Waiheke Evokes Fond Memories for Emilia Wickstead

New Zealand’s most famous fashion export, the Duchess of Cambridge’s go-to designer Emilia Wickstead tells The Telegraph how this “relaxed and beautiful part of the world” evokes happy childhood memories.

“There is something special for me about returning to New Zealand. I was born and raised in Auckland, by my mother and grandmother, until I was 14, when we moved to Italy. I still have relatives there and going back is always a lovely reminder of childhood summers spent on the beach,” Wickstead, 35, explains.

“It’s a treat to take my own family there – my husband, Daniel, and our two children – to share the experience.

“I go back to Auckland at least once a year, and whenever I do, one of my favourite places to visit is Waiheke Island, 40 minutes by boat from the city.

“It is a mix of dramatic hills, beautiful beaches and a calm and relaxed way of life. There are around 8000 inhabitants – some of them live there and commute to Auckland – and it is a haven of olive groves, clean air and fantastic food.

“The idea is to escape to Waiheke whenever we can. It’s like a tropical island, but so close to the city.

“Having a calm and relaxing time away is so important for me and my family and Waiheke Island never fails to deliver.”

In 2014, London-based Wickstead won the Red Carpet Designer of the Year Award at the Elle Style Awards.

Original article by The Telegraph, September 6, 2019.