Sìso’s delectable summer menu offers a raft of fresh Mediterranean fare

Few things delight us more than a meal at Remuera’s neighbourhood favourite, Sìso. Thanks to its cosy interiors and its fresh Mediterranean fare, this is one eatery we find ourselves rebooking time and time again, whether it be for a romantic date night or an indulgent long lunch or dinner with friends (and everything in between).

Now, with the summer season heating up, it is to Sìso that we turn once again as the perfect place for the convivial get-togethers that inevitably take precedence at this time of year. And given that this stellar eatery has recently launched a delicious summer menu, the prospect of a visit here is even more appealing than ever before.

The new menu reads as an array of bold, contemporary dishes that capture the mouth-watering flavours of the Mediterranean and highlight seasonal ingredients. Those seeking a light, refreshing bite will find it in the grilled local octopus with tzatziki, baby cucumber and dill, the delicate yellow tail kingfish crudo with fermented fennel, chilli and pomegranate or the creamy burrata served with chopped peas, grilled asparagus and almond butter.

That said, the new main dishes do a good job of stealing the limelight here, with options like market fish with Southland clams, saffron risoni, green chilli and lemon, or hand cut linguine with Skull Island prawns, fermented chilli and semi-dried tomato, sitting alongside slightly heavier dishes like scaloppini of veal served with pickled golden beetroot, ras el hanout butter and toasted almonds, and a seriously tender Speckle Park beef scotch with eggplant caviar, whipped tahini and smoked bone marrow jus.

So, when considering where to book for your end-of-year dining affair, or simply for a delicious bite, we suggest that Sìso is one of your first calls. In fact, in light of its recent menu revamp, we have decided to give one lucky Denizen the chance to win a table for six (valued at $600), in order to experience it for themselves.

This competition is closed.

Sìso

311 Remuera Road
Auckland

(09) 522 6688

www.sisobarandeatery.co.nz

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From left: Versace Fall 22, Miu Miu Fall 22, Loewe Fall 22, Victoria Beckham Spring 23, Fendi Fall 22.

Hair-raising hemlines take centre stage with the mini styles taking over our wardrobes

The iconic mini skirt is back at the forefront of fashion once more, with super-short skirts and thigh-grazing dresses daring us to show a little leg. Aside from their obvious appropriateness for combating summer heat, these styles offer super chic, feminine silhouettes that honestly go with anything. Whether you plan on pairing yours with heels and a tailored jacket or simply throwing it over your swimsuit with an oversized shirt — there is a style here to suit any shape or taste.

From left: ALAÏA Hinge Skirt from Faradays, THE GARMENT Manhattan mini skirt from Workshop, Flared miniskirt from Christian Dior.
From left: Lurex tweed mini skirt from Louis Vuitton, Kid mohair and satin miniskirt from Prada, GG tweed skirt from Gucci.

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Planning a trip to Fiji? Karen Walker shares with us the best places to stay & everything to pack

There is a reason why New Zealanders have long chosen Fiji as their family escape of choice. Beyond the incredible natural beauty and gorgeous weather of this island nation, its fascinating culture and wonderfully welcoming people are really what has us returning time and time again, each trip a chance to create lasting memories.

This has long been the case for renowned fashion designer, Karen Walker, who first visited Fiji when she was four years old, and counts it as a cherished destination of her childhood. She has since returned over 20 times as an adult, and as such, has become something of an expert in where to go, what to see and (crucially) the perfect things to pack.

Given that Walker recently returned from her latest trip, with husband Mikhail and daughter Valentina in tow, we called on her knowledge to deliver an insider’s guide on everything to consider when planning a trip to Fiji — essential for anyone thinking about making this tropical pilgrimage themselves.

How to get there

One of the biggest drawcards of Fiji for New Zealanders (particularly those with young families) is the ease of travelling there. There are over 20 flights from New Zealand to Fiji every week, with flights taking around three hours and crucially, no time difference to adjust to when you arrive. In fact, you can leave New Zealand in the afternoon and land in Fiji just in time for cocktail hour, set against an exquisite sunset over one of Fiji’s coral atolls.

