director of womenswear at Dadelszen. “And while we’ve all grown a lot since then, there’s a really lovely synergy between Zippy’s journey and ours.” She continues, “working with a real couple like Zippy and Terence, there’s an authenticity to the images that would otherwise be hard to achieve.”

Left: Zippora wears the Helena Tuxedo Jacket and the Silk Slip Dress  Right: Terence wears the Cameron Jacket and the Cashmere Tee. Zippora wears the Roosevelt Jacket and the Quant Rollneck

Balancing soft, refined tailoring with richly-textured knitwear and leather, Dadelszen’s new collection comes alive in the relaxed romanticism and aspirational styling of its campaign. As the brand’s Founder, Edward von Dadelszen, articulates, “it’s a concise collection featuring perennial classics, with new iterations of silhouettes that Dadelszen has become renowned for — sumptuous shearling, beautiful soft leather, cashmere, outerwear and tailoring that one finds themselves reaching for again and again.” 

Reiterating the ways in which this brand is one of the best in its field, both locally and internationally, Dadelszen’s new, seasonal campaign and collection not only exemplify the quality that has kept it at the forefront, but stand as a full-circle moment for the brand — an ode to where it started and an indication of where it is going.


Womenswear

Roosevelt Reversible Jacket from Dadelszen
Half-button Sailor Sweater from Dadelszen
Campbell Vest from Dadelszen
Cashmere Mock Neck Twinset from Dadelszen

Menswear

Sera Nymphea Lamb Bomber from Dadelszen
Marina Cashmere & Silk Jumper from Dadelszen
Cameron Alpaca & Cotton Jacket from Dadelszen
Chambord Suede Bomber Jacket from Dadelszen

dadelszen.com

Dadelszen

Ground Floor, Textile Centre
7 Kenwyn Street
Parnell

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Apaiser Zen Round Freestanding Bath

Transform your bathroom into a calm, contemporary haven with our edit of sleek pieces from Robertson Bathware

A well-designed bathroom should feel like a sanctuary of calm, the space to which you can retire and find solace after a long day. From selecting a bath that marries form with function to choosing understated finishes like natural stone and timber, to opting for simple but sufficiently impactful tapware, there are many ways to ensure that your bathroom is the kind of haven of relaxation it ought to be.

When looking for hero pieces or fixtures that will give any bathroom an upgrade without requiring a full-scale change, it is to Robertson Bathware that we always turn. Offering some of the best brands and high-quality pieces in the world, right on our doorstep, Robertson is the place we trust with our most intimate spaces, its pieces promising to transform even the simplest bathroom into a bona fide sanctuary.

Get the Look


Apaiser Zen Round Freestanding Bath from Robertson Bathware
Grohe Cosmo Shower Set from Robertson Bathware
Elementi Round Mirror Cabinet from Robertson Bathware
Zucchetti Helm Basin Mixer from Robertson Bathware
Alice Equilibrium Vessel Basin from Robertson Bathware
Parisi Loom Wall Cabinet from Robertson Bathware
Apaiser Ode Freestanding Bath from Robertson Bathware
Parisi Arrivo Floor Vanity from Robertson Bathware
Zucchetti Medameda Freestanding Bath Column from Robertson Bathware

robertson.co.nz

Design

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East St. Hall has teamed up with Dan Pinto of popular foodie pop-up, Passa Passa, to create a delicious new summer menu

It might not feel like it this week, but summer is around the corner, and with seasonal change comes a raft of exciting new developments in our local hospitality scene, from new openings to new menus and more.

One such development that has landed on our radar (and should definitely be on yours too) is a mouthwatering new menu at East St. Hall, for which East St.’s Owner, Henry Mitchell Temple, called on the renowned culinary stylings of Dan Pinto, the man behind foodie-favourite pop-up, Passa Passa.

Passa Passa started as an ode to Italian food and flavours done right. And for a while, it operated as an under-the-radar pop-up kitchen, dubbed by those who tried it as one of Auckland’s best-kept secrets. But when people cottoned on to Pinto’s delicious offerings, all of Passa Passa’s pop-ups garnered something of a cult following — and for very good reason. Pinto plays with Italian classics by giving traditional flavours a unique, modern and unexpected twist, and his pizza fritta and pasta creations have taken the local foodie scene by storm.

