Our favourite lingerie store Underlena has opened a new showroom/retail space in Pōneke, throwing a get together last week to celebrate. Taking over the red Art Stable building at 56a Ghuznee Street, it's a move from its previous appointment-only spot on Courtney Place.

Owner Maxine Kelly describes it as a bigger and better “dream space”, and will continue to operate by appointment Tuesday-Thursday, and be open on Friday and Saturday. “It’s perfect for us - set back behind a courtyard (that I can’t wait to get herbs and flowers into) It provides the sort of privacy that I was looking for while remaining accessible on Ghuznee Street.” The space’s deep gloss burgundy floor paint became a point of fixation for Kelly, who had been inspired by a piece of PVC fabric she’d seen at The Fabric Store.

Pōneke’s creative community was out in support at the launch party last week, including friends from stores Coffee Outdoors, Kaukau and Sully’s, Wellington-based brands Abel and Jane Eppstein Jewellery, and hospo faves Mabel’s and Puffin Wine Bar. Guests snacked on chèvre and honey on crackers and sipped Paradise Prosecco from Everyday Wines in coupes, plus a layered honey cake by Maxine’s friend and pastry chef Holly.

Photographer Kyogo Hidaka went along to capture some of the guests – and their very Wellington outfits.