Latest news with #Matchbox
NZ Autocar
2 days ago
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
members-only luxury car storage opens in Auckland
Auckland has just welcomed an unprecedented offering for the country's automotive elite: Matchbox, New Zealand's first members-only luxury car storage facility. The brainchild of property developer Mark Francis and business partner Zlatko Filipchich, Matchbox is located conveniently between Auckland Airport and the city's CBD. The facility has been purpose-built to meet the needs of classic, performance and collector car owners. The secure, climate-controlled garage uses car stacking systems to maximise space, with each unit accommodating up to four vehicles. But the service goes beyond storage as Matchbox offers full concierge support including WOF checks, insurance and registration management and pick-up/delivery services across Auckland. 'Matchbox is about more than just storage, it's about creating a home for cars and a community for those who love them,' says Francis. 'We saw a real need for a facility where vehicles could be cared for as works of art.' Filipchich adds, 'Whether it's a classic Mini or a modern supercar, every vehicle gets the same meticulous attention. We take care of everything, so members can simply enjoy their cars when they want to.' The facility is designed with lifestyle in mind, featuring a members' lounge, private lockers, and an automotive library. Its location makes it attractive to not only Auckland residents but also out of town property owners and international clients, who can fly in, pick up their vehicle and head directly to their destination. Matchbox aims to cultivate a vibrant community, with regular events and social opportunities for members. 'Matchbox is a club as much as a facility,' Francis explains. 'We're building a community around a shared passion.' Find out more at
NZ Herald
3 days ago
- Automotive
- NZ Herald
Society Insider: Mark Francis' new luxury car facility; Eric Watson's son Sam's new MDMA business; Urban Polo's Sam Hopkinson and wife Elisha's fab life
Zlatko Filipchich at Auckland's new luxury car storage facility, Matchbox. Photo / Supplied The new storage facility, completed last month, is a passion project by friends Filipchich and Francis. Society Insider met with the pair for a tour of the facility and was amazed at their attention to detail in storing prized automotive possessions. Among the Aston Martins, Ferraris, Porsches and McLarens are a generous number of Euro and American classics as well as Japanese supercars. Filipchich says it suits collectors like himself, whose urban abode can only fit two cars. As well as storing the cars, staff at the facility take care of the admin that comes with ownership. 'I have five cars and I'm time poor. 'It was not enjoyable having them scattered around and maintaining WOF checks – the older cars require inspections every six months – registrations renewals, insurance updates and arranging vehicle maintenance.' Filipchich describes Matchbox as a one-stop shop for it all and although it might seem like a luxurious storage for wealthy people, he is quick to say that many members are simply car lovers, above all else. 'There are also secret shoppers who don't want their other halves to know about their latest purchase,' adds Francis. Cars at the Penrose facility. Photo / Supplied. Matchbox's position between the airport and the CBD is purposeful for Queenstown residents with lock-up and leave city pads in Auckland, or overseas owners of beach houses in places such as Tara Iti. 'They can land and come and pick up their car here, and drive straight to the course,' says Francis. Matchbox also provides a pick-up and delivery service for clients whether it's to their home, beach house or racetrack. 'It's not just high-performance cars; race cars, track day cars and motorbikes we give a second home to here; these cars have history, whether in the market or the owners' lives,' Filipchich says. 'That original Mini 1000 in the corner holds the memory of a few first hook-ups for its owner. 'Many of our members have names for their cars, that's Maxine over there.' Matchbox has been curated like an art gallery, with lighting designed to highlight the collection in storage. Some cars have their covers on, and every car's number plate is covered for the privacy and security of each member. 