A quintessential wardrobe all-rounder that pairs equally well with jeans or an evening gown, the full-length woollen coat is an enduring staple. As timeless as it is universally flattering, the overcoat is perfect for adding a bit of tailored polish to any look, and reigns supreme as the hero of winter dressing.
Neutral colours will prove timeless, while sculptural silhouettes can offer a point of difference — whether you’re drawn to an oversized shape or a belt to cinch. Here, we round up the cosy, chic and ever-versatile woollen coats we’re currently coveting.
One of the city’s most consistently popular and universally beloved dining spots, the signature blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavours and dishes at Azabu Mission Bay hit the mark every time, and trust us when we say that we have visited enough to say this with conviction.
Now, as part of Savor’s Spring Food Festival, Azabu Mission Bay is celebrating Sundays in a very enticing way — with a new Steak & Sushi Sundays offering set to kick off this coming weekend (August 18th), running every week until the end of September.
Azabu Mission Bay
Here, diners will find an exclusive set menu featuring locally sourced meats cooked on the Robata grill (from 250-gram scotch fillet to chicken yakitori) alongside signature sushi rainbow rolls, the freshest sashimi, kingfish ceviche and snapper katsu tempura.
Served platter-style, for $170 the Steak & Sushi platter feeds 3-4 diners, and promises a feast for the senses with something for every taste and proclivity. And if you’re feeling indulgent, there’s the option to upgrade — with Japanese Wagyu, double the sashimi and a fresh New Zealand scampi added to the mix.
Azabu Mission Bay’s exclusive Steak & Sushi set menu, featuring meats from the Robata grill
On the drinks front, there’s a curated selection of Roku cocktails up for grabs for a modest $16, or ice-cold Asahi for just $10 — the perfect accompaniment to the fare on offer.
Book a table here to make the most of this exceptionally delicious deal.
Silestone XM by Cosentino’s new range, created in collaboration with iconic design visionaries Formafantasma, is setting a new benchmark for sustainable stone surfaces.
When it comes to selecting surfaces for your home, there is one company setting themselves apart with the groundbreaking strides it’s making on the sustainability front, with products as visually striking as they are environmentally friendly. Cosentino has long proved itself as pioneers in design-led surfaces for the world of architecture and design — their new product, Silestone XM by Cosentino, created in collaboration with Formafantasma, only furthering their standing in this space.
A custom-made kitchen island and wall cladding in Earthic, Raw D by Cosentino
The collection’s six colours run the gamut from subtle neutrals to strong design statements. Ffrom 01 adds depth to any space, drawing the eye with its speckled pattern, perfectly suited to cladding or flooring. Raw A offers a soft, more neutral backdrop — it’s dark vein over a white background evoking a sense of natural elegance, reminiscent of stones found in nature. Elsewhere in the collection, the dark, natural rock backdrop of Raw D brings a solid elegance to bathroom or kitchen surfaces, and Ffrom 03 offers a mesmerising and anthracite background resembling the night sky.
Calling on the expertise of Formafantasma, an iconic, research-based design studio, the technologically-advanced collection explores innovative and sustainable material sources, proposing a novel approach to surface design.
As is the case across much of Cosentino’s offering, these products are stain, scratch, and heat resistant — thanks, in large part, to the Hybriq+ technology, setting them apart from similar surfaces that rely solely on the use of traditional mined materials that don’t stack up when it comes to durability. As such, the brand offers a 25-year warranty on all Silestone products. The Earthic range incorporates up to 30 percent recycled components into its eco-conscious surfaces, with a maximum of 10 percent silica content derived from researched production processes and composition. Marrying selected minerals, recycled glass, PET, bio-resin, and Dekton fragments to reduce raw material extraction, the Earthic range has been developed in a way that limits soil erosion and CO2 emissions, its production processes powered by 100 percent certified renewable electricity, using 99 percent recycled water.
A waterfall kitchen island and splashback in Earthic, Raw A by Cosentino
Despite an impressive standing in sustainability, the products have maintained the same level of performance, without compromising on the high-quality design and colour depth the brand is known for. As a result, Earthic offers endless applications — from flooring and cladding to bespoke furniture and surfaces within the kitchen, bathroom, and beyond, easily slotting into any design-led space to offer a timeless yet contemporary aesthetic.
Deftly harnessing the power of technology to create solutions that not only improve the visual impact of our homes, but contribute to the forward momentum of sustainable design, Cosentino continues to solidify themselves as the benchmark for surface performance — Silestone XM by Cosentino setting this in stone.
