Low-key luxury is the ultimate beauty trend for summer — here’s how to achieve simple, subtle perfection

Quiet luxury has found its way into our beauty routines, inspiring us to turn our backs on bold beauty in favour of a ‘no make-up’ make-up look. Here, less really is more, and polished minimalism takes centre stage. Think: fluffy brows, hand-smudged blush, understated pigments, and a glowy base, with a light touch of powder to take the look from day to night. 

GUERLAIN Meteorites Base Primer from Sephora
GUCCI  Poudre de Beauté Powder from Sephora
TOM FORD Eyebrow Laminator from Mecca
Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush from Mecca
Cell Rejuvenating
Priming Moisturizer from Victoria Beckham
DIOR Rouge Blush Sculpt and Glow Palette from Adore Beauty
Espoir Dewlike Jello Glowrizer from Adore Beauty
Yves Saint Laurent Le Cushion Encre De Peau Foundation from Adore Beauty
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops from Mecca
HOURGLASs Unreal Liquid Blush from Mecca
Kylie Skin Lip Oil from Mecca
Anastasia Beverly Hills
Highlighting Duo Pencil from Sephora

Wellbeing

Get your skin summer-ready with our round-up of the smoothing and sculpting treatments and products that actually work
Nail your New Year’s Eve makeup with these easy-to-do party looks
Shark Style Series: Chris Hunter steps us through recreating coverstar Maddison Brown’s effortless textured bun
Our Editor-in-chief, Claire Sullivan-Kraus wearing the Ashoka Infinity Pendant

Partridge Jewellers celebrates 160 years with a stunning collection of one-off high jewellery

As it celebrates its 160th anniversary, Partridge Jewellers stands as an enduring testament to resilience and legacy. From a single Timaru shop in the late 1800s to a national luxury name, Partridge has flourished through family dedication, craftsmanship, and continuous evolution. Marking 160 years of the family-run company, this year has seen a period of rapid evolution — from launching a new flagship store in Wellington and extending their presence in Queenstown with a bold new boutique to welcoming additional family members into the business and launching the Partridge Laureate programme.

The business’s new generational leadership, helmed by Grant Partridge, has expanded the brand’s scope and community impact further. As Partridge enters its sixth generation, its commitment to excellence and heritage — woven through its jewellery, philanthropy, and dynamic team —cements its role as a pioneering force in New Zealand’s luxury landscape.

To mark this significant milestone and enliven this next chapter of Partridge Jewellers, Grant and his team have unveiled the Partridge 160th Collection, born from a series of precious, unheated gemstones and exceptional diamonds. The collection — which marries Partridge designs with pieces from some of their most significant brand partners, comprises an exquisite series of one-of-a-kind jewellery inspired by the New Zealand landscape and Partridge’s multi-generational story. Each piece embodies a truly unique design, telling a story of craft and heritage using the New Zealand landscape as its lens. Here, we look at an edit of the striking pieces.

Our Editor-in-chief, Claire Sullivan-Kraus, wearing the Ashoka Infinity Necklace

The ASHOKA® Infinity Necklace

Arguably, the showstopper in this special collection is The ASHOKA Infinity Necklace for Partridge, which showcases remarkable ASHOKA® diamonds at their absolute finest and embodies the strength and legacy of its namesake emperor. This stunning necklace, crafted in-house by Partridges’ team of experienced jewellers and designers, features 69 ASHOKA® diamonds with a total weight of 39.05ct. The versatile piece transforms seamlessly from a striking necklace to a refined pendant or an elegant ring, highlighting Partridge’s dedication to timeless design that celebrates enduring beauty and power.

The Deep Flora Ring

The Deep Flora Ring

The Deep Flora ring by Partridge captures the essence of Te Uruwera’s ancient forest, the ancestral land of the Tuhoe. Centred around a stunning, no-heat emerald set at a 45-degree angle, this piece features diamond-encrusted ferns, evoking the lush, timeless beauty of New Zealand’s East Cape in a tribute to natural heritage and craftsmanship.

