Frida Cocina.

Here are the best tacos we’ve found on menus all over town

Whether as a snack or doubled-up for dinner, tacos always go down a treat. From authentic takes to something a little loco, we can’t think of a more delicious meal that fits in only one hand. Forget Taco Tuesdays — try a tasty morsel for every day or the week, and well beyond.

Taco Medic, La Mexicana.

Taco Medic
New to the Ponsonby dining scene (from Queenstown), Taco Medic’s absurdly tasty tacos are healthy yet full of flavour. The Kentuckyman sees Escondido spiced free-range fried chicken combined with traditional tomato salsa, mango, chipotle mayonnaise and coriander. There’s also a 12-hour slow-braised beef brisket flavour and a six-hour slow-braised free-farmed pork belly, various spiced fish tacos, a marinated prawn taco, plus tasty vegetarian and vegan options.

La Mexicana
If you thought you knew what ‘authentic’ Mexican food tasted like, this cosy taco joint in Grey Lynn is showing us a whole different side to our favourite bite-sized morsels — with its speciality fresh corn tortillas made from scratch on site. La Mexicana’s taco fillings include birria, comprising tender, slow-cooked beef cheek; carnitas, a popular confit of pork; pulled chicken in a mild chipotle sauce, and both vegetarian and vegan options for those so-inclined. Having tried most of the menu, we can confirm these tacos are delicious, and their petite size means you can try a variety of flavours without feeling overstuffed, while still leaving satisfied.

Cielito Lindo
This understated Mexican eatery in Henderson has been touted as serving the best Mexican food in Auckland. Cielito Lindo tacos are served on soft and delicate corn tortillas. The lamb option is succulent and juicy, while the nostalgic fried fish taco with nopales (an edible Mexican cactus) has the flavour of jalapeños, without the spice. The tinga (chicken) nachos are cheesy and gloriously guilty.

Frida Cocina
Frida Cocina Mexicana and Tequila Bar is a lively spot at the Viaduct Harbour. Alongside its lip-smacking selection of margaritas and mezcal is an excellent selection of tacos, including the Cochinita with guajillo pulled pork, grilled cheese, pickled onion, pineapple and salsa verde, garnished with coriander; and the De Papas with patatas bravas, salsa asada, sour cream, crispy tortilla strips and pico de gallo.

Mr. Taco, Fishsmith.

Mr. Taco
The moment we bit into one of the tacos from inner-city hole in the wall Mr. Taco – La Taqueria, we considered not sharing any information on its whereabouts so we could keep coming back again and again with less fear of them selling out. But, the selfish impulse quickly passed as we remembered our civic duty to tell you about some of the best, most authentic Mexican food we’ve had in recent memory. The pastor taco, the most popular at night in Mexico (we’re told) comprises ultra-moist pulled pork cooked with achiote paste and a special blend of spices. It’s then topped with a small helping of fresh pineapple, and each taco is served with onion, coriander and salsa of various spice levels.

Mexican Specialities
Mexican Specialties is a hidden gem in Ellerslie for those who wish to experience truly authentic Mexican fare. Their café and shop has a board of special taco options from pork to prawn, which can be served with Mexican rice and salad to make a meal of it. We suggest picking up some pantry goods while you are here, to continue your lucky taco streak.

Fishsmith 
If you have your heart set on fish tacos, Fishsmith in Herne Bay has dedicated its natural resources for a pair of delectable fish tacos. The two flour tortillas are filled with spice-rubbed fish, coleslaw, ponzu mayo, hot sauce and crispy shallots. They’re best enjoyed by the beach.

Taco Loco, Ghost Donkey.

Taco Loco
The Taco Loco food truck was the rolling authority on Mexican cuisine, before setting up a stationary little cantina in Mount Albert. Although Taco Loco has a full menu, the tacos are (unsurprisingly) the most popular. For something different, try the Tacos Dorados, with four crispy rolled and deep-fried tacos with your choice of beef, chicken, or lamb — and topped with house salsa, lettuce, sour cream, feta cheese and radish. Sensational.

