Swiss luxury brand Chopard has long been loved by celebrity royalty, and now, it’s supermodel and entrepreneur Bella Hadid that is flying the flag — announcing her appointment as global ambassador for the house via a striking new campaign.
Bella Hadid wearing Chopard Happy Diamonds collection — available from Partridge Jewellers
Adorned in some of Chopard’s most dazzling jewels, Hadid is captured in her understated essence by British fashion photographer and director Charlotte Wales, starring in a campaign which celebrates the purity, appeal, and contemporary character of the maison’s Ice Cube jewellery.
The unique ice cube motif pays tribute to minimalism — embodying an idea of geometric perfection as it magnifys the light bouncing off its facets. Chopard’s Co-President and Artistic Director Caroline Scheufele introduced this motif in 1999 through a watch that ditched flashy artifice to focus instead on pure shapes, with the collection continuing to evolve in a perpetual dialogue with light ever since. This latest iteration embodies the minimalism of modern architecture through its vertical nature, evoking the skyscrapers of international capitals that are natural homes to the avant-garde. These streamlined, geometric designs are showcased in the new ‘Sculpted by Light’ visuals starring Hadid — within which the notion of enduring over ephemeral is embodied.
Far from her first encounter with the brand, Hadid has long admired the luxury house — her stunning adornment at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival setting the tone for an enduring relationship. “I have so much appreciation for Chopard’s craftsmanship and have been an admirer of theirs for many years. I am so thrilled to be joining the Chopard family,” says Hadid.
Beginning her trailblazing career in the fashion industry at the young age of sixteen, Hadid has, over the years, has graced the covers of thirty different editions of Vogue, been named one of the most influential people in the world by Time, and dubbed the Model of the Year in 2022 at the British Fashion Awards. Hadid continues to enchant the world with her incandescent beauty, natural elegance, strength of character, and self-assured sense of style. Proving she’s much more than a pretty face, she has gone on to become a successful entrepreneur with her non-alcoholic drink company, Kin Euphorics, and her skin-nourishing fragrance Orebella, and this is just the beginning.
Chopard’s new ambassador, Bella Hadid, wearing their Happy Hearts collection — available from Partridge Jewellers
Now, as she steps into the ambassadorship role with Chopard, a new chapter dawns for both the model and the brand — with Hadid making a triumphant return to the fashion stage, and Chopard continuing to develop its offerings in watches and jewellery — renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to the highest ethical and environmental standards.
“Bella epitomises the spirit of Chopard: a harmonious mix of effortless elegance and a zest for life that are truly enchanting and perfectly resonate with what our watches and jewellery stand for. We are excited about embarking on this new journey together,” Caroline Scheufele, Co-President and Artistic Director of Chopard, says of the perfect partnership.
Here, we round up the stunning pieces within the collection that have our attention.
Shop the collection
Chopard Ice Cube
Bella Hadid wearing Chopard Ice Cube rings and bracelets from Partridge Jewellers
“My goal has always been to introduce New Zealanders to a unique side of Indian cuisine,” Sid Chopra tells me of his new venture, a modern Indian eatery nested in the heart of Auckland’s vibrant CBD, “In India, the culinary landscape shifts dramatically from one state to another, and with Goat, I aim to showcase a wide array of flavours from this vast and diverse culinary heritage. It’s about bringing the rich, authentic, and often unexplored flavours of India to the table, offering a dining experience that is both innovative and true to its roots.” And, from what we’ve seen so far, Chopra has met his mark — introducing an exciting new style of Indian food to Auckland’s diverse dining landscape.
right: Sid Chopra
At Goat, the experience goes well beyond the food alone — offering a culinary journey that captures the rich diversity and depth of Indian cuisine. “From the moment [our customers] step into Goat, we want them to feel a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects the essence of Indian hospitality,” says Chopra, explaining that his goal is to surprise and delight guests with flavours and dishes they may not have encountered before, showcasing the unexplored side of Indian food.
As such, the dining room is relaxed and inviting, set in a heritage building on Wyndham Street with exposed brick walls and lofty high ceilings — a space as perfectly suited to an intimate meal as it is a convivial dinner with friends.
