SUMMER PLANS

DANCE

It truly has been the year of Lizzo, with hits Juice and Truth Hurts, an appearance in film Hustlers and her game-changing performances complete with flute and a wardrobe of bodysuits. Expect her latest remix of Good as Hell to be the song of the summer, and for her star to rise even higher in 2020. Lizzo is also set to appear at music festival FOMO, bringing her unique mix of badass confidence and fun to Auckland on January 15.

DRINK

While the recent Rugby World Cup in Japan has given many a reason to kanpai with the nation’s bitter beer in hand, a new spirit from the Cherry Blossoms’ home turf is set to change the way we celebrate. Japanese craft gin is winning the world over with its touch of tradition and distinctive botanical twist – in 2018, exports of Japanese gin grew by 600 percent, as 1.4 million litres sloshed its way to speakeasies the world over.

Roku, a premium craft gin created by the, harvesting ingredients once they have reached the peak of flavour, including the sakura flower (which is ready for only one week of spring), as well as sakura leaf (in summer), yuzu peel, sencha tea, gyokuro tea (in autumn), and sansho pepper (in winter), for a harmonious four-season sip. Good things take time and in the ritual of , Roku is made to be shared over special moments with its ‘signature serve’. Simply pour your friends a gin and tonic over ice, add six slices of fresh ginger and stir. Available at good liquor stores for $55.