Undoubtedly, I have had a lifelong passion for shopping and beautiful things. And I hope that you find inspiration in my latest series of posts, “The Shop Local Edit – My Favourite Shops in Queenstown”

Firstly, I just wanted to start by saying that whenever I travel, one of my absolute favourite sightseeing options is checking out the local shopping. Not purely from an over-consumerism perspective, I love retail spaces from an aesthetic, interior decor, branding and the unique wares they have chosen to stock.

In recent years, I have been fortunate to travel with my children’s sport internationally and to almost every town in New Zealand. On such occasions, I always make the most of any downtime to check out the local shopping destinations and consider myself a bit of an expert on great finds and where to shop.

I have considered creating a series of posts on such finds for quite a while. However, with Covid-19 wreaking havoc on local economies, shopping with local businesses has become more important than ever. And as a result, the creation of my series on “Shop Local Edit – My Favourite Shops in xx.“ 

The Shop Local Movement

There is no doubt that we have all faced some incredibly trying times. However, you are one of the lucky ones if you have come through Covid-19 unscathed, with a job, your income still intact and your health! 

In New Zealand, shopping restrictions have recently been lifted to include non-essential items, and you may be looking for some retail therapy. With the global pandemic wreaking havoc on local economies, shopping with local businesses has become more important than ever.

For me, that is within New Zealand, and when we shop at local shops or New Zealand online stores, we help keep our communities strong, encourage the continued growth and survival of small boutique shops, reduce environmental impacts and keep jobs in New Zealand. And most importantly, we help our local businesses to get back on their feet.

Many local shops & boutiques have had to be innovative and quickly adapt to the new norm in these unprecedented times. And additionally, have hastily provided an online platform (if they didn’t have one previously). So now you can shop online from anywhere. 

My Favourite Shops in Queenstown, New Zealand

I have been fortunate to call Queenstown my second home for the past 20-plus years. When my mother remarried and moved to live there in 1997, and a few years ago, after the Christchurch Earthquakes, we also purchased a holiday home to spend more time with her and have a break from the devastation of my hometown of Christchurch.

Every time we head down to Queenstown, one of my favourite things to do is to check out my favourite local shops and what they currently have in store.

As the tourist mecca of New Zealand, there is no doubt that COVID-19 and New Zealand’s currently closed borders have hit the area exceptionally hard. Therefore, I considered this my perfect second shopping destination for my Shop Local Edits! What better place to “Support Local” than a town currently desperately needing our support?

About – Queenstown, New Zealand

When discussing Queenstown as a destination, it’s hard to know where to start. In short, Queenstown is well known as the “Adventure Capital of the World”, with an incredible mountainous and picturesque backdrop for all things to do there.

Queenstown is the home to many adrenaline-packed activities, including jetboating, bungy jumping, white water rafting and skydiving. Additionally, many recreational activities include hiking, biking trails, guided tours, boat cruises, and scenic flights.

For the less adventurous, Queenstown has numerous wineries, restaurants, and cafes to tour. Additionally, there are spa and wellness options. And last but not least, there are five of the most stunning golf courses you can find.

Each season has a particular vibe in Queenstown, and the great thing is that most activities can be accessed all year round. However, Queenstown transforms into a world-class winter resort with four ski areas in the winter. And a bar and restaurant scene befitting any winter resort town.

For the locals of New Zealand, there has never been a better time to plan a trip to Queenstown. And for those from abroad, Queenstown is a fantastic trip to plan for when all this is over!

The above is just my quick summary of Queenstown; however, you can check it out here for all things on offer in Queenstown.

The Shop Local Edit – Favourite Shops In Queenstown.

At long last, here it is, the second of my “Shop Local Edit” posts – My Favourite Shops in Queenstown. I hope that you enjoy and find some inspiration from my favourite shops. (For each, I have also selected a few of my current favourite items to add to my shopping cart). 

So be sure to check out their websites and follow them on social media to keep updated with their new arrivals. And last but not least, remember to Shop Like Your Local Shops Depend On It…Because They Do!

