If you’re looking for the best New Zealand gifts to surprise your nearest and dearest with a touch of Kiwi magic, you’re in for a treat. We’ve searched through the land of hobbits, breathtaking landscapes, and an irresistible accent that could make a sheep blush to bring you the 25 best New Zealand souvenirs and gifts that will leave your loved ones saying, “Sweet as, mate!”
From cheeky Kiwi-themed goodies to enchanting Maori-inspired creations, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive into the world of unforgettable gift-giving from Aotearoa.
Are you short on time? Check out the editor’s top three gifts from New Zealand by budget.
- Large budget: Whittaker’s chocolate box (#2)
- Mid budget: Manuka honey (#8)
- Small budget: Kiwi slang playing cards (#19)
Table of Contents
Save these Kiwiana gifts
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New Zealand gifts for large budgets
#1 New Zealand gifts for fashionistas
Are you looking for true Kiwiana gifts for a fashionista? Then anything from a Kiwi fashion brand should work.
Allbirds is a sustainable brand that provides beautiful shoes and sporty/casual clothing.
The Stolen Girlfriends Club is a great brand for people who love rebellious outfits.
#2 Whittaker’s chocolate
Whittaker’s is a super popular chocolate manufacturer from New Zealand.
The company was established back in 1911 in New Zealand and has never left the industry since.
Even though cacao is not grown in New Zealand (they actually import that from Ghana), Whittaker’s has been awarded New Zealand’s most loved brand several years in a row. Which is why this Whittaker’s box of chocolate is one of the best gifts from New Zealand for locals who moved aboard as well as for foreigners to introduce them to the delicious taste of New Zealand.
And of course, it’s the best gift on this list for chocolate lovers.
#3 Merino wool shirt
If you are looking for typical gifts from New Zealand, then anything from Merino Wool is perfect, such as this sweater from Icebreaker.
Merino wool comes from the Merino sheep that graze in the highlands of New Zealand. It’s known for its odor-absorbing qualities and for the fact that it’s thinner and softer than regular wool. This makes it comfortable to wear directly on your skin.
Fun fact about merino wool from New Zealand.
Sheep farming is a big industry in New Zealand. It is estimated that New Zealand has about 10 sheep for every New Zealander!
#4 Map of New Zealand
I included a few cool home decor items in this New Zealand gift guide, such as this vintage map of New Zealand. Though head over to Etsy for maps in all shapes, colors, and sizes.
#5 Something rugby-related
Rugby is the most popular sport in New Zealand. So if you are looking for New Zealand gifts for men who love sports, and more specifically, rugby, anything from The All Blacks (New Zealand’s national team) is perfect!
You can check out all merchandise items at The All Blacks Shop, or go for the team’s jersey from Amazon.
#6 Kiwi gift baskets
Get them ready for some Kiwi-tastic fun with this New Zealand souvenir gift box. It includes the legendary Whitakers Chocolate, the sweetest taste of New Zealand (check gift #2 for more Whitakers gift ideas), some coasters adorned with the iconic silver fern, a cap that fits all sizes (even if you have a massive noggin), a funky fridge magnet, a Pukeko pen (yes, a pen inspired by a bird), a can holder to keep their bevvies chilled, and a glass souvenir that proudly displays the silver fern.
So whether you need New Zealand gift ideas for a birthday, Mother’s Day, or just a gift to yourself, this box is a true Kiwi delight.
#7 New Zealand-themed phone case
This New Zealand gift guide includes a gift for everyone, including people who are addicted to their phones.
Because what’s a better gift for a phone addict, than a phone case with a New Zealand theme?
You can find nearly 1000 different options on Zazzle. I really like the one with the New Zealand silver fern because it’s such a typical New Zealand symbol.
New Zealand gifts for mid budgets
#8 Manuka honey
Manuka honey is one of the most typical souvenirs from New Zealand.
The honey is special because it’s made by bees who use the nectar of the flowers of the Manuka tree. This tree is native to New Zealand and has been used in traditional medicine by the Maori for ages. Manuka honey has also been used for medical purposes and it’s said to have many health benefits and stop bacterial growth.
#9 New Zealand cookbooks
The Great New Zealand Cookbook: The food we love from 80 of our finest cooks, chefs, and bakers
This is one of the best New Zealand gift ideas for foodies. A cookbook with recipes from the most famous Kiwi food experts!
Māori Cookbook – Uncover the Rich and Diverse Flavors of New Zealand
The “Māori Cookbook” is the perfect New Zealand gift for those seeking to explore the rich and diverse flavors of Māori cuisine. This collection showcases traditional and authentic Māori recipes that have been passed down through generations.
Eat Up New Zealand: Recipes and Stories
“Eat Up New Zealand” is packed with mouthwatering food photography and breathtaking scenic shots that capture the essence of Kiwi cuisine and the beauty of the country. From classic Kiwi dishes like roast lamb and pies to delectable desserts featuring feijoa and tamarillo, this is the perfect book for everyday cooking or entertaining.
#10 New Zealand-themed travel mugs
Are you looking for Kiwiana gifts for someone who loves coffee?
Then one of the 271 different New Zealand-themed travel mugs on Zazzle is the gift you need.
I loved the one with the kiwi bird and fruit combined, but head over to Zazzle for more options!
#11 New Zealand-themed wall art
This is another one of the beautiful home decor items in this New Zealand gift guide; a vintage travel poster of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Though check out Etsy for plenty more designs.
#12 New Zealand beauty products
Are you looking for the best New Zealand souvenirs for her?
Then beauty products from New Zealand are the perfect gift for you!
