Celebrating the beauty of serendipity, our winter issue is here

If there’s one person who epitomises the beauty of serendipity, it’s New Zealand-based Hollywood rising star Jess Hong. The lead actor in Netflix’s biggest show of the year, 3 Body Problem, was plucked from small-town New Zealand — the result of a serendipitous series of events, where everything fell into place to present the opportunity of a lifetime in the blockbuster series. Hong’s enigmatic personality shines on our cover, photographed at the picturesque Ayrburn precinct in Queenstown — the ultimate winter paradise. We could speak similarly of writer Trent Dalton‘s journey, who we talk to in our Culture section — his unfathomable upbringing setting the stage for his award-winning novels that deftly blend fact and fiction, one of which is now the basis of Netflix’s acclaimed series Boy Swallows Universe. While Chris Meehan, Winton founder and CEO and the developer behind Ayrburn, has a life story that is filled with serendipitous sliding door moments, but also a whole lot of grit, determination and hard work. Much like many others gracing this issue’s pages, his success lies in a unique ability to embrace the unknown, lean into opportunities, and ultimately, make his own luck.

In this issue, we also offer an extensive edit of everything worth enjoying this winter — from relishing Central Otago’s many spoils, to what to wear — both on and off the slopes, alongside a dedicated Watch and Jewellery special that is sure to inspire. You’ll find an extensive round-up of the many compelling reasons to get out of the house to support our local hospitality industry this winter, and, as always, we lay out the design trends worth buying into, the latest in Wellbeing, and a whole winter’s worth of books, films, shows, and live events to fill your cultural calendar.

If we have one hope for this issue, it’s that it inspires you to throw caution to the wind and step outside of your comfort zone (and the comfort of your home) this season. There’s so much to explore and experience in our corner of the world, and you never know what might come of it — serendipity has a way of favouring the curious.

Our Winter Issue is available at all good newsagents and supermarkets, or simply subscribe to the magazine below.

Coveted

Tiffany & Co.’s fall expression of Blue Book 2024: Tiffany Céleste, enlivens Jean Schlumberger’s boundless imagination
New & Noteworthy: Everything on our radar this week
Elevate your downtime with this stylish sleepwear collaboration

Fashion, food and fine jewels collide at Bivacco’s next ‘In Fashion’ event

Viaduct Harbour favourite Bivacco has long been one of our go-tos for after-work drinks or delicious weekend meals with friends. Now, the eatery has just released tickets for its third iteration of ‘In Fashion’ — drawing us down to the waterfront for a fabulous event showcasing Elle & Riley Cashmere and Partridge Jewellers.

Here, on Thursday 6th June, the Viaduct Harbour destination will play host to a fashion show by Elle & Riley and Partridge Jewellers and a special lunch where attendees are invited to indulge in an exceptional three-course shared menu featuring Bivacco’s signature dishes while immersing themselves in the elegance of Elle & Riley’s Winter 2024 collection of luxurious cashmere (shoppable on the day), perfectly complemented by Partridge Jewellers’ exquisite diamonds and fine jewellery.

Taking place from 12pm until 4pm, event-goers are invited to enjoy a three-course shared lunch of delicious dishes, as well as a flute of Moët & Chandon Champagne on arrival and a glass of Whispering Angel Rosé with lunch, as well as a curated selection of gifts to take home.

For lovers of fashion, food, and fine jewels, Bivacco’s ‘In Fashion’ event with Elle & Riley Cashmere and Partridge Jewellers is not to be missed, so gather your nearest and dearest and lock in your tickets early. Given the sell-out popularity of the past few years, we suggest securing a spot now. Tickets can be bought here for $125 per person.

This competition is now closed.

savor.co.nz/bivacco

Coveted

Tiffany & Co.’s fall expression of Blue Book 2024: Tiffany Céleste, enlivens Jean Schlumberger’s boundless imagination
New & Noteworthy: Everything on our radar this week
Elevate your downtime with this stylish sleepwear collaboration
Left: Founder of Bayside Rum Co. & Bar Manager at Ahi, Egor Petrov

Bar Magda is kicking off their third birthday celebrations with an epic cocktail evening with Egor Petrov of Bayside Rum Co.

