10 Places & Brands Worth Checking Out in New Zealand
If you’ve been following my newsletter, From Europe with Love, you know I’m all about uncovering hidden gems — usually in Europe. But after two months exploring Aotearoa, I’ve got to say: New Zealand knows how to do good coffee, great design, and ridiculously fresh oysters.
So, here’s a roundup of my favorite spots — whether you’re road-tripping through or just looking for some Kiwi inspiration. And no, the Canyon Swing didn’t make the list. I like my adrenaline in reasonable doses, thank you very much.
Let’s get to it!
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Wolf Coffee Roasters, Arrowtown
Best coffee I had in NZ. And that’s saying something — New Zealand takes its coffee seriously. (Side note: Supreme Coffee wins for best merch, but their beans? Not quite my cup of… well, coffee.)
If you’re in Arrowtown, don’t waste time at a chain café. Head straight to Wolf. These guys don’t just make coffee—they craft it. Smooth, complex, and worth savoring. And they have "soft brews on bar" (Kiwi terminology for light-roasted filter coffee) – a must-try.
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Kaffelogic, Dunedin
A small-but-mighty brand out of Dunedin making professional-grade coffee roasters for home use. If you’re the kind of person who debates the first crack with your barista, Kaffelogic is your new best friend. I got to see it in action and after chatting with Connor, the roaster at Chiasso in Devonport (another must-visit for coffee lovers in Auckland), it's definitely on my wish list for my coffee corner at home.
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Super Kiosk, Cambridge (near hamiilton)
Part design store, part stationery haven, Super Kiosk is the kind of place where you walk in for a notebook and walk out with a tote bag, a ceramic mug, and a sudden appreciation for minimalist Japanese scissors. High-design meets everyday practicality, with a distinctly Kiwi touch. If you love beautifully designed, functional objects, this spot is a must-visit. (Their website is just as dangerously tempting.)
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Coromandel Oyster Company, Coromandel Peninsula
Oysters so fresh they might still have ocean secrets to tell. Swing by, grab a dozen, and experience the Coromandel in its purest (and briniest) form. Pair it with a crisp local white wine, and you’ve got yourself a perfect afternoon.
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Asuwere, Auckland
Menswear done right—timeless pieces, quality fabrics, and a subscription model that keeps your wardrobe effortlessly fresh. Perfect for those who want to dress well without overthinking it. Bonus: their gear actually lasts.
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Buggy Robot, Oamaru
A robot shop in the heart of New Zealand’s self-proclaimed steampunk capital? Naturally. Buggy Robot in Oamaru is part futuristic curiosity shop, part mechanical art gallery. Whether you’re a sci-fi enthusiast, gadget lover, or just someone who appreciates creativity with a touch of eccentricity, this place is worth a visit.
The mastermind behind it all is Martin Horspool, a lifelong collector and creative mind behind Buggy Robot. His creations — crafted from salvaged parts and repurposed materials — are like something out of a retro-futuristic dream. But don’t let the mechanical exteriors fool you; Martin himself is as warm and welcoming as they come, always happy to chat about his work and the stories behind each piece. If you’re lucky, you might even walk away with your own little robotic companion.
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ZoopSkin
Beach days in NZ require two things: good waves and great sunscreen. ZoopSkin nails the latter, with reef-safe formulas and that signature scent that screams summer. Slather up — New Zealand’s sun doesn’t mess around.
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Noble & Sunday Tea
A Wellington-based tea brand elevating the humble cuppa. Whether you’re into classic green senchas or experimental blends, their selection is worth sipping. Perfect for those post-hike wind-down moments.
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Wellington Chocolate Factory
Bean-to-bar chocolate, ethically sourced and ridiculously good. Their flavors range from classic dark to wild experimental batches (think: craft beer collabs and local ingredients). Pro tip: their salted caramel chocolate is borderline addictive.
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Parrotdog Alc-Free (& the Hazy IPA)
Definitely no secret gem as you can get it at most supermarkets. Nevertheless, a hazy, juicy, and dangerously drinkable IPA from one of Wellington’s best craft breweries. If you’re into tropical, citrusy brews, this one’s a must-try. More tropical than a Samoan ukulele band. Since I’ve been mostly on the alcohol-free train lately, their Watchdog non-alc IPA was hands down the best one I tried.
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That’s the list! Whether you’re into coffee, fashion, or just good food and drink, New Zealand delivers. If you’ve got any personal favorites, hit me up — I’m always down to discover more hidden gems.