Eye Magazine Winter 2026 30 year anniversary issue

30 Thank

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Crafted for Perfection. Designed for Today.

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Editor's Letter

WhenI sit down to write these words, it feels almost impossible to believe that Eye Magazine is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Thirty years ago, in 1996, we embarked on a journey fuelled by creativity, passion, determination, and perhaps a little blind faith. Looking back, thirty years sounds like a lifetime. Yet somehow it feels like it has passed in the blink of an eye.

Over those three decades there have been incredible highs, difficult challenges, countless deadlines, late nights, laughter, tears, celebrations, friendships, and so much love poured into every single issue. Through it all, one thing has never changed, our desire to keep learning, growing, and creating something better than we did yesterday.

That is why I love the philosophy of LSKD and their commitment to being 1% better every day. It perfectly reflects how we have approached Eye Magazine for the past three decades. Not chasing perfection, but striving to improve, innovate, evolve, and deliver more value with every edition. Small steps, taken consistently over time, create extraordinary results.

None of this would have been possible without our incredible clients. Many of you have been with us since the very beginning, supporting us year after year, issue after issue. Your trust, loyalty, and belief in what we do mean more than words can express. Some of our advertising partners have been part of the Eye Magazine family for nearly all thirty years, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

To our amazing team - past and present,thank you. Your creativity, commitment, talent, and energy have helped shape Eye Magazine into what it is today. Every story, photograph, event, feature, and page has been brought to life by people who genuinely care about excellence.

This special anniversary issue is packed with everything we love. From inspiring travel destinations and unforgettable dining experiences to luxury escapes, beauty, fashion, wellness, and the latest sports and lifestyle essentials. We hope you enjoy reading it as much as we enjoyed creating it.

And what a cover to celebrate this milestone. We are absolutely in love with our cover star, Hannah Bungay. Not only is she an extraordinary model who looks a million dollars, but she is also one of the loveliest people you could hope to meet. Beautiful inside and out, Hannah perfectly represents confidence, authenticity, and modern New Zealand style.

We are also thrilled to continue our popular Women to Watch feature, which returns with the highly anticipated Regent Seven Seas Cruises Women to Watch 2026 event at the Cordis Auckland on 2 October. This event continues to shine a spotlight on remarkable women doing remarkable things. A heartfelt thank you to Regent Seven Seas Cruises for their valued partnership and sponsorship. Tickets are available now via our website multimediamagazines.co.nz, and we cannot wait to celebrate with you.

As part of our 30th birthday celebrations, guests attending the event will enjoy a spectacular birthday cake created by the incredibly talented Mirella from Arte Della Pasta, with enough cake for 300 guests to share in the festivities.

Finally, be sure to skip to the back of the magazine and explore the many events, launches, fundraisers, and celebrations we've been privileged to create and support throughout the year. Bringing people together has always been at the heart of what we do. As we celebrate thirty years, we do so with immense gratitude. Thank you for reading, supporting, advertising, collaborating, attending our events, and believing in Eye Magazine.

Thirty years on, we're still learning, still creating, still dreaming, and still striving to be 1% better every day. Here's to the next chapter.

With gratitude,

Vanessa Bennett Editor & Publisher Eye Magazine

ThatiswhyIlovethephilosophyofLSKD andtheircommitmenttobeing1%better everyday.Itperfectlyreflectshowwehave approached Eye Magazine for the past three decades. Not chasing perfection, butstrivingtoimprove,innovate,evolve, anddelivermorevaluewitheveryedition. Smallsteps,takenconsistentlyovertime, createextraordinaryresults.

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PUBLISHER

Meyec Ltd

EDITOR

30 years

Vanessa Bennett | vanessa@eyemagazine.co.nz

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Cathy Kettell | cathy@eyemagazine.co.nz

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

Theresa Sjoquist | theresa@eyemagazine.co.nz

Helena Roza | helena@eyemagazine.co.nz

CITY LIVING MANAGER

Franceska Marsic | franceska@magazinepublishers.co.nz

LIFESTYLE AND EVENTS

Megan Prime | megan@magazinepublishers.co.nz

ACCOUNTS MANAGER

accounts@eyemagazine.co.nz

DESIGNER

Marija Snjegota

PHOTOGRAPHY

Norrie Montgomery Unsplash

CONTRIBUTORS

Cathy Kettell, Emily Rodgers, Carmyn Green, Bonnie Manly, Tama Choat

PROOF READER

Judi Green

DISTRIBUTION

EYE Magazine is distributed nationwide through business channels, nationwide subscribtions including Airline Lounges, premium hotels, and curated events.

Subscriptions are available via multimediamagazines.co.nz, iSubscribe, and Mags4Gifts.

You can also read EYE Magazine online at multimediamagazines.co.nz

facebook.com/eyemagazineltd

eye_magazine_nz

Cover Credits

• Model: Hannah Bungay

• Photography: Norrie Montgomery

• Stylist: Lulu Wilcox

• Hair and Makeup: Petra Rijnbeek from Skills Group

• Dress: Modes Newmarket

• Jewellery: Solitaire De Parnell

• Flowers: Rohi-Lab Flower Boutique

• Cake: Bluebells Cakery

• Cocktail: Lychee & Yuzu by Batched

• Location: Cordis Auckland

Terms & Conditions

Subscriptions are $17.00 for two issues, plus postage and handling. EYE Magazine is available online and distributed nationally and globally, including via select airlines and premium hotels. All content in EYE Magazine is protected by copyright. No part of this publication, whether text, images, or design may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. EYE Magazine reserves the right to edit or decline any editorial or advertising material at its discretion. By submitting content or advertising for publication, you grant EYE Magazine the right to publish, distribute, and promote that material across both print and digital platforms. Opinions expressed in EYE Magazine are those of the contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or Meyec Ltd. We take no responsibility for any materials submitted without prior agreement. Digital rights apply across all EYE Magazine platforms, including websites, email newsletters, and affiliated social media channels. Content may be repurposed or archived online unless otherwise agreed in writing.

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EYE Magazine! 30 YEARS OF

THREE DECADES OF STORIES, STYLE, CONNECTION AND COMMUNITY

In2026, EYE Magazine celebrates an extraordinary milestone - 30 years in print. Thirty years of storytelling. Thirty years of showcasing incredible people, businesses, destinations, fashion, beauty, travel, food, and culture. Thirty years of connecting with readers who have welcomed us into their homes, offices, coffee tables, waiting rooms and lives.

When EYE Magazine launched in 1996, the world looked very different. There were no smartphones, no social media feeds, and no endless scrolling. Magazines were treasured, shared, and collected. Fast forward three decades, and despite the digital revolution, something remarkable has happened, people are rediscovering the luxury of print.

In a world moving faster than ever, magazines have become a place to slow down. Recent studies show readers spend significantly longer engaging with print than digital content. They trust what they read, appreciate the quality of curated editorial, and enjoy the simple pleasure of turning pages. A magazine is intentional. It is tactile. It is beautiful. It is something to savour.

And perhaps that's why EYE has endured.

Over the years, we've had the privilege of telling thousands of stories. We've celebrated business success, highlighted charitable causes, launched events, supported local communities, and championed incredible women through our Women to Watch and What Women Want series.

We've watched brands grow from start-ups into household names. We've seen businesses weather economic storms and emerge stronger. We've interviewed inspiring leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, designers, and visionaries who have shaped New Zealand's landscape.

But beyond the pages, EYE has always been about people.

The clients who trusted us. The readers who supported us. The contributors who shared their stories. And the team who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring every issue to life.

There have been countless memories over the years. Last-minute deadlines, photo shoots that ran long into the evening, stories rewritten at midnight, frantic phone calls before print deadlines, and moments of pure joy when a finished issue finally arrived fresh off the press.

We've laughed together, celebrated together, and occasionally shed a few tears together too.

No publication reaches 30 years without an extraordinary team.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our incredible photographer, Norrie Montgomery, whose creative eye has captured some of our most memorable covers and editorial features. Thank you also to our talented stylist Lulu, whose ability to transform a vision into reality and helped us create our 30 year cover look.

Special thanks must go to Pascale and the team at Cordis Auckland, who have been long-standing supporters of EYE Magazine.

Over the years, the magnificent Suites have provided the backdrop for many of our favourite cover shoots, including this year's playful and celebratory 30th anniversary cover shot in the Chairmans Suite. And we have had many an event at the Cordis along with the editors wedding in 2017. Your generosity, partnership and friendship have meant the world to us.

The Cordis has become more than a venue; it has become part of the EYE story.

To our incredible representatives, Franceska and Theresa, thank you for your passion, professionalism, and dedication to our clients. To our Event Coordinator Megan, whose calm approach somehow turns ambitious ideas into successful events time and time again. To our Production Manager Cathy, whose positive and go-getter attitude and attention to detail keeps everything moving. And to our designer Marija, who often works long hours behind the scenes to ensure every page looks polished, beautiful and worthy of our readers - thank you. To Lewis, who likes to stay behind the scenes, a fantastic advisor and incredible support, thank you.

While readers see the finished product, they don't always see the countless hours, revisions, conversations and creative energy that happen behind the scenes. Every issue is a true team effort.

We also want to acknowledge the many talented staff, contributors, writers, designers, photographers, salespeople and supporters who have been part of the EYE journey over the last three decades. Whether you were with us for six months or six years, your contribution helped shape who we are today.

This year we are also proud to continue supporting the New Zealand Heart Foundation as our chosen charity partner. Giving back has always been important to us, and we look forward to raising both awareness and funds for this incredibly important organisation throughout the year.

And what better way to celebrate 30 years than with a cover we absolutely adore.

Our cover star, Hannah Bungay, perfectly embodies everything EYE Magazine stands for - confidence, beauty, authenticity, kindness and style. While Hannah undoubtedly looks a million dollars, what truly makes her special is who she is as a person. Warm, genuine, professional and endlessly positive, she brought incredible energy to this celebratory shoot and helped create a cover we will never forget.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to evolving, improving and serving our readers and clients with the same passion that inspired our first issue.

Like the philosophy of being 1% better every day, we believe growth comes from continually learning, listening and striving to improve.

Our hope is simple: to continue telling great stories, supporting great businesses, creating memorable events, championing remarkable women, and producing a magazine that people genuinely love to read.

We hope this special anniversary issue inspires you to travel more, dine well, look after your health, embrace beauty, support local businesses, and make time for the things that truly matter.

Most importantly, we hope it inspires you to slow down, pour a coffee, switch off your screen for a little while, and enjoy the simple luxury of reading a magazine.

To everyone who has been part of the EYE Magazine story over the past 30 years—thank you.

Here's to where we've been. Here's to where we're going. And here's to the next chapter.

With gratitude, Vanessa

Bennett

& the EYE Magazine Team Celebrating 30 Years • 1996–2026

30TH ANNIVERSARY COVER SHOOT

Model

Hannah Bungay

Photographer

Norrie Montgomery

Stylist

Lulu Wilcox

Hair and Make up

Petra Rijnbeek from Skills Group

Dress

Modes Newmarket

Jewellery

Solitaire De Parnell

Flowers

Rohi-Lab Flower Boutique

Cake

Bluebells Cakery

Cocktails

BATCHED Lychee & Yuzu

Location

Chairman's Suite

Cordis Auckland

Shoot Support Team

Franceska Marsic

Abi Tobia

Vanessa Bennett

Pascale Desrumaux

Milla Newbury

WOMEN TO WATCH

Celebrating Exceptional Women & Empowering Future Leaders

Welcome to another inspiring lineup for our Women to Watch series, where we celebrate the remarkable women who are making a difference in business, leadership, community and beyond. In this issue, we shine a spotlight on a new group of incredible women whose passion, determination and achievements continue to inspire not only us but those around them.

As women, we have a unique ability to encourage, support and uplift one another. We challenge ourselves to grow, strive for excellence and create opportunities, but perhaps our greatest strength lies in helping other women succeed alongside us. Business and life are journeys best travelled together, and when women support women, extraordinary things happen.

We are also excited to announce that our annual Regent Seven Seas Cruises Women to Watch in conjunction with Craigs Investment Partners lunch will be held at the beautiful Cordis Auckland on 2 October 2026. This special lunch brings together inspiring speakers, successful businesswomen and emerging leaders for a day of connection, learning and celebration. Tickets are available now through our website, multimediamagazines.co.nz/ pages/upcoming-events and we would love you to join us.

To the women featured in these pages, thank you for sharing your stories and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Your journeys remind us that success is not only about what we achieve, but also about how we lift others along the way

Rachel Lee

Natalie Newton

Sandra Quemba

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Women to Watch 2026: Dr Rachel Lee

As an Urgent Care Physician, accredited Skin Cancer Doctor and cosmetic medicine specialist at Ponsonby Doctors, Dr Rachel Lee has built a reputation for combining medical expertise with a thoughtful, modern approach to skin health and confidence. Fluent in English and Mandarin and with more than 14 years working across New Zealand’s hospitals and clinics, she understands that for many women, caring for their skin is about far more than appearance, it’s about confidence, wellbeing and showing up in the world at their best.

We spoke with Dr Lee about her journey, the treatments women are seeking today, and her advice for women balancing careers, families and personal wellbeing.

Q: What inspired you to move into skin health and cosmetic medicine?

My background is in urgent care and emergency medicine, so I’ve always enjoyed the fast-paced nature of helping people feel better quickly. Over time, I also developed a strong interest in plastic and reconstructive surgery, which naturally led me into skin cancer medicine and cosmetic treatments. What I love about this field is that it combines science, precision and artistry, but ultimately it’s about helping people feel confident in their own skin.

Q: You work with many professional women. What concerns are they most commonly coming to you with?

Many women today are incredibly busy running businesses, building careers, raising families and they want treatments that help them look refreshed without looking “done”. Skin quality is a big focus: improving texture, hydration and firmness rather than dramatic changes. Treatments that stimulate collagen, tighten skin and improve overall skin health are very popular because they deliver natural, long-term results.

Q: How important is confidence when it comes to appearance?

Confidence is everything. When women feel good about how they look, it often translates into how they present themselves in meetings, presentations or leadership roles. I see my role as helping women feel comfortable and confident, not changing who they are. The goal is always subtle enhancement looking like the best version of yourself.

Q: What treatments are women most interested in right now?

We’re seeing a big shift towards regenerative treatments that work with the body. Skin boosters, collagen stimulation and advanced laser technologies are becoming increasingly popular because they improve the quality of the skin over time. Many women are also interested in preventative treatments starting earlier and focusing on maintaining skin health rather than correcting more advanced ageing later.

Q: What advice would you give women navigating busy careers and life?

Firstly, don’t underestimate the importance of self-care. When life gets busy, it’s often the first thing to be neglected, but even small rituals can make a difference. Secondly, invest in your skin health early sun protection, good skincare and regular skin checks are essential. Prevention is always better than treatment. And finally, remember that confidence doesn’t come from perfection. It comes from feeling comfortable in your own skin and taking care of yourself in a way that supports your lifestyle and wellbeing.

Q: What does being named one of EYE’s Women to Watch mean to you?

It’s incredibly humbling. I feel very lucky to work in a field where I can help people every day whether that’s through medical care, skin cancer treatment or helping someone feel more confident. Supporting women to feel their best, both personally and professionally, is something I’m very passionate about.

Ponsonbydoctors.co.nz

Women to Watch 2026: Natalie Newton

New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty

Q: Natalie, what first drew you into real estate?

I’ve always loved people, homes, presentation, and the emotional connection people have with where they live. Real estate combines all of those things. I genuinely enjoy helping people through important life moments and creating exceptional results for them.

Q: You’ve become one of New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty’s top performing agents. What do you believe sets your approach apart?

I think people can feel authenticity. I care deeply about my clients and I work incredibly hard for them. Attention to detail, communication, strategy, and presentation are everything to me. I also bring a calm energy to what can often be a stressful process.

Q: Your background before real estate was very diverse. How has that shaped your career today?

My experience in luxury fashion, personal shopping, franchise management, and interior fit-outs gave me a strong understanding of presentation, customer experience, and quality. Those industries taught me how important details are and how to truly understand what people want.

Q: What do you love most about Auckland and the North Shore property market?

There’s such diversity in lifestyle here. From beautiful coastal homes to modern city living and family properties, every home has its own story. I love helping people connect with not just a house, but a lifestyle and future vision.

Q: What do today’s sellers need to understand about the current market?

Preparation and strategy matter more than ever. Buyers are very informed, so presentation, marketing, and pricing need to be right from the beginning. The strongest campaigns are always the ones that create emotional connection.

Q: You’ve won multiple industry awards. What do those achievements mean to you?

It’s incredibly rewarding because the awards reflect trust from my clients and consistency in results. But for me, the biggest reward is when clients come back or refer family and friends to me. That means everything.

Q: What are some golden nuggets you’ve learned in business?

Consistency matters more than perfection. Small actions done well every day build trust and momentum over time. I’ve also learned that relationships are everything, people remember how you make them feel long after the transaction is over.

Another important lesson is to never underestimate presentation, whether it’s in property, business, or personal branding. First impressions genuinely matter.

And finally, back yourself. Confidence grows through experience, preparation, and staying true to your values.

Q: What advice would you give women wanting to succeed in business or property?

Back yourself. Relationships, consistency, professionalism, and authenticity are incredibly powerful. You don’t need to change who you are to succeed, often your greatest strength is being genuinely yourself.

Q: What are your top tips for building strong client relationships?

Listen properly, communicate clearly, and always follow through. People want honesty and reliability. I believe being genuine, approachable, and available creates long term trust.

Q: How would you describe your personal style in both life and business?

Warm, polished, energetic, and people focused. I believe success comes from creating trust and making people feel comfortable and confident throughout the journey.

Q: What’s next for Natalie Newton?

Continuing to grow, evolve, and deliver exceptional experiences for my clients. I’m passionate about property, people, and building long term relationships, and I feel incredibly grateful to do something I truly love every day.

nzsothebysrealty.com/agents/ natalie-newton

Q: What first drew you to the world of finance and investing?

I was drawn to finance fairly early. During my university studies I discovered a genuine interest for capital markets and financial decisions. I participated in a Challenge organised by the Stock Exchange in Colombia, where I am from. Participants received a fictional $100 million in virtual Colombian Pesos to invest in the local market. The objective was to achieve the highest portfolio profitability during the given period. I finished up in second place receiving a monetary reward. It awoke my interest in investment and financial decision-making and how they impact our lives.

My background in engineering gave me a natural analytical foundation, problem solving, numbers, systems thinking and decision making. Over time, what kept me in the industry was the ability to help people make meaningful life decisions with confidence. Finance appealed because it sits at the intersection of logic and human behaviour. Investing is not only about money, it is about freedom, options, security and peace of mind.

Women to Watch 2026: Sandra Quemba Craigs Investment Partners

Economies and markets go through cycles - good and difficult times. This requires a more strategic approach, a slightly elevated perspective, awareness of emotional and human basic behaviour, and alignment with our true intentions. Financial advice has built in capacity over time to assist investors through these cycles and provide some emotional steadiness.

Q: Over your career, what has been one of the biggest shifts you’ve seen in investor behaviour?

One of the biggest changes has been the sheer volume of information investors now consume, media, social platforms, constant commentary. People are more engaged than ever, which is positive, but they’re also exposed to a lot more noise. The real challenge today is helping clients stay grounded, filter out distraction and make decisions that fit their long-term goals rather than the emotion of the moment. The shift from “what stock is good to buy today” to “what should I invest in that fits my long-term goals, lifestyle and values” has also occurred.

Q: What are some common misconceptions people have about wealth building or investing?

Wealth building is not about getting rich quickly. It is not reserved for “finance people”. Investing is not just about choosing the right product, it is about behaviour, discipline and consistency. A lot of people believe they need to wait until they have a large sum of money, when in reality good habits matter more than perfect timing. And you can start where you are, if you have a plan. Another point is around “safety”. Some people feel that keeping the money in the bank or in Term Deposits is a “safe” decision. It is true that the nominal value of your investment may not decrease whilst you receive some interest from it.

However, the value of your money may not keep pace with inflation, so the spending power of your money is quietly eroding over time.

Q: What are some golden nuggets you’ve learned in business?

When you start, it is difficult not to compare yourself to already established models or successful stories. Take that as a starting or reference point but always check what would be true to your plan, intention and reflective of your own values. Financial advice is founded on clients’ trust and relies on long term relationships. In this regard, I have learnt that relationships matter more than short-term wins. Trust is built with time, from doing nothing but from those daily small intentional decisions and actions that reflect your integrity and always care for the client. Reputation compounds.

Personal growth never stops. I feel that career advancements and business growth are supported by stretching yourself. Setting goals, having plans that look like a challenge will force you to find ways to get there, to bridge the gap, to take you from where you are to that new level. You will face setbacks, which will help you clarify what is right for your business. I have found great mentors along the way, if you find them, be open to absorb but filter through your nest of values and intentions.

Q: What advice would you give women wanting to succeed in business or investments?

Build capability, not just confidence. The former will help the latter. If you need to deepen your understanding of numbers, whether in business, or investment, find ways to do it, financial literacy is power. Women often underestimate how transferable their strengths are, judgement, communication, intuition,

resilience. This provides you with a solid foundation for any business or investment decision, one that isn’t rushed or pretentious, one that is rooted on a more conscientious approach. We all have a particular relationship with money. It is personal, it is our own, influenced by our upbringing, culture, family values, situational environment. This has an impact on how we perceive money, its function, its use, its potential. Understanding what that means to us can help us qualify what needs to change to propel us forward.

Q: What are your top tips for building strong client relationships?

When I first started, I wasn’t sure I knew the right people or enough people. It took strategic thinking, work and consistency to find groups, networks, environments where I would first meet people to then move to start developing a business relationship with some of them. Find what those would be in your line of business. When interacting with people, listen carefully. There is a lot to be discovered in what people say but also their behaviour. It is easy to get lost in technology and social connections through a screen. I still advocate for face-to-face interactions. They are the best way to build true and meaningful relationships in life and in business. Make efforts to meet face to face and then have a plan to maintain contact through other means.

Q: How would you describe your personal style in both life and business?

Quiet achiever seems to resonate on both. I am very disciplined in how I go about doing things. That sometimes sees me put too much pressure on myself, but I have learnt to take my foot off the gas at times.

My confidence steams from putting in the work and taking the time and the space to consider how I am being. This fuels my day with intention. I have routines in my life, related to life and work. They include meditation, exercise, studying, reading and planning. This keeps my mind from running anxious and channels my energy and actions towards more useful activities. I can remain calm under pressure, which helps in my line of work. But this continues to be a learning process in life.

Q: What’s next for Sandra Quemba?

Leadership comes to mind as I read this question. There comes a stage when you feel like things around you are shifting and asking more from you. I do know that new stages ask different things from you. I feel that I will continue to evolve as a person and as an adviser, deepening the impact with clients as well as people around me. I have benefited from mentors in my life, and supporting networks, and I have always looked to pay this forward. Therefore, my actions and involvement in causes and communities I believe in will be important aspects of stretching myself to be a leader.

craigsip.com/team-member/sandra-quemba

This profile is general in nature and is not financial advice. Before making any investment decisions Craigs Investment Partners recommends you contact an investment adviser. Craigs Investment Partners Limited is a NZX Participant firm. The Craigs Investment Partners Limited Financial Advice Provider Disclosure Statement and Sandra's Disclosure Statement can be viewed at craigsip.com/tcs Visit craigsip.com

SOULFUL BEGINNING

Some businesses are created to sell a product. Others are born from something far deeper love, loss, healing and hope. Solace Studio is one of those rare brands that carries a story within every piece created.

Founded from personal grief and a desire to reconnect with meaning, Solace Studio began after the loss of its founder Maria Estefany Ayra Romero Mondez's father - Hipolito Ramos Mondez in 2015. While time moves forward, grief often stays quietly beside us, reshaping who we are and how we see the world. In the silence that followed such profound loss, creativity became both refuge and release.

The name “Solace” itself feels soft and grounding, a word that speaks to comfort, calm and emotional connection. What started as a deeply personal outlet slowly transformed into something much greater. Through working with texture, form, clay and fibre, the studio became a place where emotion could be expressed without words; where healing could exist through creating.

But the story of Solace doesn’t end with grief. It also speaks to motherhood, sacrifice and the universal longing to be close to the people we love most. Building a future while balancing family life inspired the founder to create something sustainable, heartfelt and deeply intentional, a business that allows creativity and connection to coexist.

