Innholdsfortegnelse for Spring 2025 i Fashion Quarterly

There’s something in the air — sartorially speaking. We felt it last month as we marked the second year of the FQ Fashion Awards — our way of championing and celebrating the entire Aotearoa fashion ecosystem. What began as a response to a clear need for recognition has already grown into a night [see more on page 162] that brings together designers, makers, photographers, stylists, retailers, and fashion lovers in one powerful show of community spirit. It’s part of a bigger resurgence. From the revival of New Zealand Fashion Week [turn to page 56] to grassroots initiatives such as Āhua, there’s a renewed creative energy humming through the industry. And in this issue, we connect that momentum to the wider world — where fashion itself is in a state of…

ALICE HERALD The Wanaka-based brand is known for its luxury jewellery and bespoke diamond rings. aliceherald.com AMÉLIE Handmade bespoke knits, from classic jumpers to colourful balaclavas. amelieknits.com BEAU COOPS This stylish footwear brand blends masculine aesthetics with contemporary fashion. beaucoops.com BITTERMOON Kiwi fashion known for its playful prints, relaxed silhouettes, and inclusive sizing. bittermoon.co.nz BRONWYN Consciously crafted footwear with a sleek, minimalist aesthetic for the NZ woman bronwynfootwear.com BW36.174 This made-to-measure luxury fashion brand is designed in Auckland by Blair Wheeler. @bw36.174 CAITLIN CRISP Elegant, feminine, and timeless — Caitlin Crisp’s label offers beautifully curated pieces. caitlincrisp.com CLAUDIA LI Since 2015, Li has been pushing boundaries to wide acclaim for her inspired, original designs. claudia-li.com COMMONPLACE ESSENTIALS Thoughtfully considered sportswear-inspired garments and footwear designed for the everyday. commonplace.co.nz DEADLY PONIES…

For more than six decades, Graff has set the global standard in rare diamonds, exceptional craftsmanship, and high jewellery artistry. Now, in a landmark move, the revered British house brings its extraordinary world to New Zealand, and has opened its first-ever boutique in Auckland. Located on Queen Street — the city’s premier destination for luxury, and home to globally renowned jewellery maisons — the boutique marks a dazzling new chapter for high jewellery in Aotearoa. It’s the brand’s first foray into the New Zealand market, and Graff is no ordinary jewellery house. Known for creating some of the most important diamonds in history — from the 302.37-carat Graff Lesedi La Rona to the legendary Graff Pink (an exceptionally rare pink diamond, more than 20 carats) — Graff is a name…

In the Ruby boutique family, beauty isn’t just about how you look — it’s about how you live, how you care for yourself, and the quiet rituals that connect generations. Owner Christine Sharma and her daughters, Emily Miller-Sharma and Anna-Lise Sharma Lawson, work on their fashion empire alongside one another, but their most enduring collaboration might just be in the realm of shared wisdom, not only when it comes to fashion but skincare too. “The way to mum’s heart is to buy a new skincare product,” Anna-Lise laughs. Skincare, for Christine, has always been about hydration, protection, and embracing change. “As the skin ages, it needs different types of product,” she says, noting her commitment to high-quality formulas and regular facials. That respect for skin — and for the life…

Retinol has definitely earned its place in many beauty cabinets as a must-have in skincare. Hailed for its ability to refine skin texture, boost collagen, and fade pigmentation, it’s an easy solution for most women. But if you’ve reached a plateau with your results or struggled with irritation, it might be time to try something new. Enter retinal (short for retinaldehyde), the next-generation vitamin A derivative gaining major traction with dermatologists and beauty insiders alike. So what exactly sets retinal apart? Although both retinol and retinal must convert into retinoic acid (the active form that gets to work in your skin), retinal is just one step away — making it more potent, more efficient, and quicker to deliver results. Despite its strength, retinal is often better tolerated than retinol, especially…

You may not have heard of it yet, but kojic acid is the latest — and dare we say most underrated — brightening ingredient that is gaining traction in skincare for its ability to target pigmentation and even out skin tone. Until now, when it comes to glow-boosting products, we’ve tended to lean on the classics: vitamin C and niacinamide have long dominated the conversation. But kojic acid is quietly making its way into more and more formulations — and with good reason. If you’re battling stubborn dark spots, sun damage, or post-acne pigmentation, this is one ingredient you’ll want to keep firmly on your radar. Derived from fungi during the fermentation process of rice and other natural ingredients, kojic acid works by targeting tyrosinase — an enzyme responsible for…

