Somm's Artichoke, mushroom, olive and mozzarella Pizza

With unmatched waterfront views, two-for-one pizzas, and delicious deals on drinks, Somm Cellar Door is the ultimate Sunday spot

Set in the Princes Wharf site that once housed Euro, Somm Cellar Door not only affords its guests incredible, waterfront views but is also home to what is perhaps the city’s most impressive collection of wine, which, when coupled with consistently tasty food and a laid-back vibe, makes it the perfect place to spend a relaxed Sunday afternoon.

Raclette, ‘nduja, honey and rosemary Pizza

Somm’s Sunday pizza offering is a delicious way to round out the week with friends or family. Every Sunday, the cellar door is serving its moreish pizzas in a two-for-one deal, making a relaxed afternoon here all the more appealing. And if you haven’t had the privilege of trying them yet, Somm’s mouthwatering pizzas are made with 72-hour poolish dough (a technique that delivers a lighter and more airy texture and a soft but structured crust) and boast toppings that include a simple pomodoro with garlic, fior di latte and basil, an indulgent raclette option, finished with ‘nduja, honey and rosemary, one with flavoursome artichoke, mushroom, olives and mozzarella, and a prosciutto and rocket option with pomodoro and fior di latte

Artichoke, mushroom, olive and mozzarella Pizza

Making this prospect even more tempting is Somm’s daily ‘Somm Sundowns’ happy hour, where guests can enjoy $7 drinks from 4pm until 6pm. With a line-up of libations that includes Little Creatures Catalina Lager, Grove Mill Pinot Noir, Russian Jack Pinot Gris, Dashwood Rosé and the signature Somm Spritz (among others) this is one sundowner you don’t want to miss.

Pomodoro, garlic, fior di latte and basil Pizza

So, whether you’re seeking laid-back drinks with a view, a delicious bite between friends, a unique tasting experience, or somewhere to simply sit back and take in the true beauty of Auckland’s waterfront, Somm Cellar Door is exactly where you should be heading this weekend.

sommcellardoor.co.nz/whats-on

Somm Cellar Door

Shed 22
Princes Wharf
Auckland CBD

Gastronomy

These are the Auckland eateries staying open over the summer holidays, plus we’ve rounded up all of the holiday hospo hours you need to know
Escaping the city for the holidays? We round up the best eateries up and down the country
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best fish and chips in Auckland — and the scenic spots to enjoy them

Ashoka diamonds’ rare and coveted stones are a cut above the rest — these are our editors’ picks

Celebrating 25 years, Ashoka diamonds stand as a pinnacle of rarity and craftsmanship in the world of fine jewellery. Renowned for their distinctive cut, which less than one percent of diamond roughs qualify for, these rare and covetable stones are celebrated for their unique shape and meticulous faceting. Prized for their brilliance, each exquisite gem is not only a symbol of opulence, but a testament to artistry and precision.

Here, we round up our editors’ picks, from striking trilogy rings to statement-making necklaces.

Ashoka Diamonds
Our Editors’ Picks
ASHOKA Sideways Microset Necklace from Partridge Jewellers
ASHOKA Spiral Ring from Partridge Jewellers
ASHOKA Microset Trilogy Ring from Partridge Jewellers
ASHOKA Pave Sideways Line Bracelet from Partridge Jewellers
ASHOKA Solitaire Ring from Partridge Jewellers
ASHOKA Creole Earrings from Partridge Jewellers

partridgejewellers.com

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Update your timepiece for the summer months ahead with our edit of the most exquisite water-resistant watches
From timeless one-pieces to chic bikinis and shorts for the boys, our swimwear edit has something for everyone
Left to right: THE BRIDGMAN, Parro & Ooh-Fa

Dominion Road Dining Guide: From dumplings to desserts, we round up Dominion Road’s best dining destinations

Stretching on for 7.3km from Mount Eden to Mount Roskill, Dominion Road boasts an array of cafes and restaurants. And with so many options available, simply choosing one place to go is an almost impossible task. As such, we have rounded up a list of some of our favourites, whether you’re in search of a morning coffee, a lunchtime drop-in, or a delicious dinner and drinks.