If you opt to fly Fiji Airways, expect a delectable in-flight service, created by award-winning Kiwi-Fijian chef, Richard Cross, who designed the on-board menu using local ingredients in innovative ways. (Think cinnamon ice cream, Kava and more.)

Once you have landed in Fiji, the process of getting to your resort usually means more than just a simple taxi ride. If you are staying on one of Fiji’s 333 islands, getting to your final destination could mean either a helicopter or seaplane fight or a speedboat ride, all of which allow you to soak in the stunning beauty of your surrounds before disembarking on the doorstep of your resort to be immediately immersed in a traditional Fijian welcome.

As Walker says, “Arriving in Fiji and hearing Bula Maleya (the Fijian welcome song) sung and smelling the syrupy sweetness of white frangipani is one of the best feelings I know.”

Dolphin Island Resort

Where to stay

On her most recent trip, Walker revisited a favourite island — the Dolphin Island Resort — on which she had three new experiences: The Wakaya Club & Spa, Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa and Six Senses Fiji. 

Dolphin Island Resort
On this private island, the sleek, luxury accommodation is run by a matronly resort manager, Dawn, who is famous for her hospitality that wraps guests in love and laughter, and has long made this resort one of the most special and memorable you are likely to experience. As Walker explains, it’s the reason she keeps going back. Only able to accommodate a maximum of eight guests, Dolphin Island feels more like being in a lovely home than a resort, and will feel like coming home every time you visit.

Wakaya Club and Spa

Wakaya Club and Spa
Discover another luxurious hideaway at Wakaya Club and Spa, set on a picture-perfect private island paradise and offering accommodation for only 28 guests at a time. Boasting a beautiful, golden-sand beach (right on the doorstep of your bure), incredible snorkelling (thanks to the rich coral reef surrounding the resort) and a spectacularly lush garden from which food is harvested and which can be enjoyed by guests, the resort is truly second to none. As Walker says “[this is] without a doubt the best example of a lush, tropical environment that I’ve ever seen in Fiji”.

Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa

Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa
Set on the sheltered western side of Viti Levu, the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa offers a tranquil escape on the main Denarau Island in Nadi — which makes it one of the easiest places to get to once you leave the airport. The Waitui Beach Club offers adults-only luxury like nowhere else, with lagoon-style infinity pools, a swim-up bar and cabanas galore. But beyond all of that, the Sofitel really leans into its French heritage by offering a gastronomic experience unlike anywhere else in Fiji. Offering stunning experiences such as barefoot dining in the sand, sipping house-infused rum on the Suka Bar swings, taking a walk through the on-site herb and vegetable gardens, or immersing yourself in the Fijian Night at Bazaar Kitchen & Bar, the resort is a foodie destination not to be missed.

Six Senses Fiji

Six Senses Fiji
Operating with health, wellbeing and sustainability at its heart, Six Senses Fiji is a calm, luxurious escape that offers an incredible spa and astonishing villas but that also places a strong emphasis on caring for the natural environment. In fact, Six Senses Fiji is home to 39 Fijian crested iguanas, a critically endangered species with less than 5,000 remaining in the world. Karen, Mikhail and Valentina enjoyed a double villa, which offered over 300 square meters of space and not one, but two, private pools. 

“Bad lighting is a pet peeve when I travel,” Karen explains, “so I especially loved the care given to the interior and the lighting at Six Senses Fiji and to know it was designed by Kiwi architect Richard Priest is even better.” She adds, “and having dozens of critically endangered Fijian crested iguanas in the rainforest near our villa was pretty darn special too.”

What to pack

In Fiji, make the most of barefoot luxury and the casual, laid-back vibe with a suitcase full of easy, breezy pieces that keep comfort front of mind. Here, Karen Walker delivers her top tips, as a seasoned Fiji holiday-goer.