Glowing skin, quiet confidence, and a fresh take on beauty — it’s the season of less is more. This spring, we’re embracing a gentler, more intuitive beauty routine — one that prioritises skin over coverage, and glow over glam. Where once the idea of going barefaced felt radical, it’s now a quiet revolution. A counter-response, perhaps, to the hyper-filtered faces that dominate our social feeds — or simply the growing desire for authenticity in how we show up, both online and in real life. What’s in place of heavy foundations and multi-step contour routines? Dewy, radiant skin that speaks volumes. But make no mistake: this isn’t about ditching beauty altogether; it’s redefining it. A new era of minimalism is emerging, rooted in skin confidence. That’s where brands such as BONNIE…

It took being in the depths of postpartum depression to finally sit in a chair and watch as an inky needle etched the Olympic rings into my forearm. Ten years had passed since I became an Olympian, but it took hitting rock bottom to feel the need to brand a permanent reminder that I’ve done hard things before, and I can do it again. You know what’s wild? Becoming an Olympian was hard but surviving womanhood has been harder. And I can say that, because I’ve done both. There’s no shiny medal for postpartum depression, no podium for chronic migraines, no tattoo for the kind of PMS that makes you want to scream at the top of your lungs when your coat gets caught on the door. There’s undeniable beauty…

Boho chic Boho is back, but not as you know it. Spring 2025’s iteration is still romantic, still free-spirited, but far more considered. At Coach, floral dresses, crochet knits, and classic suede shoulder bags set the tone. While at H&M, boho is revived through statement denim (think: flared jeans and western shirts), fringed accessories, and Penny Lane-esque blouses. Seasonal craft Texture tells the story at Wynn Hamlyn, where modern tailoring is softened through fluid silhouettes, subtle detailing, and refined craftsmanship. Sylvester’s striking Neo Noir-inspired capsule plays with mood and motif through zigzag knits, wild florals, and sharp suiting grounded in cinematic charm. Blue sky dining Longer days and lighter evenings invite a new kind of dining ritual — one that’s sun-soaked, sky-high, and full of flavour. Head to Queens for…

As the sun dipped below the horizon and dusk settled over the Waitematā Harbour, OKAHU became the backdrop for an evening of celebration highlighting the collective achievements of Aotearoa’s fashion industry. The setting was one of pure splendour as guests were greeted by a billowing installation of drapery that transformed the waterfront venue’s threshold into a scene of cinematic grandeur. But, of all the evening’s polished arrivals, none were quite as refined as our esteemed panel of judges, who made a suitably stylish entrance in a chauffeured fleet of vehicles courtesy of Lexus. Beyond the entryway, a carefully constructed world reminiscent of an editorial shoot awaited. Conceived and designed by artist and OKAHU director/owner Sarah Jayne Kavali (with furniture by Flock Events) the evening was a masterclass in immersive storytelling…

As spring’s light begins to thaw winter’s chill, there’s no better way to mark the shift in season than with a glass of something fresh and uplifting. And with that in mind, Rockburn’s Stolen Kiss Rosé is just the thing. Crafted from 100 per cent Central Otago fruit, and arriving in its muchanticipated limited release just in time for daylight savings (28 September), Stolen Kiss is more than a wine — it’s a whole mood. With its pale pink hue and fruit-forward profile, it’s designed to elevate any spring gathering, from long lunches to last-minute catch-ups, and everything in between. Made from Pinot Noir grapes, Stolen Kiss offers bright notes of strawberry and cherry finished with a subtle citrus lift. While it’s an easy favourite for the warm spring days,…

Hope Patterson PHOTOGRAPHER My greatest beauty philosophy is to be the most grateful person in every room — through every conversation, collaboration, phone call, email, and shoot. I truly believe gratitude makes my skin glow, my smile more effortless, and helps me carry myself with confidence and selfrespect. It brings me closer to flow state and invites playfulness into my work. I see nothing as a right and everything as a blessing, and that mindset shapes how I create, connect, and show up in the world. Yawynne Yem STYLIST Authenticity and vulnerability are timeless. It may feel like they’re not, in this strange digital age, where we’re all striving for every aspect of our lives to be manicured. But I’m learning to feel afraid and lost again in my craft.…