Lamb Pattice — Panko, Spice Lamb Neck, Agria potatoes, Green Chili, Date Chutney
Chopra’s diverse and extensive experience spans two decades, including a 14-year stint as the Executive Chef at Prego, and the knowledge and insight he brings to this new venture is evident across the board. Travel has also been integral to Chopra’s culinary evolution — the chef having journeyed across India and around the world, immersing himself in diverse culinary traditions and techniques to build on his repertoire. “These experiences have inspired me to bring a unique and lesser-known side of Indian cuisine to my new restaurant, Goat — from India with Love.”
But Goat is far from a one-man-band, and the eatery’s General Manager, Monica Arora, and Head Chef, Nick Kumar, are also both are experts in their respective fields. Arora has a wealth of experience across hospitality and management, while Kumar worked alongside Chopra in the kitchen at Prego, and brings an incredible depth of knowledge across a range of cuisines.
On the food front, you’ll find a diverse, vibrant menu filled with dishes that are both creative and contemporary, yet approachable and authentic, spanning the vastness of India’s varied culinary landscape. According to Chopra, an unmissable menu highlight is the Champaran — a celebrated dish from the region of Bihar, that is a hearty and flavourful preparation of slow-cooked Goat meat, simmered in a blend of spices and onions. “The dish is known for its unique flavours and rich, thick gravy, which is infused with traditional spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, along with the freshness of garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Champaran offers a comforting and authentic taste of Bihari cuisine, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of the region,” says the chef.
He adds that, for him, the Chicken Titarpur is a nostalgic dish, dating back to his college days in Delhi. “A cherished favourite from my college days, Chicken Titarpur captures the essence of West Delhi’s vibrant street food scene. This beloved dish features tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, spicy Makhni gravy made with a blend of aromatic spices, onions, and tomatoes. Each bite evokes memories of college hangouts with friends, offering a comforting taste of Delhi’s irresistible flavours and street food culture.”
Laal Maas — Beef Short Ribs, Rajasthani Spices, Red Chilies, Garlic
The drinks list was imagined to perfectly compliment the epic fare on offer, with a wine list curated by one of New Zealand’s top sommeliers. “The idea was to create a concise and well-rounded selection that features both national and international wines, specifically chosen to complement the flavours of Indian cuisine,” says Chopra, adding that the main focus was enhancing the dining experience, ensuring that each wine pairs beautifully with the diverse and bold flavours on the menu.
There is also an inventive cocktail list, wholly inspired by the vibrant and diverse flavours of India. Each cocktail draws on traditional Indian ingredients, reimagined with a modern twist to complement Goat’s culinary offerings. “Our Tamarind Chilli Margarita blends the tangy richness of tamarind with the refreshing zest of lime, creating a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy notes. It’s a delightful fusion that captures the essence of India’s bold flavours,” Chopra tells me, adding that another standout is the Meetha Paan Cocktail, which reinterprets the classic Indian paan into a sophisticated drink. “This cocktail combines the sweet, aromatic flavours of betel leaf with a subtle mix of spices and a hint of rose, offering a unique and aromatic experience that transports you straight to the streets of India,” he explains.
“At Goat, we aim to create an experience that goes beyond just a meal,” says Chopra, “We want our customers to embark on a culinary journey that captures the rich diversity and depth of Indian cuisine.” With a chic, inviting dining space, a fantastic team at it’s helm, truly delicious food, and a thoughtful drinks offering that goes beyond the traditional to elevate the dining experience, Goat is primed to become one of the city’s go-to dining destinations, and an eatery certainly worthy of a spot on your regular rotation.
Opening hours: Tuesday — Thursday, 5pm ’til late Friday — Sunday, 12pm ’til late Monday, closed
Known for the way it always draws a convivial (and very well-dressed) crowd, the annual Melbourne Cup is undeniably a celebratory affair. And while the actual event isn’t taking place until Tuesday the 5th of November, so popular are the parties for its exciting races that Auckland’s best bars and restaurants often release tickets to their Melbourne Cup events now, all of which tend to promptly sell out. Here, we round up all the best places in Auckland to celebrate the big race, and we suggest securing your tickets now, lest you miss out.
