Gloria’s has officially planted its flag in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, marking the start of a new era for this popular lunchtime spot. After a year of meticulously refining their offering via an always-busy space on Karangahape Road (which is now closed) the culinary visionaries behind Gloria’s and Bar Celeste have finally unveiled their ‘dream deli’ in the vibrant Commercial Bay precinct, and it’s already attracting the hungry crowds in droves.
Led by masterful Chef Nick Landsman, Gloria’s modus operandi has always been taking the easy lunchtime experience to bold new heights, something for which its K’ Road spot became quickly renowned. With a focus on slow food made fast, Landsman’s commitment to quality and convenience shines through in every delectable bite, where artisan sandwiches meet pizza al taglio, impossibly soft focaccia, a raft of tasty sides and mouthwatering cookies — all made with the utmost care and attention to flavour and finish.
At new Gloria’s deli, the menu really is a testament to Landsman’s culinary prowess and passion for excellence. From classic grilled sandwiches like the Three-Cheese grilled cheese with jalapeño, and the Tuna Melt with tuna salad and pickled red onion, to fresh focaccia sandwiches like the Spicy Tonno with Calabrian chilli, cabbage , cucumber, ranch and olives, and the Butternut & Burrata sammie with green sauce, radicchio and radish, the options here not only fulfilling, but are full of flavour.
Beyond serving the kinds of sandwiches that Gloria’s K’ Road was already known for, this new deli also marks the introduction of Gloria’s pizza al taglio programme, an offering that has sparked significant excitement. Here, you’ll find by-the-slice pizza squares with toppings like pepperoni, hot honey and ricotta, or potato, onion, guanciale and sage, or even mortadella, mozzarella, pistachio and guindillas (all options that, we’ve heard, have been flying out of the cabinet). Of course, Gloria’s famous cookies are also on offer here, with a tantalising line-up that includes burnt butter and dark chocolate with sea salt, caramelised white chocolate with macadamia, and triple chocolate chew.
In fact, Landsman’s dedication to made-from-scratch recipes is evident in every aspect of Gloria’s culinary offerings. From slow-fermented breads to house-made sauces and fresh ingredients sourced from quality producers, each component is meticulously prepared daily by the skilled team to ensure quality, flavour and a take-away experience that is unlike anything else.
As Gloria’s settles into its new home in Commercial Bay, its full offering will be rolled out in the coming weeks, including morning tartines featuring house focaccia with labneh, Ora King Salmon roe and chives, as well as a decidedly indulgent sausage and egg muffin. And for anyone looking to elevate their weekend gatherings, Gloria’s take-home deli offers everything one could need for entertaining, from charcuterie to delicious dips and cheese, the prospect of a DIY platter has never looked so good. Moreover, with catering and delivery services allegedly on the horizon, Gloria’s is poised to become a cornerstone of Commercial Bay, inviting locals and visitors alike to experience the artisanal excellence that has long underlined its offering.
Sitting pretty at one of Auckland’s most iconic addresses, 131 Queen Street is a masterfully transformed commercial office building offering an unparalleled working environment, a vibrant hospitality precinct, and Andrew Krukziener’s magic touch.
Here, a sense of elegant grandeur prevails — perfectly befitting its heritage address. In fact, the building was originally home to one of the country’s finest department stores, Milne & Choyce, who traded successfully from the site for over 70 years. The cutting-edge structural design featured mushroom headed octagonal columns which provided minimal intrusions into the trading floor and a fully glazed store front.
131 Queen Street
Since the 1840s, Queen Street has long been Auckland’s centre point, connecting the harbour with the CBD, offering a vibrant arts precinct, and housing the City’s most striking heritage buildings. It’s this last fact that captured the attention of Andrew Krukziener, with the visionary developer adding another Queen Street heritage site to his incredibly impressive oeuvre — furthering his ambitious reimagining of the historic street. Over the past decade, this vibrant and centrally-located end of Queen Street has seen a complete transformation — with many of the world’s most renowned luxury brands finding a home amongst the character buildings.