Keep in mind, however, that while we’re sure you’ll find something you’ll like at one of the places we recommend, spontaneity and taking chances are two key factors to getting the most out of Dominion Road. So just as we underwent a process of trial and error, if you come across an off-the-beaten-track spot that you want to try, we encourage you to do so. The real beauty of this road is that it contains some of the most delightful hidden gems in the city.

Dominion Road Dining Guide
Morning Fix
La Voie Francaise

La Voie Francaise

Although Dominion Road is renowned for its varied options when it comes to Asian cuisine, it’s also home to one of the best French bakeries in Auckland. La Voie Francaise has become a destination spot with punters lining up out the door on weekend mornings just to get their pastry fix. This bakery is also one of the rare ones in town that makes a kouign-amann, which is a croissant that has been coated in sugar and caramelised to provide the ultimate crispy, buttery experience.
875 Dominion Road

Forage Cafe

Dominion Road locals swear by Forage Cafe because apparently, the baristas at this place brew the best coffee in the neighbourhood. This spot also has a variety of sandwiches, sweets and savoury dishes on offer that change regularly, and seasonal salads that can be served with a choice of spiced lamb, shredded chicken or halloumi.
90 Dominion Road

Bunhut

Try something different and have a Chinese style breakfast at Bunhut. Rather than falling back on the classic eggs on toast, step out of your comfort zone and opt for a jian bing guo zi. It’s a Chinese savoury crepe made from a light batter and fried egg, slathered with hoisin and chilli sauce and then filled with shredded vegetables and a fried bread stick. If you’re wanting something sweet, however, a simple red bean steamed bun accompanied by a warm glass of soy milk will do the trick.
563 Dominion Road

Dominion Road Dining Guide
Lunch
Paasha Turkish Kitchen

Paasha Turkish Kitchen

Should a craving for excellent Turkish food hit you, we recommend you hot-foot it to Paasha Turkish Kitchen, stat. Prioritising high quality ingredients and truly mouth watering grill techniques with their shish kebabs, hot flat bread wraps, pita pockets and more, this spot is the place to go for some of the best Turkish takeaway in town.
261 Dominion Road

Chongqing Noodles

Noodles are, after all, what most people come to Dominion Road for and Chongqing is one of the best places to get them. The broth of these noodles is less oily than other places we have tried but still contains the same amounts of spice and flavour. The rice noodles with braised beef is a dish you can never go wrong with. The beef is so tender that it melts in your mouth while the chewy texture of the noodles contrasts against the soft, succulent meat.
215 Dominion Road

Cazador Deli

Opening during lockdown adjacent to their stalwart eatery on Dominion Road, Cazador Deli — much like the eatery itself, stands out for its incredible game offering. Unsurprising, then, that the deli also knows a thing or two about the makings of an epic sandwich. There’s plenty to choose from, and the options are ever-changing, and the best bit is you can grab some tasty supplies for dinner while picking up lunch.
854 Dominion Road

Jolin Shanghai

There are dumplings and then there are soup dumplings, otherwise referred to as xiaolongbao. Restaurants that serve this delicacy are hard to find in this city due to the fact that making them requires a high level of skill. Filled with rich meat soup, usually made from pork, the little xiaolongbao pockets from Jolin Shanghai are freshly made to order and boast thicker skins than traditional soup dumplings which imbues them with a chewier texture.
248 Dominion Road

Left: Cazador Deli. Right: Tasca

Tasca

Upon first glance, you might think that Tasca is just a little cafe. What you don’t see, however, is that this Spanish eatery has an olive garden and spacious courtyard out the back, making it the perfect spot for a long lunch. In terms of food, while there are many flavourful and delicious options, be sure to order the calamares — you’ll thank us later.
338 Dominion Road

Sha Xian Snack

Another delicacy that has people driving to Dominion Road is spicy dumplings. Sha Xian Snack’s dumplings are unique because diners are given the option to change their dumpling filling instead of having to settle for predominantly pork. Sha Xian Snack also serves an oyster pie which is a deep-fried morsel packed with pickled vegetables and a juicy oyster — truly a one-of-a-kind dish.
285 Dominion Road

Dominion Road Dining Guide
Drinks
Left: The Bridgman. Right: Ralph’s.