Now, Pinto has brought his signature Passa Passa flair to the new menu at East St. Hall, which Mitchell Temple tells us is an ode to summertime in Northern Italy. Built on the idea of tasty, made-to-share bites that harness the best seasonal produce around, the concise menu starts with a series of small plates. From creamy stracciatella served with anchovies and lemon basil, to smashed cucumber with buttermilk, to parsley, orange and fennel salad to agria potatoes with rosemary, parmesan and aioli, these bites are simple, unfussy and full of flavour — the perfect way to whet the appetite.

But it’s the pizzetta that really steal the show. There’s a chilli and butter iteration, a version with leeks, lemon and taleggio, one with anchovies, tomate and pickled cucumber, and a deliciously simple marinara, with mozzarella and basil. And if all those didn’t sound delicious enough, each pizzetta comes with the option of adding extra toppings like pancetta, prosciutto or nduja.

To finish (much to the delight of those harbouring a sweet tooth) is a satiating chocolate tart with sherry, mascarpone and vanilla.

In true Passa Passa fashion, Pinto isn’t afraid of breaking the mould, so expect new flavours, rotating specials as well as seasonal changes as the weather gets warmer. The new menu is running now until Christmas, on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 5pm, so we suggest getting in while you can.

Alongside the new menu, East St. Hall has also reinstated its popular Jazz Nights, set to see some of the city’s most talented musicians fill the space with sultry sound. Taking place on the first Thursday of every month, keep an eye out for October’s instalment, on next week.

So, whether you’re looking for somewhere to catch up with friends for an easy meal, or are simply seeking something out of your ordinary routine, snap up a table at East St. Hall. From the good vibes to the live music to the tasty new food and always-good cocktails, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

Passa Passa Menu Available:
Now until Christmas, Thursday to Saturday from 5pm

East St. Hall

5 East Street
Auckland CBD

www.east-street-hall.com

Gastronomy

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Wondering where to eat this weekend? Our dining guide has got you covered for brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks

The weekend is here, which means that it is time to write out a hit list of where you want to go for your morning brunch, long lunches and delicious dinners. Here, in a bid to get you out there supporting local hospitality (and enjoying some utterly delectable food while you’re at it), we have curated a comprehensive weekend dining guide for the days ahead, from Friday night drinks to Saturday lunch to Sunday dinner, and everything in between.

Friday

Drinks at The Terrace

This intimate and exquisitely-appointed oyster bar and restaurant opened in the space alongside Viaduct Harbour’s Oyster & Chop earlier this year and quickly established itself as the perfect spot for an easy drink or a bite with friends. The Terrace offers delicious drinks, a seafood-centric menu that showcases the oyster in all its glory and a vibe that is both elevated and welcoming. This is the ideal place to kick off your Friday night in style.

Dinner at PŌNI

When drinks and nibbles are done, take a short walk to Commercial Bay and park up at Pōni for a delicious dinner. Lead by hospitality guru David Lee, Pōni offers a menu of mouthwatering Asian fare, focusing on Japanese and Chinese flavours, with dishes like popcorn shrimp with nori-sriracha-mayo sauce, cold dan dan noodles with black sesame dressing and char-siu pork jowl with jalapeño relish and mustard oil. Its wine list is also one of the best in town.

Saturday

Brunch at Akarana Eatery

Head out east for a satiating brunch at Nic Watt’s Akarana Eatery. There, enjoy dishes like shakshuka eggs, housemade banana bread and cinnamon French toast, classic Benedict and more. And if you have the family in tow, little ones can exert some energy on the front lawn or nearby playground. A win-win, we say.

Lunch at Azabu Mission Bay

If you decide to linger in the eastern suburbs, why not pop into Azabu Mission Bay for lunch and sample its enticing new menu? Offering a raft of tantalising dishes and flavours, Azabu’s new menu builds on its already stellar reputation, dreamt up by Azabu’s talented chefs as the venue’s answer to summertime dining. (But you can still enjoy it, even if the summer weather hasn’t quite arrived.)