'Some members like to show their cars, some members prefer discretion and absolute privacy, but all of our members demand the best security,' says Francis. Business partners Mark Francis and Zlatko Filipchich. There are regular events planned for members, on the premises and on planned drive days. There will be events further afield, with one planned with Queenstown's Ayrburn, which launched its inaugural Classic this year. Such is the buzz around town about the facility, Filipchich and Francis have been inundated with requests for high-end events, fundraisers and fashion shows. The smart-looking Fort Knox-style building provides several key features including state-of-the-art security and climate control, with all vehicles trickle-charged. The charging provides a low, consistent flow of current to a battery over time, mostly used for maintaining battery charge during periods of inactivity. Matchbox offers a members' lounge at the storage facility. Photo / Supplied Pride of place is a life-size bronze sculpture of a security guard by New Zealand artist Michael Parekowhai called Paratene. He stands guard like a friendly shadow and is said to be worth more than many of the collectibles in the facility. 'We have been working with Deanna Pearton, who is curating Matchbox's art collection with Michael Lett Galleries,' says Francis. Filipchich moved on from a successful career in IT a decade ago and started working fulltime on his passion for cars. While he doesn't want to give too many of his trade secrets away, Filipchich sources rare or coveted cars overseas for local owners and then sorts their compliance in New Zealand. Francis met Filipchich when he sourced him a Mercedes-Benz Pagoda six years ago. 'Mark and I aren't just passionate about cars, we are each other's kind of people,' says Filipchich. Francis is one of New Zealand's most successful men in property with a career spanning more than 25 years across financial and real estate markets. Last November, Society Insider revealed he was a major shareholder in the new $100 Auckland Surf Park in Dairy Flat. Matchbox's branding outside is subtle; the black building is accentuated with bronze mesh detail, which Francis says is similar to the finish used on another property he worked on, The College Hill Wine Room in Ponsonby. Matchbox is on Great South Rd, Penrose. Photo / Supplied Next week, Matchbox will host a monied charity event of 250 guests, catered for by The Wine Room, featuring the best from All Black Beauden Barrett's exclusive wine club Beau Jour. The members' entrance and lounge has been curated by interior designer Heather Walker of Cocohills design store in Remuera. Walker tells Society Insider she understood the pair's vision from day one and set about sourcing and collating the best of materials from SCE Stone, Forte Flooring and top fabric, furniture and lighting suppliers she works with. 'I had most items custom-made to ensure a cohesive and bespoke look and feel was created for Matchbox's discerning members. 'The end result is the perfect place to relax, have a drink and admire your beloved car stacked alongside quality company.' Bespoke goes next level as Filipchich explains the car stacking equipment, which fits up to four cars, was commissioned to local suppliers. The charcoal-painted electric hydraulic system features leak trays and drive-on trays that are rubber-edged so as not to scratch the floors of the facility. The members' lounge and storage facility. Photo / Supplied Matchbox is described as "a club where passion, expertise, and a shared love for motoring help create lasting connections". Photo / Supplied Such is the detail, Filipchich didn't want unseemly painted bolts on the bottom of the hydraulic systems, each bolt has 3D printed caps. 'Many of our customers treat cars like artwork, in fact some prefer to come and see their cars here than at home,' says Filipchich. Many of their members may have multi-car garages, some that revolve, but Matchbox gives them somewhere for their favourites. He shows Society Insider the car cleaning facility and proudly opens a side room with an Aladdin's cave of car grooming products, which members can use. 'Some members are like me and find calm and pride from cleaning their car,' says Filipchich. 'This is not just a place to store cars – it's a club where passion, expertise, and a shared love for motoring help create lasting connections,' says Francis. Sam Watson's multimillion-dollar psychedelic journey The son of former Rich Lister Eric Watson has taken the success of his CBD oil business and turned his focus to MDMA. Sam Watson is the managing director of Australian therapeutics giant Bioxyne, which he says recently delivered its first batch of Australia's first approved medical MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, and psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, that produce effects similar to LSD. In 2023, Australia became the first country to classify psychedelics as medicines at a national level. It