Ghost Donkey
Commercial Bay’s mezcal and tequila bar is a lively and vibrant venue that aspires to impart Mexican hospitality to every one of its visitors. On Ghost Donkey’s taco menu we order the Al Pastor, with spiced pork, pineapple salsa and chipotle mayo, and the Chipotle Jackfruit, a vegetarian alternative with papaya slaw and spiced peanuts. The Mexican Fried Chicken, with jalapeño mayo, slaw, red chilli and coriander, is also a must-try.

Loco Bros
Keeping the flavour profiles as traditional as possible, Brody Jenkins and Josh Barlow use their chef-trained cooking techniques to elevate their taco offering. Loco Bros (which can also be found permanently at Street Feast in Titirangi) serves a Carne Asada taco comprising grilled bavette steak, avocado, onion and salsa verde; Escalfada Chicken with poached organic chicken, roasted tomato mole and pickled onion; and, for those after a plant-based option, the Chilli Con Carne is made with vegan chilli, vegan queso and fresh onion.

Food Truck Garage, The Lucky Taco.

Food Truck Garage
On a mission to show that fast food can be good food, the Food Truck Garage at City Works Depot rolls soft tacos from authentic hand-made masa tortillas, which are naturally gluten-free. From spiced chicken, to braised jackfruit and chipotle prawn, layers of new flavours and sauces create one tasty taco mouthful.

Inca
Combining the flamboyance and fire of South American flavours and the careful techniques of Japanese cooking, Nic Watt’s Nikkei-style restaurant Inca is now in both Newmarket and Ponsonby. The Ao Nori taco with tempura prawn, avocado, coriander, tonkatsu, and pickled white ginger is an excellent example of the collision of cuisines, as is the Blue Corn taco with BBQ oyster mushrooms, teriyaki, carrot and pickled onion.

The Lucky Taco
Considered the OG of the moveable taco circuit, this well known Auckland food truck proffers flavours such as the ‘cheeseburger’ taco (asada style beef with queso, pickled red onion, red cabbage and coriander) as well as the classics. If you can’t find them, The Lucky Taco food truck is available to hire for a group, or you can order your own sauces, pickles and taco kits to recreate The Lucky Taco when at home.

Gastronomy

These are the Auckland eateries staying open over the summer holidays, plus we’ve rounded up all of the holiday hospo hours you need to know
Escaping the city for the holidays? We round up the best eateries up and down the country
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best fish and chips in Auckland — and the scenic spots to enjoy them
Eva Chen's Connecticut home features the Camaleonda sofa by B&B Italia available from Matisse and the Split Light rug by The Rug Company available from Design Central.

Create a weekend sanctuary for your youngsters with a lounge designed for play

It’s a joy to see a child’s sense of wonder take flight, and imagination run free. A dedicated kid’s lounge with playful design elements, like the very bounceable Camaleonda by B&B Italia or Ligne Roset’s Togo seating, will give them an indoor space to continue exploring.

Left to right: Volière Demi-Grande pendant by Mathieu Challières for Challières from ECC, Pukka armchair by Yabu Pushelberg from Ligne Roset.

Little Flare table by Marcel Wanders for Magis from ECC.

Left to right: Spinkie teepee from Little Whimsy, Resene Cobalt and Resene Talisman, Stack coffee table by Nathan Yong for Living Divani from Studio Italia.

Mini Togo by Michel Ducaroy from Ligne Roset.

Left to right: Monkey side table by Jaime Hayon for BD Barcelona from Matisse, Noughts Weave Wool rug from Nodi Rugs.

Sign Baby chair by Piergiorgio Cazzaniga for MDF Italia from Matisse.

Design

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Rock Melon, ichmi kimchi over ice.
Chicken Karaage.