The Bridgman

Those seeking a buzzing, local spot in Mt Eden needn’t look further than welcoming gastropub The Bridgman, having taken over an iconic site in April last year. Opened by Sean Lee (with business partner Andy Barnett) The Bridgman is just what Dominion Road needed for a long time, and offers an elevated bar and bistro experience that has made it a popular watering hole for locals. With a delicious menu of satiating dishes (think a fresher take on traditional pub fare) and a comprehensive cocktail and drinks offering, this gastropub is the perfect drop-in for drinks with friends or an after-work bite.
234 Dominion Road

Ralph’s

Take a break at casual eatery and bar, Ralph’s. With a variety of Parrotdog beers on tap, a wide selection of Garage Project brews and an impressive snack and burger menu, Ralph’s is the go-to spot for a quick refuel. The jalapeño poppers and curly fries are both absolute must-tries, but if you’re wanting more of a meal, make a beeline for the Easy Cheesy Wagyu beef burger.
225B Dominion Road

Dominion Road Dining Guide
Dinner
Left: Parro. Right: Ooh-Fa

Parro

Despite being one of the newest kids on the block, esteemed chef Gleber Chaparro’s Parro has already carved out a solid reputation for serving up some of the city’s best eats. Mediterranean-inspired, Parro’s succinct, inventive menu comprises show-stopping mains and small plates for sharing, alongside an excellent wine list of predominantly natural wines, curated to perfectly accompany the tasty bites on offer.
359 Dominion Road

Ooh-Fa

An intimate space that elevates the idea of the classic pizza parlour, Ooh-Fa is the second spot from the culinary minds behind Pici and has been perpetually popular since opening. From its comfortable, warm atmosphere (thanks to the woodfire oven and low lighting) to the considered menu of delectable pizzas and sides, this 22-seater restaurant is the perfect neighbourhood spot to drop into and catch up with friends over a slice or two and some delectable wine. We recommend booking to secure your spot.
357 Dominion Road

Forest

Plabita Florence’s intriguing, plant-based restaurant reopened it’s doors last year, much to the delight of local gastronomes. Serving an array of groundbreaking, plant-based cuisine that uses unexpected flavours and unique ingredients to harness the potential of vegetarian food in a way that no one has before, Florence’s Forest is a feast for the senses, and promises a culinary experience unlike anything else in the city.
243 Dominion Road

Eden Noodles Cafe

Eden Noodles Cafe

This iconic spot hardly needs any introduction, but if you haven’t visited Eden Noodles Cafe, we suggest you ask yourself what you’ve been doing this whole time. With locations now in the CBD and in Albany, diners city-wide can enjoy the signature sichuan-laced dishes from Eden Noodles — but we always love visiting the bustling Dominion Road outpost (provided the queue isn’t too long). Sign us up for some thick noodles with dandan sauce, some vegetarian dumplings in spicy sauce and, of course, a cucumber salad.
105 Dominion Road

Kookoo

Nestled smack bang in the middle of Dominion Road, Kookoo is a delicious dining destination serving authentic Korean cuisine with a few tasty twists. There are a number of inventive dishes worth indulging in, but the hero of the menu is without a doubt the Korean-style whole chicken, marinated for 24 hours to ensure tenderness and flavour and served with sticky rice. Best enjoyed with an ice-cold beer and great company, and perhaps a side of kimchi fried rice.
245 Dominion Road

Hot & Spicy Pot

You don’t know what spicy food is until you’ve sampled the highest spice level at Hot & Spicy Pot. At this restaurant, what goes into your dish is all up to you. Just grab a stainless steel bowl, some tongs and get creative. With a variety of vegetables, noodles, meats and seafood on offer, all you need to do is pick and mix your favourites, tell the chefs how spicy you want to go and let them do the rest. Be warned though, that even the medium level of spice at this restaurant has been known to leave people teary-eyed, so you can only imagine what the effect of the top tier might be.
605 Dominion Road

