Sundays are sorted at Azabu Mission Bay, where the eatery’s new Steak & Sushi Sundays offering awaits

One of the city’s most consistently popular and universally beloved dining spots, the signature blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavours and dishes at Azabu Mission Bay hit the mark every time, and trust us when we say that we have visited enough to say this with conviction.

Now, as part of Savor’s Spring Food Festival, Azabu Mission Bay is celebrating Sundays in a very enticing way — with a new Steak & Sushi Sundays offering set to kick off this coming weekend (August 18th), running every week until the end of September.

Azabu Mission Bay

Here, diners will find an exclusive set menu featuring locally sourced meats cooked on the Robata grill (from 250-gram scotch fillet to chicken yakitori) alongside signature sushi rainbow rolls, the freshest sashimi, kingfish ceviche and snapper katsu tempura.

Served platter-style, for $170 the Steak & Sushi platter feeds 3-4 diners, and promises a feast for the senses with something for every taste and proclivity. And if you’re feeling indulgent, there’s the option to upgrade — with Japanese Wagyu, double the sashimi and a fresh New Zealand scampi added to the mix.

Azabu Mission Bay’s exclusive Steak & Sushi set menu, featuring meats from the Robata grill

On the drinks front, there’s a curated selection of Roku cocktails up for grabs for a modest $16, or ice-cold Asahi for just $10 — the perfect accompaniment to the fare on offer.

Book a table here to make the most of this exceptionally delicious deal.

savor.co.nz/festival

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Wallace Mua’s latest venture, Trivet, is an elevated new all-day bistro in the city inspired by a multi-cultural Aotearoa

Since bursting onto the scene over a decade ago, Wallace Mua has proved himself a trailblazing force in the world of gastronomy. From the bustling kitchen of Soul Bar & Bistro (where he was given what he describes as his “big break” by the esteemed Gareth Stewart) to a six-year stint working in kitchens in France, to returning to helm some of the city’s top eateries (Kingi and Euro, to name a few), and a stint as the official cook for the touring All Blacks during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, it’s fair to say that Mua has experienced the kind of diverse career many can only dream of.

Chef Wallace Mua
Right: Paua vol-au-vent

With a cooking style he describes as ‘elaborately simple’, Mua loves experimenting with Pasifika flavours inspired by his Samoan heritage — weaving in techniques and ingredients that draw upon the vibrancy of the islands. His new position, heading up the kitchen at Trivet, an elevated new all-day bistro in the heart of the city, is the culmination of his culinary journey thus far, with each of the chef’s dishes a celebration of both flavour and heritage. “Trivet is more than just a restaurant; it’s a reflection of my personal journey and the influences that have shaped my culinary philosophy,” Mua explains, “Each dish tells a story, blending flavours and techniques from around the world to create something truly unique.”

For Mua, Trivet embodies his cooking ethos, which isn’t tethered to a particular style of food or concept, but instead honours his heritage and the vibrancy of New Zealand’s inclusive dining scene, which the chef notes finds a place for everyone. “There are so many different cultures and styles here, with so much opportunity for creativity and interpretation. Everyone is a foodie in their own right.” 

Chef Wallace Mua preparing his octopus carpaccio
Left (front to back): Trevally oka and octopus carpaccio. Right: Trivet’s New Fashioned Cocktail

On the food front, diners can expect a feast for the senses, with signature dishes that showcase Chef Wallace’s world-class culinary repertoire. From the vibrant trevally oka, to the indulgent slow-cooked beef cheek cromesquis, reminiscent of his time in France, every dish is a celebration of flavour and heritage.

Lamb loin
Left: Whole gurnard

Trivet’s interiors have been meticulously designed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, blending organic textures with contemporary elements. Drawing inspiration from Aotearoa’s natural environment and iconic landscapes, Trivet features an earthy palette of greens, neutrals and warm wood tones, connecting diners with the land. Floor to ceiling windows reflect the natural light, seamlessly bringing the outdoors inside and encouraging guests to linger at the all-day bistro as the sun sets.

Right: Coconut and white chocolate mousse

Inspired by a multi-cultural Aotearoa, Trivet is set to celebrate the evolving richness of the people, culture, and heritage unique to our corner of the world. And who better to be at the helm than a chef who has long been a champion of all that New Zealand has to offer.

