Planning a holiday? Here’s why you should book a luxurious island getaway at Te Vakaroa Villas

26 Feb 2025

If you’re already planning next year’s holidays, why not lock in a luxurious island getaway? With crystal clear waters, beautiful nature, and plenty of sunshine, Rarotonga is the perfect escape, and at the award-winning Te Vakaroa Villas resort, rest, relaxation and recuperation await.

An opulent retreat deserving of its accolade as the ‘Best South Pacific & Oceania Luxury Architectural Design Hotel’ in the World Travel Awards, Te Vakaroa Villas in Rarotonga is an oasis of tranquillity and refined elegance.

As you step into this exclusive haven, a sense of serenity will take hold, signalling the start of an extraordinary escape. The award-winning accommodation is nestled discreetly along the pristine beachfront of Muri Lagoon and comprises six luxurious villas, impeccably designed to merge with the Island’s natural allure, each offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Designed by renowned architect Lawrence Sumich, the resort harmoniously blends with its lush surroundings, where spacious interiors converge into outdoor spaces adorned with inviting loungers and a horizon-edged, heated infinity pool. The villas themselves are thoughtfully appointed and incredibly comfortable, offering convivial communal areas for dining and lounging as well as intimate spaces for relaxation, and moments of secluded repose.

Exquisite, daily tropical breakfasts are just the beginning of the culinary experiences here. With dining options ranging from Sails restaurant to the vibrant flavours found along the island road, guests can indulge in Rarotonga’s vibrant and flourishing culinary scene as well as its plentiful natural wonders.

From beachfront strolls to adventurous kayak expeditions, the Island’s many splendours beckon from the unparalleled vantage point this accommodation offers. The only dilemma will be deciding whether to venture out and explore or savour every moment within the embrace of this heavenly escape.

Need To Know

When to Visit: The best time to visit Rarotonga is between April and November, when the weather is warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 24 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius.

How to get there: Air New Zealand flies direct from Auckland to Rarotonga. When you land on the island, you will be driven 20 minutes to Te Vakaroa Villas via private transfer.

Insider’s Tip: Exploring the Muri Lagoon is a must while on holiday here. Make time to hire a glass bottom boat, or embark on a wind surfing or sailing adventure. The Rarotonga Sailing Club at Muri Lagoon welcomes all visitors.

tevakaroavillas.com

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Start a new midday ritual with Esther’s Steak Frites Lunch

Words Sjaan Askwith | 26 Feb 2025

Lunchtime just got a whole lot better at Esther. From Monday to Friday between 12pm — 3pm, enjoy a 300g Speckle Park sirloin, seared to perfection and topped with café de Paris butter, served alongside endless crispy duck fat frites — all for $35 with the eatery’s Steak Frites Lunch.

Whether it’s a team lunch, a midday date, or a solo escape from the office, Esther’s relaxed setting makes it easy to settle in and relax. And, if you fancy lingering a little longer and making a meal of it, add a freshly baked puff bread or a Curious Croppers heirloom tomato salad, pairing a glass of whatever you like to elevate the experience further.

Simple, classic, and always satisfying, Steak Frites at Esther is the perfect excuse to step away from your desk and make lunch something to look forward to. No reservations required — just turn up and enjoy.

estherrestaurant.com

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Transform your kids’ room into a creative oasis by looking skyward for inspiration

26 Feb 2025

Create a whimsical wonderland for your little ones by looking to the skies for inspiration. Soft, ethereal clouds will create a calm canvas, complimented best by subtle hues and tactile touches.

Get the look

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GOLD HANDLOOM CASHMERE Rug from Design Central

1977 Mini Playtime Sofa from King Living

MDF Italia Randomito Hanging Bookcase from Matisse

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The most captivating characters from the third season of The White Lotus, thus far

Words Sjaan Askwith | 25 Feb 2025

Mike White’s spellbinding social satire, The White Lotus, returned for its third season last week and already, the world is frenzied over the new ensemble cast, luxurious resort, and, of course, the face-down body in the show’s opening scene.