WYNN HAMLYN Wynn Hamlyn’s Pre-Fall ’25 collection marks a turning point — not just for the label, but for its creative evolution. For the first time in several seasons, designer Wynn Crawshaw has reintroduced menswear into the brand’s offering, and with it, a fresh lens through which to explore the boundaries of form, function, and identity. “I was missing the fun that comes with participating in the brand myself,” Crawshaw says. Rather than treating menswear as a siloed category, the collection explores the fluid territory where it intersects with womenswear, allowing the two to inform each other. “There are shared techniques that link the collections,” Crawshaw explains. “Twist details, deconstructed weaving, buttons that let the wearer experiment with styling. Regardless of which category a piece sits under, I anticipate many…

When it comes to style, few wear it with as much flair, fun, and fearless individuality as Danny Pato MNZM. The multi-award-winning hair stylist, co owner, and creative director behind D&M Hair Design doesn’t just create bold looks in the salon — his wardrobe tells a story of evolution and experimentation. From skate-inspired beginnings to a love affair with suiting in all its forms, Pato’s personal style is as layered and expressive as his career — proving that fashion is not just about what you wear it’s about how it makes you feel. Here, Pato tells us about his most treasured pieces, style influences, and why hair is just as important as your outfit. My style is playful, tailored, and edgy chameleon. It has evolved over the years. I used…

While it’s easy to be swept away by the ornate gowns and sculptural silhouettes of Haute Couture Week, the beauty looks are equally worthy of attention. Held biannually in Paris, the event is a stage for fashion’s most extravagant and imaginative visions, with maisons such as Schiaparelli, Chanel, and Balenciaga unveiling collections destined for red carpets and cultural archives. But behind every couture ensemble is a beauty moment — often bold, always expressive, and meticulously considered. Here, we spotlight some of our standout looks from the Fall/Winter 2025 shows. Full disclosure — not for the faint of heart. IRIDESCENT SKIN At Iris van Herpen, the line between body and art blurred once again. Ethereal, sculptural gowns seemed to float down the runway — and the beauty looks followed suit. Skin,…

If you’ve ever been curious about retinol but cautious about where to start, Lancôme has just delivered a game-changing innovation. Introducing Lancôme’s Rénergie C.R.x. Triple Serum Retinol, the brand’s most advanced formula yet — and one that’s likely to become a fast favourite of women around the world. Like its name suggests, this serum uses retinol. But what makes it so unique is its triple blend formulation. For the first time Lancôme has combined three potent actives — retinol, pure vitamin C, and peptides with ceramides. It’s this combination of ingredients that makes the serum unlike anything else on the market — this is due to the fact that it keeps each ingredient in its own separate chamber. Why? Well, certain ingredients (such as retinol and vitamin C) are notoriously…

For many, sun-soaked summers were once a rite of passage. The era of tanning oils, sunbeds, and chasing the perfect bronze glow left a lasting mark — both culturally and, in many cases, physically. Although the beauty world has since evolved to prioritise skincare, sunscreen, and protective habits, one of the most powerful tools for skin health often remains overlooked: the regular skin check. In New Zealand, where UV radiation levels are approximately 40 per cent higher than in comparable parts of the Northern Hemisphere, year-round skin protection and monitoring are essential, not seasonal. Enter MoleMap, New Zealand’s leading skin check and mole mapping service with treatment options now available through a trusted network of doctors. Despite growing awareness, there can still be hesitation around booking a MoleMap — particularly…

For Edward Hansen, scent is an experience, a memory, a mood. With a background in photography, interiors, and design, the founder of fragrance brand (S)MER brings a multidimensional approach to beauty, drawing inspiration from denim, emotion, and everyday moments. Here, Hansen shares how his journey led to scent, why fragrance should be genderless, and how confidence can start with a single spray. I dropped out of university to focus on my photography business, which transitioned from freelance work to opening a gallery space. From there, I found my passion for interior design and the way a room can make you feel. I found myself running a design team for Space Furniture, which was instrumental in my development… and where I noticed luxury interiors were looking beyond how a space looks, it…