Right: Trivet’s Pied Piper Cocktail

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week, Trivet is located at 22 Albert Street neighbouring the prestigious JW Marriott Auckland hotel.

Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday, 6.30am until 10.30am and 12pm until late

trivetdining.co.nz

Trivet

JW Marriott Auckland
22 Albert Street
Auckland

Gastronomy

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Left to right: Polly Markus & Liv Carter

Soul Bar & Bistro is teaming up with Polly Markus (of Miss Polly’s Kitchen) for an unmissable day of seriously delicious food — secure your spot now

In the second installation of its speaker series, Soul is handing the mic to Polly Markus (AKA Miss Polly’s Kitchen), in celebration of her highly anticipated second cookbook, Seriously Delicious, which launches on August 20th. Known for her laid-back and joy-filled approach to cooking, Polly has amassed over 70,000 followers on her Instagram account, and now, with her second cookbook launching this month, the Instagram chef is teaming up with Soul for an evening of seriously delicious food and what is sure to be an entertaining and enlightening Q&A with the eatery’s GM, Liv Carter.

Polly doesn’t follow foodie trends, nor does she overcomplicate dishes — she simply creates great food and recipes that people will love to cook and share with friends. An ethos that Soul too embodies wholeheartedly. And, come Wednesday, August 28th, between 12 — 2pm at Soul, guests will find the best of both worlds, as the clever team in the Soul kitchen recreate a selection of Polly’s new recipes, served alongside Malfy cocktails, while Liv and Polly talk all things cooking, entertaining, and how to make cooking (and eating) a little less seriously and a little more fun.

With Polly’s spirited personality and delicious fare, and Liv’s unfaltering ability to kick-start a good time, this is guaranteed to be an exceptional event not to be missed. Tickets are $95 per person, which includes a tasty, three-course lunch and a Malfy cocktail on arrival. And with the opportunity to be one of the first in the country to get your hands on a (signed) copy of Seriously Delicious, we know tickets won’t last long. Secure your spot by calling Soul on 09 356 7249 or email [email protected], stat.

soulbar.co.nz

Gastronomy

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Left to right: Gilt Brasserie, Bar Magda & The Grill

Heading to Lion King Live this August? We have everywhere to eat, drink and celebrate around the event

There’s nothing quite like a thrilling live event to draw us out of the comfort of our homes in winter, and luckily, Auckland’s cultural calendar has been brimming with events as of late — with another set to captivate audiences this August. Lion King Live is taking place on August 30th and 31st at Aotea Centre, promising a music event like no other, as the magic of Disney’s animated classic The Lion King is coupled with the power of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra as it performs the beloved Oscar-winning score by Hans Zimmer and songs by the likes of Elton John and Tim Rice — live to film.

Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra

If you have plans to head along, we’ve compiled a discerning list of where to eat, drink and celebrate around the event, encouraging you not just to make a night of it, but an entire weekend.

Where To Celebrate
With Kids in Tow

Huami

While Auckland has no shortage of exceptional eateries, few venues in the city boast cuisine as delicious and satisfying as contemporary Chinese eatery Huami. We find ourselves turning to this SkyCity favourite time and time again; so consistent is its delivery of excellent dining experiences — from exceptional Yum Cha to a very well-stocked bar, lively vibe, and the most central of locations, plus free parking for diners and a menu that caters to kids, there are very few boxes Huami doesn’t tick.

Masu’s kid’s bento box

Masu

SkyCity’s Japanese stalwart has long been a family favourite. The kids can enjoy a bento box with all the beloved Japanese delicacies, all while mum and dad enjoy some delicious fare from the regular menu and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.

Fed Deli’s ‘Lil Feds’ menu

Fed Deli

This CBD stalwart is Auckland’s answer to the classic New York deli. Here, food is simple, flavourful and utterly indulgent, and guarantees to offer a satiating meal at every sitting. Any Aucklander worth their salt will have a go-to order here (more than likely the chicken salad sandwich with chicken skin crackling, iceberg and dipping gravy), but it just so happens The Fed also caters incredibly well to mini discerning diners too. The ‘Lil Feds’ menu features a number of tasty delights, from a basket of fish and chips to a mini version of the famed chicken sammy and more. There are also $12 milkshakes available for the school holidays, with chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and banana to choose from.