Best Melbourne Cup Celebrations
Soul Bar & Bistro
SOUL’s Melbourne Cup Day is set to reach new heights this year, with the-race-that-stops-a-nation celebrations set to be as thrilling as the Flemington festivities themselves. Settle in with a flute of Mumm Grand Cordon before indulging in a delectable four-course lunch, while a series of big screens promise uninterrupted views of all the action. For those wanting to take a punt, there will be options to do so on-site. Dress to impress to wow the judges for Fashion In The Field, and bring your party spirit to partake in the many games and sweeps (with prizes galore), and, post-race, a DJ promises to keep the party going. Win or lose, this is guaranteed to be a day to remember. And, for those who don’t manage to secure a spot to the main event, SOUL’s bar will be open to the public from 3pm, with DJ’s playing straight after the race and SOUL set to host the best after-party in town.
Secure your spot by calling Soul on 09 356 7249.
Best Melbourne Cup Celebrations
Non Solo Pizza
Channel the spirit of the Italian coast at Non Solo Pizza’s decidedly chic Melbourne Cup affair. There, guests will be greeted with flutes of Veuve Clicquot Champagne on arrival before delving into a delectable, four-course long lunch, featuring a number of quintessential Non Solo Pizza dishes. Those who really dress for the occasion will want to be a part of NSP’s Fashions in the Field competition (with spot prizes up for grabs throughout the day), while others can just sit back and enjoy all the racing action live on big screens. A raft of rousing DJs will play the soundtrack to the day and keep the vibes going well into the evening, making this one of the very best places to be for those seeking a party to remember. Tickets start at $180 per person, so gather your friends and lock in the ultimate long lunch.
Food, fashion and fillies collide at Sìso’s epic Melbourne Cup celebration. Starting at 11.30am, guests will be greeted with a crisp glass of Mumm Rosé Champagne and treated to a delicious oyster bar before enjoying a three-course set menu. The big races will be shown live, of course, and there will also be live music by The Swingin’ Duet, featuring entertainment legend Peter Urlich on vocals and sax maestro Andrew Isdale. Following the main race Peter Urlich will take to the DJ decks to spin a selection of dance-floor classics to entice diners out of their seats. There will also be a bet-placing facility on site. Attendees are encouraged to pull out all the sartorial stops as there will be a $500 Fashion in the Field voucher up for grabs, presented by Maman Boutique. Tickets are $250 per person, tables will be configured in groups of six, eight, 10 or 12 and bookings are essential.
Bivacco Racing Club is the place to be for Melbourne Cup celebrations, where the glamour of the race meets the vibrant energy of a festival — set against the stunning backdrop of the sparkling Viaduct Harbour waterfront. Whether you’re a fashionista, a foodie, or a race enthusiast (or, all three), Bivacco has something for everyone — from an elevated buffet brimming with seafood, roasted meats, pasta, and seasonal salads, to plenty of Moët & Chandon Champagne (including a flute on arrival), Fashions in the Field with all a prize pool of over $5000 (including spot prizes), a line-up of renowned DJs, all the Melbourne Cup action streamed on large screens with live, on-site betting, and plenty of games, sweeps and prizes to be won. Gearing up to be the party of the year, tickets start at $200 per person, with different packages on offer.
And, as the race winds down, the party is just getting started at the Bivacco Afterparty — kicking off at 4pm. Enjoy Aperitivo Hour and catch the finale at 5pm, with a lineup of DJs getting the party started — and keeping it going well into the evening.
Experience the epitome of Melbourne Cup glamour at Esther, the exceptional restaurant set on the ground floor of the QT Auckland. From Mumm Champagne on arrival to ‘Fashions on the QT Field’, encouraging guests to flaunt their individual race day style with daring fascinators or floral ensembles, Esther is really setting the stage for a day of unparalleled opulence. Enjoy a three-course long lunch feast comprising Esther’s signature favourites, perfectly complemented by expertly-curated pours by the venue’s Director of Champagne and watch all the Cup action live on screen, all while being immersed in what is shaping up to be a fun, frivolous and unforgettable afternoon, running from late morning to early evening. Tickets are $149 per person.