Every handcrafted piece from Solace Studio carries a quiet sense of emotion within it: a daughter’s remembrance, a mother’s hope and a woman’s resilience. There is warmth in the imperfections, honesty in the textures and a feeling that each creation has been made not only by hand, but by heart. Solace Studio invites people to slow down and surround themselves with objects that feel meaningful.

It is more than a creative studio, it is a reminder that beauty can emerge from even life’s hardest moments, and that sometimes the things we create for ourselves end up comforting others too. If you are unable to see their studio in person in Parnell, you can go online and purchase a piece to paint. For those discovering Solace Studio for the first time, expect more than beautiful pieces. Expect a feeling.

solacestudio.co.nz

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A SUPERIOR WAY TO SAIL

With the World’s Most Luxurious Fleet® comprising of six award-winning ships to discover, guests can expect nothing less than extraordinary, where every detail of their journey will be effortlessly taken care of. As a trusted leader in the cruising world catering solely to the ultra-luxury traveller, booking with Regent Seven Seas Cruises means that fares are always without any hidden charges.

All-inclusive means just that and there are no caveats, only perks to early bookers who take advantage of the privileges. It's easy to see why so many are choosing to sail with Regent in lieu of their own private yacht. Journeying to more than 550 destinations worldwide across the seven continents, Regent offers immersive itineraries tailored to each season and region within the comfort of your own spacious suite. The world as they say is undeniably your oyster.

Explore the Mediterranean Sea and experience Malta, Spain and Italy on 7- or 16-night itineraries with a private butler curating your personalised and all-inclusive adventure when you choose to book a Penthouse Suite. Live out your dream of sunbathing carelessly on the beaches of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico or tour the Grand Bahama Island by Jeep safari, you decide how you want to elevate your journey, your way.

INCLUDED & UNLIMITED SHORE EXCURSIONS

While it is hard to pull yourself away from the state-of-the-art amenities and luxuries found on board, it pays to fully immerse yourself in the port destinations you visit to feed your wanderlust. Guests have unlimited shore excursions to choose from, spanning from Buenos Aires to Sydney and all the way to Tokyo and Papeete in Tahiti – and with thousands of excursions included in the cruise fare, they will surely take the curious-minded traveller to far-flung destinations for unforgettable cultural immersion.

Depending on what kind of holiday experience you are looking for, the adventurous can set sail on expeditions in the Amazon, while wellness-seekers are invited to find serenity against the backdrop of the Emerald Islands of Corfu or Taormina, the ancient Baths of the Popes that spark instant rejuvenation.

DINE IN STYLE

Gastronomes are in for a definite treat too, and can relish in the culinary-focused shore excursions which are exclusively curated by the Regent team of concierges. Join a scenic boat tour of Lake Albufera’s rice fields before enjoying a masterclass in making authentic Valencian paella. Whiskey lovers should not miss out on a chance to visit Invergordon in Scotland for an award-winning haggis and whiskey programme – but if staying on board is what you crave instead, culinary excellence is guaranteed. Regent invites you to indulge in the multiple included speciality dining options available on all six world-class ships, as well as open-seating restaurants catering to every palate, with excellent cocktail and wine lists available for the self-professed oenophile at sea.

Flexibility and comfort are priorities for Regent Seven Seas Cruises, meaning reservations in the open dining venues are not necessary and each guest is treated as VIP and always guaranteed a table. Guests can also choose to reserve speciality dining options, reminiscent of a Michelin-starred restaurant, these include authentic French fare, Italian trattorias a Nonna would be proud to cook in, and Asian-Fusion eateries reflective of those found in the world’s trendiest food cities.

For more information call 0800 625 692

Visit RSSC.com Or contact your travel advisor

Experience Auckland from a new perspective with WW Yacht, a premium 28 metre luxury motor yacht available for private charters, corporate events, celebrations and overnight escapes.

Designed for comfort, privacy and unforgettable moments, WW Yacht offers a refined way to explore the Waitematā Harbour, Hauraki Gulf and surrounding islands. With space for up to 45 guests for day charters and accommodation for up to 8 guests overnight, it is the ideal setting for entertaining clients, celebrating milestones or hosting an exclusive event on the water.

Every charter can be tailored with catering, drinks and destination options, while the experienced crew deliver a seamless experience from start to finish.

Recent Client Testimonial:

“A really incredible experience. Ben and the team at WW Yacht took fantastic care of us all. With a large business and 40+ staff, finding a suitable all inclusive venue can be a challenge. However, with WW Yacht, the Christmas Party we planned turned out to be absolutely perfect.”

For those seeking a private, premium and memorable experience, WW Yacht offers luxury on the water at its finest.

Williams Corporation is one of New Zealand’s leading residential property developers, creating high quality, well located homes designed for modern living, long term value and strong investment appeal.

To date, Williams Corporation has delivered over 2,200 homes and achieved over $1.3 billion in sales, reflecting a proven track record across the New Zealand property market. More than a developer, Williams Corporation has built a connected property ecosystem to support buyers, owners, investors and tenants. Enquire today to find out more:

With a focus on innovation, quality and customer experience, Williams Corporation continues to create homes and communities built for the future.

With a premium selection of properties available across New Zealand, Williams Corporation offers opportunities for every stage of the property journey. From stylish city apartments to modern townhouses in high demand locations, each home is thoughtfully designed, beautifully finished and positioned for lifestyle, convenience and long term value.

FROM CAREGIVING TO CRISIS

A Midwife’s Inspiring Fight for Survival

After decades of nurturing the health and wellbeing of others, Denise’s life took a terrifying turn when she was struck by a heart attack. As a nurse and midwife, Denise knew exactly what the ‘do’ and ‘do nots’ of a heart-healthy lifestyle looked like. She was active, an avid horse rider, and had no reason to think there was any problem with her heart.

But one Sunday morning in November 2024, a strange pain in her teeth signalled the start of a fight for her own life.

“There was a very intense pain in my front two teeth, which was bizarre. The sensation was enough for me to say to my partner ‘Steve, I think you should call an ambulance.’” Despite her initial reaction to call 111, Denise hesitated, decided to take an aspirin and carried on with her day. She was then booked in for an ECG and stress test. After booking in for an ECG, Denise thought she’d aced her stress test, but the cardiologist said “We want to get you in for an angiogram as soon as possible. We're not very happy about this.”

By the time of her angiogram in January, the alarm bells were ringing. That’s when she received the news she never expected to hear – she needed heart bypass surgery. Denise’s story is sadly far more common than one might expect. Heart disease takes the life of 55 women each week – it's certainly not an ‘old man’s disease’. It can impact those you least expect.

During the process of organising her bypass surgery, there was a day where Denise began to feel rather unwell at work. She made a phone call to a cardiac rehab nurse: “I haven't got pain in my arm. I don't have pain in my chest. I don't have pain in my jaw. I don't have any of those things, but I just don't feel quite right.”

The nurse called an ambulance, and Denise was whisked away to hospital. It was revealed she had suffered a heart attack. “The doctor told me I’m considered unstable and would need urgent surgery. He said we need to get onto this now.”

But it wasn’t as simple as getting Denise into a surgical theatre. She faced a choice: stay on the public waitlist with no immediate surgery date, or go private, which meant returning home for a while.

Neither choice was perfect, but she ultimately chose the private route. “I had to stay alive for 10 days. Those 10 days were very worrying.” Fortunately, Denise’s quadruple bypass surgery was a success.

She feels so fortunate to be alive to tell her tale – and to raise vital awareness about heart health in New Zealand. “When you think of cardiac patients, you think of unfit people that are overweight. That couldn’t be further from the truth. “If you’re crook, unwell, or just not feeling right, go and get yourself checked over. The amount of excuses I made for myself… There's no harm in getting a full top to toe check.”

Every day, kind New Zealanders help those living with heart disease – like Denise –through their support of the Heart Foundation. Whether it is through fundraising, a generous gift or by purchasing a Heart Foundation Home Lottery ticket, this support makes life-saving heart research possible.

The Winter Warm-Up

FROM CANVAS TO COUTURE

A Vision by

Soni Sandhu

Soni Sandhu introduces a bold new perspective on fashion, transforming fine art by Alvin Pankhurst into limited edition couture. Designed to move with the body, each garment reinterprets original artworks through fluid silhouettes, pure silks, and intricate detailing. The collection bridges the worlds of art and fashion, where brushstrokes evolve into form, texture, and movement.

This is not just a collection. It is an artistic transformation.

BRAVO AT CRACKER BAY

Auckland's New Waterfront Favourite

There is something magical about dining by the water. The gentle movement of the harbour, the warmth of the sun on your face and the feeling that, for a few hours at least, life can slow down. At Bravo at Cracker Bay, Auckland's newest waterfront destination, that feeling is part of the experience. Known as a true sun trap, Bravo at Cracker Bay enjoys all day sunshine, making it the perfect place to settle in, relax and soak up the best of Auckland's waterfront lifestyle.

Perched over the water with spectacular views across the Waitematā Harbour, Bravo at Cracker Bay has quickly become a destination for locals and visitors seeking great food, exceptional wine and a vibrant coastal atmosphere. From morning coffee to long lunches and sunset dinners, Bravo at Cracker Bay captures the essence of Auckland's love affair with the sea. The energy is always inviting, with a lively yet relaxed ambience that makes every visit feel like a joyous occasion.

The menu celebrates contemporary New Zealand cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and beautifully prepared local seafood. Whether you're gathering friends for breakfast, sharing a leisurely lunch or settling in for an evening meal, every dish is designed to be enjoyed alongside the stunning harbour backdrop. As day turns to evening, guests are treated to some of Auckland's most beautiful sunsets, creating a truly memorable dining experience.

Wine lovers will appreciate the opportunity to discover the exclusive Ayrburn wine range, carefully selected to complement Bravo at Cracker Bay's menu and elevate every occasion. Pair a crisp glass of wine with fresh seafood and it's easy to understand why guests often find themselves staying longer than planned.

Bravo at Cracker Bay is also an exceptional venue for functions and events. Whether you're planning a corporate gathering, milestone celebration, birthday, engagement party or private event, the stunning waterfront setting, flexible spaces and outstanding hospitality provide the perfect setting. With spectacular harbour views, delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere, every event feels effortlessly memorable.

Bravo at Cracker Bay also embraces family dining. A dedicated children's play area, arcade games and a thoughtfully designed kids' menu ensure younger guests are just as well catered for as the adults. It's a welcoming space where families can relax and enjoy quality time together.

Arriving by boat? Bravo at Cracker Bay's innovative Book-a-Berth service allows guests to sail in, tie up and step straight into one of Auckland's most exciting dining experiences. It's a uniquely Kiwi way to enjoy a meal and perfectly reflects the venue's connection to the harbour.

For those in a hurry, Bravo Go offers takeaway coffee, cabinet favourites and the restaurant's already famous rotisserie chicken.

Stylish yet relaxed, sophisticated yet welcoming, Bravo at Cracker Bay is a place to gather, celebrate and savour the very best of Auckland waterfront living. Whether you're soaking up the sunshine, enjoying a glass of wine at sunset, hosting a special event or arriving by boat for a long lunch, Bravo at Cracker Bay invites you to stay a little longer and enjoy the view.

crackerbay.nz/bravo/ 9 Westhaven Drive, Auckland CBD | 09 275 0290

Sunday - Wednesday 8am - 9pm Thursday - Saturday 8am - 11pm

PHOTO CREDIT: DIOR

Wool and silk jacket with silk braided loops on the collar and cuffs

Wool

PHOTO CREDIT: DIOR

nikkirtaylor.com

nationwidebooks.co.nz

EYE READS

A Grave Mistake by Steffanie Holmes

$39.99

A Grave Mistake by Steffanie Holmes (2026) is a cozy, spicy paranormal romance following Arabella Lestrange, a vampire dancer who discovers her former lover, Gideon Blake, alive and transformed into a vampire 150 years after betraying her in Paris. In a town full of secrets, her meddling book club tries to reunite the pair.

Is

This It? by Nikki Taylor

$39.95

Is This It? Essential Lessons to Navigating Midlife Confusion with Confidence by Auckland based author and coach Nikki Taylor is a guide for professionals, especially women aged 35 to 55, navigating midlife transitions, burnout, and career changes with practical strategies for redefining success and confidence.

whitcoulls.co.nz

Remodelling Murder by Nic Scanlan-Dyas

$34.99

The family wants the mansion remodelled so it resembles what it might have looked like in 1919. The murder victim, who seems to have been killed with a distinctive Japanese wooden mallet, is Simon Roberts, the CEO of a struggling design firm tasked with the oddly specific remodelling job.

whitcoulls.co.nz

The Valley by Asher Emanuel

$39.99

The Valley follows the lives of two repeat offenders and their overwhelmed legal aid lawyer in New Zealand’s Hutt Valley. Through real life stories, the book explores addiction, poverty, crime, and the failures of the justice system, offering a raw and human look at people trapped in cycles of offending and hardship.

Orchids & Camellias by Sophie Rogers

$36.99

Nelson, New Zealand, 1869. Ginny Yang is on the run from her murderous, Chinese-hating father. Newly widowed and carrying a child, Ginny must fight to build a future for herself and her unborn baby in a world filled with prejudice, danger, and uncertainty. As she searches for safety, Ginny is forced to confront the hardships of life in colonial New Zealand alone.

One

Lady Owner by Sandy Myhre

$33.95

Why do women often take a man when buying a car, and why are they still underrepresented in motorsport? One Lady Owner explores these questions through a humorous and insightful look at cars and racing, offering readers a thoughtful understanding of both the industry and the sport.

AN INDIAN WEDDING

Fewcelebrations in the world compare to an Indian wedding. It is a multi-day experience rich in tradition, symbolism and joy. Rooted in centuries-old customs, each moment carries meaning, blending family, culture and ceremony into something unforgettable.

For Prabhdeep and Gursimran, their wedding in Kotkapura, Punjab, India, was a beautiful reflection of this. A celebration grounded in tradition and expressed with refined, modern elegance. The festivities began in true celebratory fashion with pre-wedding rituals. The mehendi brought vibrant energy, as intricate henna designs were applied to the bride’s hands and feet, surrounded by music, laughter and anticipation. This was followed by the sangeet, an evening where both families came together through dance and shared joy, setting the tone for the days ahead.

On the wedding day, the groom’s arrival, known as the baraat, was filled with excitement and movement. A lively procession of family and friends created a moment that felt both theatrical and deeply meaningful.

The ceremony itself was a traditional Sikh Anand Karaj, centred on spirituality, simplicity and sacred values. In Sikh weddings, the union takes place in the presence of Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, rather than around a sacred fire. Prabhdeep and Gursimran performed the Laavan, walking together as each verse was recited, symbolising their spiritual journey and commitment to one another. This distinction is important, as the ritual of circling a sacred fire, known as the saat phere, belongs to Hindu wedding traditions.

Set within a serene and thoughtfully styled space, the ceremony was visually soft and elegant. Cascading florals in delicate pinks and ivories, paired with natural greens, created an atmosphere of calm, grace and reverence. It was an intimate gathering, filled with warmth, love and family.

The bride wore exquisite ensembles designed by New Zealand based designer Soni Sandhu, each piece reflecting timeless elegance through intricate detailing and rich cultural influence.

The groom complemented her look in a classic sherwani by a local Punjab based designer, embracing understated tradition and quiet sophistication. Following the ceremony, celebrations continued in true Indian fashion, with guests coming together to honour the couple through food, music and dance. Beyond the beauty and scale, what defined this wedding was its depth of meaning. It was a coming together of families, a celebration of heritage, and a reminder that marriage is not just the union of two people, but a shared spiritual journey.

The List

*Results from consumer testing on 20 people. Individua l results may vary.

Crafted for Those Who Never Settle JAISS Fashion creates bespoke menswear and womenswear designed to command attention, from custom suits and wedding couture to refined eveningwear and modern corporate styling. Rooted in Indian craftsmanship and shaped by contemporary New Zealand elegance, every garment is tailored with intention, individuality and impeccable detail.

JAISS FASHION LTD

Where Precision Meets Personal Style

Ina world increasingly dominated by fast fashion and off the rack convenience, Jaiss Fashion Ltd stands apart as a brand rooted in craftsmanship, precision, and individuality. Based in Onehunga, Auckland, the company has built a strong reputation for bespoke tailoring that blends global manufacturing expertise with personalised service.

Founded in 2010 by Rakesh Jaiswal, Jaiss Fashion Ltd is a story of determination, skill, and a deep respect for the art of tailoring. What began as a passion project has grown into a recognised name in New Zealand’s bespoke fashion scene, offering tailor made garments for both men and women.

A Journey Built on Craft and Resilience

Rakesh Jaiswal’s path into fashion was anything but conventional. Originally from India, his early exposure to textiles came through his family’s scarf manufacturing business, which supplied international markets across Europe and the United States. This experience gave him a strong understanding of fabrics, production, and design from an early age.

After moving to New Zealand, he pursued formal training in fashion design while working in hospitality to support himself. During this time, he began designing suits for friends and colleagues, slowly building a loyal client base through word of mouth.

That grassroots beginning laid the foundation for Jaiss Fashion Ltd. Initially operating from home, Jaiswal managed every part of the business, from consultations through to design, while utilising manufacturing expertise in India. This model allowed him to maintain high quality craftsmanship while gradually expanding.

The Art of Bespoke Tailoring

At the core of Jaiss Fashion is a belief that tailoring is both a science and an art. Each garment is created through a structured yet highly personalised process. Clients begin with a consultation, followed by precise measurements, fabric selection, and fittings before the final piece is delivered. This attention to detail ensures that every garment is tailored not only to fit the body but also to reflect the wearer’s personality and lifestyle.

From classic business suits to wedding attire and tuxedos, Jaiss offers a wide range of bespoke options designed to stand out.

The brand highlights the difference between custom tailoring and ready made clothing. While off the rack garments are produced for mass appeal, Jaiss garments are individually crafted, allowing for greater precision in fit, fabric choice, and finishing.

Global Reach, Local Presence

Although firmly established in Auckland, Jaiss Fashion operates with a global outlook. The business maintains manufacturing connections in India and has experience working with international markets. This global integration allows the brand to combine traditional craftsmanship with modern production capability The showroom in Onehunga serves as the brand’s local hub, where clients can experience the full bespoke journey from consultation to final fitting. Over time, it has become a destination for custom suits, particularly within the wedding and formalwear space.

Innovation and Accessibility

One of the defining moments in the company’s growth came through early adoption of online deal platforms, which helped introduce the brand to a wider audience and generate strong demand. This demonstrated both the appeal of bespoke tailoring and the brand’s willingness to adapt to modern marketing approaches. Today, Jaiss positions itself as both premium and accessible. With competitive entry pricing for tailored suits, the company makes custom clothing more attainable while maintaining a strong focus on quality.

Craftsmanship with a Personal Touch

What truly sets Jaiss Fashion Ltd apart is its commitment to the client experience. Each garment tells a story of craftsmanship, individuality, and collaboration. Whether it is a groom preparing for his wedding day or a professional refining their wardrobe, the process is designed to feel personal and considered. For Jaiswal, tailoring remains a discipline defined by precision and creativity. Creating a suit requires an understanding of structure, movement, and balance, far beyond simply stitching fabric together.

Looking Ahead

As the fashion industry continues to evolve, Jaiss Fashion Ltd is well positioned to meet the growing demand for personalised, high quality clothing. Its combination of global expertise, local service, and dedication to craftsmanship ensures it remains relevant in a competitive market.

In an era where individuality is increasingly valued, Jaiss offers something rare. Clothing that is not just worn, but experienced.

jaiss.co.nz

RESTORING CONFIDENCE

A Conversation with Dr Katarzyna Mackenzie, Plastic Surgeon | Visage Plastic Surgery Auckland.

“The body says what words cannot.”

- Martha Graham

There are seasons in a woman’s life that leave their mark. Pregnancy, motherhood, menopause. Not only in memory, but in the body. For many, the transformation is profound: strength gained, identity reshaped, priorities rewritten. And yet, the physical changes that follow can sometimes feel unfamiliar, as if the mirror is speaking a language that no longer matches the woman standing in front of it.

Dr Katarzyna Mackenzie, an Auckland-based plastic surgeon, is known for her calm, considered approach to breast and abdominal surgery. Her work is quietly powerful, not about reinvention, but restoration. We spoke with her about the rising interest in the “mummy makeover” and the “menopause makeover,” and why, when done well, it has very little to do with perfection and everything to do with alignment.

Q: Dr Mackenzie, what exactly is a mummy or menopause makeover?

A: A mummy or menopause makeover is a combination of procedures designed to restore the body following pregnancy, weight fluctuations and hormonal change. Most commonly, it focuses on the abdomen, such as a tummy tuck, and the breasts, whether that’s a lift, augmentation or reduction. In some cases, it may also include liposuction or elements of facial rejuvenation. The key is that it’s never a set package; it’s tailored to the individual.

Q: Why do so many women consider this type of surgery?

A: Because some changes simply don’t respond to discipline. The skin and muscles of the anterior abdominal wall are stretched during pregnancy or due to weight changes. Many women come in after years of “doing everything right,” training consistently, eating well, caring for their health, and still feeling held back by loose skin, loss of support, or a shape that no longer reflects how they feel inside. It can be subtle, but it affects everything: how clothes sit, how freely they move, how confident they feel. Surgery can address what lifestyle alone can’t, and in doing so, restore confidence.

Q: You often speak about confidence, please tell us how does this procedure impact that?

A: Confidence is at the heart of it. Many women feel strong and capable in life, yet disconnected from their body after children or major hormonal change. This type of surgery isn’t about perfection, it’s about alignment: helping someone feel like themselves again. When a woman feels comfortable in her body, that confidence tends to ripple into every part of her life.

Q: Is it about weight loss?

A: No, and it’s an important distinction. Procedures like a tummy tuck or liposuction aren’t designed for weight loss; they’re designed for contouring. We’re tightening the abdominal wall where needed, removing excess skin, and refining the silhouette. Liposuction can be used to enhance shape in selected areas, but it’s not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle, it’s the finishing work, not the foundation.

Q: Who is the ideal candidate?

A: The best candidates are women in good general health, at a stable weight, and ideally finished having children. Smoking is a major factor because it can significantly compromise healing. I personally do not operate on patients who smoke or vape. Most importantly, patients should have realistic expectations and feel clear on what they’re hoping to achieve, and why.

Q: What should patients know about recovery?

A: Recovery varies, but most patients need around two to three weeks away from work, and should avoid heavy lifting for about six weeks. Gentle movement is encouraged early, and most normal exercise can resume after six weeks, depending on progress. Following post-operative guidance closely makes an enormous difference to comfort, healing and results.

Q: What would you say to someone considering a mummy or menopause makeover?

A: Do your research, and choose a qualified plastic surgeon you trust. This is a personal decision, and patients should feel supported, informed and never rushed. When it’s done with care, with the right patient, the right plan, and the right timing, it can be genuinely empowering. At its core, a mummy or menopause makeover is about more than physical change. It’s about restoring ease, confidence and a sense of self, because when you feel good in your body, it quietly elevates everything.

visageplasticsurgery.co.nz

Dr Katarzyna Mackenzie specialises in breast and body surgery, including tummy tuck, breast lift, augmentation, reduction, body contouring procedures, as well as skin cancer management.

LIST OF PROCEDURES

Breast:

Breast reduction

Breast lift

Breast augmentation

Breast implant removal/replacement

Breast asymmetry correction

Fat transfer to breast

Body

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)

Mummy makeover

Arm lift

Thighs lift

Labiaplasty

C-section scar revision

Body lift

Face

Blepharoplasty (upper eyelid lift)

Lip lift

Skin cancer management

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

The New Science Of Staying Strong, Sharp And Well | By Dr Joanna Romanowska, Clinic42

A New Era in Cosmetic and Regenerative Medicine

When I began practising cosmetic and appearance medicine well over two decades ago, our focus was solely on the surface - improving skin quality, softening lines and restoring volume. Over time, working with thousands of patients at Clinic 42, it became clear that true rejuvenation goes far deeper. How our muscles function, how our tissues repair themselves and how our bodies respond to stress and ageing plays a profound role in how we look and feel. This is where regenerative medicine has become an exciting evolution in our field.

At Clinic 42, we’ve always been early adopters of new technologies that genuinely improve patient outcomes. Among the most transformative tools we use today are the Emsculpt and Emsella devices, along with stem cell therapy—technologies that are reshaping how we think about ageing, wellness and long-term vitality.