Where To Celebrate
Pre-Show

Cassia

Cassia at SkyCity takes modern Indian to new heights, with a delicious selection of contemporary delights perfect for sharing with a group pre-event. In the most central of locations, with a dimly-lit, vibrant dining space, as well as a number of set menus to choose from for those looking to turn lunch or a pre-event bite into a gastronomic delight.

The Grill’s Seafood Tower

The Grill

Beloved Auckland institution The Grill is back after a short hiatus, and better than ever — now conveniently located in the new five-star hotel within the SkyCity precinct, Horizon. Here, the emphasis is on steak and seafood, with exceptional, local produce taking centre stage. Book a table and indulge in a very satisfying pre-show bite, and maybe head back after the show for a drink if you’re staying in the area, or if you, like us, simply can’t stay away.

Gilt’s baked Oysters

Gilt Brasserie

Drawing on refined restaurant culture from around the world, Gilt delivers on all fronts — from the menu, featuring contemporary takes on classic dishes you’d find at a European brasserie, to world-class wines, timeless cocktails and more. There’s no better spot to park up for lunch, dinner, post-show drinks, or anything in between — just make sure to order the baked oysters and a Gilt Gimlet.

The chic, Parisian-inspired Paname Social

Paname Social

Paname Social is a chic, Parisian-inspired restaurant and wine bar serving decidedly European fare all day. The menu has a strong French influence, with many dishes grounded in authentic recipes with ingredients sourced from local French suppliers. Food is served from dusk until dawn, the wine list is extensive, the cocktails are inventive and coffee is served around the clock, bringing a true taste of the European mode de vie to Auckland’s dining scene.

Where To Celebrate
Post-Show
Bar Magda’s bespoke Espresso Martini (left) and mouthwatering Tocino of barbecue pork belly

Bar Magda

Pre- or post-show, either way, a trip to Bar Magda is always an enjoyable and satiating affair. The cocktails are certainly some of the best in the city, with both inventive takes and elevated classics on offer, and the new-wave Filipino fare always surprises and delights. There’s also a bespoke ‘Espresso Martini Nights’ menu come Friday and Saturday, which features a number of delightful renditions of everyone’s favourite party starter, for a modest price, that are sure to set the tone for a great night.

Culprit & Little Culprit

While Culprit’s innovative culinary concept is perfect for a pre- or post-show bite, with an ever-changing menu comprising trolleys of snacks to share, the eatery’s ‘mischievous younger brother’, Little Culprit, is a fantastic spot to keep the party going. Quaint and chic, this cocktail bar and wine lounge boats an elevated yet relaxed atmosphere, and is perfect for those seeking a nightcap.

Tappo’s exceptional menu of snacks

Tappo

Set in an atmospheric spot within St. Kevin’s Arcade on K’Rd (Karangahape Road for out-of-towners), Tappo is a laid-back wine bar with an exceptional menu of snacks and an even better drinks list. Here, the focus is on showcasing wines from small, biodynamic, and organic producers from around New Zealand and Italy, and the always knowledgeable staff are on hand to recommend something perfect for every taste, proclivity, and mood.

www.aucklandnz.com

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Ebisu is hosting an unmissable wagyu event this month, and we have all the details

Wagyu beef originates from Japan and is renowned for its extraordinary marbling — a unique feature that results in unmatched tenderness and a rich, buttery, and decadent flavour. True steak aficionados will likely be able to spot the difference in quality (not all wagyu is created equal), but for most of us, it’s the experts to which we turn for the inside word on the best of this flavourful delicacy.

Ebisu is one such authority, with head chef Darren Johnson having a long history of crafting exceptional dishes that bring out the best of wagyu’s unique flavours and differing cuts. And this month as part of Savor’s Spring Food Festival, the much-loved inner-city haunt is hosting an exceptional culinary event centred on the art of wagyu, and the intersection of Japanese and kiwi cuisines.

surf & turf blow-torched wagyu & scampi roll

Here, diners are invited to enjoy hand-rolled wagyu tatar, surf & turf blow-torched wagyu & scampi roll, a wagyu shabu shabu, smoked wagyu brisket, and a unique New Zealand vs Japan showcase.