approved access to MDMA-assisted therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder and psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression. Sam Watson is getting into the business of MDMA. Photo / Breathe Life Sciences website Bioxyne's subsidiary Breathe Life Sciences – started by Watson – was then awarded Australia's first good manufacturing practice licence to manufacture the drugs, with trials said to start soon. Watson, Eric's first son, spent his early years in Auckland before mixing with London's elite when he joined his father who relocated to Britain in the mid-2000s. Watson dotes on his three half-brothers, which Eric has with his partner, Swedish model Lisa Henrekson. Watson went on to earn a BSc in Finance and Economics at the New York University Stern School of Business. Meanwhile, his father has had negative headlines for more than a decade from his legal stoush with Sir Owen Glenn, which landed him in prison in 2020 for contempt of court. More drama followed with the United States regulator, the Securities and Exchange Commission, investigating him for alleged insider trading. Sam Watson has stayed in London and is said to be making tens of millions out of CBD. In 2018, he started therapeutics company Breathe Life Sciences, which investigates psychotropic medicines for mental health. Four years ago, Society Insider highlighted his successful London-based CBD business, Dr. Watson – a subsidiary of BLS. His uncle, Dr Richard Watson, an agricultural research scientist, was the chief scientific adviser for the company. Sam Watson and his uncle Richard Watson, who together started a CBD company called Dr. Watson. Photo / Supplied It was a family affair – Henrekson also modelled for the brand. Since then, Watson has taken his psychedelic trip global and Downunder. In 2023, BLS merged with Bioxyne and Watson was made CEO at age 29, becoming the youngest CEO of an Australian publicly listed company. This month, in an update to the Australian Securities Exchange, Watson said Bioxyne finished the 2025 financial year in style with 200% growth, making A$28m ($30.2m). Last month in a Bioxyne investment video, Watson said that in the past 12 months the company had delivered one million medical cannabis flowers, oils, capsules, vapes and pastilles to market. Bioxyne manufactures in Britain, Japan and the Czech Republic. In Australia, it delivers to pharmacies, clinics and distributors. Watson said Australia has one of the most advanced cannabis markets in the world, saying it is valued at A$1 billion and is growing rapidly. He says that at the company's state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Brisbane, it can manufacture A$100m worth of cannabis per year. It has tripled its manufacturing capabilities over the past six months. Its most popular product, pastilles (gummies), contributes to A$50m of that. Watson's father, businessman Eric Watson. Photo / Greg Bowker Polo power couple's fab Oz life Sydney socialites are getting excited about a new event brought to the city by our most famous Kiwi polo player. Sam Hopkinson played on the international polo circuit and was sometimes in action alongside members of the British royal family. Now living in Sydney, Hopkinson and wife Elisha are an Australian polo power couple. The pair met in the city over a decade ago, when Hopkinson was playing. Elisha is the CEO of iconic fashion brand Sportscraft and the daughter of multi-millionaire Australian apparel titan Andrew Marshall. Kiwi polo player Sam Hopkinson and wife Elisha. Photo / Supplied Marshall is the chairman of Marshall Investments and APG & Co, which owns brands well known on both sides of the Tasman, including Sportscraft, Saba and Jag. The couple live in Sydney's smart lower north shore and spend most weekends with their three young girls at Elisha's family's famous Kurri Burri Polo Club in Richmond, 60km northwest of the city. Sportscraft is the official apparel sponsor for the 2025 polo season in Australia. Hopkinson got into polo as a teenager living in Christchurch. His under-17 rugby coach played the sport, favoured by royals and aristocrats, and got him started. He travelled to Britain after finishing school and started playing internationally. Hopkinson, who featured in Vanity Fair's 'Polo's Hottest Horsemen' in 2009, works with Auckland-based Urban Events managing director Simon Wilson. Karen Walker and Urban Events managing director Simon Wilson at the Auckland Urban Polo. Photo / Supplied Wilson started Urban Polo in Auckland in 2016, and the events are now held annually in Christchurch in February, Auckland in March and Singapore in May. As Urban Events executive director, Hopkinson has been instrumental in bringing Urban Polo's F3 style of the game to Australia. Earlier this year, we reported that the company had purchased the rights to Victoria's famous Portsea Polo, Australia's longest-running polo event on Melbourne's Mornington Peninsula, which is held in February. The company is also planning a New York event. Hopkinson tells Society Insider that Urban Events has now organised a tournament for Sydney in November. 