While Jervois Steak House has retained its status as the purveyor of the best steak in town for nearly two decades, the delightful new summer menu from this Jervois Road stalwart has us rushing to book our favourite table, STAT.
The Jervois Steak House team have pulled out all the stops by bringing in just the right amount of seasonal, summery fare while still retaining the essence of what JSH is all about. To celebrate, we’re giving you a chance to win a table for four, so you can try it all for yourself. And to get you excited for any summer dinners to come, we’ve rounded up the stand-out dishes that you simply have to try.
Salt and pepper calamari, smoked taramasalata, Turkish butter, lemon.
Salt and pepper calamari with smoked taramasalata, Turkish butter and lemon Few dishes feel as summery as fresh calamari, perhaps somewhat reminiscent of fish & chips on the beach, and this new addition to the JSH menu is better than most. Spices such as smoked paprika, toasted cumin and coriander seeds are used in the coating, which pairs with the creamy taramasalata and crispy squid beautifully.
Skull Island prawns with n’duja butter, lime salt and soft house-made bread This dish is a must-order if you’re looking to begin on a high note. The prawns, smothered in n’duja butter, come with fresh, house-baked Parker House rolls, which are so soft and fluffy — perfect for mopping up the prawn juices and butter.
Yellowfin tuna with heirloom tomato, radish, chipotle oil and rice cracker We tend to think that few dishes are a better precursor to a steak dinner than fresh fish, and this tuna crudo is the perfect appetiser.The tuna itself is so fresh and, paired with heirloom tomato and radish, it feels somewhat virtuous too.
Free range chicken schnitzel with whipped feta, zucchini, peas, lemon and anchovy butter and dill As much of a crowd-pleaser as steak itself, making for a lighter summer alternative too, the chefs at JSH thought it was high time they introduced a chicken schnitzel to their menu. This one is finished with a creamy and tart whipped feta, with shaved zucchini and fresh peas to add a touch of light, seasonal greens. Finished with dill, it’s schnitzel like you’ve never tried it before.
Fried potato gnocchi, grilled mushrooms, pecorino, parsley pistou JSH isn’t initially associated with fanciful vegetarian fare, but this delicious gnocchi promises to change even the most devout carnivore’s mind. In this iteration, gnocchi is lightly fried for a crispier texture before being topped with confit mushrooms (with garlic, thyme, lemon and fennel seeds). Then grilled for a smoky charred flavour, it is complete on an umami-driven mushroom puree and an astringent and punchy parsley pistou.
We could sing this menu’s praises all day long, but when it comes to food like this, you really need to experience it firsthand. (And for those with an affinity for a classic take, JSH still offers their usual signature cuts and classic sides too.)
With a chaotic calendar of celebratory events descending upon us, from festive lunches to New Year parties and all of the social occasions in between, looking our best is an absolute must. With this in mind, here are three luxurious beauty treatments we recommend you book now to have you feeling and looking amazing all festive season long, courtesy of the renowned beauty and wellness purveyors at Spring Spa.
1. LED Light Treatment Schedule It’s always a good time to start your LED red light therapy journey. The treatment is said to soften the skin’s appearance and minimise fine lines while improving its natural ability to renew and repair. While one treatment is enough to give you an immediate glow, Spring Spa’s week-long boot camp or 28-day programme offers a schedule designed to leave you with noticeable results for an extra-special affair (summer brides, this one’s for you).
2. Margaret Dabbs Supreme Manicure We think there is no better time of year to get creative with your manicures, and the experts at Spring Spa happen to agree. The Margaret Dabbs Supreme Manicure is the crown jewel of nail treatments here, using an array of luxurious products and including a (much-desired) relaxing arm and hand massage to unwind. If adventurous nail art doesn’t speak to you, we suggest a bright and bold colour that feels both festive and summery — even if just a coloured French tip. Come the silly season, you’ll be glad you did.