Simply named for its address, 131 Queen Street is a luxurious city office development set in one of the City’s most character-filled heritage buildings, boasting what is arguably the most striking lobby in the Auckland. The opulent touches and historic architecture speak to the rich history of the 1924 building, while Krukziener’s reimagining of the space ushers it into the modern day.
Left: Restored original elevators. Right: Andrew Krukziener
Here, the architecture is enriched by ornate, sculptural detailing — from grand columns to steel arched windows and Art Deco motifs, animated by refined materials and textures. The building’s 4.2-metre ceilings, European wide board oak flooring and expansive windows make for an exceptional foundation, while its elegant yet relaxed feel makes for a more than perfect working environment.
Labelling Krukziener as a visionary feels fitting, given his incredible foresight when it comes to development, and the part he’s played in progressing Auckland’s built environment. Responsible for the purchase and development of over 130 residential and commercial buildings throughout Auckland over the last 38 years, with projects totalling more than NZ$1.5 billion, the developer pays special heed to the preservation of historical buildings through discerning renovation. He has restored and redeveloped many recognised landmarks in Auckland City including the Old Magistrates Court Building at The Metropolis, the Contemporary Art Gallery on Lorne Steet and DFS Galleria on Customs Street. These days, the revitalisation of Queen Street is where Krukziener’s attention is turned, with 131 Queen Street raising the bar.
The entrance lobby.
When approaching the ten-story heritage building, Krukziener looked to the iconic Art Deco architecture of New York for inspiration to craft a design narrative that pays homage to the site’s history while bringing it into the present.
The Office Lobby is where Krukziener was able to evoke the grandeur of the 1920’s — marble, macassar ebony and bronze have been artfully crafted alongside custom-designed chandeliers and wall sconces. The original bronze elevator signage was even uncovered during the works and repositioned to the office lobby. Whilst creating impeccably detailed interiors is the element of the project Krukziener most enjoyed, the first step was a hefty seismic upgrade. Strengthening the building to 100 percent New Building Standard (NBS) from the foundations to the roof was achieved with the installation of post tension steel bars imported from the United Kingdom, paired with new sheer walls and GRP wrapping of the columns. Seismic engineer, Ioannis Prionas of Tekton Consulting Engineers worked alongside Krukziener to minimise the intrusion of the new elements — so successful was he, that the new steel bars look as if they have supported the building for the past century. The heritage elements including the intricate plaster and steel facade were preserved, the canopy restored to its original design and new custom-designed features were created by craftsmen in Auckland from bronze, plaster, timber and stone.
131 Office Space
In the offices there is a symphony between modern technology and striking character features. A new air conditioning plant was designed to provide state of the art control to tenants — but it’s the bathrooms, clad with the deepest green marble and fitted with traditional tapware and fixtures, together with octagonal mirrors and bronze door hardware that are the most commented on.
The lower-level floor plates have been divided to create offices ranging in size from 150 square-metres to 400 square-metres. The lofty stud height and expansive windows flood the spaces with natural light.
The National Business Review followed Krukziener when he decided to move his offices to 131 Queen Street — the two businesses have been neighbours since 2009, with professional service companies Accenture and Cyber CX also both leasing full floors on the upper levels of the building, joining boutique investment bank Montarne and Five V Capital. The top two levels — the finest character spaces in Auckland, are available for lease, both boasting private terraces overlooking Queen Street towards Albert Park and the harbour.
Left: Entrance lobby details. Right: View from 131 Queen Street
The Ground Level will house luxury retail and on Level One a food and beverage destination is being created, starting with a sophisticated whiskey bar to be run by the team behind The Jefferson. Award-winning hospitality designers, Izzard Design are responsible for transforming Level One into a culinary meeting place. Drawing inspiration from global metropolises where city centres are vibrant hubs of activity around the clock, here you’ll find a diverse mix of elevated eateries as well as a boutique, luxury tearoom, offering both tenants and central city visitors a taste of New Zealand in an entirely unique setting.
131 Queen Street sits as a beacon of style offering businesses an exceptional base right in the very heart of the City. The combination of innovation, sophistication, and entrepreneurship that Krukziener has employed in his latest project is just what our city centre needs to usher in the new era of downtown Auckland.