Put on your finest dress and hat and get ready for an exhilarating Melbourne Cup celebration at Park Hyatt Auckland. Kick off the event with snacks and bubbles on arrival, then dive into an interactive kitchen experience serving premium cut meats and wok fried fish, followed by delectable fresh oysters and scampi from the BBQ and satisfy your sweet tooth with our dessert station featuring an array of spring carnival treats. Enjoy every moment with live race coverage on TV, door prizes, raffles and live entertainment throughout the event. Tickets are $168 per person.
After a few years’ hiatus, Melbourne Cup Day at Ellerslie Racecourse is back, promising a stylish gathering for those looking to celebrate the start of the summer racing season. With serveral packages to choose from, here, you can pop bottles of Moët & Chandon with top-tier hospitality in the Cuvée zone, or soak up the energy of the Silks Lounge or The Lawn. The day at Ellerslie promises live racing, fabulous fashion, and a vibrant atmosphere, capped off with an epic after-party featuring a live band and DJ set. It’s the perfect blend of glamour, gourmet food, and great entertainment, making it the ultimate celebration of the race that stops two nations.
Spring has sprung, and with it comes an exceptional line-up of cultural events inspiring you to get out and about. From a festival of architecture to incredible theatrical events to exhibitions you won’t want to miss, our September Culture Guide is filled with everything you need to keep you happily busy this month.
When & Where:Monday16th — Sunday 29th September, various locations country-wide
Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects has unveil this year’s Festival of Architecture programme — packed with inspiring events across the month of September. Not just about architecture, this unmissable event shines a spotlight on the capacity great design has to elevate life in Aotearoa, with a number of free open to all. Don’t miss the 2024 Resene Sir Ian Athfield Memorial Lecture, featuring Sebastián Irarrázaval — renowned architect and educator from Santiago, Chile, and the illuminating Architecture Women NZ Pecha Kucha presentation event, which celebrates the incredible contributions of female architects in Aotearoa. Dive into the details and secure your spot here.
When & Where: From now until 23rd February 2025, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
This fascinating and thought-provoking exhibition explores the pivotal role of female artists in the shaping and development of New Zealand’s modern art, from 1920 to 1970, revealing new connections, previously hidden themes and revelling in the theatre of modern art.
When & Where: From now until Saturday 14th September, Sumer Fine Art, Auckland
Sumer Gallery presents Pouring Light, an exhibition of new paintings by Sandra Bushby. Inspired by Joanna Margaret Paul, Bushby explores the intersection of poetry and painting through vivid colors, rhythmic forms, and spontaneous processes. Her work captures the dynamic interplay between emergence, erasure, and renewal in art.
For the first time, celebrated actors and partners in life, Jennifer Ward-Lealand and Michael Hurst perform together in In Other Words — a touching two-hander connected by Frank Sinatra’s music. This intimate love story explores the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and the power of music to connect us with the past, present, and future. Meet Arthur and Jane as they navigate love and illness in a production filled with life’s frustrations and humour.
Experience the pulse-pounding London sensation starring Beatriz Romilly in a tour-de-force performance. This shattering, solo drama by Tony Award-winning playwright Dennis Kelly begins with a chance encounter at a Naples airport and unravels a family’s dark secrets. Raw, passionate, and provocative, it explores gender politics and the shadowy side of love.
When & Where: From now until Sunday 22nd September, various locations across Auckland
After a year’s hiatus the festival that showcases the gloriously experimental and wildly innovative arts of Tāmaki is back. Featuring 56 acts across 14 performance spaces it’s time to celebrate with all of the wacky, political, funny and creative artists that will come together across the festival. This year’s programme is bursting with different genres and teeming with some clever, inspired and downright silly concepts. From burlesque to street dance, documentary theatre to comedy, and spoken word to music, this festival has it all. There’s even a magic show, a rain machine, and a human-sized fly.
When & Where: Thursday 19th — Wednesday 25th September, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Auckland
One of the greatest and most popular operas of all time, Verdi’s Rigoletto is set to be an unmissable performance. Set in 1950s Italy, this tragic tale of love, power, and revenge is a cornerstone of the operatic canon. Featuring iconic tunes like ‘La donna è mobile’ and a star-studded Kiwi and international cast, the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, and the NZ Opera chorus, sung in Italian with English surtitles, this production is a bucket-list event.