Pack light — at a lot of resorts, laundry is generally included or at a small cost, so it’s really easy to re-wear your favourite holiday outfits! 

Don’t overcomplicate it — Most resorts also have all the gear for activities like yoga, snorkelling, water sports and even quite often have an excellent library consisting of many of the greatest Penguin Classics so that’s half a suitcase freed up right there. My favourite holiday reads right now are Let Me Tell You What I Mean by Joan Didion and Busy Being Free by Emma Forrest.

Multiple pairs of shades, Karen Walker ones (obviously) and a spare pair of spectacles in case of any accidents. Some of my favourite shades right now are the Blow Wave Two Torts (for a classic mood), the Wavy Ultra Two Torts (for a bit more fun) and the True North Wave Sundown Triple (for a LOT more fun).

Don’t forget sun protection — I never travel in summer or to the tropics without a big hat, a paper parasol (which you can get from Wah Lee in Albert Street) and of course, my preferred sunblock, Osmosis’ Protect.

Lots of sandals — my favourites right now are the Birkenstock Arizona EVA’s, or I’m loving the Nomadic State of Mind styles for summer right now.

Lots of swimmers too!

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Garlic King Prawns.
Bossi.
Bossi mezzanine.

Meet Bossi, Auckland’s newest inner-city Italian restaurant

On the ground floor of Auckland’s downtown residential skyscraper, The Pacifica, sits a new Italian restaurant Bossi. Simply step off the bustling sidewalk into its inviting space, and you’ll be instantly transported to a restaurant in Rome, as you take in the sophisticated surroundings, from luscious velvet furnishings to a sleek, curved marble-top bar. In fact, the space is as fitting for an intimate date as it is for an outing with family, lunch with colleagues or a spirited gathering with friends. After all, Italian cuisine is fit for the whole family, and owner Jenna Carter intends Bossi to be a welcoming experience. 

Carter had a strong vision for Bossi from the outset. She wants guests to feel like they’ve entered her home for a delicious meal — one that is reminiscent of her experience growing up within a tight-knit Italian community in Melbourne, and time spent with her late Nonna, whose portrait is proudly displayed on Bossi’s wall. 

“Opening a space like Bossi has been a dream of mine for years. Born out of pure passion and fond memories cooking with my Nonna, this is an ode to her and her legacy. I’m delighted to finally welcome Aucklanders and visitors alike to enjoy the many dishes my family has grown up with for decades”, says Carter.

From left: Bossi interior, Bossi Lasagne.

Complementing Carter’s nearby Italian deli Deli di Bossi, the Bossi restaurant offers an elevated take on contemporary Italian cuisine. Headed by Executive Chef Shaun Dowling, the passionate kitchen team all have Italian ties in some way or another, and we can firmly say their handmade pasta is nothing short of exceptional. The menu features crowd-pleasers like polenta with mushroom ragu and raviolo filled with egg yolk, the latter a divine and saucy creation cooked to perfection. Dowling’s house-made limoncello is also featured on the cocktail menu and infused into creamy gelato (trust us when we say, you will savour every spoonful). As Dowling puts it, the team have spent months curating Italian dishes that are “synonymous with luxury, without losing their timeless charm”. 

From left: Culurgiones with potato, gorgonzola and mushroom ragu, Bossi private dining space.

At Bossi, you may find yourself in an alluring booth, at a table, seated in the upstairs mezzanine (which can also be booked for large gatherings), or in the private dining space (which seats 10). The cherry on top is perhaps the inspired rendition of Michelangelo’s ‘The Creation of Adam’, masterfully painted by mural artist Ross Lewis. And as you revel in Bossi’s elegant setting, if you look hard enough, you may discover other Renaissance-style surprises, like the golden cherubs tucked behind the bathroom doors.  

From left: Limoncello Baba, Bossi Exterior.

In our eyes, Bossi is the perfect execution of Carter’s vision, bringing an air of much-needed romance to downtown Auckland. Set to open on Friday the 2nd of December, we suggest you book a table now, as hungry Aucklanders (including the hundreds of residents in The Pacifica above) flock to this delectable new destination. 

