The end of the year is nigh, so alongside planning your various New Year’s Eve celebrations (or preparing to attend one of the epic parties happening around Auckland) it’s time to start thinking about your look. Outfits aside, New Year’s Eve offers the perfect opportunity to try out something new on the beauty front, whether it’s a bold eye, a standout lip or colours you wouldn’t usually dare to wear on a normal night out. It is an evening of celebration, after all.
Here are five easy-to-do makeup looks that will have you turning heads this New Year’s Eve.
Make it Metallic
Giving classic New Year’s Eve glamour a decidedly futuristic edge, this beauty trend is all about making the eyes stand out and embracing a sleek, metallic look.
Give yourself the ultimate glow with a good dose of glitter. Best when applied liberally to the eyes or cheeks, this sparkly trend is sure to turn heads.
Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner from Mecca
Trade the classic, demure cat-eye for this bold iteration and command attention at any party. When trying this look at home, don’t be afraid of using a heavy hand. The trick here is a thick, dark line, extended beyond the bounds of your natural eyes to make them look dark and mysterious.
Gucci Beauty Stylo Définition L’Obscur Eyeliner from AdoreBeauty
Napoleon Perdis Sketch Pot Gel Eyeliner from AdoreBeauty
BENEFIT COSMETICS Roller Lash Mascara from Sephora
Huda Beauty Life-Liner Duo Pencil & Liquid Eyeliner from Sephora
Heavenly Holographic
Another futuristic beauty trend, holographic hype is transforming our makeup from minimalist matte to light-reflecting radiance with the flick of a brush. Designed to give your eyes an ethereal pop, this trend is for those who want to stand out in a more subtle (but no less effective) way.
Half Magic Glitterpuck Multi-Use Pressed Fairy Dust from Mecca
MECCA MAX Show-Topper Holographic Eyeshadow Toppers from Mecca
Rituel de Fille Celestial Sphere Gelée Eye Gloss from Mecca
Cherry Lips
To enter the new year with a polished, pronounced pout, perfect your base (hydration, hydration, hydration), followed by a deep, dark, vibrant cherry red — finishing with a gloss for shine, if you’re that way inclined.
The holidays offer up the best opportunity to tick all the books off our list that we didn’t quite get to in 2024. Whether you plan on hitting the beach or curling up in a shady spot, these are some of the best books to have on hand this summer, from poignant memoirs to thought-provoking novels and everything in between.
A sharp, witty exploration of modern relationships. As Celine and Luke plan their wedding, their friends grapple with love, jealousy, and life’s expectations. The Happy Couple is full of biting humour and keen observations, as Dolan examines whether happiness truly lies at the end of the aisle, or if the journey there reveals deeper truths.
Ali Smith’s Gliff explores a near-future dystopia where two children confront a world of shifting boundaries. A mysterious red line around their home and a horse symbolise resistance in a fractured society, as, with Smith’s unique insight into human complexity, Gliff sets the stage for its upcoming counterpart — Glyph. A powerful, thought-provoking read.
In the fifth instalment of the Before the Coffee Gets Cold series, four new visitors enter the time-travelling café, each seeking closure from their past. Masterfully woven, Kawaguchi’s heartwarming tale explores love, regret, and healing, offering a tender reflection on moving forward despite life’s missed moments.
Richard Powers’ latest novel intertwines the lives of four individuals who converge on a remote island in French Polynesia. As an audacious plan to build floating cities unfolds, Powers weaves a rich tapestry of environmental themes, human connection, and the complexities of tech, set against the majestic backdrop of the Pacific.
Through nuanced dialogue and keen observation, Ella Baxter’s surreal, pyrotechnic novel Woo Woo takes an unsettling dive into the mind of Sabine, a conceptual artist facing both a career-defining exhibition and a menacing stalker. With dark humour, sharp wit, and visceral intensity, Woo Woo captures the chaos of creativity and the madness of modern life.
As a young man embarks on a journey to find his vanished girlfriend, he’s led to a mysterious dream library. As reality and fantasy blur, he faces profound questions about love, memory, and loss. Haruki Murakami’s long-awaited novel is parable for these strange times — brimming with magical realism, and offering an ode to escapism.
Secrets unravel and tensions mount in this darkly comedic novel, as the murder of a wealthy patriarch sends his dysfunctional family into a frenzy over his vast fortune. With each sibling under suspicion, this wickedly sharp tale blends murder, greed, and high-stakes family drama, offering a biting commentary on privilege, morality, and the complexity of family.
The much-awaited follow-up to the award-winning international bestseller Auē, Kataraina follows Kat and her whānau as they recount her childhood and trauma, rooted in ancestral ties and a tragic past. Unflinchingly exploring the destructive ways people love and the connection to whenua, Manawatu’ssecond novel solidifies her powerful voice and astute observational prowess.
In Cher, The Memoir, Part One, the iconic artist and actor shares her life story with candidness and humour. From her turbulent childhood to her rise as a global superstar, Cher reflects on her complicated relationship with Sonny Bono and her trailblazing career. This first instalment reveals the woman behind the fame, in a life too immense for a single book.
Stanley Tucci’s What I Ate in One Year is a delightful memoir chronicling a year of meals, blending food with poignant reflections on life, family, and loss. From memorable dishes shared with loved ones to quiet meals alone, Tucci’s diary captures the emotional richness food brings to his evolving life.
Exploring the concept of paradise through gardens, The Garden Against Time blends personal memoir with historical and cultural reportage. As Laing restores a walled garden in Suffolk, she examines gardens as symbols of privilege, resistance, and community, as her beautifully woven narrative connects real and imagined Edens.
Often referred to as the ‘Nigella of wine’, Hannah Crosbie’s informed yet tongue-in-cheek approach creates a relaxed and refreshing space to learn about the often-esoteric world of wine. Her first book is an informal guide to wine — a go-to guide that matches wine with life’s important (and unimportant) events.
Joan Didion is revealed at last in this outrageously provocative and profoundly moving new work “that reads like a propulsive novel” (Oprah Daily) on the mutual attractions—and mutual antagonisms—of Didion and her fellow literary titan, Eve Babitz.
From an award-winning writer comes a beautifully-crafted collection of notes, memoir, and small moments of joy. Extracted from his notebooks of curiosities and wonderings, Slater captures life’s small, often overlooked everyday pleasures with warmth, humour, and tenderness in an exquisite anthology.
With the summer holidays ahead of us, there’s no better time than now to update your playlists with some recently-released tunes, from the evocative musical stylings of The Cure to a new soul-stirring album from The National. And if long walks or road trips are on the agenda, we have also lined up a selection of addictive podcasts to subscribe to for some entertaining and informative listening.
New Albums
The Epilogue Dean Lewis
Dean Lewis’ third, full-length LP, The Epilogue, marks a new chapter in his journey, blending vulnerability and vitality. Written between tours, Lewis reflects on the past while hinting at the future. Featuring his signature emotional depth, the album solidifies his unique style and artistic evolution.
Song to start with: All I Ever Wanted
Songs Of A Lost World The Cure
“The most intense, saddest, most dramatic and most emotional record [The Cure have] ever made,” according to Roger O’Donnell — and rumoured to be the iconic English post-punk rock band’s last, Songs of A Lost World is set to embrace the melancholic and lovesick themes the group has long-been known for, offering a moving meditation on love and loss.