Shark Beauty burst onto the hairstyling scene late last year and gave the category a much-needed shake-up — introducing a series of seriously impressive, powerful tools that not only get the job done to impressive effect but have been crafted with all hair types in mind, bringing diversity to the fore in a category that is seriously lacking it.
Shark’s FlexStyle tool quickly gained a cult following across both Australia and New Zealand, lauded for its ability to transition easily between a powerful, fast hairdryer and an ultra-versatile multi-styler (sans heat damage).
One twist is all it takes to flex from one function to the other with Shark’s clever styling and drying tool, unlocking the ability to curl, volumise, smooth, and dry in one compact hair styler — making styling quicker and easier than ever (and swerving a bathroom left in a state of cord-jumbled disarray).
Shark prides itself on its unique capacity to cater to all hair kinds and any skill set. From straight to wavy, curly to coiled, long to cropped, Shark’s multi-stylers do it all, and take care of hair while delivering results.
The multitude of versatile styling attachments easily slot onto the styling wand and hair dryer, unlocking the power to explore endless hairstyles. So, whether you seek super smooth and sleek tresses, bouncy, voluminous waves, tight, neat curls, or wild and wonderful coiffures — this clever tool does it all.
Since bursting onto the scene over a decade ago, Wallace Mua has proved himself a trailblazing force in the world of gastronomy. From the bustling kitchen of Soul Bar & Bistro (where he was given what he describes as his “big break” by the esteemed Gareth Stewart) to a six-year stint working in kitchens in France, to returning to helm some of the city’s top eateries (Kingi and Euro, to name a few), and a stint as the official cook for the touring All Blacks during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, it’s fair to say that Mua has experienced the kind of diverse career many can only dream of.
Chef Wallace Mua
Right: Paua vol-au-vent
With a cooking style he describes as ‘elaborately simple’, Mua loves experimenting with Pasifika flavours inspired by his Samoan heritage — weaving in techniques and ingredients that draw upon the vibrancy of the islands. His new position, heading up the kitchen at Trivet, an elevated new all-day bistro in the heart of the city, is the culmination of his culinary journey thus far, with each of the chef’s dishes a celebration of both flavour and heritage. “Trivet is more than just a restaurant; it’s a reflection of my personal journey and the influences that have shaped my culinary philosophy,” Mua explains, “Each dish tells a story, blending flavours and techniques from around the world to create something truly unique.”
For Mua, Trivet embodies his cooking ethos, which isn’t tethered to a particular style of food or concept, but instead honours his heritage and the vibrancy of New Zealand’s inclusive dining scene, which the chef notes finds a place for everyone. “There are so many different cultures and styles here, with so much opportunity for creativity and interpretation. Everyone is a foodie in their own right.”
Chef Wallace Mua preparing his octopus carpaccio
Left (front to back): Trevally oka and octopus carpaccio. Right: Trivet’s New Fashioned Cocktail
On the food front, diners can expect a feast for the senses, with signature dishes that showcase Chef Wallace’s world-class culinary repertoire. From the vibrant trevally oka, to the indulgent slow-cooked beef cheek cromesquis, reminiscent of his time in France, every dish is a celebration of flavour and heritage.
Lamb loin
Left: Whole gurnard
Trivet’s interiors have been meticulously designed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, blending organic textures with contemporary elements. Drawing inspiration from Aotearoa’s natural environment and iconic landscapes, Trivet features an earthy palette of greens, neutrals and warm wood tones, connecting diners with the land. Floor to ceiling windows reflect the natural light, seamlessly bringing the outdoors inside and encouraging guests to linger at the all-day bistro as the sun sets.
Right: Coconut and white chocolate mousse
Inspired by a multi-cultural Aotearoa, Trivet is set to celebrate the evolving richness of the people, culture, and heritage unique to our corner of the world. And who better to be at the helm than a chef who has long been a champion of all that New Zealand has to offer.
Right: Trivet’s Pied Piper Cocktail
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week, Trivet is located at 22 Albert Street neighbouring the prestigious JW Marriott Auckland hotel.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 6.30am until 10.30am and 12pm until late
Overlooking a picturesque bay in Northern Sydney, this family home honours the natural beauty and tranquillity of its location. Gently curved to mimic the flow of the bay with a sand-inspired texture and tone, the serene home plays out across three storeys. Each level is designated a unique purpose and energy—beginning in the basement rumpus room.