One of our favourite eateries in the city, Bar Magda, is known for its exceptional new-wave Filipino fare (Carlo Buenaventura and his clever kitchen team never miss), but a perhaps lesser-known fact about the K-Road hotspot is that they know how to put on a damn good party.

In celebration of three great years in business, during which time they’ve firmly established themselves as one of Auckland’s most-loved venues, Bar Magda is hosting a month-long celebration filled with exceptional events not to be missed. To kick things off, Buenaventura has invited one of the city’s top mixologists, Ahi’s bar manager and founder of Bayside Rum Co., Egor Petrov, to join him on the 14th of June to host an evening of convivial cocktails, fantastic fare, and a rousing DJ set inspiring revellers to make a night of it.

On the food front, as always Buenaventura will be putting his best foot forward, serving up two courses comprised of four sharing plates that will be sure to surprise, delight, and satisfy — and pair perfectly with the inventive cocktails on offer.

Behind the bar, Petrov, who is known for his unique, creative and considered drinks, will join bar manager Matt Venables, crafting an edit of tropical-themed libations for the occasion. Each bespoke drink will marry the vibrant flavours of the Filipino cuisine Bar Magda harnesses so beautifully, with Bayside Rum Co.’s vibrant, locally-made rums, to create something truly novel and inspired.

Post-meal, come 9.30pm, a DJ will take to the decks and Bar Magda will throw open its doors, inviting those out and about in the city to come and experience Petrov’s creations, alongside four additional drink specials available for the evening — priced from a modest $12.

There’s a $60 per person minimum spend on the evening, and you can secure your spot here.

barmagda.co.nz

Gastronomy

Thursdays are the new Fridays — lock in a long lunch at this go-to eatery, now open for lunch two days a week
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries
Yet to make plans for the Melbourne Cup? This elevated event is just the ticket
Featuring KNOLL SAARINEN DINING TABLE & KLISMOS DINING CHAIR — both available from Studio Italia

Discover the story behind one of the world’s most iconic design brands, Knoll — and don’t miss this exclusive offer to add a piece to your collection

The epitome of revolutionary design, furnishings brand Knoll is renowned for its unprecedented, outside-the-box aesthetic that changes the way we think about furniture. A brand that continuously carves its own place in design history, its Knoll that can be trusted to deliver a stream of expertly crafted pieces that challenge the status quo.

It was a simple vision that inspired German-born designer Hans Knoll to move to New York City in 1938 and create his own furnishings brand: to create great designs that would enrich and improve people’s lives both at home and at work. A simple idea, but one which was executed superbly and in a way that no-one had quite managed before, it wasn’t long before the forward-thinking creative began making waves in the design sphere. In 1943, Knoll was joined by his wife, Florence, who crafted the now renowned Planning Unit, an interior plan that paved the way for offices for years to come. Not only the first office creation of its kind, but the first to be run by a woman, this was a profound moment that cemented the brand’s status as a revolutionary design force to be reckoned with, something which still rings true today.

From the coveted Platner set — a dining table and set of chairs that boast undulating shapes crafted by hundreds of curved steel rods, to the utterly iconic, leather upholstered Barcelona armchair, the unique, sculptural Bertoia collection, and the Bauhaus-inspired, instantly recognisable Cesca chair, with its sensual and simple curved steel frame and woven cane seat and back, Knoll’s designs have not only pushed the envelope in the world of modernist furniture design, but have proved enduring additions to home that are as desirable after years (or decades) of use as they are the day they’re purchased.

For those feeling inspired, locally Studio Italia stocks a wide variety of the brand’s original designs and is currently offering a rare discount that sees many of Knoll’s most iconic pieces reduced by up to 60 percent in-store. From the ever-enduring Wassily armchair to the Platner dining table and matching side chair, to the simple but stunning Saarinen side table, see this as your opportunity to secure a piece of history that will see you well into the future.