'We are kicking off a new era of polo in Sydney's East at Centennial Park, it's the polo event Sydney has been waiting for. 'We have been passionate about promoting the very best format of the game since we started this journey, and to add another iconic Australian event is another step in the creation of our global series.' Expect Urban Events' wealthy and well-known shareholders to enjoy the inaugural Aussie action. Sydney-based Kiwis such as Centuria Capital Australia joint CEO Jason Huljich and Cook Property Group founder Ben Cook will be there. Also expected are their fellow Urban Events shareholders, Centuria Capital NZ CEO Mark Francis, rich list property developer Kurt Gibbons, Forsyth Barr executive director Jonty Edgar and former All Blacks Dan Carter and Ali Williams. Hopkinson explains Urban Events has partnered with the Australian Polo Federation, which will be able to showcase the best players and horses in the country, taking the Urban Polo events to the elite sporting level they have been working towards. Last November, the company partnered with TEG Sport, the billion-dollar company behind entertainment and ticketing business Ticketek, to evolve Urban's fast-paced style of polo in the US, Asia and the Middle East. Party people of the week Beauden Barrett joins forces with Land Rover An intimate group of owners, car enthusiasts and cultural insiders gathered in Grey Lynn last Tuesday night to mark the launch of Land Rover's new off-road V8, the Defender Octa, and to celebrate a new partnership with rugby icon Beauden Barrett. The partnership has been launched through a new content series shot by fashion photographer Chris Sisarich and Subgenre. The campaign sees Barrett retracing his roots from the gravel roads of Arawhata in the shadow of Mt Taranaki, to the sidelines of Stadium Taranaki. It was shot a few weeks ago on Barrett's birthday, in weather typical of his hometown of Taranaki – rain, hail and sunshine. Among those in attendance were Jason Domancie from Subgenre Studio, TVNZ's Melodie Robinson, Superette co-founder Rickie Dee, Fearon and Hay's Tim Hay, The Local Project's Cassidy Lockwood, Wonder Group creative director Buster Caldwell, Someday Studios' Milly Hewat-Wall with husband, real estate agent Ollie Wall, chef Tom Hishon, Ensemble's Zoe Walker Ahwa and Rebecca Wadey, alongside VIP Defender customers. The brand said its partnership reinforces its long-standing commitment to rugby, globally and at a grassroots level, before the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025. Chris Sisarich and Beauden Barrett at the Defender and Beauden Barrett X launch in Grey Lynn. Photo / Kayle Lawson Richard Moore, Hannah Whittington-Davis, Laura Furey and Beauden Barrett. Photo / Kayle Lawson David Linklater, Giltrap Group CEO Steve Kenchington and Damien O'Carroll. Photo / Kayle Lawson Helen Cherry, Chris Sisarich and Chris Cherry. Photo / Kayle Lawson Jono Parker and Cassidy Lockwood. Photo / Kayle Lawson Melodie Robinson and Marcus Wheelhouse. Photo / Kayle Lawson Glenn Winwood and Tessa Patrick. Photo / Kayle Lawson La bohème opening night New Zealand Opera's winter season of La bohème opened recently at Auckland's Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, hosting some very special guests. Now playing in Wellington's St James Theatre until June 22, the opera then travels to Christchurch, opening on July 2 at the Isaac Theatre Royal. The new production remains true to the bohemian spirit of 'truth, freedom, beauty, love' of Puccini's original opera, while transporting the story to the evocative backdrop of Paris after World War II. The international and Kiwi cast are accompanied by the Auckland Philharmonia, Orchestra Wellington and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, alongside the Freemasons Foundation NZ Opera Chorus. Among those who enjoyed opening night were the Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and NZ Opera patrons former Prime Minister Helen Clark and Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson. Tracy Grant Lord and Karen Walker at La bohème opening night at the Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre. Photo / Jinki Cambronero Sarah Amos and Matthew Sokolich. Photo / Jinki