Ecostore has unveiled a sleek new look and a range of hand and body washes, featuring a fresh new packaging design and luscious new scents. And, while the packaging may look different, the formulas within contain the same luxurious plant and mineral-based, skin and planet-friendly ingredients we’ve come to know and love, housed in recycled eco-conscious packaging.
The new, plant and mineral-based hand and body washes feature hydrating harakeke (New Zealand flax) with a soft lather that will gently cleanse, nourish and condition your skin without stripping natural oils. The body wash is enriched with shea butter for a touch of everyday indulgence.
With an alluring array of new scents to choose from, including uplifting peony and guava and sandalwood and amber, these cleansers, which are both gentle on skin and the environment, are the perfect way to wash the day away.
Ecostore is a Certified B Corp and a Toitu net carbon zero certified organisation, with products made in New Zealand; it’s refined new look and elevated new multi-dimensional fragrances only furthering the brand’s standing in efficacious and eco-conscious body care.
Trenzseater, driven by the vision of interior designer Ben Lewis, has luxurious illumination down to a fine art. From sophisticated chandeliers to lighting that leaps out, Trenzseater’s unique and thoughtfully curated selection of wall adornments reminds us to think outside the box when it comes to finishing touches.
bomma dark & bright star pendants
And while, given the breath of the selection, there are countless exceptional lights to choose from, for us, one brand stands out for its unwavering dedication to creativity and craft. Paying homage to traditional glass-making techniques, with distinctive lighting crafted with diverse, design-led spaces in mind, Bomma (available exclusively through Trenzseater) enlivens the form and character of light itself, creating alluring lines of illumination and casting any space in an enchanting glow.
Below, we round up the pieces that have our attention, from the fluid Flare Chandelier — a design that pays homage to traditional glassmaking techniques, to the Ama Pendant, its form visually evoking the delicate shells of mussels that produce treasured pearls.
And, while the design destination is undoubtedly adept in the art of illumination, the experience extends to all corners of the home — a standing now reflected, in Ben Lewis’ winning an award for his residential interior design work in the prestigious International Design & Architecture Awards. Judged by an acclaimed global panel, this achievement is a testament to Trenzseater’s passion for interior design, demonstrating Lewis and his team’s commitment to delivering projects of exceptional quality.
Tiffany & Co.’s Blue Book collections are the brand’s highest evolution of jewellery — limited edition or one-of-a-kind pieces that encapsulate every element of the 187 year old maison’s prowess; that of gemstone sourcing from around the globe, a design language that has been in development for nearly two centuries, and a level of craftsmanship that rivals that of the greatest ateliers of Place Vendôme in Paris. (The fact that the collection is named for the original catalogue from the company — the first ‘mail order catalogue’ in the world, first sent out in 1845, is lost on most customers these days.)
Reese Witherspoon and her daughter Ava Philippe
This year, the first of three phases of 2024’s Blue Book collection, ‘Tiffany Celéste’, was launched in Los Angeles at the Beverly Estate, an extraordinary 1930s party palace that was once inhabited by actress Marion Davies and her partner William Randolph Hearst. With its sweeping gardens and cascading pools, the peachy hued property was transformed into Tiffany & Co.’s own home for the evening, with a sparkling guest list that included Reese Witherspoon and her daughter Ava Philippe, Elsa Hosk, Emily Blunt and Suki Waterhouse.
Olivia Wilde
Suki Waterhouse
Elsa Hosk
Emily Blunt
The first phase, like the two that will follow, is inspired by the great Tiffany & Co. designer Jean Schlumberger’s interpretations of all things celestial — from the moon and stars to distant galaxies. Given the vast archives on Schlumberger’s work at the house, including countless sketches and unrealised designs, Nathalie Verdeille, the company’s Chief Artistic Officer of Jewellery and High Jewellery – had plenty to work with.
In the ‘Wings’ chapter, Schlumberger’s beloved wing motif and the winged horse Pegasus of Greek mythology who lives on as a constellation inspire feather and wing-shaped patterns that at times sweep or swirl around larger central stones, with warm, yellow gold accents to highlight all those white diamonds set in white gold, and the occasional deep blue sapphire.