Nic Watt’s remarkable Nikkei restaurant, Inca, comes to Ponsonby Central

What do you get when you combine the flamboyance and fire of South American flavours and the careful techniques of Japanese cooking? Nic Watt’s Nikkei-style restaurant Inca has delighted diners with its fresh dishes since opening on the Westfield Newmarket rooftop dining area in late 2019. Now, Watt is evolving this offering and bringing Inca 2.0 to Ponsonby.

Watt says he wasn’t looking to open another restaurant at the moment, but the acclaimed chef and restaurateur fell in love with the new Ponsonby Central location, with high ceilings and natural light, instantly. As part of the Central refresh, Inca looks out its large windows to Richmond Road on the corner, while also having a laneway of outdoor dining with festooned lights. “I knew I wanted this site when I first saw it, the positive energy and karma of the restaurant is infectious,” he says.

Gunpowder roll: Soft shell crab futo maki with takuwan, cucumber, kimchi.

Open this week, Inca Ponsonby is the fourth establishment in Watt’s stable, which includes Masu by Nic Watt and Akarana Eatery in Orakei. Drawing on Watt’s travels to Peru and his love of its “bright and powerful flavours” and the “art of Nikkei cuisine” that he learnt when living in Japan, the menu at Inca is a “beautiful collision”.

While most of the menu will serve iconic Inca dishes, including the Pacifica Ceviche and the Pork al Pastor Tacos, there has been plenty of room for Watt and his team to play.

Along with the starters, tacos and tostadas, tempura, and sashimi and tiradito, a whole new offering is the maki and nigiri section, offering contemporary maki rolls and nigiri with rice. Watt’s favourite is the California Fire maki roll with spiced king crab, avocado and pickled cucumber – it’s a modern take that brings the heat.

 

Clay Baked Sweet Potato; Classico Ceviche.

New to the BBQ section, is an ember roasted black cod with anticucho miso and pickled roast vegetables; and the dry aged beef short rib with yellow pepper miso glaze and spiced cashew nuts. There will also be a ‘let us indulge you’ eight-course degustation on the menu soon.

The fusion focus is on fresh seafood and chargrilled meats, however the menu has plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans, including an organic beetroot ceviche and a wood-fired butternut pumpkin. 

For the other much-frequented menu, there is an extensive drinks list including the usual slaking suspects, as well as cerveza (Peruvian beer), sake, mezcal, tequila, and umeshu. The ever-popular frozen margarita and pisco sours are being poured alongside the new Pandan pisco sour and the smoky, honey Inca of the Bees.

Collaborating with CTRL Space, the interior design of the cavernous, open space is warmed with pink marble and cave-like plaster, colourful woven textile features, banquette seating and a suspended rattan ceiling, peppered with colourful lamps and lanterns. There’s also a two-metre hearth at the heart of the restaurant. 

Ember roasted black cod, antichucho miso, pickled root vegetables; INCA of the bees cocktail.

The Inca experience is brought to Ponsonby with Watt’s dream team of more than 20 hospitality professionals. The management team has worked for Watt in some capacity for a combined 36 years — Front of House will be Naomi Kim, who joins from Masu, while Head Chef Dinyar Cardmaster is transitioning from Inca Newmarket. “I feel we have so much to offer,” says Watt.

Catering for all appetites large and small — with plenty of novel nuances throughout the well-thought-out menu and experience from Watt’s own 20 years experience in restaurants — Inca is a must-try addition to the Ponsonby dining scene.

Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday
Lunch (coming soon): 12 — 2:30pm
Dinner: 5pm – Late

Inca Ponsonby
9 Richmond Road,
Grey Lynn, Auckland

www.incarestaurant.co.nz

Gastronomy

These are the Auckland eateries staying open over the summer holidays, plus we’ve rounded up all of the holiday hospo hours you need to know
Escaping the city for the holidays? We round up the best eateries up and down the country
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best fish and chips in Auckland — and the scenic spots to enjoy them
Hailey Bieber wears Tiffany & Co.