Song to start with: A Fragile Thing
Rome The National
Recorded at the Parco Della Musica Ennio Morricone in the Eternal City, The National’s Rome is a 21-track live album spanning
20+ years of the lauded band’s discography. Reinvigorating beloved classics like “I Need My Girl” and “Bloodbuzz Ohio,” alongside new rarities, Rome beautifully captures the band’s dynamic live performances and ever-evolving sound.
Song to start with: Humiliation
Late To The World IDER
IDER’s Late To The World is a bold evolution of the duo’s sound, blending lush electronics, blistering indie rock, and cinematic storytelling. Produced by Dann Hume, the 12-track album features singles like “Unlearn” and “You Don’t Know How to Drive,” marking a journey of self-discovery and creative maturity for the alt-pop sensations.
Song to start with: Late To The World
New Podcasts
The Dilemma
In a series of funny, uncomfortable, and inspiring conversations, journalist Gina Rushton speaks to psychologists, political observers, activists, philosophers, and fertility specialists who all share the load in carrying a dilemma that can feel all too heavy at a time of uncertainty — should we become parents?
Shell Game
A podcast about things that aren’t as they seem by journalist Evan Ratliff. In Season One, Ratliff creates a voice clone connected to an AI chatbot and sets out to discover what happens when you try to control the technology that seeks to replace you, and what to expect from a future in which people may not be what they seem.
Friendship Therapy
In a follow-up to her beloved series, Best Friend Therapy, respected psychotherapist and author Emma Reed Turrell explores the nuances of friendship through a therapist’s lens, talking to real people about real-life friendships, unpacking and exploring these pivotal relationships with honesty, compassion, and practical wisdom.
Parental as Anything: Teens
This enlightening podcast gives practical advice on how to navigate raising teens, from porn to partying, body issues to bullying, and a veritable spectrum in between. Rebecca Sparrow, teen educator and author, speaks to parents and experts alike, unpacking the biggest challenges of parenting teens.
An afterthought for too long, the skin below the neckline is finally getting the attention it deserves. Here, we round up the best practices, treatments, and products to transform your skin — giving you the confidence to bare it all this summer.
Lymphatic Massage
From body sculpting and contouring to increased circulation, reducing fluid retention, strengthening immunity, supporting detoxification, and even enhancing nutrient absorption and bolstering overall health, the benefits of lymphatic massage are vast.
Dry Brushing
Simple and effective, dry brushing — an ancient Ayurvedic practice from India within which a natural bristle brush is used to gently massage the skin, stimulates the lymphatic system, increases circulation, and gently exfoliates — removing toxins, increasing energy, and reducing cellulite.
Skin Contouring
From Lanreé’s Thermage®️FLX system, which uses radiofrequency therapy to help smooth, tighten, and contour skin, to Body Catalyst’s revolutionary HIFU body contouring treatment, to the RSL Sculpting Beautylizer, there are a number of non-invasive, efficacious skin sculpting treatments with results that speak for themselves.
Hard-Working Creams & Serums
Designed to help visibly tone, tighten and firm the skin, there are myriad bespoke formulations that actually work — from Nécessaire’s The Body Serum to Sisley Paris’ Le Sculpteur.
Whether you lean towards accessories that are classic, adventurous or typically trend-driven, there is a raft of new sunglasses for women and men to suit any style or taste. Because whatever you may think about the unusually rainy start to summer we’re having, a pair of reliable sunglasses is absolutely essential for any sleek, seasonal look — and will be your best friend when the sun does finally decide to show up.
The holidays are here, which means a well-deserved break for all of us — including those in the hospitality industry. Fortunately, there are a handful of establishments keeping their doors open over the break, so if you do find yourself wondering where you can go for a bite out in Auckland, these are the places to visit.
From its delicious food to its sprawling space, Bivacco has found fast popularity with discerning Auckland diners — and for good reason. Thankfully, this summer, Bivacco Bar & Grill will open every day except for Christmas Day. And with plenty of long, summer afternoons on the horizon, we recommend booking a table in advance — especially if you’ve managed to rustle up a crowd for a convivial lunch in the new year. (Although there’s usually always room to squeeze in at the bar.)
Luckily, for anyone hanging around over the break, Andiamo has generously decided to keep its doors open for most of the holidays, aside from the 25th and the 26th of December, and the 1st and 2nd of January. Any other day, you can stop in for some of its delectable Italian-style fare and perhaps nab one of the sought-after street-side tables.
Somm is shutting its doors from Christmas Eve until Boxing Day, opening up again between 27th — 31st December for those staying in the city and looking for a perfect spot to enjoy a festive tipple and a celebratory afternoon in the sun, before taking a break during the 1st and 2nd of January.
Left: Somm Wine Bar & Bistro. Right: Soul Bar & Bistro
Aside from Christmas Day, Soul Bar & Bistro’s hours are remaining more-or-less normal. Despite being closed for Christmas Day, Soul is back open on Boxing Day, with the bar open from 11am and DJs kicking off from 2pm, set to play through to the wee hours to keep the festive spirit going. Soul will also close on New Year’s Day, to give its team some much-needed R&R. Might we suggest you do that too?
Michael Meredith’s impeccable restaurant serving elevated Pacific fare is keeping its doors open throughout the break. With a special Christmas offering available on the day itself, a New Year’s Eve menu, and their usual fare and delightful drinks available throughout the festive period, Metita will be a lively spot to spend a long lunch or convivial dinner over the break.
All of Commercial Bay’s wonderful eateries are staying open for the entirety of the break, only shutting down for Christmas Day, meaning you’ll be able to dine at the likes of Advieh, Ahi, Origine, Gochu, The Lodge Bar, Gemmi and more all summer long.
Securing a table at Amano is not typically an easy task, so while most people are out of town, use this time as an opportunity to dine at this widely-loved, modern Italian restaurant. Amano will only be closed on Christmas Day, before returning to its regular hours for the rest of 2024 and into the new year.
We’re never short of reasons to visit Bar Magda — from their delicious fare and inventive cocktails to the aperitivo hour and more, and we’ll be heading in over the summer (likely for all of the above) and suggest you do, too. They’re shutting up shop for a much-deserved break on the 21st of December, and opening their doors again mid-January.
The carnivorous amongst us will be delighted to find that Jervois Steakhouse is open for most of the holidays, only shutting its doors between the 25th and 27th of December, then again on January 1st and 2nd. Visit the Herne Bay stalwart at any other time and it’ll be business as usual.
Dine in at Park Hyatt’s Onemata and Living Room eateries right through the holidays, with only slight changes to their usual scheduling. The Living Room will suspend its high tea service on the 26th and the 27th of December, otherwise, you can book as usual, as Park Hyatt is open on both the 1st and 2nd of January and beyond.
Our go-to Parnell institution Non Solo Pizza will still be serving its delectable Italian fare and (importantly, given the timing) pouring all manner of lively libations across the festive period, only shutting up shop on the official public holidays to give their lovely staff a much-deserved break.
The Hotel Britomart’s flagship restaurant is welcoming patrons most days over the holidays, including Christmas Day (find details for its Christmas lunch here) and New Year’s Eve (find here). For those seeking a much-needed staycation, we happen to think The Hotel Britomart’s adjacent dining offering is perfect.