Paula x

The Edit

My Favourite Shops in Queenstown, NZ | The Shop Local Edit

1. Smith and Western

Smith & Western – About

Our Clothing brand, Smith & Western, has developed a long-term and loyal following since its establishment in Queenstown in 2001.

We believe in the integrity of a high-quality and low-impact product, and the range continues to be 100% New Zealand-made.

The readily wearable line is a continuous evolution of essential pieces. 

The signature use of compelling prints, fabrics, and colour combined with attention to drape and simplicity has created an enduring label with increasing demand amongst new and repeat customers.

The classics remain the base of the range, with essential shirts and tops, versatile dresses, fine knits and timeless pant styles. The styling is simple, understated and relaxed while retaining its edge, credibility, and point of difference.

To find out more about Smith and Western, click here.

What I love about Smith & Western;

Smith & Western is most likely my favourite shop in Queenstown. I love the unique designs and fabric. Over the years, I have purchased many timeless pieces from Smith & Western( my most recent being the Getty Dress in Black Silk).

The store always looks beautiful, and the space is relaxed and inviting with incredible homewares and textiles.

A real New Zealand boutique experience. There is no doubt that Francesca and her team always make every trip in-store both easy and lots of fun.

Smith & Western is definitely worthy of my personal number one spot on my “The Shop Local Edit – My Favourite Shops in Queenstown.”

Shop My Current Favourites

(click on the image below)

Follow on Instagram @smithandwestern

Follow on Facebook @smithandwesternNZ

2. Decode

About – Decode

“Maree Cross founded Decode in early 2005, and what an exciting journey it has been! Our Store culture has been unravelling before us, and we have become crystal clear about who we are and our purpose.”

We are grassroots women that love our work, our Designers and our Clients. We sell an eclectic fusion of homewares, soft furnishings, bedding, lighting, jewellery and objects of beauty.

Our clothing and footwear ranges have been sourced from New Zealand and International Designers. They have been carefully curated to provide timeless, feminine options that give us comfort and confidence, reflect our lifestyles and celebrate the multidimensional extraordinary women we are in today’s world!“

To find out more about Decode, click here.

What I love about Decode;

A trip to Queenstown isn’t quite complete without a visit to Decode. It’s a gorgeous shop, an inviting space and has lovely, knowledgeable staff. It has some incredible New Zealand and International labels, a few of my personal favourites being;

New Zealand; Trelise Cooper / Cooper / Charmaine Reveley / Mild Red / Taylor

International; Mes Demoiselle / Ottad’Ame / Morrison / Second Female. 

Shop My Current Favourites

(click on the image below)

Follow on Instagram @decodequeenstown

Follow on Facebook decode.queenstown

3. Slow

SLOW – About

Fashion, design, beauty, & interior concept store + online boutique. 

“SLOW is an online store and experiential showroom in the heart of Queenstown.
We have handpicked products that hold the qualities of SLOW core ethos, bringing you an array of authentic brands that can make a difference in your life (and the life of others!).
As well as fashion, beauty and design, SLOW features a coffee studio, an exclusive collaboration with FRAMA Copenhagen and a photo gallery for local artists.”

To find out more about SLOW, click here.

What I love about Slow;

Slow is a truly gorgeous concept store. With a selection of considered products handpicked to enrich anyone’s home and lifestyle. Notwithstanding, all brands they work with have strong business ethics towards sustainability.

Additionally, they have a gorgeous plant-based eatery and coffee studio as part of the concept store. The coffee studio is stunning, with a stunning fit-out from FRAMA Copenhagen. And you can check out all about the Slow Eatery here @sloweatery.

SLOW is a must-visit shop for tourists in Queenstown and the perfect hub for local people! The staff are super lovely, and the ambience is fantastic.

Shop My Current Favourites

(click on the image below)

Follow on Instagram @slow_queenstown and @sloweatery

Follow on Facebook slowqueenstown and sloweatery

4. Angel Devine

Angel Devine – About 

“A fashion institution in Queenstown since 1997, Angel Divine is a high-end designer boutique where selected New Zealand and International fashion labels come together in an inspiring and ever-changing environment.” 

