Modern Marvels: The Ninja XXXL FlexDrawer Air Fryer is the versatile kitchen appliance you need to know

With its generous proportions and clever, in-built technology, the Ninja XXXL FlexDrawer Air Fryer eliminates back-to-back, multi-pan cooking, with capacity to divide and simultaneously prepare dual components of any meal.

Perfect for family mealtimes or entertaining, with this clever appliance, you can prepare protein and veggies in tandem — making roasts a breeze, summer salads simpler than ever, and the kid’s meals stress-free.

As Ninja’s largest air fryer, the XXXL FlexDrawer unlocks the ability to feed the whole family — with capacity to cook larger proteins (like whole chickens) and plenty of vegetables in one draw, or divide different elements of a meal — cooking two foods, two ways with Ninja’s Smart Finish setting.

There are seven functions, from air frying to baking, roasting to reheating, proofing, dehydrating, and keeping things at the perfect temperature, offering a simple, speedy solution to busy mealtimes.

ninjakitchen.co.nz

Design

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Imbuing our homes with the essence of Soho House’s vibrant venues, Soho Home sets a new benchmark for living well

Soho House’s legacy began in the mid-nineties, when founder Nick Jones opened the first venue on London’s Greek Street above his restaurant, Cafe Boheme. A chic, eclectic boutique residence and private club situated in a Georgian house in Soho, this first iteration set the tone for all that followed, as Jones quickly captured the attention of the cultural capital’s creative elite. 

Now, you’ll find Soho House venues across the globe, eschewing the stuffy and trite nature of traditional member’s clubs and luxury hotels to offer thoughtful spaces with a homely yet unique atmosphere, affording members a consistent yet novel experience with each visit. From New York to Barcelona, Mumbai to Rome, no matter which of the 43 venues you visit, you’ll find meticulously planned spaces, designed with the lifestyle of creatives top of mind. Each ‘House’ includes spaces for drinking, dining, unwinding, working, and leisure, with screening rooms, rooftop pools, and, perhaps most notably, a curated collection of artworks which shape the distinct ambience.

Not a hotel chain, nor a hospitality business, nor exclusively a private member’s club, Soho House has solidified itself as an interconnected series of cultural hubs, its allure ever-present, despite the location. From a design perspective, its success lies in a unique ability to implement a bespoke design approach sympathetic to each building and city, while maintaining a central set of creative codes that link each House.

And it’s the thoughtful design of the venues that brings to life the now world-straddling brand’s essence. When speaking on Soho House’s design approach, Jones told Dezeen, “I think that, above all, it’s got to be comfortable,” — a modus operandi enlivened by the company’s interiors venture, Soho Home, which is available exclusively in New Zealand via Design Central.

The elevated brand offers a curated edit of the furniture, tableware, accessories, lighting, home fragrance, and textiles found at the Houses around the world; an offering members and non-members alike have been requesting since Greek Street. The Soho Home range invites those who have admired the Houses’ hallmark interiors to bring the covetable brand into their own homes —  each thoughtfully-designed piece bringing with it that inimitable sense of relaxed yet elevated, social living that has become synonymous with Soho House.

Shop the range


MIRRA DINING TABLE by Soho Home from Design Central
VIVIENNE ARMCHAIR by Soho Home from Design Central
LOVETT CHAIR by Soho Home from Design Central
MARCEL MEDIA UNIT by Soho Home from Design Central
MORRELL CHAIR by Soho Home from Design Central
CHARLI DINING TABLE by Soho Home from Design Central
RAILTON DESK by Soho Home from Design Central
CURVE FLOOR LAMP by Soho Home from Design Central

designcentralnz.co.nz

Design

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Andiamo's Leek and Truffle Honey Pizza

Tantalise the taste buds with our edit of the best dishes to ignite the senses this Spring

In a world where our next sensory fix is often served via an Instagram post designed to satiate our appetites, we’re encouraging you to go beyond the digital realm and engage your senses by indulging in a little tantalising of the taste buds.

Have you ever stopped to think about why a juicy steak ignites your taste buds, or why a tangy lime awakens your senses? The answer lies in a fascinating dance of five basic flavours: sweet, salty, sour, umami and bitter (which we’ve replaced here with spicy for its tasty and compelling properties). These profiles, detected by our taste buds, are far more than just sensations; they are deeply woven into our biology, wellbeing, and even our history.