Gogo Music Cafe

Cheap and cheerful is the best way to explain Gogo Music Cafe. Although it has a few branches around Auckland, the one on Dominion Road is the original, the biggest and quite frankly, the best. Take a big group and order a bowl of the spicy chicken casserole with hand-pulled noodles, the $1 lamb skewers and some Tsing Tao beer. Devoured among Gogo Music Cafe’s loud and buzzing atmosphere, it’s a fun and memorable experience.
559 Dominion Road

Mr Hao

Mr Hao

Having joined the line-up at the start of last year, Mr Hao offers authentic bursts of Shanghai-inspired flavour with dishes such as the Numbing Chicken, a dish which sees gently fried chicken drowning in a delicious sea of chillies and numbing Sichuan peppers. Inspired by Shanghai’s late-night bar scene, Mr Hao is just the place for a relaxed get-together. Alongside the infamous Numbing Chicken, you’ll find a range of tasty skewers, noodles and irresistible grilled seafood, plus a refreshing tea cocktail on tap.
365 Dominion Road

Wang Wang Spring Pancake

This place is one of Dominion Road’s hidden gems and one that hasn’t failed us yet. Wang Wang Spring Pancake specialises in pancake wraps, similar to the ones used for Peking duck. But here, diners are given the freedom to order whatever meats and vegetables they want to fill their pancakes with. While everything is delicious, we recommend the stir fried shredded potato, the dry fried green beans with pork mince, and the fried eggplant with mushrooms and tofu.
704 Dominion Road

Spicy House

The chilli fried boneless chicken served here has made quite a name for itself and after you taste it, you’ll understand the hype. The chicken is seasoned with a copious amount of chilli and is perfectly cooked so that once you sample it for the first time, you’ll be addicted for life (seriously). The fried rice is also an excellent dish and is elevated to new heights when pork hock is added, seeing a thick, tasty sauce poured over the bed of fluffy rice.
557 Dominion Road

Cazador

Forget being one of the best restaurants on Dominion Road, Cazador is one of the best spots in Auckland full stop. This restaurant serves unique dishes that showcase ethical ingredients and sustainable cooking principles by making use of all parts of the animal being served, instead of only offering cuts like the breast or belly. The menu changes depending on the availability of ingredients but the charcuterie platter is a staple and for good reason. Combined with its seamless service and lush ambience, Cazador is a must for any Aucklander.
854 Dominion Road

Udon Works

A cosy and compact Japanese eatery, Udon Works is home to some of the best noodle soups in town. Simple yet delicious, a big bowl of their warming broth with some thick udon noodles will leave you feeling like all is right with the world. Udon Works also has a menu of cold noodle dishes and delicious donburi with rice, with a variety of vegetable, meat and seafood options available — plus some of the best tempura we’ve tried.
633 Dominion Road

Dominion Road Dining Guide
Dessert
Left: Meet Fresh. Right: The Gateau House.

Meet Fresh

Take a trip to Meet Fresh for a Taiwanese take on dessert. Taiwanese desserts tend to be lighter, less sweet and lean more towards the refreshing side rather than being too sugary. The mango shaved ice is a fruity delight but if you want something more decadent, the freshly made waffles are always a good idea.
533 Dominion Road

The Gateau House

Despite what the name of this bakery might indicate, it is certainly not your run-of-the-mill cake shop. The Gateau House specialises in South Korean pastries which include red-bean-filled buns that are topped with cookie crumble alongside a wide variety of delicate cakes. Our favourite is the kumara cake — a light and fluffy sponge layered with whipped cream and sweet potato mousse.
375 Dominion Road

Gastronomy

These are the Auckland eateries staying open over the summer holidays, plus we’ve rounded up all of the holiday hospo hours you need to know
Escaping the city for the holidays? We round up the best eateries up and down the country
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best fish and chips in Auckland — and the scenic spots to enjoy them
Big Sam Young

One of Australia’s most celebrated chefs is in town for one night only, bringing his signature ‘haute cuisine’ to Bivacco

Big Sam Young is a culinary tour de force, with a unique cooking style and a big, bold personality that has earned him a name as one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs. Known for transforming crowd-favourite dishes into over-the-top dining experiences, Young is a die-hard foodie and a genuine entertainer, and this month, Kiwis have the chance to enjoy both his hosting prowess and exceptional fare at Bivacco on September 25th.