The Ortus Solis Necklace

The Ortus Solis Necklace

The Ortus Solis necklace by Partridge features a radiant topaz centrepiece, capturing the vibrant hues of an East Coast sunrise. Inspired by New Zealand’s unique position as the first to see the sun, this pendant symbolises new beginnings, blending natural beauty and craftsmanship in a tribute to dawn’s breathtaking colours on the horizon.

The Pohutukawa Ring

The Pohutukawa Ring

The Pohutukawa Ring by Partridge captures the spirit of New Zealand’s summer coastlines with a vivid 1.91ct no-heat ruby at its heart. Adorned with rose gold and diamond details echoing the iconic Pohutukawa flower’s unique structure, this ring celebrates natural beauty and enlivens the artistry Partridge is known for.

The Flora Manuka Ring

The Flora Manuka Ring

The Flora Manuka Ring by Partridge captures the elegance of New Zealand’s beloved Manuka flower. At its heart, a 1.0ct white oval diamond is gracefully set, framed by delicate pink and white diamonds that mirror the flower’s soft beauty. Inspired by the golden ratio, this piece embodies harmony and refinement.

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

We sit down with revered sculptor Ray Haydon and his wife Sarah to discuss his creative process, vision, and penchant for collecting chisels

Bending, twisting and contorting mediums including bronze, steel and carbon fibre, Ray Haydon is a master of materials, and one of New Zealand’s most revered sculptors. Creating sinuous, fluid forms, the artist unlocks the kinetic rhythms of air, movement and time. Here, we chat to Ray and his wife Sarah, as they share insight into their unique creative world.

Exclusive Q&A


What does a typical day look like for you?

I go to the workshop every day. I have worked on my own for many years, and when Sarah went out to work full time, there would be days where I didn’t speak to anyone! That all changed when she started to work less hours and mainly from home. For the last few years, we’ve gone out first thing for a coffee and twalk (talking and walking) on the beach. By the time we have done this, shared coffee and lunch together, it doesn’t leave many hours for work. This isn’t the case coming up to an exhibition of course though, when I usually get so involved in what I am doing, I forget about mealtimes completely.

What is your favourite material to work with?

I don’t have one favourite, as I love working with a variety of materials. I work in wood, stainless steel, corten steel, cast steel, carbon fibre and bronze. I’m always trying something new. Generally I can make it work somehow but if there is a better way, I’ll try to find it. I frequently think “I’ve cracked it” and then the next day find out that I haven’t — this tends to inspire me. I drive my suppliers insane asking them questions about paints, glues, products, machines and deflect the constant question that they ask me “what do you want to do with it” by saying “not the usual”. There is almost nothing “usual” about anything that I do. People ask me “how long did it take you to make that” and my answer is “a lifetime of experimentation”.

You’re married to Sarah Haydon, who has worked in finance for many years and was recently awarded a Queen’s Birthday award. How has your wife impacted your work? 

From the day we met, Sarah has been my biggest supporter. She encouraged me to show my sculptures, when I had not been brave enough to show anyone. We’ll never know, but I might not have had the career I’ve had, if I hadn’t met her. Sarah was the initial driving force and is an integral part of my practice. The best thing of all is that she is good at what has always stressed me out — the finance and the logistics — so she does all that allowing me just to focus on making the art. I realise how lucky I am to have Sanderson as my agent, my daughter Francee running my website, and Sarah doing everything else.

Sarah has her own career as a company director and I was so proud of her when she was recently honoured as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for over 25 years volunteer work with Riding for the Disabled.

Ray Haydon (right) with his wife Sarah Haydon

Sarah, what is it like being married to an artist?

In many ways I would think it’s no different from being married to someone who is passionate about what they do, whatever their thing is. Ray chatters away telling me how he is developing some new sculpture or tool; his the latest experiment in stains or oils, or some item he has seen that he cannot live without (how many chisels can a man possibly need?)