Since its first season, the show has hooked viewers with its complex, morally corrupt, horrible (yet, often bizarrely likeable) cast of characters, and this season is already proving no different. Tackling themes of class, sex, race, wealth, morality, and this season, spirituality, with astute finesse, White’s brilliance lies in his unique capacity to portray people in all of their messy glory, blurring the lines between love and hate, good and bad, innocent and guilty.

Here, we round up our favourite characters from the third season of the show thus far, as we wait with baited breath to discover who the villain (and victim) is before the end credits roll.

Pam

Homegrown hero Morgana O’Reilly steps into the role of resort staffer and ‘health butler’ Pam with pitch-perfect precision, infusing the series with her signature, quintessentially Kiwi brand of sardonic humour. As she caters to the whims of the monied Ratliff family, O’Reilly — renowned for her sharp comedic prowess — delivers a captivating performance as a knowing staffer who sees straight through their farcical dilemmas.

Victoria Ratliff

Parker Posey stars as Victoria Ratliff, a self-medicated Southern American socialite on holiday with her high flying businessman husband, Timothy (Jason Isaacs), and their three children. With her languid, Xanax-laced charm and exaggerated drawl, Hollywood’s beloved ‘Indie Queen’ crafts a character that’s both compelling and unpredictable — one to watch as the cracks in this picture-perfect family begin to show.

Chelsea

Sex Education’s Aimee Lou Wood shines as Chelsea, a free-spirited Mancunian on holiday with her much older, perpetually glum boyfriend, Rick. Quickly emerging as the season’s most endearing character (her response to a meagre wine tasting pour — “I don’t mean to complain, but that’s not very much” — certainly helped), Chelsea feels like the perfect embodiment of a cheerful Brit abroad, and with her charm and effortless authenticity, we can’t wait to see where the season takes her.

Saxon Ratliff

Patrick Schwarzenegger (yes, Arnie’s son) delivers a compelling turn as Saxon Ratliff, the acerbic, entitled heir determined to earn his father’s approval — whether or not it’s warranted. The eldest Ratliff sibling, Saxon has little interest in Thailand’s Buddhist philosophies, embracing instead the ruthless tenets of capitalism — money, power, and a not-so-charming streak of misogyny, all wrapped up in a desperate need to prove himself.

Belinda Lindsey

This season welcomes back Natasha Rothwell as Belinda, the warm-hearted spa manager from season one — endearingly kind, yet perpetually out of her depth among the privileged and morally corrupt guests. This time, she’s joined by her son, Zion, the only character we can confidently say is safe from the inevitable chaos. As Belinda embarks on what feels like a doomed journey of self-reconnection, her return is sure to bring both heart and heartbreak.

Laurie

Renowned for her nuanced portrayals of complicated women, Carrie Coon joins this season’s ensemble as Laurie — a businesswoman and mother whose holiday with childhood friends Jaclyn and Kate quickly reveals itself as anything but relaxing. Trapped in endless, vacuous conversations, Laurie swiftly realises her companions aren’t who they once were, and as tensions rise, we’re left wondering just how far one burnt-out woman can be pushed before reaching breaking point.

Chloe

French-Canadian actress Charlotte Le Bon steps into the role of Chloe, a regular at The White Lotus who lives nearby with her older boyfriend, Gary. But keen-eyed fans will recognise ‘Gary’ as none other than Greg — Tanya’s (Jennifer Coolidge) scheming ex-husband, who likely walked away with her entire fortune after her untimely, watery demise last season. Whatever Chloe sees in him, we can only hope her fate is kinder than Tanya’s.

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Bowler’s Wynyard Quarter outpost is the perfect spot to grab a delicious, nutritious lunch

Words Sjaan Askwith | PHOTOS Jake Pears-Scown | 21 Feb 2025

Since setting up shop within the foyer of Les Mills Victoria Park late last year, Bowler has quickly solidified itself as one of the city’s top spots for a quick and easy, yet entirely delicious and satisfying bite come lunchtime. In fact, demand has been so high for the eatery’s namesake salad bowls, that they’ve already opened the doors to a second outpost, transforming Williams in Wynyard Quarter into a second Bowler location.

