Best New Zealand Souvenirs: 53 Things You’ll Love

Your Guide to the Best New Zealand souvenirs

If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, you’re in for a real treat. From the stunning scenery to the rich culture, this beautiful country is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. And what better way to remember your adventures than by bringing home a few New Zealand souvenirs?

The perfect New Zealand souvenir should remind you of your awesome trip to New Zealand! 

When choosing NZ souvenirs, you might want useful, everyday things, quirky bits of culture,  or something you’ll cherish and save for special occasions. 

No matter what you’re looking for, you want to go home with the best souvenirs New Zealand offers, to help you remember your New Zealand vacation.

But let’s be real: shopping for souvenirs can be a bit of a hassle. You don’t want to waste your precious time and money on trinkets that will end up collecting dust on a shelf. 

That’s where this guide comes in! I traveled to New Zealand with my family, and between the five of us, we bought practically all the best souvenirs this country has to offer. (Really, we bought a lot!)

In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my top picks for the best souvenirs to buy in New Zealand. Whether you’re looking for NZ gifts for friends and family or just a little something for yourself, I’ve got you covered. 

If you’re looking for something fun and touristy or an iconic item that New Zealanders actually use, you’ll find it on this list of the best souvenirs from New Zealand. 

So sit back, relax, and let’s go shopping!

Here are 53 fantastic New Zealand things to buy!

New Zealand Souvenir Shopping: Best things to buy in New Zealand

Here’s a list of souvenirs New Zealand visitors love. No matter what your taste, style, or budget, you’ll find something for yourself (plus your friends and family back home) on this comprehensive list of souvenirs from New Zealand.

Unique New Zealand Souvenirs

1. Maori carvings and art

Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, have a rich cultural heritage. Beautiful Maori wood carvings and art, including pendants, sculptures, and paintings, are a popular souvenir. Maori artwork is one of the most cherished New Zealand gifts.

Look for dried pressed ferns that are framed or mounted on cards, fern sculptures and carvings, and fern-themed home décor. You’ll also find fern-shaped pendants, earrings, and other jewelry.

2. Fern souvenirs

The fern is an iconic symbol of New Zealand, and it is often associated with the country’s natural beauty and indigenous culture.

Ferns are abundant in the New Zealand wilderness and can be found in many different environments, from lush rainforests to rugged alpine landscapes. 

The silver fern, also known as the ponga, is one of the most recognizable species of fern in New Zealand . It is featured on many official logos and used by many sports teams to represent national pride.

The silver fern is a common motif in traditional Maori carving, and is a symbol of New Zealand’s indigenous culture. 

3. Kiwiana-themed products

Kiwiana is a term used to describe the unique popular culture and heritage of New Zealand.  Think Kiwi kitsch.

Kiwiana-themed products, including T-shirts, are things like the Buzzy Bee pull toy or These products can be purchased at souvenir shops, markets, and gift stores throughout New Zealand.

4. New Zealand Flags

Flags are always cool. If you’re looking for a New Zealand gift for teenagers, buy a NZ flag. 

5. Pukeko Poo and Sheep Droppings

Don’t worry! These aren’t real! But these poop-ular candies will be a hit with anyone on your gift list who likes a good gag gift!

6. New Zealand Books

While traveling, I love browsing bookstores. I always pick up books at used bookstores, art museums, and gift shops. I’m also likely to bring back multiple recipe books. 

Buying independent presses and local publishing houses is a great way to buy local and ensures you can get the books you want. Books may not be lightweight, but at least they’re small! So I think they’re worth it!

7. Lord of the Rings props

At Weta Cave in Wellington and Hobbiton near Matamata, you can buy a variety of LOTR prop replicas, like elf ears. Also look for Lord of the Rings jewelry (one ring, perhaps?). You’ll find plenty of maps, books, models, and other souvenirs. These are perfect gifts for any Tolkien fans!

8. Holiday ornaments

Having a souvenir ornament to remind you of a special vacation is always fun. If you’re celebrating a birthday, wedding, honeymoon, or other life event, choose an ornament with that theme.