The QT Hotel’s Mediterranean must-visit, Esther, is open right through the holidays and is also offering a delicious New Year’s feasting menu — find details here — on the 31st of December. The Rooftop at QT is also putting on a fun New Year’s Eve party not to be missed.
With a beautiful, elevated outlook, and inspired cuisine unlike anywhere else in the City, MoVida is one destination you’ll find us at often this summer. Service here will be taking a momentary pause this year, with the kitchen closing from the 25th of December until the until the 18th of January, before reopening its doors for plenty of convivial celebrations.
If you’re making the most of a sunny day in Auckland with a stroll around Viaduct Harbour, why not stop in at Hello Beasty? The flavoursome fusion restaurant will be closed from the 24th of December until the 4th of January at 12pm — just in time for a delicious long lunch to mark your return to the office.
Another Viaduct Harbour mainstay, Saint Alice has even more days open on its calendar, this year offering both a Christmas Day lunch and a New Year’s Eve party, only closing its doors for a short reprieve on Boxing Day. A festive lunch up high above the water, with some of the best food in town? Sounds like a great way to mark a special occasion if you ask us.
Other holiday hours worth noting:
A — B
Advieh:Open throughout.
Ahi: Closed 25th December, open from 5pm 26th December, 1st – 2nd January.
Cassia: Closed on 25th December, 29th December, 1st January & 5th January.
The College Hill Wine Room: Closed 25th — 26th December and 1st — 2nd January.
Daily Bread: Ponsonby, Point Chev, Britomart, Belmont, Newmarket, New Lynn — Closed 25th — 26th December & 1st — 2nd January. Federal St — Closed 25th December and open from 8th January.
Depot: Closed 25th & 26th December, open from 12pm 27th, closed 1st — 3rd January, open from 3pm 4th, open from 11.30am 6th — 10th January.
Duo: Closed 23rd December — 3rd January.
Dr Rudi: Closed 25th December.
E — H
Ebisu:Closed 25th & 26th December.
Farina:23rd & 24th December, open 12pm – Late, closed 25th & 26th December, 30th December & Tuesday 31st December, open 5pm — late, closed 1st & 2nd January
First Mates, Last Laugh: Closed 25th December.
Gilt: Closed 25th — 26th December, open from 5pm on the 27th December, 11.30am — late 28th-31st December and closed 1st — 5th January.
Honey Bones: Closed 23rd December — 7th January.
Hotel Ponsonby: Closed 24th December — 4th January. Reopening from the 5th, 12pm — late daily.
Huami: Closed 23rd — 24th & 30th December.
I — O
Kol: Closed 23rd December — 8th January.
Kome: Closed 25th December.
Knead on Benson: Open throughout. 6.30am — 12pm on Christmas Day.
Olle: Closed 23rd – 26th December and from 30th December — 2nd January.
Onslow: Closed 25th-26th December, open from 5pm 27th — 28th December, open 12pm-5pm 29th December, open from 5pm 30th — 31st December, closed 1st — 2nd January, open from 5pm 3rd — 4th January.
Orbit: Open throughout.
Origine: Closed 25th —26th December, open from 5pm 1st — 2nd January.
Ortolana: Closed 25th December.
Osteria Uno: Closed 22nd December — 3rd January.
P — S
Palmer: Closed 22nd December — 14th January.
Parro:Closed 23rd December – 7th January.
Portside Cocktail bar:Closed 24th December – 6th January.
Queens Rooftop: Closed 25th & 26th December.
Ragtag: Closed 23rd December — 9th January.
Rhu: Closed 25th & 31st December — 1st January.
San Ray:Closed 25th — 26th December & 1st — 2nd January.
Schapiro’s: Closed 23rd December — 2nd January.
Síso: Closed 25th December — 12th January.
Skybar: Closed 25th December.
T — Z
Takapuna Beach Cafe:Open throughout. 7am —12pm on Christmas Day.
The Brit: Closed 24th — 26th Decemberand 1st and 2nd January.
The Grill:Open throughout, 5pm — close.
The Pantry at Park Hyatt: Closed 25th December— 6th January.
The Store: Closed 25th December.
Trivet:Open throughout.
Tobi: Closed 25th December & 1st January.
Two Fold: Closed 23rd December — 9th January.
Tyler Street Sport: Closed 24th December — 6th January.
Modern life is categorically busy. Between work deadlines, school pick-ups, endless admin, and carving out (rare) moments of downtime, our schedules are more packed than ever, and maintaining our homes can quickly become a chaotic extension of our endless to-do lists.
There’s a reason the old adage ‘tidy home, tidy mind’ persists — a clean, organised space doesn’t just look good, it feels good. A tidy home is a quick-fire way to create calm amidst the chaos, righting our wrongs and transforming our homes (back) into the sanctuaries they’re meant to be.
Which is where the unsung heroes of modern living come in: clever, efficient, tech-forward appliances that make tidying up less of a chore. Technology has revolutionised nearly every corner of our lives, and now it’s firmly made its way into our cleaning equipment, too. LG — a brand synonymous with innovation and sleek design, has long understood the need for efficiency, delivering solutions that enhance our daily lives. With over six decades of expertise shaping the future of consumer electronics, LG continues to redefine what’s possible, this year setting a new benchmark for modern living with its new vacuum cleaner range — the A9X series, designed for the way we live today.
At the heart of the novel range is the A9CX 2-in-1 Auto Emptying Tower handstick, the flagship Auto Emptying Handstick, and the innovative Auto Emptying Robot Vacuum — all of which are housed in one single, streamlined unit, offering a premium, hands-free solution that sets a new benchmark for convenience.
This ultra-modern marvel, which boasts a slew of advanced features, sets a new standard in the market with the stick vacs unique Auto-Emptying technology, sparing you the mess and hassle, and its Dual Floor Max nozzle, which transitions effortlessly between hard floors and carpets — not to mention best-in-class suction, reducing the time it takes to whizz through the house.
The A9CX isn’t just efficient — it’s smart, too. Using the LG ThinQ app, you can monitor and control your vacuum remotely, and let’s face it, cleaning on the go sounds like the ultimate life hack. While at work or out running errands, simply schedule your Auto Emptying Robot Vacuum to whizz around the house — before returning home to spotless floors.
Add to that its lightweight design, intuitive display, freestanding, all-in-one charging, storage, and emptying station, and sleek aesthetic, and you have a vacuum cleaner that doesn’t just perform — it looks good whilst doing it.
LG’s A9X series redefines cleaning with effortless precision. It’s innovation, elevated — turning your home into the tidy, serene haven you deserve.
The A9X range is available at Harvey Norman and Noel Leeming stores nationwide.
One of the best parts of traversing the country is sampling the amazing eateries New Zealand has to offer and, luckily for us, we’re spoiled for choice when we step outside our usual culinary stomping grounds. For your gastronomic pleasure, we have compiled a mouth-watering selection of the best cafes and restaurants, from Paihia to Dunedin, and several stops in between. Be sure to check the opening hours before you make a pit stop — especially as holiday hours come into play.
The iconic Gables in Russell has been refurbished and rebranded. The Heritage-listed building (Built 1847) is now operating as The Gables Osteria & Enoteca, serving freshly made pasta and approachable Italian fare alongside Northland & Italian wines. The Gables is where old-world elegance collides with the warm, welcoming ambience of a casual osteria, and is a must-try if you’re heading up North this summer.