For example this night cream from the brand Natural. It’s made in New Zealand and includes coconut oil, hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E, Rosehip Oil, and Argan Oil.
#13 New Zealand-themed passport cover
Are you looking for practical New Zealand gifts for travelers?
Then one of the 122 New Zealand-themed passport covers on Zazzle is the perfect gift.
My personal favorite one was the passport cover with the map.
I simply love maps, but I also loved the fact that you can personalize the design. And the map is painted in the color of a Paua shell, another typical Kiwiana thing. (Check out #22 for more information about the Paua shell).
#14 New Zealand travel guides
Lonely Planet: New Zealand
If you are looking for New Zealand gifts for someone who is planning to travel around New Zealand on a budget, this is the perfect gift.
Fodor’s Travel Essential New Zealand
Fodor’s travel guides are great for any type of traveler. So this travel guide is a great gift for anyone who is traveling to New Zealand soon.
Best Day Hikes in New Zealand
Are you looking for New Zealand gifts for someone who loves hiking? This travel guide is the perfect gift for them.
#15 Kiwi bird gifts
Of course, I had to include something related to the Kiwi bird on a list of the best Kiwiana gifts.
So if you are looking for a perfect gift for new parents this ‘My Little Kiwi Gift Box’ is perfect! This unique and individually crafted set features a Kiwi-themed bodysuit, a cute bandana bib, and an adorable handmade Kiwi toy. It’s the ultimate way to welcome their little one into the world of native birds and Kiwi charm.
And for Kiwi-themed gifts for people who don’t have a baby, check out Etsy for more ideas.
#16 Kiwiana gifts for her: spiral pendant
This spiral pendant is one of the best Kiwiana gifts for her.
First of all, it’s a beautiful piece of jewelry. But what makes this such a great gift from New Zealand is the fact that it’s designed and handmade by the Maori.
The spiral shape stands for new beginnings, new life, and hope.
#17 New Zealand -themed jigsaw puzzle
This is the best gift idea for jigsaw puzzle lovers that you will find in this New Zealand gift guide.
It contains two 1000-piece puzzles of beautiful landscapes in New Zealand. It’s a great gift for a New Zealand lover who can’t be in New Zealand at the moment. They can find some comfort by laying out these puzzles.
#18 Books about New Zealand
The penguin history of New Zealand
This is one of the best New Zealand gifts for people who love to know more about the history of the country.
For more history-themed gifts, check out these 25 gifts for history buffs.
Pounamu Pounamu by Witi Ihimaera
This is a beautiful book for anyone who would love to know more about what it’s like to be a New Zealander from the Maori perspective.
Culture Smart: the essential guide to customs & culture in New Zealand
The culture smart books are great guides for people who would love to learn more about local customs and cultures.
New Zealand gifts for small budgets
#19 Slang playing cards
These Kiwi slang playing cards are the ultimate gift for New Zealand lovers! They are more than just your typical deck of cards, they’re a hilarious celebration of Kiwi culture. With terms like “En Zed,” “Aotearoa,” and “Godzone,” they’ll be speaking like a true Kiwi in no time.
It’s a fun gift to immerse them in the language and humor of New Zealand. So, whether you’re a Kiwi yourself or just know an admirer of this adventurous nation, these cards will make the perfect gift.
#20 New Zealand wine
Are you looking for gifts from New Zealand for someone who loves wine? Then a wine from New Zealand is obviously the perfect gift.
I picked a classic Sauvignon Blanc, but you can find all sorts of wine from New Zealand on Drizly.
#21 New Zealand travel journal
Are you looking for small New Zealand gifts for someone who is going to travel to New Zealand?
Then a travel journal that’s specific to New Zealand is the perfect gift!
Travel journals are one of the trafvel essentials, which makes them super practical gifts.
#22 Kiwiana gifts for her: paua jewelry
If you are looking for typical Kiwiana gifts for her, jewelry made from the Paua shell is the perfect gift.
Paua shell jewelry is made from the shells of edible sea snails, called paua by the Maori. The sea snails are also known as abalone or ormer shells.
The paua shells are often used by the Maori in both arts and crafts, such as jewelry.
I loved the earrings with the shell in the middle. But check out Ersy for more Paua shell jewelry options, such as necklaces, bracelets, rings, or other earrings.
#23 Kiwiana-themed tote bags
The New Zealand-themed tote bags on Zazzle are one of the best sustainable and practical gifts in this New Zealand gift guide.
You can find nearly 600 different options on Zazzle, so I’m sure you can find something for any recipient.
#24 New Zealand-themed coloring book
This coloring book is one of my favorite items from this New Zealand gift guide.
It’s the perfect small gift for someone who could use some relaxation time. The book includes awesome New Zealand-themed patterns, such as the one on the cover with the kiwi bird.
#25 More New Zealand-themed gifts: luggage tag
Are you looking for more practical New Zealand gift ideas for travelers?
Then one of the 258 different luggage tags on Zazzle is what you need. If you need help picking a design, I would go for the one with the fern and flag of New Zealand.
It’s a cute luggage tag that combines two of the typical New Zealand symbols.
Save these New Zealand gifts
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Final notes on Kiwiana gifts
From the captivating landscapes to the rich cultural heritage, Aotearoa offers a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and presents that will bring joy to your loved ones. Whether it’s a piece of Maori art, a quirky Kiwi-themed item, or a taste of the country’s delectable treats, these gifts from New Zealand capture the essence of the country and create lasting memories.
- Large budget: Whittaker’s chocolate box (#2)
- Mid budget: Manuka honey (#8)
- Small budget: Kiwi slang playing cards (#19)