Conceived by brothers Patrick and Charles Williams, the initial idea for Bowler came about super organically, with Patrick whipping up bowls similar to what’s on the menu for dinner most nights. Inspired by salad/bowl-leaning, fast-casual brands around the world (such as Australia’s infamous Fishbowl), the pair saw an opportunity to bring their own version to New Zealand.

“We agreed that fast food sucks,” Charles tells me, “There is far too much of it in New Zealand, and we want Bowler to be another choice — a more nutritious choice — for a wider audience.” The duo quickly realised that, to meet their mark, they needed to make the offering fast and affordable. As such, for under $17, you can get a jam-packed salad bowl with quality, local ingredients and proteins, made fresh and from scratch, everyday.

The most popular iteration is the #2 Beef Brisket, which comes brimming with juicy, slow-cooked, grass-fed brisket and harissa, pickles, dukkah, hummus, beets, kale, and a flavourful herb dressing, with the #3 Mt Cook Salmon bowl with edamame, crunchy furikake, avo, ginger, and a ponzu dressing coming in a close second. But, speaking from experience, they’re all delectable, and the perfect wholesome lunch, not to mention great for feeding a crowd (catering is up and running, and a great option for meetings or events).

Williams regulars will be pleased to discover their beloved cheese and egg baps in the cabinet in the mornings, alongside a concise breakfast menu of acai and protein oat bowls. And those seeking a sweet fix post-lunch, the tahini choc chip cookies that flew out the door at Williams (the best cookie in town), and the already-infamous protein cookies are on offer, providing a perfect pick-me-up when the afternoon slump hits.

On the drinks front, coffee comes first, but the drinks menu has been created to cater to everyone and anyone, offering a bit of everything. From mushroom lattes to iced matcha, acai smoothies, and even a bone broth hot chocolate, as well as damn good Supreme coffee, at Bowler, there’s something for any time of day, and taste or proclivity. There’s also a grab-and-go fridge stacked full of functional beverages from local suppliers.

The new Bowler location builds on what Charles and Patrick have created at the first — a new take on takeaways, where nutritious, nourishing, satisfying food is served fast and made with care. “Slow food, served fast.”

Opening hours:
Monday — Friday, 7am until 2pm
Saturday, 8am until 2pm

bowlerbowler.com

Bowler Wynyard

G03 85 Daldy Street
Wynyard Quarter
Auckland

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Indulge in a Japanese feast like no other at Ebisu’s Oki No Sushi Saturdays

Words Sjaan Askwith | 21 Feb 2025

Available exclusively on Saturdays from 11am to 4pm, Ebisu’s Oki No sushi feast is a weekly event not to be missed, bringing together the best of Ebisu’s delectable offering.

Here, diners are invited to indulge in a Japanese-style buffet with unlimited fresh sushi, sashimi, and Japanese-inspired dishes, for $85 per person (if the kids are in tow, they’ll eat half price). A mix of classic and contemporary sushi rolls are on offer, from salmon avocado to more inventive iterations. A sashimi selection joins the fresh and flavoursome smorgasbord, and a selection of Japanese-style salads, a poached prawn cocktail with toban djan and schichmi sauce, and noodle station serving up soba noodles add to the all-encompassing offering.

A rotating selection of hot dishes including Big Glory Bay salmon, market fish with yuzu miso, teriyaki roasted beef, and more will also be on offer, plus an array of decadent desserts like Yuzu Cheesecake Brulee and Green Tea Chocolate Brownie.

Secure your spot, here, to make the most of this delicious, limited-time deal.

savor.co.nz/whats-on

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Esteemed chef Sid Sahrawat is set to elevate in-flight dining with Singapore Airlines

Words Sjaan Askwith | 21 Feb 2025

Few New Zealand chefs are as synonymous with innovation and refined dining as Sid Sahrawat. The acclaimed chef, who counts Cassia, Kol, Anise and The French Cafe as eateries in his oeuvre, is now taking his culinary prowess to new heights, embarking on an exclusive partnership with Singapore Airlines.