Muscle:

The Overlooked

Foundation of Youth

We often think of youthfulness in terms of skin quality or facial structure, but muscle health is one of the strongest indicators of how well we age. Muscles not only support posture, balance, metabolic function and mobility, they also protect our joints, stabilise our core, and even influence our brain health. Yet many people struggle to build or maintain muscle due to injury, surgery, illness, chronic pain, postpartum changes, or simply the demands of busy lives.

Research shows that strengthening the abdominal core muscles can reduce visceral fat by around 20%. Visceral fat, the internal fat surrounding our organs, is strongly linked with inflammation, cardiovascular disease and metabolic dysfunction. Reducing it has major health benefits.

The Brain - Muscle Connection

One of the most fascinating areas of research involves the link between leg strength and brain health. Strengthening and using big muscles like the quadriceps and hamstrings doesn’t just improve mobility; it increases brain circulation and stimulates the release of BDNF, brain derived neurotrophic factor.

BDNF acts like fertiliser for the brain. It helps prevent brain shrinkage, supports memory and encourages the growth of new neural connections. The lactic acid produced during intense muscle activation is one of the triggers for BDNF release. In simple terms, working your legs helps keep your brain switched on and may even reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

How Emsculpt and Emsella Fit into Regenerative Medicine

At Clinic 42, we use devices that allow patients to strengthen muscles while lying or sitting comfortably on a treatment bed or chair. The technology induces thousands of supramaximal contractions, far beyond what we can achieve voluntarily, without stressing joints, tendons or ligaments. There is no cortisol driven “fight or flight” response, making it ideal for those recovering from injury, surgery or prolonged illness.

After four weekly sessions, patients typically achieve results equivalent to several months of intensive physiotherapy or gym based training of the targeted muscles. The treatment also helps release stiffened connective tissue, relax muscle spasm and improve mobility, which may ease certain pain syndromes. For those unable to do traditional core exercises like sit-ups due to injury, hernias, rectus sheath weakness, or diastasis recti, this targeted method offers a safe and effective alternative. Emsella, which focuses on pelvic floor strengthening, has been equally transformative, particularly for postpartum women and those experiencing pelvic floor weakness or bladder concerns.

The Future: Stem Cell Based Regeneration

Alongside these technologies, Clinic 42’s established stem cell therapy represents another exciting frontier in regenerative medicine. Early research shows promising benefits for joint and tissue repair, reduced inflammation, cellular rejuvenation, and improvements in some illnesses. While the field is still evolving, we expect to see more integration between stem cell based therapies and neuromuscular technologies like Emsculpt, offering a powerful, holistic way to support long term health.

Staying Young, Healthy and Switched On

If your goal is to remain strong, sharp and energised as you age, muscle health must be part of the conversation. The science is clear: strengthening the core and leg muscles is one of the most powerful things you can do for your metabolic health, mobility and cognitive function. At Clinic 42, our aim is simple, to use the best evidence based tools available to help your body do what it was designed to do: repair, renew and thrive at every age.

clinic42.co.nz

DERMALIS AT PONSONBY DOCTORS

The Art of Modern Aesthetic Excellence

The beauty world is changing, and beauty is increasingly being defined by subtlety, confidence, and authenticity, Dermalis is quietly shaping a new standard for aesthetic medicine in New Zealand with Dr Rachel Lee at Ponsonby Doctors at the centre of this evolution.

Following the work of Dr Lee, Dermalis represents more than a portfolio of treatments. It is a philosophy of care bringing the world’s most advanced aesthetic technologies into the hands of clinicians who understand that true refinement is never obvious, only felt. At Ponsonby Doctors, Dr Rachel Lee has become known for her highly considered approach to aesthetic medicine. With a background grounded in medical precision and a deep appreciation for facial harmony, she has built a reputation for delivering results that are elegant, balanced, and unmistakably natural.

Her philosophy is simple - enhance what is already there, rather than alter it. Patients often describe her work as “undetectable excellence” subtle refinement that restores confidence without changing identity. Whether working on skin quality, gentle volume restoration, or full-face rejuvenation strategies, Dr Lee’s approach is always guided by restraint, anatomical understanding, and long term skin health.

At the centre of the Dermalis evolution is MCT Meta Cell Technology, a breakthrough that redefines how we think about skin. Rather than treating the surface, MCT works in harmony with the skin’s natural biology, encouraging it to function at its highest potential. The result is not dramatic change, but something far more refined: skin that appears healthier, stronger, and quietly luminous.

At Ponsonby Doctors, Dr Lee integrates MCT into treatment plans that prioritise regeneration, resilience, and long-term skin quality. Equally integral is Jalupro, a globally respected injectable treatment known for restoring hydration and improving skin texture with remarkable subtlety. Often described as a “skin illuminator from within,” Jalupro has become a cornerstone for patients seeking freshness without obvious intervention.

Dr Rachel Lee frequently incorporates Jalupro into tailored treatment plans targeting delicate areas such as the under-eye region, neck, and décolletage where skin quality is most revealing. The result is refreshed, hydrated, naturally radiant skin.

Dermalis’ portfolio also includes advanced technologies such as EndoliftX, where laser precision works beneath the skin to subtly tighten, lift, and redefine facial contours without surgery or downtime. This aligns closely with Dr Lee’s philosophy of progressive refinement over aggressive change.

Alongside this, Aqualyx provides targeted fat reduction for small, stubborn areas, allowing for soft sculpting while maintaining natural facial and body balance. At Ponsonby Doctors, these technologies are not used in isolation.

Instead, Dr Lee carefully layers treatments combining regenerative skin therapies, bio stimulation, and structural refinement to achieve results that evolve naturally over time. While Dermalis operates behind the scenes, its influence is increasingly visible through practitioners like Dr Rachel Lee at Ponsonby Doctors.

Together, they are helping define a new era of aesthetic medicine in New Zealand one that values precision over excess, regeneration over intervention, and confidence above all else.

At Ponsonby Doctors, this philosophy is not theoretical. It is lived daily in consultations where treatment plans are built thoughtfully, individually, and with long-term skin health at the core.

Because today, beauty is no longer about changing how we look. It is about refining how we feel in our own skin naturally, intelligently, and with intention.

ponsonbydoctors.co.nz

THE BEAUTY COLLECTIVE

Located in central Auckland within Ponsonby Doctors, La Pelle is a boutique skin clinic led by Dr Rachel Lee, offering expert skin health and cosmetic treatments for women and men. From annual skin checks, mole biopsies, specialised scar treatments & skin surgery, to anti-wrinkle treatments, lasers and advanced regenerative cosmetic procedures, tailored to your individual needs. With a background in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dr Lee combines medical expertise with a personalised approach to help you look and feel your best. Expert care. Healthy skin. Natural confidence. OUR TEAM

THE FACE OF CONFIDENCE

Inside the World of Dr Shirley Wan

Recently, EYE magazine sat down with Dr Shirley Wan in the Chairman’s Suite at Cordis Auckland, a fitting setting for a conversation that would move far beyond dentistry. What unfolded was not simply a discussion about teeth, but a deeper exploration of confidence, identity and the subtle art of self-expression.

The setting also became the backdrop for an exclusive EYE photo shoot, capturing Dr Wan in a space that reflected her brand elegant, considered and quietly confident. In front of the camera, she embodied exactly what she speaks about: ease, assurance and a natural sense of self. It was a reminder that she is not only shaping confidence in others, but very much the face of it herself.

At first glance, dentistry might seem clinical so very precise, technical, and focused on function. But for Dr Wan, it is something far more holistic. “Teeth are only one part of the story,” she explains. “I’m always looking at the entire faceandhoweverythingworkstogether,howa smilesitswithinsomeone’sfeatures,andhowthat affectshowtheyfeelaboutthemselves.”

It’s this philosophy that has shaped her reputation as one of New Zealand’s most sought-after practitioners. A graduate of University of Otago with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery, and an Invisalign Platinum Elite Provider, Dr Wan sits at the intersection of science and artistry. Her work is grounded in clinical excellence yet guided by an intuitive understanding of aesthetics and an ability to see not just what is, but what could be.

Today’s society is increasingly driven by image, the conversation around cosmetic dentistry has shifted. No longer about perfection, it’s about authenticity. “People don’t want identical smiles,” she says. “They want something that feels like them, just more refined, more confident.”

This idea of individuality is central to her approach. Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all solution, Dr Wan takes time to understand her patients and their personality, their lifestyle, even how they speak and laugh. The result is work that feels natural, almost imperceptible, yet quietly transformative.

Much of her practice focuses on Invisalign, a treatment she values for its subtlety and versatility. But again, it’s not just about straightening teeth. “It’s about creating balance,” she explains. “When the teeth are alignedproperly,itchangesthewaythelips sit,thewaythejawlineisperceivedanditcan evensoftenorenhancecertainfacialfeatures.”

It’s here that her philosophy becomes clear: dentistry, in her hands, is a tool for self-expression. A smile can communicate warmth, confidence, openness. It can shift how someone is perceived in a room and more importantly, how they perceive themselves.

Throughout our conversation, there’s a consistent thread of empathy. Dr Wan speaks not just as a clinician, but as someone deeply attuned to the emotional side of her work. “Formanypatients,it’snotreallyaboutthe teeth,” she says. “It’saboutsomethingdeeper, confidence,self-worth,feelingcomfortable in their own skin.”

She recalls patients who have spent years hiding their smiles, covering their mouths when they laugh, or avoiding photos altogether. The transformation, she notes, is often as emotional as it is physical. “When someonestartssmilingfreelyagain,itchanges everything.Youseeitinthewaytheycarry themselves.”

In an age of filters and curated perfection, Dr Wan’s approach feels refreshingly grounded. There’s no push for extremes, no chasing trends just a considered, personalised process that prioritises harmony and authenticity.

As our time at the Cordis draws to a close, one thing becomes clear: Dr Shirley Wan isn’t just reshaping smiles. She’s quietly redefining what modern dentistry can be less about correction, more about confidence; less about uniformity, more about individuality.

Because in the end, a smile isn’t just something you see. It’s something you feel.

Hellodental.co.nz

SLEEP, RE-ENGINEERED

The Future of Sleep Has Arrived

For more than sixteen years, SleepDrops® has been New Zealand's number one sleep supplement brand and category leader.

Founded by sleep specialist Kirsten Taylor, SleepDrops has spent decades helping people achieve healthier sleep through a combination of practitioner expertise, scientific research, and continual innovation.

Over that time, one thing became increasingly clear. Sleep is multi-factorial, and those who address the needs of the body simultaneously achieve the greatest improvements in sleep. Great sleep requires a system. Sleep is influenced by physiology, behaviour, stress, environment, nutrition, hormones, lifestyle patterns, and daily habits. When these factors drift out of balance, sleep often follows.

After more than twenty years of working exclusively in the field of sleep, Taylor recognised that the future of sleep would require something entirely new. Not another product. Not another tracker. Not another source of information. A complete system. That vision became CleverSleep®.

Developed from more than two decades of practitioner experience, proprietary sleep assessment, clinical observation, independent research, wearable technology integration, and advanced natural sleep supplements, CleverSleep represents a new approach to helping people achieve healthier sleep.

CleverSleep bridges the gap between information and action by combining wearable data with a structured sleep assessment system developed from years of practitioner experience working with people struggling with sleep.

The result is a personalised sleep intelligence platform designed to identify the factors most likely to be influencing an individual's sleep and recovery, provide personalised recommendations, and deliver expertly formulated sleep supplements designed to support the recalibration of healthy sleep architecture.

Sleep, Re-Engineered

CleverSleep helps identify the patterns influencing sleep through its proprietary assessment framework and presents them in a simple traffic light format.

Green indicates that pathways appear balanced. Amber suggests areas that may benefit from attention. Red highlights factors that may be having a significant impact on sleep quality. This approach transforms complex sleep information into practical, easy to understand guidance.

The platform connects with many of the world's leading wearable health technologies, including major sleep rings, smart watches, and health-monitoring devices. By integrating wearable data with practitioner level assessment and analysis, CleverSleep delivers insights that technology alone cannot provide. The goal is not simply to measure sleep. The goal is to improve it.

Independent Clinical Research

CleverSleep's development has been strongly influenced by independent third party clinical research conducted through an internationally registered Clinical Research Organisation across multiple international hospital sites.

The studies investigated people experiencing significant insomnia and sleep disruption using the CleverSleep methodology and expertly formulated sleep products. The results demonstrated near total resolution of insomnia symptoms amongst study participants. Sleep does not simply improve overnight. With the right information and correctly selected supplements to meet an individual's needs, sleep recalibrates.

As healthy sleep architecture begins to rebalance, meaningful improvements can occur across sleep onset, sleep continuity, total sleep time, night time awakenings, return to sleep ability, and next day alertness and overall wellbeing. These findings have helped shape the CleverSleep platform and the next generation of sleep support.

The Next Generation of Sleep Intelligence

The future of health is becoming increasingly personalised. The future of sleep is no different. CleverSleep combines data from the world's leading wearable health trackers, structured sleep assessment, behavioural insight, practitioner led expertise, independent clinical research, and expertly formulated sleep supplements to create a complete sleep recovery system.

For those who recognise that sleep is one of life's most valuable assets, CleverSleep offers a new way forward bringing together science, technology, clinical insight, and expertly formulated sleep solutions within a single integrated system designed to support healthier sleep.

Because the future belongs to those who sleep and recover well.

cleversleepapp.com

THE SCIENCE OF FEELING GOOD

How One Auckland Nutritionist Is Rewriting the Rules of Wellness

There's a moment Sarah Mitchell Weston describes when a client finally understands that their gut, their energy, their weight, it's all connected. "People come in thinkingtheyjustneedamealplan," she says. "But nutrition is so much more than that. It's about understanding your body as a whole system."

It's this philosophy that has shaped Mitchell Weston Nutrition since Sarah founded her Grey Lynn practice in 2020. Armed with a PhD in Nutrition and registration with the Nutrition Society of New Zealand, she has spent the past five years helping hundreds of New Zealanders transform their relationship with food, not through fad diets or rigid restriction, but through deeply personalised, science-backed guidance.

Her clientele is broad, athletes seeking peak performance, people navigating persistent digestive issues, and many who simply want to feel better in their own skin. But certain threads run through almost every consultation: gut health, weight management, and the often overlooked role that exercise nutrition plays in everyday vitality.

"What you eat around movement matters farmorethanmostpeoplerealise," she says. "It'snotjustaboutproteinshakes.It'sabout fuellingyourbodyintelligently."

What distinguishes Sarah's approach is its dual commitment to rigour and warmth. Every client receives a plan grounded in current nutritional science, but one that is also built around the practicalities of their actual life, their schedule, their preferences, their stage of life. It's the kind of nuanced, one on one care that generic wellness content simply cannot replicate.

By 2022, Sarah's clients were asking her a question she couldn't quite answer to her satisfaction: "Which supplements should I actually take?" The market, she found, was full of products that were either loaded with unnecessary additives, lacked meaningful ingredient doses, or made claims the science couldn't back up. The solution, characteristically, was to create something better herself. That year, she launched Prochaine - a New Zealand made, family owned supplement brand built on three pillars: quality, efficacy, and sustainability.

The name, a nod to the French word for "next," signals the brand's forward thinking intent. And the product focus is telling: Prochaine currently centres on marine collagen and creatine, two ingredients Sarah describes as among the most compelling in the longevity and women's health research spaces.

"Womenintheirthirtiesandbeyondare experiencingrealphysiologicalshifts," she explains. "Collagen production declines, musclemassbecomeshardertopreserve, bone density needs support. These aren't vanity concerns, they're long term health concerns." The evidence behind both ingredients is compelling. Marine collagen peptides have been shown in clinical research to support skin elasticity, hydration, and hair and nail health. Meanwhile, creatine, long associated with gym goers and elite athletes, is now recognised in the broader scientific community as a powerful tool for muscle maintenance, cognitive function, and energy, particularly relevant for women navigating their thirties, forties, and beyond.

Prochaine's Collagen Beauty Blend pairs marine collagen peptides with vitamin C, zinc, and Holimel® melon concentrate, a clean, clinically considered dual action formula.

The Pure Creatine product uses Creavitalis®, a pharmaceutical grade micronised creatine monohydrate developed by German manufacturer Alzchem, known for its purity and bioavailability. The newest addition, the Vitality Blend, combines both collagen and creatine in a single unflavoured scoop, elegant in its simplicity. The sustainability piece is close to Sarah's heart. All Prochaine products are manufactured in New Zealand, and the pots and lids are 100% recyclable and New Zealand made too, using sugarcane.

For Sarah, the two businesses are complementary expressions of the same core belief: that good health is built on good information. Whether sitting across from a client in her Grey Lynn clinic, or formulating a supplement product with the same standards she'd apply to a clinical recommendation, she is asking the same question, what does the evidence actually say, and how do we make it work in the real world?

It's a question more of us should be asking. And for those ready to start, Sarah Mitchell Weston has made it considerably easier to find the answer.

mwnutrition.co.nz

prochaine.co.nz

THE SOFT ERA

Tucked away in Takapuna, Auckland, The Soft Suite is redefining modern aesthetics with a philosophy centred around subtle beauty, confidence, and refinement. Founded by registered nurse Jemma Reid, this boutique cosmetic clinic has quickly become a destination for those seeking natural-looking enhancements in a calm, elevated environment.

At the heart of The Soft Suite is a belief that aesthetic treatments should never overpower individuality. Instead, the clinic focuses on creating balance and harmony through carefully tailored injectable treatments designed to enhance, not alter. The result is beauty that feels effortless, soft, and unmistakably personal.

The clinic offers a curated selection of premium treatments including antiwrinkle injections, dermal fillers, and advanced skin boosters such as Profhilo® and Rejuran®. Each treatment is approached with precision and intention, whether the goal is smoothing fine lines, restoring hydration, refining facial contours, or improving overall skin quality.

What truly sets The Soft Suite apart, however, is the experience itself. From the moment clients arrive at the private Barrys Point Road clinic, there is an immediate sense of calm. Soft interiors, personalised consultations, and Jemma’s warm approach create an atmosphere

that feels more like a sanctuary than a traditional cosmetic clinic. For many clients, The Soft Suite represents a new era of aesthetics, one focused less on dramatic transformation and more on feeling refreshed, radiant, and confident in your own skin. It is beauty with intention, delivered through expert care and a deeply personalised approach.

In a world increasingly drawn to natural refinement over obvious enhancement, The Soft Suite captures exactly what modern beauty looks like: understated, elegant, and soft.

thesoftsuite.co.nz

MODERN MUSE

EXPERT TIPS

Sleeping Better Through Menopause

Dr Sumit Samant, ENT and Sleep Surgeon and Founder of Auckland Sleep, says menopause-related sleep disruption is often multi-factorial – and requires more than just focusing on night sweats.

1. Regulate your nervous system before bed

Hormonal shifts can heighten stress sensitivity and cortisol levels, contributing to 3am wake-ups. “Womeninmenopauseoftenfeel‘tiredbutwired’,” says Dr Samant. He recommends building a 30–45 minute wind-down ritual that includes low light, gentle stretching or breathwork to signal safety to the nervous system.

2. Strength training to protect sleep depth

Declining oestrogen accelerates muscle loss, which can impact metabolism and sleep quality. “Resistance training 2–3 times per week helps stabilise blood sugar, improve deep sleep and support mood regulation,” he explains.

3. Prioritise protein and blood sugar balance

Fluctuating blood sugar can worsen night waking. Dr Samant advises adequate protein intake across the day and avoiding high-sugar evening snacks that may trigger early-morning cortisol spikes.

4. Manage temperature strategically

Rather than just lowering the thermostat, he suggests breathable natural fibres, layered bedding and cooling techniques before bed (like a lukewarm shower) to reduce night-time overheating.

5. Consider screening for sleep-disordered breathing

Menopause increases the risk of snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea due to hormonal changes affecting airway tone. “If a woman is waking unrefreshed, snoring, or experiencing morning headaches, it’s important not to dismiss it as ‘just menopause’,” says Dr Samant.

6. Look at the whole lifestyle picture “ Sleepisn’tanisolatedeventthathappensatnight–it’s the outcome of how we live our entire day,” he says. Stress load, nutrition, movement patterns and emotional wellbeing all play a role in sleep quality during this stage of life.

aucklandsleep.co.nz

About Dr Sumit Samant

Dr Sumit Samant is an ENT and Sleep Surgeon and the Founder of Auckland Sleep. He works with patients experiencing chronic fatigue, insomnia and sleep disordered breathing, and is known for combining clinical sleep medicine with a holistic, lifestyle-focused approach. Through the clinic’s new 16-week Sleep

Strong programme (developed in partnership with Strong Foundations), he supports patients in addressing the broader drivers of poor sleep, including nutrition, stress and physical resilience - particularly relevant for women navigating perimenopause and menopause.

MENOMORA

MenoMora® supports women through the journey of midlife, empowering them to embrace this new chapter with confidence and positivity. Blending science and nature, MenoMora® takes a long-term approach to women's health through the lens of menopause. menomora.com

NAVIGATING MENOPAUSE NATURALLY

Menopause is a significant life transition that affects every woman differently. From hot flushes and mood changes to fatigue and disrupted sleep, the symptoms can impact daily life and overall wellbeing. Fortunately, more women are embracing a holistic approach to managing menopause, combining lifestyle changes, nutrition and natural support to help them thrive during this new chapter.

One of the most common complaints during menopause is poor sleep. According to Sarah Cowan, Managing Director of The Herb Farm, supporting the body naturally can make a meaningful difference.

"Sleep disruption is one of the most common challenges women experience during menopause. At The Herb Farm, we believe in supportingthebodynaturallyduringtimesofchange.OurSleepwell Cream combines calming botanicals and essential oils designed to helpthenervoussystemunwind,creatingasoothingnightlyritualthat encouragesdeeper,morerestorativesleep."

The Herb Farm's popular Wild Yam Cream has also become a favourite among women seeking plant-based support during menopause. Traditionally used in herbal wellness practices, wild yam is valued for its role in supporting women through hormonal changes. "We'repassionate abouthelpingmenopausalwomenreconnectwiththepowerofplants. Sleepdisturbancesduringmenopauseareincrediblycommon,butnature offersbeautifulsupport.Whetherthroughcalming

botanicalsinourSleepwellCreamortraditionalherbslikewildyam, ourgoalistohelpwomenfeelsupported,restedandempoweredintheir wellbeing," says Cowan.

New Zealand brand MenoMora® has created a targeted range of supplements that support women through menopause, help younger women prepare for the transition ahead, and nurture long-term health in the years beyond. Combining evidence-based science with carefully selected natural ingredients, MenoMora® takes a whole-person approach to hormonal, gut, and metabolic wellbeing at a cellular level.

Nutrition also plays a vital role. Many women are turning to premium collagen supplements such as Adashiko Collagen to support skin elasticity, hair, nails and overall vitality during menopause. Alongside collagen, magnesium, omega-rich foods, protein and hydration can all contribute to improved wellbeing.

Menopause is no longer a topic whispered about behind closed doors. Today's women have access to education, supportive communities and innovative wellness brands that are helping them navigate this life stage with strength, confidence and grace.

herbfarm.co.nz menomora.com adashiko.com

THE OTHER SIDE OF MENOPAUSE

And It’s Not the End of the Story

Women going through perimenopause or menopause count down to a moment: 12 consecutive months without a period. It marks the official transition and a hopeful signal that the chaos and unpredictability may finally settle.

For many women, however, it doesn’t feel quite as expected. Hot flushes don’t always disappear. Energy may still fluctuate, and everything can feel a little flat or “dry” - physically and emotionally. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and you’re not doing anything wrong.

Menopause was never a sprint. It is a marathon. After a long and demanding journey, the body doesn’t simply return to baseline. It needs nourishment and intentional care, just like marathon runners focus on recovery after race.

Biologically, post-menopause is characterized by consistently low levels of oestrogen and progesterone - hormones that influence far more than reproduction. Oestrogen receptors are present throughout the body, showing how widely this hormone supports functions across areas like the brain, heart, bones, skin, metabolism, digestion and immunity.

As levels decline, it’s natural for changes to persist - from bone strength and cardiovascular health to mood, cognition, and overall resilience. While much of the conversation focuses on getting through menopause, this next stage can often be overlooked - despite women spending 20-30 years in postmenopause.

