Soft Landing NZ

By Brett Corlett | Soft Landing Podcast

Introduction

Moving to a new country is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out where to buy the things you need for everyday life. I remember when I first arrived in New Zealand, I wasn’t sure which shops were best for groceries, furniture, or even simple things like bedding. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the main shopping options across New Zealand so you know exactly where to go when you’re setting up your new life here.

Groceries and Everyday Essentials

When it comes to groceries, you’ll find that supermarkets here are the go-to option. The main chains are:
– Countdown(Renamed to Woolworths): Similar to Spar, with a wide range of fresh produce and everyday items. (South African Reference)
– New World: Similar to Woolworths in SA, a bit more premium, often located in community centres with excellent fresh produce. (South African Reference)
– Pak’nSave: Similar to Checkers, known for bulk savings and lower prices, a great choice if you’re looking to save money. (South African Reference)

For everyday essentials like toiletries, household products, and cleaning supplies, you can also check out The Warehouse, which is a Kiwi favourite for budget shopping.

Furniture and Homeware

If you’re starting fresh, you’ll likely need to furnish your home. Some of the best places to look include:
– Briscoes: Regular sales on homeware, bedding, and kitchen supplies.
– Farmers: A mid-range department store offering furniture, clothing, and appliances.
– Kmart & The Warehouse: Affordable options for everything from kitchen items to furniture.
– Freedom & Harvey Norman: Higher-end stores with stylish furniture and appliances.

If you’re budget-conscious, Trade Me (New Zealand’s version of eBay) is the best place to buy second-hand furniture and appliances from locals.

Electronics and Appliances

For electronics, laptops, and home appliances, these are the top retailers:
– Noel Leeming
– JB Hi-Fi
– Harvey Norman

All of these stores have regular sales and finance options. If you need a mobile plan, Spark, Vodafone, and 2degrees are the major providers.

Clothing & Fashion

For clothing, New Zealand has options for every budget:
– Farmers for family clothing needs.
– Kathmandu, Macpac, and Torpedo7 for outdoor gear – essential in NZ!
– Trade Me and Facebook Marketplace are also great for second-hand deals.

Specialty & Cultural Stores

One of the amazing things about New Zealand is the cultural diversity. You’ll find specialty stores and supermarkets that cater to different ethnic communities. From Asian supermarkets like Tai Ping to South African, Indian, and Filipino stores, you’ll be able to find the tastes of home no matter where you’re from.

Final Thoughts

Starting life in New Zealand can feel daunting, but knowing where to shop makes the transition easier. My advice is to explore different stores, compare prices, and don’t be shy about asking locals for tips. Over time, you’ll find your go-to spots and feel more at home here. If you’re just arriving, remember: you don’t need to buy everything at once – take your time, settle in, and enjoy the journey of making New Zealand your new home.

🎧 Episode 20

➡️ https://youtu.be/tO5SnpLgyOI

📢 Stay Connected

I’d love your help.
The Inner Circle App is coming soon — a free space for migrants to connect, learn, and belong in New Zealand. We’d love your input! Help us shape it so it truly supports your needs.

https://forms.gle/FuTEd7cMwv7jzSK56

Follow my Soft Landing podcast and subscribe to my YouTube channel @softlandingnz for real stories, walkthroughs, and practical tips for newcomers to New Zealand. 
📍 All links & platforms: https://linktr.ee/softlandingnz