3. Brow & Lash Tint Package Covering all the eye-related essentials, this package is one swift way to ensure your brows and lashes are in check for a busy social calendar ahead. The 45-minute appointment comprises a brow shape (your choice of waxing or threading), and a brow tint and lash tint to enhance your natural features. Lasting all summer long, for extra beautification, we recommend adding on a Yumi Lash Lift. This premium Keratin treatment lifts your natural lashes upwards, accentuating your eyes and creating the appearance of longer, thicker, and more fluttery lashes (there’s no need for eyelash extensions here).
The team behind Albany’s Fields and Māngere’s Percy are famed for creating eateries with a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional fare, and they’ve replicated this exact vibe with their latest venture, Huddle. A neighbourhood joint situated just across the road from Colin Maiden Park and forming part of the ongoing development of Te Tauoma on the site of the former Tāmaki campus of the University of Auckland, Huddle fills a much-needed gap in the St John and Stonefields cafe scene.
Huddle is a cafe for everybody — equally as pleasing to nearby workers as it is to sports teams and passers-by. Whether you desire a post-workout smoothie (after a class at the nearby pilates studio), a rejuvenating cup of Atomic coffee or the use of a private room for lunch with colleagues (it seats up to 20), Huddle is destined to be a hubbub of activity.
Left to right: Huddle, Korean fried chicken tacos with gochujang sauce and pineapple & jalapeno salsa.
When you first step into the inviting space, it envelops you with its bright and contemporary feel. Designed by Material Creative, the firm best known for its delightfully surprising design, clever details alluding to the cafe’s name soon become apparent — ‘huddle’ being the action of a team gathering together. This sports-related ethos is mirrored in everything from the ‘field markings’ on the floor to the goal-post-shaped pendant lights, not to mention the community-focused idea of ‘bringing it in’.
You’ll be drawn into Huddle for the location and ambience, but you’ll return time after time for its exquisite food. Traditional brunch dishes are done impeccably and with a modern twist. Think chilli scrambled egg on toast (with the option to add crab meat), eggs benedict with brown butter hollandaise and potato rosti, smooth and creamy chocolate granola (that is also gluten- and dairy-free), and smashed peas on kumara sourdough.
Left to right: Roasted mushroom medley on toast, Huddle seating.
Elevated lunch options will tantalise your tastebuds — we highly recommend the Korean-style chicken tacos with gochujang sauce and pineapple and jalapeno salsa, or the refreshing papaya salad with grilled garlic butter prawns and chilli and lime dressing. There’s also a bounty of sweet treats in the cabinet, from coffee and custard lamingtons to chocolate almond croissants, making the Huddle the perfect destination for a well-deserved pick-me-up.
Ultimately, Huddle is a place that will bring together people with its stellar service and offering. Join us in flocking to this cafe from today as it opens its doors to hungry groups in search of a good cup of coffee, a hearty meal, and an unbeatable ambience.
Opening hours: Monday — Friday, 7am to 3pm. Saturday — Sunday, 8am to 4pm.
261 Morrin Road
Park City
Saint Johns
Auckland 1072
Precious gems in vibrant hues are the season’s answer to high jewellery, with our favourite jewellers offering pieces that feel festive and simultaneously timeless.
Take Partridge’s multi-coloured sapphire dome ring, a kaleidoscopic collision of colour set in 18ct of yellow gold. Tiffany & Co.’s Schlumberger Fluerage bracelet is a more pared-back approach where colour is concerned, but still offers diamond-encrusted clusters of fanciful, incomparable detail that will heighten any look. And, of course, the Folie des Press watch from Van Cleef & Arpels — a timepiece that effortlessly captures a euphoric moment in time.
From left: Multi-Coloured sapphire dome ring from Partridge. Floral fancy ring from Sutcliffe. Marina Multicoloured sapphire ring from Partridge. Arabian nights ring from Sutcliffe.
Bulgari The Garden of Wonders Collection.
