Planning a trip to New Zealand? Our Frequently Asked Questions page covers everything from booking tours and transport options to what to pack and when to visit. It’s your go-to guide for clear, reliable answers that help take the stress out of organising your holiday. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with a group, you'll find helpful tips to make your Kiwi adventure run smoothly.
Shopping in New Zealand is a diverse and enjoyable experience, offering a mix of local designers, luxury brands, arts and crafts, and unique souvenirs. Major cities feature stand-alone stores of renowned local designers like Karen Walker and international luxury brands like Gucci. Souvenir stores showcase New Zealand-made items such as greenstone, Mānuka honey, and Kiwiana products. The country's vibrant arts scene offers handblown glass, paintings, ceramics, and traditional Māori crafts. Markets provide an immersive taste of local life, with farmers' markets offering fresh produce, and arts and crafts markets showcasing creative talents. Shopping in smaller towns reveals exclusive finds from local designers and artists, creating memorable souvenirs.
New Zealand boasts a vibrant fashion scene with must-visit boutiques showcasing local designer fashion. Renowned labels like Karen Walker, WORLD, and Zambesi offer cutting-edge designs, while Trelise Cooper and Kate Sylvester impress with feminine and eclectic styles. NOM*d presents unconventional aesthetics, and Storm focuses on minimalism. Ruby's contemporary designs and Juliette Hogan's timeless pieces are also popular choices. For luxury handbags, Saben, Deadly Ponies, and Yu Mei stand out. Elle + Riley and Tolaga Bay Cashmere Co offer luxurious cashmere options. These boutiques allow fashion enthusiasts to experience the unique and innovative side of New Zealand's fashion industry.
New Zealand's popular gift shops attached to museums and art galleries offer unique art pieces and cultural souvenirs. Te Papa Store in Wellington, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, and Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū provide a curated selection of art-related gifts. Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre in New Plymouth showcases Len Lye-inspired items, while Dunedin Public Art Gallery offers art books, prints, and crafts. Sarjeant Gallery in Whanganui focuses on contemporary and traditional arts and crafts, Waikato Museum in Hamilton offers art-inspired items, and Pataka Art + Museum in Porirua promotes Māori and Pacific art.
To identify authentic New Zealand-made souvenirs while shopping, look for the "New Zealand Made" label or the Kiwi trademark. Buy from reputable stores, especially from official museum and art gallery gift shops. Support local artists and artisans by purchasing directly from them. Check the materials and design, asking questions about the product's origin and production. Be cautious with mass-produced items lacking authenticity markers. Look for cultural elements in Māori crafts and compare prices to ensure fair value. Shopping at local markets often provides a wide selection of genuine New Zealand-made products. Being a discerning shopper ensures you bring home authentic souvenirs while supporting local businesses.
Look for superb Māori carvings in wood, bone, and pounamu (greenstone or jade), as well as jewellery and ornaments made from paua shell (abalone), treasured by Māori for centuries.
New Zealand's family-friendly shopping destinations cater to both parents and children, providing a blend of shopping and fun activities. Sylvia Park, Westfield Newmarket, and LynnMall in Auckland offer indoor playgrounds, while Northlands Mall in Christchurch and The Base in Hamilton provide Kids Play Zones. Bayfair in Tauranga, Queensgate in Wellington, and Riccarton Mall in Christchurch have dedicated Kids Zones with interactive games. Te Papa Store in Wellington features educational toys, while The Amazing Maze 'n Maize offers outdoor mazes and puzzles. These destinations ensure an enjoyable shopping experience for families, with children entertained while parents browse the stores.
Yes, the outlet shopping malls in New Zealand are worth visiting for several reasons. These malls offer a wide range of products from various brands and designers at discounted prices, making them a paradise for bargain hunters. Visitors can find high-quality goods, including clothing, accessories, footwear, homewares, and more, at significantly lower prices compared to regular retail stores. The outlets are particularly popular for offering past-season items, overstocked merchandise, and factory seconds. Whether you're looking for fashion items or home essentials, visiting the Outlet shopping malls in New Zealand can provide a rewarding and cost-effective shopping experience.
For fine woolen casual and sports clothing, look out for brands like Kathmandu, Icebreaker, Canterbury Sport, Wild South, and Untouched World. These brands are available nationwide in stores selling New Zealand goods and/or sports clothing, with several located in central Christchurch.
For fine woolen casual and sports clothing, look out for brands like Kathmandu, Icebreaker, Canterbury Sport, Wild South, and Untouched World. These brands are available nationwide in stores selling New Zealand goods and/or sports clothing, with several located in central Christchurch.
Most shops and businesses are open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. Many stores, including some boutiques are also open on Saturdays. However, it's important to note that banks are closed on weekends.
Many wineries offer packing and shipping services for purchased wine, and if not, they can recommend someone who does. This allows you to avoid carrying it throughout your trip.
Auckland's High Street is a great place to find local designer labels, and Pauanesia offers unique and interesting gifts, including pounamu pendants.
Christchurch Farmers' Market is a must-visit for artisanal products, organic fruits, vegetables, and innovative food trucks. Otara Flea Market is also vibrant, showcasing Pacific culture.
In Rotorua, visit Rakai Jade for a one-day "Carve Your Own" experience, where you can work with local Maori artisans to create your special greenstone memento.
Cuba Street in Wellington is the cultural heart of the city, featuring art galleries, boutique cafes, independent bookshops, thrift stores, and quirky bars.
Yes, Vintage Wonderland on Ferry Road offers carefully chosen retro design, home items, and collectibles, making it a great spot for vintage and antique shopping.
Yes, there are several online platforms where you can purchase New Zealand-made products and have them shipped internationally. These platforms offer a wide range of authentic New Zealand products, from arts and crafts to clothing, food, and souvenirs. Some popular online platforms that cater to international customers include:
When shopping from these platforms, make sure to check the shipping costs and delivery times to your country and verify that the products are indeed New Zealand-made to ensure an authentic shopping experience.
Sign up to our newsletter for special deals & exciting news.