Shop Now
Our Editors’ Picks
KNOLL WASSILY ARMCHAIR from Studio Italia
KNOLL KLISMOS DINING CHAIR from Studio Italia
KNOLL SAARINEN DINING TABLE from Studio Italia
KNOLL FLORENCE KNOLL SOFA from Studio Italia
KNOLL CESCA DINING CHAIR from Studio Italia
KNOLL BARCELONA ARMCHAIR from Studio Italia
KNOLL KLISMOS BENCH from Studio Italia
KNOLL PANORAMIC SOFA from Studio Italia

studioitalia.co.nz/sale

Design

From saunas and ice baths to sleek at-home gyms — here’s the inspiration you need to create your own private practice
New & Noteworthy: Everything on our radar this week
From Alexander McQueen to Guo Pei, discover The Rug Company’s most covetable collaborative collections yet
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

Umbrella Etiquette: A civilised guide to staying dry this winter

We’re creeping towards June, and winter is beginning to make its presence known. Blustery showers and high winds have arrived, which means its time to finally bring out that trusty old umbrella that’s been sitting, unused, at the back of your wardrobe. But be warned, there is a protocol associated with these accessories that should be adhered to at all times. Don’t fret if you’ve forgotten — those that need a refresher course on the dos and don’ts of umbrella-wielding can consult our handy guide below.

Denizen Guide
Umbrella Etiquette

01.

When a shorter person is approaching, always, always be sure to raise your umbrella and allow them to pass through — making your tallness known by poking somebody in the eye during the morning commute isn’t a great way to start the day.

02.

We shouldn’t really have to tell you this, but be considerate when you open your umbrella. Carry out a 360-degree surveillance and be mindful of anyone who may be standing close to you.

03.

Don’t open your umbrella indoors. It’s not bad luck, it’s just rude.

04.

When you’re carting around a dry umbrella, never tuck it under your arm like an old gentleman nursing a folded newspaper. Unless you’re hoping to impale some pesky slow walkers or those who impatiently walk hot on your heels. In which case, go right ahead.

05.

Try to carry an umbrella that’s actually appropriate for your size — small humans do not bode well with golf umbrellas.

06.

When leaving the house, don’t surreptitiously swap your old umbrella with one broken rib in favour of your flatmates’ new Blunt. Umbrella shame is far more manageable than a broken friendship.

07.

Don’t ever parade your umbrella around while bursting into a spontaneous recital of ‘Singing In The Rain.’ Just don’t.

08.

Close your umbrella if you are walking under a public covering, even if you will be underneath for just a few moments.

09.

If you’re battling the rain alongside somebody else, even if its a friend-of-a-friend that you’re not overly keen on, swallow your pride and share your rain shield. There’s a special place in hell for those that don’t.

10.

When entering a building or any form of public transport, close your dripping umbrella and dispose of it discreetly. If it’s a building, station it in the stand or the designated umbrella home, usually found by the door. Do not leave it on any form of furniture.

Culture

Cause a stir at Halloween this year with these pop-culture-inspired costumes
Artist Jamie Te Heuheu on pressure, process, and what the future may hold
Celebrate Halloween at Ayrburn, where two epics events await
Illustration by Victoria Krylov

Head of the Table — The hospitality icons who have made life-long careers in the industry

Words by Margie Riddiford, Sjaan Askwith and Claire Sullivan-Kraus
Photography & Videography by Anna Saveleva

It’s a commonplace misconception that the vast and varied world of hospitality is merely a temporary career that coexists with travelling the world, or studying. Yet the multi-billion dollar industry has also born some of our fondest personalities, along with some of our country’s greatest entrepreneurial success stories. Here, we set out to challenge perceptions by introducing some of the icons of the industry. Those who have chosen to dedicate their careers to bringing joy and elevating our own lives by sharing their passion for hospitality.

Many of us have been there; working at the local cafe, waiting tables in a fine dining restaurant, pouring beers behind the bar at a pub, or flipping burgers at a takeaway joint. Considered somewhat of a right of passage from school to career, working in hospitality is in fact a fast track education into understanding how the real world operates. Here, expectations run high and the pressure is always on, but when harmony is achieved the result is incredibly rewarding. People are drawn to the industry for the camaraderie, the building of self-confidence, the sparking of creativity and the connections that are made. There’s no denying the magic that comes from a full bar or dining room that’s humming with the energy of people enjoying themselves — all thanks to the efforts of a well conducted team of passionate people. This alone can sow the seed for future success. In New Zealand the $20+ billion dollar industry employs more than 200,000 people, making it one of our country’s largest business sectors, which in turn makes the opportunities for a lifelong, and fruitful career even greater. Still, there is a perception that it is there to serve as a transitory workplace while you’re figuring out where your real future lies. Yet stories of both success and satisfaction are everywhere. Be it as a chef, bartender, front of house, behind the scenes, a restaurant owner, or anything in between, within so many bustling kitchens and vibrant venues there are opportunities for connection, confidence, creativity, skill, and, most importantly: a career brimming with potential. The beauty of working in hospitality is that there’s not a formulaic, one-track path to success. A foot in the door is all you need, and once you’re in, skills build and, given their universality, can be easily transferred from one role to the next as your confidence and success grows. Pivoting through the industry until the right role clicks is part of the journey. To show just how true this is in practice, and how a career can grow from a simple weekend gig washing dishes, we sat down with some of Auckland’s hospitality icons to hear how they turned a passion into a craft, and a craft into a rewarding career. 