To secure one of the few remaining luxury office spaces at 131 Queen Street contact Ollie Mawson on 021 740 031.
Britomart favourite Bar Non Solo has recently relaunched their workday lunch special, making it the ultimate spot for those seeking a mid-day escape. As we all know, stepping away from the daily grind is vital to boost productivity and creativity, and what better way to unwind than with a delicious meal accompanied by refreshing libations?
Right: Spicy Salami Pizza
From Tuesday to Friday, Bar Non Solo has introduced an unbeatable lunch special, featuring one of their famous dishes alongside a choice of wine, beer or spritz, all for a mere $25. Ideal for those seeking a quick yet satisfying meal during their hectic workday, this express lunch deal is as suited for a quick catch-up amongst friends as it is for sharing with colleagues.
Here, you can take your pick from a variety of handmade pasta, seasonal pizzas, and salads, paired perfectly with an ice-cold Peroni, Aperol Spritz, a glass of Idle Hands wine, or a signature mocktail. Savour fresh Bucatini with crab, chilli, garlic, oregano, and pangrattato, Spicy Salami Pizza with tomato and fior di latte, or Bar Non Solo’s signature Caesar Salad with white anchovies. With many more delicious dishes to choose from.
Left: Crab Bucatini
And the lunch special is only the tip of the iceberg. Bar Non Solo has added a host of new menu items, launched a member’s club, and added to their aperitivo hour offering, making it the ultimate spot for City-siders seeking an all-encompassing local.
One of the world’s most iconic ballets, Swan Lake (renowned for its exceptional choreography, exquisite music and spectacular sets) is set to enchant New Zealand audiences this May. With a stellar cast and impeccable production, The Royal New Zealand Ballet will be touring the timeless masterpiece up and down the country, and is promising a show you don’t want to miss.
“This production holds so many precious memories for generations of New Zealanders,” says RNZB Artistic Director Ty King-Wall. “Swan Lake’s themes of hope, deception, betrayal, and forgivenesscontinue to resonate so powerfully. I know how excited the dancers are to be performing Swan Lake this year, and hope audiences are ready to be swept away to this supernatural, transcendent world with us.”
Underpinning the production is Tchaikovsky’s sweeping score, brought to life by the exceptional Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra, each note resonating with romance and drawing the audience into a world of opulence and tragedy. While Kristian Fredrikson’s lavish costumes, complemented by masterful lighting design from Jon Buswell promise to transport guests from grand palace ballrooms to serene lakeside vistas.
But beyond its music, costumes and imaginative set-design, Swan Lake is a ballet that represents the pinnacle of balletic artistry, requiring dedication and incredible skill from the dancers who bring its characters to life. Here, RNZB Principal Mayu Tanigaito is set to perform the coveted role of Odette/Odile for the first time in her 12-year tenure with the company, an achievement she describes as a privilege. “I feel like I have been working towards this my whole career,” she says. “From performing Odile in competitions as a young teenager, to understudying this role 11 years ago, and since performing both main pas de deuxs, I am very excited to perform the complete role in Russell Kerr’s beautiful production.”
Also joining the production in a character role is Tanigaito’s husband and recently-retired RNZB Principal, Paul Mathews, portraying Wolfgang, Prince Siegfried’s tutor. Mathews, who has performed in over 50 Swan Lake productions, reflects on the honour of stepping into the role previously only played for the company by the late Sir Jon Trimmer, and explains how he plans to incorporate wisdom gained from Trimmer to bring depth and authenticity to his performance.
With its return, Swan Lake is reaffirming its status as the ballet of all ballets, a timeless tale of love, betrayal, heartbreak and tragedy that can only be brought to life via meticulous production and highly skilled dancers. Landing in Auckland’s Aotea Centre on the 9th of May and running until the 12th of May, this spectacular ballet is gearing up to be the cultural event of the season. And given that tickets are on sale now, we suggest securing yours with haste, lest you miss out.
