Wondering how to spend your days this weekend? Why not pay Commercial Bay a visit? At this sprawling downtown precinct, cultural events, exceptional shopping and unparalleled dining experiences are all a mere hop, skip and jump from one another, meaning that you could start your day at a stunning exhibition before spending a few hours perusing through various luxury fashion boutiques (and maybe picking up some beautiful new winter cashmere) before finally ending your day at one of Auckland’s best restaurants. Here, we round up five very compelling reasons to pay Commercial Bay a visit right now.
Wax and Wane – Hamish Coleman
Experience Hamish Coleman’s new exhibition Wax and Wane at Season
Known to explore portraiture’s relationship with abstraction in his work, Wellington-based painter Hamish Coleman has taken over the beautiful Season gallery in Commercial Bay with an exhibition, Wax and Wane.Here, Coleman’s new works emphasise the interplay between brightness and obscurity, light and shadow and see the artist draw on traditions of painting and lens-based art to produce an utterly exquisite, almost haunting series that ponders the complex relationships between lived experience, memory, and imagination. Wax and Wane is on now until the 17th of June, and is one exhibition you don’t want to miss.
Elle & Riley
Shop Elle & Riley’s new collection
What better time of year than right now to pick up some new cashmere pieces to stand you in good stead for the chilly season ahead? Luckily, local purveyors of exceptional, luxurious cashmere Elle & Riley have an exquisite new collection that has recently landed in its Commercial Bay store, offering everything we need for padding out our winter wardrobes. From simple layering pieces to chunky knitwear and all of it in a colour palette of warm neutrals with a few soft pops of colour (a light blue here, a baby pink there), there really is something to suit everyone.
Doe Donuts
Drop into Doe Donuts’ cute new spot
If you haven’t already, pay Commercial Bay’s foodie hub, Harbour Eats, a visit this weekend and discover Doe Donuts’ very cute new outpost. Found at the entrance to Harbour Eats, this kiosk-style shop fits the Doe Donuts vision perfectly, with a hot-pink-and-white awning that feels almost Barbie-like, it’s cutesy, cool, and, most importantly, hard to miss.Here, you can indulge in all of Doe’s seriously delicious doughnut flavours, like its signature vanilla glazes and cinnamon sugars, as well as the far more decadent, ever-changing filled doughnuts, which are individually handmade daily and are available from lunchtime.
Origine
Book a table at Origine and take in the beauty of Auckland Harbour
Park up at one of the tables in Origine’s stunning dining room and indulge in a delicious lunch or dinner while taking in some of the best views of the Waitematā Harbour in the city. With a comprehensive menu of mouthwatering French fare, Origine truly has something for everyone. That said, we think that one should never pass up the chance to try something authentically French while dining here (after all, that is the core culinary philosophy at the heart of this restaurant). Origine’s Vol-au-vents starter is one such dish. It sees tasty little delicate pastry bites filled with fresh mushrooms and topped with juicy Burgundian snails, then finished off with the crème de la crème of French cheeses, an 18-month-aged Comté. Delicious.
Aotea
Pick up some premium mānuka honey at Aotea
While the immune-boosting and anti-bacterial benefits of high-quality mānuka honey are widely known, not all iterations are created equal. One of our favourite places at which to stock up on this winter essential is Aotea, with a beautiful shop in Commercial Bay that sells jars of its 125+, 300+ and 500+ MGO mānuka honey, all of which has been meticulously cultivated and left raw and untreated (as nature intended) so that we can reap the full benefits. Such fans are we of this product, in fact, that we recently included Aotea’s mānuka honey as one of our crucial products for staying healthy through winter. As a bonus, this season’s batch of honey can be shopped with a 20% discount at Aotea’s concept store and online.
If you are someone who has to wear glasses, whether all the time or just for work or reading, finding the right frames that are as comfortable (for prolonged wear) as they are chic and timeless (so as to suit every outfit) can be difficult. Which is why we have curated a shoppable edit below of some of our favourites. From subtle wire frames to standout, chunky styles, and even (for those who want something different) those with lightly-tinter lenses, here are all the optical glasses that make having four eyes much better than two.