As part of the airline’s esteemed Guest Chef programme, Sid will craft four seasonal menus for First Class and Business Class passengers departing from Auckland and Christchurch, starting on the first of March. The collaboration promises an elevated take on in-flight dining, celebrating premium New Zealand produce with Sid’s signature creative touch.

Flyers can expect a sophisticated experience deeply rooted in quintessentially Kiwi cuisine,
focusing on provenance and local produce, with dishes that highlight local ingredients while weaving in Sid’s Indian heritage.

His first menu — which we had the pleasure of previewing and can confidently say is exceptional — features indulgent selections such as poached crayfish with corn and spring onion hash, a rich Canterbury lamb rack with roasted kūmara and korma sauce, and a delicate classic pavlova with salt baked pineapple. These dishes, alongside Singapore Airlines’ renowned wine selection, are set to redefine the in-flight dining experience, further elevating the airline’s already world-class hospitality.

Canterbury Lamb Rack with Roasted Kūmara and Korma Sauce

“I’m thrilled to partner with Singapore Airlines on this exciting culinary collaboration,” says Sid. “I’m looking forward to passengers experiencing a taste of our restaurants in the air, and want it to be the best in-flight meal they’ve ever had — taking that last bite of Aotearoa as a memory with them on their journey.”

With Singapore Airlines’ unwavering commitment to culinary excellence and Sid’s visionary approach, this collaboration will see New Zealand’s finest flavours take flight — delivering a world-class dining experience at 30,000 feet.

singaporeair.com

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Movie night: Kids will love these nostalgic 80s & 90s film favourites

21 Feb 2025

We might be harking back to the past with rose-tinted glasses, but one thing’s for sure: they don’t make kids movies like they used to.

This weekend, snuggle up with the family and throw on one of these ten classics from the eighties and nineties. Even if the special effects are a little more, shall we say, rustic, than modern day, it’s part of their charm and we’re sure you’ll find they stand the test of time.

The Goonies (1985)

Cult favourite The Goonies follows a pack of boys as they uncover a treasure map that, you guessed it, leads them on an exciting and perilous adventure. Searching for the long-lost treasure of legendary 17th-century pirate One-Eyed Willy, The Goonies encounter more than they bargained for.

Matilda (1996)

A bright young girl with extraordinary telekinetic powers, Matilda Wormwood outsmarts her neglectful parents and battles the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, with wit and magic. This Roald Dahl classic is a heartwarming tale of intelligence, resilience, and finding family in unexpected places.

Beethoven (1992)

Chaos and charm collide when a lovable, oversized St. Bernard named Beethoven turns the Newton family’s world upside down. Between mischievous antics and a heartwarming bond, this family comedy is a feel-good adventure filled with slobbery kisses, laugh-out-loud moments, and plenty of puppy love.

Home Alone (1990)

Eight-year-old Kevin McCallister accidentally gets left behind at Christmas and must defend his home from two bumbling burglars. Armed with clever traps and endless tricks, Kevin turns the holiday mishap into a hilarious, action-packed adventure that remains a festive favourite for all ages.

Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

In a desperate attempt to stay close to his kids, a devoted but unconventional dad disguises himself as a quirky, elderly nanny. Robin Williams’ comedic genius shines in this heartfelt, hilarious film about love, family, and the lengths one will go to for their children.

It Takes Two (1995)

When identical strangers — one a wealthy socialite, the other an orphan — discover their uncanny resemblance, they hatch a plan to swap lives and unite their guardians. Featuring the Olsen twins at their best, this charming mix of adventure, romance, and mischief is a nostalgic delight.

E.T the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

Who could forget a young Drew Barrymore’s ear-splitting scream as she discovers her brother’s new alien friend in their house? When a gentle alien becomes stranded on Earth, a young boy named Elliott befriends him, leading to a heartwarming adventure filled with wonder, friendship, and the iconic bicycle flight. A timeless Spielberg masterpiece, E.T. captures the magic of childhood and the power of connection.