Sweetness, a primal pleasure trigger, signalled readily available energy for our ancestors. Salt, crucial for regulating bodily fluids, became a precious commodity in early nomadic societies. Sourness, with its cleansing properties, may have helped guide our ancestors towards potentially nutritious fermented foods. Spice, once scarce and potentially medicinal, now excites our palates and boosts circulation. Umami, the essence of savouriness, provided a satisfying richness to protein-rich foods.

Claire wears Bulgari Serpenti High Jewellery earrings and necklace, Bulgari Serpenti white gold bracelets and rings. Photo by Olivia Kirkpatrick.

Over millennia, these taste preferences evolved into culinary traditions. Today, chefs leverage this knowledge, crafting dishes that tantalise our taste buds while subtly influencing our health. A perfectly seasoned steak might be both delicious (umami) and a source of protein and iron (salty). A vibrant Thai curry might entice with its sweetness and spice, promoting digestion and blood flow.

This exploration of taste is more than just a foodie adventure. It’s a journey into the intricate connections between our senses, our history, and the symphony of flavours that define a truly satisfying meal. Here, we introduce dishes that will help you appreciate the world of taste. By understanding these five flavour profiles, we can become more mindful eaters, appreciating the intricate dance of tastes that chefs have created in each dish, ultimately making for a balanced and truly enjoyable dining experience.

Tantalise the Taste Buds
Salty

Enhancing a savoury dish, salt isn’t just a seasoning, it’s a classic technique used to elevate dishes and tantalise our taste buds. It boosts flavour, adding a savoury intensity that lifts any dish to new heights. Think of the satisfying richness it brings to meats, the depth it adds to cured seafood, or the way it makes fries and buttery sauces sing. It’s a crave-worthy characteristic that keeps you coming back for more.

Tantalise the Taste Buds
Sweet

Not to be relegated to just the dessert menu, sweetness adds subtle complexity, balancing richness and highlighting savoury notes. Think of the caramelised sweetness of roasted vegetables, the sweet-smoky glaze on grilled meats, or the way it enhances the fruitiness in certain sauces. These dishes showcase how sweet notes can be incorporated into savoury creations, adding depth and unexpected complexity.

Tantalise the Taste Buds
Spicy

While not an official flavour profile, spicy still deserves major recognition for its complex dance that ignites taste buds, stimulates circulation, and adds depth. Think of the fiery warmth of chillies, the tingling sensation of Szechuan peppercorns, or how it complements savoury sauces and cuts through the richness of curries and stir-fries.

Tantalise the Taste Buds
Umami

The elusive fifth taste is the heart and soul of savoury dishes, delivering an explosion of rich and deeply satisfying flavours. It’s the essence of “meaty” or “brothy” flavours, triggering a satisfying sensation on the tongue. Think of the luxurious depth in aged cheeses, the intense savouriness of perfectly cooked mushrooms, or the way it elevates stews and braises to a whole new level.

Tantalise the Taste Buds
Sour

Sour flavours are not just the realm of lemons. Acidity is used to create depth, balance, and an unexpected vibrancy in dishes. The vibrant acidity cuts through richness, brightens flavours, and awakens the palate. Think of the tangy zing in citrus sauces, the refreshing bite in fermented foods like kimchi, or the way it balances the heaviness of an otherwise rich dish.

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
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Denizen’s definitive guide to the best fish and chips in Auckland — and the scenic spots to enjoy them

Mark your calendars — Toast Martinborough is back

Toast Martinborough, New Zealand’s most loved celebration of exceptional wines, fine food, and summer tunes among the vines, is returning this summer with a new Wellington Anniversary date. With six iconic winery locations to experience along a walkable ‘Festival Road’, fine food purveyors, and musicians coming together, it is set to be one of the season’s most unmissable events.

Alongside a calendar of events over the long weekend, the iconic festival takes place on Sunday, January 19th along a picturesque 2.5km stretch from The Runholder to Ata Rangi. Revellers are invited to explore each boutique location, with bespoke culinary offerings and live music creating a unique atmosphere at each winery.  

The Runholder’s VIP experience

The Runholder is the perfect place to start your day with a glass of Palliser Estate’s famous bubbles, or a pinot or chardonnay from Te Kairanga or Martinborough Vineyard. Settle in to the shaded cottage gardens with the culinary creations of Shed 5, Crab Shack, Mao & Co, and Goodtimes to pair. At The Vintage Bar, each winemaker will be pouring special and rare drops pulled from their cellar, while garden games and the summer tunes of the Uptakes and DJ Coda & Jen will provide ample atmosphere for the perfect festival afternoon. For those after something brewed rather than fermented, The Runholder will also be serving perfectly chilled beer from the local Martinborough Brewery.