Young has spent time in the kitchens of some of Australia’s most-known eateries — from Totti’s to Mr Wong, as well as his own neighbourhood bistro, S’more, which he opened in 2022 with his partner, cult chef Grace Chen (aka Super Banana). But it’s perhaps his pop-ups and bespoke, private experiences that the chef is best known for — something he is bringing across the ditch to discerning diners in Auckland this month, for a one-night-only event.

This exclusive evening features a four-course set menu with optional matched wines, showcasing Young’s decadent dishes inspired by his global travels. The menu includes a selection of snacks such as wagyu tartare and scallop crudo, a signature lobster pasta featuring local New Zealand crayfish, roasted Atlantic toothfish, and the timeless S’more coffee and tea creme caramel for dessert. Sam will also be presenting some exceptional, limited-edition dishes available for pre-purchase one week before the event, beginning this Wednesday (18th September).

Left: Bivacco. Right: Big Sam Young’s signature lobster pasta

Priced at $165 per person, the evening includes a flute of Moet Rose on arrival, four exquisite courses, and an unforgettable dining experience at one of the city’s most-loved eateries.

Sure to sell out, we suggest getting your tickets ASAP to this one. Book here, or email [email protected] for a reservation.

savor.co.nz/festival

Gastronomy

These are the Auckland eateries staying open over the summer holidays, plus we’ve rounded up all of the holiday hospo hours you need to know
Escaping the city for the holidays? We round up the best eateries up and down the country
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best fish and chips in Auckland — and the scenic spots to enjoy them

Add some pep back into your skin’s step with these must-have products for a springtime glow

There’s no better time than spring to rethink your skincare and beauty regime with the changing seasons in mind. From a brightening mask that enhances skin in minutes, to a potent peel, a serum-based sunscreen, and an LED mask that takes its scientific cues from NASA, these are the season’s must-have skin essentials.

01. Brightening Mask

This glow-inducing in-shower mask will take dull, dry, and lacklustre skin from zero to hero in three short minutes — harnessing the potent power of fine, crushed ginseng.

02. Potent Peel

Touted as a powerful but gentle brightening exfoliator Verso’s efficient enzyme peel gently exfoliates and rejuvenates, for smoother, brighter, more refined skin.

03. SPF Serum

This ultra-lightweight broad spectrum SPF50+ serum sunscreen, rich in skin loving actives, both shields the skin and leaves it with a luminous glow.

04. LED Mask

Utilising advanced tech borrowed from NASA, this high performing mask is a non-invasive yet impactful way to promote overall skin rejuvenation at home.

Summertime Glow
Our Must-Haves
01. Brightening Mask
Sulwhasoo White Ginseng Radiance Refining Mask from Sephora
02. Potent Peel
VERSO Enzyme Peel from Mecca
03. SPF Serum
Alpha-h Dawn to Dusk SPF50+ Serum from adorebeauty
04. LED Mask
MZ SKIN LED 2.0 LightMAX LED Mask from net-a-porter

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Negroni Month has kicked off at Ayrburn, and this is a celebration you don’t want to miss

Everyone’s favourite orange apéritif, Campari, has set up shop at Ayrburn this September, teaming up with the dining destination to craft the country’s most delicious and daring new Negroni menu.

Available from now until September 29th, Ayrburn are elevating their cocktail offering with daily Negroni specials, featuring inventive creations like Hot Toddy Negronis and Chocolate Cherry Negronis, alongside timeless classics. There’s even delectable Negroni jellies to tantalise the taste buds.