At MenoMora, we believe this phase deserves dedicated support. One of our products, Thrive, was developed with exactly post-menopause in mind, with a focus on heart health, bone strength, immune resilience, and cellular renewal, alongside foundational support for gut, metabolic and hormonal wellbeing. The formulation includes postbiotic, prebiotic, polyamine, phytoestrogen, antioxidants, and key nutrients such as vitamin K2 (MK-7) and vitamin D. It also features spermidine, a compound studied for its benefits in cellular renewal processes and inflammation.

This is more than managing long lasting symptoms. It’s about supporting healthy ageing through a female-specific lens.

Coming out the other side isn’t the end of the story. It’s where a new one begins - and this time, it’s about thriving.

BEAUTY NEWS

Shark Glam™ Hot Tool Air Drying & Styling System

Shark Beauty’s latest all-in-one styling innovation combines powerful airflow with heat-controlled ceramic technology to transform wet hair into polished, high-shine styles with minimal frizz. Designed for a wide range of hair textures and styles, the system includes five versatile styling tools alongside Shark Beauty’s innovative Gloss Lock Technology for smooth, high-shine finishes. sharkclean.co.nz

Saint Beauty

Saint Beauty blends luxury with conscious skincare, crafting products that nourish both skin and spirit. With a focus on clean, high performance ingredients, each formula delivers visible results while embracing sustainability. From radiant serums to indulgent creams, Saint Beauty transforms everyday routines into moments of mindful self care and elegance. saintbeauty.nz

The Body Restore Ritual Body Care Set

Inspired by the natural beauty of Waiheke Island, Wildheke creates body care and home care products powered by native New Zealand botanicals. Harnessing the soothing properties of Kawakawa and the hydrating benefits of Harakeke, the range is designed to gently cleanse, restore and nourish. Thoughtfully crafted and nature-led, Wildheke brings the essence of Aotearoa into everyday self-care rituals.

Beauty Meets Quantum Science

New Zealand luxury skincare brand Nahaia Active Organics has unveiled its groundbreaking Schumann Frequency Skincare Range, blending certified organic ingredients with advanced bioenergetic technology. Founded by naturopath and medical herbalist Nahaia Russ, the collection incorporates the Earth’s natural 7.83 Hz Schumann Resonance alongside quartz crystal and ethically sourced 24K gold. Designed to support both skin vitality and emotional wellbeing, the range reflects the brand’s holistic philosophy of beauty that goes beyond the surface. Featuring native New Zealand botanicals, Grander Living Water™ and patented Micro Vita Love™ technology, the launch positions Nahaia at the intersection of wellness, science and conscious luxury skincare.

Emma Lewisham

New Zealand beauty brand Emma Lewisham has made history, becoming the first New Zealand beauty company to receive an Oprah Daily Beauty O-Award in the United States. The award-winning product, the Sunceutical SPF 50 Mineral Face Crème, was selected after rigorous testing against thousands of beauty products by Oprah Daily editors and a panel of leading dermatologists. Developed over eight years, the SPF combines high level sun protection with advanced skincare benefits and a luxurious texture. The recognition comes amid strong growth for the brand in the US market, where Emma Lewisham has recently expanded into prestigious retailers Credo and Bluemercury, further cementing its place on the global beauty stage. emmalewisham.com

Jane Iredale Skintuition

Brightening Under Eye Concealer

A skincare infused under-eye concealer with active peptides, clinically proven to boost hydration and brighten, delivering lightweight, medium coverage that melts seamlessly into skin to visibly diminish dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines. janeiredale.co.nz

WHERE RESULTS MEET RITUAL:

Inside Advanced Beauty Clinic Mt Eden

AtAdvanced Beauty Clinic Mt Eden, skin and scalp health are approached with equal parts precision and care. Known for its results-driven philosophy, the clinic is led by a team of highly trained, certified aestheticians whose hands-on experience and clinical expertise underpin every treatment. The clinic has built a strong reputation in treating acne, pigmentation, and acne scarring. Each programme is thoughtfully tailored to address underlying causes, not just surface concerns, supporting long-term skin health alongside visible, lasting results. This focus on correction is balanced with a suite of restorative facials that prioritise hydration, calm, and overall skin quality, creating a well-rounded approach to treatment and relaxation.

Beyond skin, Advanced Beauty Clinic also offers specialised scalp and hair therapies designed to treat flakes, irritation, dandruff, thinning, and hair loss. Every treatment begins with a detailed scalp assessment, ensuring solutions are personalised and effective over time.

A standout offering is the Traditional Vietnamese Hot Herbal Water Therapy, a signature experience that blends cultural wellness with targeted scalp and hair restoration.

Introducing Cold Plasma Technology at Our Clinic. Advanced Beauty Clinic is also proud to be one of the very few clinics in Auckland to offer Cold Plasma technology, one of the newest advancements in skin and scalp care. This non-invasive treatment uses non-thermal atmospheric plasma to effectively target acne by reducing bacteria and calming inflammation, while also improving the appearance of acne scarring by stimulating collagen production and supporting skin renewal.

For those experiencing hair thinning or loss, Cold Plasma works to stimulate dormant hair follicles, improve scalp circulation, and encourage new hair growth. Suitable for all skin types and requiring no downtime, it offers a comfortable, accessible treatment that easily fits into everyday routines.

Advanced technologies further enhance the clinic’s offering. Treatments such as microneedling and mesotherapy work to stimulate collagen production, refine texture, and support a firmer, more youthful complexion. Diode laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction, while Coolshaping2 fat freezing offers a non-invasive approach to body contouring. From clinical acne solutions and multi-layer peels to scalp detox therapies and skin boosters, every service is delivered with consistency, care, and attention to detail.

At its core, Advanced Beauty Clinic Mt Eden is committed to achieving real results while maintaining a calm, professional, and personalised experience for every client who walks through its doors. advancedbeautyclinic.nz

SCULPTED BY SAM

The Privilege of Aging: A New Approach to Aesthetic Medicine.

For decades, the beauty industry has been shaped by the concept of “anti-aging” a phrase that suggests growing older is something to resist, reverse or conceal. Yet aging is one of life’s greatest privileges. Every smile line, every expression, and every change reflects a life well lived, filled with experiences, growth, and memories. At Sculpted by Sam, this belief is at the heart of everything we do.

Based in Whangarei and led by experienced aesthetic nurse Sam, Sculpted by Sam offers a fresh perspective on cosmetic medicines. One that celebrates aging rather than fearing it. Instead of focusing on turning back the clock, the clinic specialises in working alongside the natural aging process, helping clients feel confident, refreshed and comfortable in their own skin at every age and stage of life.

“Webelievebeautyevolvesthroughout life,” says founder and aesthetic nurse Sam. “Ourroleisn’ttoerasethesignsof agingbuttosupportpeopleastheyage, helpingthemfeellikethebestversion of themselves.”

This Philosophy is reflected in every treatment offered. From wrinkle-relaxing treatments and dermal fillers to bio-regenerative skin therapies such as Sculptra, each service is carefully selected to support facial harmony, skin quality and overall confidence. The focus is always on natural looking enhancements that leave clients looking refreshed, not transformed.

At Sculpted by Sam, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Every face ages differently, which is why each treatment plan is tailored to an individual's unique anatomy, concerns, lifestyle, and goals. Rather than chasing trends or dramatic results, Sam takes a thoughtful approach centred

on balance, rejuvenation and healthy aging. Education and trust form the foundation of the client experience. Consultations are never rushed. Instead they are collaborative conversations where clients are encouraged to ask questions, explore their options and make informed decisions that align with their personal goals. The emphasis is on transparency, ensuring every treatment feels empowering rather than overwhelming.

As beauty standards continue to evolve, more people are seeking softer, more authentic approach to aesthetics. They want to look rested, healthy and vibrant, not unrecognisable. This shift reflects a growing understanding that aesthetics can be used not to fight aging, but to support confidence and wellbeing throughout aging.

Sculpted by Sam also recognises the demands of modern life. Alongside clinic based appointments, mobile services are available, providing flexibility and convenience for clients who prefer treatments in a familiar environment. Membership options exist to make treatments more accessible through manageable payment plans and personalised scheduling.

Ultimately, Sculpted by Sam is built on the belief that confidence has no age limit. By embracing the privilege of aging and offering treatments that complement, rather than compete with the natural process, the clinic is helping redefine what modern aesthetics can be.

Because beauty isn’t about looking younger. It’s about feeling confident, empowered and authentically yourself at every age and stage of your life.

sculptedbysam.co.nz

Enhancing Natural Beauty with Subtle, Balanced Results

At Sculpted by Sam, our approach is focused on delivering subtle, balanced results that enhance facial harmony without making treatments obvious. We aim to create a refreshed, natural appearance, tailored to each person’s unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Wellness in a Bottle

Handcrafted in Taranaki, Blue Petal oxymels are traditional tonics blending raw apple cider vinegar and honey with potent herbs. These award-finalist elixirs are formulated for overall wellness, utilizing the natural anti-inflammatory properties of fresh turmeric, ginger and kawakawa to provide digestive support. Each vibrant, peppery sip offers a revitalizing daily ritual. bluepetalnz.com

CELLULAR WELLNESS, BEAUTY AND RECOVERY - ALL PACKED INTO ONE DAILY RITUAL

Remuer

Derived from the French word remuer, meaning “to stir or move,” Remuer is designed to help gently shift your daily routine and support how you look and feel from within. Each Remuer sachet blends premium, science-backed ingredients including pure marine collagen, CoQ10, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, zinc, and biotin - working together to support cellular energy, skin health, and recovery. Created by Shilpa Singh, a Kiwi millennial mum and former lawyer who transformed her own wellbeing after losing 20kg post-partum, Remuer was born from her search for a single, simple daily ritual that delivers real results.

remuer.store

Matcha lovers Unite

Iced Oat Matcha Latte by Brewé blends Japanese matcha with creamy oat milk for smooth, balanced energy. Lightly sweetened and dairy free, it supports focus without jitters or crashes. Enjoy chilled as a nourishing daily ritual or gentle afternoon pick me up that fits modern wellness focused lifestyles naturally. brewe.co.nz

CUTTING THROUGH

Petra Rijnbeek on Talent, Training and Transformation

PetraRijnbeek has spent 35 years shaping hair, careers and creative direction - now bringing that edge to her role as Skills Institute Hairdressing Partnership Manager. With a sharp focus on people and potential, she’s championing work-based learning to build confident, accountable stylists ready for the future.

Stepping into this next chapter, Rijnbeek brings a career shaped across salon floors, backstage chaos, glossy pages and global brands each reinforcing what she values most: connection, creativity, and unlocking potential.

Rijnbeek’s rise was early and unmistakable. A Wella Young Protégé Award at just 20 set the scene for what followed - a career defined by precision, instinct and creative edge. She went on to win L’Oréal Colour Trophy Colourist of the Year in 2006, build and run successful salons in Newmarket and Ellerslie, and move fluidly between worlds - styling for designers like Augustine and Trelise Cooper, serving as Editor of M2 Woman, and leading at the highest level as L’Oréal New Zealand Creative Director and Matrix Australia Creative Director.

But the real story sits beyond the accolades. “Theopportunitytoreconnect withlearnersiswhatexcitesmemost,” she says. “It’sthemostimportantstagewhere confidenceisbuiltandcareersareshaped.” It’s this passion for people that has earned her the title ‘Aunty of Hairdressing’ a name that carries both warmth and weight. Rijnbeek isn’t interested in surface-level mentorship. She creates space, builds trust and pays attention. “Whatseparates a good hairdresser from a great one isn’t just technical skill it’s the ability to truly listen,” she says.

“Whenpeoplestarttoseeprogress,they begintobelieveit-theyrealisetheyhave adestiny,andit’suptothemtocolouritas boldlyastheywant.” That belief, however, was hard-earned. Rijnbeek recalls early in her career, a client transformation she felt ready for. She delivered the vision but pushed too far, cutting the hair shorter than intended. The result? A complaint, and a young stylist left questioning everything. However, her mentor Adele Chesman’s response changed her perspective.

“Playing it safe might protect you but it won’thelpyougrow,” she says. “Creativity demands risk, while mastery comes by learningfromyourmistakes.” Today, that mindset underpins everything she brings to the industry, especially as it faces rising expectations and increasing scrutiny. “Clients are more informed than ever, trendsaremovingfaster,andthemargin for error is smaller.”

That’s why, for Rijnbeek, training isn’t optional - it’s essential. Work based learning, she believes, is how the industry sharpens its edge: building stylists who are not only creatively capable, but accountable, consistent and industry-ready.

Looking forward, Rijnbeek sees a New Zealand industry ready to claim its place on the global stage - rich with talent, ready for recognition, and driven by a new standard.

Because at its core, hairdressing has always been more than a service. “Hairdressing is the art of transforming a canvas into confidence. Never underestimate the poweryouwieldwithyourscissors.”

skillsinstitute.co.nz

petra.rijnbeek@skills-group.org

BENEATH THE MATTERHORN:

A Week Of Alpine Elegance -

By Monica Trussel

There is a certain kind of luxury that can’t be manufactured, it’s found in places where nature does all the work. For me, that place is Zermatt, Switzerland, in my husband’s homeland, where we spent a week in March 2026 immersed in alpine beauty and understated elegance. Set beneath the striking Matterhorn, Zermatt feels effortlessly refined.

The car-free village preserves a quiet sophistication, where traditional wooden chalets sit alongside boutique hotels and designer winterwear blend seamlessly with the surrounding peaks.

Days were spent skiing some of the most pristine slopes in Europe where the experience is as much about style as it is about sport. Although I’m not the most experienced skier, I found myself enjoying everything Zermatt had to offer, from gentle runs to simply taking in the extraordinary alpine surroundings. Yet it’s the moments in between that linger most.

Long lunches high in the mountains became a highlight of each day. My favourite was at Chez Vrony, where traditional Swiss flavours meet breathtaking views. Indulging in fondue and perfectly melted raclette, paired with champagne in the sun, created a setting so beautiful it felt almost surreal.

Back in the village, afternoons naturally flowed into après-ski at some of Zermatt’s iconic spots, including Harry’s Ski Bar and Hennu Stall that was lively, welcoming, and the perfect way to unwind after a day on the slopes. Zermatt’s elegance is effortless.

For something truly unforgettable, Iglu-Dorf offers the unique experience of spending a night inside an igloo, surrounded by snow and complete alpine stillness and an experience that feels both surreal and magical.

Being there, in my husband’s homeland, added a deeper connection and a sense of place that went beyond the scenery. It’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression, where beauty, style, and nature exist in perfect harmony beneath the timeless silhouette of the Matterhorn and a place I would most definitely love to return to one day.

Natalie Newton AWARDING WINNING SALESWOMAN

TURNING PROPERTY DREAMS INTO REALITY

In real estate, success is often measured by results, but for award-winning New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty agent Natalie Newton, it’s the relationships she builds along the way that truly matter.

Known for her warm personality, unwavering professionalism, and exceptional market knowledge, Natalie has become one of the North Shore and Auckland’s most trusted real estate specialists. Her reputation has been built on delivering outstanding outcomes while making what can often be a stressful process feel seamless, transparent, and enjoyable.

The New Zealand property market continues to show resilience, with premium homes in sought-after coastal and lifestyle locations remaining highly desirable. Natalie has built a strong track record representing luxury waterfront, lifestyle, and high-value residential properties, while successfully connecting local and international buyers with some of Auckland’s most exceptional homes.

Through the global reach of New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty, Natalie works with both local and international vendors, ensuring properties are showcased to a worldwide audience. Her ability to attract qualified international interest alongside strong local demand creates greater exposure, stronger competition, and outstanding results for her clients.

Her award-winning achievements speak for themselves, but it is her genuine care, clear communication, and attention to detail that truly set her apart. Combining world-class marketing with local expertise, Natalie continues to raise the bar for luxury real estate across Auckland and the North Shore.

If you’re considering selling your home, Natalie is the kind of professional you’ll be grateful to have by your side.

FRESH TO MARKET

NATADOLA SUITE CELEBRATIONS

Setabove the sweeping curve of Natadola Bay, the Natadola Suite at InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa offers a refined approach to private celebration, one defined by discretion, design and considered service. Overlooking one of Fiji’s most iconic stretches of white sand, this experience is crafted for guests who value meaning as much as setting.

Hosted exclusively within the resort’s most prestigious private residence, the Natadola Suite Celebration Suite is not positioned as a traditional venue. Instead, it functions as a private home elevated to an international luxury standard, an environment where time slows, conversations deepen and moments are given the space they deserve.

Awarded Fiji’s Leading Hotel Suite at the 2023 World Travel Awards, the Natadola Suite spans an impressive 218 square metres and is thoughtfully designed to balance openness with intimacy. Panoramic views stretch across the bay, while a dedicated living and dining area flows seamlessly onto an expansive ocean-facing terrace. A private plunge pool anchors the outdoor space, creating a natural focal point for sunset gatherings and relaxed connection.

Designed for intimate celebrations of up to 15 guests, the Celebration Suite experience is offered exclusively for private use over a four-hour period. During this time, the suite becomes entirely yours, styled with intention and supported by a dedicated butler and event host who ensure each detail is delivered with quiet precision.

Menus are curated to suit the occasion, incorporating local flavours and cultural touches that reflect both place and purpose.

This experience is available exclusively to in-house guests and must be requested at least 48 hours in advance, allowing the team time to thoughtfully style the suite, coordinate personalised service and craft the cultural and culinary elements that define the Celebration Suite. As the experience cannot be pre-booked ahead of a confirmed stay and remains subject to availability, advance discussion with the resort team is encouraged to ensure expectations are aligned.

Whether marking a proposal, milestone birthday, vow renewal or a gathering of family and friends, the experience is tailored rather than templated. Every element, from the pacing of the event to the way the space is dressed, is guided by the tone and intent of the celebration itself.

In a destination renowned for natural beauty, the Celebration Suite distinguishes itself through restraint and refinement. It is an experience that prioritises privacy, cultural resonance and genuine connection, offering guests not just a memorable setting, but a meaningful chapter created above the curve of Natadola Bay and carried long after the sun has set.

fiji.intercontinental.com/recreation/celebration-suite

SERENE - NEW ZEALAND’S SONGBIRD

Gentle voice, tranquil nature, and composed performance.

Serene featured in our last magazine telling her story of arriving in NZ with her family 6 years ago to set up a new life; a life where they could pursue their dreams. Big dreams start with small steps. Serene bought herself a mic and speaker and made the streets of Auckland her stage. She has now gone from busking to being a recording artist.

In February, we saw the fabulous ‘Midnight Mischief’ music video - Serene’s first recorded original song. The video was shot by filmmaker, Giles Wynn, and the hero was played by model/ TV presenter, Colin Mathura-Jeffree.

The story is of a siren coming out from the sea, gate-crashing a party and wooing a chosen prey using her elegance and sultry glances. The film is shot in a French New Wave style with a black and white palette and only the siren’s dress in red. We asked Serene a few questions about the experience:

How did you come up with the story of the music video?

The song is tantalising and provocative, so I felt a siren would be a good subject choice. The vocals are breathy and at times haunting which lead me to the idea of magic taking place on the stroke of midnight.

What was it like working with Colin?

Colin was perfect for this role. His handsome face and glassy eyes made him an ideal target for the siren; and his long hair added a fantasy-like feel to the story. He was a pleasure to work with. Very professional, fun and great at keeping people in high spirits.

When is your next music video?

Well, there definitely will be many more! I love the artistic collaboration involved in producing something that brings complement to a song. I will keep you posted on that!

Serene has caught the attention of Gray Bartlett - the man behind the making of singers such as Hayley Westenra and Yulia. He is taking on management and promotion, whilst Serene is brewing something extra special involving more originals, fresh covers of well-loved songs, artistic music videos, fashionista outfits and eventually a show that will transport us into a dream-like state.

Serene has just released her own version of Christie McVie’s Songbird with renowned producer, Mike McCarthy. The song features one of NZ’s best recognised violinists, Nick Jones. Serene says:

“Ihavechosenabrilliantsongwhichhasbeen deliveredwithtendernessandvulnerability,and havegivenitafreshsetofwingstotakeflight again,notinanentirelynewdirection,butrather onadifferentweatheredday.Thesamehearthas beenkept.”

We asked Serene what she loves most about singing. Her response was:

“Sound and vibration is the way nature communicates. Language is the way humans communicate. Song is a combination of thosethings,producingaharmonyoflifethat connects to all. What I love is making that connection.”

serene-music.com

CITY LIVING

Auckland city living has so much to offer, and in this issue we celebrate some of the wonderful experiences right on our doorstep. From sharing a spectacular one-metre-long pizza with friends to discovering the perfect gown at BW Fashion, Auckland effortlessly blends style, culture and incredible dining.

We've also ventured beyond the inner CBD to showcase some of the fantastic offerings auckland has in Parnell and Remuera, proving that every corner of our city has something unique to discover.

TOTO'S PIZZA

Naples Called. Auckland Answered.

Known for award winning pizzas by the metre, TOTO’S has built a cult following around big flavour, generous portions and seriously good pizza designed for real life. Date night? Share a metre while watching the All Blacks. Office lunch? Sorted. House party, birthday, staff shout or catering for a crowd? They’ve got you. Beyond pizza, TOTO’S serves up the street food favourites Naples does best - arancini, croquettes and authentic Italian bites made for passing around the table. The long table dining experience seats up to 20 for those occasions that deserve more than a booking for four.

Whether you're wandering through vibrant markets, exploring boutique stores, enjoying world-class restaurants or simply taking in the atmosphere of our beautiful neighbourhoods, Auckland continues to surprise and inspire.

I'm always looking for great restaurants, hidden gems and exciting locations to feature on these pages. If you have a business or destination you think deserves the spotlight, I'd love to hear from you at franceska@eyemagazine.co.nz.

But Aucklanders know the real move: let us bring Naples to you. Every pizza starts with traditional Italian methods, premium imported ingredients, San Marzano tomatoes, Italian cheeses and carefully crafted dough delivering authentic Neapolitan flavour in every bite.

Built for modern Auckland living, TOTO’S is all about sharing more, feeding more and making great food easy. Why buy everyone their own pizza when you can roll out a metre and let the arguments over the last slice begin?

0800868677 | info@totopizza.co.nz totopizza.co.nz

Becca Project Body Oils

A favourite among beauty lovers, Becca Project body oils have become a must-have for beautifully hydrated, glowing skin. Handmade in Auckland using nourishing botanical oils and pure essential oils, these luxurious blends leave skin silky soft while offering an indulgent aromatherapy experience. Popular scents include Wildflower, Blue Lotus and Luna.

Available online, as well as at selected Auckland retailers, Becca Project is the perfect way to elevate your daily self-care ritual. Beccaproject.co.nz

Art, Culture & Ocean Stories

One of my favourite things to do when wandering the viaduct! Have you visited the New Zealand Maritime Museum? It is set in the heart of Auckland’s vibrant Viaduct Harbour, the museum combines ever-changing exhibitions with permanent galleries and collections exploring art, culture, history and our connection to the sea. From contemporary exhibitions to heritage vessels, there is always something new to discover on the waterfront. maritimemuseum.co.nz

The Grand Millennium Hotel - Estelle’s Bar

The Grand Millennium Hotel stands as a beacon of comfort and modern sophistication within the vibrant landscape of Auckland City Living. One of my personal favorites is Estelle’s Bar, renowned for its stylish ambiance and expertly crafted Batched cocktails. It serves as the perfect retreat after a day of exploration or a delightful venue for social gatherings. The bar’s inviting atmosphere, coupled with stunning city views, creates an unforgettable experience. Estelle’s Bar beautifully encapsulates the essence of Auckland, making it a must-visit destination. millenniumhotels.com

WYNYARD QUARTER

Enjoy the Vibrancy of City Life Without the Chaos

CACI WYNYARD QUARTER

Located in the vibrant waterfront precinct of Wynyard Quarter, Caci Wynyard Quarter offers advanced skin, beauty and wellness treatments in a modern and welcoming setting. Known for its personalised approach and professional expertise, the clinic provides a wide range of services including skin rejuvenation, laser hair removal, appearance medicine and customised skincare solutions tailored to individual needs and goals.

At the heart of the clinic is owner Bernadette Allan, who has owned the clinic for the past two years and brings over 15 years of industry experience, including 13 years with Caci since 2013. Her depth of knowledge and genuine passion for skin health underpin the clinic’s trusted reputation and client-first philosophy.