This competition is now closed. 

Gastronomy

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Using a range of Dyson tools, Superette’s Rickie Dee delivers her guide to chic, summer hair

As Superette celebrates the arrival of Dyson’s innovative hair range into its online store, we sought out the guidance and stylish eye of Superette’s Rickie Dee to uncover her favourite, go-to hairstyles. Using a line-up of Dyson’s pioneering hair care technology (in the new limited-edition vinca blue & rose colours), Rickie creates a series of simple but effective looks that are timeless, effortlessly chic and suitable for any kind of occasion. More importantly, each hairstyle can be easily recreated at home. “If I’m under time pressure I can get away with a quick blow dry and then just use the Dyson Flyaway attachment,” Rickie explains, “it has a similar effect on my hair as when I straighten it and also helps with controlling frizz.”

So, whether you’re heading to a formal event, a daytime soirée or simply wanting to step up your everyday look, these three hairstyles cover all the necessary bases.

A smooth and straight hairstyle is a classic, enduring look for an evening event or dinner out. This look was achieved using the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer with the Flyaway attachment and the Dyson Corrale cordless straightener.

“My hair is naturally wavy and it takes a little more effort to get it feeling sleek… but I love styling my hair like this. I achieve this sleek look by drying my hair with the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer (it doesn’t take long to dry compared to a regular hair dryer). I then use the Dyson Corrale cordless straightener on the lowest setting to perfect the look without damaging my blonde hair. I love pairing this look with wide-leg pants, heels and a blazer”, Rickie reveals. “The Dyson Corrale cordless straightener really is streets ahead of anything I have ever used… and it’s cordless, so I can pop it in my bag to do touchups if need be and ensure my hair stays sleek all day”.

Elevate the every day with a sleek low bun, matching your effortlessly chic attire. This look was achieved using the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer with the Flyaway attachment.

“This really is my go-to, everyday office look. It’s super quick and easy, and ideal for when I’m busy and I don’t have time to wash my hair” Rickie tells us. “I start by styling my hair into a low bun. I run the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer with the Flyaway attachment down the bun before securing it into position to remove any frizz and flyaways to execute a polished, effortless look. I pair my look with a relaxed pant and shirt combo, or with jeans and a t-shirt. It’s my staple outfit.”

From left: Dyson Supersonic hair dryer in limited edition vinca blue & rose, Linen Tyler Pant, Nash Shirt (available from December), all from Superette.

Take your look from day to night with soft, beachy waves — a hairstyle you’ll achieve with ease using the Dyson Airwrap multi styler.

“I use the Dyson Airwrap multi styler in the long version as my hair sits just below my shoulders. It helps create a more defined beach wave, and a salon-style blow-dry at home. Because the Dyson Airwrap multi styler dries and styles at the same time, it makes my routine so much simpler”, Rickie says. “My hair is naturally a little wavy so I like that it looks effortless and uncomplicated…a little like my natural hair. It feels understated, yet still put together.”

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Pumpkin Swivelling armchair and ottoman by Pierre Paulin from Ligne Roset

Denizen’s definitive Christmas Gift Guide: What to buy the design devotee in your life

Lovers of design can be some of the most difficult people to buy for come Christmas time, simply because they tend to have very particular tastes. That said, we have been careful to curate a lineup of design-forward items that are sure to tick any box. From objets d’art to fine furniture, these pieces will impress even the most discerning design collector. You’re welcome.

Reverse Table Lamp by Aleksandar Lazic for Menu from Tim Webber
Designed to highlight the beauty of natural materials, Menu’s Reverse Table Lamp, designed by Danish designer Aleksandar Lazic, is an exquisite ode to simplicity. Inspired by Italian marble tables from the 1970s and a play on structures created by geometric constraints, Lazic conceived the lamp with a conical travertine base and curved, bronzed aluminium shade, offering a perfectly-balanced silhouette and practical but sophisticated lighting solution for any space.