We like to pick an ornament for each person in our family that represents their favorite thing about the country. These little souvenirs are small and easy to pack, but really bring back the memories.

If you don’t celebrate Christmas, you can just hang the ornament in a special place to remind you yearround of your New Zealand trip. 

9. New Zealand Timber Products

New Zealand has a rich history of wood carving and wooden products, such as cutting boards, salad bowls, and spoons, are popular souvenirs. You’ll also find lovely wooden souvenirs and figurines. Choose gifts made of native New Zealand woods. 

10. Māori Tā moko Designs

Tā moko is a traditional Māori form of tattooing and designs are often incorporated into souvenirs such as t-shirts, bags, and other clothing items. 

11. Fridge magnets

Refrigerator magnets a classic souvenir idea, no matter where you’re traveling. But New Zealand souvenir magnets are extra cool because you won’t find them anywhere outside of New Zealand.

They might not mean much to anyone who sees them on your fridge, but they’ll spark memories each time you look at them. Remember that time you got lost in rural New Zealand? 

12. Postcards

Another classic. You could take postcards home as a souvenir or mail them to your friends and family. 

13. Stickers

Also small, portable, and unique. New Zealand flag stickers or ones that say “Kia ora” are a great choice.

Look for locally made stickers with cute or interesting designs, as well as promotional stickers for NZ businesses. No one else back home will have stickers like those. Unique stickers make great gifts for teens.

14. Enamel pins

You can buy enamel pins with unique New Zealand designs in New Zealand souvenir shops. They’re inexpensive, lightweight, and found only in New Zealand, making them the perfect gift for a tween or teen (or anyone, really).

15. Money

This is a great way to use up your last New Zealand dollars—just call your remaining cash a souvenir and take it home.

We love looking at the art work on different countries’ currency. New Zealand money is lovely, so take some with you when you leave. 

New Zealand Home goods

16. Kiwiana Art Prints 

Art prints depicting iconic Kiwiana images are a popular souvenir. They can be found in art galleries, gift shops and online. Look for prints and posters that represent things you’ve particularly loved about New Zealand. 

17. Tea Towels

You’ll feel the British influence in New Zealand at all turns. But you’ll certainly see it in the country’s fondness for dishtowels. They seem to be in every souvenir shop.

I love dishtowels as souvenirs because they’re lightweight and easy to pack. Tea towels pack a bit graphic punch. And, you can use them everyday. 

I personally love the ones with a New Zealand map. Using them reminds me of our trip, and they make great gifts. 

18. Cookbooks

The Great New Zealand Cookbook 

The Great New Zealand Cook Book features more than 200 favorite New Zealand recipes.

The Great New Zealand Birthday Cake Book

The Great New Zealand Birthday Cake Book features 80 fabulous special-occasion cakes!

The Great New Zealand Baking Book

The Great New Zealand Baking Book has recipes for all the sweet and savory baked goods Kiwis love.

Edmonds Cookery Book

The Edmonds Cookery Book has been a staple of New Zealand kitchens for more than 100 years. This updated version has all the classic recipes you’ll need to replicate New Zealand cuisine at home.

19. Reusable shopping bags and totes

If you didn’t bring a reusable shopping bag to New Zealand, you might as well buy one.

Loads of stores expect you to bring your own bags, and it’s the environmentally-friendly thing to do. Buy a shopping tote as a practical souvenir and keep using it once you get home. 

Clothing, Fashion, and textile gifts

20. Sheepskin products

Sheep are an important part of New Zealand’s agriculture and economy, and sheepskin products, including sheepskin rugs, slippers, and jackets, are a popular souvenir.

Sheepskins might be one of the most famous products made in New Zealand, and a sheepskin rug is a classic NZ souvenir.

21. Merino wool products

Merino wool is prized for its softness and warmth. New Zealand is a major producer of Merino wool.

Merino wool clothing products can be purchased at outdoor clothing stores (like Icebreaker) or at souvenir shops and markets throughout New Zealand.  

 Look for scarves, gloves, hats, socks, blankets, and throws, plus yarn, if you like to knit or crochet. 