No matter the season, a woodfired pizza and a couple of beers at Hone’s Garden always hits the spot. Located in the heart of Russell, we recommend exploring the charming town by foot, then parking up at a picnic table where you’ll be well taken care of.
Perched on sunlit slopes overlooking the Bay of Islands, Omata Estate marries boutique wines with unforgettable dining. The Omata Kitchen serves gourmet platters and wood-fired pizzas crafted with locally sourced ingredients, perfectly paired with the vineyard’s finest drops.
With unparalleled waterfront vistas, an assortment of delicious sharing plates, and an impressive cocktail menu featuring the all-important expertly-made Negroni, this charming addition to the far North has become a regular stop on any discerning road-tripping itinerary.
Nestled in the heart of Paihia, Terra pairs sweeping ocean views with an innovative à la carte menu. Showcasing local ingredients, sustainable practices, and global culinary flair, this modern eatery delivers unforgettable dining. While there, don’t miss the creative beverage offerings and vegetarian-friendly dishes that highlight the vibrant Far North.
A relative newcomer, Local Talent Taverna beckons visitors with its unpretentious charm and a menu brimming with Mediterranean flavours. In this unassuming space, Matt Hawkes (of Wellington’s cult-favourite Mason) captures the essence of Northland’s local produce, with a distinctly European flair.
Sampling the tasty lineup of brews at McLeod’s Pizza Barn is crucial to any traveller, and so is getting stuck into its pizza. There’s a laundry list of tasty options to try, from classics like the Margherita with basil pesto, tomato and a double helping of mozzarella to more creative flourishes like the Workhorse with salami, pepperoni, artichoke, gherkin and olive tapenade.
This Shaw Road destination is so much more than just a perfect coffee refuelling stop, set to the sounds of the rolling surf. While the fish and chips are truly excellent, the Coconut Chicken pizza with kasundi and cashew & coriander pesto is unbeatable and best devoured with feet firmly planted in the sand. Add it to your bucket list.
Embracing the tradition of gathering and eating around a communal fire, Camina harnesses the ancient cooking style to craft delicious fare perfect for sharing. With a menu that celebrates local produce, an incredibly friendly group of staff and an impressive drinks list that heroes locally-brewed beer, New Zealand wines and gin cocktails, this is one spot you don’t want to skip.
This eatery in Kuaotunu, Whitianga, is the ultimate laid-back destination adored by holiday-goers from all parts of the Coromandel. Admire the million-dollar view as you enjoy craft beers and devour smoky wood-fired pizzas. Destinations like this are a reminder that some humble restaurants are legacy for good reason.
Found in Central Tauranga, but still only a stone’s throw from the famed beaches of Mount Maunganui, Picnicka is a Denizen favourite in this neck of the woods. Weekend brunches here are some of the most enticing in the region, and come dinner time, the impressive woodfire makes its mark on the menu, offering a truly memorable experience for all.
Breadhead, the bakery born out of Love Rosie Bakery, expanded from a small shop into a charming cafe, offering a space for customers to savour their heavenly bread and pastries. With Brent Beamish’s self-taught baking skills at the forefront, Breadhead is enticing with its array of treats, including miso tahini sourdough, fluffy pastries and doughy-soft sandwiches, all crafted with a commitment to quality ingredients and attention to detail.
A relative newcomer to the Mount, this enticing spot specialises in chewy, hand-rolled bagels, sweet pies, and great coffee. With a hidden, leafy garden out back, lovely staff, and some of the best coffee in the area — not to mention delectable food, which runs the gamut from stacked bagel sandwiches brimming with local produce, to the infamous sweet pies with flavours like Burnt Caramel and Malteser Mousse on rotation, this is one spot you won’t want to skip.
Location:Waiheke Island Tantalus has been loved for its inventive food, award-winning wines and stunning location ever since opening its impeccable new space (the work of Cheshire Architects) in Onetangi Valley. Even the approach from the driveway is enough to take our breath away — and it only gets better from there. Given the estate’s popularity, bookings are absolutely recommended.
The Heke is a must-visit destination in Onetangi — home to a wood-fired restaurant as well as the award-winning Waiheke Whisky and Waiheke Brewing Co. Owned by two Waiheke families, who have created a welcoming feel, you can park up at one of the many outdoor tables, watch the kids bounce around on its jumbo bouncing pillow and have a thoroughly lovely afternoon.
Nowadays, Onetangi is a world-class culinary destination with a line-up of sophisticated eateries with sweeping views of its beautiful beach. But before all this, there was Charlie Farley’s, a laid back restaurant and bar that locals and visitors alike kept coming back to. After a refurbishment, and the new moniker of Charlie’s, this Tropicana-inspired eatery sets the scene for an array of crowd-pleasing dishes. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner — and complemented by suitable cocktails all day long — Charlie’s is holding its own among the newcomers.
On the ridge above Cowes Bay, Waiheke Distilling Co. has unrivalled views of the ‘other side’ of the Island, looking out to Pakatoa Island and the Coromandel beyond. The artisan gin producer led by Liz Scott and Glen Cadwallader champions the local botanicals that grow in abundance in the area, while also allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. Not only the birthplace of brand new gins, but home to a stunning garden bar as well, they deserve to pour themselves a drink — for a job well done.
On the far Eastern side of the Island, Man O’ War is a complete slice of paradise. It’s where you will find 75 of Waiheke’s 100 vineyards. At the start of it all, the winery’s exquisite beachfront Tasting Room spills out onto a lawn where long lunches can be indulged in, before a stroll along the tranquil Man O’ War Bay. With covered and outdoor park bench seating, and plenty of room for little ones and pets, you can get that picnic feeling all year round.
The most romantic spot on the Island, in our opinion, Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant is a charming estate to while away the hours on Waiheke. The Restaurant offers a sensory culinary experience while its modern bistro, the Archive, serves island-inspired dishes in a relaxed setting. With an outdoor bar and charming private dining rooms also available to book, Mudbrick sparkles as much as its view of the Hauraki Gulf.
A little bit off the beaten beach track, Casita Miro is found in the frondescence of the Miro Vineyard. Set back from Onetangi Bay with views to the township and sea, Casita Miro is a Spanish-inspired tapas restaurant that appears more like a greenhouse than a dining room. With a colourful tiled ascent and courtyard, charming gardens and twinkling fairy lights at night, it lends itself to truly unique and memorable occasions.
Nestled in a valley of olive trees, Stonyridge Vineyard & Cafe offers an enchanting experience. The ongoing dream of owner Stephen White, it’s situated on an ideal north-facing site to both harvest vino and welcome visitors. Enjoy Stonyridge’s platters and seasonal plates with a glass of the estate produced Waiheke Bordeaux wines under the shade of its vines, which grow overhead — and all around.
On the aforementioned Onetangi promenade, 372 takes casual dining up a notch while keeping a breezy island vibe. Run by Luke and Helen Carter, who, in fact, originally set up their neighbouring stalwart (Charlie’s) — 372 feels like a luxury resort offering with an expansive front deck overlooking the beach, and a sheltered patio with a showcase bar towards the back. The menu subscribes to summery by-the-beach food with an elevated edge.
The third, and finest, jewel in Onetangi’s crown is Ki Māha by Dominique Parat. The artfully designed restaurant has a front deck with panoramic views that are a pleasure to be a part of. Indoors, the sophisticated interior is just as charming. The menu combines sustainably harvested seafood and ethically farmed meats, with locally sourced seasonal fruit and vegetables — expressing the essence of Aotearoa cuisine.
