This is a great gift store in Newmarket which sells things mainly for males, hip flasks, hunting…read moregear, wallets, that sort of thing. It is only a small shop, but they have some great items inside, and it all looks like really good quality. Of course you have to pay for the quality, but there's no need to be a cheapskate on your gift giving. They have quite a few chess sets for sale here, really beautifully crafted pieces and boards, especially the full table set. These chess sets are actually at quite a good price too, considering how it's so hard to find a good quality one in New Zealand. For the ladies there are some things, but like I said it is a small shop and unless your mum is keen on hunting and/or drinking whiskey I'd probably go somewhere else for her birthday present.

As gifts shops go, this one has little something special. Quirky is how I'd describe it. Inside…read morethere are a ton of presents for people (as described on the shop window) who have everything. This is pretty accurate I thought. The gifts were the kind of cool things that could brighten up someone's day but certainly weren't essential. My absolutely favourite were the money tins. Each tin specified something that warranted paying a fine (putting a coin in the tin). I very nearly bought the farting one for my brother-in-law. Now that I'm home I wish I had. I might have to go back and get it - they were only $7!

This was a beautiful shop! Such a lovely place to buy some New Zealand made items to remember my…read moretrip by. I will recommend this trip to everyone I know!

Mixt Art and Design is one of my favourite places to find great Kiwi inspired gifts and unusual but…read morebrilliant wee retro knick-knacks and decorations. Fantastic embroidery, sculptures, platters, vases, pillows, books and wall decals are just a few of the funky finds that Mixt offers. I recently became obsessed with the wall decals they stock - brightly coloured and incorporating my favourite things - animals and flowers, the decals are also reusable so you can move them around your room without worrying about ripping the paint. What's not to love? Another great thing about Mixt is the price. Though most of the products Mixt stocks are made locally, everything is still really reasonably priced and you can feel good about supporting Kiwi creators too! Having recently relocated to the building right next door, the new Mixt store is spotless and funky and compliments the stock as well as the women that work there. Next time you're looking for that perfect gift, or want to liven up your room, make sure you check out Mixt!

I generally love Superette's bags, shoes and jewellery and there are quite a few pieces of clothing…read moreI would want to add to my wardrobe that come from quirky designers. However, I can not get over the snobby attitude of the unhelpful staff in this store and can't bring myself to make a purchase. Would much rather nip across to the Posonsby store where I found the staff to be helpful and smiling or to other stores such as Made or Black Box just to avoid dealing with stand-offish characters.

A mildly interesting store which stocks an impressive range of local and international designers. I…read morefeel like I wouldn't get along with people who shop here. I've bought a few Deadly Ponies handbags from this place but mostly because I can't be bothered to find out who else stocks them. In general I find the pieces here to be a mixed bag.. either cool designs from up and coming labels or overpriced basics. Which is a shame because I remember a few years ago thinking that Superette used to stock the coolest stuff, or maybe it was just labels releasing cooler clothes. Now whenever I think of Superette I just think of it as the place where EGGS girls come to buy their party dresses. This place stocks 'unique' stuff for the masses of bunheaded girls who want to spice up their Glassons outfits.

This is one of my favorite stores to visit for interior inspiration. Tesori has elegant products…read moredirectly imported from Europe hand selected by the owners and the store layout and window displays are like something out of an interiors magazine. Tesori has beautiful accent pieces from chandeliers to vases as well as mirrors and art work. There is a large range of kitchen staples such as glass storage jars and an outdoor area which has vintage looking lanterns and other interesting pieces. There is always something new in store so best to check in often as there are small quantities or often one off pieces that may be gone if you don't snap them up straight away.

My wife and I have enjoyed many lovely hours wondering through this store and we have brought some…read morebeautiful French antiques and other very unique pieces which has added that extra special something to our home. The store owners are friendly, helpful and offer excellent advice. This is our favourite store!

I'm a fan of Trade Aid, and the High Street shop is a tiny peace of ethical heaven in the middle of…read morethe CBD. They seem to have crammed everything they fit into the larger shops in this tiny one - namely jewellery and hair accessories, cards and giftwrap, musical instruments, soap, ornaments, toys, gifts, cushions, rugs, bags...the list seems endless. Some of my favourite things to buy from Trade Aid are the chocolate bars, which have a delicious and distinct flavour, and the coffee and spices. Much-appreciated gifts I've given from Trade Aid have included platters and placemats.

Growing up in a home decorated with sculptures, rugs and artsy items I love trade aid. One day…read moreafter uni I was walking to Britomart with my bed on my mind then I saw these basket items in a shop window. I decided to go into the shop because I suddenly remembered that I needed something. Whatever it was I was certain this store with awesome baskets in the window would have it. I walked into the store and it felt like I was back home in the markets as I was surronded by so many cushion covers, beads and essence. I was in heaven and all my thoughts about my bed faded. After I browsed around the shop I learnt that the shop was all about fair trade! It only felt right to walk out with a few coin pouches and chocolate, you never know when it might come in handy. This place is perfect when you are struggling to find a present for that one friend who is hard to shop for.

Askew is the epitome of designer goods: hand-picked items including children's school bags, Alessi…read morekitchenware, timeless gift cards, luggage, clutch purses, jewellery, moleskin notebooks etc... When I want a unique or quirky present, I always go to Askew. On the quiet, I have purchased a lot of secret gifts for myself too (love my kimono key ring). Great, personable service, who talk to you like a human being. Hurrah! Parking all around, open long hours. I encourage YOU to check Askew (Ponsonby) out if you haven't already...super stylish store that offers luxury, and you 'feel' valued! Quite uncommon in modern life.

Beautiful, beautiful store full of locally made goodies for the home. Candles, terrariums…read more(obviously), lingerie and artwork. The store isn't huge but you can tell that they've carefully selected everything that is in there and it appears to be up-and-coming brands as opposed to the well-known ones, which I love. They also seem to have a good relationship with all the makers. The lovely lady behind the counter knew about each of them and they've got their business cards on the countertop for you to take home. I spied these two incredible dog portraits, one of a labby and the other a bulldog (?), and being a new doggie mum myself wanted to know if she was based in Auckland and did commission work. The lady informed me that she did and gave me a business card to take home - brilliant!

Love places that support NZ products! Some things they stock include beautiful leather handbags and…read morewallets, Mackinven&co candles (which are my absolute fav), art (amazing dog photography) and then of course an array of terrariums. Great spot to pick up a present and the girls who own the place are so helpful!

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!