Left to Right: Fankery Mochi-filled Cheesecake, Andiamo’s Perrier-Jouët Lunch & Guest In Residence at Somm

From tasty pop-ups to guest chefs and Champagne celebrations, Denizen’s definitive guide to dining in September

1 Sep 2023

Spring is finally here, and with it is a raft of delicious dining experiences that are set to help lift us right out of our winter slump. From an innovative new Yum Cha, to mouth-watering pop-ups, guest chef dinners, lunchtime specials, free coffee, weekend roasts and more, here we present our definitive September dining guide.

Vegan Yum Cha lands in Auckland

In an evolution of its sustainable, vegetarian ethos, East Restaurant launched its entirely vegan Yum Cha service on the 3rd of September. Showcasing food that harnesses a range of vibrant and complex Asian flavours and a number of iconic Yum Cha dishes, reimagined to be entirely plant-based, this tantalising twist on classic Yum Cha needs to be experienced first hand. (Sittings are already selling out so book now to secure your spot.)

Left: East Restaurant’s Char Siu Bao Right: Fankery’s Mochi-filled Cheesecake

Fankery pop-up

Taking up temporary residence in Spacefor, the sleek retail space-for-hire in Britomart, famed cheesecake purveyor Fankery will be selling its delicious morsels from the 27th of September until the 1st of October. Its mouth-watering, mochi-filled burnt Basque cheesecakes have garnered it something of cult status among Auckland foodies, and for very good reason. These sweet little slices of cake are heaven in every bite. Serving up flavours like flavours like biscoff cookie dough, durian, matcha, black sesame and more, plus a special, limited-edition flavour for the pop-up (yet to be announced), this is one event you don’t want to miss.

Morepork BBQ Sharing Platter, Smoke & Spice Festival

Lebanese Grocer launches new monthly Dining Boxes

Taking its delicious deli-style offering and packaging it into a tasty box of treats, Elie Asaf’s Lebanese Grocer has launched its monthly Dining Boxes, in which the lauded chef will curate a selection of delicious goodies to be delivered straight to your door. The first box was a homage to Dad, in honour of Father’s Day, and included harissa, Tony’s Roasted Nuts, three of the house sojouk, za’atar halloumi, za’atar popcorn and a special recipe from Assaf himself. The boxes are $65 each and can be ordered here. Keep an eye out for more of these delicious dining boxes to come.

A guest chef arrives at Soul Bar & Bistro

Inviting Casey McDonald of Craggy Range up to join its celebrated Executive Chef, Gavin Doyle in the kitchen, Soul Bar & Bistro is hosting a collaborative dinner in which the two chefs will create an exquisite, four-course menu that speaks to the best of Hawkes Bay and Auckland. Here, world-class dishes that harness local ingredients will be paired with a range of incredible wines in a night that showcases why both McDonald and Doyle have garnered such acclaim in their careers. Taking place on Wednesday the 20th of September from 6pm, tickets are available for $180 per person, so call the team at Soul Bar & Bistro on (09) 356 7249 or email them here, to secure your spot. See more information here.

Left: Bar Magda’s Wild Venison Tartare Right: Andiamo’s Champagne Lunch

Bar Magda’s BYO Sundays

If you’re wondering where to dine on a Sunday this September, look no further than Bar Magda. This cosy, Cross Street destination has long been synonymous with culinary mastery, providing an intimate ambience that transports diners away from the busy city streets. Its atmospheric setting coupled with its unique menu that explores Aotearoa’s seasonal produce through a Filipino lens has made Bar Magda one of our favourite dining destinations, and its Sunday offering has made it one of our favourite places to mark the end of the week. On Sunday, guests can delight in a glass of Andre Clouet Champagne paired with a two-course sharing menu for $70 per person. Additionally, oenophiles and connoisseurs are invited to bring their own prized bottles of wine to enjoy alongside their meals, paying standard corkage fees. This unique Sunday offering allows guests to indulge in an intimate setting while savouring cherished wines and creating special memories. Plus, if you haven’t yet tried Bar Magda’s latest seasonal dishes like its pork and duck albondigas and its wild venison tartare, make sure you do over the next month before they are replaced on the Bar Magda menu for other seasonal delights.