The Parent Trap (1998)

Long-lost twin sisters, separated at birth, reunite at summer camp and plot to bring their divorced parents back together. With playful pranks, heartfelt moments, and Lindsay Lohan’s standout dual performance, this modern remake of a beloved classic is a delightful watch for all ages.

Richie Rich (1994)

The world’s wealthiest kid, Richie Rich, has everything — except real friends. When a scheming executive threatens his family’s fortune, Richie and his loyal butler embark on an action-packed adventure to save the day. A fun, lighthearted film about friendship, family, and the power of kindness.

Space Jam (1996)

When the Looney Tunes challenge alien invaders to a high-stakes basketball game, they enlist NBA superstar Michael Jordan to help them win. Blending live-action and animation, Space Jam is a fast-paced, fun-filled adventure packed with comedy, sports action, and nostalgic ’90s charm.

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Upgrade your shades with our guide to the new sunglasses that have our attention

20 Feb 2025

The power of a good pair of sunglasses should never be underestimated. In fact, picking the right shades for your face can enhance your natural features like nothing else. Consider shape, colour and lens style carefully — selecting the right pair will see your outfits pulled together perfectly.

Here, we present a curated edit of our favourite styles right now. From uber-cool cat-eyes to colourful lenses and sporty shapes, these are the slick new sunglasses to add to your collection.

Wrap-around frame Sunglasses from Miu Miu

Miu Miu wrap-around-frame sunglasses from Farfetch

Bottega Veneta
Sardine sunglasses from Mytheresa

Bottega Veneta
sunglasses from MyTheresa

Loewe Signature at-eye sunglasses from Mytheresa

Rectangular Cat-eye Sunglasses from Saint Laurent

Loewe Round Spoiler Aviators from Parker & Co

Celine Triomphe Sunglasses from Parker & Co

Jacquemus Miranda Frameless Sunglasses from Moda Operandi

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Resene is making a strong case for elevated neutrals this season — here’s how to harness the enduring trend

20 Feb 2025

Art direction — Amber Armitage/ Marigold
Photography — Wendy Fenwick/ Flash Studios

Lending subtle depth and dimension to any room of the home, a textured wall — rendered in a neutral hue, is a sure-fire way to add intrigue to an otherwise simple space. Here, the experts at Resene show us how to best harness this enduring trend.

While a neutral palette may feel like an easy option to employ throughout the home, in reality, it takes careful consideration and a trained eye to ensure simple hues don’t leave a space feeling soulless and uninviting. With neutrals, understated elegance is the objective, and a carefully selected, serene palette will imbue your home with an appeal that feels both timeless and embracing. And, if you wish to take an ordinary space to extraordinary heights, a textured dimension applied to a neutral wall is sure to make an impact.

Resene

Colours To Try

It is, of course, to the experts at Resene which we turn for advice on all things colour, who not only offer a vast array of hues, but the expertise to help in transforming your home into a refined sanctuary.

Walls and pillar painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Tea with Resene Paint Effects FX tinted to Resene Quarter Tea applied over the top. Floor painted in Resene Walk-On in Resene Tea. Travertine rug from Weave Home. Audo Interconnect candle holder, Donut side table from Tim Webber. Dining candle from Citta Design. Alster low table from Ligne Roset. Balloon vase 03, Anne Brigman book and Tuck scented candle from Slow Store. Apollo sofa by Maxalto, Big Shadow floor lamp by Cappellini and Bong table by Cappellini from Matisse.

A soft ivory acts as the perfect foundation from which to begin, offering a subtle backdrop with gentle warmth. Here, this natural shade has been enlivened with the use of texture — a layer of Paint FX adding depth and dimension, and complimenting the contemporary interior details. Simpler than they seem to achieve — thanks, in large part, to Resene’s innovative Paint FX range, textured walls have the ability to enliven any room of the home.