Lunar New Year is the most important event on the Chinese cultural calendar and is celebrated by most Asian countries as well as those with large Asian communities. This year, the celebrations will usher in the year of the snake — meaning a year of transformation could be on the way. And what better time than now to embrace a transformation of your very own, overhauling your wardrobe with the raft of striking collections many of the designers are turning out to celebrate the milestone.
From the unveiling of Tiffany & Co.’s themed release to Bulgari’s bespoke collection celebrating both the Lunar New Year and 75 years of Serpenti, a collectible edit from Gucci boasting snake motifs and bespoke prints, and much more sure to inspire indulgence, these are the must-have pieces to shop now.
Founded by our summer issue coverstar Maddison Brown and her sister, Allyson Popovic, Outside Beauty & Skincare is making waves in the beauty industry with its innovative, eco-conscious approach to sun protection.
Reflecting the sisters’ collective passion for sustainability, SPF, and high-performance skincare, Outside Beauty & Skincare was designed for life under the Australian sun. Inspired to create the brand after noticing a lack of elevated, environmentally-conscious SPF products that catered to a diverse range of skin types, the sisters set out to bridge this gap, creating a range of efficacious products that are both luxurious and sustainable.
Every product in the collection, from the SPF 50+ Mineral Primer to the lip and cheek tints, reflects this ethos, combining beauty and practicality, and, most fundamentally — protecting against the harsh Australian sun.
Maddison Brown, Outside beauty & Skincare Co-Founder, Actress, and Model
“Sunscreen is the most important preventative product that you can use in your routine. You May as well throw out all your fancy creams if you’re not using sunscreen.”
Maddison Brown, Outside beauty & Skincare Co-Founder, Actress, and Model
The brand offers a range of SPF products that are not only cruelty-free but also incorporate native Australian botanicals like Kakadu plum, cocoa butter, and raspberry seed oil. These ingredients protect the skin from Australia’s harsh climate while delivering nourishing, antioxidant-rich skincare, making the products perfect for sensitive skin.
In addition to offering effective sun protection, the brand is committed to sustainability. A proud member of 1% for the Planet, Outside Beauty & Skincare donates a portion of sales to environmental causes and plants a tree for every purchase. The brand’s packaging is also thoughtfully designed, using recyclable materials where possible and offering a recycling program for plastic components.
Outside Beauty & Skincare is more than just a beauty brand; it’s a movement towards responsible beauty, setting new standards for eco-friendly SPF in Australia and beyond. With its thoughtful formulations and dedication to the environment, it’s a brand that’s transforming our sun protection habits into an easy daily ritual.
Where Light Finds Us, Gucci’s Spring Summer 2025 campaign, captures a moment where light reveals the unseen, and connection takes center stage. Conceptualised by Creative Director Sabato De Sarno and directed by Xavier Dolan, the campaign features actors Yara Shahidi and George MacKay as two souls drawn together in spaces where sunlight transforms everyday settings into something extraordinary.
Through Dolan’s lens, the collection seamlessly integrates into the intimate story, showcasing lightweight fabrics, structured silhouettes, and luminous hues paired with unexpected accents. At the heart of the visual narrative is the reimagined Bamboo 1947 bag — a piece that reflects Gucci’s ability to honour its storied past while looking toward the future.
The campaign highlights the Maison’s commitment to celebrating the beauty of authentic moments, where light becomes a powerful symbol of vulnerability and connection. De Sarno explains, “Gucci Spring Summer 2025 is a celebration of humanity in its most vivid and tender forms. This campaign is not just about fashion — it’s an ode to the fleeting, extraordinary moments that define what it means to be human.”
Dolan’s direction invites viewers to pause and immerse themselves in the reflective narrative, “Here are 60 seconds to breathe in, breathe out, see a scarf billow in the breeze, take in some dust flowing through the air, some warmth,” he says. Where Light Finds Us is not just a celebration of exceptional design, but an invitation to appreciate the quiet beauty in everyday experiences, transforming the ordinary into something that is anything but.
When it comes to weekend escapism, Waiheke Island is one of the easiest places to go from Auckland City. With elevated restaurants, cafes and bars befitting its unofficial nickname as the ‘Isle of Wine’, Waiheke has no shortage of exceptional eateries to explore. Here, we round up all the best places to wine, dine and be merry on the 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.
