Celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and unique blend of Māori and European traditions, New Zealand also offers a rewarding shopping experience for travelers in search of meaningful keepsakes. From artisan markets in seaside towns to boutique shops nestled among wine country, you’ll find locally made items that reflect the spirit of Aotearoa. Whether you're wandering the historic streets of Devonport or stopping into a honey shop in Hawke’s Bay, shopping in New Zealand is a chance to explore the country through its craftsmanship and creativity.
Here are 10 of the best New Zealand souvenirs to bring home from your journey.
1. Pounamu (Greenstone) Jewelry
Pounamu, also known as New Zealand jade or greenstone, holds deep cultural significance in Māori tradition. It’s carved into pendants, earrings and bracelets with symbolic shapes like spirals for growth or hooks for prosperity. You’ll find authentic pounamu at galleries and specialty shops across the country, especially in areas like the West Coast and Rotorua. Each piece is unique, with subtle variations in color and texture that make it truly one of a kind.
2. Merino Wool Clothing
Merino sheep thrive in New Zealand’s rugged terrain and their wool is known worldwide for being warm, lightweight and breathable. Local brands like Icebreaker and Untouched World produce stylish sweaters, scarves and base layers that are ideal for travelers and outdoor lovers. Available at boutique shops and outdoor gear stores, merino wool makes a practical, luxurious souvenir you’ll actually use.
3. Manuka Honey
New Zealand’s most famous export, manuka honey is prized for its antibacterial and healing properties. Made by bees that pollinate the native manuka bush, this thick, golden honey is sold in jars labeled with UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) ratings that indicate its potency. Visit shops like Arataki Honey in Hawke’s Bay to sample varieties and learn how it’s produced. Packaged in gift-ready containers, it’s a sweet souvenir that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
4. Māori Carvings and Crafts
From hand-carved wooden masks and bone pendants to woven flax baskets, Māori crafts offer a powerful connection to New Zealand’s Indigenous culture. You’ll find authentic pieces in museums, galleries and cultural centers, often made by Māori artists using traditional techniques. Each design carries meaning, making these souvenirs more than just decorative — they’re rich with storytelling and heritage.
5. Rotorua Mud and Skincare Products
Rotorua is known for its geothermal activity and its mineral-rich mud has become a sought-after skincare ingredient. You can find locally made face masks, soaps, lotions and bath salts infused with this natural ingredient, often blended with manuka honey or thermal spring water. These spa-inspired souvenirs are perfect for relaxing after your travels and are widely available in Rotorua shops and pharmacies across the country.
6. Paua Shell Accessories
Paua is a native New Zealand abalone with an iridescent shell that shines in shades of blue, green and purple. Its natural beauty is often transformed into jewelry, coasters, inlaid wooden boxes and keychains. Because each shell has a distinct pattern, every piece feels personal and reflective of the coastal environment. Look for paua crafts in seaside towns and artisan markets throughout the country.
7. New Zealand Wine
With renowned wine regions like Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay, it’s no surprise that wine is one of New Zealand’s top souvenirs. Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir are among the standout varietals. Many wineries offer beautifully boxed bottles and even ship internationally, making it easier to bring home a taste of your travels. Whether you pick up a bottle during a wine tour or from a boutique wine shop, it’s a gift that pairs perfectly with memories.
8. Kiwiana Memorabilia
Kiwiana refers to quirky icons of New Zealand pop culture — think jandals (flip-flops), buzzy bees, pavlova tea towels or All Blacks rugby gear. You’ll find these fun souvenirs in museum shops, airport stores and gift boutiques. They’re perfect for kids or for travelers looking to bring home a touch of everyday Kiwi charm.
9. Artisan Chocolate and Fudge
New Zealand’s artisan chocolate scene has taken off in recent years, with small producers crafting rich, creative confections using local ingredients. Look for bars infused with mānuka honey, sea salt or even pinot noir. Hand-cut fudge is also popular, especially in small towns like Akaroa and Picton, where sweet shops tempt visitors with fresh samples and locally inspired flavors.
10. Local Art Prints and Stationery
New Zealand’s natural beauty inspires many local artists who capture the scenery in watercolors, photographs and graphic prints. Whether it’s a moody Milford Sound landscape or a bright, stylized tui bird, these artworks are available in both gallery-quality pieces and travel-friendly formats like postcards, journals and calendars. You’ll find these at local markets, galleries and design shops across the country.
Shopping Excursions in New Zealand
These curated excursions combine sightseeing with ample opportunities to explore local boutiques, artisan galleries and cultural crafts:
- Charming Devonport and Auckland’s North Shore
- Spend your day in the historic village of Devonport, known for its wooden colonial buildings, scenic views and boutique shops. Use your free time to browse art galleries, gift stores and cafés. Optional ferry tickets let you extend your shopping time at your own pace.
- Scenic Akaroa Escape
- Stroll through the French-influenced town of Akaroa, lined with charming shops, galleries and bakeries. Known for boutique shopping and colonial charm, it’s the perfect stop for picking up handmade gifts and local treats.
- Hawke’s Bay Panorama
- Enjoy sweeping coastal views and vineyard landscapes before browsing a boutique shopping center and visiting Arataki Honey for tastings and locally made souvenirs. A drive through Napier’s Art Deco district rounds out the tour.
- Marlborough Panorama
- Tour the town of Picton and travel through the Wairau Valley to Blenheim. Stop at The Vines, a boutique collection of artisan shops set on scenic farmland, ideal for finding handcrafted home décor, fashion and regional specialties.
Discover the Best Souvenirs to Bring Home from New Zealand
If you're wondering what to buy in New Zealand, consider treasures like pounamu jewelry, manuka honey, merino wool clothing and locally crafted Māori art. Each item offers a deeper connection to the land, its people and its traditions. Whether you’re sipping wine from Marlborough or admiring a paua shell ornament on your shelf, these New Zealand souvenirs help keep your travel memories alive long after your trip ends.