Christian Dior Oversized round frame optical glasses from Net-a-Porter
No pancake will compare once you’ve sampled these seriously fluffy souffle pancakes. Also known as ‘fuwa fuwa’ (meaning fluffy fluffy in Japanese) pancakes, these jiggly creations certainly live up to their name. Light and airy in both looks and taste, you’ll be on cloud nine after adding these souffle pancakes to your recipe rotation.
1 cup milk 1 tbsp white vinegar 1 cup flour 1/4 cup white sugar 2 tsp baking powder 2 large eggs, separated 1/4 tsp vanilla extract 1 tbsp Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie is the best) 1 tbsp butter
Method:
1. Combine milk and vinegar in a large bowl. Allow to sit while the milk sours — about 5 minutes. 2. Separately, sift flour, sugar and baking powder in a separate bowl and set aside. 3. Beat egg whites with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. 4. Add egg yolks and vanilla to the soured milk, mix well and pour into the centre of the flour mixture. Use a whisk to combine all ingredients. 5. Add mayonnaise and stir until there are no lumps. Finally, fold in egg whites. 6. Heat pan over medium-low heat and melt butter. Grease round moulds, and place onto pan. Fill halfway with batter. 7. Cook for 4-6 minutes, until firm on top and flip pancake and mould together. Cook for another 4-6 minutes. 8. Serve with whipped cream and maple syrup.
Ski season is baring down upon us far more swiftly than we ever imagined, with our southern slopes poised to open to the masses in the coming weeks. Regardless if you fancy yourself somewhat of a gun on the runs or will happily admit there’s likely room for improvement, most of us find common ground in being woefully out of touch with our snow-centric fitness. Rather than calling it a day and prematurely making tracks to après or deigning ourselves to suffering (and endless saunas) afterwards, we sought out some of the easiest things one can do to get fit for the looming ski season, fast.
Isometric Holds
These moves, like planks, lunges and wall sits, involve holding a position without changing the length of your muscles, making them a game-changer for your snow skills. With the ability to develop stability in the positions required for skiing, isometric exercises are a necessary evil. If you’re new to stability work, it’s recommended that you add these into your routine for at least two months before hitting the slopes.
However, if you’re already somewhat active, you’ll get away with adding them in now, and finding creative ways to integrate them into your daily routine can be the perfect solution. For example, try holding a squat while brushing your teeth or a plank while waiting for the kettle to boil. Trust us; you’ll be feeling stable and strong much faster than anticipated.
Cycling & Spin Classes
Cycling is the perfect crossover sport that’ll have you hitting the slopes with more confidence (and endurance). Not only does it build lower body strength, but it’s also low impact and fantastic for improving cardiovascular fitness. Whether you’re going for a long-distance ride or a quick sprint, this workout is sure to give you the challenge you need to keep up with the kids.
And, as an added bonus, a morning bike ride can help reset your circadian rhythm and lead to better sleep. Because let’s face it, a well-rested body and mind are essential before tackling those trickier runs. So, strap on your helmet and get pedalling. Your ski trip will thank you.
Diet
When last-minute prepping for your winter south, don’t fret about making drastic dietary changes. Instead, incorporate small, positive habits that will make a world of difference. Boosting your protein intake can help repair and build muscle, while feasting on a rainbow of fruits and veggies guarantees your body’s needs for essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are met. Decreasing refined sugar intake can also help with inflammation and recovery time. Remember, it’s all about addition, not restriction.
Stretching
In this realm, injury prevention is key. Regular stretching can help prevent injury and correct any postural imbalances in the body before hitting the slopes. To elevate the intensity, fascial stretch therapy sessions are available to release tension and balance out intense physical training. Alternatively, to add a touch of relaxation, yoga can incorporate both types of stretching and offer some much-needed calm before hitting the slopes. After a long day on the mountain, stretch classes that include myofascial release, postural reset, and foam rolling can help you feel refreshed and reset. But then again, a glass of wine should do that too.
It is a funny thing to ask how one brand can rise to the top of every ‘It’ girl’s wish list over others. Or, to try and decipher why one particular pair of straight, blue, high-rise jeans are more sought-after than others of a similar variety. There’s really no answer, other than the fact that certain brands have the ‘X Factor’ — something that exists as much for labels as it does for the status of those wearing them. One brand that exemplifies this idea is Khaite and now, thanks to Muse, it’s never been easier for us to get our hands on a piece from its covetable collections.
