Smooth, spicy, and a little complex — that’s surely how people describe me. Ironically, it’s also the perfect description for the classic American cocktail, the Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned.
We all have our drink of choice, and for me, that drink is an Old Fashioned. As a lover of all things of the whisky and bourbon persuasion, an Old Fashioned is the perfect libation to end the day, or kick off the night.
Given the nature of this arguably simple drink (with typically just three ingredients) the choice of whisky or bourbon to construct the perfect cocktail is paramount. My personal choice is always Woodford Reserve. The sultry, amber-hued bourbon is rich and silky, with all of that toffee sweetness bourbon is so famous for but also with a level of refined complexity enhanced with gentle notes of cinnamon and spice, resulting in what is the perfect Old Fashioned.
For those unfamiliar with the classic Old Fashioned, Woodford Reserve presents the annual Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned Month celebration. Across the month of November, expect a plethora of iconic bars and restaurants Woodford Reserve’s complex and sophisticated flavours taking this favourite cocktail to new heights. Having started in Paris, France in 2015, Old Fashioned Week is now a global event.
Here in New Zealand, as part of this year’s Old Fashioned Month, Woodford Reserve has partnered with a series of bars throughout the country with mixologists at each location invited to create their own signature iteration of this famed libation.
Below you’ll find our edit of the finest bars and restaurants to savour a Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned.
art direction — Amber Armitage/ Marigold Photography — Wendy Fenwick/ Flash Studios
Adding depth, contrast, and an unexpected hint of warmth to our interiors, deep, rich, chocolate brown hues are dominating the colour sphere this year — offering a novel take on neutral that’s anything but ordinary.
Walls painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Rebel
The versatility of this particular shade allows for endless possibilities, and, as always, it’s to the experts at Resene that we turn for advice and inspiration. Here, the colour professionals suggest pairing opulent cocoa tones like Yogi and Scoria with plush furnishings and textiles to create a sophisticated scene, bringing an elevated ambience into living spaces.
Walls painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Rebel. Floor in Resene Walk-on tinted to Resene Tua Tua
Or, if it’s a more contemporary and pared-back vibe you’re looking to cultivate, look to the dark chocolate shades of Sambuca and Chocolate Brownie, perfectly complemented by earthy accents such as wood and stone to create a cosy, organic feel.
The office wall is painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Yogi. Floor in Resene Walk-on tinted to Resene Tua Tua
And while chocolate browns can be used to striking effect in lounges and dining spaces, the deep tones are particularly perfect for giving bedrooms a comforting, intimate edge.
With some of Auckland’s biggest race days back in full force this summer, from the Barfoot & Thompson Twilight Summer Night and SkyCity Christmas Carnival in December, to the TAB Karaka Millions in January, and Champions Day featuring The Ned Prix de Fashion in March, this racing season is set to be one of the best yet. And, given that this year marks 20 years of Prix de Fashion, going all out is not only acceptable, but encouraged.
But, while the races are ultimately an opportunity for a fun and fashionable day out, there is a certain protocol associated with these elevated events that should be adhered to at all times. Don’t fret if you’ve forgotten — those that need a refresher course on the race day rules of engagement can consult our handy guide below.
Race Day Etiquette
10 Rules of Engagement
01. Dress the Part (or Risk a Fashion Faux Pas)
While the events themselves don’t have a strict dress code, within the hospitality precincts, effort is encouraged, so go all out — or risk being judged.
02. Mind Your Wins (and Your Wallet)
Bragging about your winnings? A massive no-no. Discretion is a lady’s (or gentleman’s) best friend — along with a carefully curated betting budget. No one likes a boastful bettor.
03. Keep Your Cool
Rubbing shoulders with society’s finest? Whether you’re a seat away from a well-known figure, or just some very well-dressed strangers, don’t let the champagne do the talking. This is not your moment to regale the who’s who with tales of last night’s escapades.
04. Sip, Don’t Guzzle
Yes, the champagne is tempting, but no one looks classy stumbling across the lawn before the first race. Slow and steady wins this race, too.
05. Arrive Early, Breakfast Well
A solid breakfast isn’t just wise — it’s essential. Think a full English, because, while there is plenty on offer at the events, it’s a long day and drinking begins early (and no one likes a hangry, or boozy, punter).
06. Compliment Wisely
Guys: Compliment her fascinator (that strange bird-like headpiece). Ladies: Applaud his betting prowess. Either way, charm is as important as luck.
07. Cheer (with Style)
A winner? Fantastic! Go ahead and cheer — but keep it classy. Screaming like a banshee might grab attention, but not the kind you’re seeking.
08. Keep Your Betting in Check
Stick to the cash you brought — credit cards and racing don’t mix. There’s a fine line between fun and financial ruin.