Andiamo’s Perrier-Jouët lunch

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 mark the changing of seasons, and now, is giving us all the reason we need to lock in a long lunch. In the optimistic spirit of spring, Andiamo is launching a special set lunch menu with Perrier-Jouët that will be available from the 20th of September, Wednesday through Sunday, from 12pm until 3pm. 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 (this menu will be available from the 19th of September). 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 new Perrier-Jouët lunchtime menu is giving us every excuse for a convivial midday escape.

Jervois Steak House Power Lunch at Jervois Steak House

Embrace the work-day working lunch with Jervois Steak House’s delicious new offering, drawing us into the newly-revamped stalwart for a Thursday or Friday ‘Power Lunch’. There, hungry punters will be able to enjoy their choice of main, plus a side and a glass of house wine, all for $55 per person. The perfect excuse to gather your colleagues and take that afternoon meeting over a tasty lunch instead, Jervois Steak House’s new lunch offering is the perfect way to break up the working day. The Power Lunch is available from the 1st of September and bookings are highly recommended. Book your spot here.

Guest In Residence menu at Somm

At the start of last month, Somm Cellar Door launched its very first Guest In Residence series with the highly-regarded Mt Difficulty winery. There, diners have been treated to an in-depth wine experience, a limited-time set menu, an exclusive cellar door tasting event with the Central Otago vineyard’s Chief Winemaker Greg Lane, and perhaps most importantly, a chance to win a luxury escape to Queenstown valued at more than $11,000. This unmissable, immersive culinary offering is still running until the 17th of September, which means that there are still a couple of weeks for you to get down to Princes Wharf and experience it for yourself. Whether you’re a wine-lover, a foodie, or simply someone who would love the chance to win such an epic prize, Somm’s first Guest In Residence is not to be missed.

Left: INCA Weekend Brunch Right: Somm’s Market Fish Crudo

Weekend Roast Dinners at The Pantry

Is there any better way to end the week than with a satiating roast dinner? Even better when its shared with your nearest and dearest. Well, that is exactly what is on offer at The Pantry at Park Hyatt Auckland, where every Saturday and Sunday from 5pm until 8pm, an utterly mouthwatering roast dinner menu will be on offer for $38 per person, designed to satiate your every craving. The actual roast will change every week, but will always be served with chef’s potatoes, seasonal vegetables and lashings of hearty gravy. Kicking off this weekend (just in time for Father’s Day) the weekly roast will be a perfectly cooked Ribeye with a sticky toffee pudding for dessert (at an extra $10). So whether you take your Dad to this waterfront spot, or simply gather together some friends or family, this is set to be a seriously tasty weekend feast, and takes the hassle out of hosting at home. Book your spot here.

Free All Press Coffee for the All Blacks at INCA Ponsonby

Helping us all get into the supporting spirit, INCA Ponsonby has a special September offer for All Blacks fans. Throughout the month of September INCA Ponsonby is offering complimentary All Black Allpress coffee when the All Blacks win their games in the Rugby World Cup. There are three games in September, each one with morning kick-off times between 7am and 8am, which makes INCA Ponsonby, with its delicious weekend brunch menu, the perfect spot to head to for a celebratory post-match bite. Book your table in advance here.

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Fisher & Paykel’s Experience Centre is a haven of minimalist design and culinary excellence

1 Sep 2023

In designing the most minimal example of its three display kitchens, set within its flagship Experience Centre, Fisher & Paykel employed Boffi — Italian kitchen maestros with a heritage equal in length to the local appliance brand. Using the K14 system (a sophisticated but pared-back approach to the modern kitchen) in harmony with Fisher & Paykel’s integrated, minimal appliances, this display kitchen has been conceived as a blank canvas. Not only is it a space that emphasises performance and practicality, but it offers the perfect, versatile setting for a range of culinary and social affairs.

A sleek and simple but innovative approach to the modern kitchen has always been in Fisher & Paykel’s design vocabulary, wherein the brand’s hugely popular range of minimal-style appliances promise to integrate seamlessly into any setting. Because, while the best minimal kitchens offer a feeling of luxurious simplicity, they also require a degree of design rigour to ensure that every detail and every finish is highly considered and fit for the functional requirements of the space. This is where Fisher & Paykel’s appliances fit perfectly.