When & Where: Thursday 12th September — Friday 4th October, various locations country-wide
Celebrating 20 years of Tawata Productions, the acclaimed company takes their genre-bending, groundbreaking work Ngā Rorirori on tour. Directed by Hone Kouka, this unique production blends contemporary dance, theatre, farcical storytelling, and digital recording, as it humorously explores one whānau’s relationship with their land and a brother’s quest to commercialise their coastline, in a fusion of theatre and dance reminiscent of a silent film.
When & Where: 19th — 21st & 26th — 28th September, Stardome Observatory and Planetarium
Music and space converge at Strings Under the Stars — an unmissable show presented by Stardome and Auckland Philharmonia. This stellar series offers a performance by a string quartet of Auckland Philharmonia musicians and a captivating journey through space, with selections from Holst’s iconic work, The Planets, and the premiere of a new piece by New Zealand composer Kirsten Strom, commissioned by Auckland Philharmonia, accompanied by a planetarium show that’s intricately designed to both complement and elevate the transcendent music.
When & Where: Thursday 26th September — Sunday 13th October, TSB Arena, Wellington
Imagination becomes reality in the 2024 WOW show: Dream Awake. Explore six awe-inspiring realms, where the boundaries of theatrical spectacle, live music, dance, aerial choreography and wearable art are pushed to the extreme. Every night of the show season is a spectacular visual feast, offering a theatrical spectacle unmatched in both scale and impact.
Spring is finally here, and with it is a raft of delicious dining experiences that are set to help lift us right out of our winter slump. From a central city block party to mouth-watering events, spring solstice celebrations, seasonal set menus, long lunches and more, here we present our definitive September Dining Guide.
Celebrate Spring at SkyCity with Cassia’s Journey through India set menu
SkyCity’s signature restaurants have curated delicious seasonal menus highlighting spring flavours and ingredients, all including a glass of wine from Nautilus. Each eatery utilises the seasonal offerings in a unique way, as they refresh favourite dishes and craft exciting new ones with the spoils of spring front and centre. Plus, guests that dine at SkyCity throughout the month of September will receive free parking, making a meal in the heart of the city simpler than ever.
Head to Norma Taps for their Bledisloe Block Party
Norma Taps is set to transform the City Works Depot car park into an electrifying outdoor event this September, hosting a block party from 3pm — 11pm on Saturday 21st September centred around the highly anticipated upcoming Bledisloe Cup clash between the All Blacks and Australia.
The match will be shown on a massive LED screen, with commentary from the entertaining voices of The Alternative Commentary Collective, while Norma Taps’ signature kegged cocktails will be flowing at the outdoor bar, paired with a selection of game day dishes like smashed burgers, and an outdoor stage featuring top local DJs who will keep the energy alive post-match.
Bar Magda’s Aperitivo Hour is back, just in time for spring, with a number of satiating drinks and tantalising dishes set to fill the early hours of the evening. Everyday, from 5 — 6.30pm, you’ll find $15 cocktails, including spritz, the Magdarita, and Negronis, alongside a delicious selection of $15 and $9 snacks. For the former, you’ll find Barry’s Bay parmesan custard with house made focaccia, grilled chicken and duck parfait on brioche, and a terrine of spiced ham and crab fat mayo with toasts, while for the latter, you’ll discover lumpia of crab and prawn with plum sweet chilli, barbecue skewers of pork or chicken with satti sauce, and Magda’s signature lamb ribs with green sambal soft herbs. Or, if you’re hungry and wanting to trust the chef (which is always recommended when Carlo Buenaventura is on the tools), grab a snack feast for $50 or $65 — ideal for two.
In addition, Bar Magda is releasing its third vintage this month: 2023 Magda Fantasy. Made by Brood Fermentation from Moutere, Nelson, this wine was specifically made to complement the unique flavour profile of Bar Magda’s culinary offering — with two labels, one in English, and one in Filipino. Farmed organically on clay soils, Magda Fantasy is a bright, fruitful, aromatic blend of Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewurtztraminer, fermented with indigenous yeast in oak with extended barrel time — resulting in a rich, lightly oxidative drop with notes of apricot, fennel seed, nutmeg, honey and thyme.