At the end of a country lane in the Awaawaroa Valley, Poderi Crisci is an Italian family-owned vineyard and restaurant. As such, it’s a stunning destination vineyard, which appreciates the art of al fresco food and wine, and fine gardens. Antonio Crisci and his partner Vivienne Farnell also originally opened the charming Non Solo Pizza in Parnell, but now their focus is on this slice of Tuscany, on Waiheke. The main restaurant is inspired by the finest traditional cuisine of the chefs’ homeland, prepared with local produce and modern touches. Next door, La Locanda is a breath of fresh air, for those who prefer a more casual outing — still with freshly shucked Te Matuku bay oysters accompanied by a glass of Poderi Crisci Arneis.
It seems the further we get from the main township of Waiheke, the more carefree things become.Passage Rock Wines in Te Matuku Bay was established in the 90s, and while the team takes great pride in their award-winning varietals, their home base is a friendly, casual place where you can enjoy pizza, platters and tapas over summer. Surrounded by Syrah vines, the Bistro café comes with lawn games to entertain all ages and encourage the whole family to enjoy a day out.
Te Motu Vineyard is a hidden jewel in the island’s already impressive wine stable, but has fast become one of the most popular Waiheke restaurants. The estate is nestled in the stunning Onetangi Valley, and epitomises every element of the ultimate Waiheke experience. Famed for their award-winning reds (of which we recommend sampling the entire cellar), The Shed’s restaurant offerings are created to complement the varietals, with a modern-rustic approach that harnesses the best of local produce in an un-intimidating way. An essential on every Waiheke itinerary, we think.
They say good things take time, and this is exemplified at daytime eatery Akitō, named after the word for doing things slowly in te reo. Owners Shantala Tengblad and Simon McNeish’s approach their cooking and food practises with patience, love and attention, especially with their plant-focussed pickling, preserving and fermentation. With inventive twists on typical brunch and lunch fare, this holistic eatery on Ocean View Road, Oneroa, is certainly one of the best Waiheke restaurants.
Josh and Helen Emett were regulars at The Oyster Inn since it opened in 2012, and made their presence official in 2020 when they became the new ‘innkeepers’, taking the restaurant and hotel on an exciting new trajectory. Situated above the shops on Ocean View Road, it has charming views of Oneroa Beach and of spectacular sunsets on a good day. The coastal-inspired bistro menu features fresh seafood dishes and seasonal crowd-pleasers. The namesake oysters come from Waiheke’s own Te Matuku, harvested fresh daily.
When thinking of where to wow visitors to Waiheke Island, Cable Bay is often first in mind. Both its award-winning dining room and the more casual wine bar have served many intimate dinners and laughter-filled lunches for over a decade, all to the stunning backdrop of its sweeping views back to Auckland city. With an ever-revolving display of produce, Cable Bay’s focus on seasonal goods means that we’re met with different, garden-fresh fare on every visit. The short meander back to the ferry through native bush afterwards completes the full experience.
Sip, savor, and unwind at Soho’s chic new Cellar Door on Waiheke Island. Nestled in lush vineyards on Onetangi Road, this industrial, New York-inspired oasis offers award-winning wines, Soho street food bites, and a picturesque spot to while away an afternoon to nature’s stunning soundtrack. A perfect blend of Waiheke charm and Rock’n’Roll flair, this newly-opened spot is a paradise for wine lovers.
Built on the nostalgia associated with ice cream and balmy kiwi summers, Island Gelato Co. has long been the go-to spot for a taste of island paradise. Owners Ana Schwarz and Geoff Tippett opened their gelateria originally as a pop-up in Oneroa many years ago, and — multiple new openings on the mainland and a new location on the Island (up Ocean View Road) later — it still has us lining up for more.
Whether you’re out for a casual dinner, ordering takeaways to be enjoyed on the beach, or slurping a few Bloody Marys the ‘morning after’, The Courtyard is the place to go. Set off the main stretch in Oneroa, the carefree Waiheke restaurant has a bach-like feel to it, with a mix of indoor and outdoor dining and enviable water views. Stop by no matter the time of day and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, with refined food.
The perfect spot en route to the West Coast beach, it’s easy to see why The Shack is a favourite among locals. Open for breakfast and lunch, the rustic menu is filled with favourites like housemade granola, bagels and the Hungry Surfer burger. There are also vegan and gluten-free options aplenty, ensuring no diner is left behind.
Whether you seek the perfect pick-me-up with their invigorating coffee and seriously good cakes or crave a truly gratifying lunch, this joint has you covered. With a laser focus on bold, robust flavours, Cream Eatery takes pride in crafting dishes that showcase the true essence of ingredients, allowing their natural allure to shine through every bite.
Hamilton natives Anh and Pat Chaimontree do an outstanding job plying the people of Hamilton with their delicious Vietnamese eats. Trained in the addictive cuisine since watching her grandmother cook as a child, Anh has carefully honed her craft to creatively deliver flavoursome, family-style fare, from street food dishes through to fresh noodles and salads.
Quite likely the best thing to happen to the ‘Tron since the Botanical Gardens, Lisa and Brent Quarrie’s cafe by day and gastropub by night — complete with glittering hand-blown Monmouth glass pendants overhead — is a highlight within the burgeoning artisanal food scene.
A rarity in these parts, Embra’s unflinching offering is easily on par with some of the best in major cities, and it’s small boutique and back-street nature makes it all the more endearing. Boasting a celebration of modern Kiwi cuisine, French and British cooking techniques and locally grown produce, the set menu is a constantly evolving work of culinary art.
Less of a destination and more of an essential for those passing through, Cafe Baku’s plentiful cabinet offerings never fail to impress. From housemade salads to fresh, stuffed sandwiches (and the hallowed Allpress coffee), it is as reliable as it is enjoyable.
Zephyr is the epitome of Gisborne’s growing surf culture. The plant-based cafe is the brainchild of four friends who wanted to use delicious food to better the world. Perfect for a post-swim smoothie bowl, or the beloved Brekky Burritos, this Wainui Beach outpost feels straight out of Byron Bay.
This eatery quickly reached stalwart status in Taranaki for exhibiting nothing short of brilliance. Loved by locals as much as it is us out-of-towners, the bistro offers a new take on shared dining that always promises deliciousness.
At this widely-acclaimed Hawke’s Bay stalwart, Michelin-quality food is served in a relaxed atmosphere, with focus placed on freshness, flavour and dishes that promise to surprise and delight diners. Offering a set, five-course menu that changes daily (depending on the ingredients available), this restaurant is the kind of elevated dining experience that puts a unique twist on classic fine dining.
Drop into this fun, lively wine bar and wine shop for a glass of whatever takes your fancy, whether it be a bottle of something from overseas or a lauded local — the extensive wine offering here is highly-curated and ever-evolving. Alongside its wine list, Matisse offers tasting sessions, a seasonal menu of delectable sharing plates and tapas and an array of cocktails, craft beers and ciders.
The Ōkato is a newly renovated, historic hotel just south of Taranaki. Its flagship eatery, Little Trench, and bar, Trencherman, offer some of the most divine food we’d never expect to find in this corner of town. Think salmon and egg toasts, home-baked gluten-free cakes, and coffee you can rely on (a long road trip essential).