To best demonstrate the depth and breadth of its minimal-style range, Fisher & Paykel’s Boffi display kitchen exemplifies the subtle sophistication of the brand’s integrated appliances. Four CoolDrawer units and four DishDrawer dishwashers are set into the expansive island, while a raft of exquisite, blackened timber cabinetry hides a seamlessly-integrated Column refrigerator, freezer and wine care cabinet. In appliances where integration is more challenging, such as the combination steam ovens and sous-vide vacuum drawers, a visually-recessive minimal style has been harnessed for a harmonious addition that is as practical as it is polished. Complementary accessories have also been added, such as Fisher & Paykel’s integrated coffee maker — another considered detail that reduces the need for bulky appliances crowding out countertops.

It speaks to the brand’s inherent, less-is-more philosophy, where function needn’t compromise form. It also reflects our greater demand for liveability in the spaces we inhabit.

To understand the full Fisher & Paykel effect, pay the brand’s Experience Centre a visit and pull up a chair at The Social Kitchen. There, the Mastery of Temperature experience, cooked by Fisher & Paykel’s expert chefs showcases the unique ways in which this brand is revolutionising our approach to the modern kitchen, marrying some of the most advanced, innovative appliances in the world with an internationally-renowned, designer space and proving that practicality need never get in the way of beauty or luxury.

COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED

fisherpaykel.com

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Two chefs at the top of their game are joining forces for an unmissable, one-night-only dining event at Soul Bar & Bistro

1 Sep 2023

For as long as we can remember, we have been drawn to Viaduct Harbour stalwart Soul Bar & Bistro, for its good vibes, delicious drinks and exceptional food. As popular among those seeking a convivial celebration as it is among the discerning foodie crowd, Soul is set to put its famous culinary prowess in the spotlight with a special, one-night-only dining event that you really don’t want to miss.

Inviting Casey McDonald of Craggy Range up to join its celebrated Executive Chef, Gavin Doyle in the kitchen, Soul Bar & Bistro is hosting a collaborative dinner in which the two chefs will create an exquisite, four-course menu with exceptional wine pairings that speaks to the best of Hawkes Bay and Auckland. Here, world-class dishes that harness local ingredients will be paired with a range of incredible wines in a night that showcases why both McDonald and Doyle have garnered such acclaim in their careers.

For anyone who hasn’t experienced McDonald’s skill at Craggy Range, this chef boasts a wealth of experience, ranging from Wellington to San Francisco, and London to Melbourne, where he directed culinary operations at famed eateries like Supernatural, Cumulus, and Cutler & Co. His current has just been named New Zealand Winery Restaurant of the Year.

For Doyle’s part, his work at Soul Bar & Bistro has seen the restaurant attain a coveted Cuisine Hat for two years running, clearly the result of his many many years of experience in some of the best kitchens in the world, including the Michelin-starred Mint in Ireland and multi-award winning Tetsuya in Australia.

Promising the collaboration of two chefs operating at the very top of their game, this dining event will take place on Wednesday the 20th of September from 6pm, with tickets available for $180 per person. Call the team at Soul Bar & Bistro on (09) 356 7249 or email them here, to secure your spot. Set to be an unforgettable evening, we suggest booking with haste, lest you miss out.

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In the lead-up to the Rugby World Cup, Louis Vuitton has unveiled an exciting new collaboration with All Blacks legend, Dan Carter

1 Sep 2023

For those who don’t know, Dan Carter has a long and storied history with luxury juggernaut, LVMH. It is a relationship that dates back to a stint he did living in Paris, which opened his eyes to the world of high-end fashion. Years later, having established his relationship with LVMH, Carter was asked to conduct a Q&A at a conference of Louis Vuitton’s global GMs, in which he spoke to his experiences around building culture, encouraging strong vision, the growth mindset and the importance of work ethic and humility, discovering that much of what he had learned over his career as a professional rugby player (one of the most well-known professional rugby players in the world, mind you) were applicable to those working across a range of industries.

