Why Ask Our Auckland Team What to Buy in New Zealand?

When you’re looking for the perfect souvenir, the best advice doesn’t come from a generic travel guide. It comes from the people who live and breathe the city every day. Our Auckland team is incredibly diverse, ranging from native Kiwis to expats hailing from Japan, China, Hong Kong, and the United States.

Not only are they locals who have called New Zealand home for anywhere from three months to 31 years, but our team also recommends gifts for visitors every single day. We know exactly what items capture the true spirit of Aotearoa, and the list below features their absolute personal favourites. These recommendations are driven purely by our team's genuine experiences, focusing entirely on sharing the absolute best our country has to offer.

1. Pounamu (New Zealand Greenstone)

What is Pounamu?

Pounamu is the Māori word for nephrite jade, which is found only in the South Island of New Zealand. It is traditionally carved into beautiful, culturally significant pendants and tools.

Pounamu is much more than just beautiful jewellery. It is deeply embedded in the history and spirit of the country.

"This is probably the most iconic NZ souvenir," says Emi (originally from Japan, living in NZ for 18 years). "Traditionally, it is gifted rather than bought for yourself. Each shape has a different meaning, like protection, strength, and connection."

Rebecca (from China, living in NZ for 2 years) echoes this sentiment, highlighting its cultural significance:

"Greenstone is a meaningful gift with a lot of cultural background. It beautifully represents New Zealand Māori culture and is definitely a great gift to bring home."

2. Whittaker's Chocolate (Especially Hokey Pokey!)

What is Whittaker's Hokey Pokey?

Whittaker's is a historic, family owned New Zealand chocolate company. Their famous Hokey Pokey flavour mixes creamy milk chocolate with crunchy, golden pieces of honeycomb toffee.

You simply cannot leave New Zealand without tasting and packing some Whittaker's chocolate. It is a legendary Kiwi staple.

"Whittaker's is a popular NZ chocolate brand known for its rich taste and high-quality ingredients," explains Yuko (from Japan, an Auckland local of 29 years). "It's easy to find and loved by locals."

While there are dozens of flavours, one stands out above the rest for tourists:

"It's just yum!" says Mihoko (from Japan, in NZ for 8 years). "Hokey Pokey is a special NZ flavour, so it's perfect as a souvenir."

Trin-Roo (from China, 5 years in NZ) also highly recommends it as a go-to gift because it is "tasty and very affordable," making it perfect for buying in bulk for your coworkers and friends.

3. Unique New Zealand Knitwear: Possum & Merino Wool

What is Possum Merino?

It is a uniquely New Zealand fabric blend that combines fine merino sheep wool with possum fur. The hollow structure of possum fibres makes the resulting garments incredibly warm, lightweight, and exceptionally soft.

New Zealand is world-renowned for its high-quality wool and unique fibres. Here is why our staff loves gifting local knitwear.

Why Possum Fur?

"Possums are very different in the States, so the idea of possum fur makes most people laugh," says Madison (from the US, living in NZ for 3 months). "But after an explanation and once they feel how soft it is, it's very NZ and makes a great gift for those outside the country."

Merino Wool Elegance

If you want classic, long-lasting luxury, Merino wool is the answer.

"The Kapeka Merino scarves are so soft and cosy," notes Anita (from Hong Kong, living in NZ for 31 years). "They truly represent NZ sheep and the natural beauty of the country."

Jin (from China, 3 years in NZ) agrees, adding: "Wool products here are good quality, warm, last long, and are easy to wear. They are very authentic NZ products."

4. Authentic Manuka Honey

What is Manuka Honey?

Manuka honey is produced by bees that pollinate the native New Zealand Manuka bush. It is world famous for its unique antibacterial properties and rich, earthy flavour.

Known globally for its wellness properties, Manuka honey is a premium, highly sought-after New Zealand export.

"It's unique from NZ and a very useful health food," says April (from China, living in NZ for 7 years). "It is a 100% natural superfood."

Because of these unique properties, it's a fantastic way to show you care. Rebecca adds:

"Manuka honey has really good health benefits, so I love to buy it for my family to help keep them healthy!"

5. Local New Zealand Wine

What makes New Zealand wine special?

New Zealand's unique maritime climate produces intensely flavoured, world class wines. Waiheke Island, a short ferry ride from Auckland, has a unique microclimate and is globally recognised for its rich, full bodied red wines.

New Zealand produces some of the finest wines on the planet. Yuriko (from Japan, 18 years in NZ) is our resident wine enthusiast and has fantastic advice for visitors:

"NZ is famous for its world-class wines, both whites and reds. Among them, the red wines from Waiheke Island are truly exceptional. The price range is quite broad, so you can choose based on your preference, from affordable everyday bottles to premium ones that appreciate in value. For my family and friends, I usually pick up a few bottles in the $20 to $30 range, which are reasonably priced yet still delicious."

Yuriko's Top Brand Recommendations: Vavasour, Astrolabe, Tohu, and Man O' War.

Honourable Mentions: Paua Shell & Alpaca Toys

We promised you five, but we couldn't leave out these two charming additions!

• Paua Shell Jewellery: Recommended by Trin-Roo, these iridescent shells are unique to New Zealand's coastal waters and make for stunning, colourful jewellery.

• Alpaca/Kiwi Keyrings: JJ (from China, 1.5 years in NZ) loves gifting these adorable, handcrafted accessories: "They are handmade from baby alpaca fleece. When you touch it, you will be surprised by how incredibly soft it is, and the Kiwi bird design is perfect."

Find the Perfect Souvenir at Our Auckland Store

Ready to pick up some Pounamu, stock up on Whittaker's, or feel that ridiculously soft possum merino for yourself? Come visit us! Aotea Gifts proudly sells a very wide range of souvenirs fit for visitors of all different preferences. From affordable souvenir classics to authentic, often handmade and authentic NZ made keepsakes, we have something to suit everyone.

We pride ourselves in our friendly service, welcoming all visitors to drop by and chat with Emi, Yuko, Madison, and the rest of our expert team.

Where to find us:

Aotea Gifts Auckland Commercial Bay

Commercial Bay, 188 Quay Street,

Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010

Open Hours: (Please check us on Google Maps for the most up-to-date opening hours)

Make a Day of It!

Our Commercial Bay location puts us at the literal centre of Auckland's waterfront tourism. When you shop with us, you are just a 5 to 15 minute walk from the city's best sights:

• Across the street: The iconic Edwardian Ferry Building (catch a ride to Waiheke Island or Devonport!).

• To the West (5 to 10 mins): The bustling Viaduct Harbour, New Zealand Maritime Museum, and Wynyard Quarter.

• To the South/Inland (10 to 15 mins): Next door to high-end shopping at Britomart, and a quick walk to the famous Sky Tower, the All Blacks Experience, and the Auckland Art Gallery.