Miniforms Soda coffee table from Matisse and Flos Taccia table lamp from ECC
Surface sconce from Studio Henry Wilson
The space is wholly devoted to fun, where family and guests can gather and entertain. Stepping outside, an external passage leads to the pool, which sits like a sculpture in the landscape. Its curved form is inspired by the outline of the bay, expanding from sandy cove to open ocean. The pool’s modest scale was a deliberate move by the architect, who chose to restrain outdoor living and prioritise proximity to the beach so the house could sit forward on the site, creating the illusion that it hovers over the water.
Moooi Meshmatics chandelier from ECC and Zanotta Tod small table from Studio Italia
Flos Casting lamp from ECC
The kitchen, living and dining spread across the level above, forming the home’s core. A 12-metre stretch of glazing frames the exquisite ocean view and filters light into the elegantly pared-back space. Cautious not to compete with the outlook, the architect utilised an impressive sense of restraint throughout the interior, embracing organic tones and rich texture. Sandstone walls travel through the home and out into the landscape, anchoring the house in the site, while timber slatting creates playful shadows within. A generous butler’s pantry hides the cooking equipment and accessories behind a towering mirrored panel, which allows the kitchen a minimalist aesthetic. The architect leveraged off this clean palette to introduce a chunky marble island centrepiece.
BassamFellows Circular counter stools from Simon James and Artemide Nessino table lamp from ECC
Christopher Boots Petra Ring light from ECC
A light-filled staircase tucked behind the kitchen leads to the private quarters upstairs. Again, Blanchford has prioritised a connection to the surroundings by opening the bedrooms to plant-bordered balconies. In a moment of pure joy, a round window set into the primary suite’s balcony floor allows the owners to interact with the pool and beach below.
Elsewhere, landscaped courtyards cement the tranquil tone, demonstrating the significance of the spaces between the built form.
A cohesive palette, generous sense of scale and composure culminate in a remarkably beautiful home. Yet the Shelly Beach house still allows the landscape to take the lead. Recessive to the view, built to absorb and honour its waterfront setting, the home serves the environment, its owners and design.
In the second installation of its speaker series, Soul is handing the mic to Polly Markus (AKA Miss Polly’s Kitchen), in celebration of her highly anticipated second cookbook, Seriously Delicious, which launches on August 20th. Known for her laid-back and joy-filled approach to cooking, Polly has amassed over 70,000 followers on her Instagram account, and now, with her second cookbook launching this month, the Instagram chef is teaming up with Soul for an evening of seriously delicious food and what is sure to be an entertaining and enlightening Q&A with the eatery’s GM, Liv Carter.
Polly doesn’t follow foodie trends, nor does she overcomplicate dishes — she simply creates great food and recipes that people will love to cook and share with friends. An ethos that Soul too embodies wholeheartedly. And, come Wednesday, August 28th, between 12 — 2pm at Soul, guests will find the best of both worlds, as the clever team in the Soul kitchen recreate a selection of Polly’s new recipes, served alongside Malfy cocktails, while Liv and Polly talk all things cooking, entertaining, and how to make cooking (and eating) a little less seriously and a little more fun.
With Polly’s spirited personality and delicious fare, and Liv’s unfaltering ability to kick-start a good time, this is guaranteed to be an exceptional event not to be missed. Tickets are $95 per person, which includes a tasty, three-course lunch and a Malfy cocktail on arrival. And with the opportunity to be one of the first in the country to get your hands on a (signed) copy of Seriously Delicious, we know tickets won’t last long. Secure your spot by calling Soul on 09 356 7249 or email [email protected], stat.
There’s nothing quite like a thrilling live event to draw us out of the comfort of our homes in winter, and luckily, Auckland’s cultural calendar has been brimming with events as of late — with another set to captivate audiences this August. Lion King Live is taking place on August 30th and 31st at Aotea Centre, promising a music event like no other, as the magic of Disney’s animated classic The Lion King is coupled with the power of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra as it performs the beloved Oscar-winning score by Hans Zimmer and songs by the likes of Elton John and Tim Rice — live to film.
Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra
If you have plans to head along, we’ve compiled a discerning list of where to eat, drink and celebrate around the event, encouraging you not just to make a night of it, but an entire weekend.
While Auckland has no shortage of exceptional eateries, few venues in the city boast cuisine as delicious and satisfying as contemporary Chinese eatery Huami. We find ourselves turning to this SkyCity favourite time and time again; so consistent is its delivery of excellent dining experiences — from exceptional Yum Cha to a very well-stocked bar, lively vibe, and the most central of locations, plus free parking for diners and a menu that caters to kids, there are very few boxes Huami doesn’t tick.