From left: Schlumberger® Fleurage bracelet from Tiffany & Co. Spirit Radiance bracelet from Louis Vuitton. Over the rainbow earrings from Partridge. FABERGÉ Multicoloured Gemstone Grand ring from Partridge.
Tepoz earrings, necklace, bracelet, wristwatch, and ring from Cartier.
As the ‘sober curious’ movement shows little sign of slowing, with more and more people embracing sobriety (or simply limiting their alcohol intake), the need for a permanent space that caters to this persuasion has become evident. And after the sell-out success of its Ponsonby pop-up back in July, AF has, today, made history by opening the doors to the country’s first-ever 100% alcohol-free bottle shop.
At The Curious AF Bottle Shop, shoppers have the opportunity to try and buy an array of delicious drinks from a number of brands, including Curious AF’s own range, from its classic g&t to refreshing spritzes. The AF cocktails have been formulated to replicate the taste of alcohol and harness the power of ‘Afterglow’, a natural heat extract that produces a gentle warming feeling, essentially mimicking the taste and sensation of the real thing. Alongside the AF range, sourced especially for the shop opening, sit some of the most coveted labels in the sober alcohol-free movement, including such as alcohol-free aperitif Ghia, Vandestreek IPA, Noughty Sparkling Rose and Bella Hadid’s famed range Kin Euphorics. To keep things curious and exciting, AF will regularly change up the selection of alcohol-free drinks available in the shop.
Lisa King.
Founder Lisa King, of Eat My Lunch fame, explains that the overwhelming success of AF Drinks’ July pop-up ensured the concept’s longevity. “Across just a few short weeks, some 2000 people walked through our beautiful art gallery-inspired installation to discover what the Curious AF movement had to offer,” she says. “And it didn’t disappoint. In the first few weeks, we sold out of many product lines and received an overwhelming number of requests to make the pop-up permanent.” Four months later, this vision has now been realised.
Off the back of Dry July, Sober October, and a slightly more ambitious No Beers November (in support of Movember), it is fair to say that many of us are looking for something that quenches the thirst without relying on the social crutch that is alcohol. As such, The Curious AF Bottle Shop’s new Crummer Road address, designed by Wonder Group, is anticipated to become a go-to spot for any alcohol-free hosting necessities too, including specialty ice moulds, garnishes, glassware and accessories.
AF Drinks range.
Through extending the notion of ‘sober curiosity’, The Curious AF Bottle Shop space is just as much about the experience, as it is about the products it offers. “It’s very much a hands-on, glasses-at-the-ready experience,” King shares. “We also want to host a series of unique AF events in the space.”
Offering a break from booze in the best way, this new bottle-o is set to become a firm favourite ahead of the upcoming festive season.
The Curious AF Bottle Shop Opening hours: Monday — Wednesday, 10am until 5pm. Thursday — Saturday, 10am until 6pm. Closed Sundays.
Words Margie Riddiford | PHOTOS Simon Devitt | 18 Nov 2022
Anyone who has a piece from Molteni&C in their home will know the beguiling beauty of this brand. Having had the exceptional creative mind of Vincent Van Duysen at its helm for six years now (the brand itself began in the 1930s), Molteni&C produces distinctly sleek and sophisticated collections.
Beyond its design prowess alone, however, it is the quality and craftsmanship of Molteni&C that has cemented its standing as a brand worth investing in. Not only is it one of the only furniture marques in the world with a production chain that is still 100 percent made in Italy (from materials to final products), but throughout its decades of history, it has remained a pioneer, perpetually at the forefront of trends to drive the evolution of the wider industry.
Now, having embarked on a creative collaboration with local retailer, Dawson & Co., the architectural team at Molteni&C have conceived a one-of-a-kind, private apartment in Auckland that showcases the brand like never before.