Launched in New York in 2016 by Creative Director Catherine Holstein, Khaite made a swift and significant impact for the ways in which its collections played with contrast, bringing different elements into superb harmony and creating looks that felt considered, versatile and above all, chic. Khaite marries classic cuts with contemporary details and feminine ideas with masculine shapes. It is strength with softness, structure with fluidity, and sensuality with ease. In fact, it has become one of the most sought-after labels to come out of New York in the last decade, its purposeful and delicate design language delivering ‘X-Factor’ in spades, and even seeing some of its pieces (read: Katie Holmes’ iconic knitted bra) garner hefty wait-lists.
And while our appreciation for Khaite has largely grown from wistfully watching the brand from afar, its cult-favourite pieces are now, for the very first time, available to buy in New Zealand — exclusively from Muse.
“We are so excited about this label,” Olivia Vincent Healy, Director of Muse, tells me, “Khaite’s timeless collections are just what we want to wear every day, the silhouettes are modern but are so easy to move in, from perfect denim to immaculate tailoring.” Marking Khaite’s debut in this market, its induction into Muse’s impressive stable of luxury brands is a boon for those who appreciate the value of timeless design and high-quality pieces.
As far as what to expect from this highly-anticipated first drop, Olivia explains that the line-up will include a curation of Khaite’s iconic staples, mixed with a few showstopping accessories and shoes we will want to wear all winter. “The Danielle jean is a style I have had for years,” she explains, “and it is so flattering and so comfortable, with a chic black and gold button that offers a more elevated look when a shirt or sweatshirt is tucked in.” Other notable additions include the eye-popping Olivia bag in bright red, and the Davis boots — a recurring style favoured by fashion’s cognoscenti.
“Not only is Khaite such a good base label for our customers to layer with and style to their own individual tastes,” Olivia continues, “but the accessories work perfectly when paired with our other gorgeous brands.” Ultimately, Khaite’s arrival into the New Zealand market is an indication of our ever-maturing tastes. Slowly but surely, local purveyors of luxury fashion (a cohort of which Vincent and Muse are indisputably at the forefront) are answering our desire for investment pieces that are not only sleek and wearable, but are premium quality, and that allow us to build truly timeless wardrobes that last well beyond a single season.
Here, we round up our picks from the Khaite collection that has just landed at Muse. (We suggest getting in fast if you want to snap up a piece for yourself.)
Seeking to expand its unique offering, popular Ponsonby restaurant Khu Khu has opened a brand new space in Milford, bringing its flavoursome style of vegan Thai food to the North Shore.
The original Khu Khu, on Ponsonby Road, was born from the experiences of Owner Michael Khuwattanasenee, who was inspired to open a vegan restaurant after undertaking a 30-Day Challenge. Over that time, he had struggled to find plant-based options when dining out, particularly at Asian eateries, given their proclivity for meat and for subtle animal-based ingredients like fish and oyster sauces. Khuwattanasenee, who is Thai, decided to take matters into his own hands. He assembled a team of Thai chefs who share his dietary values and together, they developed innovative, plant-based food that remains true to Thai flavours, made with only fresh, vegan ingredients. Unsurprisingly, it was quickly popular, and now, Khuwattanasenee has opened the doors to a second outpost that is set to charm Milford locals in the same way.
The menu at the new spot still adheres to Khuwattanasenee’s ‘quality over quantity’ mantra, and heroes a number of mouthwatering Thai dishes, from small spring rolls made with kumara glass noodles and a sweet carrot sauce to Thai curries, a delicious Pad Thai made with tempeh, and even a mind-blowing vegan ‘duck’ Drunken Noodles (that really has to be tasted to be believed).