In the subsequent years, Carter continued to build on his interest in fashion, collaborating with LVMH on various projects (like a monogrammed rugby ball) and sitting front-row at some of the company’s most important fashion shows (like Virgil Abloh’s debut as the menswear designer for Louis Vuitton).

Now, Louis Vuitton has unveiled the exciting next step in its ongoing relationship with Dan Carter, the Maison’s first Malle Vestiaire, an exquisite, one-of-a-kind wardrobe trunk specifically designed to hold the rugby legend’s most precious sports equipment and memorabilia.

To design this bespoke piece, Carter worked closely with Louis Vuitton’s meticulous artisans and craftspeople, fashioning a striking piece from the finest wood, covered in the Maison’s iconic black-and-silver Monogram Eclipse canvas and with metal clasps, closures and rivers that pay tribute to historic Louis Vuitton trunks. It was also finished with various painted logos and numbers specific to Carter’s career, including DC10 (his player number) and 1598 (the record-breaking number of points he scored across his international rugby career).

Inside, the Malle Vestiaire is lined with micro-fibre and sportswear-inspired fabric and boasts a variety of shelves and draws designed to display Carter’s most-prized memorabilia. This includes his three World Rugby Player of the Year awards, his three Rugby World Cup medals, his two 100th-test caps, the three jerseys he wore at Rugby World Cups, his ‘retirement’ boots, alongside a pair he wore during a Rugby World Cup, copies of his book The Art of Winning and the Louis Vuitton rugby ball he created with the Maison in 2019.

“We wanted to create an extra-special object,” Carter says. “This Malle Vestiaire holds all the memorabilia that symbolises the amazing memories I have of playing professional rugby, while also paying tribute to Louis Vuitton’s renowned Art of Travel. I really can’t think of a better way for them to be displayed than in this beautiful trunk.”

Marking the next step in what has already proven a fruitful partnership for both Louis Vuitton and Carter, the Malle Vestiaire is the perfect embodiment of the rugby legend’s love for fashion and for the sport to which he dedicated most of his life. And with the Rugby World Cup set to kick off on the 8th of September in Paris, we couldn’t think of a more timely tribute.

www.louisvuitton.com

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Here’s why Louis Vuitton’s new silk squares are the only accessory you need this spring

31 Aug 2023

The timeless, feminine allure of a Louis Vuitton silk square is undeniable. A piece that oozes sophistication and embodies elegance in its soft silhouette, exquisite texture and intricate detailing, a silk square is something that will stay in your wardrobe for far more than one season, and Louis Vuitton’s hugely popular iterations are the pinnacle, whether baring the Maison’s famous monogram or one of its intricate, heritage patterns.

Now, Louis Vuitton has announced the release of its new silk square collection, Celebrate Silk, offering pieces that reinterpret the brand’s beloved iconography in joyful colours and patterns, perfect for the arrival of spring.

Spun from the purest silk, printed in distinctive motifs and available in three different sizes (which means they can be worn a variety of ways), these silk squares reflect Louis Vuitton’s audacious spirit, transforming a classic piece into a versatile and fashion-forward accessory for the modern woman. Whether worn casually or formally, wrapped around a head or neck, draped across a body or tied around the handle of a favourite bag, Louis Vuitton’s new silk squares will lift our sartorial repertoire out of the depths of winter with optimistic colour, and elevate any look to bold new heights.

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www.louisvuitton.com

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Orphans Kitchen is open again in the evenings as a cosy, delicious wine bar — and we have all the details

30 Aug 2023

This year (this month, in fact) marks 10 years for Tom Hishon and Josh Helm’s Ponsonby Road institution, Orphans Kitchen. Widely beloved for its cosy neighbourhood vibe, friendly service and food that reimagines classic brunch and lunch fare with a flavourful, purposeful and sustainable edge, Orphans Kitchen has built a legion of loyal followers who relish its reliably delicious menu and perfectly made coffee. In fact, I can’t count how many times I’ve parked up at one of Orphans Kitchen’s beautiful wooden tables to tuck into a crumpet with honey and a hazelnut flat white. (Or, if the mood hits, one of its famous Southland cheese rolls.) It is a time-honoured dining destination for a reason, which is why we were very excited to hear that it was set to make some new moves.