09. Beware the Shoes
Ladies, if you haven’t broken them in, don’t even think about wearing those new heels. Blisters and bare feet by midday is far from chic. Ballet flats in the bag are your best bet.
10. Plan Your Escape
Pre-book that taxi, Uber, or minibus. Trust us, wrestling with thousands of fellow punters for a ride home is not how you want to end the day.
When & Where: From 3pm on December 12th, Ellerslie Racecourse
After a four-year break, Ellerslie’s electric evening races are back. Known for its buzzing crowd and top-tier people watching from the hospitality precincts, with six thrilling back-to-back races, this season starter is a must-attend event.
The fashionable amongst us will have the chance to be recognised for their efforts, with a style spotter award determined by roaming judges (no runway necessary), and those partial to a party will find it post-races, as the evening heats up with the renowned Birdcage Bash, featuring Sweet Mix Kids.
Glamorous and action-packed, it’s a raceday like no other— perfect for those looking to welcome the season in fitting fashion.
When & Where: Running across Boxing Day and New Year’s Day from 11am, Ellerslie Racecourse
Boxing Day Races featuring Fashions in the Field
While Christmas Day is for family, Boxing Day is for friends, and there’s no better way to mark the silly season than at Ellerslie’s iconic SkyCity Boxing DayRaces. After a few years on pause, this beloved event is making its much-anticipated return and it’s time to get it back on the calendar. With its signature carnival atmosphere, Ellerslie transforms into a vibrant sea of colour and energy as racegoers celebrate the end of another long year. Whether you’re looking to kick back and soak up the vibes, or wholly embrace the party, this is the place to be.
The Paddock in association with The Grand Tour is set to be the go-to spot for under-30s on Boxing Day, with all-day beats from the likes of Beccie B and Bon Tempo keeping the party live. Meanwhile, satorialists will have their time in the spotlight at the ever-popular Fashions in the Field. Even if you’re not entering for the sash or the prize pool, it’s a prime opportunity to up the ante on your outfit and snap some enviable shots.
Families, who enjoy free admission for under 15s, will find a day of delight, as a dedicated space is transformed into a children’s paradise, with games, entertainment, a bouncy castle, and tasty food.
Whether casual or glamorous, Ellerslie is the perfect Boxing Day destination.
New Year’s Day Races
Kick off 2025 with the return of the iconic SkyCity New Year’s Day Races at Ellerslie. New Year’s Day at Ellerslie is always a thrilling affair, with acres of lush green spaces offering a perfect spot to unwind — whether you’re shaking off the night before, or just looking to relax while the kids enjoy the free entertainment.
At this event, the vibe is easy-going yet convivial, perfectly suiting the day and thrill of the racing action. Speaking of racing, the SkyCity Christmas Carnival promises a stellar lineup of top tier racing events — 10, in total. The roar of the grandstand is infectious, and there’s nothing quite like the rush when a new winner crosses the finish line.
Known as a highlight of Auckland’s holiday calendar, this event offers top-tier racing, family fun, and exceptional hospitality for those looking to elevate their New Year’s celebration.
When & Where: From 3pm on January 25th, Ellerslie Racecourse
The sell-out TAB Karaka Millions is back, blending high-stakes racing with unrivalled glamour, and with millions in prize money up for grabs, it’s New Zealand’s richest night of sport. Last year’s hospitality sold out in days, and it’s easy to see why. The evening boasts three $1M+ races, attracting the elite of the racing world and Auckland’s social set.
From thrilling races to stylish celebrations — with an epic style spotter prize up for grabs, it’s a night not to be missed. And, after the horses have had their moment, the real party begins. The epic afterparty, hosted by The Grand Tour and featuring crowd favourites Sweet Mix Kids, is one for the books. Tickets are disappearing fast — secure yours now.
When & Where: From 11.30am on March 8th, Ellerslie Racecourse
Featuring the $3.5M NZB Kiwi and The Ned Prix de Fashion, the inaugural Champions Day is set to be a standout in New Zealand’s racing calendar. This brand-new spectacle introduces a game-changer for New Zealand thoroughbred racing: the sport’s first-ever slot race, the NZB Kiwi, with a jaw-dropping $3.5 million in stakes on offer.
But the NZB Kiwi is just the beginning. The day also boasts a stellar lineup of top-tier races, including the time-honoured Trackside New Zealand Derby and the Barfoot & Thompson Auckland Cup.It’s an event that’s set to attract international attention, fast tracking its way onto the must-attend list of racing enthusiasts and social butterflies alike.
But it’s not just about the thrilling, high-stakes races ‚ the event also plays host to the prestigious The Ned Prix de Fashion — the national final of New Zealand’s fashions in the field competitions. This is where the country’s most stylish racegoers compete for the ultimate title — New Zealand’s answer to the Melbourne Cup’s most stylish fashion moments.