SkyCity’s Japanese stalwart has long been a family favourite. The kids can enjoy a bento box with all the beloved Japanese delicacies, all while mum and dad enjoy some delicious fare from the regular menu and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.
This CBD stalwart is Auckland’s answer to the classic New York deli. Here, food is simple, flavourful and utterly indulgent, and guarantees to offer a satiating meal at every sitting. Any Aucklander worth their salt will have a go-to order here (more than likely the chicken salad sandwich with chicken skin crackling, iceberg and dipping gravy), but it just so happens The Fed also caters incredibly well to mini discerning diners too. The ‘Lil Feds’ menu features a number of tasty delights, from a basket of fish and chips to a mini version of the famed chicken sammy and more. There are also $12 milkshakes available for the school holidays, with chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and banana to choose from.
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.
Beloved Auckland institution The Grill is back after a short hiatus, and better than ever — now conveniently located in the new five-star hotel within the SkyCity precinct, Horizon. Here, the emphasis is on steak and seafood, with exceptional, local produce taking centre stage. Book a table and indulge in a very satisfying pre-show bite, and maybe head back after the show for a drink if you’re staying in the area, or if you, like us, simply can’t stay away.
Drawing on refined restaurant culture from around the world, Gilt delivers on all fronts — from the menu, featuring contemporary takes on classic dishes you’d find at a European brasserie, to world-class wines, timeless cocktails and more. There’s no better spot to park up for lunch, dinner, post-show drinks, or anything in between — just make sure to order the baked oysters and a Gilt Gimlet.
Paname Social is a chic, Parisian-inspired restaurant and wine bar serving decidedly European fare all day. The menu has a strong French influence, with many dishes grounded in authentic recipes with ingredients sourced from local French suppliers. Food is served from dusk until dawn, the wine list is extensive, the cocktails are inventive and coffee is served around the clock, bringing a true taste of the European mode de vie to Auckland’s dining scene.
Where To Celebrate
Post-Show
Bar Magda’s bespoke Espresso Martini (left) and mouthwatering Tocino of barbecue pork belly
Pre- or post-show, either way, a trip to Bar Magda is always an enjoyable and satiating affair. The cocktails are certainly some of the best in the city, with both inventive takes and elevated classics on offer, and the new-wave Filipino fare always surprises and delights. There’s also a bespoke ‘Espresso Martini Nights’ menu come Friday and Saturday, which features a number of delightful renditions of everyone’s favourite party starter, for a modest price, that are sure to set the tone for a great night.
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 spot within St. Kevin’s Arcade on K’Rd (Karangahape Road for out-of-towners), Tappo is a laid-back wine bar with an exceptional menu of snacks and an even better drinks list. Here, the focus is on showcasing wines from small, biodynamic, and organic producers from around New Zealand and Italy, and the always knowledgeable staff are on hand to recommend something perfect for every taste, proclivity, and mood.
Wagyu beef originates from Japan and is renowned for its extraordinary marbling — a unique feature that results in unmatched tenderness and a rich, buttery, and decadent flavour. True steak aficionados will likely be able to spot the difference in quality (not all wagyu is created equal), but for most of us, it’s the experts to which we turn for the inside word on the best of this flavourful delicacy.
Ebisu is one such authority, with head chef Darren Johnson having a long history of crafting exceptional dishes that bring out the best of wagyu’s unique flavours and differing cuts. And this month as part of Savor’s Spring Food Festival, the much-loved inner-city haunt is hosting an exceptional culinary event centred on the art of wagyu, and the intersection of Japanese and kiwi cuisines.
surf & turf blow-torched wagyu & scampi roll
Here, diners are invited to enjoy hand-rolled wagyu tatar, surf & turf blow-torched wagyu & scampi roll, a wagyu shabu shabu, smoked wagyu brisket, and a unique New Zealand vs Japan showcase.
Alongside this carnivorous smorgasbord, guests will find a Glenmorangie Tale of Tokyo Mizu Manhattan on arrival, and enjoy wine matches from Church Road and St Hugo throughout the five-course meal.
Tickets are $185 per person and include five delicious courses, a cocktail on arrival, and four wines. You can secure your spot here.
It’s no secret that the head-turning, heart-breaking colour of love has staged a statement-making comeback this year and solidified itself as the bold and brilliant colour we all need more of in our wardrobes. Now, a deeper, more subtle (but equally as impactful) variation of the hue is making its way into our jewellery collections — pomegranate.
Here, we round up the pomegranate jewels that our editors are coveting — from ruby rings to burgundy leather-strapped watches, and a veritable spectrum of delights in between.
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