The Summer Holiday Guide
with Founder, Caroline Sills
JOURNAL / DEC 29, 2025
The Pohutukawa’s are blooming and the cicadas are singing – the national signifiers that summer is here! As we settle into the season, we couldn’t resist asking our founder and muse, Caroline, to share what’s inspiring her this summer, from the books she can’t put down to the pieces she’s wearing on repeat.
The Sills Waiheke Home
Caroline & Nelly
Where I'm going
Lloyd and I are heading to Sri Lanka in February, it will be our first time there. We’ve heard so many wonderful things, and I’m excited for the scenery, the food, and of course, the warmth of the people.
Until then, we’ll be spending time at our home on Waiheke - a place we’ve loved for over 40 years. It’s our anchor and a special place for our kids and grandkids.
What I'm Reading
I’m deep into my favourite genre at the moment: Scandi Noir. If you love a gripping crime novel, I can’t recommend The Traitor by Jørn Lier Horst enough. It’s part of the William Wisting series (there are 14 books!), so there’s plenty to keep you company right through summer.
What I'm Drinking
I’m very much a red-wine girl, especially when it comes to a peppery Syrah. Lately I’ve been reaching for the Dunleavy “The Grafter” Syrah from Te Motu on Waiheke. It’s beautifully balanced and perfect for long, summer evenings.
What I'm Making
After all the cooking over Christmas (including my famous pavlova and meringues), I only want easy recipes.
My go-to this season is incredibly simple, and that’s exactly why I love it. Wasabi Mayo. One whole tube of wasabi mixed with Best Foods mayonnaise. That’s it. It’s the easiest way to add a bit of punch to seafood, or the perfect finishing touch to a leftover ham sandwich.
What I'm Wearing
This summer, the Becca Shirt hasn’t left my rotation. I have it in Navy, White, Micro Zahara Print, and Taluka Stripe. I love wearing it because it’s light and relaxed but still looks smart.
I’ve been particularly loving the Taluka Stripe because it’s adaptable, the Sand Stripe goes with everything.
And of course I’ll be wearing a good Panama hat. Our Elle Panama is my favourite because it really keeps you out of the sun.
SNIPPETS FROM SUMMER
Read on
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