With unmissable racing, premium hospitality, free children’s entertainment, and an epic afterparty, Champions Day promises a racing experience like no other.
When it comes to Tokyo, this is not my first rodeo, though it is the first time I am visiting under the guise of a corporate wife (my husband conducts business here regularly), and with my children in tow.
While this may seem an ideal situation for many, I quickly realised the error of my ways. Tokyo, by its very nature, is a reluctant host to outsiders, particularly women with young children. While I was initially out of my depth having to make my own arrangements for transportation and restaurant reservations (I’ve become very used to being hosted by luxury brands), I was soon put at ease by the fact that we were staying at the new Bulgari Hotel, so there was really no need to leave.
BULGARI HOTEL TOKYO
An Italian hotel in the heart of Tokyo might seem like we’re missing the point of coming to Japan altogether, however, I can assure you, after my many visits to the country, the Japanese’s love for Italian culture means that you really do the get the best of both worlds.
Tokyo, a city of dazzling neon and frenetic energy, can be a whirlwind for the uninitiated. This trip, however, took an unexpected turn for the luxurious thanks to the Bulgari Hotel Tokyo. The hotel masterfully blends Italian elegance with Japanese touches, creating a haven of sophisticated comfort. Imagine a heartfelt ‘arigato gozaimasu’ alongside a gracious ‘grazie mille’ — both perfectly acceptable responses to impeccable service.
40TH FLOOR
Located in the heart of Tokyo’s Yaesu district, the hotel is prime real estate. Nestled conveniently close to the upscale Ginza shopping district and the business-centric Nihombashi, it offers easy access to everything the city has to offer.
Each morning, breakfast was a global celebration. We could embark on a culinary adventure, choosing from Japanese, Chinese, European, or American menus. Pancakes and eggs benedict one day, a traditional Japanese breakfast the next — Bulgari catered to every craving and took us on a gastronomic tour of each country in the process.
IL RISTORANTE NIKO ROMITO
While my husband tackled the Tokyo work scene, the children and I found solace in the expansive spa. Accessible via a private elevator directly from our hallway, it offered a haven of tranquillity. Stepping into the 15,000-square-foot spa felt like entering a luxurious world far above the frenetic city. Here, the true showstopper was the pool. Located on the 40th floor, it offers impressive city views and unparalleled beauty. The mosaic tile and Venetian glass of the pool shimmered in a mesmerising emerald hue, a Bulgari creation designed to “mimic the light of an emerald.” Swimming here felt like gliding above a bed of sparkling diamonds — a truly unique experience.
The vitality pool, a hot tub adorned with a curved mosaic mural, offered another captivating visual treat. The fan motif, a recurring theme throughout the hotel, echoed the Tokyo seal and Bulgari’s “Divas’ Dream” collection, further blurring the lines between Italian heritage and Japanese artistry.
VITALITY POOL
Our room, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, boasted a breathtaking panorama. The children were mesmerised by the bullet trains zipping in and out of Tokyo Station below. Inside, the room was a haven of sophisticated comfort, with furniture designed by the Italian design legend, Antonio Citterio.
BULGARI SUITE
Every detail whispered of the harmonious fusion between east and west. The western outdoor terrace boasts lemon trees, a nod to Italy, while the eastern terrace flourishes with yuzu orange trees, a taste of Japan. Even the minibar offers a duality of cultures with Italian and Japanese beers.
Evenings were spent at the Bulgari Bar on the 45th floor. Lush, mosaic tiles depicting an urban garden formed a breathtaking backdrop to the bar inside. Out on the expansive decks, we sunk into plush sofas, enjoying delectable Italian comfort food while witnessing the glorious Tokyo sunset (a sight every bit as stunning as the city’s famed sunrise). On a clear day, Mount Fuji even graced us with its majestic presence.
THE BULGARI BAR
Our week at the Bulgari Tokyo was an utterly indulgent experience. It wasn’t just the impeccable hospitality, the immaculate surroundings, or the unforgettable views; it was the feeling of being cocooned in a luxurious haven that perfectly captured the essence of both Italy and Japan. We left with a treasure trove of memories and a new-found appreciation for Tokyo’s unexpected charms.
“The idea of Bricks comes from taking an object that is mundane, and using it to build something special,” the Bricks team tells me of their new coffee bar in the heart of Takapuna, adding, “We want everyone to feel at home. Whether you’re staying a while or just grabbing a coffee to go, the experience at Bricks is always personal and unhurried.”
As you’d expect, the central offering is coffee, promising the perfect pick-me-ups, “The focus is on high quality coffee,” the team tells me, “We’ve carefully sourced our beans to offer a range of flavours — from bold espresso to bright filter, with teas and seasonal drinks in the mix too.”
