When life is stressful, it’s great to be able to kick back and have a bit of fun…bring on the good times!

I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a bit of a year…if you, like us, are looking forward to summer, Christmas and a fresh start next year, this issue is made for you.

We feel like it’s time to try to relieve a little stress, relax where possible and celebrate the good things where we can. To get the ball rolling, we caught up with nine chefs and bar/restaurant owners around New Zealand, leading the way with innovation, fortitude and a sense of joy. It is definitely a tough gig at the moment; we’re so grateful that they carry on undaunted (page 26)! When it comes to cooking at home for friends and family, we’re taking it easy with Claire Aldous’ incredible selection of burgers and pizzas starting on page 42…my personal favourite, the Crispy Spiced Onion Fritter Burgers with Mango Chutney, is going to be on rotation!

If you’d like to close your eyes about now and be whisked away to a balmy afternoon in the Tuscan countryside, head straight to Viva Italia on page 56, where Claire has whipped up the most outrageous selection of pasta and gnocchi. From rich and decadent to light and luscious, they are deceptively easy to make, and completely irresistible. Meanwhile, I’ve always been a mad-keen tart-maker, so for this issue I have shared six of my all-time favourites – the classic lemon tart is such a winner, it should be in everyone’s repertoire.

As usual our Food Fast section is jampacked with simple, stunning meals for every night of the week (page 80), while Olivia Galletly adds a bit of spice to spring with her sensational recipes, from page 100. In this issue we have two book extracts to share – the first from foodie superstar Donna Hay (page 112), and the second from my latest book Stuck Together (page 92) where, for me, the narrative is just as important as the food. I know many share my story.

Finally, we finish up with our regular Tasting Panel (page 119), helmed by the hilarious and uber-talented Yvonne Lorkin, presenting the top of the sauvignon blancs. We invite you to join us for a catch-up and a laugh… cheers to that!