It’s a cliché, but when I hit 40, I felt it — not dramatically, but in subtle shifts. There was the slightly looser skin, the beginnings of crepey lines around my eyes, and an overall sense that my face was… changing. So when I was offered the chance to try Sunekos, a new treatment on the rise globally, I didn’t hesitate. Offered at leading clinics such as The Face Place, Sunekos is an injectable skin treatment gaining serious traction overseas, reportedly with fans such as Demi Moore — the woman who defies ageing! The best part? Unlike traditional fillers, Sunekos doesn’t volumise. Instead, it focuses on regenerating the skin from within by stimulating collagen and elastin production — restoring glow, bounce, and firmness in a way that looks completely natural.…

Achieving your dream hair just got a whole lot faster (and shinier) thanks to ghd’s latest launch: the ghd chronos curve collection. With four state-of-the-art curling tools powered by ghd’s industry-leading chronos technology, this new range is designed to deliver high-definition results that last 24 hours, without compromising the health of your hair. Better yet, you can choose the curling tool to best suit your length and desired curl, whether it’s loose, lived-in waves or red-carpet glamour curls. So what makes this new range so good? Their (not so) secret is the fact that the range is engineered with advanced curl-responsive technology. If you’re wondering what that is, you’re not alone. Essentially, it means the tool intelligently ‘reads’ your hair and responds to the way you style it, creating consistent,…

It began with a single wedding and a creative instinct too strong to ignore. When Lucy Burke offered to help style a friend’s wedding, she didn’t expect it to spark a whole new career. But one event became another, and her knack for detail, refined aesthetic, and seamless execution grew into one of the country’s most in-demand event businesses: Lucy’s Events. I actually came from a fashion and costume design background, with no formal experience in events. The turning point came when a close friend was getting married and couldn’t find the style of hire pieces she envisioned. I saw a clear gap in the market, and from that moment, Lucy’s was born, starting at my dining room table and growing organically from one event to the next. One of the…

Simplicity lowers fees — again Simplicity, NZ’s nonprofit KiwiSaver manager, is about to cut fees across all its KiwiSaver from 0.25 per cent to 0.24 per cent, effective 1st September 2025. It’s the seventh time the provider has cut fees in the last seven years. MD Sam Stubbs is highly critical of KiwiSaver fees, saying “Too many fund managers are getting fat on the fees hard working Kiwis pay”. According to government-run Sorted.org’s Smart Investor tool, the average fee on a KiwiSaver Growth Fund is currently 1.05 per cent. Simplicity’s fee of 0.24 per cent will be less than a quarter of the industry average. On a $50,000 KiwiSaver balance, this fee difference would amount to a saving of more than $395 in just one year. Add time and compounding…

Cursed Daughters OYINKAN BRAITHWAITE From the author of My Sister, the Serial Killer comes a haunting tale of love, fate, and family curses. Eniiyi has always resembled her dead aunt, and her family believes she’s her reincarnation. When she saves a boy from drowning and falls in love, she must confront the dark legacy that she may be destined to repeat. Mother Mary Comes to Me ARUNDHATI ROY A searing, tender memoir of love, rebellion, and identity. Arundhati Roy traces her life, from childhood to the present, through the lens of her fierce, complex relationship with her mother. Intimate, sharp, and unexpectedly funny, it’s a fearless exploration of what shapes a writer, and a woman. Loved One AISHA MUHARRAR When Julia’s best friend Gabe dies unexpectedly, she sets off on…

Bag Designer of the Year WINNER Yu Mei FINALISTS Deadly Ponies Saben Content Creator of the Year WINNER Lauren Brodie FINALISTS Jess Molina Jungwon Jo Contribution to Māori Fashion WINNER Noa Blanket Co FINALISTS Amélie Shona Tawhiao Te Rangitu Netana Contribution to Pacific Fashion WINNER Ohn FINALISTS Lipo Tav Pacific Designer of the Year WINNER Claudia Li FINALISTS Commonplace Essentials Kiri Nathan Rory William Docherty Zambesi Fashion Retailer of the Year WINNER Ruby FINALISTS Space For The Shelter Spacefor Fashion Writer of the Year WINNER Emma Gleason FINALISTS Carolyn Enting Jessica-Belle Greer Footwear Designer of the Year WINNER Commonplace Essentials FINALISTS Deadly Ponies Kathryn Wilson Hair Stylist of the Year WINNER Danny Pato FINALISTS Kelly Manu Michael Beel Jewellery Designer of the Year WINNER Alice Herald FINALISTS Nick von K…