And, come Sunday, revellers are invited to shake off the end-of-winter blues with Campari Sunday Sessions at The Burr Bar. Weekly, from 3pm to 6pm, Sundays are worth celebrating, with Negronis galore and Ayrburn’s resident DJs spinning party-starting tunes.

Ayrburn’s Campari Sunday Sessions are here for a good time, not a long time, so get in quick.

www.ayrburn.com

Gastronomy

These are the Auckland eateries staying open over the summer holidays, plus we’ve rounded up all of the holiday hospo hours you need to know
Escaping the city for the holidays? We round up the best eateries up and down the country
Denizen’s definitive guide to the best fish and chips in Auckland — and the scenic spots to enjoy them

A masterclass in balance, this home in Sydney’s Northern Beaches finds harmony between design and duty

Architecture & Interior Design — Rama Architects
Interior Consultant — Lara Hutton
Photography — Georges Antoni

When Rama Architects’ clients came across this seaside Sydney home, they were instantly drawn to its robust form and location. Perched above a thousand-year-old forest with views out to Pittwater, the mid-century building was rife with potential but lacked practicality. Eager to retain significant elements of the existing structure, they challenged the architects to reconfigure and reimagine the rest to fit their family of five. What conspired was a masterclass in balance.

The design counters the exterior’s sharp angles and hardy materials with a richly textured interior. A restrained oatmeal palette plays out in microcement, aerated concrete, render, and striking travertine, allowing furniture and an extensive art collection to be the colour vehicle. One of the clients is a fashion photographer, so natural light was another key driver in the design which the architects addressed by incorporating generous glazing and clerestory windows that flood the home with sunshine. Ever-changing shadows and reflections are playfully projected across the textured internal walls, while the view stretches beyond the treetops to the waterway below.

“Eager to retain significant elements of the existing structure, they challenged the architects to reconfigure and reimagine the rest to fit their family of five. What conspired was a masterclass in balance.”

The home exhibits notes of Australian Modernism with its raked ceiling, existing rafters, and intriguing proportions. This tied in neatly with Rama Architects’ modernist-based principle that ‘form follows function’; the belief that a house must perform practically before it endeavours to find an aesthetic solution. Designing with this in mind, the result is undeniably beautiful, but first and foremost, a family home.

The renovation moulds to the busy young family, countering generous shared spaces with necessary pockets of privacy. Open living, dining, courtyards, and entertaining spaces flow together, forming a calm and easy backdrop for daily life, effortlessly expanding to host frequent gatherings of the close-knit extended family. In a clear division between public and private spaces, the sleeping quarters lie upstairs, connected via a refurbished staircase turret, lined with brick and masonry walls.

The home explores scale and shape in ways that impart a sculptural quality. The gentle curve of the fortress-like turret becomes a repeated motif, echoed in the primary ensuite and a poolside daybed. This seamless integration of old and new resonates throughout the house, reprogramming the home to respect the original design while enhancing its functionality and flexibility in ways that will serve the young family for decades to come.

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Fresh from London Fashion Week — the best looks from the Spring 2025 runways so far

This season’s London Fashion Week wasn’t just about showcasing the latest trends for Spring 2025. It was a landmark year marking the event’s 40th anniversary. This milestone coincided with a period of change for the industry, with both established and emerging designers facing financial challenges.

But amidst the obvious obstacles, London’s fashion scene thrived. At Denizen we always have an affinity to homegrown talent Emilia Wickstead who continues her reign as the go-to for Royals and London socialites alike. While other favourites were the work of independent designers who’ve launched their brands in recent years such as Nensi Dojaka who stood out among the city’s ever-present multicultural influence. London icon Burberry continued its evolution under the creative direction of Daniel Lee, while JW Anderson stole the show with a collection that pushed the boundaries of fashion itself.

Here are our top picks from London Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2025.

