Monti Castello – Made in Italy The Italians use the French term ‘pochette’ to differentiate them from the ‘fazzoletto’. In English too, the practical ‘handkerchief’, should not be confused with the delicate square of silk that serves purely to elevate the aesthetics of one’s jacket – the ‘pocket square’. From parrots to paisley, terrazzo to […]
Well that has been a bit of a sh*tstorm since the last time we spoke, hasn’t it? I’ll get them out of my system now for the sake of making a point, but I hope soon to be able to ditch certain terms from my vocabulary in the not too distant future and they are… […]
In a world where cinemas are emptied and streaming reigns supreme, it’s actors like Harry Shum Jr. who rule the roost. Harry’s a man of many talents. As well as taking frontline roles in Netflix movies and shows like the Crouching Tiger sequel and Shadowhunters, he’s also been a backup dancer for plenty of dance […]
Cinema is an exciting experience of sitting in a big dark warehouse with a sloped floor and a bunch of strangers. Unfortunately due to lockdowns, this particular activity has gone the way of the dodo, replaced instead with sitting in front of a much smaller screen in a much smaller room with no slopes and […]
Midnight Family Shot by documentary filmmaker, Luke Lorentzen, Midnight Family takes place in Mexico’s suburbs where the Ochoa family are trying to scratch a living with a private ambulance. The dad and two brothers face a weird juxtaposition of emotion when the call comes through. Someone needs an ambulance, then a moment of exhilaration as […]
What advice would you give your 20 year-old self? Think less and do more. It doesn’t matter what talents or gifts you think you may have, others without them will get further faster because they take action, rather than wasting time trying to figure out the absolutely perfect way of moving forward, or even worse, […]
What’s your morning routine? “Wake up, drank” (a smoothie). Like many people, I’m a creature of habit and routine. Mine is my smoothie. This is usually accompanied with a walk, however workload permitting. What are the top three things on your bucket list? Do a lap of Nürburgring Ring in an insanely fast car- what […]
The Beginning Like all good stories, M2 has a beginning – two guys and a dream. Also a gaping hole in NZ’s market for a Premium Men’s Magazine which wasn’t just an excuse for pinups. May 2005, Getting Started With prior experience in radio and magazines, Tim Lawrence with the help of one other, got […]
Photo credit: John Price / Red Bull Content Pool Will Gadd, alongside local climber and guide, Iain Miller, conquer previously unclimbed sea stacks on the Irish Coast, the tallest of which is known as Chaos Stacks. The County Donegal is home to some spectacular climbs and natural wonders created by the ebb and flow of […]
Photo credit: Jaanus Ree/Red Bull Content Pool Sébastien Ogier driving on to claim his sixth career Rally Mexico win and with it his first driving for Toyota. Amid mass cancellations across the world of motorsport, this was the last race still going ahead under the FIA world competition.
The brain-child of UK-based author Georgie Codd, BookBound 2020 was the first of its kind. It took the big names and thrills of a normal literary event and used an online platform to offer a bit of light to book lovers during daunting lockdown times. The festival took place at the end of April on […]
All the way back in 2003, acclaimed award-winning Australian actor, Geoffrey Rush, joked that there was to be an invasion of Australians hitting America designed, as though by some freaky wizardry, in a “secret laboratory in the outback where we clone actors to unleash them zombie-like on an unsuspecting sleepy Hollywood.” The American reporter laughed […]
As far as top of the line watches go, you really can’t go wrong with the Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43. They’ve been going strong since 1952, being a favourite of pilots and aeronautical enthusiasts alike. Their design is both contemporary and timeless, this isn’t the sort of watch you’re going to regret when fashions […]
If you piloted an airplane or drove a rally car between 1933 and 1957, you might well have used a TAG Heuer instrument as a counter as part of your dashboard. This precision piece was not only vital for competition but perhaps even survival. After the Autavia (named as a combination of automobile and aviation) […]
Sing For Me French bladesmiths make a big deal out of their singing razors and you can see why. The hollower the ground, the higher the pitch the ringing (or in this case, singing) sound is at the end of a strop. Thiers-Issard have been making wicked sharp blades for two centuries now and the […]
Gillette’s latest innovation, the Gillette Skinguard Razor, features new technology that’s clinically proven for sensitive skin and designed to stop irritation. We can find the humour in many of life’s irritating moments, but skin irritation is no laughing matter. Stresses on the skin from shaving can cause redness, nicks, cuts, ingrown hairs and bumps. The […]
The 2020 Autumn/Winter collections are dropping now and honestly, here at M2 we’re pretty excited for what our favourite labels are bringing us. Among our top picks is the lineup Working Style is bringing which continues to be an evolution of great fabrics, soft construction, and most importantly of all, comfort. They always manage to […]
Founded in 1919 by brothers, H.M and W.O. Bentley, the luxury car brand, Bentley is not sitting back and resting after over 100 years of producing high performance luxury vehicles. They are continuing to push down on the throttle with their latest offering from Bentley Mulliner. In their latest model, the Bentley Mulliner Bacalar, the […]