Drinks at Somm Cellar Door

Enjoy weekend drinks in the elevated environs of Somm Cellar Door. This cosy Princes Wharf spot offers an exceptional wine list (in fact, it holds some of the country’s most exclusive bottles in its cellar), alongside a menu of tasty bites designed to pair perfectly with your chosen pour. Take your experience one step further by opting for one of Somm’s Wine Flights, where you will be taken on a sensory journey that expands your wine horizons.

Dinner at Soul Bar & Bistro

You really can’t go wrong at this Viaduct Harbour stalwart. No matter what the weather decides to do this weekend, Soul Bar & Bistro is the place to go for a soul-warming and utterly delectable dinner. Start with some wagyu beef tongue or goat fromage frais, order the beef short rib ragù pappardelle with chilli and torched raclette or the Hawke’s Bay lamb rack (if you’re hungry) and dabble in the halloumi salad on the side. Outstanding.

Sunday

Brunch at Amano

Up your brunch game at Amano, where you can either take a seat and enjoy dishes like granola, avocado with poached eggs on toast or breakfast frittata. Or, simply stop in at the adjoining Amano bakery for breakfast to-go with a tantalising pastry (or two), a freshly-made juice and a takeaway coffee.

Lunch at Huami

Gather your nearest and dearest and head to Huami at SkyCity for a sprawling yum cha lunch. Offering a delectable range of classic yum cha dishes including steamed dim sum, fried dim sum, dumplings, Shanghai xiao long bao, barbecue duck and pork, wok-fried noodles and more, this is the perfect place to escape the weekend weather for a flavoursome feast.

Dinner at Jervois Steak House

End your week on a high note by enjoying a satiating dinner at Auckland’s most lauded steak house. If you haven’t been to Jervois Steak House since its facelift, or sampled the new additions to its menu, consider this a sign. Cosy up by the open fire and order one of JSH’s famous cuts or, if red meat isn’t on the cards, opt instead for something like the grilled crayfish with lemon butter, the handmade gnocchi or the pan-fried market fish. And with a line-up of new desserts on offer to satisfy those sweet-tooth cravings, there really is something here for everyone to enjoy.

Gastronomy

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Set in a historic building with an intriguing past, Melbourne’s stunning Park House is giving us some serious interior inspo

Interior Design — Mim Design
Architect — Pleysier Perkins
Photography — Sean Fennessy

Set in a historic building that was once a Presbyterian manse, this distinct, monolithic home in Melbourne has undergone a meticulous restoration, transformed into a tour de force of contemporary design. 

A stunning testament to architectural innovation, Mim Design’s Park House is an extraordinary residence that artfully juxtaposes the grandeur of a former Presbyterian manse with a striking, modern extension.

Drawing inspiration from the house’s historic but rough-and-ready bluestone facade, Park House boasts a captivating, textural material palette, where brutalist concrete (reminiscent of industrial minimalism) creates bold juxtapositions against the softer living areas inside. Rough-sawn cut and chiselled stone, echoing the home’s heritage, instils a sense of rugged elegance throughout the residence, while the prevailing palette of dove grey and charcoal alongside details like timber panelling and aged accents infuses every space with a moody, almost gallery-like ambience, laying the perfect foundations for a collection of visually-arresting, sculptural artworks. 

“Park House boasts a captivating, textural material palette, where brutalist concrete (reminiscent of industrial minimalism) creates bold juxtapositions against the softer living areas inside.”

In fact, Park House offers a series of enchanting moments and moods, elevating the living experience to unparalleled heights. The front rooms, for instance, are cosy, private and intimate. Here, organic forms and more gentle tones create a calm oasis, inviting occupants in to take solace from the outside world.

In contrast, the rear extension of Park House introduces a deep, tonal inversion, striking in its dramatic allure and monochromatic furnishings. A double-height fireplace, clad in domino quartzite, commands attention, engaging in a sculptural dialogue with the surrounding environment — embraced by Edra Design’s Standard sofa. The grand, modern spiralling staircase, finished in blackened metal, serves as an enchanting focal point, weaving sinuously through the space. While the adjacent kitchen, a harmonious symphony of materials, combines chiselled and hammered grey marble, black-stained American oak cabinetry and gunmetal detailing. A charming dining nook where the Gallotti&Radice 0414 chair accompanies a sweeping custom booth seat adds to the atmosphere that is inviting, albeit intimidating in its composition and scale. 