He can make or fix anything, so its been excellent being married to someone who will deal to more or-less any issue around the house! I have a secret list of “things for Ray to do” which I can bring to mind at a moment’s notice, if a window of opportunity arises, when I can get him away from his latest artwork or boat project.

Can you tell us a bit about your house and the parts that Ray has worked on?

The house was built about 20 years ago and features wooden posts and beams throughout that came from the old Devonport Wharf. Built into the slope of the land, we are nestled below the prevailing westerly winds with a stunning view of Kawau Island. Completely renovated in our first year here, Ray has added many individual touches including oak handrails, carbon-fibre/iron oxide light shades and bronze door handles. Being a fine woodworker, Ray has made a lot of the furniture — American white oak dining chairs, side tables and mirrors. There is a lot of art in the house — both Ray’s and other New Zealand artists — and his model boats and cannon.

How long have you both lived in Sandspit and had your sculpture garden?

We are lucky enough to have lived in Sandspit for seven years. We are in a large area of native bush overlooking hundreds of mature Kauri trees.

The house renovation and driveway replacement essentially took us back to square one on the gardens surrounding the house, so we had a blank canvas to work with in this part of the landscape. All the garden work has been done by the two of us — hauling tonnes of steel, rock, earth and plants. We’ve built steps, pathways and plinths allowing placement of Ray’s bigger sculptures.

Sanderson has led tours around your sculpture garden in the summer months. What have these been like?

Busy! Supposedly restricted to 30 per tour group, I don’t think there have ever been less than 40 in each, with the last sculpture tour weekend topping out at around 170 visitors over the two days. It was a lot of fun, the weather was great, so people enjoyed the sun, house, garden and sculptures.

After the last tour it took us a while to build up the outdoor collection again and we still have a couple of spots to refresh before next spring when we expect to host the next event. Our biggest problem can be getting the men out of the workshop, they tend to linger in what is a ‘dream man cave’.

Ray, can you tell us a bit about your exhibition that has just opened at Sanderson?

For every exhibition I try to do at least three things…. continue my current main series of work, demonstrate a development in another series, and include a new idea that may develop into a future series.

The main body of work in the exhibition continues my current series of ribbon-like forms in carbon fibre, timber and corten steel. A new development in an existing series is Voyage III — I was keen to try the iron oxide finish in this series — the biggest challenge for this was turning the work constantly while the iron oxide cured on the work. It was worth it though and I think this piece is one of the most successful Voyage pieces that I have made. 

My new idea has been going round in my head for a year or more — pieces in solid timber rather than veneer, and titled ‘Drift’. This series was inspired by an older work of mine that I came across, which I had made about 15 years ago with the same name. The works look like drift wood collected at the beach and have a flow, like waves folding over one another. I’m looking forward to getting feedback on how these are received.

What are some of your career highlights to date?

I love making beautiful things and enjoy seeing the pleasure my artworks bring to other people. As a jeweller and silversmith in the days before mass machine produced products, I excelled at detailed work. I moved into making things for superyachts for some time and really enjoyed that. I never thought I could be a full-time artist but it happened, and I pinch myself sometimes when I realise that is my life now.

We were so excited when Sanderson sold the first piece I sent them — a bronze called ‘Advance’ — in 2005. Then I got the surprise chance to put on my first exhibition in early 2006 — one of their artists couldn’t complete their exhibition work as they had been injured, and I only had two months to get it all ready. Everything sold in the first week, it was amazing, and I never looked back. I transitioned to being a full-time artist as soon as I could.

Tell us one thing we wouldn’t know about you already?

Life has been complicated over the last year by prostate cancer. A chance discussion with my doctor led to detection before it was too late. Surgery and recovery meant I could only do very light work during a four-month period. Some of the smaller pieces in my new exhibition — the Twist series — were made during this time. I’m in the all clear now but wish I had taken more notice of the signs. Men need to take more care of their health!