Read their stories
Head of the Table

Gastronomy

Thursdays are the new Fridays — lock in a long lunch at this go-to eatery, now open for lunch two days a week
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries
Yet to make plans for the Melbourne Cup? This elevated event is just the ticket

High on the 90s — shop our edit of the small bags having a big impact this season

They say that the best things come in small packages, and in our experience, this is true for more than just sparkling things in tiny boxes. This season, small bags are taking centre stage, continuing to showcase why 90s-era style is here to stay. 

GIVENCHY Voyou shoulder bag from Net-a-Porter
Celine CLUTCH ON STRAP TABOU from Faradays
SERPENTI BAIA SHOULDER BAG from Bulgari
Croissant MM Bag from Louis Vuitton

JACKIE SMALL SHOULDER BAG from Gucci
STAUD Alec Bag from Muse
Sardine With Chain bag from Bottega Veneta
SAINT LAURENT Le 5 à 7 mini shoulder bag from Net-a-Porter

Coveted

Tiffany & Co.’s fall expression of Blue Book 2024: Tiffany Céleste, enlivens Jean Schlumberger’s boundless imagination
New & Noteworthy: Everything on our radar this week
Elevate your downtime with this stylish sleepwear collaboration
Sicilian Sausage and Pepperoni

The dynamic duo behind Gloria’s and Céleste are set to alight our tastebuds with an utterly delicious and traditional pizza pop-up

Having established themselves as the purveyors of cool at their neo-bistro, Céleste, on Auckland’s K-Road, owners Nick Landsman and Emma Ogilvie are temporarily pivoting away from their French-inspired menu and instead offering their take on New Haven-style pizza.

With an interest in the age-old pizza style that began during the lockdowns, chef Chef Nick Landsman has been perfecting his pizza-making ever since. A testament to this now well-honed craft is the delicious pizza al taglio (pizza-by-the-slice) served at their super popular Gloria’s Deli outpost in Commercial Bay.  

Sicilian Sausage

New Haven-style pizza was born and raised in New Haven, Connecticut, in the late nineteenth century, when an influx of Italian immigrants arrived, mainly from Naples. In the early twentieth century, New Haven had the highest per-capita Italian American population of any city in America. What they brought from the homeland was what they commonly referred to as an ‘apizza’, pronounced ‘ah-beetz,’ in a nod to their Neapolitan dialect. 

New Haven pizza is closer to what was originally made in Naples. It’s distinctive for its thin, crispy, and remarkably light crust. The longer cooking time allows the simple ingredients to meld into a complex and irresistible flavour that is more than the sum of its parts. New Haven-style pizza is a hotter, crispier, and tastier descendant of Neapolitan-style pizza. 

Front to back: Pepperoni and Sicilian Sausage

Globally, this style has developed a cult following among pizza enthusiasts, and Landsman and Ogilvie are excited to bring this traditional technique to pizza-loving New Zealanders, where ‘thin and crispy’ can often have negative connotations. 

“We’re hoping to change that perception,” says Ogilvie. “Our goal is to introduce people to a deliciously and truly traditional pizza cooking technique that we’re sure they will love.”

Pepperoni

Given the success of their other operations, we have no doubt that their recipe for a fun neighbourhood pizzeria will be a success. The thought of hot, crispy, authentic (and affordable) pizza as the weather chills seems like the perfect alternative to actually getting on a plane to Naples. 

The Pizzeria Céleste popup is open from 5pm Tuesday through to Saturday, serving pizza alongside an expertly curated list of organic wines. And for those who want to stay home, they also offer takeout pizza alongside takeaway wines.

Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday — 5pm until late

barceleste.com

Pizzeria Céleste

146 Karangahape Road
Auckland CBD

Gastronomy

Thursdays are the new Fridays — lock in a long lunch at this go-to eatery, now open for lunch two days a week
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries
Yet to make plans for the Melbourne Cup? This elevated event is just the ticket

Denizen’s guide to the best private dining rooms in town

We’re spoiled for choice when it comes to dedicated spaces for a more intimate gastronomic experience in Auckland. No matter the occasion, there’s sure to be a private dining room that suits your needs, so next time you need to book somewhere for a group, we’ve got you covered with our extensive guide to the best private dining rooms in town.


The Chef’s Library at The Hotel Britomart

Nestled in the heart of Hotel Britomart is The Libraries, a space that assumes literary comforts and leisure. Here there is an air of unpretentious exclusivity, where even in the middle of the city you couldn’t feel more removed from the world if you tried. The Libraries are not open to the general public to walk-in (they do not operate as a restaurant) however they are available for private events and functions, with tailor-made solutions to cater to any need. The crown jewel The Chefs Library (table), which is available for private dinners for up to eight people, making it perfect for an intimate and memorable affair.

Location: 29 Galway Street, Britomart
Suitable For: 8 guests for degustation or family-style dining, 6 guests for cabaret

Click here to book now

Metita Private Dining Space

Metita

Recently opened within the SkyCity precinct, Metita occupies the space formerly home to beloved Gusto at The Grand, and it’s fair to say that the newcomer is already living up to the iconic nature of its address. Here, the offering is a new take on South Pacific cuisine, elevating traditional dishes with modern culinary techniques, inspiring a deeper reverence for our own heartland and connection to Meredith’s native Samoa. The concise, considered and experimental menu brings together a plethora of textures, flavours and techniques, calling on a unique ingredients list to deliver something truly groundbreaking, from paua served with ulu, paneer and burnt orange to fire-roasted Tua Tua served with okra and harissa. When a special occasion is on the horizon, those looking for an intimate dining space to bring people together should look no further than Metita’s exceptionally well-appointed private dining room. The space seats up to 26, but can just as easily cater to small numbers, and brings the very best of Metita’s food offering and interiors into focus to create a seriously memorable affair.

Location: SkyCity, 90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: seats up to 26 guests

Click here to book now

Beachside Private Dining at Azabu Mission Bay

Azabu Mission Bay

The perfect beachside location for an end-of-year get-together, Azabu Mission Bay offers completely private dining in its adjacent Stonehouse or semi-private events in its open courtyard. From formal, sit-down dinners to casual drinks, this versatile venue offers a space for any kind of occasion.

Location: 44 Tamaki Drive, Mission Bay
Suitable For: Stonehouse — 40 (seated) to 60 (standing) guests, The Courtyard — up to 60 guests (standing), Venue Exclusive — up to 200 guests

Click here to book now

Private Dining at Le Bar, Origine at Commercial Bay

Le Mezzanine at Origine

Tucked above the grand dining room of Commercial Bay’s elevated French restaurant Origine, is a space perfect for an intimate gathering. La Mezzanine’s after-dark vibe, soft lighting and exceptional views over Downtown Auckland will set the perfect tone for a night with friends, one that will inevitably end in some convivial fun.

Location: Commercial Bay, Level 2/172 Quay Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: up to 50 guests

Click here to book now

Soul Bar & Bistro

A long-time go-to for corporate lunches and long-overdue catch-ups alike, bigger parties can also enjoy a ‘private’ piece of Soul by closing the bi-fold doors to what is usually the cocktail lounge. It’s perfect for seated parties that can indulge in Executive Chef Gavin Doyle’s fine cuisine via a set menu. Larger parties, on the other hand, can use the same space while also spilling out onto the famous deck and bar area for standing events.

Location: Viaduct Harbour, Corner of Lower Hobson Street &, Customs Street West, Auckland City
Suitable For: up to 30 guests seated or 35 – 100 standing for cocktails and canapés

Click here to book now

Jervois Steak House Private Dining Room

Jervois Steak House

The private dining room at Jervois Steak House is located upstairs in the restaurant. The interior blends rustic elements from the building’s original heritage with modern warm tones & James Russ lighting. Relax into plush leather seating in a bespoke tan hue (called ‘Jervois Molasses’), and enjoy an authentic steakhouse experience for any special occasion.

