Mayfair isn’t just the most desirable plot of land on the Monopoly board, it’s also the go-to place for the ritziest cocktail bar on the planet. We’ve mentioned it in passing before, but we really must pay the Connaught Bar some closer attention. It’s consistently named the best cocktail bar in the world, and it […]
Our latest cocktail we’d like to bring you is the Bee’s Knees, and that’s not just a turn of phrase, that’s its name. We recommend mixing this particular summer refresher with Tanqueray Rangpur Lime Distilled Gin, which blends the exotic Rangpur lime with ginger and bay leaves for a spectacularly fresh flavour. The unique taste […]
Beating more than 600 other gins, New Zealand gin Scapegrace Gold has been named the best London dry gin in the world at the International Wine and Spirits 2018 Competition. Founded only four years ago by three Auckland-based mates, Scapegrace is now stocked in 35 countries around the world. If you’re looking for a refreshing […]
Finding things to do in town can be hard in the winter. But getting the courage up to leave the house can be worth it when the place you’re going feels like a home away from home. The Cordis Auckland has a number of events running in its bars, restaurants and spas. Let’s take a […]
Does anything create the illusion of ‘at-home’ luxury quite like the home bar? Sure, maybe we can’t afford the big fancy swimming pool out back or the massive home theater system, but who needs that stuff when we can pour ourselves a cocktail on a Wednesday night and drink it from a fancy crystal glass! […]
We’ve been showcasing a lot of cocktails for you to try at home recently, but this Pomegranate Sgroppino is for those that truly want to impress. Sgroppino translates to “to untie” in Italian, meaning to untie your stomach after a meal – the perfect digestivo! You’re going to look like one classy son of a […]
This weather has been ridiculously hot. Only the truly masochistic are sleeping with all their covers on. Our household has been going gangbusters on the gin and tonics just to cope. It really is the most refreshing beverage for this kind of weather. But variety is the spice of life, so maybe mixing it up […]
Now that we’re coming out of lockdowns, it’s time to start brushing up your hosting game. A true host has everything on hand to make brilliant cocktails, and this Tom Collins is the third and final one we have for you today. You can find the rest here. All of the cocktails have been using […]
We teamed up with Tanqueray to bring you a selection of cocktails to choose from, perfect for this weather. Each of the cocktails uses Tanqueray No.10 Gin, which has set the standard as the first ultra-premium gin. It’s also the only Gin and only white spirit that has been awarded a place in the Hall […]
Fine dining establishment, The Grove, is more than just a restaurant, it is the crown jewel amongst Auckland’s superb culinary scene. Headed by owner, Michael Dearth, alongside Head Chef, Ryan Moore and Food & Beverage Director, Andrea Martinisi, The Grove was recently named 15th in the world on TripAdvisor’s 2021 Travellers’ Choice “Best of the […]
The Grove is a dining institution in Auckland. Established in 2004 by ex-pat American Michael Dearth, The Grove offers a French-inspired, technique-driven degustation menu featuring New Zealand produce alongside high end bar snacks in a well-appointed wine and cocktail bar. Immensely popular with both Kiwis and international travelers alike, The Grove has become a “must-go” […]
Ernest Hemingway and President Kennedy’s favourite tipple, the Daiquiri enjoyed great popularity during the early part of the 20th century. The cocktail itself was developed during the Spanish-American War of 1898 largely due to Americans’ increased exposure to the rums of Cuba, until then under Spanish rule. The drink grew in popularity under Roosevelt’s presidency […]
It was a dark and stormy night; the rain fell in torrents—except at occasional intervals, when it was checked by a violent gust of wind which swept up the streets (for it is in London that our scene lies), rattling along the housetops, and fiercely agitating the scanty flame of the lamps that struggled against […]
Bourbon, America’s famous native spirit, pours $8.6 billion from their charred oak barrels into its birth state, Kentucky. Supplying 95% of the world’s bourbon and generating over $1 billion in annual salaries, this tasty industry is an economic powerhouse for the Bluegrass State. However, like anything else in a competitive industry, not all bourbon is […]