To find out more about Angel Devine, click here.

What I love about Angel Devine;

Angel Devine is a gorgeous boutique and space nestled in a lane in the heart of Queenstown. They have a selection of some stunning high-end labels, a few of my personal favourites being;

Marle / Kate Sylvester / Maggie Marilyn / Juliette Hogan / Deadly Ponies Handbags.

Shop My Current Favourites

(click on the image below)

Follow on Instagram @_angeldevine

Follow on Facebook @AngelDevineNZ

5. Seletti Concept Store

Seletti Concept Stores – About

“The Coolest Edit in Luxury Womenswear, Beauty and Object D’ Art. 

Seletti Concept Store merges fashion and art, inciting the new, the unconventional, the eclectic, and the inspired. The brand presents global luxury and emerging talent with a designer roster across women’s, design, and beauty categories.”

To find out more about Seletti Concept Stores, click here. 

What I love about Seletti Concept Stores;

Seletti Concept Store is always worth a visit when in Queenstown. Most famous in my mind for their amazing selection of my most coveted Golden Goose Brand Sneakers. They have a selection of some stunning labels, a few of my personal favourites being;

Golden Goose Deluxe Brand / Bassike / Ganni / Cecilie Copenhagen

Shop My Current Favourites

(click on the image below)

Follow on Instagram @seletticonceptstore

Follow on Facebook seletticonceptstore

6. Social Clothing & Co

About – Social Clothing & Co

“Social Clothing & Co brings to Queenstown a curated selection of leading and new emerging fashion brands from Australia, Europe, America, Indonesia and our homeland, New Zealand.
We pride ourselves in continuously researching for the best established and also new emerging brands around the globe and bring to our customers. 
Enjoy an Allpress coffee from our in-store Barista as you browse, or order from our takeaway coffee window.”

To find out more about Social Clothing & Co, click here. 

What I love about Social Clothing & Co;

The store is a fantastic addition to the relatively new and evolving shopping precinct Queenstown Central. This independent boutique has a gorgeous and unique selection of brands and items, well worth taking the time to browse their racks. Some of my favourites are;

Zoe Kratzmann / Free People / Ba&sh / Elms & King / French Freddie / Noa Noa.

The coffee nook is also welcome while shopping in-store or in the area.

Shop My Current Favourites

(click on the image below)

Follow on Instagram @socialclothingandco_

Follow on Facebook socialclothingandco

7. The Colab Store

About – The Colab Store

“Bringing cultured and current labels to the people! Our love and appreciation for fashion, creativity, skill and retail makes us very passionate about what we do.”

What I love about The Colab Store;

I recently came across the following: “The Colab Store is coming soon to Queenstown Central.” And further investigation shows that The Colab Store is an established store in Te Awamutu, New Zealand, and they plan to open in the next few weeks in Queenstown!

They have some fantastic brands and would be an exciting addition to the Queenstown fashion scene. Watch this space!

Kowtow / Ksubi / Lonely / C & M / Status Anxiety / Elk / Stolen Girlfriends / The Horse / Harry & Co / Blać Cosmetics / Kester Black / Indie & Mae / Nude Lucy / New Balance / ReCreate / Rains / Meadowlark / Neuw Denim / Chimi Eyewear / Love Stories / Palm Beach

Follow on Instagram @thecolabstore.co.nz

Follow on Facebook thecolabstoreta

8. Moochi

About – Moochi

“moochi is a boutique New Zealand fashion label that strives to deliver an experience that appeals to more than just the eye. moochi is your everyday luxury, from your off-duty essentials to coveted designer pieces. with effortless style, moochi makes women feel confident and look chic. the moochi philosophy is simple, we aim to arm women with a cohesive, adaptable wardrobe of pieces that work effortlessly together for work or play. moochi pieces are created in exclusive numbers and are of premium quality, ensuring longevity not only in fabrication but also in style.“

To find out more about Moochi, click here. 

What I love about Moochi

The Moochi label is unique, wearable, sophisticated and distinctively on-trend. And there is no doubt that Moochi is a premium New Zealand fashion brand with a loyal and cult-like local following.