Focused on helping clients feel confident in their own skin, Caci Wynyard Quarter combines innovative treatments with genuine care and long-term skin health support. Popular with busy professionals, residents and visitors alike, the clinic reflects the polished lifestyle and contemporary energy of the surrounding community.

G05/70 Daldy Street, Auckland CBD caci.co.nz/pages/clinic/wynyard-quarter

BADUZZI

Located in the heart of Wynyard Quarter, Baduzzi is a contemporary Italian restaurant celebrated for its handmade pasta, signature meatballs and vibrant waterfront atmosphere. Inspired by traditional Italian dining with a modern twist, the restaurant combines bold flavours, fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality in a stylish yet relaxed setting overlooking Auckland’s lively waterfront precinct.

Known for its shared style dining and carefully curated menu, Baduzzi offers everything from casual lunches and dinners to special celebrations and group events. The restaurant’s spacious courtyard is ideal for larger gatherings, creating a lively and welcoming space for private functions and social occasions. Michael P. Dearth is also happy to personally create tailored menus for special events and group bookings, adding a more personalised touch to the dining experience. Seasonal dishes and an extensive wine selection further enhance the restaurant’s authentic Italian inspired approach to dining.

10–26 Jellicoe Street, North Wharf, Wynyard Quarter, Auckland baduzzi.co.nz

WYNYARD QUARTER

Enjoy the Vibrancy of City Life Without the Chaos

Once an industrial waterfront, Wynyard Quarter has become one of Auckland’s most vibrant lifestyle destinations. Blending harbourside living with modern city energy, the precinct is home to waterfront dining, local businesses, stylish apartments and lively public spaces. From morning coffees to evening walks by the marina, Wynyard Quarter captures the relaxed spirit of contemporary Auckland living. Wynyard Quarter, Auckland

WYNYARD MART CONVENIENCE STORE

BRAVO AT CRACKER BAY

A stunning addition to Wynyard Quarter, Bravo at Cracker Bay offers waterfront dining at its finest. Showcasing fresh seasonal cuisine, local seafood, premium wines including selections from Ayrburn, and breathtaking harbour views, Bravo at Cracker Bay delivers an unforgettable dining experience from breakfast through to sunset. With its vibrant atmosphere, stylish waterfront setting, and welcoming energy, Bravo at Cracker Bay has quickly become a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike. Bravo at Cracker Bay is also an exceptional venue for private functions, corporate events, and celebrations, offering a stunning backdrop and tailored hospitality for memorable occasions.

9 Westhaven Drive, Auckland CBD, Auckland crackerbay.nz/bravo

HAIR KINGS

Located in the heart of Wynyard Quarter, Wynyard Mart is a convenient local stop for residents, workers and visitors alike. Offering everyday essentials, snacks, drinks and quick grab-and-go items, the store has become part of the area’s easy waterfront lifestyle, combining convenience with friendly local service.

141 Halsey Street, Westhaven, Auckland

Hair Kings Barber has built a strong reputation for quality cuts, modern grooming and friendly service in the heart of Wynyard Quarter. From precision fades to classic barbering, the shop reflects the polished yet relaxed atmosphere of the waterfront precinct while remaining a favourite among locals and professionals alike. With attention to detail, Hair Kings Barber brings a modern edge to classic barbering.

132 Halsey Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland

AOI JAPANESE

AOI Japanese Restaurant brings a modern take on authentic Japanese dining to Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter, combining fresh ingredients with beautifully crafted dishes in a relaxed waterfront setting. Known for its sushi, sashimi and contemporary Japanese flavours, AOI offers a warm and vibrant dining experience inspired by traditional Japanese techniques.

4/12 Jellicoe Street, Auckland CBD aoi.co.nz

WYNYARD GRILL

Wynyard Grill is a premium steakhouse and wine lounge in Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter, celebrated for its top quality New Zealand steaks, wild game dishes, gourmet comfort food and expertly curated wine list. With live jazz nights and a sophisticated waterfront atmosphere, it offers a refined yet welcoming dining experience.

6/12 Jellicoe Street

Wynyard Quarter, Auckland CBD wynyardgrill.co.nz

REGENT SEVEN SEAS EXPLORER®

The Art of Luxury at Sea

There are few travel experiences that capture the imagination quite like the Regent Seven Seas Explorer®. Widely regarded as one of the most luxurious cruise ships in the world, the Explorer represents the very best of ocean travel, combining elegant design, exceptional service, and unforgettable destinations.

Accommodating just 747 guests and attended by 548 crew, the level of personalised service is exceptional. Every detail is thoughtfully considered, creating an atmosphere of effortless luxury from the moment guests step aboard.

The ship itself is a masterpiece. Regent Seven Seas Explorer® is stunning, with artwork by Pablo Picasso adorning the walls and a spectacular cobalt-blue glass installation suspended from the ceiling of the elegant Compass Rose restaurant. Throughout the vessel, guests are surrounded by exquisite craftsmanship, luxurious finishes, and beautifully curated spaces designed to inspire.

From the beautifully appointed suites and sophisticated interiors to the world-class dining and attentive service, every aspect of life on board has been crafted to deliver an extraordinary experience. Spacious accommodation, private balconies, fine artworks, and elegant furnishings create an atmosphere more akin to a luxury boutique hotel than a cruise ship.

Dining is a highlight, with a collection of specialty restaurants serving exceptional cuisine from around the world. Combined with Regent's renowned all-inclusive offering and impeccable service, every moment feels seamless.

For travellers seeking a journey where every detail is taken care of, the Regent Seven Seas Explorer offers an unparalleled way to explore the world. Elegant, refined, and beautifully curated, it continues to set the benchmark for luxury cruising.

rssc.com/ships/seven_seas_explorer

A GRAND REINVENTION

Auckland's Mayoral Drive landmark hotel has emerged from a sweeping $30 million transformation, and the results have infused the grand back into Grand Millennium Auckland.

Grand Millennium Auckland has reimagined itself as a five-star destination, with every corner of the 453-room hotel touched by a modern makeover. The spacious guest rooms and suites have been refreshed with calming contemporary colour palettes, gold accent lighting and new furnishings. Every room features a bathtub, while Club Rooms afford guests Sky Tower views while savouring complimentary breakfast and pre-dinner drinks and canapés.

The hotel is home to a five-venue dining precinct. Ember Restaurant brings a relaxed bistro experience, while The Aviary Cocktail Bar anchors the sun-drenched atrium with all-day energy.

BEAUTY GIVING BACK

Saint Beauty Raises $32,000 for Cure Kids

Emma Hughes and Bex Hunt, founders of Saint Beauty, recently brought together Auckland’s business and philanthropic community for a memorable charity luncheon supporting Cure Kids at St Heliers Bay Bistro.

The beautifully curated event was a resounding success, raising an impressive $32,000 to help fund vital child health research across New Zealand. Guests enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of exceptional food, entertainment, fundraising, and fashion, all set against the stunning beachside backdrop of St Heliers.

The event was expertly hosted by Brendon Pongia, with music by Phil Madsen and a standout fashion show from Coko Boutique. One of the most moving moments of the day came from Cure Kids ambassador Eva Mitchell, whose heartfelt speech highlighted the importance of the charity’s work and the impact of community support. With generous contributions from sponsors, donors, and supporters, including Eye Magazine, the event showcased the power of people coming together to make a meaningful difference for New Zealand children.

saintbeauty.nz

Estelle's Lounge channels Mediterranean warmth with Spanish-inspired small plates and elevated sangria which can be enjoyed on the terrace. Complementing these new-look venues are established favourites Katsura Japanese Cuisine and the sensory dining in the dark experience, Dans le Noir?

For party planners and engaged couples, the Grand Ballroom transforms any event into a whimsical wonderland thanks to a lighting sculpture of over one million hand-assembled LED lights, a statement piece worthy of Auckland's most memorable occasions.

Recognised with a Qualmark 5-star rating and Gold Sustainability Award, Grand Millennium Auckland’s transformation celebrates the elegance that has always been here.

millenniumhotels.com/auckland

CAPRI IN THE CITY

London’s summer social calendar just received a chic new highlight, The Berkeley will once again open its exclusive rooftop typically reserved for in-house guests to the public, marking the highly anticipated return of Capri in the City. This year, the sought-after pop-up arrives in collaboration with Acqua di Parma, bringing a fresh layer of Italian elegance to one of the capital’s most coveted terraces.

Set between Knightsbridge and Belgravia, the rooftop has been reimagined as a Riviera-inspired escape, complete with lemon trees, striped loungers and sweeping views across Hyde Park. Drawing inspiration from the iconic coastline of Capri, the concept taps into the enduring appeal of relaxed, sun-drenched European summers, without leaving the city.

At the heart of the experience is a new menu designed to reflect the vibrancy of Italian beach club culture. Cocktails lead the charge, with standout serves including the Capri Negroni, a citrus-forward twist on the classic, and the Granita della casa, a refreshing blend of Aperol and Amalfi lemon served over shaved ice. A curated list of spritzes, wines and craft beers rounds out the offering, catering to long, leisurely evenings.

The food menu follows suit, celebrating regional Italian produce and generous, share-style dining. Guests can expect pizzas fresh from the rooftop oven, topped with Parma ham, rocket and parmesan, or artichokes with anchovies and Taggiasca olives alongside abundant platters of focaccia, mortadella, prosciutto and Calabria anchovies. Larger dishes such as paccheri with clams, mussels and crab sit comfortably beside lighter plates, including marinated octopus and a classic panzanella.

A sweet finish is non-negotiable: tiramisu for two or Amalfi lemon sorbet served in a whole lemon with a side of limoncello.

Open Wednesday through Sunday from 7:30pm, Capri in the City is poised to be one of London’s most in-demand seasonal experiences. With limited access to a space typically off-limits, and a concept that blends luxury hospitality with escapist design, it offers a timely reminder that the allure of the Italian summer continues to resonate especially when it arrives with a skyline view.

maybourne.com

apartment style hotel in the heart of Parnell

Quest Parnell o ersContemporary apartment style hotel in the

• Heated lap pool

• Heated lap pool

heart of Parnell

Quest Parnell offers –

• Close to CBD, Spark Arena & Museum

• Secure undercover parking

• Secure undercover parking

• 50 Inch Smart TV & Sky Sport

• 50 Inch Smart TV & Sky Sport

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

• Conference Suite (up to 25 PAX)

• Conference Suite (up to 25 PAX)

• Studio

• Studio

• 1 bedroom

• 1 bedroom

• 2 bedroom (2 bathroom)

• Close to CBD, Spark Arena & Museum

• 2 bedroom (2 bathroom)

8 Heather Street, Parnell, Auckland reservations@questparnell.co.nz 09 337 0804 questparnell.co.nz

8 Heather Street, Parnell, Auckland reservations@questparnell.co.nz 09 337 0804

questparnell.co.nz

KIWI STORYTELLERS

Founded by visionary entrepreneur David Wyatt, the KiwiStoryGroup is redefining the way New Zealand businesses connect with kiwi audiences online through authentic storytelling videos.

Mr Wyatt’s simple but powerful vision: to celebrate the stories behind New Zealand businesses in a way that connects with their customers and helps them stand out in a highly competitive marketplace. The result is a creative platform called Kiwi Brand Stories that launched in June and blends authenticity, personality and premium production values into videos that not only look exceptional but also drive real engagement.

At its core, the team behind Kiwi Brand Stories understand something many businesses overlook: customers do not just buy products or services anymore. They buy values, personalities, experiences and emotional connection. Whether it’s a small family owned business, an emerging entrepreneur or an established

national brand the team uncover the heart of the business and bring it to life through compelling online video stories.

“Customersconnectwithyourbusinesswhen they understand the “who” and “why” behind whatyoudo,butmostimportantlytheywantto knowwhatproblemyousolveforthem,”says Mr Wyatt. "Somanybusinesseswanttogetstraight to talking about what the product is or how long the company has been around, but, first youneedtohooktheviewerinbyestablishing the problem they have and showing them the positive outcome of using your product or service–ortheconsequencesiftheydon’t”

What sets Kiwi Brand Stories apart is the use of relatable kiwi personalities like Robert Scott and Trudi Nelson as presenters. The presenters interview a spokesperson from each business in a professional recording studio which helps add credibility to their story. It also helps get around the most kiwi of problems – sometimes we don’t like to sing our own praises.

To “flip the script” on this problem Robert and Trudi are there to set up the conversation about why a business is the best and validate the product or service before letting the spokesperson focus on showing the proof.

“Customers connect with your business when they understand the “who” and “why” behind what you do, but most importantly they want to know what problem you solve for them,”

This partnership between the presenter and the business elevates KiwiBrandStoriesfar beyond traditional advertising. Instead of scripted sales messaging, the content feels conversational, warm and authentic allowing viewers to connect emotionally with the people and businesses behind the brand. It captures the human side of business. The passion. The journey. The reason why a company exists in the first place and delivers it in a way that makes the customer pay attention.

The production quality itself is another defining strength. Kiwi Brand Stories combine a professionally edited in-studio interview with high quality footage of each company in action. Everything about the process is created for a modern digital landscape with the output being a 3-5min full length video designed for a company website alongside 30-60s social media videos with quick cuts, graphics and captions all designed to immediately engage with customers as they scroll their social feeds.

This production involves over a dozen experts from start to finish from writers, videographers, video editors, graphic designers and a social media agency to the in-studio team whose job is to capture each spokesperson in the best light and help them feel at ease before being on camera. “Ichose topartnerwithJay-JayFeeney,DomHarveyandtheteamatPodLabfor filmingourinterviewsbecauseofhowmuchtheycareabouteveryperson whowalksintotheirrecordingstudio.Iknowbeingoncameracanmake peoplenervoussoourjobistomakesurepeoplearerelaxedandhaving funsotheycantelltheirstorywell”

“First you need to hook the viewer in by establishing the problem they have and showing them the positive outcome of using your product or service – or the consequences if they don’t”

For many clients, the process itself becomes transformational. Businesses often discover new confidence in sharing their story, while audiences gain deeper insight into the people behind the brand. KiwiBrandStorieshelps companies articulate not only what they do, but why they do it and that emotional connection is there to turn viewers into loyal customers.

There is also something distinctly New Zealand about the Kiwi Brand Stories approach. It celebrates local success, innovation and entrepreneurship while embracing the warmth and honesty that define Kiwi culture. The storytelling always feels grounded, relatable and real because it’s simply a conversation between real people about a great kiwi business.

Ultimately, Kiwi Brand Stories is about far more than content creation. As Mr Wyatt explains it, “I’ve spent the last year talking with New Zealandbusinessowners,foundersandCEOsandtheyallhaveastory totell.ThepartofmyjobIlovemostisseeingthatstoryfirsthandand whetherit'shen’srunningaroundafarmintheWaikato,productmoving alongafactorylineinSouthAucklandorthelatestsoftwarebeingcreated onalaptop,IseepassionforbusinesseverywhereinNewZealand.Iwant tosharethatpassionwithotherkiwissotheycanbeasproudasIamof whatwe’reachievingrighthereathome.”

Create your business story at kiwistory.co.nz

SWARNA MANDAPA:

A Sacred Luxury Retreat Bringing Bali’s Soul to New Zealand Travellers

Set within the dramatic coastal landscape of Uluwatu on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, Swarna Mandapa is redefining what boutique luxury accommodation looks like for discerning travellers, including a growing New Zealand audience seeking something beyond the ordinary. Designed and developed by New Zealander Ed Coutts, Swarna Mandapa is a rare fusion of cultural heritage, architectural artistry and contemporary comfort. It is a place where history is not simply referenced but lived within offering guests a stay that feels both deeply authentic and quietly transformative.

Luxury here is expressed through space, detail and atmosphere. Its glamourous yet earthy. Behind majestic hand-carved gates, the residence reveals five luxurious ensuite bedrooms (including four main guest suites within the villa configuration), a private 10 metre pool, expansive living areas, and a sense of calm that immediately disconnects guests from the outside world. From golden hues reflecting Bali’s tropical warmth to refined architectural golden detailing, every element tells a

story of grace and design. Swarna Mandapa began life as a spiritual teaching site, once home to a Balinese high priest who spent over two decades instructing students in the sacred art of stone carving. That legacy remains embedded in the structure today. Every carved wall, door and architectural fragment has been carefully preserved and reincorporated into the rebuild, creating a property where past and present exist in seamless harmony.

“SwarnaMandapaisalivingtributetoBali’sspiritualartistry andtimelessdesign,” says Coutts.“Everydetailcarries meaning.It’sahomethatfeelsalivewithhistorybutdesigned formodernluxuryliving.”

The accommodation itself is designed to elevate the guest experience well beyond expectation. The Grand Master Suite (150sqm) is a private sanctuary featuring a Super King designer bed, open-plan bathroom with claw-foot bathtub, dedicated lounge with 65-inch smart TV, and three sets of bifold doors opening onto a large balcony framed by tropical planting, perfect for sunset viewing.

The Master Guest Suite (90sqm) offers a Super King bed, freestanding claw-foot bath, and a serene indoor-outdoor flow leading to a traditional Balinese pavilion, complete with intricate gold and white detailing and soft garden breezes. Three additional guest bedrooms each feature custom king beds, premium ensuite bathrooms, and elegant Balinese design touches, maintaining the same level of comfort and refinement throughout.

Outside, a private pool and landscaped gardens create a resort-like atmosphere of complete seclusion, ideal for long stays, family gatherings, or shared escapes with friends.

What sets Swarna Mandapa apart for New Zealand travellers is its balance of familiarity and discovery. Coutts has intentionally woven in the kind of considered details Kiwi guests appreciate, generous space, intuitive design, high-quality natural materials, a great kitchen with coffee machine and a sense of ease that feels effortless rather than staged.

Service is discreet and personalised, with tailored experiences ranging from in-villa dining to curated local recommendations across Uluwatu’s beaches, cliffside dining, surf breaks and wellness retreats. For New Zealanders seeking a luxury escape that goes beyond the typical villa experience, Swarna Mandapa offers something rare: a place where design, culture and comfort meet with meaning.

MakeSwarnaMandapapartofyourstory.

swarnamandapa.com

ON THE POINT – LAKE ROTORUA

Set on the tranquil, scenic shores of Lake Rotorua, On The Point is a boutique retreat that merges seclusion with a deep connection to the region. Less than 10 minutes from the city centre, the site strikes that rare balance: close enough to dip into Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, cultural experiences and adventure offerings, yet far enough removed to deliver genuine calm and relaxation.

Locally owned and operated, and proudly independent, the lodge boasts some serious credentials, holding a coveted Qualmark Gold rating and recently named Allied Operator of the Year (Medium Business) for 2025.

A significant refurbishment has further elevated the experience, blending classic lodge charm with a fresh, contemporary finish. Five acres of manicured grounds stretch down to the lake’s edge, creating a private, gated sanctuary. Guests can wander through gardens, meet resident farm animals, or simply take in the stillness of the water. For those wanting to stay active, there’s a tennis court and gymnasium, while a massage offering provides the perfect counterbalance.

Accommodation at On The Point epitomises understated luxury, with a collection of suites and rooms designed to maximise both comfort and connection to the lake – most have wonderful water views! Many suites feature fireplaces and spa baths, adding an extra layer of indulgence, particularly in the cooler months. It’s the kind of place where you can just as easily hole up for a full day – room service, a book, those views –as you can use it as a base to explore everything Rotorua has to offer.

Food is another standout. The lodge leans into a genuine garden-to-plate philosophy, with its own vegetable garden, fruit trees and chickens supplying fresh eggs daily.

This hyper-local approach is complemented by partnerships with regional producers, resulting in a fine dining experience that feels both elevated and grounded in place. From the property’s jetty, guests can even be collected for floatplane excursions or jetboat rides – stepping straight from serenity into some of Rotorua’s most memorable experiences. It’s a seamless transition that few properties can offer.

Underlying it all is a team consistently praised for their warmth and attentiveness, reflected across TripAdvisor and Google reviews. It’s that human element – genuine, intuitive service – that ties everything together. In a region known for its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, On The Point adds a little extra: a refined, intimate base that enhances every part of the Rotorua experience.

onthepoint.co.nz

214 Kawaha Point Road, Rotorua info@onthepoint.co.nz (07) 348 4868

A

A Taste of Northland

Exquisite beachside property with large, modern-designed studios and suites all with kitchenettes.Perfectly located to north Auckland’s best golf courses: Gulf Harbour, Wainui, Whangaparaoa, South-head and many more. Offering outstanding service, located on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula near Orewa & Gulf Harbour just 40 minutes north of Auckland city.

Exquisite beachside resort with large, modern-designed studios and suites all with kitchenettes. Perfectly located to north Auckland’s best golf courses: Wainui, Whangaparaoa, South-Head and many more. Offering outstanding service, located on the Whanagaparaoa Peninsula near Orewa and Gulf Harbour just 40 minutes north of Auckland city.

874 Whangaparaoa Road, Little Manly, Auckland reservations@whangaparaoalodge.com +64 9 428 4666

874 Whangaparoa Road, Little Manly, Auckland reservations@whangaparoaloadge.com +64 9 428 4666

WWW.WHANGAPAROALODGE.CO.NZ

WWW.WHANGAPARAOALODGE.CO.NZ

Peace, tranquillity and outstanding service at Kerikeri Park Lodge with spacious, modern studio and suites all with full kitchens. Enjoy nearby Kerikeri township, the Old Packhouse market and Makana Chocolate factory. Offering exclusive golf packages at Northland’s best courses: Kauri Cliff’s,Waitangi, Kerikeri and Carrington. Come to play in our piece of paradise.

Peace, tranquillity and outstanding service at Kerikeri Park Lodge with spacious, modern studio and suites all with full kitchens. Enjoy nearby Kerikeri township, historical Paihia & Russell, wineries and cycle trails. Offering exclusive golf packages at Northland’s best courses: Kauri Cliff’s, Waitangi, Kerikeri and Carrington. Come to play in our piece of paradise.

494B Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri 0293 reservations@kerikeriparklodge.com +64 9 407 7464

494B Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri 0293 reservations@kerikeriparklodge.com +64 9 407 7464

WWW.KERIKERIPARKLODGE.COM

WWW.KERIKERIPARKLODGE.COM

We do everything, so you don’t need to!

FOR OUR FURRY FRIENDS

Bonno’s

Bonno’s Natural Mānuka Wood Dog Chews satisfy your dog’s instinctive need to chew. Ethically sourced, slow-dried Mānuka wood is debarked, treated with New Zealand flaxseed oil, and hand-finished to a smooth texture. Durable, natural and long-lasting, Bonno chews keep dogs engaged while supporting dental health as their first choice for mindful chewing. bonno.nz

Himalayan K9Chews

BestMate Himalayan K9Chew (comes in all sizes for your dog) is a 100% natural dog treat based on an original ancient recipe from the Himalayan region of Nepal. Handcrafted using a traditional cheese making process, this hard cheese chew is a true dogs delight. A healthy snack with an irresistible cheese taste. bestmatepets.co.nz

Neem

Explore the Nativeneem range of natural pet care products, designed for everyday use to support skin, coat and overall pet wellbeing. Made with neem and carefully selected botanicals, each product offers a gentle, balanced approach to maintaining healthy skin and a glossy coat as part of a regular care routine. nativeneem.com

5 Fresh Ways to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy

1. Let Them Sniff the World Walks aren't just for exercise. Allowing your dog time to sniff and explore provides valuable mental stimulation and reduces stress.

2. Mix Up Their Menu

Add dog-safe fresh foods such as carrots, blueberries or pumpkin to provide variety and extra nutrients.

3. Create Daily Adventures

Change your walking route, visit a new beach or explore a local park. New experiences keep dogs curious and engaged.

4. Prioritise Play Over the human being on their screens

Ten minutes of tug-of-war, fetch or training games can strengthen your bond while keeping your dog physically active.

5. Watch the Small Changes

A decrease in energy, appetite or enthusiasm can be an early sign something isn't right. Knowing your dog's normal behaviour is one of the best health tools you have.

A healthy dog isn't just about good food and exercise—it's about creating a life filled with enrichment, connection and plenty of tail-wagging moments.