Despite having recently made his Paris Fashion Week debut, Australian fashion designer Christopher Esber, and his eponymous label, have been adored by the industry’s most forward-thinking proponents for nearly 15 years. Renowned for creating clothes that flatter the female form and reimagining classic ideas through a more contemporary, experimental lens, Esber has long been a trailblazer in his field and now, he has the international clientele to prove it. Here, we speak to the lauded designer as he reflects on his impressive journey at fashion’s frontier and looks towards an exciting future.
Whether you own something designed by Christopher Esber or not, you’d be hard-pressed to attend an event where no one is wearing one of his signature pieces, so ubiquitous has his eponymous brand become. From the iconic Esber cut-outs to the deconstructed denim and dresses that can be changed at the flick of a button or the switch of a tie, to the drapery and fabrics that, fastened with sculptural hardware, hold one’s form just so, Esber’s design language is both experimental and structured, and is as much about evolution and forward thinking as it is about craft, clever fabrication and timeless ideas. And while Esber’s eponymous label has certainly enjoyed immense popularity over its impressive 14 years, there is certainly nothing commonplace about his designs. And therein lies the magic.
Olivia Vincent-Healy, owner of Muse (the exclusive stockist of Christopher Esber in New Zealand) has been working with Esber for over a decade, bringing his signature pieces to her discerning clientele for whom the brand has become a season-to-season staple and a cornerstone offering at Muse. “We’re so honoured to be the exclusive stockist of Christopher Esber in New Zealand,” she tells me. “It’s been so amazing to see his evolution… I still wear a few of the pieces I collected from our very first buy and most of my clients own a pair of his bias cut satin pants… his tailoring is exquisite, nothing compares!”
Esber, it seems, has built his success on creating clothes that balance universal appeal with unique edginess in a wholly original and truly earnest way. His designs come from a place of genuine curiosity around how to push the envelope while remaining true to his convictions, carrying through his vision of creating bold collections that empower his customers to assert their individuality. Because (and I speak from experience here), even if you find yourself in a sea of Esber-wearing women, you still feel as though your piece is your own — that no one else could wear it like you do. Such is the simple power of Esber’s designs.
“I love things that challenge our eye and our perception of what is ‘appropriate,’” Esber tells me. “Women respond to our clothes because we offer a relaxed approach to this in a nuanced way… and there is a science that surpasses the ‘convey and conceal’ balance of our cuts… it’s the touch of a fabric, the feel of it on your skin,” he pauses, “and the way you feel in a garment is everything because I believe confidence leads, first and foremost.”
There is an art to creating clothes that imbue confidence in the wearer and for Esber, this skill seems to come from a similar quality he has found within himself. “One of the most significant things I have learned since starting my brand is knowing when the right opportunity comes along and to strike with conviction and back myself,” he says, “sticking to one’s own values and convictions will always supersede trends.” Indeed, Esber has never been one to rest on his laurels, or move with the ever-shifting tides of the industry in which he has become such a significant player, and the trajectory of his brand is a testament to both his strategic approach and his dedication to reimagining the status quo.
“Development and innovation are ingrained in our business ethos,” says the designer, “approaching a new idea such as how we treat a fabric to achieve a specific shape ultimately sets the tone and energy for a season, and it’s the most exciting part of the design process.” For Esber, every new season offers a fresh opportunity to experiment with creative concepts, the continual evolution a driving force of his success and longevity. He starts with fabrics, draping them to create new silhouettes, before exploring hardware and metals and how they might give a piece shape. Esber tells me, “Pieces are always considered and designed with intent, as I look for ways to create negative space… new ways to conceal and reveal the body.” He continues, “a slit, a cut-out or a juncture anchored by hardware is there for a reason, whether that be form or function.”
“It’s been so amazing to see [Esber’s] evolution… most of my clients own a pair of his bias cut satin pants… his tailoring is exquisite, nothing compares.”
Clearly, his methodical way of working has paid off. The beauty of Christopher Esber is the way in which each new season feels like a conversation with its predecessor. Cast your eyes over the extensive Esber archives and there is a cohesive story being told. Whether you bought into it back in 2010, or as recently as last year, the brand feels anchored in the zeitgeist even as it seems to transcend fashion’s notoriously fickle fray — a difficult dichotomy that has allowed the designer to remain firmly ahead of the game.
