Mae MacDonald

Is the hot weather getting to you? Check out these fan-tastic solutions to beat the summer heat.

Eat your leafy greens in bowls worth giving a toss about.

What's a Christmas feast without the snap of a cracker?

Light up your holiday spirit with these festive candles that smell as good as they look.

From puzzles to candles, plant pots with faces and funky coasters, here are 20 gifts under $50 to give (or put on your wish list) this year

This selection of small but perfectly formed prezzies all fall within a $30 budget.

Firepits offer more than just year-round warmth, they give a sense of ambience and foster cosy chats with a glass of wine. 

These best Dutch ovens will take pride of place on any hobClockwise from top left: Paris Hilton Enameled Cast Iron Heart-Shaped Dutch Oven, $98.24, at Amazon; Enamel Dutch Oven, $166.49, at NZSale; Rare Vintage Wagner Ware Magnalite Dutch Oven, $147.39, at Etsy; Velaze Enameled Oval Dutch Pot, $251.07, at Amazon. The colder months are here […]

Kit out your baby’s room in joy and wonder

A beautiful fruit bowl will add elegance and fun to your counter top Photography by David Wheeler If you’re on a mission to inspire your whānau to eat their five+ a day, a gorgeous fruit bowl helps draw attention to the delicious produce it holds. Proudly display your chosen fruit bowl on your dining table […]

Lilac is the dreamy, soft shade of purple that is as soothing as it is serene Clockwise from top left: The Iconic Cabana Light Beach Towel, Typo Flip Clock, Society 6 Flower Market/La Violette Art Print, Marston Moor Horizon Mug, Amazon Knot Ball Plush Pillow. Lovely, lovely, lilac. It comes as no surprise that this delightful, flowery colour […]

Recline in comfort and style.

Enjoy the summer sun in your backyard or at the beach with an outdoor umbrella Photographer: Alana Landsberry We absolutely love the sunshine, whether outdoors cooking a BBQ with friends or soaking up the rays on our beach towels. However, we know how intense the summer sun can be in New Zealand. Therefore, investing in a high-quality beach […]

Replicate Scandinavian design at home with natural wooden finishes, soft linens, and neutral tonesThis Point Chevalier villa perfectly embodies Scandi design. Photography by Helen Bankers Calling all minimalists, you can’t go wrong with Scandinavian design principles for cosy, timeless appeal. Think beautiful wooden furniture, soft faux-fur bean bags, and windows that soak up picturesque views. […]

If you aren’t afraid of a little colour or excitement, add inspired Mexican decor to your spacePhoto by Andreas von Einsiedel Mexican decor is laidback, vibrant, and always a party. Say hola to a fiesta of colour and a good dose of natural rattan. Outside, we love festoon lighting to brighten up a courtyard or garden. […]

Elevate your furnishings with a sophisticated armchair that doubles as a style statement  Photographer: Kristina Soljo A bit fancier than your everyday armchair, occasional chairs offer style and support for whoever comes calling by. Luxe fabrics like boucle or maximalist velvet are a nice touch, with attention to detail on the legs or added swivel features.  […]

Incorporate this earthy, elegant hue into your living spaces for a sophisticated finishPhotographer: Kristina Soljo There’s no doubt that olive green is having its moment as the it-girl colour of the year. Whether it’s a soft sage for your bathroom or a khaki kitchen, the shade is here to slay. But this spring, it’s clear that […]

From serene bush retreats to idyllic beachfront properties, these are the best New Zealand Airbnb homes to enhance your next getaway. Whiritoa beach, Coromandel. Photo: Mark Meredith. When you’re yearning for a refreshing escape, the right accommodation can make all the difference. An abode with a beautiful view or an architecturally designed place to rest […]

Fresh, woody, floral or exotic? Take your pick of the best scented candles.  Photo: Pablo Martin. Whether it’s the romantic charm of dinner by candlelight, the tranquillity of a candle-lit bath, or the cosy comfort of a scented candle infusing your living room with its subtle fragrance, candles can effortlessly elevate the mood and aesthetic […]