Add some much-needed sparkle to your day with the prettiest jewellery to buy now

From emeralds to diamonds, silver to gold, when it comes to precious stones and metals, there’s no shortage of dazzling designs this season. Give yourself a literal glow with circular earrings and necklace pendants that will become a lucky charm, or try your hand at refined rings and bestowed bracelets held up to the light.

Signature Emerald Cut Button Back Ring by Jessica McCormack from Simon James, Double Row Ring in Yellow Gold with Diamonds from Tiffany & Co., Pave Cushion Ring by Crivelli from Partridge Jewellers.
Serpenti Viper Bracelet from Bulgari, Grain Set Line Diamond Bracelet from Sutcliffe Jewellers, Possession Open Bangle Bracelet by Piaget from Partridge Jewellers, Gem Dior Bracelet from Dior.
Serpenti Viper Earrings from Bulgari, Diamond Clover Stud Earrings from Sutcliffe Jewellers, Sophie Buhai Hinged 18kt gold-vermeil hoop earrings from Matches. Silver Mini Hoop Earrings from Laura Lombardi, Mini Calypso Earrings by Demarson from Muse, Medium Diamond Pave Huggie Earrings by Stone and Strand from Muse.


Lucky Move Necklace by Messika from Partridge Jewellers, Embellished pendant necklace by Bottega Veneta from Mytheresa, Coin Necklace by Acne Studios from Workshop.

Coveted

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Update your timepiece for the summer months ahead with our edit of the most exquisite water-resistant watches
From timeless one-pieces to chic bikinis and shorts for the boys, our swimwear edit has something for everyone

Mibo creates pastries with a twist at its picture-perfect bakery

In times like these we could all do with a little treat, making Mibo bakery an opportune opening in our midst. Tucked cosily on Enfield Road in Mount Eden, the stylishly sweet spot offers melt-in-the-mouth pastries to momentarily distract you from the worries of the world.

As the co-owner of Benedict’s, a nearby cafe that focuses on cabinet delights and a full brunch menu, Emma Zhao began experimenting with her beautiful baking, before the team decided to expand.

Right: Mibo’s Cinnamon Cruffins

“Auckland has so many amazing bakeries already, but I haven’t seen many Chinese flavours featured, which is kind of sad because we have so much to offer,” says Zhao, who is from China. “I’m very excited to be able to introduce these flavours into traditional viennoiseries and recreate some delicious baked goods from my childhood memories.” (The name Mibo comes from the word for ‘bread’ in Shanghainese.)

Photo by Jake Pears-Scown.

The interiors of Mibo, by Millé, feature timber to bring warmth as well as the feel of a traditional French shop front to the space. Overall, the colours are inspired by a mix of dusty wheat fields, and the existing washed-out shades at Benedict’s.

At the moment, Zhao’s favourite Mibo creation is an apple custard naisu — a sweet interpretation of the traditional treat that is buttery and milky with a crumbly texture. The cinnamon cruffin will always be memorable — it’s the first pastry she and Benedict’s head baker, Kris, first worked on, improving it in tempting iterations until it reached perfection. Paired with BeSpecialty coffee in hand, it creates a contented (rather than unprecedented) moment in time.

Current opening hours:
Monday to Friday: 7.30am — 2pm
Saturday to Sunday: 8am — 2pm

Mibo Bakery
30 Enfield Road,
Mount Eden, Auckland

Gastronomy

These are the Auckland eateries staying open over the summer holidays, plus we’ve rounded up all of the holiday hospo hours you need to know
Escaping the city for the holidays? We round up the best eateries up and down the country
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best fish and chips in Auckland — and the scenic spots to enjoy them

A wonderland of curiosities awaits, ready to surprise and delight as Gucci opens its doors in Newmarket

Come one, come all, Gucci’s delightful new boutique has opened in Westfield Newmarket. The iconic Italian fashion house joins a sterling lineup of brands including Balenciaga, Moncler, and Partridge Jewellers; Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent and Burberry.

Its arrival further solidifies the centre’s reputation as a one-stop destination for luxury, while the store’s bespoke design sets it apart from the rest.