22. Possum fur gloves, hats, and scarves

Possums were introduced to New Zealand from Australia and are now considered a pest. Possum fur has a hollow core which creates exceptionally warm and light-weight yarn. 

We love our possum fur gloves and hat. They are actually a blend of possum fur and wool from merino sheep.

They are incredibly soft and warm. My hands are always cold, but not in these gloves! Also, they fit my hands better than most gloves. 

If you’re visiting NZ in the winter, you’ll start wearing them right away! Hands down (no pun intended), possum gloves are one of the best souvenirs from New Zealand.

23. New Zealand-made clothing

If you like to shop, or if you’re traveling with teens who like to shop, you’ll find plenty of options in New Zealand.

In every city, you’ll find nice boutiques with high-quality New Zealand clothing lines. You’ll also find plenty of less expensive stores with trendy items.

And, of course, in New Zealand, there are plenty of outdoors stores selling trekking, surfing, and backpacking gear.

When traveling, I really like buying the brands the locals wear. And it’s fun to go home and have clothes no one else is wearing!

24. Swanndri Shirts

These Kiwi bush shirts, favored by New Zealand farmers, are made of wool. They come in various colors and styles, but the most popular is red and black checked. Some even have a hood.

Swanndri shirts are warm and provide the perfect protection from the cold and damp New Zealand weather. These practical, long-wearing kiwi souvenirs will remind of you NZ for years!

25. Textiles made from flax leaves

Maori people used flax leaves to make traditional Maori weavings, an important part of New Zealand’s cultural heritage.

Flax leaves are used to make items such as baskets, mats, and bags, as well as woven panels used to decorate meeting houses and other important buildings in the Maori community. 

Kete bags are traditional Maori woven bags that were originally used for practical purposes such as carrying food, personal items, and other essentials. Today, kete bags are often used for decorative purposes and are popular as souvenirs and gifts.

They are typically made in a range of sizes and designs and can be plain or decorated with intricate patterns. Kete bags are all handmade, so they make unique gifts from New Zealand.

26. All Blacks Rugby Jersey 

The All Blacks are New Zealand’s national rugby team. You probably know the All Blacks because of their intimidating and impressive huka dance.

All Blacks jerseys are a popular souvenir for sports fans. If you need a gift for a sports lover, an All Blacks Jersey is the right New Zealand gift. 

If you don’t want an actual jersey, you’ll also find hats, socks, toys, mugs, keyrings, stickers, and towels with the All Blacks logo. 

27. Jandals (flip-flops)

Jandals, or flip-flops, are a popular and iconic piece of Kiwi culture. Because they’re so ubiquitous, Jandals are a popular souvenir for tourists. They’re also quite practical if you’ll be spending any time at a NZ beach. Jandals can be purchased pretty much anywhere throughout New Zealand.

28. Gumboots

Gumboots, or Wellingtons, are a New Zealand classic! In New Zealand’s damp and rainiy climate, gumboots are a practical solution for keeping feet dry.

Gumboots are a a symbol of the country’s rugged, outdoor lifestyle. They have become popular as a fashion item and come in a variety of colors and patterns.

29. Hats

If you didn’t bring a hat to New Zealand, you’ll want to buy one, whether for sun protection or warmth in the winter. This souvenir will be practical on your travels and when you return home. 

30. New Zealand T-shirts

You can’t go wrong with a good souvenir T-shirt! You’ll find plenty of different designs to suit any style.

T-shirts are one of the best gifts from New Zealand because they come in a variety of styles. A “Sweet as” t-shirt will work for almost anyone on your list!

New Zealand skincare and beauty products

New New Zealand is known for its high-quality, natural skincare products made from locally sourced ingredients. 

31. New Zealand skincare brands

• Trilogy – Trilogy is a natural skincare brand that uses ingredients such as rosehip oil and manuka honey in its products.

• Antipodes – Antipodes is an organic skincare brand that uses ingredients such as avocado oil, manuka honey, and kiwifruit in its products.

• Ethique – Ethique is a zero-waste skincare brand that uses ingredients such as coconut oil and cocoa butter in its shampoo bars, moisturizers, lipsticks, and more.