Summer is on the horizon and daylight savings has given us more daylight in the afternoons to play with, so brush all that debris off the BBQ and re-learn the fine art of finding a weekend that all your mates have free. Now you could go with your standard beer but why not fully capitalise […]
Are you ready for the best introduction to Matthew McConaughey’s Longbranch Whiskey he made in collaboration with Wild Turkey? Experience a small piece of the deep south from tonight till Sunday 28th of April at Shed 22 in the waterfront bar Coley & Punch. Coley & Punch mixologist, Katie Cramphorn, has developed a series of […]
Aviation Gin has gone into partnership with Virgin Atlantic to let this flavourful beverage be enjoyed in the sky. Owned by American actor, Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool), Aviation is the world’s highest rated gin. Softer and smooth – the drink is definitely a must-try for gin enthusiasts. To celebrate the joining of the two marque brands, […]
A glass of Tanqueray has become our household’s evening treat to stave off these muggy evenings. These recipes I’ve been bringing to you all have made me the defacto gin expert, and you know what, I’m going to own that. My wife is partial to her Tanqueray No.10 after discovering Gin shortly before getting pregnant. […]
Thursday 7 September 2023 Shed 10, Auckland Will AI Kill Your Business Strategy? In the late 1990’s we underestimated the power of the internet. Will we make the same mistake with AI & Machine Learning? Within this decade alone, AI and Machine Learning technologies are expected to: -Radically alter companies existing strategic plans. -Significantly change […]
With Spring well and truly upon us, it’s time to delve into what we can expect from the months ahead. Luckily, there appears a veritable cultural feast that awaits us over the next few weeks. We’ve rounded up all the cultural happenings that deserve to be on your radar right now. SYNTHONY No.1 […]
Thursday 7 September 2023 Shed 10, Auckland Will AI Kill Your Business Strategy? In the late 1990’s we underestimated the power of the internet. Will we make the same mistake with AI & Machine Learning? Within this decade alone, AI and Machine Learning technologies are expected to: -Radically alter companies existing strategic plans. -Significantly change […]
Time flies! It seems like just yesterday the Auckland exhibition of the world’s greatest pieces of photojournalism and documentary photography was being gracing our shores. But it was 2019, and we were but innocent lambs with no knowledge of what a “red light system” was in relation to a pandemic. Honestly, judging by my commute […]
In the world of travel, there exists a secret society. An organisation of discerning jet-setters who are privy to a hush-hush haven that transcends the typical hotel experience. We’re not talking about the Illuminati, or the Bilderberg group, nor the Freemasons; this isn’t about nefarious world domination, rather, it’s a far more agreeable entity – […]
April is fast approaching. It’s time to sort out your date nights, your weekends, and your social calendar in general. By the end of the month you’re going to be twice as cultured as you are now. Or at the very least, finally know the difference between all these IPA’s the microbrewers love so much. […]
There’s been a bit of a buzz about Cordis Auckland these days, and it’s not just because of its stunning views and impeccable service or the rooftop bees for that matter – well actually partially but we will touch on that later. For now, the big news is the fact that the luxury hotel has […]
There are acquaintances, friends, good friends and BFFs – but all of them pale in comparison with ‘beautiful friendships’. These are usually forged over several drinks and sometimes even involve some form of collusion in concealing a crime – although this is not mandatory! The most famous example of such a bond comes from the […]
Over the years, Giorgio Armani has cemented himself at a kind of god-tier level within the fashion world. The Italian fashion designer, who is best known for his eponymous brand and its signature sleek, understated aesthetic was born in Piacenza, Italy in 1934, Armani began his career as a window dresser and eventually worked his […]
Award-winning Milan-based Officina Armare have recently released an interior proposal that has has us all adding it to the top of our private jet wishlist. The proposal, suited to the Bombardier Global 6000, is utterly awesome. Priced at USD$38 million and owned by “a Brazilian client”, the Bombardier Global 6000 was created by Bombardier Aviation. […]