A curved blush Breccia Oniciata marble exterior sets the tone for what lies within; a rose quartz-hued haven filled with men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, handbags, shoes, jewellery and accessories. Also to be found are the Gucci children’s collection, Gucci Décor and the recently launched Gucci Lifestyle collection. 

The interior perfectly complements the collections it houses, embracing eclecticism that is both contemporary and elegant. Varying floor textures mark different spaces, from the eye-catching black-and-white grid to the timber mosaic and classic parquet. Velvet seating welcomes those wishing for a moment of respite while softening the space, all the more opportunity to take in the colourful array of pieces on show.

Having just returned to the runway at February’s Milan fashion week after a two-year hiatus, Gucci remains at the pinnacle of the zeitgeist for revered luxury fashion. With the timely opening of another boutique on our shores, we now have even more opportunities to be a part of the magic.

Coveted

Stay cool as the weather heats up with these sleek new sunglasses worthy of a place in your collection
Update your timepiece for the summer months ahead with our edit of the most exquisite water-resistant watches
From timeless one-pieces to chic bikinis and shorts for the boys, our swimwear edit has something for everyone

Seamlessly embracing both past and present, this elegant home offers far more than meets the eye

When undertaking a home alteration that seeks to not only bring historical features well into the present day but to preserve a sense of heritage in the process, both a deft hand and expert eye are required. 

The versatility of Sydney-based architectural and interior design company Alexander & Co. made it the ideal candidate for the renovation of Spotted Gum House — what was originally just a sweet bungalow in Artarmon on Sydney’s North Shore.

The tidy brick cottage, which dates back to the early 20th century, has been reconfigured to now contain two guest bedrooms and bathrooms, a sitting room, laundry and study. To the rear has been added a double-storey extension that houses living, dining and kitchen areas on the ground floor, and the main bedroom on the upper level.

Tobi-Ishi Coffee Table by B&B Italia, available from Matisse.

The Alexander & Co. team have ensured the original house has been lovingly restored and flows via a wooden staircase into the ample additions. A sense of expansiveness overtakes, prevalent from the sheer scale of the spaces and high ceilings. These are shared areas for the residents and any guests to move within freely and comfortably, with huge steel-framed glass doors that can be thrown right open to the garden at the back, welcoming the outside in.

A pared-back palette and modernist influences allow the scale of this home to take impressive precedence. Despite the muted tones, it is imbued with a warmth from the mixture of textures — in keeping with one of Alexander and Co.’s key tenets of prioritising the expressiveness of craftsmanship. 

Right: Newood Relax Light chair by Brogliato Traverso for Cappellini, available from Matisse.

Wooden ceilings and stairs, pale brick walls and polished concrete floors visually define the space, adding contrast without being stark. 

It was important to the clients that this home trod lightly on the earth while also enhancing their own personal wellbeing. One of the central considerations of this transformation was sustainability, manifesting in the highest quality, innovative products and organic materials that had the lowest emissions possible. 

Double-glazed windows throughout and geothermal climate control ensure economical power usage for heating and cooling, while a circadian ‘dim’ lighting system works in conjunction with the rhythm of those living within. On the same floor as the master bedroom is a steam shower room and infrared sauna.

Furnishings act as a continuation of both the artisanal and sustainable sensibility. Incorporating both bespoke pieces and timeless additions by the likes of Michel Ducaroy, Cappellini and B&B Italia, Spotted Gum House is filled with comfort and elegance.

Clearly, every last detail has been considered with the rigorous attention that the Alexander & Co. team dedicates to each one of their projects. When respect for the past melds seamlessly with a thoroughly innovative approach, the results are nothing short of sublime.

Wooden Chair by Marc Newson for Cappellini, available from Matisse.
 Togo Sette by Michel Ducaroy for Ligne Roset, Duomo Original Wall Sconce by Nightworks Studio.
Right: Domus Lounge Chair by Ilmari Tapiovaara for Artek, available from Matisse.
York Bath by Victoria + Albert, available from Robertson.