Check out Ray’s new exhibition at Sanderson here: sanderson.co.nz

And register your interest in the Ray Haydon Sculpture Garden Tour in 2025 here: [email protected]

Culture

From intimate memoirs to propulsive novels, these are the best books to thrown in your beach bag this summer
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
Cover Me in Strawberries Cake
Ginger Bell Rock Roulade
Rosemary’s Gingerbread Cake

Get into the festive spirit at Park Hyatt Auckland — with a new collection of Christmas treats you won’t want to miss

Park Hyatt Auckland is set to dazzle this festive season with its indulgent new Christmas collection, meticulously crafted by the hotel’s esteemed Executive Pastry Chef, Callum Liddicoat and his talented team. This year, an opulent array of delicious delights promises to captivate palates and evoke nostalgic Yuletide memories, making this season’s celebrations a delectable affair for the whole family.

Summer Berry Tart

Chef Callum Liddicoat’s inspiration for the collection stemmed from his most cherished childhood moments. Reflecting on his upbringing, where Christmas was a huge celebration, Liddicoat has recreated the same joy and wonder through the artistry of his culinary creations, dreaming up a collection that is perfect for all of our festive hosting needs.

Left: Merry Berry Trifle. Right: Ginger Bell Rock Roulade

Park Hyatt Auckland’s Christmas collection boasts an assortment of treats brimming with summer berries, tropical fruits, plenty of nuts, chocolate, and spices in the perfect blend of treats for the whole family to enjoy.

Ranging from the return of the ever-popular roulades — this year in both gingerbread iteration and a vanilla and raspberry number, to a new take on trifle, showcasing a mouthwatering array of tropical and seasonal fruits (as well as a more classic mixed berry variation), to a tantalising selection of summer tarts, including Summer Berry and Chocolate and Cherry iterations, each a harmonious blend of seasonal ingredients and luscious creams.

The stunning ‘Cover Me in Strawberries’ cake comprises four layers of gluten-free baked ricotta and raspberry butter cake layered with a whipped vanilla mascarpone cream and raspberry confit. The cake is then covered in the best strawberries from Clevedon Strawberries, making for a perfect festive centrepiece.

There is also a wreath-like gingerbread cake packed full of spices with a sour cream drip icing and hand-made gingerbread stars and fondant snowflakes.

And, for those who adopt the ‘taste a bit of everything’ approach (we’re with you), the Petit Gateaux collection is for you. Featuring four mini Christmas-inspired treats, including a tropical fruit, coconut cream, and rice crispy wreath, a gingerbread, caramel, and burnt vanilla roulade, a hazelnut, cherry and vanilla sponge ‘candle’, and a summer berry and almond ‘Santa’s Hat’, this selection is a true taste of the festive season.

Petit Gâteaux Collection

Park Hyatt are accepting orders from now, with a minimum of 48 hours’ notice required for pick-up. Simply visit hyattpantry.co.nz to secure your festive treats.

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

Currently Coveting: From subtle and sexy to sleek and sophisticated, these are the sheer pieces we’re shopping this party season

The barely there trend has taken on a whole new life the season, pivoting to reflect the world’s current obsession with all things boho chic — with a heavy focus on lace in all of its myriad forms.

Dare to bare it all and ignite the night with these risqué pieces that reveal more than just your décolletage.

RABANNE Long Sleeve Lace Dress from Muse
KIKA VARGAS
Somaly tie-detailed guipure midi dress from net-a-porter
V-NECK BODYTOP from Balenciaga 
CHLOÉ Lace-trimmed embroidered blouse from net-a-porter
Zoë Kravitz in Saint Laurent
Heirlome
Lace-Paneled Plissé Maxi Dress from Moda Operandi
SAINT LAURENT Scalloped lace mini dress from Net-a-porter
DÔEN Nandi Lace Skirt from Muse
VALENTINO GARAVANI Lace shirt from Net-a-Porter
Dakota Johnson in Gucci
VALENTINO GARAVANI Cape-effect Leavers midi dress from Net-a-Porter
Third Form Exclusive Visions Midi Dress from Moda Operandi
EMBROIDERED CROP TOP from Celine
Lace dress from Gucci