The Best Of
Hawke’s Bay
Left: Black Barn Bistro, Havelock North Right: Sazio, Hastings
After enduring extensive damage from a fire, Black Barn Vineyards’ bistro has emerged from the ashes, presenting a renewed ambience and an evolved menu. Chef Regnar Christensen crafts a culinary journey that features delights such as curry leaf butter poached fish with tamarind & kawakawa curry, topped with crayfish oil, charred cucumber with pedro ximénez vinegar and whipped ricotta and a strawberry poached meringue with coconut and lychee.
Fresh, foraged flavours are what you will find at Napier’s contemporary restaurant, Bistronomy. The menu changes along with the season and the dishes only feature the best of the best ingredients, ensuring that everything that comes out of its kitchens is top quality.
Run by none other than Mr Vinci himself, this Napier hotspot is serving up pizza pie just as it should be; big, thin-crusted and extremely tasty. Lord knows we love a good slice of the aptly named Banger.
If you’re looking for something different from the usual winery-based dining in Hawkes Bay, Central Fire Station Bistro in Napier is serving up a crowd-pleasing menu. In one of the art deco buildings that make the city so quaint, and like all good eateries, there’s a strong focus on local, seasonal produce, a fitting choice as the region is abundant with its offerings.
This sustainably-minded aperitivo and cocktail bar has fast gained a loyal following and for a good reason. Born from the idea of bringing a world-class cocktail bar to Hawke’s Bay, Teresa celebrates local, seasonal produce, creating its exceptional beverage offering via sustainable practices and locally-sourced ingredients. Being a small, walk-in-only venue, Teresa offers an intimate, boutique vibe and some of the best drinks you’ll likely have ever tried.
At this simple neighbourhood restaurant, expect to enjoy utterly delicious food and wine in a cosy, laid-back atmosphere. On the menu, classic dishes collide with modern flavours, with a variety of dishes to suit any persuasion (including a dedicated kids section). Alongside your dinner, enjoy a glass of wine from Mary’s award-winning line-up or a cocktail or two if you’re that way inclined.
It is fitting that ‘Sazio’ means ‘full’ or ‘satisfied’ in Italian because that is exactly how you’ll feel after dinner at this delicious Hastings restaurant. With menus that hero delicious pasta and authentic, Italian dishes, Sazio’s food shines in its simplicity, with a focus on good quality ingredients and exceptional flavours. Expect it to be busy — for good reason.
Helmed by a chef who cut his teeth working in Michelin-starred restaurants overseas, Malo serves modern restaurant food with a sophisticated twist, harnessing the potential of seasonal local produce to offer a fresh take on European-inspired cuisine.
The Best Of
Wellington
Left: Highwater Eatery, Wellington Right: The Runholder, Martinborough
Taranaki Street’s August Eatery has all the makings of a new classic. The menu feels a little Honey Bones-esque while still offering its own slant on staples like Istanbul Eggs and pappardelle pasta for breakfast.
Taking up residence on Aro Valley’s main drag, this intimate 30-seater restaurant feels more akin to a delicious dinner party with friends. The set menu evolves every day, focussing on (as they all do) fresh, seasonal produce that pays homage to the surrounds. With two sittings every night, while the menu is never guaranteed, the execution is always delightful.
Found tucked away in lower Cuba Street, the open kitchen’s crown jewel is the charcoal oven imported from Spain, which informs everything Mediterranean inspired on the menu. Complete with local craft brews and an excellent wine list, it’s an intimate destination we recommend for lunch and dinner.
GPO transcends the boundaries of hotel dining by offering an enchanting retreat for indulging in modern European cuisine. With a menu that showcases ‘fruits of the sea’ alongside beautiful hand-crafted pastas and more, this culinary gem beckons any traveller seeking something new.
Kisa is Wellington’s answer to fresh, Middle Eastern fare. With a prime corner position on the infamous Cuba Street, the menu is casual yet chic, beginning with an impressive dips menu that extends all the way to indulgent dishes designed to share.
Taking up residence where former cult-favourite Mason once stood, Margot’s menu describes itself as a seasonal work in progress. It is part wine bar, part dining destination, that offers an ever-changing raft of sumptuous small plates to share.
Nestled on the edge of the famed Martinborough Terrace amid Wairarapa sits The Runholder, an expansive new hospitality beacon by Foley Wines that celebrates the best of the region’s spoils. With its restaurant, tasting room, cellar door, distillery, private dining room and subterranean barrel hall, The Runholder sits pretty on a run of land at Te Kairanga vineyard — a plot originally held by Martinborough’s pioneering namesake, John Martin. Here, you’ll find exquisite local food and drink, striking views, and endless ways to while away a day in paradise.
Built by the Dixon family, who felled their own trees, The Mussel Inn is an off-beat institution in Onekaka that brews its own beer, serves wholesome fare and features live music.
With a menu of imaginative seasonal dishes designed for sharing, accompanied by a thoughtfully curated wine selection, including rare and natural wines. Arden invites you to indulge in a gastronomic experience that celebrates the richness of local produce and intimate dining.
Fine European cuisine hasn’t always been synonymous with Nelson, but Le Plonc’s inspired offering is worth discovering. (In fact, it has quickly made it as one of the best restaurants in New Zealand.) Using local wildlife photographer Craig Potton’s works as the starting point (whose gallery is co-incidentally next door), the degustation menu is complemented with divine French wines, culminating in a truly memorable meal.
Serving up a raft of utterly delicious fare that harnesses the mouth-watering potential of charcoal-fire cooking, Harvest is a must-visit for anyone stopping in Blenheim. For the team at Harvest, ‘authenticity’ is the name of the game, where ever-changing seasonal menus tap into the best local produce, and the culinary maestros in the kitchen whip up most of their dishes in a Mibrasa Charcoal oven (the kind used in a number of Michelin Star restaurants around the world). Here, diners will not only discover exceptionally tasty food but they will be treated to world-class hospitality in a breathtaking, Marlborough setting.
Appearing to levitate above the water on Nelson’s winding waterfront, Boat Shed’s seasonally inspired menu celebrates elevated New Zealand produce every day. Here, make the most of the nearby port’s bounty with freshly caught seafood, and an outlook that truly feels like summer, no matter the weather.
Hopgoods & Co is a Nelson institution, with the bistro taking up residence in the heart of the city, serving seasonally based bistro-style food with the best of the region’s artisan produce. Intimate and chic, it’s always delicious.
Far from the winery destinations, Arbour is undoubtedly one of New Zealand’s finest regional restaurants. It is perhaps the grandest showcase of Marlborough’s bountiful offering and delivers a four-course tasting menu and a seven-course dining experience.
Found on the coastline between the Marlborough Sounds and the expanse of Christchurch is Kekerengu’s The Store. Some 60km north of Kaikoura, the rugged coastline makes for a beautiful holiday drive, and The Store is the perfect pitstop. It’s been a mainstay for almost three decades, serving much of the same locally sourced fresh fish. The breathtaking views of the beaches beyond are just a welcome addition you can expect to find around these parts.
Inati’s captivating fare, meticulously prepared and sourced from the finest local ingredients, adds a new element to Christchurch’s dining scene. From the intriguing Boeuf-nuts to the evocative Donkey Carrot, Chef Simon Levy’s culinary artistry unfolds amidst a thoughtfully designed space, promising a seriously unforgettable meal.