When focusing on “Shop Local”, it’s hard not to be impressed by such a successful New Zealand fashion label. All designs are created in-house at the Moochi head office, with products predominantly made in New Zealand, with pattern making, fabric cutting, sewing, and pressing occurring locally.

All Moochi stores are stunning places to shop, with gorgeous fit-outs and stunning displays. And despite each moochi store having its own name to reflect the location, the branding is so strong that you instinctively know you are in Moochi.

If I were to summarise Moochi, I would say that if you were to restart your entire wardrobe, create a capsule wardrobe or pack a suitcase to go on holiday, you could almost do so entirely at Moochi. It has everything from everyday luxury classics to sophisticated, timeless pieces you will wear again.

You can read all about Moochi in my post, The Shop Local Edit – My Current Moochi Obsessions.

Shop My Current Favourites

(click on the image below)

Queenstown’s moochi royal (a take on the name Queenstown) was the brand’s 12th store and opened in November 2018. To check out store locations, click here.

Or shop online at their International Online Store;

Follow on Instagram @moochi_

Follow on Facebook @moochixx

Shop Local – My Favourite Queenstown Cafes

Although Europe essentially created the coffee/cafe culture. Undoubtedly, New Zealand has a world-class coffee and cafe scene. Independent cafés and trendy coffee houses are now the go-to spots, and the Queenstown cafe scene is no exception. The following are my few favourite cafes in Queenstown for coffee and refuelling during your shopping excursion.

I have featured the following two cafes in addition to Slow Eatery. Although I probably should mention The Boatshed, which is another Queenstown lakeside favourite.

I plan to do another post on Arrowtown, featuring my local hangouts and favourites of Provisions of Arrowtown and The Hole in One at Millbrook Resort.

1. Franks Eatery

About – Franks Eatery

“The original FRANK’S | Family-owned cafe in Frankton QT | Free-range Kiwi produce, local ingredients, eco packaging.” 

To find out more about Franks Eatery, click here.

What I love about Franks Eatery;

While not in the heart of Queenstown, it’s definitely worth the trip, and Frank’s will be your new go-to spot.

An ethical, family-run café in Frankton Queenstown. Frank’s Eatery serves wholesome, tasty food using free-range, local produce.

The ultimate good café serves great food and coffee in a great space.

With fuss-free food and décor, great-tasting, simple, ethical food and great quality, fair trade, and organic coffee. With cosy-cushioned corners, bright spaces and outdoor seating.

Follow on Instagram @franks.eatery

Follow on Facebook Franks.eatery

2. VuDu Café & Larder

About – Vudu Cafe & Larder

“Nestled on the waterfront in the heart of Queenstown, Vudu Cafe + Larder is proud to offer modern cafe food using fresh seasonal and local produce.

We appreciate the attention to detail – we experiment, perfect, and then present dishes that are equally as beautiful as they are delicious. Our service is thoughtful and friendly, gorgeous lake views are abundant, and our interior is warm and layered with a pared-back vintage vibe.”

To find out more about Vudu Cafe & Larder, click here.

What I love about Vudu Cafe;

An award-winning cafe in the heart of Queenstown with stunning and picturesque views from the outside seating.

Vudu Cafe makes amazing cooked breakfasts, and the coffee & counter food is awesome, too.

The only drawback is that it’s insanely popular and can get really busy. But it is well worth the wait and a must-do in Queenstown.

A must-visit for my Shop Local Edit – My Favourite Shops In Queenstown.

Follow on Instagram @vudularder

Follow on Facebook vudu cafe & larder

P.s.

If you like this post on Shop Local – My Favourite Shops Queenstown, check out my other posts in the Shop Local Edit;

The Shop Local Edit – My Favourite Shops in Havelock North, NZ

The Shop Local Edit– My Favourite Shops in Timaru, NZ

The Shop Local Edit – My Current Moochi Obsessions

Also, several of these shops and boutiques stock New Zealand designer labels included in my recent post, “The Best Ethical & Sustainable​ New Zealand Fashion Designers To Know” Click here to read.