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

Eat, drink and be merry this festive season at SkyCity — the ultimate end-of-year destination, no matter the event

With summer fast approaching, festive season plans are front of mind — and the time is nigh to lock in those all-important venues for end-of-year celebrations. In seeking a place that can cater to every kind of occasion, we find ourselves turning to SkyCity and its dazzling array of dining experiences and event-hosting facilities, promising to take any and all festivities to another level.

At the heart of SkyCity’s allure is the selection of premium dining options. Whether it’s for an end of year gathering with friends, or an all-singing, all-dancing office Christmas party, there’s a culinary delight for every proclivity, and space for all. From tantalising Japanese at MASU by Nic Watt, to the refined Pacific flavours of Metita, to contemporary Chinese cuisine at Huami, to the very best steak and seafood at newly-reopened, iconic eatery The Grill, and more, every restaurant promises an exquisite journey for the taste buds and a spectacular setting for a festive affair.

And, if you’re yet to settle on plans for Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve, SkyCity has you covered on all fronts, with all of the precinct’s exceptional dining destinations open for business for both occasions, and taking bookings now.

Here, we round up what is on offer at SkyCity this festive season, and why it really is the ultimate end-of-year destination, no matter what kind of event you’re planning.

Private Dining & Events


If it’s an intimate dinner you’re seeking, look no further than the selection of refined private dining rooms across SkyCity’s impressive venues. From Metita’s beautifully appointed space, in which you can enjoy Chef Michael Meredith’s exquisite, Pacific cuisine, to Cassia’s chic, contemporary hideaway, to MASU by Nic Watt’s renowned private room, in which you can partake in the restaurant’s award-winning Japanese fare, to newly-reopened The Grill’s sumptuous private room, to Huami and SkyBar; the former offering a sprawling private room that can either seat 24 or be divided to accommodate two parties of 12, the latter, providing an elegant and elevated space in the Sky Tower that boasts breathtaking views over Auckland.

Beyond private dining, if you want to look into exclusive venue hire, SkyCity has plenty of options for that too. SkyCity’s iconic Sky Tower (one of our country’s most recognisable landmarks, with breathtaking views 220 metres high) is also available for private events. Whether you’re planning a morning corporate reception, drinks and nibbles, or a private party 186 metres above Auckland. Of course, if you are interested in hiring out any of SkyCity’s exceptional restaurants exclusively, simply reach out to the team here with your requirements.

See SkyCity’s private dining options here, and its venue hire options here.

Private Dining at SkyCity
The Grill

Celebrate the festive season at much-beloved, newly-reopened Auckland institution The Grill, housed in Auckland’s newest 5-star hotel — Horizon by SkyCity. The brand-new location, with a spacious outdoor courtyard, is the must-visit destination for those looking to celebrate the festive season and indulge in the best of New Zealand beef, lamb, and seafood, cooked to perfection over the Montague grill. The Grill celebrates Aotearoa’s culinary treasures, sourcing locally from artisans, fishermen, and farming families, who are dedicated to quality. Expect the finest grass-fed steaks, from 100% New Zealand owned and operated suppliers, and sustainable, line-caught fish, as well as an exceptional edit of wine showcasing New Zealand’s top vineyards.

The Grill’s brand new private dining space, ideal for gatherings of between six and 12 guests, offers a sophisticated yet inviting spot to wine and dine, with bespoke set menus, an striking cellar, and a private bathroom further adding to the exclusive experience.

Book here.

Private Dining at SkyCity
Metita

Quickly solidifying itself as a more than perfect spot for convivial meals and elevated gatherings alike, Michael Meredith’s Metita has become known for its exceptional hospitality, and nowhere is this more evident than in the eatery’s Private Dining Room — the perfect backdrop for an intimate get-together. Here, diners will find a fresh exploration of Pacific cuisine, with a menu that celebrates Meredith’s heritage and offers a unique take on traditional Pacific flavours and dishes.