Alongside this carnivorous smorgasbord, guests will find a Glenmorangie Tale of Tokyo Mizu Manhattan on arrival, and enjoy wine matches from Church Road and St Hugo throughout the five-course meal.

Tickets are $185 per person and include five delicious courses, a cocktail on arrival, and four wines. You can secure your spot here.

savor.co.nz/festival

Gastronomy

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Meet Kemuri Hi-Fi — a bespoke basement lounge for lovers of vinyl, whisky and cocktails

In a subterranean spot beneath Commercial Bay sits Kemuri Hi-Fi, a bespoke new basement lounge bringing the essence of Tokyo’s jazz kissas to the heart of the city. 

The sultry underground bar is the brainchild of world-renowned bartender Jason Clark (JC) and promoter and record collector Vishal Vasan, aka DJ Vee. A subterranean sanctuary that uniquely showcases Clark’s fine whisky collection and Vee’s extensive assemblage of vinyl records, the vibrant new spot feels like a truly novel addition to the city’s hospitality scene, “Good music and delicious drinks are the key elements to a great bar experience,” says Vee. “Our collections are a slice of our personal journeys through hospitality and entertainment.”

An escape from the city’s hustle, Kemuri Hi-Fi offers an intimate social hub where high-quality drinks and curated music take centre stage (with a few Japanese bites thrown in for good measure), “Many years of travel, experiencing bars throughout the US, UK and Japan inspired us to create a uniquely Kiwi version of the classic Japanese jazz kissa,” says JC of his new co-found venture, “Kemuri Hi-Fi will be more like an international version of a kissa. In Japan, the drinks are often quite basic and you’re there to sip and listen, not talk. Whereas the international versions have more of a vibrant vibe, and this is what we’ll offer at Kemuri.” he continues.

Here, the drinks certainly go beyond basic, with an inventive cocktail menu, a curated wine list with an emphasis placed on quality Champagne, and, of course, an extensive whisky offering. In fact, JC’s whisky collection (which forms the basis of the offering), has been decades in the making, “I’ve picked up spirits of all kinds, but the bulk of it has been whisky. Many bottles were purchased on travels through Scotland, the US, Japan and Dubai,” he tells me, continuing, “Over the years I’ve opened, shared, and enjoyed far more than I’ve managed to keep sealed, but what I have kept and shipped home is all pretty special stuff — much of which isn’t available here,” he proudly states. “These whiskies, along with others hand-selected from local partners, will be displayed in cabinets and laid out according to flavour profiles as opposed to regions, making it much easier for people to navigate and select a whisky that suits their personal preferences.”

But, while Kemuri Hi-Fi undoubtedly specialises in whisky, there’s a lot more on the drinks menu to get excited about. With JC being a world-renowned cocktail bartender, a comprehensive and highly creative edit of high-level cocktails is guaranteed. “I’ve let the creativity run wild on this cocktail menu, alongside some clean, minimalist drinks to balance it out. I’m particularly excited about running a Japanese ice carving program which will really elevate our serves.” Being big Champagne fans, JC and Vee have set up partnerships with Moet, Dom Perignon, Krug and Armand De Brignac, to ensure they have an incredible selection of fine and rare Champagnes available.

Music also plays a fundamental role at Kemuri Hi-Fi, and, drawing inspiration from the incredible, bespoke sound systems you’ll find at Tokyo’s jazz kissas, Vee and JC commissioned a bespoke high-fidelity sound system by Tobias Shaughnessy of Tub’s Audio, which sits produly behind the bar and builds rich, layered, warm sonics. The space itself is fitted with acoustic materials to enhance the listening experience, while the music — Kemuri Hi-Fi’s essence, is Vee’s vinyl collection, accumulated over the course of a musical journey that began as a teenager in his hometown of Wellington in the early 1990s and has been collecting ever since. “Kemuri Hi-Fi will be a high-fidelity lounge for us to host a talented pool of incredible DJs, along with a carefully selected range of passionate record collectors who will be sharing their own musical influences and stories for the listening pleasure of our guests.” says Vee.

