Need some interior inspo? We take you inside an exquisite Notting Hill townhouse by Banda Design

Perfectly positioned within the charming enclave of London’s Notting Hill, a new architectural marvel has been unveiled, redefining the notion of refined urban living. Crafted by the visionary team at Banda Design, this exquisite townhouse on Leinster Square seamlessly blends the past with the present, drawing inspiration from the natural world to create a sanctuary of unparalleled elegance and sophistication. Here, we take you inside.

There is a sense of serenity that has been embedded into the design of this home, from the earthy, calm colour palette to the foundations of period features, and the soft, natural light that has been introduced in every space. Here, Banda has managed to create what feels like a modern family home with an aesthetic that is still deeply historic. Not an easy balance to strike.

The living space sets the tone for the rest of the home. A testament to Banda’s commitment to artistry and comfort, this room boasts a striking Aubusson verdure tapestry, dating back to the late 17th Century, alongside bespoke furnishings that effortlessly marry old-world charm with contemporary allure. Other sculptural furniture (including a 1960’s Äôs Swedish high back armchair, sourced from The Loods, and a rustic Joseph Berry dark timber coffee table), illuminated by the warm glow of a Murano glass chandelier, gives the space a sense of understated luxury and a timeless appeal.

In the kitchen, this idea continues, where intricate cornicing and a leaf-moulded ceiling rose (on which hangs a Beetle Chandelier in antique brass from Gallery L7) are juxtaposed against a modern marble island and Charles Dudouyt oak dining chairs from the 1950s, while a reupholstered mid-century Scandinavian daybed stands as a welcoming window seat. It’s a piece of architectural theatre set firmly within the context of contemporary design, creating a space that is as functional as it is visually captivating.

Upstairs, the master bedroom is a study in tranquility, with a bespoke headboard upholstered in Watts of Westminster Cumulus fabric and linen bedcovers adding to the ambience. A wrought iron stool and sculptural silk piece by Ursula Nistrup and Lotte Henriksen complete the space, offering an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Custom headboards and oak flutter side tables stand in the other bedrooms, too, where no detail has been left to chance. Even a child’s bedroom is a charming piece of design, adorned with a bed canopy in Alice Palmer’s embroidered lemon fabric with matching lemon box pleat lampshade.

Downstairs, the lower ground floor beckons with spaces designed for entertaining and relaxation. A bespoke bar and round travertine table provide the perfect setting for after-dinner drinks, while a gym flooded with natural light and finished in natural materials like timber, linen and leather offers an exceptional space for wellness and rejuvenation.

Exuding the kind of sophisticated, thoughtful, pared-back and ultimately liveable design for which Banda Design has become so known, this London townhouse is an exquisite example of how modern design is enhanced by honouring the history of a space. It’s hardly surprising that such a seamless home has come from the Banda team, a design office that its owner, Edo Mapelli Mozzi, has (in just 15 years) taken from a niche London development office to a burgeoning global property practice, with projects spanning the world.

Get The Look


Audo Copenhagen
Candle Holder from Dawson & Co.
Moroso Getlucky Armchair from Matisse
Alinea Angelo Coffee Table from Studio Italia
Giorgetti Rea Bed from ECC
Timothy Oulton Puzo Sconce from Dawson & Co.
Soho Home Copper Mirror from Design Central
Stories of Italy Karkade Flute Set from Faradays
Weave Alberto Cushion from Dawson & Co.
Soho Home Oxley Coffee Table from Design Central
Soho Home Ina Wall Light from Design Central
Dax Candleholder from Father Rabbit
Moooi Aldoram Sofa from ECC
Minotti Linha Studio Desk from ECC
Casamania La-Dina Chair from Matisse
Sambonet Elite Wine Cooler from The Studio of Tableware
PENT Luxury Boxing Gloves from Ssense
Mater Accent Side Table from ECC
Noblesse Old Fashion Tumbler Set from The Studio of Tableware
Pablo Picasso the Impossible Collection from Ligne Roset

Design

Modern Marvels: The Ninja XXXL FlexDrawer Air Fryer is the versatile kitchen appliance you need to know
Imbuing our homes with the essence of Soho House’s vibrant venues, Soho Home sets a new benchmark for living well
New & Noteworthy: This is everything on our radar this week

Make the most of fresh summer flavours with this vibrant, umami ceviche recipe

A classic from kitchen whizz Liv Glazebrook of Kitchen of Treats, this fresh and succulent ceviche recipe is filled to the brim with umami flavours, pops of citrus, vibrant herbs and a touch of spice. Make the most of the few summer weeks we have left by whipping up a plate of this mouthwatering dish for your next get-together. It’s sure to impress.