While most of these dishes can also be found at the Ponsonby restaurant, there are newcomers on the menu at Milford, too. A Massaman Curry with tender vegan ‘beef’ chunks sits alongside a zesty Thai Beef Salad with lemongrass ‘beef’ chunks and fresh red onion and cucumber. Also, on the dessert menu, a moreish Pandan Cheesecake is set to satiate any sweet tooth, comprising a salty and sweet coconut-vanilla cake with a butter-cookie base and a caramel sauce, alongside a new Raspberry Panna Cotta, where a coconut-based panna cotta is topped with fresh berry and cookie crumb.
The Khu Khu Milford space is intimate and elegant, with a simple palette and contemporary fixtures. It is modern, and welcoming and speaks to the forward-looking, inclusive philosophy of its owner. So, whether you’ve already dined at (and loved) Khu Khu Ponsonby or are simply a Milford local, looking to try something new, Khu Khu’s new outpost is now open and taking bookings. From its flavourful food that offers something completely different to its great, laid-back vibe, this new spot is a must-try in our books.
Opening Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday — 5pm until 9pm Friday & Saturday, 5pm until 10pm
Paired with a line-up of looks from the newest collections, a selection of exquisite Van Cleef & Arpels jewels is the hero of our Winter Issue fashion editorial. Making an elegant statement for the season ahead, these pieces serve as a reminder of the power of jewellery to elevate any kind of look, and of its timeless appeal. From Van Cleef & Arpels’ Frivole designs to its jaw-dropping Palmyre necklace to its iconic Alhambra, this shoot is a celebration of the exquisite pieces that have long made Van Cleef & Arpels such an iconic Maison.
Britomart, the nine-block precinct that straddles the space between downtown and the waterfront, is one of Auckland’s most enviable dining areas. Tempting us with a formidable range of eateries, you can be certain you’ll scratch any culinary itch with its range of coffee shops, lunch spots, tasty bakeries, bustling brasseries, fine dining establishments, and cool bars. From breakfast bites to sophisticated cocktails (and just about everything in-between) here is where you should be eating and drinking in Britomart.
Morning & Daytime
The Store
The Store A longstanding favourite of the Britomart crowd, The Store boasts a two-fold offering that has made it as much a go-to for quick takeaway options as it is for longer, more leisurely lunches. The Takeaway side offers coffee, juices, smoothies, sandwiches, soups, salads and more for those seeking an easy, transportable meal; while The Diner side allows punters to enjoy an al fresco meal in a sun-drenched courtyard, with a casual, European-inspired menu that is fresh and flavoursome.
Daily Bread
Daily Bread Now with a number of locations around Auckland, Daily Bread has cultivated a reputation for delivering some of the tastiest baked treats this city has to offer — think expertly-made loaves of sourdough, satiating sandwiches, flaky croissants and more — and its centrally-located Britomart bakery (which forms phase one of the bakery’s exciting evolution) is the perfect place for a morning cuppa and a quick bite.
La Petite Fourchette Bringing a taste of France to Britomart, this cute spot boasts an all-day breakfast menu where brunch dishes are given a delightfully French twist. (Think daily omelettes, Pain Perdu Brioché — a decadent French toast — and Galette de Pomme Terre — potato and herb hash served with a choice of avocado, bacon or salmon.) La Petite Fourchette also offers a range of delicious patisserie and savoury treats to-go.
Yeah Bowl
Yeah Bowl If it’s an easy, healthy lunch you’re after, look no further than the Britomart chapter of Yeah Bowl. Serving a range of poke bowls made with fresh, organic ingredients and free-range meats, this colourful, simple stop-in is on a mission to reimagine the idea of traditional ‘fast food.’
Better Burger Sometimes, a good old-fashioned burger and shake is just what you feel like, and this Britomart spot delivers every time. With a simple menu that covers the traditional cheeseburger, a chicken burger, a mushroom burger and fries (all able to be made ‘epic’ with a mix of mustard, cheese, onion and ‘secret sauce’) alongside free-range fried chicken and shakes that are some of the best we’ve ever had, Better Burger is perfect if you’re in the mood for something a little naughty for your lunch.
Oji Sushi
Oji Sushi Beloved by the lunchtime crowd for its fresh sushi, satiating bowls and tasty sandos and dumplings, Oji is a downtown favourite, with outposts in Commercial Bay and Britomart. Having set itself apart from Auckland’s other sushi spots for its focus on locally-sourced ingredients, sustainable practices and a straightforward, no-fuss approach, Oji is the perfect place to pop into for an easy, healthy and downright delicious lunch, particularly for those who work in the city.