The Iconic Star necklace from the Blue Book 2024: Tiffany Celéste Collection
In the ‘Constellation’ chapter, rare star sapphires — cabochon-cut stones with an ‘asterism’ that gives them a unique reflection — are mixed with traditional sapphires and diamonds in a pair of earrings that could map the night sky, while in ‘Apollo’, the original Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co. ‘Apollo’ brooch, pavé-set diamond motifs are all but caged within yellow gold claws across bangles, earrings, necklaces and rings, giving them a retro-futuristic feel only enhanced by the astute placement of gleaming yellow diamonds.
The Apollo earrings, necklace and ring from the Blue Book 2024: Tiffany Celéste Collection
Elsewhere, extraordinary ‘freeform’ aquamarines – stones that haven’t been traditionally cut and faceted but instead tumbled and polished to create mesmerizing limpid, organic forms — combine with sapphires, zircons, mother of pearl and diamonds in extra-terrestrial looking pieces fit for an intergalactic queen, while vibrant red spinel, in luscious raspberry tones, is the hero gem in the ‘Ray of Light Chapter’, which culminates in one extraordinary necklace that transforms into a tiara.
Tiffany necklace that transforms into a tiara from the Blue Book 2024: Tiffany Celéste Collection
Such was Schlumberger’s output and genius during his time at Tiffany & Co., there’s no threat of his work ever ceasing to inspire the contemporary creations — and thank god for that — we earthlings are in awe.
Loud in atmosphere and huge in personality, Rosie’s Red-Hot Cantina is Auckland’s newest Cali-Mexican eatery, showcasing the best of California’s vibrant coast and LA’s street scene in a lively locale in Viaduct Harbour.
Left: Guacamole with salsa roja and corn chips. Right: Rosie’s slushy margs
Inspired by the fictional character of Rosie — a traveller who landed on the West Coast and couldn’t bring herself to leave, Red-Hot is a cantina that buzzes with energy from lunchtime to late. Taking up residence in the iconic Viaduct corner location formerly home to Coops Corner Pub, the eatery boasts bold décor, indoor and outdoor seating with sweeping waterfront views, and a private function room for party people — complete with its own bar.
With a menu that spans burgers to tacos (Birra included), chicken wings to ceviche, beers to frozen margaritas — the laid-back new eatery (which also has an outpost on Wellington’s waterfront) is an ideal spot to grab a bite and beverage with friends, leaving suitably satisfied every time.
Back to front: Rosie’s Best-in-Town Chicken Wings and Chilli Con Queso with a slushy marg
On the food front, the white corn tortilla tacos are and essential order, with pork belly, baja fish, lamb, cauliflower, and cheeto chicken all on offer (the latter are a must-try for adventerous gastronomes, pairing schmaltz-dipped habanero tender with shredded cabbage, Calexican mayo, pickled daikon and, you guessed it — Flamin’ Hot Cheetos). On the sharing plates menu, you’ll find Rosie’s signature guacamole, the ‘best in town’ chicken wings — served with Calexican buffalo sauce, sesame, radish, and Xiannaise, and chilli con queso — a tasty melted cheese and chilli pepper dip.
Chocolate Lava Cake
While, on the drinks menu you’ll find many an ice cold beer, a few tap cocktails (and a few shaken classics, too) and a comprehensive wine list, but the real pièce de résistance (and reason alone for a visit) is the eatery’s frozen slushy margaritas. With an ever-changing rota of flavours, these convivial cocktails are sure to satisfy — particularly across the warmer months and are a must-try, pairing perfectly with the fresh and filling food on offer. Or, if it’s a more traditional riff you’re craving, you’ll find three margaritas available on the rocks too. There’s also sangria and troves of tequila — available as is, by the bottle, or as a tasting flight.
Ultimately Rosie’s Red-Hot Cantina offers a lively and laid-back centre-city eatery in which friends or family can come together over great food and drinks, guaranteeing a good time.
Opening hours: Monday — Sunday, 11.30am until late
There is a gastronomic experience that should be on your radar this spring, with 70 exceptional events taking place across 60 days — at 18 of the city’s best venues. We’re talking about The Savor Food Festival — set to dominate our culinary calendars in the coming months, offering fanatical foodies a full slate of unmissable events, brought to you by the hospitality maestros at Savor Group.