NORTHLAND EVENTS

Charity in Northland

TheNorthland Women’s Club hosted a successful Everybody Eats Dinner Party at The Gables Osteria & Enoteca, marking the official Northland launch of the Everybody Eats charity initiative. The event highlighted efforts to address food insecurity in the region through community dining and fundraising. Guests were treated to a curated menu created by chefs Kia Kanuta, Jono Thevenard, and Cye Maddocks, each showcasing contemporary techniques and locally sourced ingredients. The evening brought together community leaders and supporters, raising more than $10,000 to fund meals for those in need. The launch underscored growing local engagement in collaborative solutions to food insecurity. northlandwomensclub.co.nz everybodyeats.nz thegablesrestaurant.co.nz

Northland Women's Club Charity Networking Event held at Kai Mata Restaurant in Kerikeri

TheNorthland Women’s Club is a vibrant New Zealand charity and growing network of experienced businesswomen and community leaders dedicated to connection, knowledge sharing, and empowerment. Rooted in collaboration and shared wisdom, the Club exists to inspire women at every stage of their professional and personal journey, creating opportunities for growth, leadership, and meaningful impact within the wider community.

By bringing together women with diverse experience across business, creativity, and leadership, the Club continues to build a strong, supportive network that champions capability, generosity, and purpose-driven action throughout Northland and beyond.

northlandwomensclub.co.nz

A GLOBAL DINING EXPERIENCE AT EIGHT RESTAURANT

Eight Restaurant is a well-known premium buffet dining destination located inside the Cordis, Auckland. Renowned for its interactive concept, the restaurant offers a unique culinary experience centred around eight distinct international kitchens, each hosted by specialist chefs. This format allows diners to watch their meals being prepared fresh, adding an engaging, theatrical element to the dining experience.

The restaurant showcases a wide range of global cuisines, including seafood, Asian, Indian, European, and grill dishes. Guests can expect offerings such as sushi and sashimi made to order, tandoor-cooked meats, dim sum, fresh salads, and premium cuts cooked on demand. A standout feature is the extensive seafood selection, alongside a popular dessert station that often includes pastries, cakes, and a flowing chocolate fountain.

Eight is typically positioned as a destination for special occasions, from birthdays to anniversaries, with a lively yet upscale atmosphere. Its buffet style encourages diners to explore a variety of flavours in one sitting, making it appealing for groups with diverse tastes. Pricing reflects its premium positioning, with dinner costing significantly more than standard dining options in Auckland.

Customer feedback on Eight Restaurant is mixed. Many diners praise the variety of food, the interactive cooking stations, and the overall experience, particularly for breakfast or celebratory occasions.

However, others note inconsistencies in food quality and question whether the experience justifies the high price point, especially during busy dinner services.

Overall, Eight Restaurant offers a distinctive buffet experience that combines variety, theatre, and global cuisine under one roof. While it remains a popular choice for celebrations and visitors seeking an all you can eat luxury experience, opinions vary on whether it consistently delivers value for money.

eightrestaurant.co.nz

BOSSI

BOSSI Brings Warmth and Italian Soul to Auckland CBD

Auckland

city is filled with fast dining, quick decisions, and even quicker turnover. BOSSI is doing something different and Aucklanders are noticing. The restaurant has become one of the city’s most quietly talked-about dining destinations, where guests are choosing to slow down, stay longer, and return again. As the temperature drops, BOSSI is thriving on something increasingly rare in the city: warmth, atmosphere, and food that feels like it has a story behind it.

This is BOSSI a restaurant that doesn’t just serve Italian cuisine, but curates an experience of Italia in Aotearoa.

At the heart of its growing reputation is a menu that refuses to stand still. BOSSI is built around a seasonal philosophy, with dishes evolving throughout the year to reflect the best available ingredients and the natural rhythm of Italian dining. The result is a menu that feels alive, shifting from lighter, vibrant summer plates to rich, comforting winter dishes designed for sharing, warmth, and long conversations at the table.

In winter, the kitchen leans into depth and comfort: handmade pasta with slow-cooked sauces, rich reductions, fresh antipasti, and dishes that celebrate simplicity done exceptionally well. As the seasons change, so too does the menu ensuring returning guests always find something familiar, alongside something new to discover. It is this constant evolution that has made BOSSI a destination for both regulars and first-time diners seeking something genuine in the CBD.

Perfectly aligned with this approach is owner and operator Jenna Carter, whose vision for BOSSI is deeply personal. She cares about her staff and her customers, but more than anything she sees BOSSI as an extension of her upbringing and family heritage.

“Itissomethingextremelyclosetomyheart,” she says. “ComingfromalargeItalianfamilyand growingupcookinginthekitchenwithNonna, therearegenerationsoffamilyrecipestoshare.”

That sense of legacy is present in every layer of the restaurant from the way dishes are developed, to the tone of service, and the feeling that guests are stepping into something familiar rather than formal. BOSSI is designed to feel personal, even in the middle of the city.

In a dining scene as competitive and fast-moving as Auckland’s, BOSSI has quietly carved out its place by focusing on what diners are increasingly searching for: authenticity, consistency, and emotional connection through food.

Winter, in particular, has become BOSSI’s defining season. As the city cools, the restaurant transforms into a warm, welcoming space where soft lighting, the sound of conversation, and the aroma of freshly prepared pasta create an atmosphere that encourages people to stay longer than planned. It is the kind of place where a casual dinner naturally turns into a lingering evening.

At the culinary helm is Executive Chef Shaun Dowling, whose approach to Italian cuisine is shaped by both global experience and personal philosophy. “I am passionate about different cuisine and foods,” Dowling says. “Born in Auckland and living abroad for the last 12 years,Ibelievethatfoodiseverythingweare. It is an extension of your ethnic feeling, your personal history, your region, your tribe, and your experiences and memories with your grandparents.” For Dowling, BOSSI is not about replicating Italy it is about interpreting it through New Zealand’s lens while honouring its traditions.

“IspecialiseinItaliancuisineandIbelievethat mixing classic techniques and New Zealand customs with my passion for Italian food transformsmycreationsintoauthenticdishes,” he says. “Wealleat,buteatingatBOSSItakes you on a journey that will bring back the memories that we all miss and love.”

That philosophy is reflected in every plate leaving the kitchen. From handmade pasta to carefully balanced sauces and thoughtfully selected wines,

the focus is always on connection, food that feels both comforting and considered. That sense of family both literal and culinary runs through BOSSI. It is present in the way staff engage with guests, in the relaxed rhythm of service, and in the consistency that has earned the restaurant a loyal following in a highly competitive CBD dining landscape.

As Auckland continues to evolve as a dining destination, BOSSI stands as a reminder that success in hospitality is not defined by trends or noise. It is built on something far more enduring: warmth, memory, and the ability to make people feel at home in the middle of a busy city.

BOSSI is thriving not by chasing attention, but by staying true to its rhythm offering a place to slow down, connect, and experience a little piece of Italy, right in the heart of Auckland.

Bossi.co.nz

EYE AWARDS 2026

THE BEST OF AUCKLAND

Best Date Night Restaurant: Bossi

Romantic without trying too hard, Bossi nails the ingredients for a memorable date night: exceptional Italian cuisine, warm hospitality and a sophisticated atmosphere. Tucked beneath The Pacifica in Auckland's CBD, it's become a favourite for couples seeking a special evening out, with diners consistently praising both the food and the experience. bossi.co.nz

Best Club Lounge Experience: Cordis Auckland

For travellers who appreciate the finer details, Cordis Auckland's Club Lounge delivers an elevated hotel experience from check-in to checkout. Perched high above the city, guests enjoy exclusive access to all-day refreshments, afternoon tea, evening canapés and drinks, alongside personalised service and panoramic Auckland views. It's the perfect blend of luxury, comfort and convenience.

cordishotels.com

Best Mediterranean Dining: Gerome

Bringing a slice of the Mediterranean to the heart of Parnell, Gerome has mastered the art of relaxed yet refined dining. Inspired by Greek cooking traditions and showcasing the best of New Zealand's seasonal produce, the menu centres around wood-fired and chargrilled dishes designed for sharing. Combined with its beautifully designed interior and warm hospitality, Gerome offers the kind of dining experience that transports you far beyond Auckland. gerome.nz

Best Staycation: Grand Millennium Auckland

A true city escape without leaving Auckland, Grand Millennium offers spacious rooms, premium amenities and a central location that puts the best of the city within easy reach. Whether it's a weekend recharge, a theatre getaway or a special celebration, it's the kind of staycation that feels worlds away from everyday life. millenniumhotels.com

Best Cocktails: Morell Bistro & Bar

Morell has quickly become one of Auckland's most exciting destinations for cocktail lovers. Combining creativity, precision and a touch of theatre, the cocktail menu showcases expertly crafted drinks that are as visually impressive as they are delicious. Whether you're settling in for pre-dinner drinks or making a night of it, every pour feels like an occasion. morell.co.nz

GOKU

A Refined Take on Japanese Dining in New Zealand

Blendingtradition with a distinctly New Zealand sensibility, GOKU has carved out a unique space in the local dining scene. With locations in Queenstown and Auckland, the restaurant offers a contemporary interpretation of Japanese cuisine, grounded in authenticity and elevated through carefully sourced ingredients and thoughtful presentation.

Founded in 2020, GOKU began as a specialist hot pot destination, focusing on shabu shabu and sukiyaki. These traditional Japanese dishes centre around communal dining, where thinly sliced meats, seafood, and vegetables are cooked at the table in a delicate, house-made dashi broth. This interactive style of eating is central to the GOKU experience, inviting diners to slow down and engage with both the food and each other.

At its Queenstown location, GOKU remains true to these roots, offering a menu that celebrates premium ingredients sourced from both Japan and New Zealand. Fresh seafood such as crayfish, paua, and oysters sit alongside high-quality wagyu, creating a balance between local provenance and Japanese culinary tradition.

In contrast, the Auckland restaurant introduces a more refined, Kappō-style dining experience. Here, the focus shifts to seasonality, precision, and craftsmanship, with chefs preparing dishes in front of guests. This approach highlights the artistry behind Japanese cuisine, transforming each meal into a more intimate and immersive experience. Across both locations, GOKU’s philosophy centres on harmony.

The brand brings together Japanese techniques, New Zealand produce, and a strong sense of hospitality to create something that feels both authentic and accessible. The result is a dining experience that is not only about flavour, but about connection, atmosphere, and the ritual of sharing food.

Whether it is the comforting warmth of a simmering hot pot or the precision of a chef-led tasting experience, GOKU delivers a modern expression of Japanese dining that feels considered, elevated, and memorable.

goku.co.nz

GEROME

There is something wonderfully timeless about a long lunch shared with friends. At Gerome, the table becomes more than a place to dine, it becomes a celebration of connection, laughter, flavour and the simple joy of being together.

Captured in the vibrant energy of the afternoon are some of Auckland’s stylish and creative women: Franceska Marsic, Eye Magazine's City Living editor, beautiful model and wedding celebrant Franceilli McWilliams, creative interior designer Lu Borges and fabulous events and features manager Megan Prime. Cocktails in hand, they embody the spirit that Gerome has become known for, relaxed sophistication, effortless hospitality and the warmth of gathering around exceptional food.

Inspired by the Greek philosophy of sharing meals with family and friends, Gerome delivers a dining experience that feels both luxurious and inviting. The atmosphere hums with conversation and celebration, where wood fired meats, fresh seafood and seasonal New Zealand produce meet the bold flavours of the Mediterranean. From Aegean cheeses and fragrant herbs to dishes kissed by the chargrill, every plate tells a story of tradition reimagined for modern Auckland dining.

Situated in the heart of Parnell’s bustling strip of boutiques and restaurants, Gerome is far more than simply an eatery. It is an immersive experience, elegant interiors, attentive service, unforgettable cocktails and the kind of vibrant energy that keeps guests lingering long after lunch has ended. The staff get to know you by name and their unintrusive yet attentive service is always on point.

Whether it’s a glamorous girls’ afternoon, an intimate dinner, or a special celebration, Gerome captures the essence of what dining should be: generous, joyful and shared with the people you love most.

gerome.nz

info@gerome.nz

Opening Hours: Monday – Wednesday & Sunday: 12pm – 10pm Thursday – Saturday: 12pm – 11pm GEROME – Modern Greek

CĀNTĪNG BY NIC WATT

Auckland’s New Modern Chinese Dining Experience Lands at Commercial Bay

Auckland’s dining scene welcomes an exciting new arrival with the opening of Cāntīng, a smart-casual yet elevated modern Chinese and Asian restaurant and bar from acclaimed chef Nic Watt. Located in the heart of Commercial Bay, Cāntīng brings a vibrant, contemporary edge to Asian dining where bold flavour, refined technique, and creative energy meet in one dynamic space.

At Cāntīng, tradition is reimagined through a modern lens. Each dish is designed to stand confidently on its own, celebrating the diversity of Asian cuisine while delivering something fresh, expressive, and unexpected. The result is a menu that feels both familiar and entirely new, a journey through texture, balance, and storytelling on the plate.

A standout feature of the restaurant is the open kitchen, anchored by the signature Duck Oven, a glowing centrepiece where Cāntīng’s must-try BBQ Duck takes pride of place. The theatre of flame, aroma, and movement sets the tone for an immersive dining experience that reflects Nic Watt’s distinctive hospitality style.

The menu showcases an elevated take on Asian favourites, from handcrafted dim sum and delicate sashimi to King Crab leg and a refined interpretation of King Prawn and Sesame Toast. Every dish is designed to surprise, delight, and linger in memory.

Lunch at Cāntīng introduces a new ritual for Auckland diners with a modern Yum Cha experience, served daily from midday to 3pm. Familiar comfort meets contemporary finesse in a setting designed for long, relaxed afternoons shared over plates of flavour-packed dishes.

For Nic Watt, Cāntīng represents both a continuation and evolution of his culinary journey. “I’mreallyexcitedtobeinthe

Commercial Bay precinct and part of such a stellar line-up of chefs and operators within this vibrant food and beverage community,” says Watt. “With Cāntīng, we’re showcasing a modern Chinese concept to the Auckland market with flavour, texture, and culinary storytelling in abundance. I can’t wait to welcomeeveryonetoexperienceit.”

From its contemporary design and lively energy to its inventive approach to Asian cuisine, Cāntīng is set to redefine modern Chinese dining in Auckland.

Cāntīng by Nic Watt is now open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner, with Yum Cha from midday daily, and signature bottomless brunch every Sunday.

canting.nz

Editor’s Note / About Cāntīng

Cāntīng by Nic Watt is an upmarket modern Chinese and Asian restaurant and bar located at Commercial Bay, Auckland. Led by renowned chef Nic Watt, Cāntīng delivers a vibrant, modern interpretation of Chinese dining, where tradition and innovation meet across a menu of beautifully crafted dishes. Highlights include the signature Cāntīng BBQ Duck, an open Duck Oven hearth, hand-made dim sum, fresh sashimi, and a modern Yum Cha experience from 12 daily.

INCA PONSONBY

Where

Latin America Meets Japan in One of Auckland’s

Most Electrifying Dining Experiences

AtINCA Ponsonby, every dish is as layered as it is lively, balancing heat, citrus, umami, and precision in equal measure. As chef Nic Watt describes it, “INCA is where Latin America meets Asia, a beautiful collision of culture,flavour,andfire.”

This is Nikkei dining at its most dynamic. The menu draws on the culinary traditions of Japan and Peru, reimagined through Watt’s signature creativity and fire led cooking style. From vibrant ceviches and flame kissed proteins to bold, shareable plates designed for the table, every bite delivers contrast, energy, and intent.

The drinks list continues the journey in full colour. Guests can enjoy signature pisco sours or explore a standout margarita selection featuring some of the best in Auckland. An extensive wine list has also been carefully curated to complement the restaurant’s bold, bright flavour profile.

A Vision Realised

For Nic Watt, INCA Ponsonby represents more than a restaurant opening. It is the realisation of a long held vision.

“AssoonasIsawthesiteatPonsonbyCentral, I knew it was perfect,” says Watt. “With its openfloorplan,highceilings,naturallightand alfrescoseating,ittickedalltheboxes.Ijusthad tomakeithappen.”

INCA sits alongside Watt’s acclaimed portfolio, including MASU by Nic Watt at SKYCITY and Cāntīng in Commercial Bay, further cementing his reputation as one of New Zealand’s most innovative culinary voices.

A Dining Experience That Continues to Ignite Auckland

Since opening, INCA Ponsonby has established itself as one of Auckland’s most talked about dining destinations.

Its blend of energy, precision, and atmosphere has resonated with diners seeking something immersive, expressive, and distinctly different.

Nearly three years on, the restaurant continues to draw crowds to Ponsonby Central, where guests are welcomed into a space that pulses with warmth, rhythm, and theatre. Designed in collaboration with CTRL Space, the interior features an open hearth as its centrepiece, surrounded by tactile textures, pink marble, and sculptural surfaces that reflect the spirit of both Peru and Japan.

The result is a dining room that feels both raw and refined, setting the stage for what unfolds at the table.

Flavours That Tell a Story

The menu celebrates the deep connection between Japanese technique and Peruvian soul, elevated through Watt’s creative lens.

Signature dishes include Pacific kingfish ceviche with coconut, coriander and aji chilli, INCA style tableside guacamole, black cod marinated in anticucho miso cooked over coffee charcoal embers with ancho chilli daikon, and chorizo spiced kurobuta pork gyoza with black vinegar and toasted sesame.

Each dish is designed to be shared, explored, and remembered.

Taste the Collision

If you have not yet experienced it, INCA Ponsonby is an invitation to dive in. Book a table, bring your appetite, and discover a dining experience where Latin America meets Japan in the heart of Auckland.

incarestaurant.co.nz

INSIDE THE CULINARY WORLD

1.) Aarth

2.) Arte della Pasta

One of Parnell’s most exciting openings, Aarth is quickly making its mark on Auckland’s dining scene. Delivering a bold, modern take on Indian cuisine, Aarth strips things back to what matters - flavour, balance and intention in line with the meaning of Aarth - which means ‘meaning’ The menu is vibrant and confident, reworking traditional dishes with a refined, contemporary edge, while still honouring their roots. Paired with a warm, intimate space, it’s the kind of restaurant that feels both elevated and effortlessly welcoming. For those looking for something fresh, thoughtful and genuinely memorable, Aarth is one to know now. aarth.co.nz

4.) A Little Bluebells Moment

Auckland favourite Bluebells Cakery has long been known for its beautifully crafted cakes and refined, nostalgic charm. From delicate celebration cakes to perfectly executed cupcakes and sweet treats, everything is made with a focus on quality ingredients and timeless style. With three locations across the city, Kingsland, Commercial Bay and Auckland Airport Domestic Terminal, its never been easier to enjoy a little Bluebells moment. The airport store is ideal for a last-minute gift or treat before take-off. With its signature soft aesthetic and attention to detail, Bluebells feels both special and approachable, an everyday luxury done beautifully. bluebellscakery.com

Auckland chef Mirella Kostandini is championing a return to simple, handmade cooking with her Newmarket restaurant Arte della Pasta. Just four years since opening, she has built a loyal following drawn to her relaxed, family style approach and generous, good-value dishes. As concerns grow around ultra processed foods and rising costs, Mirella’s philosophy is clear, real food, made from scratch, offers better flavour, greater satisfaction and lasting value. Her hands on pasta classes are also gaining momentum, bringing people together through cooking, connection and a shared appreciation for honest, traditional food. artedellapasta.com

5.) Taylors Estate Syrah

Taylors Wines proudly introduces its Estate Syrah 2024, New Zealand's first Australian Syrah, showcasing a refined alternative to traditional bold reds. Sourced from Adelaide Hills, this lighter, elegant wine boasts vibrant raspberry and strawberry flavors, subtle spice, and creamy oak, culminating in a long finish. Winemaker and Chairman Mitchell Taylor emphasizes its versatility, making it ideal for both hearty dishes and lighter fare. Perfect for gatherings, it adapts to any occasion, embodying effortless enjoyment. Available now at select retailers nationwide for $19.99, this Syrah is ready to enjoy and will cellar well through 2032. taylorswines.com.au

3.) BREWÉ

Iced Oat Caramel Latte by Brewé delivers smooth barista style coffee with creamy oat milk and subtle caramel sweetness. Crafted for convenience, it is dairy free, low calorie, and full of flavour. Perfect served cold, poured over ice, or paired with desserts and brunch dishes for cafés homes events menus everywhere. Designed for busy lifestyles, Brewé offers a refreshing café-quality experience without compromise. Its balanced blend of rich coffee and velvety oat milk creates a satisfying drink for any time of day. Whether enjoyed on the go, at work, or during relaxed weekend catchups, Brewé brings indulgent flavour with every sip. Brewe.co.nz

6.) Sofitel

Sofitel is redefining luxury breakfast with the launch of Fruit Kiss, the latest chapter of its acclaimed La Haute Croissanterie collection. Available until July 2026 across 36 Sofitel properties worldwide, the limited-edition range features ten handcrafted fruit-inspired croissants created by Sofitel pastry chefs. Highlights include Raspberry Kiss with basil-infused jam, Cherry Kiss celebrating seasonal fruit, and Fig Kiss finished with mascarpone and gold leaf. Available throughout Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, the collection transforms the classic croissant into an elevated culinary experience, further cementing Sofitel as a global destination for luxury dining and French-inspired. sofitel.accor.com

YOUR NEW FAVOURITE PARNELL BRUNCH Spot

EYE SIPS

BATCHED Espresso S'moretini | $49.99

BATCHED have taken the classic Espresso Martini and given it a decadent twist. Bold cold-brew coffee and smooth vodka meet the nostalgic flavours of s'mores, fluffy marshmallow, rich chocolate, and a hint of biscuit. Simply pour into a shaker with ice, shake for 20 seconds and strain into a glass to enjoy. Convenient, quick, consistent and delicious - pour after pour. For the perfect serve, rim a glass with melted chocolate and crushed biscuits, then garnish with toasted marshmallows.

batched.co.nz

SLUSHi Max™ | $699.99

The new Ninja SLUSHi Max™ is Ninja’s biggest, fastest and smartest slushing system yet, designed to turn almost any drink into smooth frozen slush with no ice or blending required. Featuring a generous 4.4L XL vessel and exclusive SlushAssist Technology, it’s built to make at-home entertaining easier than ever.

ninjakitchen.co.nz

PIZZA, FRIENDS, and fun

EYE WINTER | PARNELL PIZZA PARTY

Parnell’s Pizza Era

There’s a reason Parnell has quietly become Auckland’s most compelling pizza destination. Within a few walkable blocks, New York slices sit alongside true Neapolitan craftsmanship, Northern Italian classics, indulgent Chicago deep dish, and neighbourhood institutions that have perfected the art of long lunches and late-night comfort food. This winter, Parnell isn’t just serving pizza — it’s serving personality.

Think bubbling mozzarella, slow-fermented doughs, imported Italian ingredients, cult favourite crusts, candlelit corners, and restaurants filled with the kind of atmosphere that turns dinner into a lingering evening. Whether you’re after elegant simplicity or unapologetic indulgence, Parnell’s pizza scene delivers it all.

Welcome to the Parnell Pizza Party.

SAL’S

AUTHENTIC NEW YORK PIZZA

Hero Pizza: The Classic New York Pepperoni

If there’s one place bringing the unmistakable energy of New York pizza culture to Parnell, it’s Sal’s. Their legendary oversized pies are built on authenticity — from genuine New York-milled hard spring wheat flour to premium Wisconsin mozzarella and vine-ripened California tomatoes.

The result? A foldable crust that’s crisp on the outside, light and airy within, topped with bubbling cheese and that iconic pepperoni hit New Yorkers swear by. Available by the slice or as a full 18-inch pie, Sal’s delivers the kind of pizza best eaten hot, shared loudly, and paired with good company. Sal’s doesn’t imitate New York pizza culture — it imports it.

LA PORCHETTA PARNELL

Hero Pizza: Prosciutto Pizza

Elegant in its simplicity, La Porchetta’s Prosciutto Pizza is a reminder that the best Italian dishes don’t need overcomplicating. Originating from Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, this customer favourite layers fresh mozzarella, premium prosciutto, peppery rocket, shaved parmesan and balsamic glaze over a traditional tomato base. The balance is what makes it memorable — salty, creamy, fresh and bright all at once.

For more than 20 years, La Porchetta has been part of Parnell’s dining landscape, offering relaxed hospitality, generous comfort food and the kind of welcoming atmosphere that keeps generations returning. It’s familiar, warm, and exactly the sort of place where pizza nights naturally stretch into dessert.