On the food front, you’ll find a cabinet brimming with handmade Korean-inspired baking. The menu is simple, but delicious, with a number of intriguing pastries, buns (the melon iteration is a must-try), and snacks that pair perfectly with the coffee on offer.
The team behind Bricks worked with local Korean-Kiwi designer Young Do to create a clean, simple space that is both sleek and pared-back, and warm and inviting — the perfect spot to park up for a morning brew. “The idea was to make it feel as open and comfortable as possible, with a focus on coffee and community,” says the team.
Despite the simplicity of its concept, Bricks has been executed with purpose and finesse, and the vibe, coffee, and fare reflect this wholly.
When it comes to skin protection and anti-ageing, SPF is the single most important step. And, with summer firmly on the horizon, now is as valuable time as any to reflect on the virtues of sun protection and find the perfect sunscreen to keep you shielded — regardless of whether you love to soak up the summer rays or prefer to remain safely in the shade. To steer you in the right direction, we’ve uncovered a natural yet efficacious new SPF that suits every and any skin type.
Setting a new benchmark for facial sunscreens, Antipodes’ new Supernatural SFP50+ Ceramide Silk Sunscreen is 100% natural origin SPF that shields skin whilst guarding against premature ageing — all while offering a glowy, luminous complexion.
Antipodes Glow Pack
The next generation zinc oxide sunscreen has undergone rigorous testing, coming up trumps as both an efficacious broad spectrum protectant, and an ultra hydrator. Delivering a luminous finish with no white cast, the innovative formula sits beautifully under makeup, and naturally fosters and even skin tone.
Harnessing the potent power of anti-ageing ceramides and nourishing plant oils, this multi-functional formula helps protect the delicate skin barrier and smooth the skin in tandem, offering a natural skin saviour we can’t get enough of.
shop the Brightening range
Glory Vitamin C Triple-Action Glow Toner from Antipodes
Forever the fashion favourite, denim is the wardrobe gift that keeps on giving, this season finding its way onto bags, blazers, bell bottoms, and everything in-between.
When it comes to keeping our homes spick and span, anything that simplifies cleaning is a win — and Shark’s Cordless Detect Pro With Auto Empty System much fits the bill. With four ultra-intelligent deep cleaning technologies that detect and react to a variety of household messes, this clever vacuum optimises cleaning based on surface type and illuminates hidden debris, automatically boosting power on hidden dirt, and increasing suction on edges and corners.
The handy Auto-Empty System charges and empties your vacuum and keeps the unit smelling fresh thanks to its Odour Neutraliser technology, which, when combined with all of the appliance’s innovative technology, delivers an overall better, quicker, and simpler clean.
As much as we love the comfort of the tried-and-true, its always exciting when one of our favourite eateries changes up its menu. Soul Bar & Bistro’s new menu additions offer plenty to enjoy during long, leisurely lunches and convivial dinners as the weather warms, traversing a gamut of tastes from light and refreshing to comforting and hearty.
We’ve already identified our favourites, which we’re selflessly sharing to inspire your next visit.
Prosciutto with Torn Burrata
A perfect place to start, this delightfully vibrant dish pairs ribbons of prosciutto with creamy burrata, fresh tomato, basil, and a flavourful pineapple mostarda in a dish that exemplifies spring.
Spring Pea Risotto
The simple presentation of this dish belies a thoughtful melange of delicious, fresh flavours. A perfectly al dente pea risotto is paired with crisp sugar snaps and creamy sheep labneh, given further depth through the addition of craggy range pecorino.
Spinach & Mascarpone Tortelli
This classic Italian dish is soothing and savoury, comprising handmade spinach and mascarpone-stuffed tortelli paired with new season asparagus, brown butter, and a tasty ricotta salata.
Prawn & Saffron Casarecce
Served with tomato, fennel, olive, and lemon, this satiating pasta dish is a delight, packed with loads of flavour and best enjoyed alongside a crisp, ice-cold glass of champagne.
Market fish with Pea Vichyssoise
Last, but certainly not least, a stand-out dish this spring is Soul’s latest riff on market fish. Here, the freshest catch is paired perfectly with pea vichyssoise — a delicious chilled green soup, vibrant white balsamic, and a radish and rocket salad.
Poliform’s Shape Kitchen combines considered functionality with a sleek, ultra-contemporary aesthetic, offering a modern riff on a traditional kitchen that has been enhanced with elements and accessories designed to improve the user’s everyday experience.
From a fully equipped, cantilevered sink within the worktop, to the chic, slim-profile range hood with a luminous extractor unit, to the integrated breakfast bar, here, every little detail is considered — resulting in a modern masterpiece that will slot seamlessly into any design-led home.
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