Epic lunch and dinner deals are sure to inspire indulgence — with something for every taste, proclivity and occasion. From day to night, casual to well-heeled, quiet bites to uproarious celebrations. You can expect guest chefs and star mixologists to be on top form, winemakers and artists ready to captivate, and a number of Auckland’s favourite dining destinations ready to pull out all of the stops.
To give you a taste of what’s to come, renowned Australian guest chefs Frank Camorra and Big Sam Young are flying in for the occasion, along with a number of exceptional winemakers, designers and a few novelists set to make an appearance. From wagyu tastings at Ebisu, to unlimited pinchos at MoVida to the chance to win a diamond at Bivacco’s Ladies Lunch, and with over 70 events to choose from, there’s no shortage of opportunities for indulgence, and with $35 lunches, $55 dinners, and $15 cocktails available across the entirety of spring, there’s no excuse for staying home.
Savor’s Spring Food Festival promises to surprise, delight and captivate this spring, and throughout the festival, consider Denizen your go-to resource for what’s on and when. Below is a snapshot of what’s to come, including a few unmissable events we suggest securing your tickets to, stat, before they sell out.
Savor Food Fest 2024
Secure Your Spot
Dinner with John Kirwan at Amano
An Evening with Sir John Kirwan
When & Where:Monday the 19th of August at Amano Tickets:book here
Indulge in a delectable dinner with Sir John Kirwan at Amano, where an exclusive dining experience will see guests enjoy a family-style, four-course dinner featuring Sir John Kirwan’s JK.14 wines paired with exceptional local produce by Amano’s Executive Chef Andrew Hanson.
Bottomless Long Lunch
When & Where: Weekly, from the 17th of August — 29th of September at Non Solo Pizza Tickets:book here
NSP’s famed Long Lunch has gone bottomless. The lively eatery’s infamous Italian Long Lunch is a more than perfect way to spend a leisurely weekend afternoon, and during the Spring Festival, you can amp the convivial affair up with the addition of $49 bottomless prosecco. Here, enjoy a 3-course meal for $55 per person, alongside bottomless deals for prosecco, and a selection of Spring Spritzes. Sublime.
Bivacco Sunday Feast
The Sunday Feast with Jazz
When & Where: Weekly, from the 18th of August — 6th of October at Bivacco Tickets:book here
Make for Bivacco on Sundays to enjoy generous stations loaded with your favourite dishes and unlimited plates, plus live jazz from a local trio. Take advantage of drink specials, including champagne deals and $15 cocktails, as you end the week in satiating style, relishing the eatery’s perfect blend of great food, refreshing drinks, and live music.
Diamond Ladies Lunch
When & Where: Weekly, Monday — Saturday, from the 12th of August at Bivacco Tickets:book here
While the festival is running across eight glorious weeks, diamonds are forever, so don’t miss your chance to win a striking sparkler from Partridge Jewellers. Running Monday through Saturday from 11am — 3pm, Bivacco’s Diamond Ladies Lunch offers a relaxed lunch for a modest $45, which includes a glass of Cloudy Bay Pelorus and an entry into weekly prize draws.
When: Available at select Savor venues from August 12th Where:Bivacco, Non Solo Pizza, MoVida, Ebisu, Ortolana, Azabu Ponsonby & Azabu Mission Bay
Celebrate the Savor Food Festival with a selection of familiar favourites and inventive new dishes at Bivacco, NSP, MoVida, Ebisu, Ortolana, Azabu Ponsonby, Azabu Mission Bay.
When: Sundays from 18th August — 29th September Where:Azabu Mission Bay
Sundays are sorted for the next 60 days at Azabu’s Mission Bay outpost, where you’ll find an exclusive platter to share featuring locally sourced meats from the robata grill, signature sushi, sashimi, and Azabu ceviche. Pair your meal with the lively eatery’s cocktail, wine, and beer specials from 11am — 3pm, and end the week in satiating style.