Cambronero Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro. Photo / Jinki Cambronero Helen Clark and Joanne Cole. Photo / Jinki Cambronero Hamish Bell and Desley Simpson. Photo / Jinki Cambronero Chris and Nelson Wang. Photo / Jinki Cambronero Michael Stevens and Campbell Parker. Photo / Jinki Cambronero Kawiti Waetford and Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro. Photo / Jinki Cambronero Soni Sandhu's luxe red carpet reveal Last Saturday evening, Label House by Soni Sandhu rolled out the red carpet for an exclusive showcase of its Winter 2025 Collection, attracting a stylish crowd of around 70 guests to its showroom on Parnell Rd. Debuting under the theme Winter in Colour, Sandhu showed a bright and bold new direction for the cooler months. Models took to the runway in tailored coats, structured blazer suits, rich tweed pieces and eye-catching sequin dresses. Among the fans of the brand were podcast host Ali Bond, fashion stylists Michiko Hylands and Megan Robinson, who enjoyed flowing champagne, handcrafted cocktails, and a selection of gourmet canapes, setting the tone for a night that turned from runway to a dancefloor party. Ali Bond and Andee-Grace Tilling at Soni Sandhu's luxe red carpet reveal. Photo / Norrie Montgomery Megan Robinson and Michiko Hylands. Photo / Norrie Montgomery Designer Soni Sandh. Photo / Norrie Montgomery Chris Bayley and Britt Smith. Photo / Norrie Montgomery Wendy Lang. Photo / Norrie Montgomery Sneha Patil. Photo / Norrie Montgomery Palak and Apar Sethi. Photo / Norrie Montgomery Ricardo Simich has been with the Herald since 2008 where he contributed to The Business Insider. In 2012 he took over Spy at the Herald on Sunday, which has since evolved into Society Insider. The weekly column gives a glimpse into the worlds of the rich and famous.
NDTV
14-06-2025
- Business
- NDTV
Barbie-Maker Mattel To Use ChatGPT To Design New Toys
Barbie-maker Mattel has signed a new deal with OpenAI to use its artificial intelligence (AI) tools to design new toys and in some cases, power them. The iconic toymaker is expected to announce its first 'AI-powered product' later this year, to enhance 'fan engagement in a safe, thoughtful, and responsible way". The collaboration is still at an early stage, with the toy maker also planning to create digital assistants based on Mattel characters. 'We plan to announce something towards the tail end of this year, and it's really across the spectrum of physical products and some experiences,' Josh Silverman, Mattel's chief franchise officer, told Fortune. 'Leveraging this incredible technology is going to allow us to really reimagine the future of play.' In addition to product development, Mattel is hoping to utilise OpenAI's enterprise tools, such as ChatGPT Enterprise, across its internal operations. 'The idea exploration phase of creative design for companies like Mattel and many others, that's a critical part of the workflow,' said Brad Lightcap, OpenAI's chief operating officer. 'As we think about how AI builds tools that extend that capability, I think we're very lucky to have partners like Mattel that we can work with to better understand that problem.' Mattel's struggles The development comes in the backdrop of challenges that the global toy industry is facing. Owing to economic uncertainty, customers are spending cautiously, and Mattel, like other toy manufacturers, has been battling reduced demand and rising operational costs. At an investment conference in March, earlier this year, Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz said the company had turned into an IP [intellectual property] company from being a toy manufacturer. While Mattel's toy business seeks inspiration, the release of the blockbuster Barbie movie in 2023, starring Margot Robbie, has allowed the company to diversify its offerings and bet big on its popular IPs. Currently, Mattel is filming two movies, 'Masters of the Universe' in London and 'Matchbox' in Morocco. 'We have 14 other movies and TV products in development,' said Mr Kreiz. 'You don't need a Barbie movie success,' to have a positive impact on the company.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Billy Ray Cyrus Makes Bold Statement About 'the One They Call…. My Girlfriend'
