So you’ve travelled across the world to experience New Zealand, you’ve voyaged on tours to some of the country’s most beautiful sites. Now it’s only natural to want to bring a little bit of New Zealand home with you, a souvenir or two to remember your trip by. Well, when it comes to deciding what souvenirs to buy in New Zealand, you have a great choice. But if you’d like to find something a little more authentic than the typical fridge magnets and tea towels, we’ve put together 10 of the best souvenirs we’d be tempted to bring home from New Zealand to inspire you.
Buzzy Bee
If you’re struggling to come up with New Zealand souvenirs ideas to use as gifts for loved ones back home, then the classic Buzzy Bee is always a safe bet. The Buzzy Bee is an iconic symbol and although it was originally a wooden children’s toy, you can now find the Bee logo on many other products – it’s just a case of finding the right Buzzy Bee item for you.
Possum Merino Knitwear
If you’re after authentic and traditional souvenirs from New Zealand, then Possum Merino Knitwear items could be for you. Made of fur and wool from the Brushtail Possums and Merino sheep, the Possum Merino yarn is elegant, soft yet still very durable. You’ll find the knitwear in most souvenir shops.
Pounamu Stone
Pounamu is a type of stone (you may be familiar with greenstone or jade which is what it is also known as) but the New Zealand Pounamu has a special significance to Maori people. Locally sourced in the Hokitika Rivers, the Pounamu is carved and crafted into stunning jewellery and ornaments, making amazing New Zealand souvenirs. This would be a beautiful souvenir for yourself, or make a great gift for any jewellery lovers you know.
Paua Shells
Beautiful and exquisitely coloured, Paua Shells are unique to New Zealand. They are found in seas surrounding the country and make for exceptional New Zealand gifts and souvenirs. Previously, the native Maori people had many uses for Paua, including using the shells as eyes in carved animal statues. Today, these shells have been transformed into fabulous jewellery, coasters, butterflies and many more lovely items
Sweet Treats
If you have a bit of a sweet tooth, then a selection of New Zealand’s tastiest sugary treats will keep your taste buds tingling all the way home. Plus, we’re sure friends and family wouldn’t mind the chance to sample the likes of delicious pineapple lumps, jet planes, jaffas and chocolate fish.
Manuka Honey
Manuka Honey is made in New Zealand by the bees that pollinate the Manuka bush. It’s a succulent honey that any kitchen cupboard would benefit from. As well as being a tasty addition to your morning toast, Manuka Honey is renowned for its medical uses, treating infected wounds and other conditions. So maybe this souvenir could be handier than expected.
New Zealand Wine
Taking home a bottle of world-famous New Zealand wine is an absolute must for anyone visiting the country. When you’re sat at home reminiscing over your trip, you’ll be able to pour a glass of vino that will swiftly bring back the taste of your travels too.
Beauty Products
New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, which are home to a range of exclusive plants and wildlife. The varied wildlife produces many natural ingredients such as bee venom, which are then used in many popular beauty products like Kawa Balm. Have a shop around and test out some samples, you never know, you may find the face cream you’ve been looking for all your life!
Designer Clothing
When shopping in New Zealand you may be interested in keeping an eye out for some of their home-grown designers. New Zealand is home to numerous designers such as Trelise Cooper, Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester, Zambesi, Annah Stretton, and Huffer and Ruby. So why not pick up a piece that you might not be able to find anywhere else in the world and wait for the compliments to pour in back home
Novelty T-Shirts
Amongst the vast range of souvenirs New Zealand have, an amusing t-shirt with a witty one liner is always a hit. The Kiwi humour will guarantee some extra laughs when you arrive home and will make a great gift for anyone you know who loves a good old novelty gift.