Or, for those wanting to elevate their experience, The Runholder VIP experience affords access to The Runholder lounge including a three-course paired wine lunch, dedicated VIP amenities, and a private bar against a backdrop of breathtaking views from the edge of the Martinborough Terrace. Add a winemaker masterclass, or join the magnum party in the Tasting Room. As dusk falls, circle back to The Runholder to celebrate the day that was at their Sundown Party (almost sold out!).

Left: delicious food by Rose and Smith cooked over fire and coals. Right: Moy Hall
authentic, hand-stretched Italian pizza from Colombo

A 15 minute walk or five minute peddle along the Festival Road, Moy Hall is a quaint, charming spot that embodies Martinborough’s essence perfectly. Savour delicious food cooked over fire and coals by Rose and Smith, or authentic, hand-stretched Italian pizza from Colombo. Moy Hall’s kitchen will star local produce, and, of course, there will be a number of wines on offer produced from the surrounding vines. Will Prior, Winsome Lost, and festival favourites The Noodles will keep toes tapping throughout the day. Moy Hall will be pouring Parrot Dog Beer for those wanting a palate cleanser.

A further five minute stroll along the Festival Road, join Luna Estate in the Moon Garden for live blues, jazz, and top DJs. When you’re ready for a bite, indulge in delicious snacks from award-winning Plonk and Graze and raise a glass of rosé to an unforgettable party. Or, join Luna’s Winemakers Lunch, where you will be treated to a six-wine tasting of Luna Estate, Big Sky and Schubert, with each winemaker walking you through their wines plus a special three-course menu with an optional wine match for each course.

Poppies Martinborough

Another short walk between the vines brings festival goers to Poppies Martinborough, joining the festival for the first time this summer. Poppies will be pouring an array of the winery’s much-loved aromatic wines and Garage Project beers, accompanied by delectable global street food by Nick Arnold’s Trestle & Mortar. Shaun Preston along with Hype Entertainment will be completing the perfect wine, food and music occasion with classics and lively tunes. 

Next, the picturesque Tirohana Estate, renowned for its award-winning restaurant and fine artisan wines offers plenty of seating and shade under its elegant grand marquee. For those who want to sit back and relax, choose from the terraces overlooking the vines, or the garden dotted with trees. For those who want to party and dance, the Neemias (featuring Drew Neemia), the Satisfactions and DJ Ivan will be setting the mood for the afternoon.

Left: The tasting room at Ata Rangi. Right: delicious dishes from Egmont St Eatery

Completing the Festival Road is Ata Rangi, a legendary winery set in the heart of their vineyards. Share a glass of Ata Rangi wines alongside delicious food created by Egmont St Eatery. Or, for those looking to enhance their experience, The Vintage Room offers an intimate space of vintage and single vineyard wines, with the winemaking team and The Egmont St Pop Up wining and dining VIP guests to their heart’s content. Café L’affare will be in the shade of the trees for your coffee fix, and The Bicycle Kitchen have doughnuts and gelato for a sweet treat.

And, because showcasing the best of Martinborough takes more than one day, Toast is inspiring guests to make a long weekend of it, with a number of events taking place across the entire weekend, including opening festivities on Friday evening and the return of the Lighthouse Gin Garden Party on Saturday. The Tauherenikau Glamping Village is also back, with transfers provided to and from the festival. Or, if you’re making the pilgrimage from Wellington, Palmerston North or Wairarapa, return bus travel is available.

Tickets are selling fast, and are on track to be sold out well in advance of the festival, with several VIP options close to sold out. So we suggest gathering your wine friends and secure your tickets here today.

toastmartinborough.co.nz

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
Azabu Misson Bay

Where to enjoy an al fresco meal at Auckland’s best outdoor dining venues

With the weather rapidly, finally warming, and a weekend on the horizon, ease yourself into spring by booking an indulgent long lunch al fresco or ‘en terrasse’ style at one of Auckland’s best outdoor dining venues. To guide you in your decision-making, we’ve rounded up a number of the city’s best dining spots for fresh, balmy air and a delicious meal to match.

Andiamo

Andiamo

Settle in on one of Andiamo’s sun-soaked outdoor tables and enjoy the delectable, Italian-inspired fare of Herne Bay’s favourite neighbourhood eatery. Tables fill up fast, so get there early and indulge in a refreshing spritz to kick off what is sure to be a long and convivial afternoon.