If you want to get a bunch of people upset about anything, there are two sure fire ways to do it. The first is to mention a ludicrous amount of tax money going into a new piece of public art. people hate it when pot hole money gets turned into an abstract cement swirl representing […]
A very, very lazy review of the amazing Pinnacle Tower at Cordis Auckland. Yes, the world is opening up and the Tourism gods have opened the gates. I love travelling as much as the next Airpoints member, but I had begun to notice over the last few international jaunts just how tiring the concept of […]
Okay, so we all know that the Cordis Hotel Auckland is one of the premier places to stay if you are looking for somewhere to stay in Auckland. But this isn’t the only string to its bow. Not only is the new Pinnacle Tower and its art collection a destination in its own right, but […]
We share our office with a highly respected business consultant. Unfortunately for those around us, him and I will often pontificate during lunch about the current hurdles of modern business and emerging management theories. It’s all very interesting, believe me. Especially when the A3 sheets of paper come out to display a maze of business […]
When was the last time you had after-party, after dinner cocktails with friends? For me it was… Friday, but that was at home. That was lacking a little mystique and socialising. Johnnie Walker is bringing the party back to the Auckland this May with two huge exclusive events. Tickets aren’t for sale, but you still […]
The light shines brighter at the edges. It keeps us sharp, at the edge, where we gotta be. At least it did for Al Pacino in Heat, you can add your own finger snaps. It certainly does for cities too as the 21st century has seen property prices rise so high in the centres that […]
Look, we all know taste is subjective, but at the end of the day, there’s something to be said for a consensus pick. Otherwise, why would we have awards in the first place? Heck, why on Earth did the Greek invent democracy if not to say we trust the verdict of the majority?! OK sure, […]
We appear to be having all the weather of the Mediterranean right now with none of the sites. At the very least we can bring the taste of the Mediterranean to us. Today’s cocktail is a classic Negroni taking advantage of the Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla Distilled Gin. It’s a zesty, fruitful gin, offering a […]
If you’re lucky enough to be a globe trotter at the moment, take a moment to stop in at the best bars for the best drinks in the galaxy. Connaught Bar London, UK Consistently rated the best bar in Europe as well as one of the best bars in the world, the Connaught is something […]
Refreshing, versatile, and easy to make. It’s no surprise the Margarita is one of the world’s favourite cocktails. Created in 1948 by Margaret Sames, the original recipe is simple and has remained unchanged since the beginning: Cointreau, tequila blanco, fresh lime juice, and a salt rim. In fact, Cointreau and the Margarita are so inseparable […]
While we are lucky to live in a nation that has some fantastic road tripping routes within our borders, the reality is that it’s a big wide world out there, with a heck of a lot worth exploring beyond our shores. Sure, some like to spend their holidays lounging on quaint beaches and sipping on […]
As our new confusing traffic light system gets ever less crimson, everyone’s starting to get out more. Those of us content to stay put are still venturing out, and going to the cinemas and getting back to some semblance of the before-times. Perhaps the bastion of these happier days is Bond, who’s latest film we’re […]
While we are lucky to live in a nation that has some fantastic road tripping routes within our borders, the reality is that it’s a big wide world out there, with a heck of a lot worth exploring beyond our shores. Sure, some like to spend their holidays lounging on quaint beaches and sipping on […]
Founder and Managing Director of Chooice NZ, Sarah Colcord, turned the first 2020 lockdown into an opportunity to help herself and thousands of other New Zealanders create new businesses, provide for their families and support local with her Facebook group and online marketplace Chooice NZ (originally conceived as New Zealand Made Products). The Facebook group […]
Every year, teams of mates get together to challenge the Oxfam Trailwalker and push themselves to their limits while taking in the beautiful scenery of the Taranaki countryside. The goal is to walk either 50km or 100km and get the whole team across the line in less than 36 hours. Along the way, the teams […]