Unsurprisingly, Christopher Esber’s appeal has long surpassed the boundaries of antipodean audiences alone, thanks in part to the number of influential celebrities who have touted its pieces. (British Vogue hit the nail on the head with an article a few years ago titled, ‘How Christopher Esber became Catnip for It Girls’.) Personalities, models and actors like Zendaya, Bella Hadid, Hailey Beiber, Solange Knowles, Greta Lee and Dua Lipa have been spotted wearing signature Christopher Esber pieces, and a few months ago when JLo unveiled the exclusive vinyl for her highly-anticipated new album This is Me Now, it featured a photo of her wearing the Christopher Esber Salacia Wire Column Dress on the cover — an iconic moment. Although Esber tells me that getting his designs on some of the world’s most respected names in fashion and pop culture was never a strategic decision. “I’m grateful to dress women on any platform,” he says, “but it has all just happened in an organic way, which is nice because none of it feels pushed or forced.”
For Esber, the women he dresses carry the same qualities, whether they have millions of followers or not. “The Christopher Esber woman is strong and intelligent,” he tells me. “She asserts herself through her wardrobe and she is put-together and considered, but not to perfection.” He says, “she’s a woman who can go from wearing a tank top and jeans, to being the most captivating person in any room with nothing more than a lick of lipstick and a simple dress.”
Alongside his burgeoning popularity with the glamorous fashion-week set, Esber’s cache in the industry’s upper echelon has been steadily evolving too, culminating in the designer being invited to show at Paris Fashion Week last year, a goal he had been working towards his entire career. “The months leading up to Paris were intense,” he says, “all the planning, the creative energy, the challenge and knowing that it was the biggest stage we had ever shown on… but it was so rewarding, and now, we will continue to show in Paris every year.”
Underlying all of his achievements, Esber is a designer who proves that longterm dedication to craft coupled with a methodical, consistent work ethic really does pay off. Rather than falling into the category of ‘It’ designer (a fine but often fleeting title), or allowing the accolades that come with dressing celebrities to influence his course, Esber has remained laser-focused on his vision, something that he continues to carry with him as he moves into the next chapter of his brand. “Our focus now is on maintaining momentum,” he says, “we ticked so many boxes last year, so 2024 is about cementing the hard work, expanding the vision and pushing the brand in new ways.” He also hints that exciting collaborations and ventures into new markets are on the horizon for the coming months, although details remain firmly under wraps. In the meantime, we will continue to delight in his exceptional designs courtesy of Muse’s curated offering, season after season.
“One thing that has remained true throughout the course of the business is my commitment to finding new approaches to traditional design ideas,” says Esber. “We are a global business now, with a global customer base, and really, we’re in the business of selling ideas not products, so it’s important to continue to evolve and always look forward.”
The team at Non Solo Pizza, everyone’s favourite Italian restaurant this side of the Med, are masters in the art of the long lunch, and have just launched a new offering that is inspiring Aucklanders to sit back, relax, and live la dolce vita. Running now on Saturdays and Sundays, you’ll find an entirely delicious three course menu plus drinks, featuring the very best of NSP’s exceptional, fresh and always tasty Italian fare.
The perfect excuse to gather your nearest and dearest for a delicious lunch, whatever the occasion, NSP’s Italian Long Lunch is $55 per person and offers antipasti, secondi, dolce and spritz — with both classic dishes and inspired takes to choose from.
First things first — the drinks. Italian favourites reign supreme here, as always, with a series of Aperitivo Martini Spritzes and a host of exceptional drinks deals on offer. From the Seasonal Spritz, which combines Martini Bianco with tart passionfruit and soda, to the Martini Fiero Spritz with soda, prosecco and Martini’s ‘Fiero’ drop, which boasts a bittersweet orange taste, to the Martini Paloma, combining Martini Bianco, cynar, grapefruit and lime — these quenching cocktails are the perfect place to start, and are sure to set the tone. Of course, there will be plenty of Champagne and rosé specials too (this is a long lunch, after all), with Veuve Clicquot available all day for $25 a flute and $150 per bottle, bottomless prosecco* on offer for $49 per person, and, for the lucky revellers who purchase the first five bottles of Minuty rosé each day, you’ll be upgraded to a magnum.