Kitchen of Treats Ceviche Recipe


Ingredients

300g fish (trevally or kingfish recommended)

For the dressing:
65ml water
65ml white vinegar
65g sugar
65ml fish sauce
2 Tbsp lime/lemon juice
1 Tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated

To finish:
1 ripe avocado, halved & sliced lengthways
1 long red chilli, finely sliced
Mint leaves, thinly chopped
Coriander, thinly chopped
Crispy shallots

Method

1. Combine all dressing ingredients in a bowl and whisk until sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
2. Place the sliced avocado on the base of the medium plate and top with fish, sliced sashimi-style and evenly spaced. Generously spoon dressing over the fish.
3. Sprinkle with thinly sliced chilli, mint leaves and coriander. Finish with crispy fried shallots.

Gastronomy

Whitebait season is here, and this is the perfect spot to get your fix
Have you heard? Alla Prossima is the new Italian eatery in the city you need to know
Heading to the opera this month? We have everywhere to eat, drink and celebrate around the event

Meet The Emerald — a lush, new restaurant and bar in Epsom you need to try

Set in an iconic building that dates back to the 1950s, a new restaurant and bar has landed in the heart of Epsom and it should definitely be on your radar. Meet The Emerald, owned and operated by Darren Tolley (a hospitality veteran with over 15 years in the industry and multiple venues under his belt) this welcoming, lush and sophisticated new dining destination marries timeless elegance with sophisticated flair, and offers a menu of delicious, modern-bistro fare to boot.

Inside, diners are immediately enveloped in a unique world. Loosely inspired by the idea of a greenhouse, The Emerald was designed by the experts at CTRL Space and boasts towering ceilings painted in a lush, verdant hue and expansive windows that flood the space with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere that is both spacious and intimate. Here, the carefully curated decor is almost reminiscent of a bygone era of glamour and refinement, where Art Deco charm meets sleek, contemporary details. “Think Hong Kong’s Raffles Hotel meets Islington local,” Tolley explains. “It is just the most beautiful space to be in, even photos do do it justice… it’s welcoming, light and airy and at night it takes a beautiful turn as the sun sets on the inside bar and the beautiful warm feature lights take over.”

At the helm in The Emerald’s kitchen is Executive Chef Ross Birch, a master of his craft with decades of experience and close to 10 years working with Tolley at his various venues. His innovative, modern bistro menu showcases the finest in locally-sourced ingredients and reimagines classic dishes with modern twists. Small options include salmon ceviche served with a mix of blood orange, soused fennel, hazelnut and sloe gin, salt n pepper crusted prawns and a ‘hand cut’ steak tartar with fried quail egg, truffled chips, shallot, pickles & beef fat mayo. While those seeking something more substantial should look to dishes like the classic steak frites, with grass-fed Lansdowne beef, pan juices, vine tomato and marmite hollandaise, or the torched kahawai fillet, green lip mussels, green marsala, potato and cucumber. On the sweet side of things, desserts like the Emerald eat ‘n mess, with meringue, macerated summer fruits and elderflower, or the chocolate delice with salted caramel, hazelnuts and coconut yoghurt are sure to satiate any cravings.

Beyond its tasty food, The Emerald is a vibrant social hub that buzzes with energy all day long. Whether it’s for a leisurely lunch with friends or a convivial after-work gathering, The Emerald’s vibe is always busy and bustling. Its central location on Greenwoods Corner, coupled with its reputation for impeccable service and ambiance, have already made it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, and as Tolley tells us, this is just the beginning.

Open seven days a week, from noon till late, The Emerald invites its guests to indulge in an unforgettable experience that transcends the ordinary. And whether you’re a local of the area, or are simply seeking a new watering hole that offers something a little different, this new destination should definitely be on your radar.

Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday, 12pm until late

The Emerald

581 Manukau Road,
Auckland

09 624 0363

www.theemerald.co.nz

Gastronomy

Whitebait season is here, and this is the perfect spot to get your fix
Have you heard? Alla Prossima is the new Italian eatery in the city you need to know
Heading to the opera this month? We have everywhere to eat, drink and celebrate around the event

Voices of Hope’s new audio-visual exhibition is an illuminating exploration of mental health in New Zealand

It’s no secret that the statistics around New Zealand’s poor mental health are staggering. Our nation’s rates of mental health challenges are shockingly disproportionate to the rest of the world, and often, it’s our most vulnerable communities that are the most greatly impacted. But increasingly, we’re seeing heed paid to an issue that has long been shied away from — with a growing number of Kiwis having the courage to speak up and seek support, and in doing so, inspiring those around them to acknowledge their own feelings.

There are a host of charities in New Zealand doing incredible work in this space — changing the narrative, raising awareness, removing the stigma, and shifting our collective thinking to incite radical change. One such organisation is Voices Of Hope, whose goal is spreading hope through the voices of those with lived experience. They also provide a safe space for those facing mental health challenges. This month, the charity is furthering their important and impactful work, shining the spotlight on a diverse range of individuals through a moving audio-visual exhibition entitled Behind the Smile

Within the exhibition, open to the public now at Allpress Studio, 11 everyday kiwis have been profiled, shot by renowned photographer Tom Gould to capture the essence of each person in their ‘happy place’. The series features intimate, raw interviews that reveal the lived experiences and mental health struggles each person has faced, portraying vulnerability and strength through Gould’s moving portraiture. The hope is that, by witnessing a group of New Zealanders from all walks of life laying themselves and their struggles bare, others will be empowered to tell their stories and seek support, too.

Everyone faces struggles you can’t see behind the smile, and while this campaign and exhibition set out to spread hope to people who may be struggling, it also sits as a call to arms for us all to look past the surface and be more aware, empathetic, and in touch with our humanity.

Behind the Smile is a free exhibition at Allpress Studio, running from 16th February — 8th March

Culture

Here’s everything you need to know about the Women’s and Youth events at the 37th America’s Cup
Need a weekend read? These are the newly released novels and real-life reads to dive into
From design festivals to unmissable exhibitions and theatre, our September Culture Guide has everything you need to book this month

Timeless not trendy, monochrome is chic in every situation — shop our edit of black & white pieces now

In a cool reimagining of traditional black and white, modern monochrome calls for a bold approach. Here, while the palette is simple, it certainly doesn’t have to be boring. From geometric prints, to chic monograms; graphic detailing to glamorous touches, we have rounded up an edit of our favourite monochromatic pieces to shop now.

Shop The Edit
Monochrome Mania
AlaÏa skater skirt from Faradays
HORSEBIT 1955 BAG from Gucci
Bubble Damier XXL Detail Dress from Louis Vuitton
Valentino ROCKSTUD CALFSKIN PUMPS from net-a-porter
GG WOOL BOUCLÉ JACQUARD TOP from Gucci
BOTTEGA VENETA Cha-Cha mules from Net-A-Porter
Jacquemus Draped Ribbed-Knit Top from Moda Operandi
Christopher Esber
Racquet Apex Blazer from Muse
Lady dior bag from Christian Dior
Anine Bing Aiden Shirt from Muse
Brushed leather lace-up shoes from Prada
Saint Laurent JACKET IN
WOOL GABARDINE from Mytheresa
Majorelle Bodysuit from Camilla and Marc
Harris Tapper Sherman Trouser from Muse
Pico Looping Bag from Louis Vuitton
Resort Dress from St. Agni
Christopher Esber
Minette Flat from Muse
Alto Halter Dress from Camilla and Marc
LOEWE Classic Anagram T-Shirt from Faradays
Backstage Hair Clip from Louis Vuitton
3D Monogram Pajama Pants from Louis Vuitton
Gucci Mask-Frame Sunglasses from Moda Operandi
Bow Detail Pleated Wrap Skirt from Louis Vuitton
LOEWE Ease Sandals from Faradays