Day to Night
Amano
Amano Undoubtedly one of Auckland’s most popular eateries, Amano is open from early in the morning, when it serves elevated à la carte breakfast (and a selection of breakfast cocktails to boot), until well into the afternoon and evening, when it is consistently humming with hungry punters. For lunch and dinner, Amano offers a delicious Italian-inspired menu that highlights seasonal, local produce (the pasta dishes are a particular highlight) and transforms from a light-filled eatery into an elegant restaurant. Attached to Amano’s expansive dining room is its dedicated bakery, where coffee, freshly-pressed juices, pastries, sandwiches, salads and more are made on-site and available for anyone seeking a simple takeaway.
Ortolana With a name that means ‘market gardener’ in Italian, it’s hardly surprising that Ortolana has built its reputation on serving delicious, Italian-inspired fare that showcases seasonal produce from local growers. Open from early in the morning until late into the night, this intimate, cosy spot is suitable for any situation — with a range of tasty breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Recently, we’ve been loving the smashed eggs with chive and prosciutto piadina and the blue cheese gnudi with mushroom, truffle and pangrattato — but expect menu items to change according to seasonal availability.
Alma
Alma Heroing Andalusian flavours in its menu that marries Spanish culinary ideas with fresh New Zealand ingredients, Alma is a one of the tastiest places to post up for a delectable lunch or to book into for an intimate dinner. Serving small, tapas-style plates designed to share, this eatery has become one of our favourites for its unique food, relaxed atmosphere and impressive wine and gin list. (Pro tip: the Tomato Martini is a showstopper.)
The Brit Perfect for a casual lunch with friends or an after-work drink, The Brit is Britomart’s answer to the classic gastropub, serving a raft of elevated pub fare and satiating share dishes. With a laid-back vibe that ramps up with screenings of rugby games and live music events, The Brit is not only an ideal place to gather with mates but is also great for dropping into with the little ones in tow.
Kingi
Kingi From the guys behind Orphans Kitchen, Kingi offers a menu that celebrates our kaimoana, showcasing a range of locally-sourced, sustainable seafood that draws attention to New Zealand’s unique environment. Located on the ground floor of Britomart’s historic Masonic building (right next door to The Hotel Britomart) and open throughout the day, Kingi is great to drop into for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or even a quick coffee or cocktail.
Miann If it’s a sweet treat you’re after, look no further than Miann. Serving up a range of decadent pastries, savouries, petit gateaux, macarons, gelato and housemade chocolates (all of which are made from ethically-sourced Cacao at Miann’s dedicated Morningside factory), and open from 7am until late into the night, this is the ideal pitstop for an afternoon pick-me-up or a post-dinner dessert.
Nightime
MoVida
MoVida From its Izzard-designed interiors to its cult-followed food offering, MoVida in Britomart is the New Zealand chapter of Melbourne’s iconic, Hosier Lane stalwart that was opened by Frank Camorra in 2003. Serving a menu of delicious tapas-style dishes alongside mouthwatering mains and some seriously moreish desserts to boot, this Britomart favourite has fast become our go-to for special occasions, pre-show dinners and really any night that we feel like treating ourselves. If you’re yet to pay this place a visit, take this as your sign to book a table STAT.
Mr Morris Mr Morris made a serious splash when it landed in Britomart a few years ago, and for very good reason. Widely praised for its food that showcases local, sustainable and seasonal produce in dishes that present as a modern mash-up of New Zealand and Pasifika cuisine, this impressive restaurant is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a calm environment and a culinary experience.
Ghost Street
Ghost Street Ghost Street was conceived by the same culinary minds behind Perch (formerly Xuxu Dumpling Bar), Cafe Hanoi and the sorely-missed Saan, and quickly became one of the hottest dining spots in the area. Set in what used to be the Basement of 1885, the restaurant is dimly lit and atmospheric, designed to reimagine the bustling, hole-in-the-wall eateries of Beijing’s famous food street. This idea carries onto the menu too, where punchy, seasonal dishes (inspired by a wide cross-section of Chinese cuisine) run the gamut of flavours from tart and savoury to Sichuan and spice.