Welcome aboard the Dynamiq GTT 160. We’re happy to see that you’ve survived the apocalypse. Italian superyacht builder, Dynamiq is setting the record straight with their brand new 49.5-meter model. This superyacht is super cool and elegant with a special focus on wellbeing and exploration – the GTT 160 is perfect for the adventure-seeker. Designed […]
“We’re always impressed by how the Jaguar team manages to improve vehicles each model year and this year’s F-TYPE is no exception. While challenging to take a modern classic to the next step, the team have done so with vast improvements both inside and externally on the vehicle. In addition is a significant technology upgrade […]
From August 2020 expect to start seeing the first ever MINI Electric Hatch to start scooting around town as they land in local MINI dealerships. The iconic look of the new MINI is based off the MINI Cooper S, with a limited number of launch special “First Edition” variants coming with exterior accents that set […]
As we transition out of lockdown and get the wheels of the economy moving again, many of us are having to adapt and look at new ways of doing things in the interim and perhaps the longer term which in can in turn create new innovation. And that is exactly what Auckland City BMW have […]
Looking good is all about layering, and frankly, layers aren’t something you want anything to do with during the summer. But during winter, it’s time to bring your A-game and dust off all your much loved coats and jackets. Actually scratch that. Let’s get a fresh new look. Lockdown is now over and when you […]
You might’ve heard the famous phrase, ‘never waste a crisis’. Though more commonly used in economic circles, it seems particularly fitting of our current situation, when considering the impact Covid-19 is having on our mental health. As a group dedicated to helping Kiwi men live happier, healthier and longer lives, the idea of enforced distancing […]
The beauty of a captured image is a thing that artists can’t describe. The lens never lies. Started in 2007 by World Photography Association CEO, Scott Gray, the Sony World Photography Awards has been held every year offering the best in capturing a single moment in a single image. Recently, this year’s winners have been […]
Reid Hoffman, the founder of LinkedIn, said: “In crisis times, it’s actually not more difficult to motivate your staff, because everyone gets much more focused on how they control their own economic destiny.” This quote could not be more apt at the current time. Just a month or two ago, we planned to double the […]
‘Can we move our one-on-one meeting again?’ A familiar phrase. Many managers have a habit of moving or shying away from these meetings, unsure of how to structure them or how to have challenging conversations. Employees don’t push to make them happen because many take shelter under the umbrella of ‘no news is good news’ […]
Longevity in this business is about being able to reinvent yourself or invent the future. – Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft “What seems to us as bitter trials are often blessings in disguise” – Oscar Wilde, Poet and Playwright “If you’re going through hell, keep going” – Winston Churchill, Former Prime Minister of the UK […]
These last couple months have made us more conscious than ever about the things we touch. Everything from a handshake before a meeting to the buttons at an ATM. It seems the very wheels of commerce require a human touch. Closing deals is harder when you’re doing it over the phone. Money is more difficult […]
Utter the syllables; “Piña Colada” and, if you’re like me, you will immediately sink back onto your bar stool like it was a deckchair on the sun-drenched balcony of some luxury island resort overlooking the azure waters of a tropical lagoon. Such is the power of pleasant memories, Tom Cruise movies and cheesy-yet-iconic Rupert Holmes […]
One of the major casualties of Covid-19 is of course the tourism and hospitality sectors. It takes years and years of hard work, determination and hustle to build a successful business in the industry. To wake up one morning and have your years of hard work taken away from you, is nothing short of heart […]
After thoroughly acquainting myself with four bottles of Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select, it was time to whip out its big brother, ‘Double Oaked.’ He had been sitting on my shelf for a few months, waiting for the right opportunity; and although there was nothing in particular to celebrate, running out of all my standard bourbon […]
As we all headed into lockdown earlier in the year, I’m sure a lot of us were kicking ourselves for not getting the tech stuff we needed to really get through the ordeal in style. Personally, I wish I hadn’t dilly dallied on getting the power supply for this new monitor that just gathered dust. […]
Hungry? The only completely anonymous restaurant reviewer in New Zealand, the Hungry Mr. Wolf, has been eating all over the country finding the best spots for you to dine. Hunting high and hunting low our Mr Wolf is always hungry for an epic dining experience. You never know where he will go next… Andiamo 194 […]
Gaming has become a huge industry over the years and helping fuel that has been Sony’s famous PlayStation platform. With a bold, two-tone design marking a radical departure from previous PlayStation consoles. PlayStation 5 will launch in two options: a standard model with an Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive, and a digital model without a […]
Jabra has gone out of its way to make a hardy solution that hasn’t sacrificed comfort. With an IP57 rating, the wireless Jabra Elite Active 75t is waterproof enough to handle most things you’d throw its way. They’re so sure that they offer a two year warranty if it DOES bite the bullet to dust […]