Coveted

Celebrating another year around the sun, our Editor-and-chief hosted an intimate evening with Tiffany & Co.
Runway Report: Romanticism, refinement, and a renewed energy & style abound at New York Fashion Week
Commercial Bay’s ‘Solstice’ is back, set to be an unmissable celebration of music, fashion, food and more
L’Austral. Picture Ponant

Sights set on a European jaunt? Journey in style on one of Ponant’s Grand Voyages

As summer draws to a close we’re finding ourselves dreaming of journeys to far-flung places, filling our calendars with holiday bookings to quell any post-summer blues. As always, Europe beckons, but instead of making for the usual metropolises we’re eager to explore lesser-known locales, seeking a vacation outside of the ordinary.

As well as scouting for destinations to explore anew, we’re considering our mode of transport, so as to maximise vacation time, and there’s a certain type of travel that sees a trip become as much about the journey as the destination. Yes, we’re talking about seafaring, and we’ve got our sights firmly set on the intimate luxury and exceptional itineraries of Ponant’s Grand Voyages. Ponant, the elevated French cruising company founded by a group of professional sailors in 1988, has been perfecting the art of sea exploration since its inception, and now, the 13-fleet company specialising in small vessel cruising has expanded their offering with the addition of their incredible Grand Voyages through Europe. 

Sauna on Le Lapérouse. Picture Ponant
Left: photo credit Nick Rains for Ponant. Right: Dining Room on Le Lapérouse, Picture Ponant

Ponant’s ships are yacht-like in style, hosting between 32 — 264 guests per voyage, which, when combined with quiet, comfortable spaces, hospitality excellence, and luxurious offerings encompassing spas & salons, entertainment areas, shopping and more, makes for an experience akin to sailing on a private yacht of your very own.

When it comes to the voyages themselves, few do it better than Ponant. Their experts know travel better than most and take immense pride in not only creating incredible onboard offerings, but mapping out exceptional itineraries that offer guests insight into the authentic beauty of the world — featuring visits to iconic ports, as well as exotic destinations that are off the beaten path.

Underwater Blue Eye Lounge on LE LAPÉROUSE. photo credit Vutheara Kham for Ponant

For an in-depth exploration of the Mediterranean, look to the all-encompassing Lisbon to Antalya route — a 29-day voyage traversing seven countries and calling at 28 ports. Here, you’ll discover the major cities of the Iberian Peninsula; explore UNESCO world heritage sites — from the Silk Exchange in Valencia to the tower of Belém, the Acropolis in Athens, and more; discover the captivating beauty of the Balearic; dive into the azure waters of Sardinia and Sicily; journey between Malta, Italy, Greece and Turkey, discovering some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful antique sites in early spring; and much, much more. This is a truly magical, once in a lifetime exploration of Europe not to be missed.

Prestige Stateroom on Deck 4 aboard Ponant Explorer, Le Lapérouse. Picture Ponant

Or, perhaps it’s the intrigue of Finland, Estonia, Sweden, Lithuania, Poland, and Denmark on the Helsinki to Lisbon route that will prove your ideal voyage. On this 12-country, 24-port journey, tailored to curious and discerning travellers, you’ll be met with not only an incredibly well-curated exploration across 26 days (with excursions in major cities and lesser-known locations — from Amsterdam, Antwerp and Stockholm to the charming coastal town of Scheveningen and the Hanseatic Town of Visby), but incredible insight into the destinations, too, with onboard Smithsonian Journeys experts and an exclusive discussion with former President of Poland and Nobel Peace Prize-laureate, Lech Wałęsa, while in Gdansk.

However, if it’s an exploration of the ancient sites of Greece, Croatia, Italy, Slovenia and Turkey that you seek, look no further than the Antalya to Venice voyage. Spanning five countries and 16 ports across just over two weeks, this varied cruise journeys through lively cities, historic sites and charming beaches — from the pearls of the Cyclades (Santorini, Delos, and Mykonos) to the striking landscapes of Puglia, The Acropolis of Athens, the sacred island of Delos and more, this trip aboard Ponant’s sleek, refined L’Austral ship is a guaranteed journey to remember.