Perch What used to be Xuxu Dumpling Bar is now Perch, taking everything that we loved about the former and elevating it to the next level. The fit-out is an update of the existing Xuxu which, while retaining its intimate vibe, has been opened up with an extended exterior, inviting diners (or those seeking a tasty tipple) to enjoy the Downtown streetscape. The menu heroes traditional Chinese dumplings and spring rolls, with the focus on offering a range of unique and mouthwatering flavours that draw from a variety of East Asian cuisines, harnessing ingredients like kimchi, Sichuan pepper and XO Sauce. A flavoursome, cosy drop in or the perfect place to park up with friends for a casual dinner.
Ebisu
Ebisu You’ll find some of the city’s best Japanese fare at this Britomart stalwart, where izakaya-style dining is given a sophisticated twist. Settle into Ebisu’s moody, low-lit dining room and enjoy a selection of delicious plates to share, from sushi and sashimi to dumplings, tempura and larger dishes like seared duck breast and Kagoshima Black wagyu scotch. Although open for lunch service as well, nothing beats an intimate dinner here with friends or family.
Cafe Hanoi Following its refurbishment and relocation some years ago, Cafe Hanoi continues to be one of Britomart’s most popular eateries. From its divine menu that takes traditional Vietnamese flavours and gives them a modern twist to its lively atmosphere that promises a fun, buzzing dining experience, it’s clear to see why this downtown hotspot has remained on our radar for so long.
Drinks
Left: Caretaker Right: Bar Non Solo
Bar Non Solo Located in the refurbished space that previously housed The Deck at Ostro, Bar Non Solo is the more convivial sister of Parnell stalwart, Non Solo Pizza, and has dialled up the vibe of its suburban counterpart to offer a party-ready space that’s perfect for after-work drinks, pre-dinner snacks and lively nightcaps. The drinks list focuses on Italian cocktails (including negroni on tap), spritzes, digestifs and wine, while Savor Group Executive Chef Chris Rendell has reinvented the menu to have more of a small-plates focus. Find pasta, antipasti and salumi among the various sharing dishes, as well as the eatery’s famous pizza (an impressive pizza oven has been installed). The perfect place to start, or end, any night.
Caretaker Designed after a New-York style speakeasy, Caretaker is a cocktail lounge inspired by the golden era of bartending. Beloved for its dimly-lit, underground vibe and its meticulous cocktails (punters can choose from an extensive menu or simply ‘trust the bartender’ to whip up a delicious concoction) this popular bar will transport you to another world.
There’s little doubt that winter is truly upon us; the nights are long, and in a bid not to spend them at home in front of the television, we’ve been filling our calendars with all sorts of enticing events. From exhibition openings to film festivals and outrageous cabaret experiences, our June Culture Guide comprises all the events drawing us out of the house this season.