• Olive  – Olive offers a range of products for face and body, including cleansers, moisturizers, and serums, all of which are eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, and other harmful chemicals.

• Triumph & Disaster – Triumph & Disaster is a New Zealand-based skincare brand that offers a range of grooming products for men. Triumph & Disaster’s products include shaving creams, face washes, and moisturizers, made with natural ingredients like kawakawa, horopito, and jojoba. 

32. Mineral Mud

Mineral mud is sourced from New Zealand’s many geothermal areas, including Rotorua. It is supposed to be particularly beneficial for the skin, helping to nourish and hydrate it.

Jars of mineral mud are a fun souvenir, either to use for yourself or to give as gifts to friends and family.

Whether or not mineral mud has the specific therapeutic benefits that are claimed is still a matter of debate, but the mud remains a popular and unique souvenir. 

33. New Zealand Lavender Products

New Zealand is known for its high-quality lavender fields and products such as soaps, lotions, and candles are popular souvenirs. They can be found in gift shops, health food stores, and online.

Best New Zealand souvenirs for young children        

34. Buzzy Bee Toy

This beloved NZ toy is made of wood and painted bright, cheery colors. Children pull the toy, and the wings click and turn.

This classic toy has been beloved by kiwi kids for generations now. The wooden buzzy bee is simple and sweet, just like childhood should be. 

35. Kiwi Plush Toy

The kiwi bird is a national symbol of New Zealand and a popular souvenir in the form of a soft toy (aka, stuffed animal). They can be found in many gift shops, airports and tourist areas.

36. Toy Sheep

You’ll see sheep all over New Zealand, so taking one home with you might seem like an obvious idea. If you’re traveling with a small child, this will make a great lovey for the trip. 

37. New Zealand Children’s books

Buy children’s books about New Zealand for any children traveling with you or as great gifts for little ones back home. Children’s books are a great introduction to other cultures and places. 

New Zealand jewelry souvenirs

38. Paua shell jewelry

Paua is a type of abalone found in New Zealand waters, and is known for its iridescent and colorful shell.

These beautiful shells are made into jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Paua is a popular souvenir and can be purchased at souvenir shops, jewelry stores, and markets throughout New Zealand. You’ll also see Paua shell used for coasters and other souvenirs.

39. New Zealand Greenstone (Jade) 

New Zealand greenstone or jade is a type of nephrite stone found in New Zealand.  You’ll find greenstone made into pendants, earrings, bracelets, and other jewelry.

It’s also often carved into sculptures. Greenstone jewelry can be found in gift shops and jewelry stores across New Zealand. Jade is the number one jewelry souvenir New Zealand visitors take home. Choose jade necklaces or earrings–either way, you’ll have a souvenir you’ll cherish forever.

40. Traditional Maori Pendant 

Often made from greenstone, traditional Maori carvings make the perfect gift from New Zealand.

Each shape has a different meaning. For example, a pikorua, or twist, symbolizes the connection between loved ones, friends, or family.

A hei matau, or hook, is a symbol strength and protection while traveling.

These pendants are a popular New Zealand souvenir, and they are a great gift for someone at home. 

New Zealand food souvenirs

Food might be my favorite of all the souvenirs of New Zealand we purchased!

41. New Zealand wine

New Zealand is known for its high-quality wine, particularly its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir varietals. Excellent New Zealand wine can be purchased at supermarkets, liquor stores, and wine shops throughout New Zealand.

You can also buy it when visiting vineyards in the many different wine regions of New Zealand. You can have it shipped directly to you. (If you are in the US, check your state laws.)

42. New Zealand cheese

New Zealand is known for its high-quality dairy products.  Cheese from New Zealand, including cheddar, feta, and gouda, is a popular souvenir.

Cheese can be purchased at supermarkets, specialty food stores, and markets throughout New Zealand.

43. New Zealand tea

There is one New Zealand tea estate (Zealaong in Waikato), and their tea is fantastic.

Additionally, there are several companies that import tea and blend it with New Zealand ingredients.

These unique tea blends often feature flavors of New Zealand. Look for tea in tea shops or at the grocery store. 