Back when Orphans Kitchen first opened, it was evening only, before slowly morphing into an all-day offering. Then, a few years ago, the decision to close Orphans’ night service was made, to give Hishon more time to open his new restaurant at the base of Hotel Britomart — Kingi.

After a few years of building Orphans’ daytime offering (and having heard from a number of enthusiastic regulars who were pining for something more), Hishon decided to reimagine what evenings at Orphans could look like, going back to the drawing board and working with his new business partner, Dan Gillet (of Wine Diamonds and Everyday Wine), to create a wine bar that took the relaxed, neighbourhood vibe of the day and translated it into a slightly more elevated, but altogether welcoming nighttime affair. “What we do really well during the day is create an environment where our regulars want to pop in two or three times a week, or sometimes more,” Hishon explains, “so we sought to bring that same idea into Orphans’ new evening service too, where people can come in for a glass of wine, a small nibble or a full meal, whatever they want.”

The menu, Hishon explains, is fuss-free and was designed with wine in mind. “It’s been a different approach for me to think about a wine list first and then to build a menu around it,” Hishon explains. “But this is the kind of food I love to cook and eat myself, and the flavours will elevate and complement our wines.” As a result, the dishes on offer in Orphans’ new evening menu are purpose-made to pair with its extensive wine list, which spans Australasian favourites alongside delicious European drops, and a number of Champagnes too.

Food-wise, diners can expect a series of nibbles, bite-sized starters, sharing plates and a few sweet treats for good measure, with the overarching idea being food that will work with a number of wines and vice versa. Dishes such as a Délice de Bourgogne with endive serve as a simple but fresh starter, followed by the likes of Ortiz anchovy and Myer lemon toasts, a buckwheat waffle (gluten-free) served with crème fraiche and spring herbs, and chicken liver pâté, with calvados jelly and Granny Smith.

Slightly larger options include organic fried chicken with koji mayo and black lime (a serious highlight), a unique smoked-Kahawai Scotch egg with nduja and radicchio, and a pork hock cassoulet, served with fennel, butter bean and preserved lemon.

Those with a hankering for dessert can indulge in tiramisu, black cardamom truffles or a delicious Comté with honeycomb. And for anyone seeking a more elevated experience, 15g-tins of Oscietra caviar can be added to any meal (we are told this is particularly delicious paired with the fried chicken and a crisp flute of Ruinart Champagne).

“I’m really excited to expand and elevate our offering once again,” Hishon says, “and to take Orphans Kitchen to the next level.” From Dan Gillet’s expertise driving the impressive wine list to Tom Hishon’s unique, culinary flair, Orphans’ new evening service is shaping up to be just as popular as its daytime one. Officially kicking off tonight, we suggest getting in there as soon as possible to experience it for yourself.

Orphans Kitchen Evening Hours:
Wednesday – Sunday, 5pm until late

Orphans Kitchen

118 Ponsonby Road
Grey Lynn
Auckland

www.orphanskitchen.co.nz

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Serving Sunday Yum Cha with a tasty twist, East Restaurant is set to become our favourite new weekend spot

30 Aug 2023

Whether you consider yourself a plant-based eater or not, there’s no denying that the vegan and vegetarian fare served at CBD restaurant, East, is some of the best in the City. Set at the base of the Sudima Auckland City hotel (opposite City Works Depot), East was started by lifetime vegetarians the Jhunjhnuwala family who, armed with a love for Asian cooking and a desire to create an eatery that focused on taste as much as it did on sustainability, assembled a team of experts to help bring their vision of an entirely vegetarian venture to life.

Now, the East kitchen is helmed by Executive Chef Stuart Marsden (his impressive culinary history including stints at Woodpecker Hill and Finn’s Beach Club in Bali) and Head Chef Vincent Yan (boasting extensive experience at 5-star hotels across Hong Kong and Macau, where he became a master of Cantonese cooking) who, alongside their talented team, create exceptional food that marries mouth-watering, complex and vibrant Asian flavours with innovative, plant-based ingredients. And while East’s stellar reputation continues to grow, the restaurant is about to expand its unique offering once again, with a new Sunday experience, promising to reimagine Yum Cha as we know it.