When: Saturdays from 31st August — 21st September Where:Ebisu
This is fresh at its best. Make for Ebisu, where, every Saturday a Japanese-style buffet with unlimited fresh sushi, sashimi, and crispy salads awaits. Enjoy champagne deals and $15 cocktails to complement your meal, as, from 12pm — 4pm, you indulge in the ultimate sushi feast.
Savor Food Fest 2024
Drinks & Dining Specials
$10 Peroni’s at Amano, Non Solo Pizza, Bar Non Solo & Bivacco
When:From August 12th Where:Amano, Non Solo Pizza, Bar Non Solo & Bivacco
Across the festival’s entirety, sip on ice-cold Peroni at Amano, Non Solo Pizza, Bar Non Solo, and Bivacco, for a modest $10 a pop. The ultimate in spring satiation.
When:From August 12th Where:Ebisu, Azabu Ponsonby & Azabu Mission Bay
Or, if Asahi’s super dry rice lager is your go-to libation, at Ebisu and Azabu’s Ponsonby and Mission Bay outposts, you’ll find $10 Asahi across August and September.
When:From August 12th Where:Amano, Non Solo Pizza, Bar Non Solo, Bivacco, Ebisu, Azabu Ponsonby, Azabu Mission Bay, MoVida & Ortolana
Throughout the festival, those partial to a crisp glass of Moet et Chandon will find $17 flutes and $99 bottles at all participating venues (except Azabu Misson Bay, who will be pouring Mumm at the same price).
When:From August 12th Where:Amano, Non Solo Pizza, Bar Non Solo, Bivacco, Ebisu, Azabu Ponsonby, Azabu Mission Bay, MoVida & Ortolana
Across many of the exceptional venues participating in the festival (a full list can be found here), revellers are invited to enjoy a selection of $15 cocktails all day, every day.
When:Weekly from 17th of August — 29th September Where:Bar Non Solo
At Bar Non Solo — the city’s unofficial (but undisputed) home of pizza and pasta, you’ll find a rotating edit of new pasta dishes across the festival, with a new flavour joining the fold weekly, available for a modest $20 come lunchtime. Bellissimo.
Amano Bakery’s serving up new creations every week
When:Weekly from 17th of August — 29th September Where:Amano Bakery
Amano, is serving up a new creation from the bakery every week for eight weeks, kicking off on August 17th. Indulge in eight exquisite new creations — four sweet and four savoury, unveiled weekly on Mondays via Instagram, and available exclusively at Amano Bakery.
There’s never a shortage of reasons to visit Ayrburn, from the stunning grounds to the exceptional hospitality to the ever-lively vibe, and this winter, the precinct has a full rota of exciting goings-on to make a trip all the more alluring.
With the spectacular mid-winter Christmas spectacle still taking over the grounds (and our social calendars), this month sees a number of events that are sure to inspire indulgence.
Christmas High Tea in the Woolshed
Christmas High Tea in The Woolshed
When: July 27th, 10am — 12pm, The Woolshed Bookings:book tickets here
An elevated affair to remember, Ayrburn have teamed up with local fashion designer Caitlin Crisp for a magical morning filled with festive cheer at the Christmas High Tea in The Woolshed. Here, guests are invited to indulge in seasonal treats, from traditional mince pies to luxurious sandwiches, paired perfectly with a selection of beverages, with all of those in attendance in to win a luxurious Caitlin Crisp winter cashmere bundle.
The Barrel Room Concert Nights
When: July 24th & 31st, The Barrel Room Bookings:book tickets here
Relax in the underground mystic charm of The Barrel Room while enjoying intimate and enchanting live music. From the dulcet tunes of native New Yorker Margaret O’Hanlon who, on July 24th, will bring the Big Apple to life in a wintery tour of New York’s most iconic names (Frank Sinatra, Alicia Keys, and Billy Joel, to name a few), to Charlotte Graf’s ‘Blue Christmas’ show, where rock and roll meets Tinseltown on July 31st, Ayrburn presents two alluring reasons to emerge from winter hibernation.
Après-ski at Ayrburn’s Manure Room
Après-ski at Ayrburn
When: Now until September 22nd, The Manure Room at Ayrburn Bookings:book here
With rousing DJ sets, winter specials, and delicious food, Ayrburn has become the home of Après, inviting slope-goers to round off the day well with daily drink deals from 4pm, food specials to refuel post-exertion, and, come Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, DJs taking to the decks to get the party started.