44. New Zealand coffee

New Zealand is known for its specialty coffee culture. As you might expect, there are several coffee roasters in the country that focus on producing high-quality, artisanal coffee.

Some popular New Zealand coffee roasters include:

• Allpress Espresso – Established in 1986 and based in Auckland, Allpress is a well-known coffee roaster that sources its beans from small, sustainable coffee farms around the world. They roast their coffee in small batches to bring out the unique flavor profile of each bean.

• Flight Coffee – Founded in Wellington in 2008, Flight Coffee is a specialty coffee roaster that focuses on sourcing high-quality beans and roasting them to perfection. They offer a range of single origin and blended coffees, as well as cold brew and Nitro coffee.

• Atomic Coffee Roasters – Based in Auckland, Atomic Coffee Roasters is a specialty coffee roaster that sources its beans from some of the best coffee-growing regions around the world. They roast their coffee on a weekly basis to ensure that their customers always have access to fresh, high-quality coffee.

• Switch Espresso – Based in Christchurch, Switch Espresso is a specialty coffee roaster that sources its beans from around the world. They roast their coffee in small batches to bring out the unique flavor profile of each bean.

• Pomeroy’s Old Brewery Inn – Located in Christchurch, Pomeroy’s Old Brewery Inn is a coffee roaster and cafe that offers a range of artisanal coffee blends and single origin coffees. They also serve a variety of food and beverages, making it a great spot for a coffee break.

45. ANZAC biscuits

Anzac biscuits are sweet oat cookies. Both Australia and New Zealand claim to have invented them, and they’re a classic in both countries. The good news is, you can try different varieties to find your favorite!

46. Griffin’s biscuits

Founded in 1864, Griffin’s is one of the oldest and most well-known biscuit brands in New Zealand. They offer a wide range of biscuits, including classic favorites like Digestive and Shortbread, as well as more unique flavors like Choc-O-Block and Ginger Nuts.

47. Manuka Honey 

Manuka honey is produced from the nectar of the manuka bush, also known as the tea tree, which is native to New Zealand.

Known for its antibacterial properties, Manuka honey is used to treat a variety of conditions, including wounds, skin infections, and digestive problems.

Manuka honey is also high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known to be effective in soothing sore throats and improving digestive health. Its natural antibacterial qualities make it quite special. 

Manuka honey can be found in local grocery stores as well as at gift shops. 

48. Whittaker’s chocolate

In my personal opinion, Whittaker’s chocolate is absolutely one of the best NZ souvenirs! Oh my gosh, this chocolate is so good. When we were in New Zealand, we ate a block a day! 

Whittaker’s chocolate is made from high quality cocoa beans sourced from around the world. The bars are made with classic flavors as well as flavors that reflect New Zealand’s culture and traditions. 

You will want to take this New Zealand chocolate home with you. And if you have friends you really, really, really like, you might decide to share your Whittaker’s chocolate with them. Maybe. 

You can find Whittaker’s at local supermarkets.

49. Marmite

Marmite is a savory spread made from yeast extract and is a staple food in New Zealand. It’s similar to Vegemite, which is popular in Australia. You should probably take a jar home, just so everyone who tries it can exclaim how terrible it is. Marmite is definitely an acquired taste. 

50. Pascall candy

This is the ideal gift for someone with a sweet tooth! You have to try the pineapple lumps—chewy pineapple centers covered with smooth milk Chocolate. 

51. Hokey pokey

Hokey pokey is a type of honeycomb toffee. You can find hokey pokey chocolate bars made by Whittaker’s, Cadbury, and other candy makers. 

Hokey pokey is a popular flavor of ice cream in New Zealand, but you won’t be able to bring hokey pokey ice cream home, sadly.

52. Jaffa

Jaffa a popular dark chocolate-covered candy filled with orange-flavored jelly. The sweet and tangy tastes complement each other deliciously. Jaffa is a staple of New Zealand confectionary. 

53. Peanut Butter

You might not put peanut butter at the top of your list of things to buy in New Zealand, but you’d be missing out. Try these delicious brands and bring some home with you. 

• Fix & Fogg – Fix & Fogg is a Wellington-based company that is known for its high-quality and all-natural peanut butters. They offer a range of flavors, including smooth, crunchy, and chocolatey.