Of course, we all know that SUVs have become the go-to vehicle of choice for automotive consumers these days and the automotive industry has answered the demand with a huge range of options. None, though more comprehensive than BMW’s X series. And the latest to the lineup, the X7 does a great job of lifting […]
If you’re looking for a prestige wine experience, the name Arthur Edmund should be on your radar, as it’s the name given to Mills Reef’s icon wine range. This range is comprised of two very special limited edition wines, a 2013 Cabernet Merlot blend, and a 2013 Syrah, grown in the acclaimed Gimblett Gravels wine […]
In tough times, it’s more important than ever to stand together and support local. Luckily, in terms of our wine industry, that means no compromise at all. A perfect example of local and yet world class winery is Mills Reef Winery. Established in 1989 by the Preston family, the Mills Reef brand has established itself […]
Belkin have come up with a design for a smartphone power bank so nifty I’m somewhat surprised I haven’t seen anything like it until now. The BOOST↑CHARGE™ Power Bank 10K + Stand Play Series has gamers in mind with its design; a slideout tray that perfectly balances your phone on a good viewing angle and […]
Staying strong and supporting others is more important now than ever. Staying true to this sentiment and to help keep people healthy at home Under Armour is giving you a 3 month premium access to MyFitnessPal (for new members). Nearly 180 million people already use MyFitnessPal to live healthier, happier lives. Get Started Now The […]
In times like this, it’s good to think about things that are rock solid and reliable. An institution, perhaps, that’s been through the worst the world has had to offer and still comes out swinging. In the last 170 years, a lot has changed. It’s hard to imagine what hasn’t until you’ve been to Eden […]
Back in the 1890s, the seeds were sown for what would become one of the world’s most respected wine estates and New Zealand’s oldest. In fact, the independently owned, family-run, Te Mata Estate still uses the same vineyards today. And for good reason, for well over 100 years they have been producing gold medals globally, […]
We here at M2 (‘here’ being a large radius of individuals in our respective homes) trust you are all doing the socially responsible thing and staying within your bubbles and going out as little as possible. The absolute gentlemen and women at Elephant Hill reached out to us to let us know they’re here to […]
A ninjutsu black belt-wearing friend once said, with more than a hint of desperation in his voice, as he assumed a prostrate position on the floor for the umpteenth time, “You know, I can’t wait for push-ups to become obsolete – or at least be regarded as bad for you!” Sorry, dude. No such luck. […]
For someone who isn’t yet 20, Freestyle Skier, Nico Porteous, has garnered more than a couple of lifetime’s worth of achievements. When he was 14, he became the youngest person in the world to land the triple cork 1440 (upside down three times, and four full spins). In 2018, he became the second-youngest Winter Olympian […]
It’s a really easy thing to get into a bit of a routine with things. This is of course a broad statement that covers most aspects of life, from habits through to tastes. In the wine world though, it is also true. It’s easy to get into a bit of a varietal groove. It might […]
In tough times, it’s more important than ever to stand together and support local. Luckily, in terms of our wine industry, that means no compromise at all. A perfect example of local and yet world class winery is Mills Reef Winery. Established in 1989 by the Preston family, the Mills Reef brand has established itself […]
Named the Vision AVTR, this Mercedes-benz concept showcased at CES blends Biological sensibilities with transportation. Made in collaboration with James Cameron’s Avatar team, this is seriously a car for the future. With four near-wheel independently controlled motors, it has a combined engine power of more than 350 kW. This sort of control gives the AVTR […]
What better time to look toward the future than right now. We’ve been combing through the options and found startups that have the potential to change the way we do things in the future, as well as trends in business to watch going forwards. Meatable I hate to say it but the writing appears to […]
Common wisdom would tell us that Australasia would have a hard time keeping up with Europe when it comes to things like wine and chocolate. But whenever we’ve been given the chance, we’ve knocked it out of the park. NZ has its fair share of great wines and don’t get me started on anything we […]
With many of us stuck at home, it’s easy to let go of some of our healthier habits. However, with all this extra time you may have, it’s the perfect time to experiment with new and easy dishes to get us through. Try this flavourful Thai-inspired slaw salad from Sophie Likes Cake for a change! […]
There is a fine line between success and failure. Often our internal dialogue, outlook and beliefs can tip the scales either way. It is natural to suffer from doubts and imposter syndrome and to talk yourself out of potential opportunities. In the words of Winston Churchill: “Optimists see the opportunity in every problem, pessimists see […]
It might be time to put a mirror up instead, so that you can see yourself in the current reality. A mirror is a metaphor and might in reality be a dashboard of your current numbers, a reflection of how you are currently doing relative to where you want to be. This will help you […]