“When one of our clients introduced us to a private project which included an empty apartment with plenty of potential, we proposed a unique collaboration,” Scott Fisk of Dawson & Co. tells me. “The Molteni&C/Dada apartment is a private residence — part showcase, part accommodation — available for use overnight by invitation only and designed to give potential Molteni&C clients the rare opportunity to sleep, eat and live a Molteni&C life.” Indeed, those lucky enough to experience this new residential concept in person will be able to interact with Molteni&C collections that cannot be seen anywhere else in New Zealand, and gain insight into how certain pieces might be incorporated into their own homes.
Tucked away in one of Auckland’s leafy suburbs and surrounded by hospitality establishments, retail shops and private homes, the Molteni&C/Dada apartment’s unassuming exterior belies the beauty that unfolds beyond the threshold. A perfectly-appointed living and dining space is anchored by a Dada kitchen with a long, travertine bench-top and V-Zug appliances (including a refrigerator stocked with Champagne, wine, cheese, charcuterie and other essentials), while the main bedroom contains an awe-inspiring Gliss Master Wardrobe (a Van Duysen design that is quite possibly the most perfect wardrobe we have ever seen). The rest of the apartment is filled with a range of furniture from Molteni&C collections, where modern pieces stand alongside classics, including some that were originally designed more than 50 years ago by the likes of Gio Ponti, Tobia Scarpa and Yasuhiko Itoh — proving the inherently timeless nature of this heritage brand.
With no detail left unchecked (everything from the tiles to the tapware was conceived by the Molteni&C team in Italy), this apartment is truly a spectacular expression of the brand it showcases, putting into practice the precision and perfection that has long made Molteni&C one of the world’s most sought-after names in design.
With the festive season around the corner, the question of gifting has started to come up more and more often, as we think about who we want to buy presents for, and importantly, what those presents will be. And considering there’s always one person on everybody’s list who is notoriously hard to buy for, we thought we would do the hard work for you and curate a line-up of eye-catching, fun, and luxurious gifts from Qeeboo’s new arrivals at Peggy.
Started by Stefano Giovannoni in 2016, this lauded brand has built its reputation on creating design pieces that are narrative-driven, sculptural, expressive and totally unique, from the large-scale Kong and the Turtle coffee tables to the (very cute) Rabbit bookends. The coolest addition to any kind of home (and available in a range of colours and styles), the newest Qeeboo pieces have us returning to local stockist Peggy time and time again to find the perfect gifts for anyone — no matter how hard they are to buy for. Read on to see the pieces we’re coveting as gifts, or pick up something special for your very own space.
Giraffe in Love Chandelier Lamp.
Standing sweet at a petite one-metre-tall, Giraffe In Love XS is a sleek sculptural work, swinging a Marie-Therese style chandelier from its mouth. Perfect for open spaces as it is intimate corners, the lamp is both a versatile and playful design object.
Kong Lamp.
The least intimidating larger-than-life gorilla we’ve ever encountered, the majestic Kong Lamp offers a calming and fun presence for indoor and outdoor spaces. To inject the same personality into a smaller room, Kong’s XS size is a welcome addition to any buffet or side table.
Paris Table Lamp.
For those seeking a sojourn to Paris, the addition of this lamp will feel like a poignant reminder of the City of both Love and Lights in any corner of your home. The lamp’s playful tilt makes it perfect for bedside reading as it is for highlighting your considered decor.
Turtle Carry Jewellery Tree.
Given the popularity of Qeeboo’s original Turtle Carry, these additions to the delightful range further push the bounds of just what can be carried on the reptile’s back. The jewellery tree (pictured above) acts as a cute bedside catchall that is perfectly at home atop any vanity desk too. For a welcome addition of nature, his friend, the Turtle Carry Planter (pictured below) is a subtle yet sweet inclusion produced in the same white opaque resin, fitting perfectly into any corner of the house.
Turtle Carry Planter.
Discover the Qeeboo range online and in-store at Peggy and selected stockists nationwide.