Soul Bar & Bistro

Soul Bar & Bistro

Holding prime position, with tables overlooking the sparkling Viaduct Harbour and festooned with florals from above, there is no better place to celebrate the good life than at Soul. Order a round of satiating cocktails, and a plate or two of delicious food, and settle in for a memorable experience at this stunning stalwart.

Bivacco

Another incredibly popular Viaduct Harbour spot for soaking in the sun while enjoying some stellar hospitality is Bivacco. With a large interior deck that is always bathed in light, as well as wrap-around outdoor tables, the setting here is second to none and the vibes always lively. Sit back with a crisp cocktail in hand and take in Bivacco’s epic vantage point of the Harbour — this is sure to be one of the most sought-after seats this season.

Palmer Bar

Palmer Bar

Offering a decidedly elevated ambience in the heart of the city, Palmer‘s outdoor area is the perfect place to spend a sun-soaked afternoon. Park up here after finishing the workday for a tasty tipple and a bite from Palmer’s utterly delicious menu.

San Ray

Recently opened in the space that previously housed Orphan’s Kitchen, San Ray is an elevated all-day eatery that caters to all, with myraid options for drinking, dining, stopping by, staying all day, and anything (and everything) in between. Out the back, the covered patio is the perfect spot for convivial drinks and snacks, coming alive in the afternoon and amping up as the sun goes down.

Beau

Nestled in Ponsonby’s Three Lamps, wine bar Beau enlivens the area with its tasty bites, great drinks and hidden, sunny courtyard. The menu is perfect for grazing, the wine list is ever-changing and always exciting, and the courtyard tables are some of the most coveted in town. If you miss out, there are also a few tables out front to perch and watch the world go by.

Parade

Parade’s epic burgers are the perfect compliment to its take on outdoor dining. With beer-garden vibes and a menu of cocktail jugs designed to be shared, we’re all for finding any excuse to tuck into one of its burgers in the sun.

Hotel Ponsonby

Hotel Ponsonby

One of Ponsonby’s most popular gastropubs, Hotel Ponsonby, with its light-filled courtyard, is a great location for laid-back sundowners, followed by convivial socialising when the temperature drops. There, enjoy the venue’s satiating plates and thirst-quenching cocktails with a group of friends.

The Grill

Beloved SkyCity eatery (and Auckland institution) The Grill has returned, now set within Horizon by SkyCity — complete with a sprawling courtyard. Here, you’ll find a refined take on New Zealand’s finest steak and seafood, approached through a contemporary lens, alongside great drinks, and a perfect outdoor dining area to settle in for a springtime meal with friends.

Odettes Eatery

For those workdays that call for a long, out-of-office lunch, Odettes’ glorious courtyard provides the perfect experience. Open, cosy and plant-laden, with a delicious menu to boot, it feels like a refreshing breath of air amid the busyness of City Works Depot.

Somm Cellar Door

Somm

Nestled in a prime position within Princes Wharf, Somm Cellar Door not only affords its guests incredible, waterfront views — both from inside the eatery and the coveted harbourside tables, but is also home to what is perhaps the city’s most impressive collection of wine. Couple this with consistently tasty food and a laid-back vibe, and you’ve got a more than perfect place to spend a relaxed few hours at any time of day.

Williams Eatery

Home to one of the most delicious brunches in the city, Williams Eatery’s outdoor tables provide a perfect al fresco setting. The north-facing outlook capitalises on its sunny position, and we think lunches here are always best served with a chilled glass of pét nat.

Azabu Mission Bay

Azabu Mission Bay

One of the best spots in the Eastern Beaches, Azabu Mission Bay and its Gin Garden offer the ideal setting in which to savour a long lunch or dinner. There you can enjoy the restaurant’s renowned, Japanese-Peruvian cuisine while looking out to the waters of Mission Bay, and luxuriating in the season’s long, languid afternoons.

Bodega

Bodgea only opened it’s doors a few months ago, but has already solidified itself as a laid-back go-to for city-siders, so sought-after (and delicious) is their New York-style deli fare. With only a small number of tables out front, you’ve got to get in quick to nab an outdoor spot, but the juice is worth the squeeze — affording diners a front row seat to the hustle and bustle of Ponsonby Road.

Prego

Fancy a fun-filled lunch or dinner with family and friends? Pop into Prego and request one of its outdoor tables for a superior dining experience. Enjoy this stalwart’s tried and true Italian dishes with an expertly-made martini or a glass of wine and relax in the restaurant’s always-busy, vibrant vibe.