The Snow Machine Festival returns to Queenstown from 4th — 8th September, with Ayrburn hosting a new daytime après experience at The Dell, with a bespoke line-up of live performances. On Saturday 7th September, Ayrburn will play host to a special event, with live music featuring Middle Kids and LadyHawke, or, if it’s culinary delights that you seek, indulge in a Wine & Tapas sitting, which will take place in The Manure Room daily at 11am or 1.30pm, or experience an iconic Poof Doof Drag Brunch on Friday 6th Sept at 11am. The dining destination is also opening up The Barrel Room for an indulgent Long Lunch on Saturday 7 September where, from 12pm, you’ll be treated to Ayrburn’s feast menu and a three hour drinks package, as well as ticket to The Dell event.
Enjoy a glass of nautilus estate sauvignon blanc (left) alongside a three-course meal, including either the market fish or chicken dijonnaise for the main course (right)
The original Ladies Lunch is back at Soul Bar & Bistro just in time for spring, and trust us when we say there is no better way to while away an afternoon with your girlfriends. From a delectable three-course meal to a glass of springtime bubbles to the picture-perfect water-wide setting and floral-festooned entrance, and, of course, an ever-lively vibe, there truly is nowhere better to celebrate the season in style.
Step into the House of Campari this September at QT Hotels across New Zealand. In celebration of Negroni Week (16th — 22nd September) Rooftop at QT will not only be slinging happy hour negronis (with $14 classics from 4 — 5pm daily), you’ll also find a Negroni tasting flight on offer. If you choose to indulge in the flight, vote for your favourite to be in to win a staycation at a New Zealand QT of your choice along with a bespoke Campari bar kit. While key celebrations will be taking place during Negroni Week, QT’s Bitter & Twisted negroni menus will be available until October 21st.
General Manager of Dog Point Vineyard, Matt Sutherland
On September 25th, indulge in a five-course menu meticulously crafted by Advieh’s partner chef, Gareth Stewart. Each dish showcases the bold and innovative flavours that define Advieh, perfectly complemented by Dog Point Wines, which are celebrated for their organic practices and the rich heritage of their Marlborough vineyard. Matt Sutherland, General Manager of Dog Point Vineyard, will be in attendance, sharing his extensive expertise in winemaking and offering insights into the vineyard’s history, Dog Point’s meticulous organic practices, and the unique characteristics that make each Dog Point wine truly remarkable. Tickets are $159 and include five courses and wine pairings.
As Commercial Bay kicks off its spring solstice celebrations, The Lodge Bar & Dining is serving up a delectable snacks special, serving as the perfect accompaniment to a few afternoon drinks looking out over the sparkling Waitematā. Here, you’ll find meat pie croquettes with smoked cheddar, a selection of cheeses with quince, honeycomb and crackers, marinated olives, and (of course) a hearty bowl of fries with spicy ketchup and blue cheese aioli, all for $82 — serving two to four, depending on how hungry you are.
Commercial Bay is pulling out all of the stops this solstice (13th — 15th September), with a number of fantastic offers running across the three-day event. At Queens Rooftop, you’ll find a glass of Piper-Heidsieck bubbles and a crayfish and kawakawa aioli brioche roll for $40, while, at Origine thirsty punters will discover two cocktails for $30. There are several other tasty happenings taking place, the details of which you’ll find here.
One of the first things Master Sommelier Cameron Douglas will tell you at Fisher & Paykel’s luxuriously appointed wine experience space is that wine inherently does not want to survive. “A wine collection is an investment that deserves specialised care — wine is organic, evolving as it ages, and it’s more fragile than you might think. When it comes to looking after wine — trust and integrity are everything.”
Douglas — an advisor to Fisher & Paykel on all things wine — knows what he’s talking about. Since 1969, when the first examination was first held at Vintners Hall, London, just over 280 people have earned the title Master Sommelier. Douglas is one of them — and New Zealand’s only Master Sommelier. He knows vintages and varieties, and he knows that if you cellar wine in the right climate, serve it at the right temperature, and pair it with the right food, you’ll maximise the enjoyment of every glass.