Clockwise from top left: Tairua River by Kate Van Der Drift, available from Sanderson Contemporary; Lito Dual Trio Pendant by Powersurge; Leda armchair by Antonio Citterio for Flexform, available from Studio Italia; Twiggie by Marloe Marloe, available from In Black by Seagar Design;  Togo Sette by Michel Ducaroy for Ligne Roset.

Design

Tidy home, tidy mind — This innovative appliance is transforming modern living
Range Rover unveils its SV Haast Edition and our Editor-in-chief gets a front row seat
Transform your outdoor space into the ultimate oasis this summer with our picks of ECC’s best pieces to shop now

Delve into the human condition with these helpful and inspiring books for personal growth

While reading fiction can help us step into the shoes of someone else or be whisked away to another world, there is much merit to be found in expanding our viewpoints of the world we inhabit. Learn how to work smarter (not harder), how to develop your critical thinking and how to find a positive outlook, all by picking up one of the great reads below.

The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence by Jessica Lahey
Writer, teacher and recovering alcoholic Jessica Lahey wants to help parents and caregivers with this book, an empathetic and comprehensive resource for raising kids to grow up addiction-free.

The Comfort Book by Matt Haig
This sweet, small book is designed to act as a soothing balm for anyone struggling with life’s hardships. A collection of encouraging meditations and observations, it aims to give the reader a hopeful perspective, through a diverse array of global and personal sources. 

The Life-Changing Science of Detecting Bullshit by John V. Petrocelli
Undeniably timely, John V. Petrocelli expands on his viral TEDx Talk to tell us how we can develop critical thinking habits to recognise and combat false information and delusional thinking — arguably a major hallmark of the modern world.

The New Hustle: Don’t Work Harder, Just Work Better by Emma Isaacs
Successful entrepreneur, Business Chicks founder and mother of six Emma Isaacs is well-versed in maximising efficiency at every turn, and her new book is here to teach us to do the same. Condensed clearly into 77 ‘anti-rules’, The New Hustle aims to provide helpful ideas and strategies for more productive, creative and meaningful work, so we can get back to what it is we really want to do more of — enjoy life.

Culture

Update your playlist for the road trips ahead with our round-up of the new albums and podcasts that have our attention
With so many exceptional events happening in the city this summer, we round up where to eat, drink, play and stay
From open-air opera to music festivals and more, our Summer Culture Guide has everything to book this season

These at-home yoga workouts will help you stay flexible and fit from afar

As we find ourselves navigating the start of a third year in this pandemic, finding ways to reduce stress and anxiety is a wellness priority. What better way to find a new perspective than in the position of a downward dog or happy baby? The internet is filled with inspiring virtual classes catering to all preferences and abilities, and by signing up to those offered by a local yoga studio or practitioner, it’s a great way to support them if in-person classes are greatly reduced in numbers due to more people staying in.

Here is our pick of the best online sessions you can undertake at home.

Basecamp Power Yoga
If you sometimes find it hard to make it to a yoga class with your schedule, never fear — boutique Basecamp Power Yoga studio is bringing good vibes around the clock with its online studio. Sign up for access and you will have both individual videos and multi-part courses at your fingertips, as well as guided meditation.
Find all the information and classes here.

Wholehearted Yoga Studio
Wholehearted Yoga Studio closed its physical Birkenhead space in February, and just offers an online membership for $9.95 a week. This includes access to livestreamed sessions and a growing library of classes. Owner Araluen Clarke is a trained counsellor and supporter of ‘self-compassionate yoga’, and the classes hope to help both your body and mind (and central nervous system) look after themselves better.
Find all the information and classes here.

Sala
With its sleek online platform, boutique fitness studio Sala has all its in-demand classes in one place — including yoga. Find over 80 yoga classes of all lengths and strengths, from prenatal yoga to sweat-seeking sessions and restorative stretching. Membership costs $25 a month, or you can try free for 14 days if you’re new.
Find all the information and classes here.