Santorini Greece. Photo credit Nath Michel for Ponant

Whether an incredible journey to your next destination or an unforgettable holiday in its own right, Ponant’s 2025 Grand Voyages are a sublime way to explore the wonders of the world. Secure your spot on one of the intimate luxury cruises for the 2025 season now, and sail into the sunset in unmatched style.

au.ponant.com

Escape

Craving a sojourn in the sun? Wakaya Island Resort is an idyllic escape not too far from home
Heading to Barcelona for the Cup? Consult our definitive guide on where to stay, shop, eat and drink
New & Noteworthy: This is everything on our radar this week
Amano

Denizen’s definitive guide to Auckland’s best bakeries

Whether you’re in need of a celebratory sweet centrepiece, a delectable lunch, or simply require a little treat to get your morning off to the perfect start, the following bakeries are making a name for themselves in the pastry, bread and cake department. But, don’t take our word for it, this is the time to conduct some of your own ‘research’.

Best Bakeries in Town
Editors’ Picks

Amano Bakery Baked Goods
Britomart
Amano Bakery

Atelier Shu sweet treats
Parnell
Atelier Shu

Wild Wheat bread
Various Locations
Wild Wheat

Best Bakeries in Town
The Best Of The Rest

Baked @ Devonport, Devonport

Bread & Butter, Grey Lynn

Busy Oven Bakery, Ponsonby

Copain, Ponsonby

Diehl’s Bakery, Glenfield

Dusty’s Depot, St Johns

Fã Artisan Bake, Silverdale

Fort Greene, K’Road

Just Jess Boujee Bakery, Huapai

Kneads All Day, Hobsonville

La Voie Francaise, Mt Roskill

Little French Cafe, Mt Eden & Point Chevalier

Little & Friday, Ponsonby & Newmarket

Manis, Ponsonby

Mizu Bread, Auckland CBD

Small Mercies, Mt Eden

Tart Bakery, Various Locations

The Baker’s Cottage, Kingsland

The Real Bread Project, Helensville

The Store, Britomart

Vaniyé Patisserie, Parnell

Wheatz Bakery, Auckland CBD

Gastronomy

Whitebait season is here, and this is the perfect spot to get your fix
Have you heard? Alla Prossima is the new Italian eatery in the city you need to know
Heading to the opera this month? We have everywhere to eat, drink and celebrate around the event

With delicious food, a sprawling terrace and some of the best cocktails in town, Darling on Drake is the new restaurant and bar to have on your radar

In the vast and varied culinary landscape of Auckland, where every new opening vies for attention, Darling on Drake has quickly risen to the top. Set on a sprawling site on the edge of Victoria Park, this latest venture is the brainchild of Fraser Kirby, who has harnessed his background in advertising, large-scale events and hospitality to create something truly unique to this city.

From the moment you step through the doors of Darling on Drake, it’s clear that this is not just another restaurant, nor is it a typical bar. Meticulously curated, the space was inspired by Kirby’s desire to bring something of an international calibre to Auckland, the founder drawing on his time working in cities like New York, Chicago and Melbourne to cultivate a venue that would seamlessly blend romance and elegance with a touch of whimsy and a convivial vibe.

Left: Darling’s dining room. Right: Short Rib and Mozzarella Nuggets with English mustard

From its sleek dining room finished in tones of crimson, black and cream and boasting views out to Darling’s terrace and Victoria Park beyond, to its elegantly-curved bar framing one side of the interior, to the second bar on its sprawling deck (the biggest outdoor terrace in Central Auckland) with a vibe that feels both lively and intimate, Darling was designed to offer several distinct but connected spaces within its confines, with Kirby calling on Mitchell Addison and Jeffery Construction to help him bring it to life.

Left: Tuna Crudo with scorched peppers, thyme and roasted almond. Right: The interior bar at Darling.

“I wanted Darling to become somewhere you could have different experiences on different nights,” Kirby tells me, “or even the same night.” He continues, “Whatever the occasion calls for, you can find it here, whether that’s an intimate dinner in our dining room, or drinks in the sun on the terrace while enjoying our rotating roster of DJs and live music… or a bit of both.”

At the heart of Darling lies a pretty impressive culinary experience too, thanks to a menu created with the expertise of Chef Ryan Moore, whose pedigree includes stints at a number of acclaimed establishments, including The Grove and Bivacco. From starters to mains, sides and desserts, every dish harnesses locally sourced ingredients to offer elevated bar and bistro fare that plays on nostalgia and reimagined classics.