Spring 2025 Read-To-Wear
Emilia Wickstead

New Zealand-born, British fashion sensation Emilia Wickstead’s show was a playful dance between feminine elegance and rebellion. Moving on from the industrial basements and darker tones of her last season, the Spring/Summer 2025 collection masterfully blends her signature sleek femininity with a touch of unexpected rebellion.

Drawing inspiration from photographer Gisèle Freund’s portraits of intellectual powerhouses, Wickstead creates a “girl gang” ready to conquer the world. Think precise tailoring and elegant lines, punctuated by pops of colour and playful details like fringing and floral prints. Boyish knits offer a touch of androgyny, while oversized tassels on sandals add a touch of whimsy.

The collection offers an array of looks for the modern woman who isn’t afraid to be both powerful and playful. It’s a testament to Wickstead’s talent for creating clothes that feel both timeless and excitingly fresh.

Spring 2025 Read-To-Wear
JW Anderson

Never one for the expected, Jonathan Anderson’s namesake JW Anderson SS25 collection was an exercise in pushing boundaries. Removing the basic definitions of fashion, Anderson instead chose to challenge the norms, by creating playful deconstructed looks that had you questioning ‘Is that a dress?’ which was clearly the idea.

Anderson, a creative chameleon, approaches fashion as a language. This season, there was a clear focus on optical illusions; magnified, distorted details created a sense of playful surrealism. The collection feels liberated, yet still self-reflective with looped fringing echoing past seasons, and maintaining the brand’s signature cool.

Oversized silhouettes juxtaposed with mini-skirts with a daring transparency resulted in a statement look for the fearless JW Anderson devotee. Layering remains key, with each piece in the collection designed to be a building block in what is a unique sartorial story.

Spring 2025 Read-To-Wear
Nensi Dojaka

Nensi Dojaka’s triumphant return to London was a love letter to sensuality. Stepping back into the historic St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, Dojaka reaffirmed her mastery of lingerie-inspired design, bringing a sultry edge back to the London scene.

The collection saw a subtle evolution from her signature structured style. Gone were the strictly linear seams, replaced by flowing ruffles, soft pleats, and thigh-high slits. This move towards fluidity was underscored by a palette of delicate pastels, a refreshing departure from her previous starkness.

Dojaka understands the modern woman’s desire for versatility. While past collections paired her designs with sky-high stilettos, here we saw models in demure flats, hinting at a more relaxed interpretation of her aesthetic. Duality was key, showcasing clothes that can effortlessly transition from a night out to a luxurious night in.

The highlight was a capsule collection with Calvin Klein. Here, Dojaka’s signature pieces were reimagined for both evening wear and loungewear, proving the perfect fit for the lingerie giant.

This season was an affirmation of Dojaka’s burgeoning brand. From the star-studded front row to the industry heavyweights in attendance, the buzz was undeniable, her empowering designs and remarkable potential for bigger things were very clear.

The Calvin Klein collaboration is a win-win. For Dojaka, it’s a chance to test the waters for her own lingerie line. For Calvin Klein, it’s an infusion of fresh energy and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Either way, Nensi Dojaka is poised for a bright future.

Spring 2025 Read-To-Wear
Burberry

Daniel Lee’s Burberry seems to be hitting its stride. The show, held in the National Theatre’s industrial space, mirrored the collection’s palette — clean and modern with a focus on showcasing his technical brilliance with an adventurous type of casual romance.

Standouts included reworked trench coats with unexpected cuts and proportions and a play on the brand’s classic check. The collection felt fresh yet respectful of Burberry’s heritage, with obvious touches to early 2000s Burberry. Reimagined parkas layered over sequin dresses and draped jersey looks whispered of past trends but with a modern twist. The menswear mirrored this theme, hybridizing utility with heritage. Think technical jackets and safari parkas, perfect for those who want heritage style with a modern edge. Cargo pants were reinvented in silk and cotton, stripped of excessive pockets and given a contemporary slouch. Lee’s understanding of Burberry’s core pieces shines through, particularly in the reworked trench coats. But it’s the shrunken biker jackets and party-ready parkas that show how this outerwear can work beyond traditional settings. The collection may be a sleeper hit, with the dresses and blouses becoming the pieces that truly define Lee’s Burberry vision. Time will tell if this new collection will secure a dedicated fan base, but for now, it’s clear Lee is building a strong aesthetic code for the brand.

