As the first month of 2023 comes to a close, we’ve taken a look back at our purchases for the new year. We reject the pressure of the new year, new me ethos, but January’s buys definitely have a wholesome vibe - from comfy bras to fruit and weekend experiences.
As always with our ‘nice things’ series, everything in this list has been bought, by us, with our own hard-earned cash - because we know how welcome a genuine recommendation can be.
Rachel Mills ‘Maria’ bralette, $89
A team excursion to the new Rachel Mills store (and Florets bakery next door) in Auckland’s Grey Lynn ended up being a successful lunchtime shop.
I love the sporty, simple look of this bra and the fact that it has no fussy clasps, and more narrow straps that stay hidden under tops is genius. Now I know this shop is around the corner from my house, I don’t have much hope that my ‘year of no new clothes’ will last very long... - Lara Daly
Wonky Box, $32
Our little household of two has tried a few subscription deliveries, some of which have been successful (ridiculously expensive juices) and others, annoying because of terrible customer service (dinner boxes). But as someone who is lazy, and regularly and dramatically describes supermarket visits as ‘my idea of hell’, having something so practical delivered to our door each week/fortnight feels like a true gift and privilege.
The latest is a fortnightly fruit and vege box delivery from this business that I think I was targeted as an ad on Instagram – but the real buy-in from me was the wonderful word ‘wonky’ (followed by their cute illustrations; yes I am superficial, sue me). They source produce that’s seasonal, and maybe a bit imperfect and therefore unloved by supermarkets. Wonky, unappreciated, anthropomorphic fruit and vege? I’m sold. - Zoe Walker Ahwa
Secret Spot hot tub experience, $78 for two
On a whim, my boyfriend and I decided to go to Rotorua last weekend for some relaxation. We swam in three different bodies of water one day and it was heaven.
A 15 minute drive from Rotorua central, Secret Spot feels like a bougie boutique cinema/ brothel where you get allocated a private hot tub (ours was called ‘Hippy Dip’) nestled in the tree tops, and you can order drinks at the press of a button. We felt a bit cheesy and ridiculous (like most things in RotoVegas, tbh) but it was honestly the most rejuvenating soak I’ve had in a while. - LD
Videris sleep mask, $35
Okay technically I didn’t buy this, but I did buy a new bra (which I also love but didn’t need) for $90 just so I could receive it as a free gift (maths was never my strong point). I already own a Videris mask and absolutely love it; I wear it every night.
It’s especially good at this time of year when I sleep with the French doors of my bedroom wide open (please don’t rob me) and blinds up. I like to think of myself as some kind of Marilyn Monroe sleeping beauty when I wear it, but judging by the reaction I get from my children if they ever walk in while I’m sleeping I’m more Mrs Hannigan. - Rebecca Wadey
MotherMade AM powder, $80
I’ve been having mushroom powders in my morning smoothie for years now. Always reishi. Sometimes cordyceps, often chaga, and occasionally Lion’s Mane. Because I buy each one at different times they all run out at annoyingly different times. Plus, I buy them from overseas. But after interviewing Hiakai executive chef Monique Fiso and hearing her rave about the PM blend from MotherMade I decided it was time to switch to a local company, so I got these at Farro and haven’t looked back.
People screw up with their faces when I say I put mushroom powders in my smoothie but honestly, with cacao, my favourite All Good oat milk, honey from my own beehives and single origin cardamom from a dear friend overseas who knows me so so well, it’s the most delicious - and energising - way to start your day. - RW