Left: Darling daiquiri. Right: Matangi Farm Poor Man’s Ribeye with bone marrow gravy.

To start, there is a range of tantalising small bites, from Tuna Crudo with scorched peppers, thyme and roasted almond to Short Rib and Mozzarella Nuggets with English mustard, to a deliciously delicate Wagyu Carpaccio and a particularly glorious Mushroom Parfait that has swiftly captured the imaginations of almost everyone who has tried it. Those seeking something more substantial can find it in the larger menu items, including dishes like the Chicken Leg Corn Dog (a unique take on a classic, fast food), the flavourful Fish Schnitzel with tartare butter, the undeniably indulgent Smashed Dry Aged Patty Melt with mortadella, burger sauce and fries, and the Matangi Farm Poor Man’s Ribeye, complete with utterly mouthwatering bone marrow gravy.

Those with a sweet tooth would do well to order a smorgasbord of Darling’s desserts, which come in at a tightly curated threesome of a Religieuse, which is a French delicacy made up of a small choux pastry stacked on top of a larger one, both filled with crème pâtissière and served with banana and salted popcorn, a Strawberry and Sherry Trifle and a Chocolate and Hazelnut Smore.

Left: Darling’s sun-soaked deck. Right: Darling’s chicken burger special.

Of course, no dining experience at Darling on Drake would be complete without exploring the carefully curated drinks menu. Designed with the help of the venue’s very capable General Manager, Marie Courtessole, the beverage offerings showcase a blend of classic cocktails and more innovative concoctions, each crafted with precision and care. From the crowd-pleasing Serpent (with tequila, mezcal, cointreau, jalapeño water, Kiwi puree and pineapple juice) to the sophisticated Ugo Martini (with pisco, Cocchi Americano and maraschino) to the signature margarita on tap (a strong crowd favourite, apparently), the libations at Darling on Drake are designed to surprise and delight even the most discerning palate. While the curated wine list spans a selection of good French and New Zealand drops, bringing together the best of of what both regions do best. 

Beyond all of this, what truly sets Darling on Drake apart is its dynamic atmosphere. Whether it’s for a leisurely lunch or a lively night out, the vibe here is always electric, thanks to its well-designed spaces and its diverse and thoughtful offering.

Since opening at the end of last year, Darling on Drake has continued to captivate the hearts of Aucklanders looking for good food and drinks and a great time. It makes sense then why this new dining destination has become such a regular watering hole for some of the city’s most discerning foodies. Whether you’re looking for a place to catch up over cocktails with friends, a new date-night dinner spot, a high-energy haunt for after-dark drinks or anything in between, Darling on Drake seems to have all the answers and is definitely the kind of venue that Auckland has needed for a long time. If you haven’t visited it yet, consider this a sign.

Opening hours:
Monday to Wednesday, 3pm until late
Thursday to Sunday, 12pm until late

Darling on Drake

27 Drake Street
Auckland

www.darlingondrake.com

Gastronomy

Whitebait season is here, and this is the perfect spot to get your fix
Have you heard? Alla Prossima is the new Italian eatery in the city you need to know
Heading to the opera this month? We have everywhere to eat, drink and celebrate around the event

With new owners and a new venue, the highly-anticipated Aotearoa Art Fair is back & better than ever for 2024

Having built its reputation on showcasing exceptional contemporary art from New Zealand, Australia, Asia and beyond, the Aotearoa Art Fair is once again poised to deliver a captivating line-up in its 2024 edition, taking place from the 18th until the 21st of April in Auckland. In an exciting change, this year’s fair will be hosted in the iconic Viaduct Events Centre, which will be transformed into a bustling cultural hub to offer a fresh perspective on artistic exchange and expression.

This year’s fair also signals the start of a new era under the ownership of the organisers behind Australia’s leading art fair, Sydney Contemporary as well as other major international arts fairs including Art Central Hong Kong, Taipei Dangdai, India Art Fair, PHOTOFAIRS Shanghai, ART SG and Tokyo Gendai. Considering their international expertise and extensive network, it is a transition that promises to elevate the Aotearoa Art Fair to new heights and foster deeper and more meaningful connections within the Asia Pacific art community.