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From timeless one-pieces to chic bikinis and shorts for the boys, our swimwear edit has something for everyone
Riedel Amadeo Decanter and Wine Glasses

Update your glassware for the season of entertaining with our picks from The Studio of Tableware’s epic sale

As soon as the weather begins to improve, it’s to the outdoors that we rush — gathering friends and family to celebrate the changing of seasons over shared meals and drinks al fresco. Hosting is one of life’s greatest joys, and taking the time to perfect a table setting is a surefire way to elevate any occasion.

Understanding our collective desire to imbue our homes with artistry and elegance, The Studio of Tableware has curated one of the country’s most exquisite ranges of luxury homewares, with a particular emphasis on glassware, and in celebration of spring, the online retail destination is offering discounted prices on all things glass via an unmissable sale.

Here, you’ll find a host of striking vessels that not only improve the visual impact of your libations, but enhance and elevate the drinking experience, with glasses that go beyond their functional purpose to cut to the heart of the beverages for which they have been designed. From sleek and modern designs to ornate and traditional styles, whether adorned with intricate patterns or more understated, this coveted selection offers something for every beverage and any occasion.

As such, our editors have earmarked their must-have items in this covetable sale, and we’d suggest getting in quickly while the prices are still hot.

Studio of Tableware’s Sale
Our Editors’ Picks
Riedel Shadow Tumbler Pair from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Veloce Chardonnay Pair from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Curly Pink Decanter from Studio of Tableware
Spiegelau Elegance Tumbler Set from Studio of Tableware
Spiegelau Vino Grande Champagne Saucer Set from Studio of Tableware
Spiegelau Lifestyle Tumbler Glass Set from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Veloce Pinot Noir/Nebbiolo Pair from Studio of Tableware
Christofle Iriana Decanter from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Veritas Beer Glass Pair from Studio of Tableware
Rosenthal Triu Vase from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Bar DSG Rocks Glass Pair from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Veloce Champagne Wine Glass Pair from Studio of Tableware
WMF Water Carafe from Studio of Tableware
Spiegelau Soiree Long Drink Set from Studio of Tableware
Wilkie Brothers Isla Trifle Bowl from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Veritas Sauvignon Blanc Pair from Studio of Tableware
Eisch Platinum Whisky Decanter from Studio of Tableware
Riedel Mamba Decanter from Studio of Tableware
Spiegelau Lifestyle White Wine Glass Set from Studio of Tableware

thestudio.co.nz

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Whitebait season is here, and this is the perfect spot to get your fix

For anyone who covets the light, delicate taste of whitebait, you will be pleased to know that the time has come, once again, to celebrate gastronomy’s tender delicacy in all its glory. Whether showcased in a flavourful fritter, or lightly floured and fried to crisp perfection, whitebait is set to take centre stage at menus city-wide over the coming weeks — but no one does it quite like Sìso.

Here, across the month of September come lunchtime (12-3pm) Wednesday through Sunday, you’ll find whitebait served in every which way — kicking off with an alluring whitebait special. For $49, you’ll find a tasty, decidedly Kiwi whitebait fritter — served atop a soft, buttered round of white bread, with saffron lime aioli, accompanied by a crisp glass of Perrier-Jouët’s Grand Brut.

And, as the month progresses, chef Michael Hill and his clever team will be rolling out a series of whitebait-centric dishes, the first of which sees these tasty morsels served the British way — but with an elevated Sìso slant. The Whitebait Crispy Roll sees whitebait individually dusted in flour and fried, served wrapped up in pillowy soft Tip Top bread, with a sumac, saffron and lime sauce. Sublime.

Keep an eye on the menu (or simply stop by on the regular) to wholly embrace whitebait season at Sìso.

sisobarandeatery.co.nz

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