Emma Gleason is the New Zealand Herald’s lifestyle and entertainment deputy editor. Based in Auckland, she covers culture, fashion and media.
Emma has been with the Herald since 2020, contributing to Viva and other titles. Previously Gleason worked at one of New Zealand’s longest-running fashion magazines, and before that in marketing and communications in the local retail sector. She has been writing about life, style and travel for 15 years. With a keen interest in how our tastes and behaviour are changing, she sees lifestyle and entertainment as a barometer for society — particularly within the rapidly evolving landscape of media and our relationship with it — and approaches it with a critical lens. Everything we do, eat, read, watch, wear and create is part of our lifestyles; they reflect what matters to us, and are a key part of our economy and social structure, so reporting on these topics comes with a sense of responsibility; and the opportunity for change. From sharing the wider context around news and issues, to placing topics under a microscope for a closer look, lifestyle reporting can be insightful and revealing, and Gleason invites readers to view stories with thoughtfulness. She approaches stories with empathy and understanding, aims to challenge conventions and assumptions, inspire dialogue and change, and bring value to people’s lives.
Whittaker's chocolate to cost Kiwi shoppers more as company raises prices
'We are increasing prices by as little as we can.'
Coldplay's Chris Martin, Jason Momoa and other stars share support for hīkoi, haka and Māori
'NZ’s relationship with its indigenous people is very inspiring.'
Only have a day in Kathmandu? Here's what to do
I had 24 hours in Kathmandu, this is how I spent it.
100-year-old Auckland butchery snags award for NZ’s best sausage
Judges declared the winning banger “a truly delicious sausage”.
Deadliest storm in 100 years: MFAT’s advice for Kiwi travellers in Florida
70 Kiwis registered on SafeTravel as being in Florida as Category 5 storm hits state.
‘It’s this female rage story’: Ella Purnell on her killer new show and women on the edge
'The biggest thing that scared me was how can someone do that?’
Kiwi film opens Hawai’i International Film Festival
Miki Magasiva’s Christchurch-based film has 'incredible' world premiere in Honolulu.
Is Charli XCX coming to Laneway Festival?
Brat-green billboards cropped up, fuelling fan rumours.
‘Dream come true’: Nigella Lawson lauds NZ cookbook author
Alice Taylor was 'shocked' to wake up to a post by the celebrity chef.
From Chris Brown to Celebrity Treasure Island, Lance Savali is a Kiwi success story
From touring to TikTok and TV fame, how does he handle a pivot? 'There's no blueprint.'
Watch: Cliff Curtis appears stunned by interview at boxing match
An interview from the knockout fight has gone viral.
Eden Park: What would 12 concerts a year mean for Kiwis?
Securing shows is 'extremely' competitive and Australian stadiums are upping their quota.
Exclusive: SPQR restaurant site has been leased - who are the new operators?
The liquidators confirm new tenants will take over the iconic Auckland site.
Boots, blisters and bodyweight training: How fit do you need to be to do a Himalayan trek?
Everything I did to prepare for an eight-day hike in Nepal.
Two years after quitting hospitality, Luke Dallow talks new Ponsonby venture, SPQR rumours
From guerilla gastronomy to social media speculation, what's happening on Ponsonby Rd?
Watch: Rizz dad Ben Boyce goes viral for 'embracing my uncoolness'
‘An embarrassing dad with a mumbly NZ accent can appeal to people around the world.'
Watch: A first look at Lord of the Rings' anime adaptation
From Hollywood cast members to the famous Kiwis involved, here's what we know so far.
It's official - this tiny town makes the best toasties in NZ
The region has secured the hotly contested Great NZ Toastie Takeover competition (again).
Review - Alien: Romulus serves up invasive, exploitative space horror
OPINION: We watched the action-packed return to the franchise’s roots.
Nothing trivial: Why are Kiwis so hooked on The Chase UK?
A national obsession and appointment viewing, what’s behind it all.
‘Where do you park the car?’ Ikea's surprise after sending staff to check out 500 Kiwi homes
What does the company’s research mean for its Sylvia Park store?
Head South review: Christchurch’s post-punk scene comes alive in new NZ film
A Canterbury tale that follows schoolboy Angus on his quest for cool.
Review: Short, sharp Kiwi film debut packs a powerful punch
Review: Rebellion, religious salvation and civilising deviant girls premiere opens NZIFF.
Reap the benefits of flying to Guangzhou and beyond with China Southern
The airline provides free transit accommodation for qualifying customers.
'It's empowering': Behind the scenes at the ballet as RNZB gears up for its winter season
'You can put a bit of bite and a bit of grunt into it. It's really empowering.'
‘So beautiful’: NZ's best pie has been crowned
Hotly contested, these are all the winners in the Bakels NZ Pie Awards.
Dasha: ‘I wrote Austin out of pure rage’
Watch: TikTok-famous country star explains why her viral hit was a long time coming.
Where is the best pie in New Zealand?
A hot competition and arbiter of a national icon, Bakels NZ Pie Awards are back.
'Cruel': TrueBliss star defends soprano after social media trolls panned national anthem
'Why is it that we’re so quick to mock and belittle and pull down?'
'Come back as a zombie': Kiwi family's plea to fulfil burial wish
How are Kiwis finding the funds during a tough economy? 'It’s all so damn hard.'
Bids lodged with Air Vanuatu liquidators to take over embattled carrier
Will the airline's grounded planes get to fly again?
Vale SPQR: Kerre Woodham, Noelle McCarthy, Jesse Mulligan remember infamous eatery
A Ponsonby Rd landmark since 1992, it's seen a who's-who of diners through its doors.