Further setting the bar apart, Vee and JC have dreamt up a number of alluring memberships (one of which includes a personalised bottle of single malt to sip on site) for those who want to connect with the bar and appreciate its equal parts: community and culture. The Whisky Membership offers VIP perks, plus a personal bottle of Kemuri Hi-Fi whisky to sip whilst visiting. Vee and JC have collaborated with Waiheke Whisky to craft a bespoke single malt whisky, with only 200 bottles produced, hand-filled from a single cask. The Champagne Membership offers similar perks, alongside access to exclusive Champagne and wine offerings and events, and your own bottle of Moet Grand Vintage, while the Kemuri Hi-Fi VIP Membership grants members access to monthly members events and early access to ticketed Kemuri Hi-Fi music events.

With a bespoke high-fidelity sound system, meticulously designed space, tasty bites, and an unrivalled selection of libations, Kemuri Hi-Fi blends the essence of Japanese kissas with Clark and Vee’s unique journeys, creating a haven for whisky aficionados and music lovers alike. “Come into our space, sit back, relax with a delicious drink and enjoy the music while we tell you a story and take you on a journey.”

Opening hours:
Tuesday to Saturday, 4pm until Late

kemurihifi.co.nz

Kemuri Hi-Fi

1 Queen Street Basement
Commercial Bay
Auckland CBD

Gastronomy

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Hello Beasty’s vibrant new menu is filled with compelling reasons to book a table
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Artichoke pizza & Charcuterie

With $30 lunches & $45 dinners, Somm is the place to be this Restaurant Month

Nestled in a prime position within Princes Wharf, Somm Cellar Door not only affords its guests incredible, waterfront views but is also home to what is perhaps the city’s most impressive collection of wine. Couple this with consistently tasty food and a laid-back vibe, and you’ve got a more than perfect place to spend a relaxed few hours at any time of day.

This month, adding to our list of reasons to visit, Somm are celebrating Restaurant Month in a number of enticing ways, with two specially curated set menus for lunch and dinner, designed to delight, available with recommended wine matches or an exclusive European wine flight.

Somm’s butcher cut 250g

For just $30, From 12pm — 3pm, Thursday through Sunday, Somm’s bespoke lunchtime set menu serves up a feast for the senses. Start with charcuterie, cheese and pickles, before selecting a main from an alluring edit of pizzas sure to satisfy.

If you’re looking to explore Somm’s expertise, add the European wine flight to your order. Featuring four, 75ml, bespoke pours for $34, spanning Italian whites to French reds, this addition is guaranteed to elevate any lunch to new heights.

Market fish

Come dinner time, the $45 set menu, available from 5pm, Tuesday through Sunday, offers an entrée and main course. To start, select from crudo or burrata, before following up with a delectable main — with both market fish with parsnip, apple and sorrel and Somm’s 250g butcher cut with Bannockburn jus and chimichuri both on offer.

As with lunch, the wine flight is an essential addition, while the pairings offer the ideal accompaniment to the exceptional food on offer.

sommcellardoor.co.nz

Gastronomy

Jervois Steak House unveils a decadent caviar service
Hello Beasty’s vibrant new menu is filled with compelling reasons to book a table
A Taste of Things to Come — According to the experts, flavour with flexibility is higher than ever on the agenda

Mindful Magic: We explore the impact that Psychodermatology is having on the world of wellness

It’s no secret that wellness is big business. The now $5.6 trillion dollar industry is ever-evolving, with a new buzzword, trend, treatment, practice, or product entering the cultural sphere daily, often then exiting faster than you can say ‘Goop’. But, in this dynamic space, there are some developments that are truly worthy of your time, attention, and investment. One such practice that has proven its staying power is Psychodermatology (aka the mind-skin connection). Here, we explore its efficacy, uncovering how to improve our skin, and mind, in tandem.

Addressing the interaction between mind and skin, psychodermatology connects the two in a (somewhat complex) interplay between neuroendocrine and immune systems, with a focus on the nervous system, skin, and immunity. Dermatologists have long-stressed the need for a holistic approach when it comes to treating a host of skin conditions (from eczema to psoriasis, acne, and more — as well as premature signs of aging), but only now, after proving its undeniable efficacy, is heed being paid to mind/body health.