Darling on Drake

Boasting a sprawling, sun-soaked terrace (the largest in Central Auckland, in fact), rotating DJs, a stunning fit-out, and a meticulously crafted food and drink menu (no wonder too, with hospitality maestro Fraser Kirby at the helm), Darling on Drake is the place to be for post-work sundowners.

Non Solo Pizza

Non Solo Pizza

Nestled on Parnell’s main strip, Non Solo Pizza is one of our favourite go-to spots for its mouthwatering menu and exceptional atmosphere. There, park up at one of the tables in NSP’s verdant courtyard and be transported to Italy for a long lunch or dinner.

First Mates, Last Laugh

Taking up one of the city’s most coveted positions, First Mates, Last Laugh is a delightful place to drink and dine, with a number of outdoor seating options, a tasty menu — with both grazing options and hearty meals on offer, and great drinks. Nab one of the cosy booths under shade tents, or, if you want to soak up the day’s rays, settle in on the front deck overlooking Westhaven Marina.

The Heke

Known for being one of the best places to go with kids on Waiheke Island, The Heke in Onetangi is a must-visit springtime destination. Pull up to one of the many outdoor tables (there are under-cover and open-air options), and tuck into something from the wood-fired grill while the little ones amuse themselves on the vast front lawn.

Man O’ War

Man O’ War

Should you find yourself on Waiheke Island, seeking something substantial to eat after a long day sailing the seas, pull up a perch on Man O’ War’s beloved lawn. With a simple food offering of sharing plates and pizzas, alongside the famous oyster food truck, this is the epitome of springtime dining.

Queens Rooftop

With 270-degree views of the Waitematā Harbour, Queens Rooftop is the pinnacle of al fresco dining, affording diners views east to the Coromandel, to the north, and the west to the Waitakere Ranges. Grab a table as the sun goes down, order a selection of tasty bites and a satiating cocktail, and see where the night takes you.

Auckland Fish Market

Another great option for delicious food with kids in tow, Auckland Fish Market boasts a range of flavourful eateries that offer something for everyone — from Lobster & Tap to Oji Sushi and more — all of the food here can be enjoyed onsite, at one of the Fish Market’s many outdoor tables.

Knead on Benson

On a coveted corner of Remuera, Knead on Benson turns out epic brunch and lunch fare, with a number of outdoor tables lining the street — adding to the neighbourhood eatery’s vibrant ambience. Here, you’re greeted like an old friend, by staff and diners alike, and can count on always-perfect coffee, and food sure to satisfy even the most discerning of diners.

Milenta

Milenta

Nestled in Victoria Park is a hidden gem serving delicious Argentinian-inspired, wood-fired food. On a sunny day, Milenta’s retractable roof will be pulled right back to offer diners a full, al fresco experience, where the sun will spill through the tree-lined surroundings, for a beautiful, memorable experience.

Anise

Sid and Chand Sahrawat’s Anise sits pride of place in the space which once housed The French Café, bringing an artful, inventive take on Asian-inspired fare to the stunning location. Here, you’ll find myraid dining rooms, all of which envelop a central courtyard reminiscent of an old French quarter; complete with a roaring fireplace, fragrant herb gardens, and plenty of space for al fresco dining. 

Akarana Eatery

With a relaxed vibe and delightful menu, Akarana Eatery is the perfect place to take in the views across the picturesque Okahu Bay. Opt for a table on the eatery’s sunny deck and watch the world go by while enjoying a spot of exceptionally tasty fare. The kids will love it here, too.

Saint Alice

With views across Viaduct Harbour, Saint Alice’s elevated position is the ideal spot to watch the world go by with a drink in hand and some tasty food on the table. This is the perfect place for some late afternoon and evening revelry thanks to its sensational setting, seafood-centric menu and great music.

Swashbucklers

For a classic feed and some drinks by the water, nowhere does casual, laid-back vibes and tasty, easy food like Swashbucklers. Gather some friends, bring the kids, park up at an outside table and tuck into one of Swashies’ famous seafood platters. The perfect way to while away a sunny afternoon.

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

Shop the look: Take cues from our effervescent coverstar, Lydia Peckham, with this edit of fashion and jewellery to buy now

Photography by Guy Coombes | Styling by Claire Sullivan-Kraus | Creative Direction by Anna Saveleva | Hair and Makeup by Kiekie Stanners

From an idyllic childhood on an apple orchard in Nelson to starring in one of the year’s biggest blockbuster films — Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, coverstar Lydia Peckham’s rise in Hollywood has been a journey. And the inimitable actress is undoubtedly on the path to superstardom. With an effervescent personality and contagiously optimistic outlook, Peckham was a joy to shoot for our Spring Issue cover story on location at Rahimoana, Eagles Nest in the Bay of Islands, instantly enlivening the stunning jewels and clothes she wore for the shoot.