“We are excited to officially be part of Aotearoa New Zealand’s vibrant and dynamic art scene,” says Co-Owner Tim Etchells. “We see this as a natural evolution focused on building a broader base of art communities and art exchange in the Asia Pacific region and strengthening the relationship between our member fairs. Our deep understanding of the region, of each local market and experience in organising world-class arts events will provide unique opportunities for the New Zealand visual arts community to grow and prosper.” 

With a focus on strengthening relationships between New Zealand’s offering and other fairs around the region, as well as an impetus to nurture local talent, it is clear that this year’s Fair is in the best position to support the growth and prosperity of our local visual arts community — which is as exciting a prospect for the artists and gallerists involved as it is for any collectors waiting in the wings.

As far as what to expect from the line-up this year, the programme has been thoughtfully curated to cater to both collectors and art enthusiasts alike. Expected to draw over 10,000 local and international visitors, the Aotearoa Art Fair 2024 will showcase the finest contemporary art from New Zealand and beyond, ranging from established names to emerging talents and offering a comprehensive picture of both current trends and innovative expressions. And while the specific gallery line-up is yet to be announced, Etchells assures us that this year’s Fair is shaping up as one of the best yet. “We are already working plans with the team to deliver a fair that showcases the very best contemporary art from Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the wider Pacific Rim,” he says.

In addition to its gallery presentations, the Fair will also offer a diverse range of activities, including tours, artist talks, panel discussions, live performances, an outdoor sculpture park, an art bookshop, and a variety of dining options.

Running since 2011, The Aotearoa Art Fair is New Zealand’s biggest contemporary art event with an undeniable cultural and economic impact on New Zealand’s visual arts sector. In 2023, for instance, the galleries sold more than $4 million of art, with all proceeds benefiting the artists and their galleries, and this year is shaping up to be just as significant. 

With tickets on sale now, anticipation is building for what promises to be a transformative and dynamic cultural event that should be down in everyone’s calendars. From its new venue to its new owners bringing a fresh vision to the table, the Aotearoa Art Fair 2024 is poised to redefine our local art scene, foster international connections and celebrate the boundless artistic talent we have access to both in New Zealand and from around our region. And whether you’re a bona fide art aficionado, a collector, or someone who simply wants to learn more, this is one event you don’t want to miss.

Culture

Here’s everything you need to know about the Women’s and Youth events at the 37th America’s Cup
Need a weekend read? These are the newly released novels and real-life reads to dive into
From design festivals to unmissable exhibitions and theatre, our September Culture Guide has everything you need to book this month
Left to right: Christian Siriano, Eckhaus Latta, Proenza Schouler & Ulla Johnson

The best looks and fresh inspiration direct from New York Fashion Week

Opening the Fall ’24 runway circuit, the season’s Ready-To-Wear collections dazzled — setting the tone for the months of fashion to follow. This season begun with designers offering fresh takes on the familiar — from Peter Do’s sophomore showing for Helmut Lang, where his musings on the current state of the world saw models donning silk bubble wrap trousers, knit balaclavas pared back with suiting, slouchy puffer jackets and shopping bag-like woven leather (a take on ‘protective clothing’), to Christian Siriano’s Dune-inspired collection — an edit of etehereal gowns, suiting and evening wear rendered in a dramatic dessert palette with a distinctly post apocolyptic influence, to the elevated minimilism of Eckhaus Latta, Ulla Johnson, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and Proenza Schouler. Here, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite looks from the collections thus far.

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
3.1 Phillip Lim

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
Helmut Lang

Shop Helmut Lang at Superette in Commercial Bay

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
Proenza Schouler

Shop Proenza Schouler at Muse

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
Ulla Johnson

Shop Ulla Johnson at Muse

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
Christian Siriano

Fall 2024 Read-To-Wear
Eckhaus Latta

Coveted

Celebrating another year around the sun, our Editor-and-chief hosted an intimate evening with Tiffany & Co.
Runway Report: Romanticism, refinement, and a renewed energy & style abound at New York Fashion Week
Commercial Bay’s ‘Solstice’ is back, set to be an unmissable celebration of music, fashion, food and more