Ultimately, Park House exemplifies the art of balanced design, skilfully intertwining the home’s devout past with contemporary elements. Its masterful execution by Mim Design showcases the stunning effect that can come from the fusion of rugged materials and refined architectural gestures. The harmonious balance here, between restraint and textural detail, offers a captivating journey through evocative spaces that will leave a lasting impression and creates a grand home befitting of its holy origins.

Get The Look


Edra Standard sofa by Francesco Binfaré from Design55
ClassiCon Sol side table by OrtegaGuijarro from Matisse
Waxing Gibbous to 
Waxing Crescent, 
November 2022 VI
by Kate van der Drift from Sanderson Contemporary
Resident Passenger chair from Simon James
TASCHEN Peter Lindberg Dior book from Selfridges
Fountain coffee table by Glas Italia from ECC
ED049 Light
by Edizioni Design
from Dawson & Co.
Stories of O by David Walshe Book from Booktopia
Gallotti&Radice 0414 chairs by Studio G&R from ECC
Cloud bowl by Tom Dixon from ECC
Poliform Wallace armchair by Jean-Marie Massaud from Studio Italia
Mass Coat stand by Tom Dixon from ECC
Serax Surface Casserole Dish Cast Iron from ECC
Moroso Gogan sofa by Patricia Urquiola from Matisse
Arflex Infinity coffee table by Claesson Koivisto Rune from Studio Italia 

Design

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Artist Freeman White

An exclusive interview with artist Freeman White, as his new exhibition ‘Salt’ opens at Sanderson Contemporary

Contemporary artist Freeman White has confidently positioned himself within New Zealand’s rich lineage of landscape painting, known for his works that bring a refreshing perspective to the genre and deftly bridge past and present. 

Originally renowned for his portraiture, Freeman White’s acclaim grew after winning the prestigious Adam National Portrait Award in 2006. Invitations followed to exhibit at Germany’s REAL international symposium for Figurative Art and to paint portraits in Edinburgh under James Holloway’s Tutelage (at the time. the director of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery). In 2009, White’s artistic journey led him to explore landscape painting; redefining the genre through innovative techniques and a modern context. White’s textured canvases pulsate with energy, offering a contemporary reflection on the natural world’s political and emotional charge. Referencing both art history and current environmental realities, White’s landscapes and seascapes create a deliberate juxtaposition. His brushstrokes expertly evoke shifting sunlight, rolling hills and crashing waves; inviting viewers into an undulating scene.

The artist’s plein-air approach also captures the palpable qualities of painting, imbuing each piece with a human touch and cultivating a profound connection between viewer and artwork. White’s contribution to Aotearoa’s landscape painting and art history is widely recognised. His unique visual perspective invites us to embrace the enduring and ever-evolving allure of New Zealand’s natural wonders, making him one artist to keep firmly on your radar.

Here we present an exclusive interview with the lauded artist, as his new exhibition of paintings, Salt, opens at Sanderson Contemporary.

Exclusive Q&A


When did you become an artist, and what were your first inspiring moments that made you want to become an artist? 

I remember at the age of three getting my first pair of glasses. It changed my world completely. Before then I had been living in a blur of light and colour and all of a sudden everything came into sharp focus. From that moment on I wanted to document my world. I entered lots of art competitions when I was still at school and started exhibiting my work when I was 13. Art has never felt like a choice for me, rather it has always seemed like a calling. I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be an artist.

You started out as a portrait artist but have also become known for your landscapes and seascapes, painting ‘en plein air’. When did you make this transition?

Although I first gained recognition as a portrait painter when I won the ADAM portrait award back in 2006 I had always painted landscapes, as well as portraits. After that major career break, I wanted to show people that I also painted landscapes so in my first solo show after winning the award, at Black Barn Gallery in Hawkes bay, it was all landscapes. The show went really well and from then on my landscapes have become the basis for my career. I still paint portraits, however. I love painting people who inspire me and I don’t think that will ever change.

