There is something so chic about strong, feminine tailoring. A jacket or coat that hangs off the shoulders, hugs in all the right places and is fashioned from a luxurious, versatile fabric (made to last well beyond one season alone) will deliver timeless appeal to any wardrobe. A piece like that can be paired with casual, everyday looks as perfectly as it can with more formal occasionwear, which makes it one of the most valuable things to have in your sartorial arsenal. So, it was with great excitement that we learned of the arrival of Liberowe, a new, up-and-coming brand that offers exquisite pieces with a focus on tailoring, into Muse.
Liberowe is based in London (where it is designed and made) and was started by Talia Loubaton, who was born and raised in Paris, studied fashion at Central Saint Martins (a hallowed institution) and worked for a stint at Alexander McQueen, before deciding to start her own brand early last year.
Inspired by a trip she took to India, Loubaton dreamt up a brand that offered a unique fusion of Indian menswear with the enigmatic allure of 70s Parisian style. In every, carefully-tailored piece Loubaton explores captivating contrasts between Eastern mystique and Western charm, masculinity and femininity, strength and delicacy. From boxy, elegant cuts to sumptuous but always understated fabrics, Liberowe’s collections redefine classic elegance and play very much into the ‘quiet luxury’ trend that is giving all of our wardrobes a timeless overhaul. As Loubaton articulates, “our customers are women who value quality and timelessness, who know how to build a wardrobe and how to style their staples from season to season.”
At the heart of Librowe lies a commitment to transcending conventional womenswear. Not only was Loubaton inspired by Indian Maharajahs of bygone eras and the splendour of their opulent embroideries, she was also drawn to the women of past decades who fearlessly embraced the comfort of more androgynous styles. As such, Liberowe’s pieces exude a boldness, a freedom and an innocent sensuality that speaks to the true modernist in us all. “I love the idea of producing clothes that have precision and structure,” Loubaton explains, “and I love turning old couture inspirations into something we can wear everyday.”
Recently, Liberowe landed exclusively at Muse, making its global, wholesale debut at the luxury, multi-brand store. “I never thought my first stockist would be in New Zealand,” Loubaton admits, “but I just love Olivia and Michele’s energy and dynamic, and it honestly feels amazing to imagine that our clothes, designed and made in London, are being sold and worn on the other side of the world”.
At Muse, the first drop of Liberowe offers an exceptional selection, including tailored jackets, coats and skirts, designed to be worn in different ways from season to season. Whether paired with a crisp cotton shirt or a trusty white Tee and jeans, or even with a leg-baring dress as the weather gets warmer, this brand radiates understated sophistication and promises to leave a lasting impression.
September is proving to be a month packed with a line-up of exceptional cultural events to keep you happily busy. From a series of incredible theatrical events to orchestral wonders to an at exhibition you really don’t want to miss, our September Culture guide is filled with everything you need to visit or book tickets to this month.
Liam Gerrard at Sanderson Contemporary Left: Amana Ave, Mount Eden Right: Haggerston I
Liam Gerrard at Sanderson Contemporary
In his latest exhibition, Unfurling at Sanderson Contemporary, artist Liam Gerrard invites viewers to contemplate the delicate dance of existence through his masterful artistry. Renowned for his exquisite renderings of hydrangeas in various stages of bloom and decay, Gerrard has also, over the last year, ventured into new territory by exploring the fleeting beauty of moths and is now adding the timeless allure of roses to his repertoire. Intricately detailed and executed with pastels and charcoal, Gerrard’s larger-than-life moth depictions serve as a poignant reminder of life’s transience (as some moths live for just a single day). In contrast, his roses, symbolising love, beauty and courage, capture the essence of their cyclical existence, spanning from six to a hundred years, mirroring the seasons of spring and winter.
Titled after the locations where these flowers were discovered, such as ‘Haggerston Park I & II,’ Gerrard’s newest works not only showcase his technical prowess but also delve into profound themes of time’s passage and the significance of fleeting moments in our lives. Unfurling is a testament to Gerrard’s ability to harness the fragility of existence into breathtaking works of art. On now until the 24th of September.