Location: 70 Jervois Road, Ponsonby
Suitable For: up to 12 seated guests

Click here to book now or call (09) 376 2049

Kingi

Set just across from Kingi’s main dining room is the restaurant’s private dining and meeting space, designed to bring people together for a feast or to do business. A light-filled space anchored by a breathtaking raw-edge swamp kauri slab table underneath a shimmering fish-scale chandelier, the room gives diners a unique view into the Kingi kitchens as the chefs prepare seasonal dishes, creating an immersive dining experience. At the room’s north end, a wooden sideboard conceals a 65″ screen, which can be used to host board-style meetings, intimate product launches or special presentations. The space is equipped with high-speed internet connectivity and state-of-the-art AV facilities, making it an ideal location for productive business meetings. Whatever your requirements are, Kingi Private is the perfect, multi-faceted space.

Location: Tuawhiti Lane, 29 Galway Street, Britomart
Suitable For: 14 guests for degustation

Click here to book now

Masu Private Dining at SkyCity

Masu

The outstanding inner-city Japanese restaurant offers a couple of different options if you’d like to go for a slightly more intimate experience. The Obi Room is a striking, semi-private space anchored by a solid wood table crafted from two pieces of suar hardwood and earthen walls decorated with spectacular vintage Japanese obi kimono prints. The Obi Room is framed by bubble glass which creates the impression of privacy and seclusion without being completely separated from the main dining area.

Otherwise, opt for the Chef’s Kotastu Table, another semi-private area set at the back of the main dining room and backdropped by the restaurant’s single piece of art, a large Japanese Dragon created by calligraphy master artist Ushio Sekiguchi.

Location: SkyCity, 90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: The Obi Room — up to 18 guests, Chef’s Kotastu Table — 8 to 10 people

Click here to book now

Bar Magda

Bar Magda’s exclusive new private dining room, is a sanctuary of elegance. Thoughtfully and comfortably furnished, this secluded enclave is the perfect choice for corporate soirées or special celebrations like birthdays, where guests can enjoy Bar Magda’s impeccable service and indulge in the finest cuisine, knowing that every detail has been meticulously curated to meet expectations.

Location: 25b Cross Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: up to 25 seated guests or if extended into the bistro, 50-60 guests

Click here to book now

Huami Private Dining Rooms

Huami

Huami offers several different and equally appealing options for those wishing to dine in privacy. The Chinese restaurant, which boasts traditional cuisine with a modern twist, has three elegant private dining rooms. Rooms one and two seat 12 guests each and are adjoining, but can be divided. Room three caters up to six guests.

Location: SkyCity, 87 Federal Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: 6 to 12 guests seated

Click here to book now

Cassia Private Events and Dinners

Cassia

Cassia’s new home at SkyCity boasts several options for Private dining and events.

The main private dining area seats up to 20 people and is fully equipped for presentations. A large flat screen TV and connections enable the private dining space to be converted into a professional area to share ideas with business colleagues.

For larger groups of up to 40 guests, the mezzanine area is the perfect location for your next group booking. For all bookings for groups of 13 or more, Cassia offers a selection of set menus that can be tailored to suit your group’s requirements. 

Location: SkyCity, 90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: private celebrations & events of up to 20 people, & group dinners of up to 40 people

Click here to book now

Non Solo Pizza's Courtyard for Private Dining Events

Non Solo Pizza

With one of the city’s best courtyards, plus a private dining room to boot, Parnell institution NSP has all your bases covered for your next private event. The modern Italian menu is sure to impress, as are the carefully crafted cocktails.

Location: 1052/259 Parnell Road, Parnell
Suitable For: Courtyard — 100 standing or 50 seated, Private Dining Room — 40 standing or 30 seated

Click here to book now

Ebisu's Private Dining Room

Ebisu

Fans of Ebisu’s exceptional Japanese cuisine will be pleased to know the downtown favourite also offers private dining. Filled with natural light, the Nikko Courtyard features huge warehouse windows overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, a perfect space for a seated dinner or cocktail party.