Bringing the whimsy and wonder of Van Cleef & Arpel’s captivating timepieces to life, the maison’s Poetry of Time Exhibition — on now until the end of the month in Melbourne’s Chadstone shopping centre — delves into the storied jeweller’s history, exploring its most emblematic sources of inspiration via a dazzling display of 40 exquisite timepieces.
Here, horologists and novices alike will discover a poetic universe, encompassing three unique worlds the maison holds dear: Love Stories, Enchanting Nature, and Poetic Astronomy. Each theme is enlivened by the bespoke timepieces, with time taking on new meaning as it’s depicted by not dials dictating hours and minutes, but the enchanting, graceful movements of nature, feminine figures, and love stories.
Fairies and ballerinas tick away the hours, while the rhythm of nature meets the cadence of the cosmos, as each timepiece relates a tale of grace and enchantment. At the crossroads of inventiveness and fantasy, VCA’s creations interpret the measurement of time as an invitation to imagine, dream and rejoice.
Beyond gazing at the watches, which is reason enough to visit, the exhibition also presents an opportunity to craft a love story of your own, with the option to write and post a heartfelt letter to a loved one whilst there, with a bespoke Van Cleef & Arpels’ postcard inspired by the striking Parisians cityscape timepiece.
This incredible watch, in fact, is perhaps the exhibition’s most striking feature, and truly a sight to behold. A watchmaking signature of Van Cleef & Arpels since 2010, the Lady Arpels Pont des Amoureux features a tender reunion, depicting two lovers as they move towards each other throughout the day to share a kiss at noon and midnight, set against a backdrop that recalls Parisian streets. The timepiece is revealed in different tableaux, depicting the kiss in daytime, nighttime and seasonal variations, offering an always changing and ever-alluring piece.
Ultimately, what sets Van Cleef & Arpels apart is the maison’s unique and captivating blend of inventiveness and fantasy. A VCA timepiece is not only a work of art in its own right, but a journey through the poetry of time; this exhibition a continuation of that vision.
With Auckland’s winter cultural calendar already in full swing, there are a number of exciting happenings inspiring us to step outside of the comfort of our homes and immerse ourselves in the intoxicating nature of live events. And sitting at the top of our list is Synthony Pride — a music event like no other and a world-first new show, reimagining the world’s biggest dance and pop anthems with the power of the Auckland Philharmonia, along with instrumentalists, guest vocalists, dancers, drag queens and kings, and some of the country’s most celebrated musicians.
If you have plans to head along (or now feel inspired to secure tickets), we’ve compiled a discerning list of where to stay, eat, drink and celebrate around the event, encouraging you not just to make a night of it, but an entire weekend.
Where To Celebrate
Pre-Show
SkyCity’s Drag Queen bingo pre-party with Kita Mean
To get you well and truly in the spirit of the evening, SkyCity is hosting a Drag Queen bingo pre-party with Kita Mean. Look to the skies as the Sky Tower dresses in a fabulous dynamic rainbow light display, and start your night right with SkyCity at the official Synthony Pre-party where revellers are invited to make the most of the glam squad station (replete with false lashes, face gems and glitter galore), before partaking in an uproarious round of drag bingo — sure to set the tone for all that follows. There’s also free transportation for attendees, with complimentary buses running to and from Spark Arena for the first 200 people at Flare Bar.
Seasonal Arancini, Whipped Ricotta & Selection of Cured Meats and Cheeses from Bar Non Solo’s Pre-Show Menu
Bar Non Solo not only promises an ever-lively ambience, but also offers a bespoke Pre-Show Menu — perfect for those on their way to an event at Spark Arena. Available between 4pm and 7pm, for a mere $30 guests can dine on a selection of plates that includes marinated olives, whipped ricotta, seasonal arancini, cured meats and cheeses, and two delicious pizzas. It’s the perfect way to ensure you are satiated for an exciting night. Bookings for this experience are essential to ensure you arrive at Spark with plenty of time to spare.