Haller Bedside Unit by Paul Schaerer & Fritz Haller for USM from ECC
Utter simplicity sits at the heart of Haller’s USM system, something that is particularly true when it comes to the most practical piece in any private space — the bedside table. Available in a range of variations to suit any desire, need, or specific aesthetic, this particular bedside unit is sleek, understated and able to be made to exacting dimensions, making it perfect for those with unique requirements or especially discerning tastes.

Vase ZZ66A-503 and Vase ZZ66A-502 by Ettore Sottsass for Bitossi from Matisse
Give the design-lover in your life something eye-catching for their dining table, kitchen bench or living room with these geometric vases. Designed by Ettore Sottsass for Bitossi, these two black and white pieces are made from hand-turned white clay and are finished in a modern, matte, black-and-white pattern that is undeniably head-turning.

Zig Zag pouf by Kettal from Studio Italia
Perfect for someone with an outdoor space in need of dressing, the Zig Zag Pouf by Kettal is an easy, contemporary design piece that is as practical as it is easy on the eye. Made from hardy rope that has been cleverly fixed over a subtly geometric aluminium frame, this piece is something the recipient is sure to find useful over the summer season.

Pumpkin Swivelling armchair by Pierre Paulin from Ligne Roset
If you want to splash out on someone particularly special, why not treat them to a true investment piece? The iconic Pumpkin Swivelling Armchair by Pierre Paulin from Ligne Roset (originally designed in 1971  for the private collection of a former French president) is not only a universally-loved, truly exceptional piece of design, but is something that any lucky recipient will cherish in their homes for the rest of their lives. From its gently-curved shape to the way in which it welcomes hours of relaxed lounging, this chair is one that every design aficionado will want to tick off their list.

Opal Glass Bowl by Kristina Dam from Frobisher
The perfect stocking stuffer for any design lover, the beautifully-crafted Opal Glass Bowl by Kristina Dam boasts soft, rounded curves and a minimalist, almost-retro finish. Made from double-layered, hand-blown glass, it is destined to fit right in on any well-curated bookshelf or coffee table.

Galaxy Z Flip4 from Samsung
Strike the right balance for someone who likes good design as much as they enjoy innovative technology with Samsung’s new Galaxy Z Flip4 — the bold new take on the classic flip phone. From its slim-line design, its subtle but versatile colour options and its 6.7-inch display on Ultra Thin Glass to its superior photo quality, this phone really is a design lover’s dream. It also boasts advanced durability thanks to its screen made from exclusive Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, a hinge protected by Armor Aluminum (Samsung’s toughest aluminium frame) and its ability to sit in 1.5-metres of water for up to 30 minutes without being affected at all. Perfect for beach season, we think.

Gyselle Mirror by Opera Contemporary from Sarsfield Brooke
Proving that sometimes, it’s the simple, practical things that make the best presents, Opera Contemporary’s Gyselle Mirror is the kind of gift that your design-conscious friend might not be expecting but is sure to absolutely love. Made in an elegant oval shape and finished with a sleek, metal frame, this chic mirror is available in a range of sizes and finishes to suit any space.

Jackson Easy chair from Devon
The perfect gift for anyone with an epic outdoor area, the Jackson Easy Chair from Devon is a cool, contemporary piece that your recipient will get plenty of use out of over the summer months. Finished in fine sanded teak and a durable, handwoven weave, this chair will look as at home on a sprawling balcony as it will around any well-loved, al fresco dining table.

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Your first look at Underground Bistro, the new seafood-centric restaurant & bar in St Kevin’s Arcade

A charming new restaurant and wine bar has opened in Karangahape Road’s St Kevin’s Arcade, and it feels like a natural evolution for co-owners Adam Purcell and Lindon Wahrlich, as they build on their already-prolific presence in this iconic building. Having spent the last three years running Junktion (selling film cameras and vintage goods), Norwegian Wood (a mid-century modern furniture store) and Underground (a multi-use basement space), the duo has created what is poised to be the perfect place for those in the community to come together over delicious fare and refreshing drinks — and we have your first look.