Here, taking sartorial notes from the rising star, we have curated a ‘shop the look’ line-up of exceptional pieces to introduce a little necessary glamour to your wardrobe. Shop the look now.

Pasquale Bruni Petit Joli earrings from Hartfield
Pasquale Bruni Petit Joli ring from Hartfield
Pasquale Bruni Petit Joli Sautoir from Hartfield
Pasquale Bruni Petit Joli bracelet from Hartfield
Pasquale Bruni Petit Joli ring from Hartfield
Christopher Esber Verve Twisted Tee Dress from Muse
Pasquale Bruni Petit Joli ring from Hartfield
Gianvito Rossi Futura Mules from Faradays

Pasquale Bruni Giardini Segreti earrings from Hartfield 
Square collar top from Celine
Pasquale Bruni Giardini Segreti collier from Hartfield 
Pasquale Bruni Giardini Segreti bracelet from Hartfield 

Yvette Dress from Reine
Pasquale Bruni Heart to Earth bracelet from Hartfield 
Pasquale Bruni Giardini Segreti collier from Hartfield 
Pasquale Bruni Giardini Segreti earrings from Hartfield 
Christopher Esber Minette Crystal Micro Heel from Muse

Sequinned dress from Sportmax
Pasquale Bruni Aleluiá bracelet from Hartfield 
Pasquale Bruni Aleluiá earrings from Hartfield 
Pasquale Bruni Aleluiá choker from Hartfield 

Anagram wool-blend sweater from Loewe
Pasquale Bruni Giardini Segreti ring from Hartfield 
Pasquale Bruni Giardini Segreti bracelet from Hartfield 
Pasquale Bruni Heart to Earth choker from Hartfield 

Coveted

Stay cool as the weather heats up with these sleek new sunglasses worthy of a place in your collection
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

Need a weekend read? These are the newly released novels and real-life reads to dive into

If you’re seeking something new to read, look no further than our curation of new releases below. There have been some stellar books released this season (with a few more available now for pre-order) — from captivating novels to moving memoirs to educational non fiction. Not to mention the International Booker Prize winners and runners up being announced — inviting us to look at things from a different perspective. And with something to suit almost any taste, we’ve rounded up our picks. These are the books to read now.

What to read
New Novels

Intermezzo 
by Sally Rooney

As has become unfaltering in Rooney’s work, Intermezzo sweeps you up from the first line and holds you until the final page, wholly engaged and absorbed in the central characters’ nuanced lives. At its heart, Intermezzo is a tale of love, loss, and the complexity of family, as two brothers in the throes of grief navigate new beginnings.

Think Again 
by Jacqueline Wilson

An adult novel by beloved kids’ author Jacqueline Wilson, Think Again revisits Ellie, Magda and Nadine from the wildly popular Girls series, now aged 40. As Ellie approaches a monumental birthday, life decides to throw her a curveball, with Wilson perfectly capturing the nuances of friendship, family, and fulfilment in a way only she can. 

The Life Impossible 
by Matt Haig

Filled with wonder and adventure, international bestselling author Matt Haig lays out an incredible journey of discovery, as protagonist, Grace, sets out to uncover the mysteries of her long-lost friend, unearthing truths stranger than she could have dreamed of and finding the promise of a new life along the way. 

The Hypocrite 
by Jo Hamya

Jo Hamya, touted by many as the next Rachel Cusk, masterfully crafts a novel set between London and Sicily, centred on a complex argument between an up-and-coming young playwright who turns her novelist father’s shortcomings into her own theatrical fodder, and a father who increasingly fears his daughter’s voice.

What to read
Real-Life Reads

From Here to the Great Unknown 
by Lisa Marie Presley & Riley Keough 

This posthumous memoir is composed of two voices, as Presley tells her raw and riveting story through the lens of her only daughter. Profoundly moving and deeply revealing, mother and daughter come together across the transom of death to tell the tale of a true legend. 

Sonny Boy, A Memoir 
by Al Pacino

One of the world’s most iconic acting greats, Al Pacino, lays his life bare in Sonny Boy. Part memoir, part love letter to his craft, Pacino charts his life and life’s work, telling of his ascent from bohemian, avante-garde theatre fixture to Hollywood legend, mapping the trials, tribulations, and thrills of life at the top. 

Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks 
by Yuval Noah Harari

Revered historian and storyteller Yuval Noah Harari presents yet another cerebral tome, this time calling into question the impact of information networks on our world. Taking us from the Stone Age to AI, Harari asks us to consider the complex relationship between information and truth, wisdom and power.

The Knowledge Gene
by Lynne Kelly

Drawing on a discovery with tremendous implications, Australian researcher Lynne Kelly has uncovered the source of human creativity in a supergene. Her findings, laid out within The Knowledge Gene, present a strong case for the importance of a fundamental emphasis on the arts — no matter who we are, or where we’ve come from. 

What to read
International Booker Prize

Kairos 
by Jenny Erpenbeck
Translated from German by Michael Hofmann

The first German book to win the International Booker Prize, Kairos is a lyrical and complex exploration of the influence politics and power have on love. Beautiful and challenging; an intimate and devastating portrait of two lovers lost in the ruins of a relationship, set against the backdrop of a seismic period in European history. Michael Hofmann masterfully translates the eloquence and eccentricities of Erpenbeck’s writing, her musical prose, and the expanse of her emotional vocabulary, to deliver a truly beautiful piece of literature. 

What I’d Rather Not Think About 
by Jente Posthuma
Translated from Dutch by Sarah Timmer Harvey

This heartbreaking yet hilarious story explores the inexplicable link tethering twins. As the protagonist tells the story of her depressive brother who has taken his own life, she reflects on their connected life, discovering truths about herself along the way. 

The Details 
by Ia Genberg
Translated from Swedish by Kira Josefsson

Part meditation on how the decisions we make impact our lives irrevocably, part intimate exploration of our most important relationships, this stunning novel about a woman in the throes of a fever vividly captures what it means to be human. 

A Dictator Calls 
by Ismail Kadare
Translated from Albanian by John Hodgson

A Dictator Calls is profound and political, inspired by an alleged phonecall in June 1934 between Joseph Stalin and Boris Pasternak. A fascinating look into Soviet Russia, authoritarianism, power structures, and a period of great writers.

Lost on Me 
by Veronica Raimo
Translated from Italian by Leah Janeczko

A funny, sharp, wonderfully readable novel that takes us to the heart of a fractured, unpredictable Italian family in 1980s Rome, as protagonist Vero navigates an anxiety-affiliated mother, obsessive compulsive father, and genius brother, and seeks an escape. 

Culture

Update your playlist for the road trips ahead with our round-up of the new albums and podcasts that have our attention
With so many exceptional events happening in the city this summer, we round up where to eat, drink, play and stay
From open-air opera to music festivals and more, our Summer Culture Guide has everything to book this season

New & Noteworthy: This is everything on our radar this week

Celine’s Foray into Beauty


The Celine Beauté collection, designed by Hedi Slimane, is here at last — much to the delight of beauty-lovers the world round. Following the successful launch of the maison’s haute perfumery collection in 2019, the beauty line feels like a natural evolution. The perfect French red lip — dubbed Rouge Triomphe, inaugurates the Celine Beauty Ritual by Hedi Slimane, dressed in a faceted gold sheath and embossed with Celine’s couture monogram, soon to be followed by a slew of chic products — from mascaras to brushes, blushes, and everything in between. Those looking to wholly embrace the Celine beauty experience can also nab a made-to-order, monogrammed vanity, elevating your beauty routine to new heights.

celine.com

Powersurge’s Colour Fall Table Collection


Over the past three decades, Powersurge has created some of the most enduring designs and interiors in Aotearoa. Celebrating 30 years in business, the iconic brand has unveiled a limited
edition release — the Colour Fall Table Collection. Iconic with a timeless elegance vested in lines and negative space, the collection is archetypally minimalist, offering both a coffee table and side table cast in modern pastels. The limited edition pieces extend three playful refined hues, complimenting modern living and contemporary design.

powersurge.co.nz

Bulgari Tubogas Collection


Bulgari revitalises its iconic Tubogas collection with a fresh campaign that celebrates the timeless elegance of yellow gold. Originally concieved in the 1940s, this bold design blends innovative craftsmanship with modern flair, introducing 16 new pieces, ranging from minimalist gold designs to vibrant gemstone-studded creations. Each piece highlights the seamless integration of suppleness and aesthetics, making the Tubogas collection a stunning tribute to the maison’s Roman roots, and a symbol of contemporary luxury.