Switzerland
Dubbed ‘pitch-perfect’, this thrilling rendition of Switzerland stars Sarah Peirse as Patricia Highsmith, the best-selling and brilliant author responsible for penning The Talented Mr Ripley, who is now living as a recluse in the Swiss Alps, filling her days with cats, chain-smoking and a growing collection of antique weapons. But, when faced with a visit from her publisher, who insists she write one more Tom Ripley novel and won’t take ‘no’ for an answer, a game of cat and mouse ensues, one that calls into question ideas of identity and the art of creation. Written with brilliant intelligence and enthralling tension, this white-knuckle meta-thriller from the Auckland Theatre Company in on from the 19th of September until the 7th of October at the ASB Waterfront Theatre, and will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Bad(ish) Teacher
After a sell-out run at the New Zealand Comedy Festival, Gabby Anderson is bringing her Billy T nominated show back to Auckland audiences this September. Bad(ish) Teacher will land at Basement Theatre on Tuesday the 19th of September and run until Friday the 22nd of September, promising an hour of hilarious stand-up comedy, jam-packed with a range of side-splitting antics from Anderson’s years as a teacher. Set to be a seriously memorable night, this is one event you don’t want to miss.
Synthony
Synthony No.1
Returning to where the phenomenon that is Synthony began, Synthony No.1 is taking audiences right back to the beginning. In this unmissable show, the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra will team up with live vocalists, instrumentalists, DJs and a range of visual and sound effects to take us on a journey through a generation of dance music, with rousing, reinvented renditions of all the biggest club classics including Eric Prydz, Avicii, Energy52, Fat Boy Slim, Darude and many more. Taking place on Friday the 15th of September at the Auckland Town Hall, we suggest securing your tickets immediately, as this one is sure to sell out.
Émilie
This high-energy comedy-drama, with original music and larger-than-life characters, is set in Paris in the summer of 1733, where protagonist Émilie du Châlet’s work has stalled and she feels she cannot face another, gossip-fuelled social event. Little does she know she is about to fall in love with a poet, and he, in turn, is about to meet his intellectual match. This is the untold story of the famed mistress of Voltaire, France’s most revered philosophers and writers. Taking place at Q Theatre from the 19th until the 23rd of September, this entertaining and enthralling play should be high on your list this September.
Morgan Evans
Morgan Evans
Australian country music sensation, Morgan Evans, is set to bring his electrifying country sound to Auckland’s Powerstation in an upcoming concert that is sure to leave fans in awe. Performing with his signature loop pedal, Evans will deliver a solo set that showcases his exceptional talent. The audience can expect a night of infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics, with chart-topping hits like ‘Kiss Somebody’ and ‘Day Drunk’ creating an electric atmosphere. Evans’ upcoming performance at Powerstation is poised to solidify his status as a rising star in the country music scene, and fans are eagerly anticipating an unforgettable night.
Half of the Sky
Promising an exquisite theatrical experience, Half of the Sky blends the masterful storytelling of internationally renowned writer and actor Lennie James with the raw talent of the Massive Theatre Company ensemble. Taking place at the Aotea Centre from the 12th until the 16th of September, this emotionally charged production weaves a tapestry of love, loss and the unbreakable bonds of family, all set against the stunning backdrop of a weekend celebration by the riverside. With a delicate balance of humour and heart-wrenching moments, this play delves into the essence of human connection, offering a poignant exploration of life’s profound complexities. Prepare to be captivated by a cast that brilliantly portrays a range of gritty and multifaceted characters, making Half of the Sky a must-see event on this month’s cultural calendar.
Mozart 40
Prepare to be enraptured by the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra’s upcoming performance featuring Mozart’s Symphony No.40. Under the baton of conductor Eivind Aadland and accompanied by the virtuoso violinist Ilya Gringolts, the evening promises an unforgettable musical journey.
The programme also includes Andrea Tarrodi’s ‘Lucioles’, an enchanting tone-poem inspired by fireflies, and Prokofiev’s exhilarating ‘Violin Concerto No.1′, which showcases Gringolts’ dazzling talent. Mozart’s ‘Symphony No.40’, filled with urgency and passion, will transport audiences through its haunting melodies and moments of light, ultimately revealing a profound sense of tragedy and anguish. This is a night of music not to be missed, offering a blend of artistry and emotion that will leave a lasting impression.