Having just opened its doors officially, new waterfront bar and brasserie Bivacco Bar and Grill has fast become the place to be. Set in the iconic Viaduct Harbour spot that used to house Headquarters, this exceptional new hospitality destination is offering the kind of experience that one might compare to the likes of Balthazar in New York or Totti’s in Sydney — such is its scale.
As much a place for long, indulgent lunches of flavourful Italian fare as it is for a late-afternoon drink, Bivacco is quickly establishing itself as one of the best places to head to when the work day is done — mostly because of its dedicated aperitivo hour. From 4pm to 6pm, Monday to Friday, Bivacco welcomes punters to watch the sun go down over the sparkling waters of Viaduct Harbour, as they delight in an array of champagne, cocktail, and Peroni specials, accompanied by complimentary bites.
Of course, Bivacco’s antipasti menu is extensive and delicious, where dishes like burrata with black garlic, courgette, mint and asparagus and raw white asparagus, drizzled with aged balsamic and thyme and finished with parmesan, meet the likes of fried mozzarella sticks with caviar, and delicate beef carpaccio with truffle, wild garlic, pickled mushroom and ricotta salata. On the main menu, a number of tasty pizza and pasta dishes sit alongside meats that have been cooked to perfection on an open flame, as well as an array of satiating sides and one of the best tiramisu dishes we have ever tried.
Having opened just in time for the summer season, Bivacco is one of the best places in the City at which to make the most of the long, warm nights and beautiful sunsets that will become more and more frequent in the coming weeks — after all, you won’t get much better than this spot for views, food and drinks.
To celebrate the opening of this stunning new destination, we are giving away a Bivacco aperitivo and dining experience to one lucky Denizen valued at $900. From a selection of antipasti (including shaved white asparagus and fried mozzarella) to goat’s cheese ravioli, wood-fired whole John Dory and Bivacco’s signature dish of Veal Milanese, finished off with an Amalfi lemon tart and rosemary ice cream and drinks to match, this is one experience to savour.
With summer days well and truly upon us, we’re finding any excuse to indulge in some late summer lunching. If you have plans to get together with a group of friends, family or colleagues to while away the rest of the languid summer days, we suggest booking one of the below recommendations right away.
Bivacco Bar & Grill Few openings have been as anticipated as this latest Viaduct Harbour destination. Taking up residence where Headquarters once lived, Bivacco feels exactly like the kind of vibe we hope to retain this summer. Here, long lunching finds itself delightfully entangled with aperitivo hour fare, amid an atmosphere that emulates Totti’s in Sydney. Although the venue has a capacity for 300, we recommend booking ASAP — tables here are already a hot commodity. Reservations are available here. Bookings of 14 or more should call 09 801 6505to confirm.
Sìso Centring on a contemporary Mediterranean menu, Sìso’s intimate yet roomy interior and tempting sharing dishes are more than enough to entice you to the heart of Remuera. Able to accomodate larger parties too, Sìso’s elevated take on the laid-back local has made it an instant hit with Auckland’s most discerning diners. A night here promises great food and an even better atmosphere. Click here to book now, or email [email protected]for reservations of 12 or more.
Kol.
Kol Since opening its iconic Ponsonby hospitality address a few weeks ago, Kol — the latest destination from Sid and Chand Sahrawat of Cassia fame serves flavourful, contemporary Indian fare — with a smoky twist. If you haven’t had a chance to visit for a cocktail, snack, or more substantial feast, festive occasions are the perfect excuse. Kol’s upstairs private dining room upstairs is a chic, modern space that seats 20. Enquire here.
Origine Commercial Bay’s latest darling, the French-inspired bistro Origine, feels like the most fitting destination for celebratory summer affairs. Groups of up to 46 people can be entertained in Le Bar upstairs, the perfect place to send out the year on a delicious note. Parties of up to eight can book here,or email [email protected] for larger group reservations.