Left: BURRATA
the beef carpaccio & Martini Paloma
When it comes to the food on offer, the options are bountiful. First up, the antipasti course sees the table served a delicious mix of house-made focaccia drizzled in citrus oil, served alongside whipped parmesan dip, Massimo burrata with olive oil and truffle salsa, Italian specialty Gamberi alla busara (prawns roasted in tomato, garlic & parsley), and delicate beef carpaccio with fresh truffle aioli, crispy capers, pecorino, and rocket.
Left: SLOW ROASTED BEEF TENDERLOIN
House Caesar salad, roasted whole market fish & rosemary roasted potatoes
The second course, however, is where the real magic happens. Here, you’re invited to indulge in roasted whole market fish with farmhouse bean gremolata and gribiche, slow roasted beef tenderloin with vincotto, rosemary and garlic with rosemary roasted potatoes, NSP’s famous house Caesar made with crunchy cos, lemon parmesan dressing and crispy pancetta, seasonal oysters served either natural with mignonette or Bacio del Limone granita, or crispy beer battered with aioli, a pasta course with either scampi linguine with or spinach & truffle ravioli, and woodfired pizzas straight from the traditional oven.
Right: FROZEN CREAMSICLE TORTE
And to finish, take your sweet, sweet time and savour one of the delectable desserts on offer (we suggest the frozen creamsicle torte with lemon gelato, buttercake, and Italian meringue), before moving on to a curated selection of Italian and New Zealand cheeses, lavosh, and generous condiments. The pièce de résistance, however, is the final round — NSP’s infamous Limoncello & Belvedere jellies. Sublime.
This competition is now closed.
Italian Long Lunch Hours: Saturday & Sunday, 12pm until 3pm
The weekend is upon us, and if you haven’t made any plans yet — fear not. There are a plethora of interesting, inspiring, incredible and astonishing cultural events happening in venues around the City this weekend, from one-man plays to burlesque performances to Irish live music and more. Here, we round up five exceptional cultural events that you should book tickets to ahead of the weekend.
In the Name of the Son — The Gerry Conlon Story at Q Theatre
A riveting portrayal of resilience in the face of injustice and fame, In the Name of the Son – The Gerry Conlon Story, sees Shaun Blaney masterfully bring Gerry Conlon’s tumultuous true story to life. The one-man play delves into Conlon’s rollercoaster ride from incarceration as one of the wrongly convicted Guildford Four to sudden acclaim following the release of the hit movie In the Name of the Father. As Conlon grapples with newfound wealth and status, his battle with addiction becomes a central theme, illustrating the harsh realities of fame. Audiences are drawn into Conlon’s world, experiencing the highs and lows of his turbulent existence with palpable emotion in this deeply moving work that really, explores the human spirit. Book tickets here.
Afrique en Cirque — The Civic
Offering a vibrant celebration of African culture that promises to captivate audiences with its fusion of Afro-jazz rhythms, traditional kora melodies and breathtaking acrobatics, Afrique en Cirque is an unmissable experience. Drawing inspiration from the daily life of Guinea, this circus extravaganza transports the essence of Africa to the grand stage of The Civic. From its charismatic performers who captivate and delight audiences with irrepressible energy, to its pulsating percussion, gravity-defying stunts and laugh-out-loud comedic skits, Afrique en Cirque is more than just a spectacle; it’s an immersive journey that promises to leave you spellbound and uplifted by the rich tapestry of African heritage and talent. Book tickets here.
Oh le Pepelu, la Gaoi, ma le Pala’ai. The Liar, the Thief and the Coward — ASB Waterfront Theatre
Don’t miss out on this brilliantly crafted theatrical exploration that delves into the complexities of fa’a sāmoa, where family, tradition and leadership intersect in a tumultuous yet darkly comedic narrative. O le Pepelo, le Gaoi, ma le Pala’ai | The Liar, the Thief, and the Coward is set in Sāmoa’s recent history, and revolves around Pili Sā Tauilevā, a respected Ali’i (chief) facing a critical moment as his illness threatens to disrupt the sacred fa’a sāmoa tradition. As Pili’s health deteriorates, his refusal to name a successor ignites a power struggle between his daughter and son, leading to unexpected alliances and betrayals. Through a blend of English and Gagana Sāmoa, the play skilfully navigates themes of power dynamics, politics and the tension between tradition and modernity and is a poignant commentary on cultural identity and the evolving landscape of Samoan society. Book tickets here.