Earl will transport you with its European bistro-style classics and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The all-day eatery and wine bar is not only one of New Zealand’s best restaurants but is a must-visit for fans of unpretentious food with an emphasis on flavour and premium ingredients.
At the southern destination’s Gatherings, organics take precedence. Boasting the official title of the country’s first natural wine bar, the drinks offering is just a wonderful complement to the food, which by our judgement, is second to none. Featuring modern, innovative fare, that loosely nods to Mediterranean cuisine, it is essential dining for any Christchurch vacation.
This excellent spot offers a unique taste of the South Island that needs to be on your radar. Bessie specialises in dry-aged cuts, so vegans need not apply, and trust us, they’re not exaggerating when they claim to be ‘Canterbury’s best’. With a complimentary wine menu that promises to keep you perfectly libated, Bessie is a Christchurch favourite.
This popular brunch spot, with it’s killer coffee and mid-century modern / Scandi aesthetic, never misses. Located in a light, airy, architecturally-designed industrial space on Manchester Street, here, you’ll find a European-influenced menu, Lyttelton Coffee Company coffee, a cabinet brimming with grab-and-go goods, and an eclectic crowd — with a place for everyone.
This modern Euro-Asian eatery is best-known for it’s creative Korean, Chinese, and Southeast Asian fare, served in a dimly-lit, moody space in the heart of Christchurch city. With striking views out to the Avon, beautifully conceived interiors, and an inventive menu sure to satisfy, this inner-city go-to should be at the top of your dining agenda when visiting the Garden City.
A town traditionally considered a pit-stop, Barkers’ new eatery is the perfect spot to while away some time in South Canterbury. Half shopfront for the now-impressive New Zealand food brand, the eatery is what has us coming back. Serving Allpress Coffee (a rare commodity around these parts), the menu showcases Barkers’ brilliance with delicious local slants on eggs benedict, French toast, and burgers for later in the day. We’d also suggest the Tasting Platter, where local cheeses and produce have been expertly paired with some of Barkers’ emblematic condiments.
Anyone undertaking the harrowing journey south to the snow will be familiar with Fairlie Bakehouse — or, more specifically, the pies. With 4000+ Google reviews and counting, it’s fair to say that these pies are unrivalled and are an essential contribution to a car of happy travellers.
Set on a piece of historic land in Arrowtown, Ayrburn is the spectacular new dining precinct that is shaking up New Zealand’s culinary scene. Here, you’ll find original farm buildings now housing a series of exceptional hospitality venues that will offer visitors a vast array of experiences. From delicious, family-friendly eateries to intimate bars, fine dining restaurants, picnic spots, a gelateria and more, you’ll find something for every taste and proclivity.
Loved for its passionate commitment to being both organic and 100% sustainable, the Sherwood kitchen is very much focused on a homegrown ethos. With a philosophy of things “not having to travel far” to make it onto your plate, the team at Sherwood have an extremely deft way of working locally grown produce into unspeakably delicious dishes.
Odd Saint complements its owners’ previous impressive destinations but also sits as a unique establishment — a bistro-style eatery that puts a deliciously creative spin on an otherwise traditional menu, offering what the owners call ‘global soul food’.
Perhaps the region’s most familiar destination, there is good reasons the crowds habitually frequent Amisfield’s restaurant and cellar door. Helmed by Executive Chef Vaughan Mabee, the flavour profiles on this menu are so authentically regional, you can see how the entire team are doing all that they can to honour both the specialness of the environment and the species that live there.
Formerly (and fondly) known as Akarua, Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen recently stepped into its second culinary chapter. Renowned for its magical outdoor courtyard and its cottage garden festooned with flowers, Mora is the ideal spot to dine with a group without compromising on fanciful fare.
With a menu inspired by the intricate cooking techniques of Northern Italy and showcasing premium, Central Otago produce, Aosta is the South Island venture from renowned chef Ben Bayly and is one of the best restaurants in New Zealand. Putting a Kiwi spin on fine Italian food, this incredible restaurant has become a fast favourite among locals and visitors alike.
An extension of the Rodd & Gunn clothing empire, The Lodge Bar is the place to sample the best food and wine our country has to offer. Located on the lakefront side of their retail store, the picturesque setting is made all the better by the seasonal menu, designed by famed Kiwi chef Matt Lambert, formerly of New York City’s Michelin-starred Musket Room.
Authentic Tex-Mex, frozen margaritas and legendary service collide at Miss Rita’s Cantina, the latest eatery to open its door in Queenstown’s newest hospitality precinct below the Skyline Gondola. Sure to deliver a seriously good time for the whole family, the all-day eatery is bright, airy, and all about kicking back and relaxing over great food and delicious drinks. Sublime.
This vibrant modern-Mexican eatery is nestled down the end of The Precinct laneway, tucked off the main street, and offers the perfect escape. Take to one of the sun-drenched outdoor tables and order a round of margaritas and a selection of snacks, or tuck into one of the intimate booths inside for tacos, a tasty ribeye from the grill, and a namesake Paloma. No mater what you’re in for, dining at Paloma feels like a celebration, any day of the week.
On Clyde’s charming main street, Olivers is a sun-drenched café by day and an atmospheric restaurant at nightfall. As well as the calibre of wines you’d expect from Central Otago, the on-site Victoria Store Brewery pulls craft beers.
This iconic southern restaurant has been a pioneer of woodfired cuisine, noted as routinely serving up some of the country’s most delicious meats — the kind that you would only find around these parts. It’s not every day you’ll find us in Dunedin, so when you do, No7 Balmac becomes essential dining.
A trip to Dunedin wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Moiety, a sophisticated restaurant located in the historic warehouse precinct. With its five-course offering flawlessly showcasing local produce at its finest, each plate is like a work of art.
Here, the team from No7 Balmac presents an impeccable Italian restaurant at Saint Clair Beach, Esplanade, which serves up a slice of the good life. With interiors by Cheshire Architects, it’s cosy even when the waves are crashing.
Nestled in Dunedin’s quaint, beachy suburb of St Clair, The Junction is a laid-back drop-in specialising in perfect coffee, tasty sandwiches, nourishing salads, hot pies, and a cabinet packed full of wholesome, homemade treats — from carrot cake to cookies, scones to slices. A perfect place to call in solo, with the kids, for a quick coffee with a friend, or to stock up for a beach picnic.
One of Dunedin’s most famous institutions, Plato is the place to go if you’re looking for fresh seafood cooked to perfection. A treasure trove of quirky decor with a consistently lively vibe, here, you’ll find an extensive menu and considered drinks list featuring in-house Birch Street Brewery beers.
Think of this as Southland’s answer to Orphans Kitchen. It’s eclectic and, dare we say it, slightly hipster, with a thorough yet sincerely delicious coffee menu, and an all-day eats menu that ranges from bagels and Turkish eggs to pork belly bao buns.
At the tip of the South sits Oyster Cover Restaurant & Bar, where the focus is on both food and expansive views. Even if oysters aren’t your thing, plenty of local delicacies like a fresh seafood chowder, and at times, an iconic Southland Roll can be found.