EastWest
Popular Ponsonby Road yoga studio EastWest has a well-established suite of virtual classes ready to go. Priced on a sliding scale as to what you can afford, one auto-renewing payment per month gives you unlimited access to all classes including Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Yin and more. You can cancel at any time with no contract, but we don’t think you’ll want to thanks to the teachers’ expertise.
Find all the information and classes here.

Mahi Yoga
Newmarket-based studio Mahi Yoga makes it easy to keep your practice going, thanks to its new Mahi On Demand platform. A subscription fee of $30 unlocks the comprehensive library of yoga and meditation classes, designed for all different levels of expertise and fitness. The team have also created Spotify playlists tailored for each class, so you’ll really feel like you’re in the studio even if you’re just trying your best to find your zen in your living room.
Find all the information and classes here.

Om Studio
Offering both livestreamed Zoom classes and an ‘Omline’ yoga studio library for access any time, Om Studio is a well-oiled machine when it comes to virtual sessions. Purchase individual Zoom classes through its website or the Mindbody app, or pay a monthly membership fee for unlimited access to the library.
Find all the information and classes here.

Yoga With Kylie
Having completed both a Bachelor of Nursing degree and training to become a Yoga Medicine Registered Therapeutic Specialist, Auckland-based yoga instructor Kylie Rook aims to make yoga accessible to everyone. She teaches a range of practices and hosts several classes via livestream through her website. Sign up to her mailing list and receive a free month of yoga through Yoga With Kylie Online, and follow her on Instagram for additional updates.
Find all the information and classes here.

Wellbeing

Get your skin summer-ready with our round-up of the smoothing and sculpting treatments and products that actually work
Nail your New Year’s Eve makeup with these easy-to-do party looks
Shark Style Series: Chris Hunter steps us through recreating coverstar Maddison Brown’s effortless textured bun

It’s time to upgrade your protection — this is where to buy KN95, N95 and P2 masks to shield against Omicron

With the Omicron variant of Covid-19 known to be so transmissible, we not only need to be more stringent about when we are wearing masks, but what types of masks we’re wearing. Official advice recommends that “disposable high-filtration face masks or particulate respirators offer the highest level of protection, when used correctly.”

These are known by different names. P2 is the Australia/New Zealand respiratory standard, N95 is the United States respiratory standard, KN95 is the Chinese respiratory standard and FFP2 is the European respiratory standard.

Whatever mask you have, it’s imperative that it is well-fitting. Official advice also says “you can reuse these face masks several times if you leave them for 5 to 7 days between each use. If they no longer provide a tight fit around your face, then you should dispose of them.”

Demand has been high, so peruse our guide below of where to buy KN95, N95 and P2 masks.

-Firstly, it’s worth checking if your local chemist has supplies available. Otherwise, online medical store Amtech has P2 respirator masks.

-At Chemist Warehouse, P2 respirator masks are available in-store only, and Net Pharmacy has both KN95 masks and PM2.5 filters in stock.

-Locally-founded company Respiratory Protective Masks specialises in Korean Style face masks that combine comfort, fit and filter. They have greater than 99 percent BFE (Bacterial Filtration Efficiency) and PFE (Particulate Filtration Efficiency).

-Stationery stores like Office Max and PBTech have masks in stock, as does The Market (find good filters for cloth masks here too). Bunnings has masks in stock on its website but check with them directly for availability. Mitre 10 offers delivery on its KN95 masks, which are currently available at the time of writing this article.

Superette has Private Stock Labs KN95 masks in stock, which come in packs of five in various colours.

For more advice, visit the NZ Government’s Covid-19 website. The World Health Organisation also has comprehensive advice on masking.

Wellbeing

Get your skin summer-ready with our round-up of the smoothing and sculpting treatments and products that actually work
Nail your New Year’s Eve makeup with these easy-to-do party looks
Shark Style Series: Chris Hunter steps us through recreating coverstar Maddison Brown’s effortless textured bun