Metita was designed as a place of discovery and connection, and as such, offers SkyCity’s largest group dining space, suitable for between eight and 24 guests — perfect for hosting an intimate formal meal, or a more celebratory evening with friends, family, or colleagues. The award winning space is enveloped in dark wooden panels, with an enclosed cellar housing an incredible collection of fine wines lining one wall and a striking, Pasifika-inspired artwork by Amanda Stowers of Masina Creative adorning another.

Or, if you’re looking to celebrate with a smaller group, experience the multi-award-winning interior design by CTRL Space in Metita’s main dining room, where you’ll have front-row seats to the action unfolding in the kitchen.

Book here.

Private Dining at SkyCity
Cassia

At Cassia, modern Indian flavours abound, in a contemporary, intimate, and chic eatery — within which you’ll find Cassia’s private dining room, suitable for between eight and 22 guests. Whether casual or corporate, Cassia offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere to make any occasion truly memorable. The menu, which is designed to share, is rich in flavour and diverse textures and tastes, encapsulating renowned Chef Sid Sahrawat’s signature modern Indian flare. 

For larger groups of up to 40 guests, the mezzanine area is the perfect location for a group. For all bookings for groups of 13 or more, Cassia offers a selection of set menus that can be tailored to suit your group’s requirements. 

If you’re looking for a larger space, Cassia’s mezzanine level accommodates between 23 to 40 guests. Enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is completely separated from the rest of the restaurant, with the option to select a set menu that can be tailored to suit your group’s bespoke requirements. 

Book here.

Private Dining at SkyCity
Masu by Nic Watt

Indulge in a culinary journey that marries traditional Japanese flavours with contemporary innovation at MASU by Nic Watt. With set menus perfect for group dining, that feature the finest in fresh sashimi, seafood, meat and vegetables straight off the Robata grill, as well as a selection of maki rolls, here, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re planning a larger celebration with family, friends, or colleagues this festive season, enjoy MASU’s inviting and stylish ambiance in the Obi Room. Accommodating up to 18 guests, The Obi Room is a striking, semi-private space anchored by a solid wood table crafted from two pieces of suar hardwood and earthen walls decorated with spectacular vintage Japanese obi kimono prints. The Obi Room is framed by bubble glass which creates the impression of privacy and seclusion without being completely separated from the main dining area.

Or experience MASU’s Chef Kotastu Table, accommodating up to 12 guests, another semi-private area set at the back of the main dining room and backdropped by the restaurant’s single piece of art, a large Japanese Dragon created by calligraphy master artist Ushio Sekiguchi.

Book here.

Private Dining at SkyCity
Huami

Huami invites guests to immerse themselves in the vibrancy of China, with an exquisite menu showcasing dishes from regional provinces including Canton, Sichuan, Huaiyang and Beijing.

With a number of private rooms to choose from, Huami is the perfect spot for either an intimate family gathering, or corporate cocktail function — and everything in between. The Chinese restaurant, which boasts traditional cuisine with a modern twist, has three elegant private dining rooms. Rooms one and two seat 12 guests each and are adjoining, but can be divided. Room three caters up to six guests.

Or, for larger groups, Huami’s Perrier Jouet outdoor garden accommodates up to 40, and is the ideal spot for summer events or casual alfresco dining.

Book here.

Private Dining at SkyCity
SkyBar

New Zealand’s highest champagne lounge, SkyBar, can always be relied on for convivial experiences, set against striking, panoramic views of Auckland’s skyline.

For daytime celebrations this festive season, SkyBar’s Sky Tea is a must — with guests invited to indulge in 10 delectable bites featuring five savouries and five desserts by the award winning team at SUCRÉ by SkyCity, along with hot and cold drinks. For an extra touch of luxury, upgrade your experience to include a glass of Moët and Chandon Champagne or Tāmaki Tea cocktail. It’s the perfect way to celebrate of end of 2024 with friends or family.  