This summer, Martinborough’s The Runholder invites visitors to an enjoy an unforgettable season. A packed calendar of events ensures there’s plenty to choose from, with highlights such as Lighthouse Gin’s new permanent distillery — where you can sip G&Ts or, indulge in an informative masterclass, and the unveiling of chef Tim Smith’s seasonal menu, which you can sample at a series of unmissable culinary experiences.
Those planning to celebrate Wellington Anniversary Weekend can do so with music, fine food, and wine at the NZ Symphony Orchestra dinner, a Gin Garden Party, and Toast Martinborough’s vibrant festivities.
Here, we round up everything happening at the exceptional destination across the coming months.
Festive Feasts & Lighthouse Gin’s New Permanent Home
The Runholder welcomes Lighthouse Gin to its new permanent distillery home this season, where, through floor-to-ceiling windows, those visiting will spot the custom-built Lighthouse Distillery copper still, handmade by Germany’s CARL — the world’s oldest still manufacturer. Sip a G&T while watching the distiller at work, or join an intimate masterclass to explore the Lighthouse story and gin-making process.
Meanwhile, those dining at The Runholder will discover a new a la carte menu by Chef Tim Smith celebrating summer with dishes like slow-cooked lamb shoulder with mint chimichurri and agria gnocchi with white truffle. Available daily for lunch and on Friday and Saturday evenings for dinner, guests can also indulge in a three-course tasting menu with paired wines.
And for anyone yet to make Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve plans, celebrate the festive season with a three-course Christmas Eve lunch of fresh fish, lamb, and decadent dessert, or a four-course New Year’s Eve dinner, featuring optional festive additions like oysters and chargrilled crayfish. Expect fresh, seasonal ingredients and expertly paired wines, making these events an unforgettable culinary experience this festive season.
Looking ahead to Wellington Anniversary Weekend The Runholder also has a line-up of inspired events celebrating the iconic local wine and food festival, Toast Martinborough.
The Runholder is celebrating the opening of Toast Martinborough Weekend in style, with an evening of fine food and music on Friday 17th January, in collaboration with New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. A string quintet of NZSO musicians will perform upbeat Latin pieces alongside a summer feast of fresh Wairarapa produce prepared by chef Tim Smith and his culinary team. Guests will be welcomed with canapés and aperitifs before being seated in the dining room for the ensemble’s performance of hot, fiesta-inspired pieces between three sumptuous courses of fresh fish, local meat and decadent sweets.
Settle in for an afternoon of gin at The Lighthouse Gin Garden Party, back again with a new Wellington Anniversary Weekend date in 2025. Martinborough’s own craft gin, Lighthouse, is starting the Toast Martinborough party early with an afternoon of music, local fare, Lighthouse gin & tonics, and cocktails from 12pm-5pm on Saturday 18th January. Join Distiller Rachel Hall down at The Runholder’s cottage and shaded gardens for cocktails, and indulge in some tasty food from the local food trucks as live music provides the perfect backdrop for dancing away the summer afternoon.
Join the winemakers of pioneering Martinborough wineries Martinborough Vineyard, Te Kairanga and Palliser Estate for a special Winemakers’ Dinner on the eve of Toast Martinborough (January 18th) and discover the next layer of this region’s coveted wines presented by the winemakers themselves. John Kavanagh of Te Kairanga, Tom Turner of Martinborough Vineyard and Guy McMaster of Palliser Estate have expertly selected some of their finest varieties and vintages to pair with a culinary feast which will see guests treated to canapés and four courses of fresh, local fish, prime cuts and decadent sweets, designed by The Runholder head chef Tim Smith in collaboration with each winemaker.
Raise a toast to Martinborough on Sunday 19th January, as you stroll your way down the vineyard-lined Festival Road from 11am and explore eight iconic Martinborough wineries at your leisure, including Te Kairanga, Martinborough Vineyard, Palliser Estate, Poppies, Luna Estate, Moy Hall, Tirohana and Ata Rangi. Indulge in the exceptional wines, delicious food and live music at each winery location and make the most of the long summer afternoon — dining and dancing into the early evening.
Settle in at the Runholder’s shaded cottage gardens for for a day of delights where bubbles, rosé and pinot will be flowing from Martinborough Vineyard, Te Kairanga and Palliser Estate wines, alongside vintage and magnum wines. Fine festival food by Crabshack, Shed 5 and Mao &Co will be perfectly accompanied by the summer tunes of the Uptakes, Ricky Boyd and the Boomshack Band, and DJs Takas, Jen Kyle & Coda. Offering prime views of the rolling hills and vineyards, it’s the perfect vantage point to immerse yourself in Martinborough’s breathtaking landscapes. Tickets for all toast weekend events are available here
Martinborough presents the perfect long weekend getaway. A scenic 1.5 hour drive through the Remutaka Ranges, or quick 25 minute helicopter ride from Wellington, and boasting some of the country’s best vineyards, most exceptional scenery, and exquisite dining destinations such as The Runholder, it’s the ultimate escape.
Auckland’s vibrant and bustling waterfront precinct, Viaduct Harbour, sits at the heart of our urban landscape, and has long-been the city’s go-to destination for celebrations and unforgettable experiences. Known for its energy and easy water access, this lively locale is where Aucklanders go to connect, thanks to the endless ways to fill a day. From waterfront dining to sunset cocktails, Viaduct Harbour is a haven for foodies and those looking to toast life’s special moments. For adventure seekers, the marina is your gateway to the Waitematā, offering chartered voyages and spectacular sailing experiences. And, for those seeking rest and relaxation, a luxurious staycation at the QT, Sofitel, or Park Hyatt awaits. At Viaduct Harbour, every visit is unforgettable — here is just one way to spend a day at the place where it all happens.
For an elevated stay in the heart of Auckland, Park Hyatt redefines luxury with exquisitely appointed rooms and sweeping views across the Waitematā. With four dining venues, a serene spa, infinity pool, and exclusive fitness amenities, all within a refined sanctuary, here, the welcoming hospitality the Viaduct Harbour is known for comes to life.
Start your day on a high note at Sean Connolly’s Esther — a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired eatery within Viaduct Harbour’s QT Hotel. With its stunning new al fresco dining space reminiscent of a Spanish seaside retreat and European-style brunches spanning the healthy and wholesome to the substantial and satisfying, there’s no better spot to kick off the day.
Beyond its culinary and maritime appeal, Viaduct Harbour’s art scene enriches its landscape with captivating works worth viewing. From Jeppe Hein’s Long Modified Bench to Graham Tipene and LandLAB’s Te Mata Topaki lookout to Phil Price’s Cytoplasm sculpture — each exemplifies the artistic innovation that defines this culturally rich precinct.
With Waitematā Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf on the doorstep, charter a boat from the bustling marina for a day of adventure — from scenic cruises to thrilling sailing, or simply island hoping and swimming. For a tailored experience, Rua Moana luxury charter promises an unforgettable day on the water.
Bivacco’s incredible corner site with ample outdoor seating is the perfect place to perch for a leisurely lunch, afternoon aperitivo, dinner, or nightcap. Brimming with action that’s sure to conjure up the convivial spirit whatever the occasion, Bivacco is a Viaduct Harbour scene stealer.
Central to Viaduct Harbour’s allure is its thriving dining scene, and the jewel in the gastronomic crown is Soul Bar & Bistro. Here, the vibe is always lively, the food ever-changing and always tasty, and the cocktails among some of the best in the city — all best enjoyed on the sprawling, sun-soaked, floral festooned terrace.
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