New Zealand Fashion Week From 25–30 August, Auckland’s waterfront becomes the epicentre of Kiwi style at NZFW 2025. Expect runway premieres from rising local talents and established labels, immersive talks on sustainability, and curated activations that celebrate Māori and Pacific design voices. As fashion takes centre stage, this edition promises creativity, community, and cultural conversation, all wrapped in a polished, joyful showcase of Aotearoa’s evolving aesthetic. Mark it in your diary, it’s where style, substance, and summer intersect in six unforgettable days. Feeling blue At the top of Ponsonby’s Franklin Road, Blue offers a rare blend of neighbourhood warmth and refined hospitality. By day, it’s a charming café dishing up fresh brioche buns and Scandi-style brunch plates; by night, a polished wine bar with thoughtfully curated pours and small‑plate fare…

For Sarah Lindsay — raised in London, now based in Aotearoa, and currently back in her hometown — these aren’t just recommendations, they’re rituals woven through memory, movement, and meaning. “There’s a rhythm to London that doesn’t show up on maps. Not the tourist tempo of selfies on the South Bank or queues for the Eye, but a quieter current, felt more than seen,” says Lindsay. “As someone who’s built a life around movement, memory, and soul work, the places I return to aren’t just spaces. They’re states of mind. Not secrets, but rituals.” This is her personal love letter to the city. TO EAT ANDREW EDMUNDS, SOHO To me, this is London. Candlelight, creaky floorboards, and a wine list that reads like a love letter. Quietly iconic. CAMPANIA &…

Slip behind the wheel of the Audi SQ5 and the world immediately feels calmer, quieter, more considered. This is a car that wears its refinement well — delivering that signature Audi balance of comfort and performance, which is instantly elevated. It’s everything a modern multitasker could want in a mid-size SUV. But naturally, we took it out for a spin to make sure. Hit the start button and the engine springs to life. The SQ5’s power is confident but never showy — merging onto the motorway is effortless, while navigating narrow inner-city streets feels almost intuitive. Its handling seamlessly hugs corners and absorbs bumps with grace. Translation: it’s just as at home cruising to a weekend getaway as it is darting between meetings or school pick-ups. Inside, it’s minimal in…

Landing a creative director role at a luxury fashion house is like playing musical chairs. There are fewer seats than contenders, and even if you nab one, the music soon restarts, and you’re left scrambling to keep it or swipe someone else’s. Things move fast at the top, with creative directors (CDs) shuffling between houses frequently and often dramatically, so breaking into the exclusive club is tough — particularly if you’re not pale and male. A lack of diversity in the upper rungs of the fashion ladder isn’t a debate; it’s a fact. A study by global fashion education platform 1 Granary found that nearly 90 per cent of top designers are men. And although no one is disputing the creative nous of these XY chromo some-wielders, the problem is…

Love letters drifting across the runway. Models striding through the hushed stacks of Auckland Central Library. A glass of wine hurled towards a front-row guest. And, once, a surprise cameo from Pamela Anderson. For the past 21 years, New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) has set the stage for the country’s most unforgettable fashion moments. This August, after years marked by pandemic disruptions, global economic uncertainty, and a 2024 cancellation that cast its future into doubt, the event returns in 2025 as a rebirth of sorts. When Dame Pieter Stewart founded NZFW in 2001, she gave the local fashion industry something it had long craved: a stage to celebrate its work on a larger scale than ever before. “The conception of NZFW was important because it gave the industry belief and…