Fine dining establishment, The Grove, is more than just a restaurant, it is the crown jewel amongst Auckland’s superb culinary scene. Headed by owner, Michael Dearth, alongside Head Chef, Ryan Moore and Food & Beverage Director, Andrea Martinisi, The Grove was recently named 15th in the world on TripAdvisor’s 2021 Travellers’ Choice “Best of the […]
If in the hopefully not-so-distant future the world has returned to normal and you find yourself touring Portugal, be sure to pass through The Douro Valley. They started making grapes into wine there at about the same time Jesus was turning water into wine. In particular, be sure to tour Taylor’s famous Port cellars in […]
Our M2 Editor-in-chief Andre Rowell chats with co-founder and Managing Director of Chooice NZ, Sarah Colcord. Chooice NZ (originally conceived as New Zealand Made Products) is a New Zealand-based online marketplace which allows New Zealand small businesses to sell and market their products and services to consumers through its website and Facebook group, the latter […]
Say the word ‘sommelier’ and we automatically think of a restauranteur with an extremely strong knowledge of wine. But in France, sommelier just means ‘waiter’ as they don’t really separate food and wine, seeing them as all part of the same dining experience. A Master Sommelier, however, is something quite different as they have passed […]
Which is the best whisky to drink? Scotch or Japanese? Irish or bourbon? That’s like asking; ‘which is the best car? An Aston Martin, Ferrari or Rolls Royce?’ All are equally awesome, it’s just that some have been designed more for one purpose than another and may be superior in one aspect yet inferior in […]
On Wednesday 24 February 2021, 60 guests were invited to celebrate the launch of the new Rolls-Royce Ghost at the American Magic Pavilion in Viaduct Harbour, Auckland. Sponsored by M2, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Auckland, Champagne Bollinger, The Hour Glass, Hublot and Taylor’s Port, guests were served Champagne Bollinger on arrival, hors d’oeuvres throughout the evening […]
To be the best in the world is a massive achievement. What a feeling it must be, scrambling up that last steep, slippery, rubble-strewn slope to finally stand atop the peak of your profession and gaze down on everyone else you used to look up to. Content. Victorious. Justified. Sure, some world beaters are hailed […]
Got a rum lover to buy a Christmas gift for but not sure of their tipple of choice? Let them choose with this magnificent taster box of molasses rums from Plantation Rum for a mere $119.99. Six elegant 100ml bottles from six different locations make this the ideal gift to discover the gourmet universe of […]
Christmas isn’t just an All Blacks Test or mate’s barbeque – it’s a special occasion. One that should be celebrated with a glass of quality wine in hand, and Taylor’s 10 Year Old Tawny Port fits the bill to perfection. My Christmases have featured Taylor’s for about fifteen years now – so it’s my favourite […]
Happy birthday to you! It’s 100 years since Prohibition started in the USA – sorry I’m a little late on the anniversary, the Eighteenth Amendment was actually passed on January 17 1920, but I’ve had a killer hangover… The US Prohibition lasted for 13 years until President Roosevelt signed off the Cullen-Harrison Act that basically […]
At greater than 95%, the odds of survival for men with testicular cancer are better than good and often why testicular cancer doesn’t gain the same attention as others. But for some men, treatment-related side effects mean quality of life can be severely comprised. At Movember, we focus on getting these predominately young men back […]
Spector has worked as a bartender in some of the biggest venues in the world, and his whisky knowledge is second to none. Now he’s back in New Zealand, we decided to pick his brain over a drink or two. Starting easy, on the rocks or neat? Ah, it actually depends. I don’t think there […]
The prefect old fashioned should be three things; Balanced, Assertive and clean. A holy trinity of sorts; Bourbon, Bitters & technique (sweetener and dilution). This classic is incredibly easy to make and should be in every home entertainers’ repertoire of crowd pleasers! Plus who doesn’t want to feel like Don Draper… However, this classic tipple’s […]