A tiny but undeniably charming venue (once home to Acho’s), Underground Bistro is located in Shop 11 in St Kevin’s Arcade (directly next to Norwegian Wood and just across from Lowbrow). The space itself is pocket-sized, only allowing for between four and seven people to sit inside (depending on the configuration of the evening) although generous bar leaners spill out into the arcade, allowing for larger groups to mingle or for anyone to pull up a perch. In short, it’s clear that the owners haven’t let themselves be limited by size. Aesthetically, Underground Bistro is a loose continuation of the ‘bunker’ theme seen in downstairs’ Underground, with much of the fit-out created from items that have been found and collected over the years, including marble-topped tables that date back to the 20s and lampshades reminiscent of the 50s. It’s an eclectic space that offers all the character needed to thrive in this corner of town and feels like the missing piece of the Arcade’s puzzle.

From the kitchen, the intention is for food to be fuss-free, uncomplicated and delicious — with an ever-changing, pescatarian-friendly menu designed to incorporate the freshest ingredients. Here, a variety of seafood is the hero, where you’ll find dishes like a home-style risotto (which we’re told is a stand-out), freshly shucked oysters, and scampi grilled in its shell for an utterly rich flavour. “If it pays its way and people enjoy the food, that’s the dream,” Wahrlich tells me.

From the bar, expect to find Purcell, or one of his friends who works at the neighbouring stores, to be serving up natural wines, Cassels beer, and a complete menu of tasty spritzes. The perfect selection to quench any pre- or post-dinner thirst.

While originally intended as the sister venue to Underground, this new bistro is fast making its own, distinctive mark. And, if the pre-opening parties it has thrown over the last couple of weeks is any indication, Underground Bistro is already building a loyal following. Our advice? Get down to discover its wonder before everyone else finds out.

Underground Bistro

Shop 11, St Kevin's Arcade,
183 Karangahape Road,
Newton, Auckland

www.instagram.com/undergroundbistro_nz

Gastronomy

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This new body oil will have you glowing from head to toe

Promising a glow that extends beyond the summer months and where graceful anti-aging takes precedence, Tronque’s latest product, the Fully Ripe Vitamin C Body Oil, is delivering the kind of skincare the rest of your body has been craving. Harnessing vitamin C, the hero ingredient you’ll find in many facial routines to reinvigorate our complexions, it is now a necessary addition to our body-care routines.

The Fully Ripe Vitamin C Body Oil delivers a potent trio of ingredients for anti-aging and luminous skin. It features Vitamin C THD, which is 50 times more effective than traditional iterations of this ingredient, alongside patented ceramides and a revolutionary lipid complex that contributes to lasting moisture, skin plumping, even texture, and a supple, youthful sheen. After an arduous testing process to ensure maximum efficacy, the final formula is luxurious to apply and rich in delicious ingredients. A lightweight oil that glides onto your body post-shower, it’s neither greasy nor comedogenic. Instead, it is easily absorbed, and the perfect precursor to the brand’s coveted Body Butter.

From essential vitamins and fatty acids to antioxidants, magnesium and beta-carotene, Tronque’s new addition is offering our bodies the nourishment they desire — and thank goodness for that. Moreover, it is rare to find a potent, hard-working formulation, made without any harmful endocrine disruptors, synthetics, or other troublesome ingredients. 

And, like all of Tronque’s products, the scent is what keeps us coming back for more. With a citrusy aroma, offering a lasting, fresh fragrance on the skin, it is a natural, fruit-inspired scent that feels perfectly suited to the summer days ahead.

We recommend you pair the Fully Ripe Vitamin C Body Oil with Tronque’s new Body Contour Massager, which operates as a gua sha for your limbs. This tool will intuitively massage the oil into your skin while depuffing and stimulating lymphatic drainage, forming the final step of a body-care routine that will have you glowing from head to toe.