The Shed at Te Motu Find yourself in need of a celebratory destination on Waiheke Island? We’ll gladly suggest The Shed at Te Motu — a restaurant that grounds itself in understated deliciousness. With the vineyard famed for its premium flagship Te Motu blend, the food offering here is the perfect complement. And on the Island’s sunnier days, there are few places we’d rather find ourselves. For bookings larger than eight, call 09 372 6884 or email [email protected].
From left: Saint Alice; Soul Bar & Bistro.
Saint Alice For sun-soaked sea views and a delicious seafood-centric menu, look nowhere else than Saint Alice. Currently taking group bookings for the restaurant or private hide-away spot Little Alice, don’t miss your chance to be among the buzz of this Viaduct Harbour beauty this festive season. Enquire here for bookings over 10 people, or make a reservation here.
Soul Bar & Bistro Toast to the year (and wave it a relieved goodbye) the Viaduct Harbour stalwart’s coveted outdoor tables. Here, the destination is the epitome of a celebratory long lunch — where under the guidance of new Bar Manager Katie Cramphorn, celebrations are guaranteed to be lively. Bookings can be made here, or for 15 or more, call the restaurant on 09 356 7249.
Onemata Park Hyatt Auckland’s Onemata restaurant isn’t just the place for an exceptional meal, it also plays host to discerning private groups, be it for business or pleasure. Choose from a set menu to suit your crew of up to 12 people, including a selection of small, large and dessert dishes. Email [email protected] to book or call 09 366 2500.
Non Solo Pizza.
Non Solo Pizza Book into this Parnell institution for a well-deserved Italian-style long lunch. The ivy-covered courtyard is always a coveted spot for end-of-year soirées. Enquire here.
Jervois Steak House Our favourite steakhouse is taking bookings for up to eight people in its restaurant, and also has a private dining room upstairs suitable for twelve seated guests. Its famous menu and cosy environment, complete with rustic brick walls, ensure guests will settle in and feel right at home. Enquire here.
Amano With a passion for local produce with provenance and Italian-inspired plates, Amano is the place to be any time of day — and especially for a long lunch or festive dinner. Book for up to eight people online and choose between the restaurant’s quay or city sides, or contact the team via email for larger groups. Enquire here.
Mumbaiwala.
Mumbaiwala Here’s a delightful destination with plenty of space for festive cheer. Since bringing its elevated take on authentic Indian cuisine to Ponsonby earlier this year, we’ve been utterly impressed with the experience. Here, the function room can fit around 20 people seated, or up to 55. For parties larger than eight, email reservations are essential at [email protected].
MoVida Up above the harbour in Seafarers, MoVida will be serving its delectable menu all December long. Bookings have been a hot commodity since opening, but with enough notice, you’ll be able to celebrate the season under Chef Frank Camorra’s Midas touch. Choose from a selection of Ostro classics alongside seasonally inspired dishes. Book online here or for larger groups call 09 302 9888 or email [email protected].
Masu The outstanding inner-city Japanese restaurant offers a couple of different options if you’re after a group experience. The Chef’s Kotastu Table is more intimate, backdropped by the large Japanese Dragon created by calligraphy master artist Ushio Sekiguchi, suitable for eight to ten people. Otherwise, for up to 18, book the Masu Obi room. Enquire here.
Azabu Mission Bay.
Azabu Mission Bay For those who appreciate a sea breeze as they enjoy chilled wine and contemporary fusion fare, we recommend booking into Azabu Mission Bay as soon as possible, and asking for a spot in the Roku Gin Garden where there are always good times to be had. Enquire here.
Prego Paying a visit to Prego is delightful with any group size, whether in the main restaurant or seated at its iconic giant table, suitable for ten to 16 people. While away the hours at a long lunch or celebratory dinner and bask in Prego’s famed hospitality. Enquire here.