Get things moving and grooving with Cafe Hanoi’s espresso martini
Cafe Hanoi (only a quick walk from Spark Arena) is open on Saturdays from 12 ’til late, meaning that parking up for an afternoon drink and bite (or convivial long lunch) is not only possible but encouraged. The eatery’s extensive and always delicious menu is filled with fare that will suitably line your stomach for an evening of moving and grooving, while the cocktails — including a bespoke espresso martini with Vietnamese coffee and gingerbread syrup, are sure to get the party started.
This iconic restaurant is small but mighty. Offering a curated and concise menu, and an intimate, calm setting, Ortolana is one spot to which we always find ourselves returning to in the Britomart precinct. With a delicious edit of sharing plates (and some incredibly tasty pasta options, too), a thoughtfully crafted drinks menu, and service that is always swift (if needed), a pre-event stopover at this stalwart eatery is always a treat.
Enjoy a delicious selection of contemporary delights at Cassia
Cassia at SkyCity takes modern Indian to new heights, with a delicious selection of contemporary delights perfect for sharing with a group pre-event. In the most central of locations, with a dimly-lit, vibrant dining space, as well as a number of set menus to choose from for those looking to turn lunch or a pre-event bite into a gastronomic delight.
Where To Celebrate
Post-Show
Join Kita Mean alongside Tess Tickle & Rita Menu at SkyCity’s Afterparty
Continue the fun post-event and catch the Queens of SkyCity at the precinct’s uproarious afterparty. A resident DJ will keep the party going long into the evening, while the delightfully sinful ‘Queens of SkyCity’ midnight show will feature comedy master of ceremony Kita Mean alongside Tess Tickle and Rita Menu. They’ll be sure to bring their fabulous costumes, dance numbers and cheeky humour, inspiring revellers to finish the night off in style.
While Culprit’s innovative culinary concept is perfect for a pre- or post-show bite, with an ever-changing menu comprising trolleys of snacks to share, the eatery’s ‘mischievous younger brother’, Little Culprit, is a fantastic spot to keep the party going. Quaint and chic, this cocktail bar and wine lounge boats an elevated yet relaxed atmosphere, and is perfect for those seeking a nightcap.
Set in an atmospheric, underground spot on Queen Street, The Nightcar evokes after-dark sophistication with a film noir edge — with an impeccably crafted drinks list and late-night contemporary Chinese bites plus a number of tasty desserts. Open until 3am, this subterranean sanctuary is an ideal spot to make a night of it.
Recently opening on a rooftop within the Commercial Bay precinct, Queens Rooftop boats 270-degree views of the Waitematā Harbour, delicious food, and one of the best drinks lists in town. Open from 11am ’til late seven days a week, here, you can grab lunch, a pre-event bite and glass of wine, or a post-event cocktail (or two) — taking in the incredible views from the comfort of the well-heated and always-lively rooftop terrace.
The perfect nightcap spot, on Palmer’s sweeping terrace
Taking cocktail hour to new heights, Palmer Bar is the central city bar and eatery with a positively elevated outlook. Whether you’re seeking a low-key daytime drink or a convivial post-event nightcap, Palmer’s inviting ambience and exceptional drinks menu always inspire another round. With a chic interior and sweeping terrace that provides the perfect alfresco spot to revel in a beautiful afternoon, and a roaring fire which takes centre-stage as the sun goes down, no matter the hour you visit, this is one spot guaranteed to deliver.
Gastronomic bliss and refined relaxation abound at SkyCity, where a more-than-perfect place to rest your head awaits. From a luxurious, five-star stay at The Grand by SkyCity, to a perfect platform for staying and playing in the city — SkyCity Hotel, to the city’s newest benchmark in luxury accommodation — Horizon Hotel, opening only two days before the event itself, here, there’s something for every kind of getaway.
Stay in one of The Hotel Britomart’s Landing Suites
Nestled in the heart of Britomart, this chic hotel offers exquisitely designed rooms (plus five suites) designed to provide a calm respite from the bustle of the city. With warm, modern interiors and located within close walking distance to Spark Arena, not to mention the option of ordering room service from none other than Kingi, this centrally-located spot is a delightful place to rest your head.