Billy Ray Cyrus Makes Bold Statement About 'the One They Call…. My Girlfriend' originally appeared on Parade. is opening up about his feelings about England, a music legend, and 'the one they call… my girlfriend.' The country star took to Instagram on Sunday, June 1 to share a photo of himself wearing shades and a green print open collared shirt and to share some thoughts about his 'great friend ,' music fans in the U.K. and . 🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 'Happy Sunday Callin!!!! Reminded this morning of my great friend Carl Perkins! Words he spoke to me. 'Take care of your fans in England 🏴 They love real music 🎵 and true artist who are unique…original … and not afraid of boundaries.' So true my friend. The inspiration here is unbelievable….. especially the one they call…. my girlfriend. Thank you 🙏🏼 @elizabethhurley1 for reminding me how great this country is. You would have loved Carl!!! From what you've shared he and your Daddy were very similar. Happy early Birthday 🎂 to your Daddy Bear 🐻 Ready ….Set …. Don't Go,' Cyrus wrote in the caption. Perkins, for those unfamiliar with the name, is a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer who had a huge influence on Elvis Presley and the Beatles. He wrote and was the first to record 'Blue Suede Shoes' and the Beatles covered his songs 'Honey Don't,' 'Matchbox' and 'Everybody's Trying to Be My Baby' (though there was some controversy over the origins of the latter song). Perkins died in 1998 at the age of 65. Perhaps more noteworthy than the reference to Perkins is Cyrus' mentions of Hurley, who the 'Achy Breaky Heart' singer has been linked to since Easter. She recently revealed that the couple will be in England together to celebrate her 60th birthday in June, and Cyrus' post confirms he is indeed in the approved of Cyrus' post, giving him props in the comments. '👏👏🔥🔥 You two are on FIRE! Love this!! Can't wait to see you perform again. Love your voice your music and of course you!' wrote one fan. 'You have always been wonderful BR! You know I've been a loyal fan since 1992, Al Shlitz called me 'Miss England'. I have always been privileged to have some of the best UK fan / friend times and memories in the US and here in England. Your 1997 UK tour was an incredible time! Hope you're enjoying being on this side of the pond. Happy Sunday Callin'. Much love & admiration always 🇬🇧🎶❤️,' added another. Billy Ray Cyrus Makes Bold Statement About 'the One They Call…. My Girlfriend' first appeared on Parade on Jun 2, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 2, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time of India
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Mattel is combining film and television units to create Mattel Studios
HighlightsToy maker Mattel is merging its film and television divisions to establish Mattel Studios, aiming to create entertainment centered around its iconic brands, following the success of the 'Barbie' movie. Robbie Brenner has been appointed as president and chief content officer of Mattel Studios, reporting directly to chairman and chief executive officer Ynon Kreiz. Upcoming projects from Mattel Studios include a live-action 'Masters of the Universe' film set for June 2026, a 'Matchbox' theatrical release in fall 2026, and an animated movie featuring 'Bob the Builder' with actor Anthony Ramos. Toy maker Mattel is combining its film and television units to form Mattel Studios , it said on Monday, as the company seeks to produce entertainment driven by its brands and potentially repeat the commercial success of the "Barbie" movie. Mattel Films President Robbie Brenner , who joined the company in 2018, was named president and chief content officer of the combined unit. She will report to the company's chairman and chief executive officer, Ynon Kreiz. "Our vision for Mattel Studios is to collaborate with leading creators to make standout quality content based on Mattel's iconic brands that will resonate in culture and appeal to global audiences," Kreiz said in a statement. Mattel's biggest brand is Barbie and its portfolio also includes Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, American Girl, Matchbox , Masters of the Universe , Polly Pocket and Uno. "Barbie," the 2023 film starring Margo Robbie and Ryan Gosling, grossed more than $1.4 billion in worldwide box office and received nine Oscar nominations. Mattel plans to release "Masters of the Universe," a live-action film inspired by the He-Man action figures, in June 2026, and "Matchbox," based on its miniature cars, is slated for a fall 2026 theatrical release The company has also developed television content like the animated series "Hot Wheels Let's Race" and "Masters of the Universe: Revolution." Jennifer Breslow, who previously was president of television and digital media at Legendary Entertainment, was named head of television at Mattel Studios. Other upcoming projects include "Bob the Builder," the brand's first animated theatrical movie featuring actor and singer Anthony Ramos voicing the lead character. Mattel also has a live-action "Polly Pocket" film in its pipeline, based on the tiny 1980s dolls.