With showstopping and slightly risque acts and acrobatics, this international troupe will launch the world premiere of Circa’s Peepshow (Club Remix) on the Auckland stage this month. The performance itself is razor-sharp and funny, delivered by an unspeakably skilled cast, all set to the soundtrack of a live DJ. Should you consider yourself a fan of the circus, live music, or perhaps a tasteful striptease, you’ll find this absolutely brilliant. Thursday, 29th June — Saturday, 1st July, The Civic
No stranger to Parnell Gallery, local artist Tim Jones will this month present his next collection, Voyage. Speaking to the notion of journeys, be they physical or spiritual, it is thought that there is always the opportunity to garner a new way of understanding. This series of expressionist works evoke feelings of spaces and travels past — the perfect opportunity to add a poignant new piece to your collection perhaps. Tuesday, 22nd June — Tuesday, 4th July, Parnell Gallery
In a bid to alleviate tensions felt around discussing personal matters with strangers, local mental health collective Everyday Solitude has imagined a fun new card game that encourages people to start talking. The pop-up acts as a filming opportunity to promote the game, meaning you will be among the first to try it, and sponsored by Supreme Coffee and Daily Bread, you’re sure to be well nourished too. 10am — 12pm, Saturday, 10th June, Pollen Studios
This month the L’OR French Film Festival Aotearoa returns with the crème de la crème of French cinema. Nicolas Bedos’ Masquerade, a Riviera-set mystery featuring France’s most recognisable leading men, opens the festival, alongside four other Cannes films. With a great lineup of comedies and dramas, the festival promises to be a tour de cinema that is an unmissable entry in this month’s culture guide. Auckland dates have already begun with an impressive three-week romp of cinematic action. Discover the full programme and tickets here. Wednesday, 31st May — Wednesday, 21st June, various locations
With the New Zealand Philharmonic Orchestra and some of our nation’s final vocal artists in tow, the sound of the late composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim will come to life for one night only. Widely regarded as one of the greatest influences on Broadway, you’ll experience some of the greatest musical numbers unlike ever before. Thursday, 22nd June, The Civic
Those with a penchant for fine ceramics would do well to visit Sanderson Contemporary Art this month, as the group exhibition States of Flow takes place in the second gallery. Featuring six contemporary artists, it is a collective yet varied response to the term ‘flow state’. Tuesday, 6th June — Sunday, 2nd July, Sanderson Contemporary Art
Taking place in the early days of July, we’ve snuck this entry into our culture guide as your reminder to book tickets asap for this unmissable experience. Transporting the phenomenal talents of Cirque Du Soleil onto the ice, Crystal comprises the troupe’s signature surrealist shows with an entirely new challenge to work with. Tuesday, 4th July — Friday, 9th July, Spark Arena
An entirely new exhibition arrives at Auckland’s War Memorial Museum this month, transporting visitors back to Egypt in a time when Pharaohs walked the earth. A fascinating glimpse at this time in history, where there are so many questions still left unanswered (how exactly did the pyramids get there), the exhibition showcases more than original artefacts, scale models, and interactive displays offering a glimpse into what life was like 5,000 years ago on the banks of the majestic River Nile. Thursday, 15th June — Sunday, 12th November, Auckland War Memorial Museum
Guest curated by Jane Devery, this is the first major survey exhibition of the artist’s work to be held on home soil. It includes recent works that reflect Brent Harris’ reconnection with New Zealand as well as paintings and prints drawn from his most important series of works dating from the late 1980s to the present. Saturday, 6th May — Sunday, 17th September, Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tāmaki
Rising comedy star Taylor Tomlinson is bringing her sharp wit and acclaimed Netflix special to New Zealand for the very first time. Having earned a reputation as one of the most talented and incisive comedians of her generation, Tomlinson has been praised for her clever writing and biting humour. Don’t miss your chance to see this “whip-smart and spectacularly cynical” performer live on stage. Friday, 30th June, Auckland Town Hall
Experience the poetic and powerful masterpiece that is Shakespeare’s King Lear, brought to life by renowned New Zealand actor and Shakespeare expert Michael Hurst. The play explores the complexities of human nature through the story of an ageing king poised to abdicate his crown and confront his identity. Hurst’s bold and contemporary production, staged in the ASB Waterfront Theatre, promises to be a blazing performance that will leave audiences humbled and moved. Tuesday, 13th of June until Sunday, 1st July, ASB Waterfront Theatre
Velvety-voiced Canadian crooner Michael Bublé is set to grace the stage of Spark Arena for an unforgettable evening of chart-topping hits and innovative renditions of his beloved classics. Buble’s charismatic presence and open-hearted banter are sure to leave audiences feeling good and longing for more of his multi-platinum-selling magic. An unmissable addition to this month’s culture guide, don’t pass up your chance to experience one of the most extraordinary performers of our time. Sunday, 25th June, Spark Arena
Experience the gripping world of Suzie Miller’s Laurence Olivier Award-winning play, Prima Facie. The one-woman play stars Acushla-Tara Kupe, who is set to deliver a mesmerizing performance as Tessa Ensler, a ruthless criminal defence barrister whose faith in the law is shattered. Directed by Paul Gittins, this production delves into the dark complexities of justice in an unforgettable exploration of power, success, and the flaws within our legal system. With its thought-provoking narrative, this one-woman masterpiece will leave a lasting impact on audiences at the Herald Theatre, opening on Wednesday the 21st of June and running until Sunday the 9th of July.