Location: 116 – 118 Quay Street, Britomart
Suitable For: up to 30 guests

Click here to book now

Sìso

If it’s a cosy, intimate vibe you’re after, look no further than the private space at Remuera’s Mediterranean favourite. Sìso’s elevated take on the laid-back local has made it an instant hit with Auckland’s most discerning diners. A night here promises great food and an even better atmosphere.

Location: 311 Remuera Road, Remuera
Suitable For: parties of up to 10

Click here to book now

The Sugar Club

The Sugar Club’s private dining room has the best view in town, boasting the highest harbour views from within Auckland’s CBD. A seasonally changing menu is on offer, along with the option to include the stunning bar space for pre or post-dining drinks and snacks. For larger groups, you can hire a ‘section’ of the restaurant exclusively, offering a set menu, along with wine match options, and for standing events canapés packages are also available.

Location: SkyCity, Corner of Federal & Victoria Streets, Level 53, Sky Tower, Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: Private Dining Room — up to 12 guests, Main Dining Room — up to 32 guests

Click here to book now or call (09) 363 6365

Somm Cellar Door Semi-Private Area

Somm Cellar Door

Tucked away to the east of Somm Cellar Door is the venue’s lush & gorgeous semi-private area. This space is cleverly tucked behind the venue’s cellar, which displays an impressive array of library and large-format wines. The room is draped in heavy set ‘cabernet’ curtains which when drawn instantly transform the space into the cosiest of settings.

Location: Shed 22 Princes Wharf, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: up to 12 guests

Click here to book now

Esther

Catering to groups of all sizes Viaduct Harbour restaurant Esther (housed in the QT Hotel) boasts a number of private dining options for those looking for somewhere special. Its Limáni dining rooms provide warm, high-ceilinged spaces bathed in beautiful light, where diners will be treated to Esther’s signature, locally-grown European-style flavours via sharable feasts or tasting menus created by the restaurant’s Head Chef, Sean Connolly.

Location: 4 Viaduct Harbour Avenue, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: from 17 to 60 guests

Click here to book now

Onemata

The Park Hyatt Auckland’s new flagship restaurant isn’t just the place for an exceptional meal, it also plays host to discerning private groups, be it for business or pleasure. Choose from three menus to suit your group, each including a selection of small, large and dessert dishes.

Location: Park Hyatt, 99 Halsey Street, Auckland CBD
Suitable For: up to 12 guests

Click here to book now

The business of fashion: dress for success with our latest shopping edit

Get ahead of your competitors and dress to command the respect you deserve in the business world. For reimagined work attire, opt for chic takes on coats paired with silk shirts, skirts, and pants.

Pleated Flared Pants from Dior
b.Ziro necklace from Bulgari
Christopher Esber Talus Tailored Coat from Muse
Diamond Tilda Sling Back 45 from Jimmy Choo
Pasquale Bruni GIARDINI SEGRETI EARRINGS from Hartfield
Celine CLASSIC JACKET from Faradays
VLogo Moon bag from Valentino
Rolex DAY-DATE 40 watch from Partridge

Lavaliere collar jacket from Louis Vuitton
Solo Flex’it Chocker Necklace from Partridge
SHINY LEATHER MID-LENGTH SKIRT from Gucci
Cartier TANK AMÉRICAINE WATCH from Partridge
MACKAGE Carmela leather trench coat from Net-a-Porter
Nanis Libera Hoop Earrings from Orsini
VERSACE Leather straight-leg pants from Net-a-Porter
VICTORIA BECKHAM Darted Sleeve Tailored Jacket from Muse

Magic Alhambra long necklace from Van Cleef & Arpels
Kid mohair single-breasted jacket from Prada
CELINE ALMA TRIOMPHE SLINGBACK from Faradays
Skort with CD Buckle from Dior
EXTRA FINE RIB CASHMERE KNIT TOP from Gucci
LOEWE Puzzle Edge Small Bag from Faradays
BOTTEGA VENETA BV 1283 001 from Sunglass bar
BY MALENE BIRGER Tinley Wool Cardigan from Muse

Coveted

Tiffany & Co.’s fall expression of Blue Book 2024: Tiffany Céleste, enlivens Jean Schlumberger’s boundless imagination
New & Noteworthy: Everything on our radar this week
Elevate your downtime with this stylish sleepwear collaboration