When you consider the myriad ways in which how we feel manifests itself physically — from anxiety-induced bloating to blushing when embarrassed and sweating when we’re nervous, the practice of psychodermatology (which seeks to treat skin concerns via a combined mental and physical health perspective) is incredibly logical. Particularly when we think of how the implications of stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest into more severe, long-term, skin-specific health conditions. This practice encourages the implementation of evidence-backed, positive lifestyle changes that can have both visible and non-visible effects, treating the body and mind to heal and clear our skin — and support our psyche in the process.

After seeing the results of this holistic approach first-hand, simply by implementing some more mindful practices into our daily routines (while we await the arrival of Psychodermatologists on our shores), we’re already huge proponents. Here, we round up a few ways to easily blend this new science into your everyday routine.

01. MIND OVER MATTER

The rise of the slow beauty movement saw not only an increased emphasis on evaluating the impact of beauty products (on not only our skin, but the planet, too), but the introduction of the principles of slow living into beauty and skincare routines. Psychodermatology takes this one step further, encouraging weaving the likes of meditation, journalling and mindful relaxation into daily life (inside or outside of your beauty and skincare routine) to cultivate calm.

02. A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

It’s no secret that breathwork has risen through the ranks in the wellness space, so potent is its impact. Mastering the art of breath can unlock both physical and mental health on an unprecedented scale, so it’s little wonder that its impact extends to the health of our skin, too. Implement a simple breathwork practice, such as box breathing, to feel (and see) the benefits.

03. REFINED RITUAL

Beyond weaving mindfulness practices into your skincare and beauty routines, go one step further and create a calm-inducing nighttime ritual. Incorporate gua sha, facial massage and oils to nourish the mind (while simultaneously improving the condition of our skin). It’s also amazing what taking time to wind down after a busy day will do for your beauty sleep.

04. GET MOVING

Exercising — even moderately, is guaranteed to help with overall wellbeing, but it also improves the function of the skin and improves our mental health. Getting your heart rate up and moving your body is always a great way of combating both skin and psychological stressors. Incorporate yoga into your workout routine, and you’ll tick the meditation box, too.

05. GOOD MOOD FOOD

Recently there has been growing research into the direct impact that positive nutrition can have on your mental health, with a number of foods that are great for an instant mood booster (as well as being excellent for overall health, and the health of your skin — win, win, and win). Fatty fish is one such powerhouse, alongside good quality dark chocolate, fermented foods such as kimchi, yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and sauerkraut, plus banana, nuts, seeds, oats and, perhaps best of all — coffee. In moderation, of course. It’s amazing what an impactful change being more mindful and considered with your diet can make to your overall health.

06. SCIENCE-BACKED STEPS

Beauty brands are tapping into the psychodermatology trend with a more scientific approach, developing products with ingredients that harness the benefits of nature’s most potent stress relievers, which have been found to help treat stress-related skin conditions by lowering cortisol levels in the skin. Watch this space, as we predict that in no time at all these products will dominate the beauty sphere.

Our Editors’ Picks
Mindful Magic
Peace Body Oil from EMBODYME
Christopher Jump Rope from louis vuitton
NOBLE PANACEA The Brilliant Glow Hydration Oil from net-a-porter
First Fix – Healthy Skin Hero from De Mamiel
Divine face oil from antipodes
Cosmetics 27 Gua Sha White Jade from Mecca
Mānuka Face Oil from Aotea

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Orsini Fine Jewellery’s crafted and curated pieces celebrate the art of craftsmanship and embody the essence of Italy

Nestled in the heart of Parnell, Orsini Fine Jewellery offers a shopping experience unmatched elsewhere, distinguished by the brand’s Italian-influenced atelier that transports those within to a far-flung place and different era entirely. Founded by Sarah Hutchings, Orsini brings the essence of Italian craftsmanship and design to the fore, offering a haven for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Founder of Orsini Fine Jewellery, Sarah Hutchings. Shot by Vinesh Kumaran

Over the past two decades, Hutchings has cultivated a deep connection with Italy, frequently travelling to the country to attend prestigious jewellery fairs and collaborating with renowned local jewellers. This connection is most evident in Orsini’s own, exquisite collection, which showcases the artistry and expertise of Italian master jewellers.