Bernie Dieter’s Club Kabarett — Spiegeltent, Aotea Square
Bernie Dieter is a captivating force in the world of cabaret and here, she offers Auckland audiences a decadent journey into the gritty yet exhilarating realm of Weimar-era underground club culture. As the self-proclaimed Queen of Weimar Punk, Dieter and her electrifying presence, brings a salacious and gin-soaked extravaganza of unfiltered circus and cabaret to our shores, infused with the irreverent spirit of the 1920s. Through a fusion of dangerous acrobatics, fire-breathing antics and mesmerising musical performances, this show delivers an unforgettable spectacle that embodies the essence of top-tier cabaret entertainment. Book tickets here.
Martin Hayes and Guests — Auckland Town Hall
Renowned as one of the world’s foremost fiddlers and a luminary in Irish traditional music, Martin Hayes is set to grace the Auckland Town Hall with his unparalleled talent in celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day. Not only will Hayes (the founding member of the acclaimed Irish-American ensemble, The Gloaming) be bringing his virtuoso interpretation of Irish melodies to the stage, but he will be joined by esteemed musicians Brian Donnellan and Conal O’Kane, both alumni of The Tulla Ceìiliì Band. With his exquisite musicality and infectious rhythm, Hayes promises an evening of spellbinding Irish music, transporting audiences to the heart of the Emerald Isle. Book tickets here.
Tinfeny’s, a delicious new Cambodian restaurant set in the bustling heart of Ponsonby Central, is the work of a mother-daughter duo who wanted to bring the food they loved cooking at home to discerning Auckland diners. Inspired by their shared passion for Cambodian cuisine and their dream to open a restaurant together, Richny Hy and Felicity Keolay embarked on a journey to create Tinfeny’s — and it’s somewhere that should definitely be on your dining radar.
At Tinfeny’s, the menu is a celebration of Cambodian cuisine, offering a taste of traditional, home-cooked meals that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the country. Richny and Felicity meticulously drew on traditional recipes passed down through generations to create their dishes, marrying mouthwatering, unique flavours with authentic ingredients. Highlights include the Amok Trei, a delicately steamed fish infused with coconut custard and fragrant spices, and the Beef Lok Lak, a savoury stir-fry featuring tender eye fillet beef and Kampot pepper (sourced from Kampot province in Cambodia).
Creating an authentic Cambodian dining experience required attention to detail and time, from sourcing the right ingredients to perfecting the flavours. Since opening, Tinfeny’s has fast become a haven for Cambodian expatriates longing for the taste of home, as well as adventurous diners eager to explore the vibrant tapestry of Southeast Asian cuisine.
“We really just want to offer an authentic Cambodian experience, and to make Cambodian food more well-known in Auckland,” Felicity tells me. “Our restaurant has already brought in a lot of friendly Cambodian people that just miss the dishes they grew up with.”
In addition to its tantalising menu, Tinfeny’s boasts an impressive array of signature cocktails, expertly crafted in-house. Here, the selection is fresh, tasty and perfectly-curated to accompany the flavours of the food, from the Lychee Mule (a mix of vodka, lychee, lemongrass, lime and ginger beer) to the Coco Pandan Marg (marrying coconut tequila with pandan, Cointreau and lime).
The restaurant’s ambience, designed to reflect the warmth and hospitality of Cambodia, is relaxed and inviting with cosy seating arrangements and vibrant decor. A striking mural of Angkor Wat even adorns the walls, serving as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that inspired Tinfenys’ culinary journey.
Whether you’re a seasoned food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Tinfeny’s is inviting everyone to embrace the culinary traditions of Cambodia. At this new restaurant, expect good vibes, friendly staff, delicious food and tasty drinks — the perfect combination for any kind of lunch or dinner out.
