Cooking up a storm

NZ Rugby Stars Cookbook Allen & Unwin

A host of current and retired Kiwi rugby stars have contributed recipes for this winning cookbook. The perfect stocking stuffer for the food-loving rugger fan, there’s something in the line-up to please everyone, from your traditionalist carnivore to health-focused vegetarian, using easy-to-find, family-friendly ingredients. All royalties from the book will be going to the New Zealand Rugby Foundation, which focuses on supporting catastrophically injured rugby players.

Better than a Bought One by Jo Seagar, Penguin Random House

The favourite Kiwi cook comes to the party with this collection of recipes and tips for all manner of at-home celebrations. Easy, economical and impressive are the keywords here, making events such as a 21st party, a baby shower, backyard wedding and Christmas and Easter get-togethers achievable and stress-free.

Whiskey in a Teacup by Reese Witherspoon, Simon & Schuster

Actress, producer, mother-of-three and successful businesswoman Reese Witherspoon has added another string to her bow with her debut lifestyle book about how her Southern upbringing has influenced the way she lives, loves and eats – and gosh darn it, it’s a really good read! Her chatty writing style is peppered with cosy anecdotes about her family and friends, as well as advice on subjects ranging from what to serve at book club to hosting the perfect Southern-style party.