Authentic icons and essentials, infused with unexpected, modern twists with a heavy dose of streetwear and ’90s elements are at the heart of Levi’s Spring/Summer 2019 collection. The ’90s are still very much alive this season. Think hip-hop inspired sportswear like hoodies, hybrid trucker jackets and tees featuring bold colour-blocking, big logos and eye-catching graphics. […]
At a networth of USD$194 billion, Elon Musk has always been a confusing man to work out. His mind is filled to the brim with ingenious ideas of the future, being the owner and CEO behind the Tesla car brand and taking the next greatest step in mankind by making a civilization of humans on […]
On Friday 22 February 2019, 130 business minds became part of a community of professionals inspired by fellow New Zealand leaders and visionaries, celebrating success, sharing business insights and building key relationships. Our Editor, Andre Rowell, talked to inspiring business leaders who are executing on a local and global scale, including Sir George Fistonich, Founder […]
If we were to enter the future of cars together, right now…what would we see?Would it be a splendor of dazzling lights and grandeur? Would cars be filled to the brim with artificial intelligence that it would be able to breath, and have a fully-functioning beating heart? I’d believe that what you would always see […]
Termed by the Ancient Greeks to being a state where all judgements are suspended to guarantee feelings of worry and anxiety, an epoche is the feeling any male should strive for. To just not worry and to relax, put your feet up and lavish in luxury. That’s what’s been promised by naval architecture giants, Dr […]
Instagram is a funny thing. Scroll through your feed at any given time and find post after post of envy-inducing holiday photos, each one more idyllic than the next. Then us too, posting our own versions of paradise, waiting in anticipation for other like-minded envious followers to also validate our holiday pics with a ‘like’. […]
Without Villains Bond is just a guy who picks up women at hotel bars for one night stands. Without villains the women wouldn’t end up inexplicably dead a day or two later to send him a message. Without villains, he’d have to have awkward conversations with them later when they catch him at another hotel […]
Behind an unsuspecting door in a small lane in Britomart you’ll find New York-inspired cocktail lounge, Caretaker. Everything is in the details at this hard-to-find spot where you can choose your drop from the everchanging menu. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, let the bartender take control and whip up your own personalised cocktail. Caretaker. Roukai […]
We all love a luxury dining experience, one filled with a chic interior, outstanding aesthetic and a complete sensory experience. Alibi restaurant delivers this and more, as Australia’s first ever 100% fully plant-based restaurant. Australia’s first ever 100 percent fully plant-based restaurant, Alibi, opened this March. Located in the Sydney suburb of Woolloomooloo, on the […]
If you’ve ever frequented a bar, nightclub or restaurant, you’re well aware of the distinctive bottle. Small in stature, jacketed with an oversized label and topped with a yellow cap, Angostura’s iconic aromatic bitters are a staple in bars across the globe, and, flanked alongside a selection of smooth rum blends like the 1919 and […]
The Best of Italy One might ask , what does a fashion brand and a car manufacturer have in common? In the case of Ermenegildo Zegna and Maserati, it turns out to be a lot. The new Maserati capsule collection inspired by the GranLusso trim package features sophisticated travel-oriented clothing and objects. Brownie Points Words […]
A home away from home for old salts has been transformed into a multi layered restaurant, bar and private club that has maintained its ‘On the Waterfront’ ambiance. A couple of years ago I became a foundation member of Seafarers Club, a private club venue situated above Ostro Restaurant occupying levels 3-7 of the historic […]
The Lula Inn is a new bar and eatery on the Viaduct with a unique Pasifika style. Great food and great entertainment, combined with a huge range of gins and some of the best cocktails on the Viaduct. If you are looking for a night out in town that is a little bit different, then […]
There’s nothing worse than pining after a dish all day, only to be miserably disappointed when your order doesn’t quite live up to the expectations. With a dizzying array of options dotted around the city, it’s hard to know where to even begin. To avoid a serious case of food disappointment, we found out where […]