G-strings at the pool: Quaint debate or moral panic?
Opinion: Just a thong and dance about togs, or something more serious?
JessB’s debut album is finally here: ‘It’s been far away for a really long time’
“I feel unrecognisable to myself from where I started.”
Apra 2024: Stan Walker leads way on Silver Scroll and Maioha awards shortlists
Finalists for the music industry gongs have been announced. Find out who made the list.
Martin Henderson on sex, getting sober and Madam
'Many men are just struggling with who they are.'
'Should have happened years ago': Paul Henry on Newshub closure
'Did we expect everything to remain the same?'
Locals Only: MAYJUN are pioneering a pop-punk revival in Aotearoa
It’s ‘music that people that look like us don’t really create’ and it's winning fans.
Kiwi classic disappearing from supermarket shelves
Stocks are dwindling as Cadbury makes cuts.
Review: Ka Whawhai Tonu’s powerful storytelling from our nation’s past
Opinion: A bloody, brilliant coming-of-age story stacked with powerful performances.
How a burner phone changed my life
Logging on has never been easier, or more addictive. How hard is kicking the habit?
Married at First Sight NZ: What does this obsession say about us?
Opinion: I've never watched the show or shared its appeal, but I need to understand it.
Grab your brooms, Practical Magic 2 is confirmed
Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock in talks to return for the sequel.
Gwyneth Paltrow reveals 'crush' on Kiwi chef
The stars got together in the kitchen, rustling up steak, squash and hasselback spuds.
'I miss a dominant masculinity': Jerry Seinfeld's latest controversy explained
Why is the comedian in the news for nostalgia and what's behind the backlash popping off?
Trekking in the Everest region is more than a walk in the park
We head to the Himalayas for Sagarmāthā National Park and a sight of Nepal's famous peaks.
'To my papa': Stan Walker’s Music Awards tribute after death of 'league legend' father
The singer made the tribute at the 2024 Aotearoa Music Awards this week.
Crowded House and the art of a magazine cover
There's a thrill that gets ya when you get your picture on the cover of the Rolling Stone.
Review: Tinariwen deliver a transportive storm of sound on a soggy Auckland night
'Welcome to the Sahara.'
Furiosa Review: Buckle up, George Miller's back
Can his stars handle the high-octane prequel? We discuss.
Viral Kiwi woodworker helping fundraise for assault survivors
‘Shocked’ by stories of abuse from the music industry, he decided to do something.
I’m a travel writer, it's only okay to recline your plane seat in these situations...
The ill-conceived seat feature divides travellers into two camps: Recliners and Decliners.
Celebs slam football star for 'misogynistic' and 'homophobic' comments
Stars respond to kicker's college speech that drew claims of misogyny and homophobia.
The 'big five' fashion brands that refused Zendaya
‘If you say no, it’ll be a no forever,' says star stylist Law Roach.
'Really tough day': Axed TVNZ show Fair Go screens final episode
'Gutted' hosts present last show and reveal where Kiwis can go for help now.
Kiwi muso at home in London and loving it
From Abbey Road Studios to cycling around the countryside and recording his newest album.
Can smart watches help curb anxiety about health and safety?
Do we need an Apple Watch to remind us to stand? If you're like this writer, then yes.
Review: Did Swan Lake make a splash in Auckland last night?
Opening night saw the RNZB return to tradition with Tchaikovsky’s classic.
Tuareg band Tinariwen ‘still fighting through the music’ and coming to NZ
Their Grammy-winning Saharan sounds have a cult following and famous fanbase.
Could TVNZ pull the plug on Shortland Street?
TVNZ looking at everything to stay commercially viable. ‘This includes Shortland Street'.
Where does Newshub's closure leave Ryan Bridge, Samantha Hayes?
'We all loved doing the news and all the Newshub staff would love to keep doing that.'
Review: Civil War is a well-crafted warning
Alex Garland’s new film is an assault on the senses. You should see it.
Catherine Tate: ‘I had no idea the impact Dr Who had’
Where does the comedian think true character is?
Very Versace! Italian Luxury Brand Unveils An Unexpected Campaign Star
Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy has a new starring role.
'Quite provocative': Luxon gives his verdict on Beyonce's new album
Cowboy Carter was the first topic of discussion with Mike Hosking this morning.
Watch: First glimpse of new Grace Millane doco
The film has the blessing of Millane’s mother.
Olive oil shortage in NZ, but there is no need to panic, there are alternatives like canola oil
With supply issues and rising prices, is it time to cut back?
'Pretty much living in hell': Inside young woman's escape from Gloriavale
'You were trying to save yourself all the time.'
Taite Music Prize 2024: More nominees revealed, band in 'disbelief' at win
The recipients of the Classic Record award are 'gobsmacked'.
Are Kiwis' favourite chocolate brands ethical?
Tearfund’s released a new Chocolate Scorecard. Where does Whittaker’s rank?
Womad 2024 Review: The politics of performance and protest
With powerful shows, Tio, DakhaBrakha and WITCH prove music is never apolitical.
Clint Roberts is still tuned in after 18 years: 'I don’t think radio is going anywhere'
Dropping out of broadcasting school was a risk that paid off.
The fashion week appearance that shocked the celebrity world
The Kiwi Grammy-winner was at the show, while a Dame made a runway debut.
Back to Arrakis! Does Dune: Part Two eclipse its predecessor?
Karl Puschmann and Emma Gleason share their spicy takes on the blockbuster sequel.