Or, if you’re in search of an impressive event venue with a view, this is the spot. Tailor the space to match your needs, pick from the array of platter options, and trust the team to execute and bring your dream event to life.

Book here.

skycityauckland.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

The most Consistently Reliable Restaurants in Auckland, as voted by you

Once again, we summoned the denizens of Auckland to show our collective respect in recognising the efforts of those who make our day-to-day lives a little easier. It gives us great pleasure to share the most publicly admired businesses in the community. Congratulations to our 2024 Everyday Heroes. 

Consistently Reliable Restaurants


Survival of the fittest has been the name of the hospitality game this year. It comes as no surprise that Viaduct Harbour stalwart Soul Bar & Bistro took out the top spot in this competitive category. If there’s one place we can always rely upon for fantastic hospitality, sensational food, and a rousing good time, it’s Soul. Coming in at an incredibly close second place is everybody’s favourite all-day and night Italian eatery, Amano, which continues to serve consistently delicious pasta and Italian cuisine after eight solid years of operation. While back in Viaduct Harbour, Asian-fusion eatery Hello Beasty has become a favourite of many. Small in size but mighty on flavour, there’s a reason it’s hard to snag a table here without a reservation.

Soul Bar & Bistro, Viaduct Harbour
Amano, Britomart
Hello Beasty, Viaduct Harbour

The Rest of the Best


Andiamo
Herne Bay

Here, the clever and friendly team and ever-changing menu satisfies even the most frequent of diners, making Andiamo an undeniable community favourite.

Azabu
Ponsonby/Misson Bay

Everyone’s favourite Japanese eatery, Azabu, continues to draw the crowds for its delicious and consistent take on Peruvian-inspired Japanese classics. 

The Blue Breeze Inn
Ponsonby

After 12 solid years of serving fantastic steamed pork buns and soup dumplings, Mark Wallbank’s Blue Breeze Inn continues its reign of Ponsonby Central. 

Ragtag
Westmere

A relative newcomer that’s small in stature, but bold in flavour, Ragtag has justified its high ranking amongst some of Auckland’s most iconic eateries. 

Duo
Birkenhead

Solidifying their status as the go-to in Birkenhead, Duo has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of discerning diners in the local neighbourhood, in a big way.

Everyday Heroes

The Best New Openings in Auckland, as voted by you
Everyday Heroes 2024. Show your support for 400 local businesses, and be in to win!

10 face sunscreens that deserve a place in your beach bag this summer

Summer is almost upon us and thus begins the tedious process of sunscreen selection (those who really carry out the precaution throughout the dead of winter are, admit it, few and far between). This year, instead of coating your face in a substance that resembles PVA glue or slathering it in a greasy, sticky formula — add one of these mighty formulations to your arsenal. Trust us, you will never look back.

Supernatural SPF50+ Ceramide Silk Facial Sunscreen from Antipodes
MZ SKIN Expert UV Protector SPF50 from net-a-porter
NOBLE PANACEA The Energist Multi-Defence Cream SPF 50 from net-a-porter
SPF 50+ Face Mist from Outside Beauty & Skincare
Go-To Nifty Fifty SPF50 from Mecca
Ultra-lightweight daily skin protector from Raaie
Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF50+ from Adore Beauty
Alpha-H
Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF 50+ with Vitamin E from Mecca
DR. BARBARA STURM+ NET SUSTAIN Sun Drops SPF30 from net-a-porter
Protective Facial Lotion SPF50 from Aesop

Wellbeing

Get your skin summer-ready with our round-up of the smoothing and sculpting treatments and products that actually work
Nail your New Year’s Eve makeup with these easy-to-do party looks
Shark Style Series: Chris Hunter steps us through recreating coverstar Maddison Brown’s effortless textured bun

The Best New Openings in Auckland, as voted by you

Once again, we summoned the denizens of Auckland to show our collective respect in recognising the efforts of those who make our day-to-day lives a little easier. It gives us great pleasure to share the most publicly admired businesses in the community. Congratulations to our 2024 Everyday Heroes. 

