Chuan Spa in Auckland has been named the best luxury hotel spa across Australasia and the South Pacific at the 2018 World Luxury Spa Awards. The sumptuously appointed spa at the Cordis Hotel (formerly The Langham) takes a holistic approach to pampering, including introducing aspects of traditional Chinese medicine in its treatment approach.
Cordis managing director Franz Mascarenhas praised the Chuan team, led by spa director Victoria Stewart, for being recognised for excellence in the global industry awards announced in Northern Ireland this month. “We are devoted to the wellbeing of every guest and bring them on a journey that brings balance to the mind, body and soul,” he said.
“Helping our guests to restore balance in their lives is the heart of the Chuan experience.”
The world’s overall best spa was Este Fitness & Spa in Bulgaria, which also won the global fitness spa category, against other global category prize-winners in destinations ranging from exotic islands to urban retreats. The awards are hotly contested, with a long list of global, regional and country category winners named. Australian spas won several global awards, but New Zealand has yet to crack the top list.
In the regional category, Ponsonby's Spa Ayurda made it an impressive three-in-a-row when it was again named as the best Ayurvedic spa. Three Queenstown properties also made this combined Australia-Oceania list, with the Onsen Hot Pools receiving a nod for offering the best unique experience spa, So Spa at the Sofitel Queenstown chosen as the region's best destination spa and The Spa at Millbrook named best golf resort spa and home of the region's best spa manager as well.
New makeup artist for Yves Saint Laurent
Talented make-up artist Lochie Stonehouse is joining L'Oreal Luxe to take on a newly created national role. He will work across Yves Saint Laurent Beaute and after its forthcoming launch also take on Giorgio Armani Beauty. As national makeup artist his role will range from artistry to in-store activities. Stonehouse is a previous events artist at M.A.C and has worked as a makeup school tutor.
New stores to look out for
Look out for L'Occitane's enhanced flagship store at Albany's Westfield Mall. The new showcase of skincare, fragrance and gift items from the French beauty brand opens on July 28.
Frequent flyers may have noticed that Dior has recently expanded its presence at Auckland International Airport, with a swishy new space for jetset shoppers. The general manager of the Loop Duty Free departures stores, Tom Byrne, said: “There is an increasing demand to provide our duty-free customers with more than just products on shelves, but to create a full brand experience.” Dior’s installation includes a full perfume display, a lip bar, more makeup and skincare and a workstation allowing for indulgent makeovers.
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Advertise with NZME.Caci clinic collaborates with Dress for Success
Caci clinics are collecting quality new or near new handbags, suitable for women to take to job interviews, for donation to the Dress for Success charity. The organisation which helps outfit women to be work ready is also short on accessories, such as belts, scarves and jewellery. Caci is acting as a collection point until July 29. (Please note stained bags, clutches or canvas totes will not be accepted). Donations are being accepted until July 29 and for all accepted bags a 30-minute facial voucher will be offered.
Exciting news for Smashbox fans
After recent distribution changes, it looked like Smashbox cosmetics might be lost from New Zealand shops, but the US brand has been picked up by Mecca Maxima stores locally from the end of July.