Pōni Commercial Bay’s resident all-day eatery makes sure to bring the fun alongside Asian fusion fare. Book in for up to six in the main restaurant space, or more in one of Pōni’s intimate areas. Book online here, or for group bookings of 10 or more, email [email protected].
From left: Kingi; The Blue Breeze Inn.
Kingi This Britomart belle has had some renovations in the last year for an even more comfortable dining experience. Not just taking bookings in the usual restaurant, Kingi also offers an inspired take on festive dining, curated to your needs. Enquire here.
The Tasting Shed Take a day trip to Kumeu, where The Tasting Shed will see you well taken care of for a group shindig. Book The Grotto, for lunch or dinner with up to 30 others, or The Cabana for its semi-open-air setting and enjoy great food with impeccable ambience. Enquire here.
The Blue Breeze Inn Visiting Blue Breeze is always a good time, and for groups of eight or more a set menu of the Inn’s most popular dishes takes any hassle out of ordering for the table — or you can order à la carte. If you’re after a more discreet dining experience we recommend booking the exclusive dining booth, secluded enough while still feeling like you’re part of the fun. Suitable for a minimum of eight and up to ten people. Email [email protected].
From left: Beau; Cotto
Beau Three Lamps wine bar Beau reserves most of its cosy space for walk-ins, but it does take bookings for six people or more in its upstairs private dining room. It also caters for group bookings in the sweet courtyard, which is primed for a sunny lunch or an al fresco evening meal under heaters. Enquire here.
Cotto While handmade pasta haven Cotto caters well to groups in its Karangahape Road space, thanks to a plethora of large tables, those after a more intimate experience would do well to book the restaurant’s upstairs dining room. With light streaming onto its cosy red walls and central city location, it’s the perfect space for a special event and is suitable for up to 50, seated. Enquire here.
Roses Dining Room Having officially opened last week to its first chef-in-residence dinner, and swiftly selling out the next, Roses is the intimate dining room we’re hoping to hold plenty of festive celebrations at all summer long. Designed to reflect a cosy dinner with your closest friends, this private 24-seater dining room on Karangahape Road can be hired with or without the Cooked Plates catering talents in the kitchen. Private reservations can be made here.
Last year, beloved Manuka honey brand Comvita joined forces with celebrated New Zealand fashion designer Claudia Li (known for dressing the likes of Michelle Obama, Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid). As part of her Fall 2022 show at New York Fashion Week last year (for which Comvita was the main sponsor), Li created a series of fashion-forward ‘Honey Bags’ made from the same paracords featured in her ready-to-wear, that were designed specifically to carry Comvita’s iconic jars of Manuka honey.
The collaboration was a successful meeting of minds, with both Comvita and Claudia Li connecting over their shared belief in the importance of heritage. After all, Comvita has been taking its premium-quality honey to the world since 1974 and continues to build on that rich history with spectacular products that put the wonders of pure New Zealand Manuka honey on a global scale. In a way, Li is on a similar path. Her eponymous label is not only a testament to her talent, but is a way for her to explore and express her own heritage, and share that with the international fashion community.
Left to right: Comvita x Claudia Li gift box, custom beekeper suits.
Now, the two brands are taking their partnership a step further, with Comvita unveiling a raft of new packaging in a custom print that was inspired by the beautiful pieces Li created for her aforementioned collection. Here, the designer developed a unique pattern that picked up on elements from Fall 2022, but brought something different to the table — resulting in a more sophisticated, modern twist on the classic floral motif.
Alongside the new packaging, Li also created beekeeper suits for Comvita, taking what are typically functional pieces and imbuing them with style and character (and creating the potential for more self-expression in the workplace).
An innovative collaboration and one that we didn’t know we needed in our lives (but certainly do), Comvita x Claudia Li is proving to be a creatively fruitful and interesting partnership, that puts both brands in a bold new light. We can’t wait to see what they do next. Print by Claudia Li. Beekeeper suits by Jenny Ruan. Campaign by Cross Cultural Club LTD.
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