Something that four lucky Denizens and their plus ones will have the opportunity to experience, indulging in a personalised Mastery of Temperature Wine Experience with food pairing at the solid tōtara and basalt-slab cellar and tasting space at Fisher & Paykel’s exquisite Auckland Experience Centre, led by Douglas himself.
This bespoke space was designed to showcase two things: the way seamlessly integrated Wine Column Cabinets elevate the architectural experience of wine in the home; and the way quality of care — constant, neutral climates, free from light strike and vibration — give your collection the best opportunity to age gracefully and build complexity over time.
As a wine advisor to Fisher & Paykel, Douglas has seen first-hand the brand’s obsession with detail and the way they bring craft and technology together to create the conditions for perfect cellaring and serving. Designed with ActiveSmart™ technology and Variable Temperature Zones, Column Wine Cabinets let you simply choose a mode — cellar, red, white and sparkling. Within each mode, you can further adjust the climate to suit the specifics of a wine.
For a Central Otago pinot noir, you might select at 14°C to reveal complex cherry, black plum and savoury notes. For a powerful Rhône blend or Amarone della Valpolicella, an extra degree or two can result in a better expression of flavour and rounded tannins. Similarly, the ideal serving temperature for champagne will vary depending on the specific wine’s age and type.
Douglas describes quality of care as measured in time, taste and enjoyment. “Ultimately, wine is made to be enjoyed. The care you take when selecting a special vintage or variety, and the commitment to careful cellaring, should culminate in a unique tasting experience. When it’s time to ease out a cork, or crack open a screw cap, the ability to adjust a zone within a cabinet to the optimal serving temperature heightens the quality of the experience. Maximising a bottle’s voice, its story and expressive qualities — and your own enjoyment.”
For those who, like us, take wine seriously, Fisher & Paykel’s wine care appliances are an essential addition to the home. From striking integrated Wine Columns that turn your collection into a beautiful design feature (while providing the best conditions for cellaring every vintage), to the new Under-Bench Wine Cabinets designed to pair perfectly with a full suite of kitchen appliances, Fisher & Paykel’s thoughtful, meticulously designed solutions revolutionise wine care.
Offering an unmatched getaway, with world-class diving, picture-perfect surrounds, fantastic, fresh food and the warmest of welcomes, Wakaya Island Resort is an idyllic Fijian escape.
At Wakaya Island Resort, luxury is not just a promise — it’s a way of life. This exclusive Fijian hideaway blends impeccable service, exquisite accommodations, and bespoke experiences to offer an unforgettable escape. Nestled amid pristine white sand beaches and lush tropical forests, the resort is a stone’s throw from some of the world’s largest and most vibrant coral reefs, offering a true Fijian experience with world-class diving, stunning natural surroundings, and warm hospitality.
The resort’s exquisite accommodations feature nature-inspired designs that highlight the crystal-clear waters and lush landscape. Here, guests are invited to indulge in farm-to-table fare, crafted from the island’s own nutrient-rich volcanic soil — making every meal an authentic celebration of local flavours.
Wakaya Island Resort provides tailored experiences for every guest. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, you’ll find endless options from private hiking excursions to snorkelling, rejuvenating spa treatments and yoga sessions — all curated to inspire discovery and relaxation.
And for those looking to explore the stunning surrounds, this haven is also home to an impressive Marine Protected Area, offering exclusive access to vibrant coral reefs and lush rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife. Guests can discover the island’s rich biodiversity through guided nature walks and immersive cultural experiences.
And given the focus on sustainable luxury, Wakaya Island Resort incorporates eco-friendly practices into every aspect of its operations, so any holiday here also means you are supporting conservation efforts and the local communities.
From unparalleled relaxation to picture-perfect surrounds, exceptional, personalised service, and exclusive experiences, Wakaya Island Resort promises a serene, luxurious retreat in paradise.
Pussy bow blouses, high-waisted flares, sky-high platforms, tailored silhouettes and accents of brown suede — all hallmarks of what is arguably one of the greatest sartorial eras of all time: the 70s. Channel your inner Bianca Jagger (or Jerry Hall), and shop our edit of the boho-inspired pieces that have our attention.
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