Left: Lotus Root Wontons, Sheng Jian Bao, Lo Bak Go & Spring Onion Pancake

From this Sunday, the 3rd of September, East will launch Auckland’s first-ever, entirely plant-based Yum Cha service, giving the delicious dining tradition we all love a delectable, vegan twist. There, we’ve been told to expect flavoursome renditions of classic Dim Sum dishes like Char Siu Bao, filled with flavoursome, sticky jackfruit and Sheng Jian Bao, in which wood ear mushrooms make for the perfect pork replacement. East has even called on a team of master dumpling makers to exclusively handcraft a number of the dumplings on the menu.

Left: Water Chestnut Wontons Right: Har Gao

A few crowd favourites will be on hand too, like East’s Spring Onion Pancake and its Xiao Long Bao Soup Dumplings (both of which we can wholeheartedly endorse as some of the tastiest dishes in town), as well as a selection of satiating sweet treats to end any meal on a high note, from Deep Fried Sesame Balls to Mango Tapioca Pudding.

Running every Sunday from 12pm until 3pm, East’s new vegan Yum Cha is the perfect way to wrap up the week. Offering food that doesn’t sacrifice quality to flavour; food that (thanks to the skill of the people creating it) treats plant-based ingredients with the same depth and complexity you would expect from a more conventional Yum Cha menu, this new service is an absolute must-try, and is set to make East our new favourite Sunday destination. Spaces are limited and bookings for Yum Cha are already starting to fill up so we suggest securing your spot with haste.

Yum Cha Hours:
Every Sunday (starts 3 September), 12pm – 3pm

East Restaurant

63-67 Nelson Street
Auckland CBD

www.easteats.co.nz

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Tickets for the most coveted Melbourne Cup celebrations have just been released! Book now before you miss out

30 Aug 2023

Drawing convivial crowds, dressed to the nines, the annual Melbourne Cup is always a celebratory affair. And while the actual event isn’t taking place until early November, so popular are the viewing parties for its exciting races that Auckland’s best bars and restaurants often release their dedicated, Melbourne Cup events early, and tend to sell out within hours. And considering that four of our favourite destinations have just released tickets to their Melbourne Cup events, we suggest securing your spot now to be part of an atmosphere as lively as all the action on the racecourse.

Bivacco

Marking Bivacco’s first foray into Melbourne Cup celebrations, this event is set to be one you certainly don’t want to miss. Not only will your afternoon here afford you sun-drenched seating and unparalleled views of the sparkling Viaduct Harbour waterfront, but it will also include a spectacular, four-course long Italian lunch with plenty of Moët & Chandon Champagne (including a flute on arrival), fashion by Superette and Fashions in the Field, a line-up of renowned DJs, all the Melbourne Cup action streamed on large screens and plenty of games, sweeps and prizes to be won. Gearing up to be the party of the year, tickets are $250 per person and can be secured by calling (09) 801 6505.

Non Solo Pizza

Channel the spirit of the Italian coast at Non Solo Pizza’s decidedly chic Melbourne Cup affair. There, guests will be greeted with flutes of Veuve Clicquot Champagne on arrival before delving into a delectable, four-course long lunch, featuring a number of quintessential Non Solo Pizza dishes. Those who really dress for the occasion will want to be a part of NSP’s Fashions in the Field competition, while others can just sit back and enjoy all the racing action live on big screens. There will even be a TAB Big Race Day Pack on site. A raft of rousing DJs will play the soundtrack to the day and keep the vibes going well into the evening, making this one of the very best places to be for those seeking a party to remember. Tickets are $200 per person, so gather your friends and book your spot here.