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Here’s why Cassina’s iconic Cab Chair is the seat every dining table needs

When we think about our dining spaces, where long evenings are spent consuming delicious food and drinks (and with good company), few chairs are more suited for the task than Cassina’s Cab Chair. A sophisticated piece of furniture, the chair was designed by Mario Bellini for the renowned Italian brand in 1977.

And for this storied chair, its sublime fit is everything. At the time of the Cab Chair’s release, it was the first ever chair to feature a free-standing leather structure (constructed entirely out of cowhide), inspired by the way in which skin fits over a skeleton and the perfectly-fitted lines of a bespoke, tailored garment. Meticulously constructed, the chair’s upholstery consists of sixteen pieces of saddle leather, individually die-cut, before undergoing fourteen different procedures by hand. The pieces then have their outer edges trimmed to ensure a perfect fit, before being sewn together. Once assembled, the cover is attached to the chair’s steel frame and fastened with a zipper.


The Cab Chair proves that design can be as much about the tenets of upholstery as it is about structural form. (The only additional reinforcement to the chair is provided by a plastic plate that supports the seat). Its finish is sleek and beautifully resolved, bringing an understated but undeniably sophisticated presence to any kind of dining space.

In fact, Bellini’s indelible mark on contemporary design has long made him an industry icon. The epitome of Italian cool, his most famous creations emit an aura of effortless comfort and masterful restraint. Throughout his epic career, the designer has remained true to his personal vision — one that is globally appreciated, with 25 works found in the permanent design collection at MOMA in New York.

Now, some 50 years since its conception, the Cab Chair has undergone a subtle evolution to meet modern demands, with additional armrest options and a deeper seat pitch, should lounging be deemed necessary. While the classic 412 chair sits at the head of the Cassina Cab family, it has also inspired barstools and sofas that boast the same meticulous construction and elegant design approach. An undeniable icon, the Cab Chair will not only give your dining space a refined edge, but will be a piece you cherish for a lifetime.

Cab Chair by Mario Bellini for Cassina is available locally from Matisse.

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Meet the organisation providing welfare to our brave firefighters and their families

Always the first to respond to emergencies and often confronted with tragic situations as a result, the brave men and women who work as our firefighters deserve so much more than what they currently get for their lifesaving efforts. This idea is the core ethos of the New Zealand Firefighters Welfare Society, an organisation run by firefighters to look after crews and their families, and a cause that we think is worthy of our philanthropic efforts this season.

The background
In the mid-1980s, a core team of firefighters realised the need for support in their industry, and being a courageous collective, they decided to do something about it themselves. Pooled together, they knew their resources would be able to support one another in times of need. As a practical step to help their fellow firefighters through tough times, they placed a biscuit tin at the centre of their station table and started adding money to it. Soon, this idea spread across the country, and eventually, the NZ Firefighters Welfare Society was born. Over time, this grew to include a dedicated healthcare plan for firefighters and their families in the form of a fund, Healthcare99.

Who Are They
Four decades since its inception, the NZ Firefighters Welfare Society remains steadfast in its ethos — firefighters helping firefighters and their families. With a board of representatives from up and down the country (all active or retired firefighters) and five regional welfare managers, it remains a grassroots, not-for-profit that ensures its efforts are delivered to those who need it most.

What They Do
Firefighters and their families can take advantage of abundant support for a small weekly membership commitment. Alongside welfare assistance (including injury and hospital assistance, loans and grants, and further support such as childbirth and adoption, counselling and disaster funds), members also receive discounts at many essential daily businesses. These include insurance providers, mechanics and large appliance retailers, fast-tracked connections to external support networks and access to society-owned holiday homes for the break they absolutely deserve. Given that the Society has been built by those who know the industry intimately, it has honed in on providing the support that is targeted and strategic, and makes a significant and measurable impact.

How To Get Involved
The NZ Firefighters Welfare Society relies hugely on philanthropic support. Financial donations are always welcome if you have the capacity to contribute. Word of mouth is also tremendously important to their efforts, as membership contributions support other members in their times of need, too.

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