Celebrating the rich cultural fabric that makes up our city, this month Auckland will play host to the Pacific Dance NZ Festival — a lively programme of our most talented indigenous dancers. Spanning two weeks, the festival embraces dance in all its forms with a series of showcases, live performances and workshops and is set to be a highlight of this month’s culture guide. Thursday, 1st June — Friday, 16th June, various locations
While this year’s Doc Edge Film Festival’s Auckland in-person dates have already been and gone (it was a swift one), films will still be screening virtually nationwide until Sunday the 9th of July. Now in its 18th year, the festival features 71 impressive films from around the world, based on the intentions of Being Oneself, Crime & Conspiracy, Fighting Spirit and Making An Impact. Wednesday, 24th May — Sunday, 9th July, online
Highlighting Vietnamese song and music, Memories is an enchanting affair that brings together four vocalists and two comedians for a celebration of culture in all its forms. As it is held at the luxurious SkyCity Theatre, we’d suggest booking dinner at one of the destination’s delicious restaurants and really making an evening of it. Friday, 9th June, SkyCity Theatre
Bringing the raucous musical to The Civic’s stage, here Cyndi Lauper’s score comes to life. Based on true events, this huge-hearted hit tells the story of two people with nothing in common with a hilarious and endearing series of twists and turns. Thursday, 25th May — Saturday, 17th Jun, The Civic
Responsible for some of our nation’s most beloved classic hits, any Dire Straits tour is always worthy of our culture guide. This iteration sees the band revisiting their third album, Making Movies, which led to the classic ‘Tunnel of Love’. With one show only, this shouldn’t be missed. Saturday, 10th June, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre
With the cold weather descending, here is a selection of products we recommend for getting you through the coming months — from enriching body butter to essential face cream and even a few things to keep your immune system strong, too.
BePure One Multivitamin
Winter is the perfect time to fortify your body with the ultimate multivitamin, BePure One. With more than 50 bioavailable ingredients, this high-strength supplement is designed to nourish your body from the inside out, providing essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellness. Its scientifically-backed formulation supports energy and vitality, immunity, mental clarity, and even hair, skin and nail health, making it a must-have for the colder months ahead.
Tronque Firming Body Butter
Packed with velvety shea, cacao and mango butters, Tronque’s skin soufflé will deeply nourish and protect your skin from dryness and damage, while biotech ceramides, Mamaku, niacinamide, squalane, hyaluronic acid and glycerine revitalise and calm dry, damaged areas, lending a smooth, moisturised skin for winter.
Byredo Suede Hand Cream
This winter essential will keep your hands and nails nourished and soft. With notes of bergamot, lily of the valley and amber, this delicate fragrance evokes the freshness of spring, making it the perfect escape from the colder months. Its lightweight yet hydrating formula is ideal for essential everyday hydration.
Emma Lewisham Supernatural Face Crème Riche
The only product we turn to when our skin needs some extra love (and hydration), Emma Lewisham’s cult-favourite, velvet-like Supernatural cream is packed with the latest high-performing ingredients and has been scientifically proven to regenerate collagen at a cellular level. Not only does it deeply moisturise, but its powerful, natural ingredients will improve the look of fine lines while enhancing skin clarity, glow and suppleness.
Kaēa The Vitaliser Multi-Omega Face Oil
Harnessing the power of botanical ingredients that include free-radical defending, collagen-boosting superfruits, vitamins A & E and essential fatty acids, this New Zealand-made omega-charged face oil will deliver an instant (and lasting) boost to the skin. Made from nature’s finest 26+ cell-nourishing, skin-renewing botanicals, The Vitaliser will protect and regenerate, prevent trans-epidermal water loss and strengthen cell integrity. An essential in any seasonal skincare routine.
Aotea Mānuka Honey 500+ MGO
A winter essential, everyone should have a pot of this anti-microbial mānuka honey on their shelf, for enjoying on toast, adding to tea or simply taking by the spoonful when in need of an immune boost. All of Aotea’s honey is sustainably sourced and packed straight from the hives just as nature intended — raw and unpasteurised.
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