Despite working at a fashion magazine, I’ve never quite cracked the code for perfectly applying a full face of make-up. My routine leans heavily on a few tried and true staples, with a slightly dialled-up version for evening (such as: a flick of eyeliner or a touch more eyeshadow). No matter how many tutorials I watch or brands I experiment with, I’ve never been able to achieve that elusive flawless finish. So, when I was invited to their head office to receive a makeover courtesy of Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics I jumped at the chance to refresh my look. With a legacy spanning more than 25 years, Youngblood is one of the original pioneers of clean beauty. The brand is known for highperformance formulations made from natural, pure, and ethically sourced…

Once portrayed as the tragic marque of ageing starlets and discarded first wives, society’s relationship with elective cosmetic surgery is shifting. The stigma is fading as we recognise that the scalpel has long been part of the anti-ageing arsenal. Bolstered by celebrity cosmetic confessions (shout-out to Kris and Kylie), women are becoming more empowered to right their selfperceived body wrongs, tackling concerns that have long plagued them mentally and physically. Functional post-birth and post-menopause makeovers are trending, but so too are nips and tucks among the young. Fueled by the unrealistic beauty expectations of social media, ‘Snapchat dysmorphia’ is on the rise, bringing with it some hefty, surgical side effects. Unsurprisingly, women are undertaking the bulk of the work. While men who choose to age naturally are praised for their…

We may not be ready to go quite as intensely as the tech billionaires when investing in ways to defy time and ageing, but beauty insiders are borrowing elements from the world of biohacking to take their skincare routines to the next level. In beauty, biohacking isn’t about pushing limits — it’s about working smarter. Using science-backed ingredients, clever tools, and targeted techniques, this approach is all about helping your skin function at its best. Think of it as the new frontier of skincare — rooted in restoring balance and optimising performance for your body’s largest organ. Here’s how to start: 1 PEPTIDES: CELL WHISPERERS Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act like little messengers for your skin, telling it to boost collagen, heal damage, and firm things…

In your defence Harnessing advanced Korean skincare technology and tailored for the harshness of our sun, Melitta GLOWGUARD ($62) delivers hydration and serious SPF50 protection in one. The ultra-lightweight, broad-spectrum formula glides on like silk, layering seamlessly under make-up. With four hours of UV defence, it primes, protects, and perfects, shielding your skin without leaving a trace of residue or white cast. Good press Laura Mercier’s Real Flawless Feathermatte Powder Foundation ($103, from MECCA) delivers weightless coverage that blurs imperfections and balances hydration with shine control, all while staying put through humidity, heat, and long summer days. Expect a soft-focus finish, longwear comfort, and skincare benefits over time. It’s your make-up-meets-skincare essential for a polished complexion in just one step. Mother’s milk Born from founder Hope Dworaczyk Smith’s search for…

We spend plenty of time curating our skincare routines — cleansers, serums, masks, and more. But when it comes to our scalps? Most of us don’t do much beyond choosing a shampoo that smells good. That’s all about to change thanks to Joico’s new Scalp Vitality range, launching this September. The innovative three-step system draws inspiration from cutting-edge skincare science. Designed to do more than simply just cleanse, it works to restore the delicate balance of your scalp’s barrier. And with winter’s dry air, harsh temperatures, and indoor heating leaving many of us with itchy, oily, or irritated scalps, Joico’s PETA-approved range couldn’t arrive at a better time. The collection includes three hero products: Refreshing Shampoo, Exfoliating Foaming Scrub, and Replenishing Essence —each powered by a blend of stinging nettle,…

Tell us a little about your background and career journey so far. I launched my namesake label in 2004 with what I now recognise was a mix of creative drive and youthful naivety. There was no detailed business plan — just a strong sense of what I wanted to make and the determination to build something of my own. After studying textile design in Wellington and fashion at Parsons in New York, I returned to Aotearoa and began creating garments that reflected my own sensibility: refined, functional, and feminine. Since then, the brand has grown steadily, evolving from a one-woman operation into a business with four stores, a central Auckland workroom, and a team of 35. Along the way, we’ve formed meaningful partnerships, collaborated with iconic brands, opened satellite locations, and…