Vivace, 2023, oil on linen, 525x1035mm, framed

When did you begin painting the ocean?

It was after relocating from Wellington back to my home region of Hawkes Bay that I took an interest in painting the ocean. I bought an old, run-down villa in Napier, with views looking out to the sea along Marine Parade. Seeing this beautiful and ever-changing scene and listening to the waves crashing from my home is what drew me to start painting Seascapes, like the collection I am currently showing at Sanderson Gallery.

How did you get into painting En Plein Air?

I was first exposed to plein air painting on Instagram, in fact, and I still follow lots of incredible artists on there as a result. Plein air painting has made a huge resurgence in recent years and is considered by many to be at the forefront of contemporary landscape painting.

The action of painting ‘En Plein Air’ is simply painting outside on location and was popularised in the nineteenth century by the Impressionists. It has a very long tradition though, that dates back to the fifteenth century with Artists like Da Vinci drawing directly from nature. It is something I wish I had gotten into at the beginning of my career, as it has really changed the way that I paint. 

When I was in my twenties I travelled to Europe with a sketchbook in my hand, making drawings of the old buildings and people that I met. At the time, these sketches became my travel memories as opposed to photographs or the modern-day selfies. Now I always take my painting travel kit. I can’t think of a better way to experience a location than to sit down and paint it. Painting ”En Plein Air” has become my absolute passion and what I choose to do in between painting gallery shows and producing commissions. 

Freeman White painting ‘En Plein Air’

Is there one genre of painting that you love more than another?

I love paint as a medium and believe it has many expressive qualities. I am a realist painter but I don’t only love realist art. I have been profoundly moved by works of art that I did not expect to be moved by, works that were more abstract than realist. So in this way the genre of the artwork has seemed less important to me than the reaction that it inspires from within me. I am interested in many forms of Modern and contemporary art and I have made it part of my life to travel and visit museums and international collections, seeing historical works in their original state. 

What part of the world has been the most inspiring for you to paint?

I recently did a painting trip to Germany and France where I painted castles. I’m always inspired by new surroundings but I think some of my best work has been painted of the Te Mata hills where I grew up in Hawke’s Bay. I would have to say that New Zealand is really the most inspiring place for me as a landscape painter. There is something very powerful about connecting to this place.

FWH 2021 Te mata symphony in green

We were told you are friends with Tilda Swinton and her partner and have spent time with them in Europe. How did this friendship come about and what has your experience been like spending time with them? 

Yes, it’s true I’m friends with Tilda and her partner Sandro Kopp. I was recently in Paris with them and we had a wonderful time. I met Sandro almost twenty years ago at art school in Wellington. We sat next to each other on the first day at orientation and have been best friends ever since. Over the years I have been lucky enough to spend many memorable moments with Sandro and Tilda. They are two of my favourite people.

Which artists inspire you and why? And what advice would you give to young artists?

I’m inspired by many of the historical Greats Like Sargent, Sorolla and Velazquez to name a few. There are so many great painters that have inspired me, too many to list here really but there is no substitute for seeing artworks in their original form. So one piece of advice that I would give to young artists is to see as much original art as possible – work out what moves you and don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes, it’s the best way that you can learn.

Tell us one thing about yourself that people wouldn’t know

Ha ha well not many people know this but I am a passionate cook and recently I have been upping my Wok game. I love lots of different styles of cooking but my recent obsession is Asian cuisine.  

Freeman White’s exhibition ‘Salt’ is on now at Sanderson Contemporary until the 22nd of October 2023.

Freeman White in his Studio
Cabaletta study, 2023, oil on linen panel, 355x450mm, framed
Grazioso study, 2023, oil on linen panel, 355x450mm, framed
Rubato study, 2023, oil on linen panel, 355x450mm, framed
Vivace study, 2023, 2023, oil on linen panel, 355x450mm, framed
Rubato, 2023, oil on linen, 630x1040mm, framed
Cabaletta, 2023, oil on linen, 625x1035mm, framed

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