bulgari.com

Tiffany’s Take on Tennis


Tiffany has this week unveiled its ‘Diamonds by the Yard’ racket, created in partnership with Elsa Peretti. This one-of-a-kind racket honours the maison’s long-standing ties to the USTA. Forgoing traditional strings, the dazzling design features 108 bezel-set diamonds of over 30 total carats, sprinkled across platinum chains spanning over 13 yards in total, accompanied by a leather handle painted in black lacquer by artisans using an ancient Japanese technique known as inden, reflecting Peretti’s love of craft. The racket is on display at Tiffany’s innovative new pop-up at the 2024 US Open, which features a wall of tennis balls in their infamous blue hue, and replicas of the US Open Men’s and Women’s Singles Championship Trophies, crafted by Tiffany & Co. since 1987.

tiffany.com

Acme’s New Dinnerware


Best known for designing functional, durable, yet elegant tableware with a minimalist aesthetic, Acme has long-been a go-to at mealtimes. In the latest evolution of the Roman Range, the brand has unveiled a series of plates and bowls in a vibrant new hue — Kawakawa, a deep verdant shade inspired by New Zealand’s native shrub. Available in two tonal variations, and across four pieces, including both small and large plates and bowls, this chic new hue is sure to elevate any culinary occasion — from dinner parties to quiet mornings at home.

acmecups.nz

Coveted

Stay cool as the weather heats up with these sleek new sunglasses worthy of a place in your collection
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

Van Cleef & Arpels’ new Frivole creations are the embodiment of spring

Van Cleef & Arpels continues its tradition of poetic tributes to nature with the 2024 expansion of the Frivole collection. This year, the maison has unveiled five stunning new pieces, including a white gold 7-flowers bracelet, a rose gold Between the Finger ring, and a unique 8-flowers ring that marries rose and white gold.

Each piece shines with expertly selected diamonds, illuminating the skin with their sunny glow. The maison’s mastery of craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from diamond selection to the signature mirror-polished finish that has defined Van Cleef & Arpels’ creations since the 1920s.

Van Cleef & Arpels’ unique 8-flowers ring

One of the collection’s highlights is the white gold 7-flowers bracelet, which features nearly 300 meticulously set diamonds. The asymmetry of the design, combined with the heart-shaped petals’ gentle tilt, reflects the vitality and movement of nature. Similarly, the 8-flowers ring brings a fresh dialogue between rose and white gold, with flowers at varying heights adorned with diamonds to create a three-dimensional bouquet on the finger.

Van Cleef & Arpels’ white gold 7-flowers bracelet

A new aesthetic emerges in the rose gold pieces, particularly in the Between the Finger ring, where two mirror-polished flowers form a delicate tête-à-tête. The asymmetry extends to the diamond settings, emphasising the maison’s attention to detail and savoir-faire.

French artist and illustrator Alexandre Benjamin Navet

Adding a dynamic, artistic touch to this year’s collection is French artist and illustrator Alexandre Benjamin Navet, a close collaborator of Van Cleef & Arpels since 2020. Navet’s colourful, poetic world sets the stage for the Frivole collection, with his vibrant designs adorning boutiques and store windows notably. His spirited pencil strokes and lively compositions of flowers and decorative elements infuse the collection with a sense of wonder, transforming each piece into a celebration of both nature and artistic creativity.

vancleefarpels.com

Coveted

Stay cool as the weather heats up with these sleek new sunglasses worthy of a place in your collection
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

Looking to the striking Invisible House for inspiration, we round up the luxury lighting sure to elevate any home

With a fully mirrored exterior that seemingly disappears into the surrounding desert landscape, Invisible House in California’s Joshua Tree sits as a striking exploration of contrast — the sharp, angular structure offset by a minimalist interior palette and careful curation of iconic furniture, art, and lighting.

The homeowners looked to Flos to illuminate the space, seeking the brand’s minimalist yet contemporary aesthetic to mirror that of the house. Minimal and monolithic lights illuminate the firepit, while iconic pieces, such as the Aim Pendant give spaces a design-led edge. 

Shop the Edit


Arco Floor Lamp by Flos from ECC
Bellhop Floor lamp by Flos from ECC
Chiara Floor Lamp by Flos from ECC
Last Order table lamp by Flos from ECC
Noctambule Suspension 1 by Flos from ECC
Taccia Table Lamp by Flos from ECC
Wan by Flos from ECC
Snoopy by Flos from ECC

ecc.co.nz

Design

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