In today’s TikTok lexicon, you’ve likely heard of the term “quiet quitting”: a phenomenon that refers to employees fulfilling the bare minimum that is required of them. Overtime? No, thank you. They may not have formally resigned, but mentally, these employees have already left the building. Now, another term is gaining momentum. “Quiet cracking” is the latest trend to pose a threat to workplace productivity, with Auckland-based career coach, Liz Barry, seeing it more and more among her clients. While some experts have noted the benefits of quiet quitting—such as healthy boundaries or improved work-life balance — quiet cracking can be more insidious. “It’s silent, an unravelling: people might look very high-functioning, even successful, but internally, they are exhausted, overwhelmed, and really disconnected from the work they’re doing,” Barry explains.…

As the days grow longer and the air turns warmer, spring invites a fresh approach to entertaining — relaxed, seasonal, and effortlessly stylish. Miss Polly’s Kitchen, known for her vibrant, fuss-free recipes, has teamed up with Appliances Online NZ to share her ultimate guide to hosting at home. From crowdpleasing dishes to the smart kitchen appliances that take the effort out of prep, this is your blueprint for spring gatherings done right. Set the mood: Table and ambience A thoughtfully styled table sets the tone. Layer a beautiful tablecloth with textured place mats and cloth napkins. Don’t be afraid to play with colour, print, or even a bit of a clash. Spring is the season to be bold. Lighting matters. With daylight stretching into the evening, lean into soft glows…

Congratulations on the release of your memoir. What made now the right time to share your story? I think I must live my life à la “time is just a construct,” in that there is not a single moment I am not sharing my stories. And I am very certain that at this point, after over a decade of blasting my every waking thought across every media outlet in the country (and, of course, social media), anyone and everyone who ‘follows’ me is praying that any minute now they will get some respite from my constant barrage of unsolicited tales. But my daughter is nearly two now, so this seems like a chic amount of time to wait before releasing a book about my pregnancy, postpartum experience, and first year…

Sharp tailoring, sculptural silhouettes, and emotive storytelling have become hallmarks of Claudia Li’s designs, and it’s this distinctive approach that has made her one of the New Zealand fashion industry’s most compelling talents. Her portfolio spans New York Fashion Week and the halls of the Met — and now she’s added another accolade to her name: FQ’s Designer of the Year for 2025. Born in China and raised in New Zealand by an art dealer father and opera singer mother, Li’s world view came into focus through artists’ eyes. After completing a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Li went on to study at Central Saint Martins in London and completed her MFA at Parsons School of Design in New York. She spent her early career working under some of the most…

Merlot moments Ease the transition from winter’s deeper palettes with rich burgundy and lush purples. These shades are especially suited to intimate spaces: use Resene Burgundy in a dining room to create a cocooning, elegant atmosphere, or introduce Resene Geronimo on cabinetry or feature walls for a bold, contemporary edge. Balance the richness with warm neutrals, textured linens, and brass accents for a layered, considered look. Cherry on top Add a touch of opulence to your interiors with a dash of red. Be it a vivid punch of Resene Vibe or the bold intensity of Resene Smashing, these hues instantly energise a space. Offset with soft pinks for a romantic contrast that feels fresh, modern, and perfectly suited to the shift into spring.…

Ngahuia Williams: “The journey there becomes a moment to reflect and recalibrate. Winding along the Piha Road is like gently unravelling the twine of the mind, embraced on either side by the native forests of the Waitākere Ranges. There’s something grounding about being cocooned in the quiet hum of the Audi — the way it moves with such fluidity, it feels less like driving and more like gliding. The panoramic roof opened to the canopy of greenery above, and for a moment it felt like the car and I were in sync. It gave me space to think clearly about the story I wanted to tell. By the time I arrived, I felt calm, focused, and creatively open — ready to capture what I had felt along the way.” The…

Wild luxury One&Only Mandarina is a rare kind of luxury that meets you where you are and leaves you more revitalised than ever. Nestled between the lush rainforests of the Emerald Mountains and the pristine shores of Nayarit’s untamed Pacific coast, this secluded sanctuary invites stillness, exploration, and a spiritual renewal. From clifftop villas and treetop hideaways to jungle treks teeming with wildlife, Ayurvedic spa rituals, Tata Harper’s multisensory wellness journey, and world-class dining beneath starlit skies, it’s all here. Whether surfing, horseback riding, or soaking in your private pool, Mandarina is a place to reconnect — with nature, culture, and yourself. Choose your adventure A dress code that calls for refined relaxation and exploration in equal measure.…