As the new kid on the block, 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 recent refurbishment a few years ago, 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 Farley’s (or simply ‘Charlie’s’ to some) 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.
On the aforementioned Onetangi promenade, Three Seven Two 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) — Three Seven Two 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.
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.
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. Nextdoor, 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 14 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, savour, 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 eight years ago, and — three 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.
Nestled in the heart of Oneroa, this award-winning gourmet burger bar is a Waiheke Island gem. Renowned for satisfying every palate, from carnivores to vegans, Too Fat Buns offer mouthwatering creations like the indulgent ‘Man Bun’ with a prime beef patty, streaky bacon, egg, and all the trimmings, and the flavourful ‘Vegetarian Bun’ centred around a tasty pumpkin, feta, and quinoa patty. Hits the spot every time.
Fenice, a charming Italian eatery in the heart of Waiheke’s Oneroa Village (just five minutes from the beach and ferry), invites you to savour breakfast, lunch, drinks, and dinner. With a flower-adorned entrance, cosy roaring fire, and prime village location, it’s the perfect for a casual meal at any time, and the locals love it.
The Chinese New Year (also known as the Lunar New Year) ushers in new beginnings over 15 days of celebration, this year beginning on February 29th. Marking the transition between zodiac signs, 2025 is set to be the Year of the Snake — a creature known for it’s wise and intuitive energy. Heralding wisdom and transformation, the Year of the Snake offers opportunities for personal growth and change.
Here in Auckland, as the epicentre of cultural cuisine, the SkyCity precinct is paying tribute to the festive season, marking the occasion with themed set menus, tempting specials, bespoke menu items and more. So, toast to new beginnings and enjoy a celebratory feast at one of the city’s top dining destinations — rounded up below.
Explore traditional signature dishes from regional provinces of China with Huami’s Nectar menu for $109 per person, or bring the family together and experience their delicious sharing style festive menus for $998 (5-7 people) or $1,398 (8-12 people). Available on 28th & 29th January for dinner bookings only. 5.30—9pm. Book your table here.
From fresh sashimi and New Zealand crayfish, to a special Tokyo platter to share, discover the finest Japanese cuisine this Lunar New Year and celebrate with family and friends. On January 29th, Masu will be showcasing a bespoke Lunar New Year Tokyo Platter for one night only. Book your table here.
Curated by Michael Meredith, explore Pacific flavours this Lunar New Year at Metita, with a six-course tasting menu including a taro tartlet, steamed snapper and kingfish with charred mandarin, for $139 per person. Available 20th January — 8th February. Book your table here.
At Cassia this Lunar New Year you’ll discover for a modern feast of Indian cuisine. Designed to be shared, choose a selection of your favourite dishes from the a la carte menu, including the Hawke’s Bay lamb chops, and the Delhi Duck with Makhani sauce and lychee, and celebrate the new year in satisfying style. Book your table here.
Showcasing the best of New Zealand produce, discover The Grill’s sharing style Lunar Menu, featuring the iconic Seafood Tower, Study of Wagyu, and more. Designed to be shared amongst two, it’s the perfect time to bring together family and friends to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Available 20th January — 8th February. Book your table here.
Celebrate Lunar New Year with quintessential Kiwi kai at Depot. Indulge in dishes that showcase fresh, in-season seafood, expertly cooked meats, and locally sourced produce meant for sharing with friends. Book your table here.
Running on Fridays and Saturdays from 24th January — 1st February between 3—9pm, SkyCity’s Lunar New Year Street Food Market invites us to celebrate the end of the Year of the Dragon and the arrival of the Year of the Snake with unforgettable flavours, festivities, and fun. With a wide selection of food stalls offering everything from savoury delights to sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy every craving, with a DJ ensuring a lively vibe.
A short hour north of the city is perhaps one of the country’s most intriguing art galleries, hidden in plain sight on working pastures. Gibbs Farm is an often-undiscovered collection of sculptural art that is usually open to the public by appointment only, meaning that a visit to this curation of significant works is not something many of us get the chance to do. That said, in the name of fundraising for the McCahon House Trust, Gibbs Farm will be once again opening for a day this February, offering a rare opportunity to view the works in person. And given the popularity of previous fundraisers for the artistic trust, you’ll want to book your tickets, stat.