RUGANTINI’S

Hero Pizza: Pere e Gorgonzola

At Rugantini’s, pizza leans romantic. Their much-loved Pere e Gorgonzola pairs pear, honey, creamy gorgonzola, rocket and crunchy walnuts for a combination that feels distinctly Northern Italian — rich, sweet, savoury and beautifully balanced.

It’s the kind of pizza designed for winter evenings and red wine. Tucked into the heart of Parnell, Rugantini’s has earned its place as a neighbourhood favourite thanks to its cosy atmosphere and deeply comforting Italian menu. Handcrafted pizzas, hearty pastas and warm hospitality make this a restaurant people return to not just for the food, but for the feeling.

NON SOLO PIZZA

Hero Pizza: Prosciutto Crudo

Non Solo Pizza has long mastered the art of the long lunch, and their Prosciutto Crudo pizza embodies that effortless Italian approach to dining.

Delicate slices of prosciutto, earthy mushrooms, peppery rocket and shaved parmesan sit atop a light, airy base that feels indulgent without ever becoming heavy.

Balanced, refined and quietly luxurious, it’s a pizza made for sharing alongside a good bottle of wine and a table that lingers long after lunch should have ended.

Part of the fabric of Parnell dining for years, Non Solo Pizza remains one of Auckland’s most enduring Italian institutions — lively, elegant and always humming with energy.

HELLO CHICAGO

Hero Pizza: The Loop

Not all pizza is delicate — and Hello Chicago proudly leans the other way. Home to some of the cheesiest, deepest pizzas in Auckland, this Parnell favourite specialises in authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza: thick buttery crusts, rich tomato sauce, layers of molten cheese and unapologetically hearty fillings. Their standout, The Loop, delivers everything deep dish lovers crave. Bubbling cheese, rich sauce and golden crust combine into something nostalgic, indulgent and wildly satisfying.

Where many pizzas are light and restrained, Hello Chicago is gloriously excessive — and that’s exactly the point.

NAPOLI CONTEMPORANEA

Hero Pizza: Bronte

Award-winning Napoli Contemporanea brings true Neapolitan craftsmanship to Parnell. Recently recognised by the internationally renowned 50 Top Pizza guide as one of the Top 50 Pizzerias in Asia-Pacific, the restaurant has quickly built a reputation for exceptional dough, premium Italian ingredients and uncompromising authenticity.

One standout is the Bronte — a beautifully balanced combination of creamy stracciatella, pistachio pesto, mortadella and mozzarella atop their signature light, airy crust. Fired in traditional Neapolitan style, every pizza emerges blistered, delicate and deeply flavourful.

The atmosphere mirrors the food: warm, energetic and unmistakably Italian. One step inside and Parnell suddenly feels a little closer to Napoli.

GINDULGENCE

Raising a Glass to New Zealand’s Craft Spirit Revolution

Since 2018, Gindulgence has grown from a simple idea into one of New Zealand’s most celebrated boutique spirits festivals. Created to showcase the remarkable talent of local distillers, the event has become a gathering place for spirit lovers, industry pioneers, and curious newcomers eager to explore the world of craft gin and beyond. Today, Gindulgence hosts events across multiple centres throughout New Zealand, bringing together communities through a shared appreciation for exceptional spirits and memorable experiences.

At its heart, Gindulgence is about discovery. Visitors have the opportunity to sample an impressive range of products from passionate distillers who pour creativity, craftsmanship, and local character into every bottle. While gin remains the festival’s foundation, evolving tastes have seen the event expand to include rum, whisky, vodka, liqueurs, and other premium spirits, creating an experience that appeals to a wide audience of enthusiasts.

What makes Gindulgence unique is its focus on connection. Festival-goers can meet the makers behind their favourite brands, learn about the botanicals and techniques that shape each spirit, and hear the stories that inspire every creation. It is an environment where producers and consumers come together, celebrating innovation while supporting New Zealand’s thriving craft distilling industry. Beyond the tasting experiences, Gindulgence offers live entertainment, food, education, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages exploration and conversation.

Whether attendees are seasoned gin connoisseurs or simply looking for a unique day out, the festival provides an engaging journey through the diverse flavours and personalities that define modern craft spirits.

More than a festival, Gindulgence is a celebration of New Zealand’s creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and passion for quality. With every event, it continues to champion local distillers, inspire new discoveries, and bring people together to enjoy the very best of the country’s growing spirits culture.

gindulgence.co.nz

THE ULTIMATE CENTREPIECE

Founder

Makenzie Smith is a self-confessed celebration enthusiast who believes every great event deserves a moment people remember.

Through Champagne Towers NZ, she creates unforgettable experiences for weddings, corporate events, award evenings and celebrations across New Zealand.

For Makenzie, it's never just about the champagne. There's a reason champagne towers have stood the test of time. They turn a simple toast into a moment. It's about creating something guests gather around, photograph, talk about on the way home, and remember long after the event is over.

Because every great celebration deserves a moment worth celebrating.

champagnetowers.co.nz

A Shorter Route To Tuscany

If Tuscany isn’t on the calendar this year, there are other ways to arrive. Join En Primeur, the wine club at Poderi Crisci, and go in the draw to win a weekend for two that captures the essence of Tuscany - without the long haul.

Your escape includes:

- Return ferry travel with Island Direct

- A long, leisurely Italian lunch with matched wines

- A private tour of the vineyard

- One night at Fleetwood Boutique Accommodation, with breakfast

- A chilled bottle of Poderi Crisci Zefiro on arrival.

Long tables. Slow afternoons. Excellent wine.

Membership is $1,000 per annum, offering priority access to limited releases, preferred pricing, and a closer connection to the estate.

We look forward to welcoming you. Join En Primeur before 31st September 2026 to enter. Winner drawn 4th October 2026. T&Cs apply.

Scan to be in to win the weekend!

An Evening Of Opera at Poderi Crisci

We invite you to join us for our annual evening of food, wine, and opera in the estate wine cellar. An intimate winter gathering in the estate wine cellar, where guests are seated at a single long table. A programme of Italian arias is performed by acclaimed tenor Simon O'Neill and Ben Makisi, accompanied by Dr Greg Neil on piano.

Enjoy a spectacular double-tenor evening featuring many beloved opera duets and timeless favourites from the Italian repertoire unfolding throughout a multi-course degustation dinner prepared from Maestro Antonio Crisci and Poderi’s new Head Chef Graeme Dick.

Long tables. Winter light. Music and wine in close company.

Saturday 8th August 2026

En Primeur Members - $350pp (up to 2 tickets per member) Non - members - $375pp Tickets are strictly limited and early booking is strongly recommended.

info@podericrisci.co.nz

DESIGNING JOY

Six Thoughtful Ways to Make Any Home Feel Luxurious and Joyful - by Sabby Jay

The most luxurious homes aren’t always the most expensive. They’re the ones that feel intentional, comfortable, and ready to welcome the people you love. From Sabby Jey, creator of the viral Boujee on a Budget series, these practical tips draw on personal experience, alongside ideas from hygge and KonMari.

1. Intergenerational Living and Hosting

When choosing or setting up a home, think beyond yourself. Consider guest access, parking, and flexible spaces for living, working, and hosting. A well-planned layout creates ease for both everyday living and entertaining.

2. Embrace Hygge

Inspired by Hygge: The Danish Way of Living, focus on comfort and calm. Layer your space with warm lighting, soft textures, and cosy elements like throws, cushions, and candles. The goal is simple: create a home that feels good to be in.

3. Define Your Vision

Before styling, map it out. Measure your rooms, list what you need, and build a vision board using Pinterest or AI tools. Start with a favourite colour as your base, then keep larger pieces neutral. This creates a cohesive, elevated look without overcomplicating things.

4. Apply the KonMari Method

The principles from The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up encourage you to keep only what sparks joy. Regularly declutter, reassess your space, and move pieces around to improve flow and function.

5. Source Sustainably

Luxury doesn’t mean brand new. Look for second-hand pieces made from quality materials like wood, brass, or marble. Platforms like Marketplace or Trade Me often hide incredible finds. With a little effort, even imperfect items can be restored beautifully.

6. Prioritise Function and Comfort

A truly luxurious home works for you. Think organised storage, efficient layouts, and tools that make daily life easier. Ergonomics matter too, comfortable seating, supportive work setups, and thoughtful details elevate how you live. A beautiful home doesn’t happen overnight. Start with intention, choose what brings you joy, and build from there.

THE LINEN STORE

The Linen Store, a much-loved Parnell destination is full of beautiful homewares. Discover beautiful bed linen, luxurious pillows, soft towels, cosy throws, stylish rugs and more. Whether you're refreshing a room or styling your entire home, you'll find quality pieces you'll love.

Bring comfort, style and luxury into your home at 287 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland

thelinenstore.nz

Bathroom at Coronet Ridge Resort  | coronetridge.co.nz

A LEGACY IN COOKWARE

Celebrating 80 Years of Michael Joyce

In an age of fast consumption and disposable living, few brands can claim a legacy built on longevity, craftsmanship and purpose. For Michael Joyce, now celebrating 80 years, that legacy is not only intact, it’s quietly thriving.

Founded in 1946 by Matt Joyce’s grandfather, the business began with a simple but enduring mission: to bring high-quality porcelain into New Zealand homes pieces designed to last, to be used daily, and to stand the test of time. Nearly eight decades on, that philosophy remains unchanged. “My grandfather believed in supplying something better,” Matt Joyce reflects. “Not just beautiful,butdurablesomethingthatwouldn’tendupinlandfill afterafewyears.Thatthinkingstillguideseverythingwedo.”

Today, as the third generation continues the journey, Michael Joyce stands as a rare example of consistency in a rapidly changing world. While trends have come and gone, the brand has held firm to its belief in quality over quantity, championing products that serve both the home cook and the professional kitchen with equal reliability.

A key chapter in this story lies in a unique partnership that bridges cultures and generations. The Hua Kang legacy, dating back to 1958 in China, began with the establishment of the country’s first pharmaceutical-grade glass laboratory, pioneering techniques for clean, safe production “forthehealthofthepeople.” Over time, those same principles, precision, purity and innovation shifted from glass into porcelain, setting new benchmarks in fine bone China and clay dinnerware.

The meeting of these two families gave rise to Kiln Collective, a collaboration grounded in shared values and a deep respect for material and method. It’s a union that blends New Zealand sensibility with centuries-old Chinese expertise resulting in dinnerware that is as functional as it is refined. At its core, this is a story about more than plates and bowls. It’s about the quiet importance of things made well. The balance of minerals, the intensity of the kiln, the care taken in every stage of the process, these are details that may go unseen, but never unfelt in daily use.

“We’renotinterestedinshortcuts,” says Joyce. “ Thisisaboutdoing thingsproperly,thewaytheywereintended.”

Eighty years on, that commitment feels more relevant than ever. In a world leaning towards sustainability and mindful consumption, Michael Joyce’s legacy serves as a reminder: true quality isn’t just about how something looks it’s about how long it lasts, and the story it carries with it.

michaeljoyce.co.nz

KATIE BROWN

Shaping Light, Colour and Community Through Glass

From her studio in Whanganui, New Zealand, glass artist Katie Brown has built a reputation for her refined approach to hot glass, creating works celebrated for their intricate detail, flowing linework and strong sense of design. Through a practice grounded in craftsmanship, Brown captures fleeting moments of movement and pattern, transforming molten glass into pieces that feel both sculptural and functional.

Brown’s creative journey began early, encouraged by her mother, Mandy Brown, an artist whose unwavering support helped shape Katie’s creative outlook. Growing up, creativity was a constant presence, and Katie moved from one project to another, always making, experimenting and exploring. Through these early experiences, she learnt not only how to create with her hands, but also how to turn imagination, persistence and craftsmanship into opportunity.

“Mum always encouraged me to keep going,” Brown reflects. “Therewasalwaysanothercreativeideaorproject.”

It was Mandy who introduced Katie to hot glass in 1996, a defining moment that sparked an immediate connection with the medium. At the time, Whanganui offered New Zealand’s only specialist programme in glassmaking through Whanganui Polytechnic, during a period when the city’s arts scene was thriving. Brown quickly realised she had found the material through which she could truly express herself. The immediacy of molten glass, the challenge of timing and precision, and the endless possibilities of colour and form drew her in completely.

Following her studies, Brown travelled internationally, learning from master glassmakers in England and the United States and expanding her technical knowledge while refining her creative voice. Returning home to Whanganui, she established a studio alongside the late Lyndsay Patterson and Karen Ellett, co-founding Chronicle Glass, a venture that became a significant part of the city’s contemporary arts landscape.

Chronicle Glass operated successfully for sixteen years before being sold to the Whanganui District Council. Brown remains deeply proud of what the studio achieved and the role it continues to play within the region. Today, visitors travel from around New Zealand to witness the ancient process of hot glass making and experience the beauty and craftsmanship of works created in the studio.

For the past six years, Brown’s latest venture, Katie Brown & Co, has added to Whanganui’s creative energy. Situated within the city’s historic quarter, the beautifully curated gallery and retail space showcases blown glass, lighting, furniture, printmaking and engraving while championing both established and emerging artists.

Brown’s current work embraces colour, movement and intricate pattern, increasingly expressed through bespoke lighting design and large-scale commissions. Collaborating with interior designers, architects and collectors has become an exciting focus, allowing her work to move beyond traditional objects and into immersive architectural settings. Her lighting pieces are often designed to respond to a space - balancing atmosphere, function and sculptural beauty while reflecting her signature approach to the medium.

Working across residential and commercial interiors, Brown enjoys the challenge of creating custom works that become part of a building’s identity. Whether suspended lighting installations, statement feature pieces or carefully considered functional objects, each commission offers an opportunity to explore how glass interacts with light, movement and everyday life.

“I’mreallyenjoyingtheprojectsI’mworkingonwithinteriordesigners and architects,” Brown says. “Lightingandlarge-scalecommissionsare what I love to do.”

katiebrownglass.co.nz

Mosaic Tulip Seen

Mosaic Tulip Seen holds the tulip between recognition and restraint. Red and green tesserae-like fragments expose the discipline beneath the image, turning beauty into a cultivated structure rather than a decorative bloom.

Mosaic Tulip Seen, work no. 1, 2025, acrylic film on panel, 30 × 25 cm.

Studio Desk With Tools

In Horan’s studio, cutting tools, fragments of film, notes, and tests form a working atmosphere of research, craft, and exact placement.

FROM TESSERAE TO ATMOSPHERE

THE SILENT ISLE: A MOSAIC WINTER GARDEN TREATS THE GARDEN AS AN ECOSYSTEM OF LIGHT, DISCIPLINE, MEMORY, AND RENEWAL - BUILT PATIENTLY, BEFORE SPRING ARRIVES.

- By Vanessa Bennett

There are works that announce themselves immediately, and there are works that ask more of the eye. Jay Horan’s latest surfaces belong decisively to the second kind. At first glance they appear composed, measured, almost restrained. Then the looking slows. Tiny decisions reveal themselves. Rhythm emerges. Light catches. What seemed still becomes quietly active.

“What seemed still becomes quietly active.”

In conversation with Horan, The Silent Isle: A Mosaic Winter Garden presents three featured works - MosaicTulipSeen,LaúdRevivere,and Clusius Hortus Botanicus - built unit by unit from hand-cut acrylic film set as mosaic on acrylic panel, allowing tesserae-like fragments to act

as both image and interval. Rather than treating the winter garden as decoration or romantic symbol, Horan approaches it as a carefully engineered enclosure, a place where fragile life survives through discipline, protection, and cultivated care during dormant seasons.

Together, these featured works frame renewal as a practised act, built patiently, before spring arrives.

In MosaicTulipSeen, the tulip is held between recognition and restraint. Built from red and green fragments on a pale ground, the flower remains legible while its structure stays exposed. The intervals between each unit become part of the image itself, part seam, part vein, part pause. Beauty here is inseparable from discipline.

Laúd Revivere

Laúd Revivere centres on a stringless lute, where sound is withheld but rhythm returns through visual cadence.

Laúd Revivere, work no. 2, 2026, acrylic film on panel, 30 × 25 cm.

Laúd Revivere moves into a quieter register. The upright lute is stringless, withheld from performance, yet still carrying the memory of sound. Its red neck and amber body are built from measured fragments, turning the instrument into both object and excavation, an ancient form revived through proportion, repetition, and rhythm rather than literal music.

Placed alongside MosaicTulip Seen, the work suggests a shared condition of return: one form returns as bloom, the other as resonance. The absent strings return through visual cadence instead of sound.

“The absent strings return through visual cadence instead of sound.”

Clusius Hortus Botanicus

In Clusius Hortus Botanicus, a gridded garden-plan is held inside a circular, lens-like aperture, turning botanical order into map and instrument of seeing.

Clusius Hortus Botanicus, work no. 3, 2026, acrylic film on panel, 30 cm (diam.).

Thetulip and the lute both return to the garden, one as cultivation, the other as silent rhythm. In Clusius Hortus Botanicus, Horan extends the series into mapping, optics, and systems. Drawing from the late-sixteenth-century Hortus Botanicus in Leiden and the classification methods of botanist Carolus Clusius, a square garden plan, parallel green rows, alternately turned, is held inside the work’s circular, lens-like aperture. The garden becomes cultivated ground, map, and instrument of seeing, asking how knowledge is organised, preserved, and where it begins to fray at the edge.

These relationships between image, sound, architecture, and language are central to Horan’s wider practice. In DossiersofSolaceTales,his storytelling and spoken-word practice gives form to

Acloseview of Horan’s hand at work reveals the surface’s real logic: repetition, pressure, light, and the slow accumulation of small decisions.

Horan describes the studio as an evolving atmosphere rather than a fixed workspace, where each unit is treated as a decision about edge, pressure, light, and relation. Earlier works often emerged from black grounds, where light appeared slowly from darkness. In The Silent Isle, the pale ground resembles paper, glazing, maps, or garden beds, exposing rather than concealing the structure beneath. Every decision becomes visible.

“Every decision becomes visible.”

This is where the tesserae give way to atmosphere. Horan’s works belong naturally within private residences, libraries, hotel suites, foyers, or commissioned spaces because they ask something subtle of their environment: light, distance, movement, and return. They do not behave like conventional pictures. Instead, they operate somewhere between painting, mosaic, relief, and object, surfaces

a surrealist metamorphosis, passing through voice, typography, and image before returning to the wall as vivid material order.

While the studio remains the place where the surfaces are slowly assembled, the enquiry often begins elsewhere - in gardens, cities, deserts, archaeological sites, and journeys that sharpen Horan’s sensitivity to structure, weather, light, memory, and hidden systems.

A later enquiry begins to move outward from The Silent Isle, from the enclosed logic of the garden toward the open systems of the Nordic seas: navigation, tides, horizons, and oceanic perception. The continuity remains unchanged: story as vessel, surface as map, and meaning assembled patiently through fragments.

that first attract attention quietly, then deepen over time through repeated viewing.

Ultimately, Horan’s achievement resides in creating works that balance silence with resonance, ornament with endurance, and beauty with restraint. Each surface feels cultivated rather than imposed, an ordered system still open at its edges, inviting the viewer to return and discover it again.

jayhoran.art

BEAUTY WITH SOUL

The New Language of Ethical Luxury

Lyzadie Renault, founder and creative director of LyZadie Design Studio, talks about Beauty With Soul, ethical luxury, and why the future of design must carry story, craft, wellness and meaning.

For a long time, luxury was understood as something rare, expensive and beautiful. It was polished, exclusive and admired. But luxury is changing. Today, true luxury is not only about how something looks. It is about what it carries: the story behind it, the hands that made it, the materials it honours, and the feeling it brings into a room.

LyZadie was created from a love of beauty and a deeper question: can furniture, lighting, rugs and objects be both extraordinary and conscious? Can design feel sculptural and luxurious, while still caring about people, materials, waste, craft, culture and the earth? For us, ethical luxury is not a trend. It has been part of our story from the beginning. A beautiful object should not come at the cost of the land, the maker or the future. True luxury should hold responsibility inside it. That does not make it less luxurious. It makes it more luxurious.

When something is made slowly, thoughtfully and with meaning, it carries a different energy. You feel it in the weight of a table, the curve of a credenza, the softness of wool, the carving of timber, and the quiet presence of a piece made to live with you for years.

LyZadie is not just about furniture. It is about creating pieces with soul. Our work sits between art, design, culture and storytelling. A dining table is where families gather and life is witnessed. A rug can hold emotion. A vase can become a small sculpture in daily life. A credenza can hold craft, memory and strength.

This belief is seen in the LETSWEAVE Collection, which began with a meeting between Lyzadie Renault and artist Sheree Willman in Wellington. They connected through their shared admiration for Tukutuku panels, woven panels traditionally found in Māori meeting houses. Sheree’s work explored tāniko patterns, a Māori form of whatu, or twining, used in the borders of kākahu cloaks and kete whakairo patterned bags. Lyzadie was immediately captivated.

From this connection, LETSWEAVE was born. Handcrafted by local makers from reclaimed Kauri and Rimu wood sourced from the construction industry, the award-winning collection celebrates culture, pattern, craft, connection and the beauty of giving materials a second life.

FLOWKINTSUGI is inspired by the braided rivers of the South Island. These rivers are wild, layered and constantly moving, splitting and joining across the land like natural drawings: powerful, fragile, imperfect and alive.

Handcrafted by local makers from 50,000 year old Swamp Kauri, FLOWKINTSUGI carries an extraordinary sense of time. It speaks to repair and beauty in imperfection, inspired by the spirit of kintsugi. It is about flow, memory, land and transformation.

These collections are part of the LyZadie voice. We are not interested in empty luxury. We are interested in beauty with depth, ethics, emotion and story.

Giving back matters. When we work with local makers, reclaimed materials, ethical production and pieces designed to last, we support craft, reduce waste, honour natural materials and make pieces that belong to a longer story, not a short trend.

The luxury audience today does not simply want more things. They want better things. They want rarity, authenticity, meaning and spaces that feel calm, grounded, intelligent and alive.

This is where the wellness of design becomes important. Light, texture, colour, proportion, natural materials and art can change the energy of a space and the way we feel inside it. A beautiful room can soften us, calm us, lift us and make us feel more connected.

The BLACKTREEFERN Credenza and BLACKTREEFERN Dining Table carry strength, nature and sculptural presence. The LIQUIDEMBRACE Rugs bring emotion, softness and warmth. The SLEEVE Vases bring the LyZadie language into everyday beauty.

For LyZadie, beauty is emotional, ethical, cultural and sensory. It is the feeling of walking into a room and knowing that everything has been considered. LyZadie creates through Collection by Design, Studio by Design and Design Series.

Three design worlds. One brand. One vision. To create beauty with meaning, soul and strong design at every scale. Because the future of luxury is warm, crafted, emotional, intelligent, responsible and alive.

And for us, that is the most beautiful kind of luxury.

lyzadiedesignstudio.com

Instagram: @lyzadie

@lyzadierenault

Facebook: @lyzadiedesignstudio

LinkedIn: @lyzadiedesignstudio

@lyzadierenault

MODERNISTA

Modernista is a lovingly curated collection of original Mid Century Modern and contemporary furniture sourced direct from Scandinavia.

Curator, Justine McKay credits her love of the simple and artful elegance of the mid-century modern aesthetic, to a childhood spent in Sweden and a passion for collecting beautiful design pieces. Modernista is a reflection of Justine’s desire to offer unique pieces and breathe new life into these timeless designs. After a career in fashion, music and film in New York Justine returned to NZ in the early 2000’s to start a boutique event and sponsorship agency with her husband and business partner Andy.

Her passion for European midcentury design is rooted in her love for classic shapes and styles where quality construction and materials elevate great design into the realms of art. “Weliveinsuch a‘throw-away’worldandthereisa tendencytobuywhat’sinfashion at the moment” says Justine.

“Mid-Century design endures the test of time & I love that manyofmypiecesare50+years old and will give pleasure to peopleforanother50years”. Modernista co-labs with artists, currently working with Daniel Blanshard whose metallic forms of his Cosmic Botanicals collection, set off the hard to find original examples of iconic Scandinavian designs.

Justine has built a network of trusted sources in Europe and Scandinavia that enable her to find pieces that you simply can’t get in New Zealand. She has built a great relationship with a highly respected shipper that cares for her pieces as much as she does, and has a team of restorers in NZ who, where necessary, can sympathetically revive items requiring a little ‘T.L.C.’