Globally renowned hotel group InterContinental recently opened an Auckland outpost, occupying a coveted site on Auckland’s waterfront overlooking the harbour and offering guests direct and easy access to some of the best restaurants, bars and retail the city has to offer. But, given the hotel’s utterly luxurious rooms and in-house hospitality with Advieh, there will be little need to leave at all.
The Shark HydroVac Pro XL Cordless 3-in-1 Cleaner (say that fast three times) is the new, multi-purpose home appliance changing the face of home maintenance — and we’ve got one up for grabs. An essential chore, yet one we all sigh at the thought of, cleaning the floors has long been a laborious task, and one that requires multiple appliances and some serious elbow grease. Add the fact that, in Auckland at least, a large portion of the homes within which we dwell are villas — most of us have a whole lot of flooring to maintain.
That’s where the Shark Hydrovac comes in — offering multi-surface cleaning, tackling both hardwood floors and rugs with a powerful suction vacuum and hydro-mopping at the same time. The clever, cordless tool boasts powerful suction capabilities, swiftly clearing debris and dust, while the antimicrobial brush roll deep cleans, removing hard-to-lift marks — across both solid surfaces (wooden flooring and tiles) and soft flooring (to spot-clean carpet or area rugs).
Adding further still to its impressive capabilities, the HydroVac’s odour neutraliser technology keeps your home smelling fresh, while the handy self-cleaning mode ensures the unit stays fresh for every use. Win, win.
Given the increasingly busy lives we all lead, between demanding work schedules, kids, and social engagements, a clean and tidy home is often the first thing that is sacrificed — often to the detriment of our sanity. But that needn’t be the case (tidy home = calm mind, after all). Shark’s innovative new all-in-one HydroVac cuts cleaning time in half — its impressive efficacy also reduces the frequency of cleans, meaning more time to spend on the things that count.
Drawn to the building’s history and charm, and seeing “so much unrealised potential,” Donna Hutchins and business partner Shaun Margan jumped at the opportunity to take over a striking heritage building in the heart of Henderson, transforming it into The Alderman — a charming neighbourhood café surrounded by native bush.
Hutchins and Margan both come to the new venture with 25 years’ experience in the industry, and, in seeking something new, were instantly inspired by the building The Alderman now occupies and it’s striking surrounds. “Our building was built in 1873, and was the first hotel in Henderson, so it has always been entrenched in the hospitality culture of the west,” says Hutchins, “As the current custodians of The Falls Hotel building, we want to keep the hospitality legacy going.” And so far, so good, with The Alderman already becoming a fixture in the local dining scene, with locals embracing the newcomer wholeheartedly. “The weekend vibe has been all about local families and dogs so far!” says Hutchins, “We have a lovely north-facing outlook to Falls Park, where the kids can explore nature too, and locals have been using the beautiful walkway and bike path to get to the eatery.”
Drawing inspiration from laid-back, relaxed daytime eateries in Melbourne and Sydney, the pair have kept the space simple — letting the building’s historic interiors and surrounds become the focal point, and leaning into the light and airy space. “The space gets all-day sun (when it’s shining), and the building is nestled next to a patch of native bush, giving it a lush, green outlook,” Hutchins tells me, saying that the pair called on friends for support in realising their vision, “Our friend Ryan Strawbridge from Our Projects was amazing, bringing our loose plans, drawn on a paper napkin, to life.”
The menu offers an approachable take on modern classics, from granola with warm vanilla custard and poached fruit to chilli scramble on sourdough on the breakfast menu, to chicken schnitzel with savoy and fennel slaw and 12-hour lamb shoulder flatbread on offer come lunch. The Alderman Big Breakfast and a tasty avocado cornbread feature on a concise menu that’s available to order all day. Hutchins’ favourites? The wagyu steak on sourdough with peppercorn sauce, and the Dusty Apron English muffin with pork and fennel sausage with Al Brown’s kasundi relish.
As for the drinks, you’ll find expertly prepared eighthirty coffee, alongside craft beers and a concise wine list — something the pair have plans to expand on as the weather warms and they begin to make the most of their covered outside area.
Ultimately, in The Alderman, Hutchins and Margan have created a laid-back spot where locals and those coming from further afield can enjoy a long lunch with friends or family, leaving feeling satisfied and relaxed.
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