Best New Openings


Up against what has been further challenging economic times, despite the odds, this year has still seen some exceptional new openings. Gareth Stewart’s Middle Eastern-inspired eatery, Advieh in Commercial Bay, was the resounding winner, and for good reason. After a 30-year culinary career, Stewart is playing his finest tune yet. Advieh honours the flavour-filled nuances of Middle Eastern cuisine and enhances them further by employing locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to magical effect. While in Ellerslie, Hayden Phiskie (co-founder of Cotto and Ada) opened Bianca with a menu that dances with the seasons, as Phiskie builds dishes with vibrant, in-season ingredients, ensuring a constantly changing and delicious meal every visit. Parnell’s new addition Rhu, has evolved from just a daytime eatery to offer an exceptional evening service where the entire menu feels exciting. Here, seasonal and intriguing ingredients combine for a creative and immersive dining experience.

Advieh, Commercial Bay
Bianca, Ellerslie
Rhu, Parnell

The Rest of the Best


Metita, SkyCity
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Showcasing seafood in all of its flavourful glory — meet The Fishmarket Grill

At The Fishmarket Grill by Sanford, the concept is simple: bring fresh, high-quality fish directly from the fishmonger to the grill, with a focus on creating a memorable dining experience. As such, the menu is a celebration of all things seafood, with plenty of variety to tempt every taste — showcasing the true variety of Sanford’s local catch.

Sanford is New Zealand’s oldest fishing company, delivering the freshest, best quality catch to people locally and globally for 160 years. Situated in the historic Auckland Fish Market in Wynyard Quarter since 1923, their mission has always been to bring the ocean’s bounty to more people, and The Fishmarket Grill is a further extension of this ethos, offering premium seafood at accessible prices in a casual environment that invites exploration.

Here, hungry punters can (unsurprisingly) find fresh fish grilled to perfection, whether it’s seared in fragrant garlic butter or cooked over the roaring flames — a display customers can witness via the grill window. The star of the show is The Fishmarket Grill’s take on ‘steak and chips’, with a variety of grilled fish steaks to enjoy alongside caper-salted fries and a side of seasonal salad.

There are also plenty of tasty small plates on the menu, all of which are brimming with flavour. From smoked fish pâté topped with crunchy pickles and served with freshly grilled sourdough to vibrant fish crudo with a creamy coconut sauce and crispy curry leaves, to the utterly indulgent grilled scampi with chilli garlic butter — a must try. There are a few more inventive options, from flavourful off-cuts like salmon bellies to more unique species like Toothfish and Orange Roughy.

You can also opt to simply browse the day’s catch at the fish monger, and select a fillet or whole fish which the team will drop straight onto the grill (for a modest additional cost). Add a side of caper salted chips and seasonal salad for $5, and you’ve got yourself a cost-effective, healthy, and entirely delicious feast.

Auckland Fish Market’s bar, The Wreck, is located just steps away from The Fishmarket Grill in the courtyard, offering a perfect place to kick back with a plate of fresh seafood and an ice-cold drink.

The vibe at the Auckland fish market is always buzzing with energy — whether you’re a local or a tourist, it’s the ultimate seafood destination in the city. The atmosphere is relaxed yet lively, with something for everyone, and, with live music every weekend from 1 — 4pm, plus school holiday entertainment, it’s a perfect spot for families, friends, or even a solo seafood date. The Fishmarket Grill only adds to the locale’s allure, and presents a perfect opportunity to explore the local bounty — discovering new flavours along the way.

Opening hours:
Wednesday — Sunday, 12pm until 3pm

afm.co.nz

The Fishmarket Grill

22 Jellicoe St
Wynyard Quarter
Auckland

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