• Pic’s – Pic’s Peanut Butter uses New Zealand-grown peanuts. They offer a range of flavors, including classic, chocolate, and honey, and their products are free from preservatives and additives. You can tour the Pic’s Peanut Butter Factory in Nelson, on the South Island. 

New Zealand travel guide with travel tips

Where to buy Souvenirs in New Zealand

High Street Souvenir Shops

In any tourist town, you’ll find a selection of souvenir shops on the main shopping street. There’s a New Zealand gift shop in every touristy area, whether you’re on the North Island or South Island. 

Museum gift shops

My personal favorite place to buy high-quality goods that you probably won’t find in your home country. I skip anything featuring mega-artists who aren’t local, and buy souvenirs that reflect the city or region. 

Vistor Information Centres

Whether the tourist center for a city or town or a national park visitor center, you’re sure to find high-quality local crafts, artwork, and foods. Plus, these usually have a decent selection of kids’ gifts.            

Grocery stores

Obviously, grocery stores are a great place to buy food souvenirs. But you’ll also find other items that locals actually use!

Maori Cultural Centers

If you want authentic Maori art, and want to be sure the proceeds go to the artists and community, buy your Maori souvenirs at a cultural center (like Te Puia). If you’re looking for traditional New Zealand gifts and Maori artwork look in Maoir cultural museums. 

Art Galleries

If you’re looking for some truly one-of-a-kind artwork, local art galleries will be the place to go. You’ll find these in larger cities of course, but even in out of the way places, like Hot Water Beach!

Weta Cave and Hobbiton

Lord of the Rings Fans and devotees of The Hobbit will find the best selection of souvenirs at Hobbiton and Weta Workshop. You’ll see maps of Middle Earth, movie props, and a certain ring for sale.

Online Gift Shops

You can buy New Zealand souvenirs online. Some gift shops have online sites. This will make it easier for you to ship items to the US, rather than having to haul them in your luggage. 

Airport shops

They might be pricier than other gift shops, but, hey, it’s your last chance to grab some Kiwiana!

How to save money on souvenirs in New Zealand

Shop where locals shop

Buy your New Zealand gifts at local craft fairs or farmers markets. Shop in grocery stores for NZ food souvenirs. And buy New Zealand clothing or shoes in a local department store. 

Buy quirky NZ gifts and souvenirs

New Zealanders have a great sense of humor and there’s a lot of fun quirkiness behind Kiwiana trinkets. You don’t have to spend a load of money on souvenirs. Some of the cheapest things to buy in New Zealand are just small, funny things only found in New Zealand. 

Buy NZ things that aren’t souvenirs 

Look for things that aren’t souvenirs per se, but that represent your New Zealand adventure. Buy authentic New Zealand things that a local would buy. Traditional New Zealand products that Kiwis use every day make great non-traditional souvenirs of New Zealand. 

Purchase your NZ gifts before you get to the airport

Everyone knows airport shopping is going to be expensive!

Final thoughts on what souvenirs to buy in New Zealand

When choosing what to buy in New Zealand, take your time to find unique souvenirs that represent the country’s rich culture and history.  Choose N Z souvenirs that will help you recall your New Zealand experience. 

When at all possible, support local businesses while buying New Zealand gifts and souvenirs. Consider buying souvenirs from local artisans, craft markets, and small businesses to support the local economy. By doing so, you’re likely to find a unique gift that’s just right for the recipient.

When buying Maori or greenstone (jade) products, ensure that they are authentic and ethically sourced.

Be aware of customs regulations when traveling with food items. Check if there are any restrictions on bringing certain items back to your home country.

If you’re unable to bring souvenirs back with you, consider shipping souvenirs home as a cost-effective alternative.

I recommend that when you see something you really like, buy it. While some things can be found seemingly everywhere in New Zealand, that’s not actually true for all New Zealand themed gifts and souvenirs. Save yourself any regrets—if you like it, buy it when you see it!

In New Zealand what to buy might be a hard decision, because you’ll have too many choices!

Above all, choose gifts that make you happy!