“Modernista is my passion project and a reflection of how I like to live: Surrounded by timeless,beautifulpiecesthatto my mind are living, functional works of art.”

modernistanz.co.nz

@modernista.nz

EYE GARDENING

PLANTING SUGGESTIONS MAY TO NOVEMBER

May-August (Winter):

Garlic – Plant shortest day (Jun 21) and harvest longest day (Dec.21) or when outer leaves brown and droop. Plant cloves (organic is best) roots down 5-10cm deep. Will sprout within 7-21 days. Garlic hates weeds so weed regularly. As summer begins to build, water well. Will grow in pots.

Broccoli – Plant June to August in a sheltered sunny position 50-60cm apart where you haven’t grown brassicas before or pests may still be in the soil. Prefers temperatures under 22° or may bolt. Harvest 12-14 weeks when heads are still tight – blooming florets can taste bitter.

Cabbage – Plant in full sun in May for winter harvest, or in September for summer harvest 50-60cm apart. Summer cabbages struggle in hot sun so consider afternoon shade. 12-20 weeks to mature. Harvest when the head is tight and full.

Kale – Plant late autumn/early winter 40-70cm apart and harvest continually from about 2 months on. Will grow year round but does better in cooler conditions. Will grow in pots. Kale chips…Mmmmm!

August–September (early spring):

Lettuce – Can be planted almost throughout the year depending on the variety. Harvesting can usually begin between 6-10 weeks. Pick the outer leaves so it can keep growing for longer. Prefer full sun but need afternoon shade at the height of summer. Water hungry so don’t allow them to dry out. Happy in pots.

Spinach – Plant 10cm apart in a position where it gets afternoon shade in summer or it can taste bitter. Prefers cooler conditions but will grow year round depending on variety. NZ Spinach will tolerate light frost. Harvest by the leaf and keep it growing, or take the whole plant from 8-10 weeks. Does okay in pots.

Silverbeet – Plant 40cm apart in well-drained, well-fertilised/composted soil in a sunny, sheltered position, and harvest leaves from 7-9 weeks. Silverbeet is a sun-lover and will keep producing year round in good conditions. The plant flops in dry conditions, so water often. Thrives in pots.

Peas – Plant 10cm apart in sunny, well-fed soils. Provide stakes or trellis so they can climb. Harvesting can begin at 10-13 weeks. Pick pods regularly because peas can be floury if they stay on the plant too long. The more you pick the more the plant produces. Happy in pots.

Carrots – Plant in loose, well-drained soils (at least 25cm depth if growing in pots). Carrots don’t take to being transplanted so plant seed directly to soil 2cm deep and 15cm apart. They need moisture to germinate. Harvest once they have attained 1cm diameter from 10-14 weeks. Mature when you can see the top of the root.

October-November (mid to late spring):

Tomatoes – Plant deeply in a sunny, well-drained position in rich soil 50cm apart. Night temperatures must be at least 13°. Tomatoes were originally a desert plant so be sparing with the water or they will attract disease. Pinch the laterals off and bottom leaves as they flag and harvest when they are ripe. Harvesting keeps more growing. Do very well in pots.

Courgettes (zucchini) – Plant 70cm apart in full sun and rich soil. Keep them well watered. Zucchinis produce prolifically and turn into marrows almost overnight so keep an eye on them and harvest often from six to eight weeks. Will grow in pots – allow 40 litres of soil per plant.

Capsicum (peppers) – Plant in a sunny, sheltered position in fertile soil 40-50cm apart and harvest from around 10-12 weeks. Stake plants as the fruit becomes weighty. All capsicums start green and can be eaten that way, or ripen to colour for good Vitamin C content. Thrives in pots minimum 25cm deep.

Green Beans – Plant seeds directly 15cm apart into soil or deep pots in a sunny sheltered position. Dwarf beans harvest at 9-10 weeks and keep producing for several weeks. Continue planting seeds every 2-3 weeks for a long harvest. Climbing beans produce more fruit but require staking and harvest from 10-12 weeks.

Garden to Gut Fresh Health

Growing your own fruit and vegetables is becoming a virtual necessity, with increasing levels of adulteration to both packaged and fresh foods. In combination with rising food prices, and the requirement for more unadulterated food, households across the board are returning to old-fashioned home gardens, whether they’re in the ground or in pots. It’s a satisfying activity which gives us better control over what goes into our bodies. It rests our minds, gives us contact with the earth, a bit of exercise, and wholesome food at the same time. What’s not to love? Ten minutes here and there gets a plot dug over a week and prepared for seedlings. Gardening, unlike social media, does not demand instant attention, and you can deliver the attention it does require in small regular snippets.

In temperate New Zealand our growing conditions accommodate a wide variety of produce. A range of sturdy grow-houses is available for colder climates, and there are many ways to protect your lovely, growing goodies from wind and frost. A small garden, pots on a balcony, or a raised-bed can yield a surprisingly large crop of fresh herbs and vegetables which deliver noticeable relief to your food bill, and increase the nutritional value of the food your body has to process.

Seasons and Snails

Planting between June and November sets you up for a productive spring and summer harvest. After the Winter Solstice in June daylight hours begin to increase, and plants establish themselves more quickly. Feeding your garden – organic compost is excellent, or use commercial natural or organic fertilisers.

Opt to grow, or purchase organic or spray-free seedlings. Although planting seed directly works, an established seedling is less likely to be taken by a slug before it can leaf. Everyone has their views on pest management but no-one wants to find pesticides hiding in the nooks and crannies of the vegetable they are about to eat. Try an old can with snail bait lying in the garden. The slugs will go for it and you don’t get any of it contaminating your soil. Slugs and snails also fancy a beer, so you can put a couple of inches in a glass jar submerged to ground level in your plot and they’ll happily get drunk and forget to breathe. Refresh the bait every few days. Brassicas attract white butterflies which can be put off by mixing the crop with plantings of marigolds, or bird attractants. Organic sprays are also available for this problem.

EYE NEWS

Ninja Crispi® Pro 6-in-1

Countertop Glass Air Fryer

Designed to make everything from quick weeknight dinners to entertaining easier, the Ninja Crispi® Pro combines powerful air frying performance with sleek modular glassware designed to move seamlessly from cooking, to serving, to storing leftovers. Featuring six customisable cooking functions and multiple glassware sizes, it delivers elevated versatility for modern kitchens in four new colours. Its thermal shock resistant glassware lets you cook with confidence while reducing the need for extra dishes and containers, making meal prep and clean up easier than ever. ninjakitchen.co.nz

The Hidden Hygiene Problem

Reusable drink bottles are an everyday essential, but experts warn poorly designed bottles can harbour bacteria and mould if not cleaned properly. Studies show unwashed bottles can contain millions of bacteria due to moisture and hard to reach crevices. New Zealand brand Mode & Opal was created to solve the problem. Founder Burger, a busy mum, brought a premium stainless steel bottle to market with a wide opening and minimal parts that makes cleaning simple and effective. “Good design makeshealthyhabitseasier,” she says helping Kiwis stay hydrated without hidden hygiene risks. modeandopal.co.nz

A Fresh Taste of Mediterranean Flavour

Influencer, entrepreneur and all-round inspiring woman Sarah Aram has recently opened Zeta Greek Kitchen & Deli in Onehunga. From authentic Greek souvlaki and flavour-packed salad bowls to delicious sharing plates and slow rotisserie-cooked meats, Zeta is already creating a buzz among food lovers. We can't wait to visit and experience this exciting new dining destination. A true taste of Greece in Auckland, Zeta brings fresh Mediterranean flavours, warm hospitality and a vibrant dining experience to the local food scene. Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Zeta offers a delicious escape to the Greek islands. zetagreekkitchen.co.nz

Shark® PowerLite

Cordless Stick Vacuum & Auto-Empty System

Combining lightweight cordless performance with self-emptying convenience, the Shark® PowerLite is designed to make everyday cleaning simpler and more effortless. Featuring a compact 2.8kg design, up to 40 minutes runtime, a detachable handvac for quick clean-ups, and an Auto-Empty Dock that stores up to 30 days of dust and debris, it delivers reliable low-maintenance cleaning for busy households. Ideal for keeping floors and everyday messes under control with minimal effort. sharkclean.co.nz

Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle

Make Mum’s Day with Cricut! Let mum explore her creativity with Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle, the gift to customise, personalise and organise everything! With everything she needs to start creating right out of the box, the essential bundle lets her make up to 35 projects. Cricut Joy 2 is a smart cutting machine that can cut, draw and score to create a huge range of designs - from custom tees to bespoke cards, stickers and labels, you’re only limited by your imagination! spotlightstores.com

5 ORGANIC GROWING TIPS

Want a thriving organic garden? These five simple tips can make all the difference.

1. Start with Organic Seeds

Success starts at planting time. Choose quality organic seeds from trusted suppliers such as Kings Seeds to give your garden the strongest possible foundation.

2. Feed Your Soil

Healthy soil equals healthy plants. Add compost, worm castings, and organic matter regularly to build nutrient-rich soil that supports strong growth.

3. Harness the Power of Neem

Used for centuries, neem is a natural gardener's best friend. Neem-based products can help manage pests while supporting a healthy garden ecosystem.

4. Mulch and Water Smart

A layer of mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. Water deeply and consistently for stronger roots and healthier plants.

5. Welcome Beneficial Insects Bees, ladybirds, and butterflies are essential garden helpers. Plant flowers that attract pollinators and let nature do some of the hard work.

The secret to organic gardening isn't complicated, start with great seeds, nurture your soil, and work with nature. Your plants will thank you with healthier growth, bigger harvests, and a more beautiful garden.

CIRCA Introduces Two Vibrant New Fragrances Lime & Lemongrass and Blackberry & Plum nz.circa.com.au

From balcony herbs to backyard harvests, more New Zealanders are rediscovering the joy of growing their own.

VEGETABLES FLOWERS HERBS SPROUTS MICROGREENS

Sow your garden. Nurture your wellbeing. Nourish your life.

www.kingsseeds.co.nz

MOSTLY MEN

CORONET RIDGE RESORT

The Ultimate Alpine Retreat

Perchedabove the dramatic contours of Queenstown’s alpine landscape, Coronet Ridge Resort redefines luxury mountain escapes in New Zealand’s adventure capital. This brand-new five-star sanctuary is designed for travellers seeking a seamless blend of relaxation, indulgence, and elevated alpine living, where every detail frames the raw beauty of the Southern Alps.

Following a transformative multi-million-dollar redevelopment, the intimate 41-room resort has quickly established itself as one of Queenstown’s most exciting luxury openings. Nestled above the Shotover River in the exclusive enclave of Arthur’s Point, Coronet Ridge combines the tranquillity of a secluded alpine retreat with the convenience of being just minutes from Queenstown’s vibrant town centre and world-renowned ski fields.

From the moment guests arrive, the resort reveals itself as a sophisticated retreat carved into the landscape. Floor-to-ceiling glass, natural textures, and contemporary design elements mirror the surrounding peaks and valleys, ensuring the scenery is never out of sight. Whether blanketed in winter snow or glowing under a crisp summer sky, Coronet Ridge offers a year-round invitation to slow down and immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur.

At the heart of the resort sits its most exceptional offering: Executive Shotover Suite Spanning an impressive 82 square metres, this statement residence has been crafted for those who appreciate space, privacy, and refined comfort. The suite opens onto an expansive private balcony, where a deep outdoor bathtub overlooks the iconic Shotover River, an experience that captures the essence of Queenstown luxury in a single view.

Inside, a super king-size bed is positioned for uninterrupted alpine vistas, complemented by a warm internal fireplace that transforms the space into a cocoon of comfort on cooler evenings. Carefully curated artworks and handsomely appointed interiors elevate the suite beyond accommodation, creating a residential feel with unmistakable five-star polish.

The ensuite bathroom continues the experience of indulgence, featuring a large glass walk-in shower and a selection of premium amenities, plush robes, and slippers. Thoughtful touches such as a high-end coffee machine, fully stocked mini bar showcasing local New Zealand products, and complimentary Wi-Fi ensure both comfort and convenience are seamlessly integrated. Dining is a destination in itself at Elevation Bar & Restaurant,

where Executive Chef Dominic Dsouza brings international experience and creativity to a menu inspired by the finest seasonal ingredients from Central Otago.

Guests can enjoy gourmet breakfasts, leisurely lunches, après-ski indulgences and elegant evening dining while taking in breathtaking views across the Wakatipu Basin, The Remarkables and the Shotover River below.

Beyond the accommodation, Coronet Ridge offers an exceptional collection of wellness and leisure facilities. The Roman-inspired day spa is designed for complete rejuvenation, complemented by an indoor heated pool, steam room, sauna and outdoor hot tubs. Guests can also enjoy a private cinema, premium fitness facilities and squash court, ensuring every stay balances adventure with relaxation.

Coronet Ridge Resort is a sophisticated alpine sanctuary where world-class hospitality, exceptional dining and breathtaking scenery come together to create one of Queenstown’s most compelling new destinations.

coronetridge.co.nz

Established in 2001, Skykiwi is the most influential Chinese media in New Zealand. We dedicate to provide precise and high quality information to our users. Skykiwi also owns the largest Chinese web forum in New Zealand.

O cially launched in 2009

7,400+ average daily visits to the portal

Skykiwi Mobile App Matrix

345,000 Installations

48,779 Daily User Launches

Skykiwi WeChat Community Matrix

60,000+ followers of our WeChat personal account and 13,000+ users of our WeChat group.

Skykiwi Forum

500,044 Registered Users

10,000+ Daily Posts

17,000+ Avg. Daily Active Users

Skykiwi WeChat Social Media Matrix

Total followers of our WeChat O cial Account reach 669,011.

Skykiwi Red Note Matrix

Over 46,000 subscribers and covers various contents, including current a airs, education, immigration, real estate, investment, shopping guide and entertainment.

Skykiwi Video Channel

Skykiwi’s WeChat O cial Account and WeChat Video Channel reach 380,118 subscribers.

The most popular WeChat video hits 13 million views. 4,020+ YouTube subscribers and our signature video column hit 1.7 million views.

TESLA

The Tesla Model Y perfectly balances intelligent design with surprisingly exhilarating performance. While many people associate electric vehicles with quiet practicality, the Model Y delivers something far more exciting, instant power, exceptional smoothness and a driving experience that feels firmly rooted in the future.

The first thing that surprises most drivers is just how quick the Model Y really is. The acceleration is immediate and seamless, gliding effortlessly forward with remarkable speed and responsiveness. There is no engine noise, no gear changes and no delay, just instant torque that makes merging onto motorways and navigating city traffic feel smooth, easy and unexpectedly fun. Despite its family-friendly SUV design, the Model Y carries a sporty confidence that transforms everyday driving into something genuinely enjoyable.

One of the greatest benefits, however, is the incredible savings on fuel. Charging costs are dramatically lower than traditional petrol vehicles, making the Model Y not only environmentally conscious but also financially smart. With fuel prices continuing to fluctuate, the ability to drive long distances while spending significantly less on energy becomes one of the car’s most appealing advantages. Combined with lower maintenance requirements due to fewer moving parts, the ownership experience feels refreshingly simple and efficient. Space is another area where the Model Y shines. Tesla has reimagined storage in a way that feels incredibly practical for modern lifestyles. Alongside the generous rear trunk, the vehicle also includes a front trunk commonly known as a “frunk” offering additional space perfect for luggage, shopping bags, sports gear or charging cables.

The result is a surprisingly spacious interior that comfortably accommodates families, road trips, airport runs and busy everyday life. Fold-flat seating and clever design details only add to the versatility.

Inside, the cabin embraces minimalism in the most luxurious way. Clean lines, expansive glass and the signature oversized touchscreen create an uncluttered environment that immediately feels calm and modern. Almost every feature is controlled through Tesla’s advanced technology system, from navigation and entertainment to climate control and vehicle settings. The interface is intuitive, sleek and constantly evolving through over-the-air software updates that continue improving the car long after purchase.

Tesla’s advanced safety and driver-assist technology also adds another level of confidence behind the wheel. Features such as Autopilot assistance, intelligent navigation, multiple cameras and real-time traffic awareness create a driving experience that feels both innovative and reassuring.

What ultimately makes the Tesla Model Y so compelling is its ability to combine mindfulness with power. It is environmentally conscious without sacrificing performance, practical without feeling boring and technologically advanced without becoming overwhelming. Quiet, quick and exceptionally smart, the Model Y represents a new era of motoring where luxury, sustainability and excitement coexist effortlessly.

tesla.com/en_nz

RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

The drive from Auckland to Northland and back in the Range Rover Evoque highlights exactly what the model is built for: compact luxury, road confidence, and long-distance comfort in a mid-size SUV package.

The Evoque sits in the compact premium SUV segment, typically powered in New Zealand by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol or mild-hybrid Ingenium engine, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. This setup provides a balance of efficiency and torque, making it well suited to both motorway cruising and winding regional roads.

Leaving Auckland, the Evoque’s adaptive dynamics system helps maintain stability at highway speeds, while its light steering and tight turning radius make early urban driving and motorway merging straightforward. As speeds increase on State Highway 1, the cabin remains well insulated, with road and wind noise kept to a minimum thanks to refined chassis tuning and acoustic glazing in higher trims.

Heading into Northland, where roads become more undulating and occasionally narrow, the Evoque’s Terrain Response system (on selected models) allows drivers to adjust traction settings for changing surfaces. While most of the route is sealed highway, the system adds confidence on wet or uneven patches common in the region.

Fuel consumption typically sits in the mid-7 to 9 litres per 100 km range depending on driving style, giving a practical real-world range suitable for a return trip without frequent refuelling stops.

Inside, the cabin features a dual touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and emergency braking, particularly useful on long stretches of consistent highway driving.

The return leg to Auckland showcases the Evoque’s comfort bias: supportive seating, stable highway performance, and consistent throttle response make extended driving manageable without fatigue.

Overall, the Evoque performs as intended an urban luxury SUV capable of handling regional New Zealand roads with composure, efficiency, and modern driving technology.

landrover.co.nz

MUSTANG GT

There are some cars you drive, and then there are cars you feel. The Ford Mustang GT belongs firmly in the second category. Picking up the Mustang GT in Auckland and heading north was never going to be simply about getting from one destination to another, it became an experience, a mood, and ultimately one of the most enjoyable road trips imaginable. From the very first moment behind the wheel, the Mustang GT delivers exactly what you hope it will.

The low rumble of the V8 engine instantly announces its presence with confidence and attitude. It is impossible not to smile when pressing the ignition button and hearing that unmistakable growl come to life. In a world increasingly dominated by silent electric vehicles and sensible SUVs, the Mustang GT unapologetically celebrates the pure joy of driving.

Leaving Auckland behind and heading north, the car immediately felt at home on New Zealand roads. Whether cruising through motorway stretches or winding through the rolling hills and coastal roads of Northland, the Mustang GT handled beautifully. There is a surprising smoothness to the drive that balances perfectly with its raw power.

It feels planted, responsive and incredibly fun, without ever becoming uncomfortable for long-distance touring. Of course, people talk about fuel consumption when it comes to V8 muscle cars, and yes, the Mustang GT enjoys its petrol. But somehow, once you are driving it, none of that really matters.

The experience outweighs the fuel stops entirely. Every acceleration onto an open stretch of road, every tunnel echoing with the sound of the engine, every glance from passing drivers or people at petrol stations reminds you why cars like this still matter. They create emotion. They create excitement. They make ordinary journeys unforgettable.

Driving north through New Zealand’s stunning landscapes only amplified the experience. The scenery felt cinematic from behind the wheel, green farmland rolling endlessly beside the highway, glimpses of ocean appearing around bends, tiny townships passing slowly by as the Mustang effortlessly cruised through them. The car somehow transforms even simple moments into something memorable. A coffee stop feels cooler arriving in a Mustang GT. Parking at a lookout becomes an event in itself.

People stop to admire it, photograph it and ask questions about it. It has a presence everywhere it goes. What surprises many people about the Mustang GT, however, is how refined it also feels. Beyond the aggressive styling and iconic muscle-car image, the interior is modern, comfortable and packed with features that make road-tripping genuinely enjoyable.

The seats are supportive for longer drives, the sound system is exceptional and the cabin feels far more premium than many expect. Technology integrates seamlessly, allowing the car to feel both nostalgic and contemporary at the same time.

Then there are the little bonus benefits that come with driving a car like this, the sense of occasion every time you walk back towards it in a car park, the way strangers smile at traffic lights, the excitement passengers feel before even getting inside. The Mustang GT creates connection. It sparks conversation and nostalgia.

For some, it brings back memories of classic American muscle cars. For others, it represents freedom, adventure and a youthful sense of fun. And perhaps that is what makes the Mustang GT so special. It is not trying to be practical or restrained. It is designed entirely around experience and emotion. It reminds drivers that cars can still be exciting, loud, stylish and joyful. In today’s world of careful efficiency and predictable driving experiences, the Mustang GT feels refreshingly rebellious.

By the time the road trip north came to an end, the car had become more than transport. It became part of the adventure itself. The sound of the engine, the comfort of the drive, the power beneath your foot and the smiles it created along the way all combined into something genuinely memorable. The Mustang GT may use more fuel than the average car, but what it gives back is something far more valuable and that is happiness. And honestly, that feels worth every single litre.

ford.co.nz

DENZA B5

The DENZA B5 is a striking entry into the world of premium new energy vehicles, embodying the ethos of luxury and advanced technology that the brand represents. As a subsidiary of the BYD Group, DENZA harnesses cutting-edge battery technology and sustainable innovation to craft vehicles that stand out in both performance and design.

Driving the DENZA B5 is an experience that seamlessly blends comfort with cutting-edge features. The moment you settle into the plush interior, you notice the meticulous attention to detail, the soft-touch materials, elegant finishes, and a layout designed with the driver in mind. The spacious cabin feels inviting, providing an ambience that enhances both relaxation and focus during journeys.

On the road, the B5 excels with its smooth acceleration and responsive handling. Powered by DENZA’s advanced electric drivetrain, it delivers a powerful yet serene driving experience. The instant torque provides a thrilling launch, making city driving a breeze while maintaining stability on winding roads. The quiet operation of the electric motor amplifies the feeling of refinement, allowing for a serene environment that encourages mindful motoring.

Technologically, the DENZA B5 is equipped with a suite of smart features that enhance safety and convenience. The infotainment system is user-friendly, integrating seamlessly with smartphones and offering real-time navigation, music streaming, and vehicle diagnostics. Advanced driver-assistance systems further elevate the driving experience, ensuring that safety remains paramount without sacrificing enjoyment.

In essence, the DENZA B5 represents a harmonious blend of luxury, technology, and sustainability. It not only meets the demands of modern drivers but also encourages a mindful approach to motoring, making it a worthy choice for those seeking an electric vehicle that doesn’t compromise on elegance or performance.

Considering the increasing importance of sustainability in today's automotive landscape, the DENZA B5 is a compelling option for those ready to embrace the future of motoring.

denza.com/nz

TRAVELLING TO AUCKLAND

Auckland is one of those cities where you can go from beaches to vineyards to city dining all in one day. Here are some easy, well-rounded travel tips to make the most of it:

Start with the waterfront. Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter are perfect for a morning walk, coffee, or a long lunch by the water.

For the best views, head up the Sky Tower. If you're feeling brave, you can even do the SkyWalk or SkyJump, but even just the lookout gives you an incredible perspective of the harbour and islands.

If you want a bit of nature without leaving the city, take a ferry to Waiheke Island. It’s known for its vineyards, beaches, and laid-back vibe, perfect for a day trip with wine tastings and long lunches.

Closer to the city, hike up Mount Eden (Maungawhau). It’s an easy walk and gives one of the best panoramic views over Auckland.

For shopping and a bit of local culture, wander down Parnell Road, you’ll find boutiques, great cafes, and some of the city’s best restaurants. It’s especially good in the evening.

If you're into beaches, head to the west coast and check out Piha Beach. It’s wild, dramatic, and very different from the calmer city beaches, just be mindful of the surf.

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TRATTORIA DELMAINE AT CAZADOR RESTAURANT, AUCKLAND

“目前奥克兰最棒的粤菜餐厅！从正宗传统到细腻、清爽而精致的粤菜口味， 这里都超出了我们的期待。作为粤菜爱好者，我们一定会再来光顾！”

Level One, Commercial Bay, CBD, Auckland +64 21 288 8302