I had a disappointing experience with this store…read more I received my order and immediately noticed that the clothes had a very strong fragrance smell. Given that I ordered premium organic children's clothing, this was quite concerning and contrary to what many parents expect - minimal processing and no added scents. They also sell diffusers and candles, which may explain the scent contamination. I emailed the same day I received the package to request a return and refund. It then took a full week to receive a response, which simply instructed me to return the items to a warehouse address, with no clear process. I replied the same day asking reasonable questions -such as the warehouse opening hours, whether I could drop the items off in person. It has now been another week with no response. This was also confusing because their company policy states that online orders can be returned to any of their retail stores. This would have been far more convenient, as they have multiple locations with set opening hours and staff available, so you know you can actually speak to someone and have the return handled properly. Overall, the lack of communication, slow response times, and inconsistency with their stated return policy have been very frustrating. For a brand positioning itself as premium, I expected much better customer service and handling of returns. I would also caution other parents who prefer unscented, minimally treated baby clothing to keep this in mind when ordering.

Father Rabbit is the absolute best. It seriously turns me into a gushing 16 year old. They've got…read morebeautiful, beautiful homewares, candles, children's clothing and there's a small amount of adult clothing too. This store is larger than their Ponsonby one and is located inside Bloc, which is dangerous in itself. But back to F.R, the brands they stock are all seriously stunning - lots of whites, neutrals and soft pastels.... it's my dream to make my house look like this one day... Not surprisingly, Father Rabbit has become my go-to for gifts. It isn't outrageously expensive and they've got a wide range of products, something for everyone. Check it out next time you're in Mt Eden....the ultimate one stop shop.

Hammer Hardware is a very rare type of chain store. By that I mean that it feels like anything but…read morea chain store. It is one of those places that you can guarantee you'll be greeted by amazing staff all over the country. Hammer Hardware's slogan is 'It's your local' and I couldn't agree more. Other than being a staple in even the smallest of towns in NZ, all the guys who work there feel like one of your neighbours who's door you can knock on whenever you need a hand. I love my local HH. Generally I walk in and just stand there looking around until someone comes to my rescue. The place is jam-packed with stuff, with everything, so it can be tricky to find stuff - especially when you describe something as 'that doodacky thing that screws those little bumpy things'. Somehow these guys always know what i'm talking about. Love Hammer Hardware - head in an support these little guys. They need protecting from those massive warehouse places!

Citta design is made here in New Zealand, even though "Citta" is Greek…read more Located in GreyLynn, sandwiched between Farro Fresh and Bread & Butter Bakery. Parking very convenient, just outside the shop. Citta is brimming with homewares, crockery, linen, furniture (sofas, chairs, tables) clothing, soaps and hand-creams. Also beautiful candles, gift ideas and glassware. Staff are friendly: speak to you, as you enter the shop. Nice one. Everything in the store is stylish, practical and aesthetically pleasing!

Who would have thought a small clearance store in Parnell would have lasted long? Years ago, when M…read moreClearance first opened, I was convinced it was just a pop-up store. To see them still trading today is like watch a uplifting Disney under-dog story. M Clearance stock housewares and glassware, so is a great place to buy cheap but quality wine glasses. And you don't have to know the difference between Swarovski or Zwiesel. Just honest and decent products, with cheerful service usually reserved for outside of the Parnell suburb. If you are growing up and moving from being a student into "in a relationship" M Clearance is a great place to get some reasonable kitchenware. Or if you have recently moved into the fancier side of town and have just been made aware of the difference between a red wine glass and a stein, you can step up your game here without breaking the bank.

Noel Leeming in Newmarket is a spacious store, that stocks a wide range of technology/gaming and…read moreelectrical appliances and/or equipment. I had a great experience recently, when I popped into the Noel Leeming store, trying to find a XBOX 360 game, having sold out in other outlets and they had one!!! All the staff were helpful, ascertained where the product was, communicated really well and then offered to get the item for me, while I wait! Fantastic customer service! They are a 'one stop shop' really selling smart phones, tablets, TVs, DVDs, fridges, kitchen appliances, everything I think. Great sales too!

Stevens is a New Zealand owned kitchen and dining ware store. It's a great place to pick-up a…read morenovelty item or something more functional for your own kitchen or as a gift. They stock a nice range of Maxwell & Williams and Joseph & Joseph products that are great for every-day use. Best of all, they rock some amazing all-year round sales! The service is always great too.

This gift shop in Mairangi Bay gets a thumbs up for always having something new, you've got to be…read morequick if you see something. Beautifully stocked with decorative pieces for your home and things that ladies love - candles, jewellery, handbags. This is where I come for that special gift for a friend and maybe a little something for myself.

Even when I don't plan to have a browse at this shop I always end up stopping in for a quick snoop…read more The staff here cleverly arrange a display outside, which is guaranteed to catch your eye! There's funky cushions and tables and accessories and because of these things I'm always tempted inside. This shop isn't that big but inside is packed with lots of wonderful goodies. The prices aren't extremely affordable and I think it would be possible to find similar kinds of things elsewhere for a cheaper price, but if you wanted to treat yourself or a friend, or you were after something simply amazing and of great quality then head along to Spoilt and spoil yourself!

Chambers offers a good mix of luxury gift and homeware items with relatively affordable pieces. The…read morebusiness is actually split in two, each store a few steps apart on the same side of Ponsonby Road: one offers candles, glassware, bowls and furniture etc while the other focuses more on linen and bedding. I can always go in with a gift or occasion in mind and find something that will fit my budget... as well as a lot of things that won't! Regardless, on a road where things tend to ere on the side of over-priced, Chambers is a good starting point for homeware and gifts.