Dismemberment, Site 1 by Anish Kapoor.
After nearly 20 years of curation and creation, Gibbs Farm on the Kaipara harbour is home to many international and New Zealand leading artists. The nature of these works is reflected in the fact that they are commissioned, not simply purchased, allowing the artist to create something that directly responds to its rugged coastal environment. In this alone, it serves as a place for artistic talents to flourish and had resulted in a collection of truly spectacular pieces.
Red Cloud Confrontation in Landscape by Leon van den Eijkel.
Gibbs Farm very generously supports organisations like McCahon House by opening their gates for fundraisers. Set in the former home of Colin McCahon, the Titirangi address is home to a thriving, rotating artist residency. It is inherent that in supporting the McCahon House Trust, we are supporting the next generation of local talent. Here, both art and artists in our country are given the opportunity to flourish, so up-and-coming talent may one day reach the calibre of McCahon’s enduring vision.
Jacob’s Ladder by Gerry Judah.
Seeking to raise all-important funds for this artistic endeavour, the Gibbs Farm visit is a ticketed event, with all proceeds going towards the Trust’s operational costs and extensive education and public programmes. As a non-profit charitable organisation, McCahon House Trust relies on grants, donations, and fundraising initiatives, just like this one. The Gibbs Farm visit is one of their more significant fundraising drives.
This year’s fundraiser will take place on Sunday, 16th February 2025 between 10am and 2pm, and we know that tickets are already highly coveted. Always a popular event, this visit promises new curiosities and excitement, alongside a healthy dose of artistic inspiration. Tickets are essential and can be purchased here.
This February, Kelmarna Farm Dinners return for their seventh year, offering a series of enchanting outdoor dining experiences. For those not familiar with the destination, the Kelmarna Organic Gardens in Herne Bay were established in 1981, and have run as a working model of sustainability in an urban setting since.
This February, seven nights of culinary artistry will see some of Tāmaki Makaurau’s most celebrated chefs — along with a special out-of-town guest — create multi-course menus at the enchanting venue, inspired by the farm’s seasonal produce. Guests will dine at communal tables al fresco, surrounded by the very trees, plants, and flowers that provide the ingredients for their meals.
The series opens with long-time supporter of the farm, Tom Hishon (Kingi, Daily Bread) and Giulio Sturla (Mapu), followed by Giulio’s solo night. Plabita Florence (Forest) continues the tradition with a menu highlighting rare farm ingredients. Newcomers include Georgia van Prehn (Mr Morris) and Michael Hanna (Project Hydrosol), as well as Jono Thevenard (Pici, Ooh-Fa) and Kia Kanuta (ex-Ada), who will present a modern Māori-inspired hangi.
Proceeds from the series will support Kelmarna’s community-focused educational and therapeutic initiatives, with 50% of proceeds from Farm Dinners going straight to the charitable trust.
Kelmarna Farm Dinners will run over seven nights in February on the following dates: Friday 14th: Giulio Sturla and Tom Hishon (6—9pm, four courses) Saturday 15th: Giulio Sturla (6—9pm, four courses) Sunday 16th: Plabita Florence (5pm—9pm, five courses) Tuesday 18th & Wednesday 19th: Georgia van Prehn (6pm—9pm, four courses) Thursday 20th & Friday 21st: Jono Thevenard and Kia Kanuta (6—9pm, hangi. Format TBC)
Waving goodbye to the summer holidays is never fun, but getting back into the swing of things does present an opportunity to update your work wardrobe. And luckily, Max Mara has opened the doors to a new Auckland boutique just in time for our return to the office. Known for timeless, elegant, and decidedly cool pieces that tow the perfect line between work and play, Max Mara is a one-stop-shop when it comes to office-appropriate wares.
From sleek tailoring to crisp shirting to subtle accessories and bags that fit all the essentials, we have pulled our favourite pieces from Max Mara to see you back to the office in style. Shop our essential edit below.
Taking inspiration from Soho House’s eclectic members clubs around the world, the Soho Home outdoor collection allows you to transform your own outdoor space into an idyllic private escape.