In addition to Orsini’s own designs, the atelier boasts an incredible edit of esteemed Italian brands such as Pomellato, Marco Bicego, Chimento, and Al Coro, offering unique, high-end pieces exclusive to Orsini in New Zealand.

Left: Capri Villa visited by Hutchings. Right: Pomellato Nudo Rings

But it’s not just the many striking pieces found in-store that are on offer here. Orsini also excels in providing bespoke services, allowing clients the freedom to co-create custom engagement rings and sentimental fine jewellery. Hutchings and her team of master jewellers meticulously bring these designs to life, delivering distinctive and timeless personalised keepsakes crafted with care and creativity.

And, no matter the design, brand, or occasion, the thoughtfully curated selection at Orsini is rooted in Italian culture and architecture, with nods to this influence evident across the jewellery itself, and the atelier that speaks to Italian architecture so beautifully.

Left: Pomellato Nudo Rings. Right: Capri Villa visited by Hutchings

In fact, the interior of Orsini’s award-winning atelier is as captivating as the pieces it houses. Designed by Auckland-based Kanat Studio, the boutique’s layout draws heavily on Italian aesthetics. Generous dado rails, archways, and creamy white walls evoke the iconic Villa San Michele in Anacapri, while the space, with its soft curves and high gloss finishes, subtly mirrors the craftsmanship of Venetian boatbuilders. Elements such as plastered plinths that hint at limestone and a watery green rug referencing coastal shallows further enliven the Italian ambience. The interior design not only enhances the shopping experience, but also reflects Hutching’s personal connection to Italy.

Orsini’s award-winning interior draws heavily on Italian aesthetics

Visiting Orsini’s atelier is more than just a shopping trip; it’s an immersion into the world of Italian elegance and craftsmanship. Orsini Fine Jewellery stands as a testament to the timeless allure of Italian design and the dedication to quality and craftsmanship. It’s a place where the past and present of fine jewellery converge, offering a unique and luxurious experience for discerning clients.

orsini.co.nz

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New & Noteworthy: This is everything on our radar this week

From Dior’s opulent new spa in an unexpected location to a notable collaboration and more, this is everything that has our attention this week.

Moooi’s Multicoloured Monster Basketball


The Multicoloured Monster Basketball, a limited-edition collectible by Marcel Wanders of Moooi for Spalding, is a joyous celebration of life and colour. With its vibrant hues, whimsical graphics, and high-performance functionality, this bespoke basketball merges the worlds of art and sport, symbolising boundless creativity and the exuberance of play.

Brand available locally at ECC.

Dior on Eastern & Oriental Express


The Eastern & Oriental Express, a luxury train in Southeast Asia, is a travelling memoir of a beguiling age. Among its 16 carriages is Dior’s first Southeast Asian spa — a sanctuary of tranquillity. The spa features two treatment cabins adorned with Dior’s iconic Toile de Jouy motif and handcrafted tropical wood, reflecting Southeast Asia’s natural beauty. Inside, shades of green, beige, and soft brown nod to the ever-changing landscapes just beyond the window.

Tronque’s Axilla Orb Natural Deodorant


The latest addition to Tronque’s pantheon of luxurious and efficacious bodycare products is a powerful natural deoderant that is as effective as it is easy on the eye. This luxurious solution, enriched with soothing plant oils and natural antimicrobial actives, instantly delivers moisture while neutralising odor with a clever blend of natural ingredients. Housed in refillable packaging with a stainless steel roller ball, Tronque’s innovative formula delivers results, leaving you fresh and dry, with no residue in its wake.

Bookworm


Releasing at the end of the month, Bookworm is a heartwarming new film made in New Zealand, which charts the journey of eleven-year-old Mildred as her life is turned upside down. When her mum is hospitalised, Mildred and her estranged father (a washed-up illusionist played by Elijah Wood), seek out the mythic Canterbury Panther. As they embark on a wild adventure, they discover more about each other and themselves than they could have anticipated, offering a captivating and moving exploration of life’s most fundamental relationships.

Apple’s TinyPod


TinyPod is a case that transforms your Apple Watch into a nostalgic iPod-like device. Removing the strap, you can hold and use it like a vintage MP3 player. Available with or without a scroll wheel, it aims to make your watch a more capable companion by offering a minimalist, distraction-free experience, perfect for curbing phone and social media habits.

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