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, 12pm — 3pm and 5pm — 9pm Friday to Sunday, 12pm — 9pm
Tinfeny's
Shop 15
Ponsonby Central
4 Brown Street, Ponsonby
Auckland
Head-to-toe, monochrome tones of white and cream will not only create crisp, confident looks but will add a touch of lightness to your style as we head into the cooler months. Here, we have rounded up a curation of ready-to-wear, shoes and accessories that will have you mastering this season’s modern monochrome, and promise to give your autumn wardrobe a necessary lift.
Taking the idea of a shared workspace and revolutionising it via careful, considered design and clever planning, Formery is emerging as a new hub of business in the heart of Auckland’s up-and-coming Midtown Precinct. A testament to modern office space redefined, Formery has been painstakingly developed by the team at Alberts (renowned for their transformative work on 1 Albert Street) and represents a $150 million endeavour to revolutionise the workplace experience for culture-led businesses seeking something that fits a range of requirements.
Comprising three, meticulously renovated buildings 87 Albert Street and spanning an impressive 14,500 square metres, Formery epitomises sustainable upcycling and eloquent redesign (where much of the existing fabric of the building has been utilised to exquisite effect). And while the development taps into the architectural heritage of Auckland, it is also uniquely positioned to fulfil the demands of contemporary businesses via its varied workspaces, high-tech meeting rooms, exclusive members’ Club lounge and plethora of food and hospitality offerings.
Inside, Formery is a seamless fusion of elegance and functionality. Led by local firm CTRL Space, the spaces here exude an inviting ambience where rich teal-blue panelling, warm oak flooring, and sumptuous leather accents are set against the raw industrial elements like stripped-back concrete and exposed ceilings, creating a harmonious blend of old-world charm and contemporary flair.
Coco Republic, renowned for their expertise in curated furnishings, was called on to bring Formery’s interior identity to life. With a focus on sophistication and character, the brand’s Senior Interior Designer, Georgina Holmes infused each space with eclectic charm, seamlessly transitioning between vintage-inspired pieces and modern accents. The result is an environment that transcends the traditional confines of corporate offices, inviting occupants to embrace creativity, collaboration and comfort.
This is in line with a central ethos of Formery — a commitment to fostering culture and connectivity. In fact, Founder of Alberts, Andrew Saunders envisions Formery as more than just a place of work but as a vibrant community hub where businesses of all sizes can thrive. Building upon the success of Auckland’s first private business members club at 1 Albert Street, Formery extends its offerings to cater to the evolving needs of modern enterprises.
“Auckland is well on its way to becoming a world-class international city, with masterful urban planning that will see it transform in the years to come,” he says. “Along with all the member benefits of 1 Albert — concierge, member’s lounge, hosted event spaces — we’ve designed Formery to give businesses smart solutions to foster culture and community, the bedrock of any hybrid working model.”
Alongside its impressive design and connected approach, what truly sets Formery apart is its unwavering dedication to sustainability. With a Net Building Score (NBS) of 100 percent and a sought-after NABERS rating target of 4.5, this development exemplifies eco-conscious design and operation. By repurposing existing infrastructure and implementing innovative sustainability measures, Alberts has ensured that tenants not only benefit from state-of-the-art facilities but also contribute to a greener future.
Ultimately, as Auckland’s Midtown district undergoes a renaissance, Formery stands as a beacon of progress and innovation. From its exceptional location in the heart of Midtown Auckland’s soon-to-be-complete Aotea Quarter, Formery will be within walking distance of The Green Link (a linear park connecting Victoria Park with Albert Park), as well as SkyCity, and Aotea Station (where, upon completion, up to 54,000 commuters are predicted to pass through per hour). Poised to become the epicentre of Auckland’s cultural and commercial resurgence and offer unparalleled accessibility and connectivity, Formery is already attracting forward-thinking businesses and professionals alike.
With spaces and memberships now available, Formery is encouraging entrepreneurs, innovators, and visionaries to join its ranks. Whether seeking a collaborative workspace or a sanctuary for focused productivity, this exceptional new development offers a haven where ambition meets opportunity.
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