Tim Finn
Tim Finn
In a highly-anticipated musical event, pre-eminent singer, songwriter and international artist, Tim Finn, is making a triumphant return to the stage in Auckland this September. Celebrating his illustrious career with The Lives and Times Of Tim Finn concert tour, Finn’s enduring legacy in Australian and New Zealand music takes centre stage once more. With a setlist spanning over four decades, the concert promises a mesmerising journey through the iconic hits of Split Enz, Crowded House and of course, his prolific solo career. This is a rare opportunity to witness a living legend in action, and promises to be a grand night out for all music enthusiasts.
Dirty Dancing in Concert
Take yourself back in time for a cinematic and musical extravaganza as the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra presents Dirty Dancing in Concert. This groundbreaking event offers a unique film-to-concert experience, featuring the digitally remastered classic film on a full-sized cinema screen. As you relive the timeless love story of Baby and Johnny set in the enchanting summer of 1963, a live band and singers will perform the iconic soundtrack that marked a generation. After the film, an encore party will keep the nostalgia alive, allowing you to sing and dance to your favourite songs from Dirty Dancing. This is an evening of pure, cinematic joy, not to be missed.
Nestled in the cosy space that formerly housed Alta , Flor is Karangahape Road’s newest wine bar, helmed by the man behind Everyday Wines — Dan Gillet. In fact, Gillet was involved as co-owner of Alta before Head Chef Georgia Van Prehn decided to make a change, giving him the opportunity to create something that was entirely his own. And so, Flor was born. “I felt there was a gap there, to open a dedicated wine bar, one where wines are the focus,” Gillet explains. “I wanted to showcase what we do at Everyday Wine and give people not just a place to buy our wines from, but a venue to drink them at, too.”
Here, wine certainly takes centre stage, with Gillet explaining that there are over 150 different varieties on offer, with a rotating selection of by-the-glass pour. Carefully selected, the wines pair perfectly with the delicious bites on offer on Flor’s interesting menu, created by Head Chef Tushar Grover and Sous Chef Josh Letele, both formerly of Parnell fine-dining institute, Pasture.
Right: Grilled Half of Snapper
“Both chefs come with extensive backgrounds in fine dining and high-end cuisine,” Gillet tells me, “but here, we are applying that expertise to wine bar-style food and snacks, and really taking things up a level.” Indeed, the food is an intriguing and delicious mix of flavours and textures, with dishes like hot fried octopus with mayo, tomato salad with peach and marigold, edamame congee, grilled lamb ‘tacos’ and grilled half-snapper with smoked butter. The idea, Gillet says, is to be approachable yet inventive, to push the boundaries without being too polarising. The menu will also be ever-changing, I’m told, which means that no two visits to Flor will ever be quite the same.
Left: Raw Fish
Inside, the long and narrow space is cosy and intimate, with a single line of comfortable seating down one side and extra seating in the courtyard out the back. It feels friendly, warm and atmospheric, easily filled up by buzzing voices and offering the sense of escape from the world that often makes smaller venues so appealing. “We want our guests to feel welcomed,” says Gillet. “We want Flor to feel like the kind of space that you can drop into for any occasion and feel looked after… to be a wine bar that is consistently good, not just occasionally great.”
Left: Tomato Salad Right: Grilled Lamb ‘Tacos’
As for the name, Gillet tells me that Flor comes from a rare yeast layer found on the tops of certain wines that have been left in a very specific set of conditions. Sometimes referred to as a ‘veil,’ once formed, a ‘flor’ protects its wine from further oxidising and can contribute massively to the flavour and aroma, helping to create incredibly interesting and unique drops. It feels fitting then, that this is the word over the door of this decidedly unique and gastronomically interesting new wine bar — a spot that we think everyone should have on their radar.
Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 4pm until 11:30pm 366krd.co.nz
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.
Baby G Burger ‘Oklahoma Dreaming’
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’s Power Lunch
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.
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.
Fisher & Paykel’s CoolDrawer™
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.
Fisher & Paykel’s DishDrawer™
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Right: Ortiz Anchovy
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.
Left: Ortiz Anchovy & Buckwheat Waffle
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).
Left: Délice de Bourgogne
“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
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.
Right: Char Siu Bao
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
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