Soho Home Celia Outdoor Loungers, Tuuci Octagonal Parasol and Rome House Rubber Ring
Just as a sumptuous sofa or statement-making table has the ability to elevate your interiors, luxurious, design-led furnishings can transform your outdoor living spaces into alluring oases. As summer brings with it longer days and warmer nights, our outdoor areas are being pulled into focus — ripe for redecoration.
Soho Home Lisson Pair of Outdoor Stacking Dining Chairs and Reti Dining Table
Whether a full exterior overhaul is on the cards, or you’re simply looking for a seasonal update, Soho House’s interiors venture, Soho Home, invites those who have long-admired the interiors of the Houses around the globe to bring the functional yet luxurious designs into their own personal sanctuaries. The curated edit of furnishings conjures the relaxed yet elevated, social living that has become synonymous with the global member’s clubs, and offers a series of pieces that are not only practical and chic, but as unique as the venues themselves.
“Soho Home’s outdoor range will turn your backyard into a luxurious resort for the season ahead.”
Soho Home Gaspard Outdoor Sofa
From what is perhaps the most recognisable item — a candy-striped cabana sun lounger seen poolside at many of Soho House’s most famous clubs, to impeccably-designed couches that could just as easily find a place within the home as outside of it, to bold armchairs, dining chairs in plush fabrics, iconic, 70s-inspired parasols, and elevated floaties that alone have the ability to transform a pool area, Soho Home’s outdoor range will turn your backyard into a luxurious resort for the season ahead.
Soho Home Dalmati Outdoor Dining Table and Lia Low Dining Chairs
Whatever open-air living space you have at your disposal, Soho Home’s effortlessly elevated outdoor edit — which blends timeless design with contemporary silhouettes and fabrics, is sure to complement any configuration, enhancing the experience of home.
When it comes to finding the ideal tropical escape, there’s one island that delivers the trifecta; private, pristine and perfect. Nestled amidst the turquoise waters of Fiji’s Yasawa Islands, Vomo Island Resort is a private paradise that offers an incredible blend of luxury, tranquillity, and adventure. Having captivated travellers from around the world with its understated elegance and genuine hospitality, it comes as no surprise that it was recently voted Fiji’s Best Luxury Resort at the Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards.
Beachfront villa with pool at Vomo
The private island, set upon 255 acres, offers an unparalleled sense of space and tranquillity, and is a haven for those seeking a secluded and intimate getaway among stretches of powdery white sand and breathtaking turquoise waters. The resort features a collection of stylish accommodations, from beachfront and hillside villas to large private homes for extended groups of friends and family, with breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean. For the ultimate in luxury, the resort’s six high-end multi-bedroom beachfront residences provide a private oasis complete with butler service and personalised amenities.
Private villa at Vomo
Vomo’s culinary offerings are equally as impressive. Two restaurants, The Rocks and Vuda Reef, showcase the best of Fijian and international cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavours. From casual beachfront dining to gourmet fine dining, Vomo has something to satisfy every palate.
The Vuda Reef Restaurant at Vomo
Beyond its luxurious amenities, Vomo offers a wide range of activities for guests to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone. An idyllic day at Vomo can include exploring the island’s hiking trails, taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment. For those partial to a more active experience, there is also a wide variety of water sports, including snorkelling, diving, and kayaking.
Snorkeling at Vomo
A dream destination for families, Vomo’s Kids Village is enjoyed by children of all ages. With activities, games, and a dedicated children’s chef, parents are left to relax and unwind, knowing that the kids are having as much fun as they are.
With the children occupied, the adults-only oasis — the Rocks Beach Club, which features a second swimming pool, white cabanas, and aqua floating chairs, is the place to be, and the ideal spot to relax and enjoy the stunning South Pacific sunsets.
With an active commitment to sustainability, the island has implemented substantial eco-friendly initiatives including solar power, water conservation, and organic farming. The recent launch of the Counting Coral Sculptural Coral Gene Bank at Vomo Island is another important step towards their commitment to preserving Fiji’s marine ecosystems for generations to come. This innovative project symbolises a commitment to the restoration and preservation of Fiji’s coral ecosystems — a crucial part of Fiji’s marine environment.
With its unique blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation, Vomo is the perfect destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable tropical island experience. Whether you’re a couple, a family, or a group of friends, Vomo is guaranteed to be a truly memorable escape for anyone lucky enough to visit.
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