MoVida

Not only does it feel entirely appropriate to celebrate the Melbourne Cup at an establishment that actually started in Melbourne, but MoVida is putting on a serious show this year, with a celebration for the ages. There, in MoVida’s exquisite dining room, high above the Auckland waterfront, guests will enjoy flutes of Veuve Clicquot on arrival, followed by an exceptional, five-course sharing menu, all while taking in the exciting Melbourne Cup action live on a number of large TV screens. There will also be a Seafarers’ Fashions in the Fields competition with a number of incredible prizes up for grabs, alongside live entertainment, DJs and music to keep spirits high long after the final race is done. There are two package options available for those wanting to celebrate the Melbourne Cup at MoVida: the $250 package will afford diners a premium seat in MoVida’s dining room, while the $200 package includes high-top seating only (and can only be booked for a maximum party of four). So start making your plans and deciding who you want to celebrate the big day with. Tickets can be bought here.

Bar Non Solo

Adjacent to MoVida is the sleek Bar Non Solo, where those seeking a sophisticated Melbourne Cup celebration can get amongst all the action thanks to live streams on big screens, plenty of Veuve Cliquot Champagne, a heavenly four-course, Italian sharing menu and a number of iconic Italian cocktails. Alongside entry into Seafarers’ Fashions in the Field, guests will also be treated to live entertainment and music all afternoon and well into the evening. There is a $200 Melbourne Cup package and a $180 Melbourne Cup package to be bought for Bar Non Solo’s festivities, with former including seating in the restaurant and the latter offering high-top seating only (which can only be booked for a maximum party of four). Choose the ticket that suits you best and secure a coveted spot, here.

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Wishlist to wardrobe: These are the sought-after pieces you need to shake up your spring looks

29 Aug 2023

Spring is almost upon us, which means it is time to shake off the shackles of winter and give your wardrobe a seasonal refresh. From denim jackets to utility pants to the slides you’ll want to slip into this season, we have rounded up a selection of the pieces you need to add to your sartorial arsenal immediately.

01.
The denim jacket

Do away with dowdy denim and replace it something decidedly more stylish like this monogrammed jacket — a must-have in our books.

Monogram Denim Workwear Jacket from Louis Vuitton

ACNE STUDIOS Morris Denim Jacket from Mrporter

02.
The logo sweatshirt

While every wardrobe needs a sweatshirt or two, give your leisurewear an elevated edge by opting for something with a subtle logo.

Embroidered EKD Cotton Sweatshirt from Burberry

GIVENCHY Hooded Long Sleeve Print Shirt from Faradays

COCCODRILLO LOGO SWEATSHIRT from Versace

03.
The utility pant

Utilitarian style is clearly here to stay, so pick up a pair of practical pants (prefereably with pockets) that give functionality some tasteful flair.

LOEWE Wide-Leg Cotton-Corduroy Trousers from Net-a-Porter

Convertible Ripstop Pants from Louis Vuitton

04.
The slides

Ideal for transeasonal pursuits, these hybrid slides (part sandal, part loafer) are comfortable, easy to wear and cool in a casual way.

05.
The sunglasses

Throw shade with a pair of tinted-lens sunglasses that harken to laid-back 70s style. Not too heavy, this style is perfect for wearing in spring.

cutler & gross 1402 SQUARE SUNGLASSES from Parker&Co.

Attitude Pilot sunglasses from Louis Vuitton

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Style Icon: Viky Rader

Porsche Presents: The Drive with Megan Kenny

28 Aug 2023

Having grown up with a dressmaker for a mother and a tailor for a grandmother, it made sense that Megan Kenny would be drawn to the sewing machine. Armed with an inherent ability and what she calls her “drive to survive,” Kenny has, over the last few decades, harnessed both her sewing skills and her keen creative eye to build a bespoke, bridal brand that has become one of the most sought-after in the country: Kenny and Harlow Bridal.

Here, Kenny sits down in front of the camera as part of Porsche’s series, The Drive, to talk about how her upbringing instilled in her a grit and determination to succeed. “At the age of 12 I lost my mother and then at the age of 15 I lost my father,” she says. “Losing my parents at a young age formed my personality… I chose to dig my heels in and move forward and look after myself, knowing that there was no one behind me that was going to prop me up.”

porsche.co.nz

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01.
The denim jacket

02.
The logo sweatshirt

03.
The utility pant

04.
The slides

05.
The sunglasses