Funky Gift Ideas

Exploring Funky Gift Ideas in New Zealand: Unconventional Presents for Every Occasion

When it comes to finding the perfect gift, sometimes you need something a little out of the ordinary. Funky gifts are perfect for those who appreciate creativity, humor, and a unique twist on traditional presents. Whether you're looking for something quirky for a birthday, a fun surprise for a holiday, or just want to give someone something they won’t expect, New Zealand offers plenty of options for funky, unconventional gifts.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to find funky gifts in New Zealand, from personalized items to out-of-the-box presents, and we’ll even include GiftTree for some inspiration. Let’s dive into the world of quirky, fun gifts!

1. Where to Find Funky Gifts in New Zealand

Whether you’re shopping online or at a local boutique, New Zealand has an abundance of stores offering funky gifts that stand out from the crowd. Here are some great places to find creative and unusual presents:

1.1. The Warehouse

Known for its broad range of affordable products, The Warehouse is an excellent place to find fun and funky gifts for all ages. From quirky home decor and novelty toys to fashion accessories, they offer plenty of gift options for those looking to add a touch of humor or eccentricity to their present-giving.

1.2. Urban Outfitters NZ

If you’re after vintage-inspired funky gifts or retro-inspired accessories, Urban Outfitters is a go-to destination. Known for its quirky, pop-culture-based products, they offer a variety of unique items, from funky stationery to bold home decor.

1.3. Paper Plane

For those looking for fun, creative gifts, Paper Plane offers a collection of quirky gadgets, art prints, and unique home accessories. Their selection includes everything from retro furniture to funny wall art and mood lighting, making it an ideal place to find something that adds personality to any home or office.

1.4. Redcurrent

Offering stylish and quirky home decor, Redcurrent is the place to go if you're looking for funky yet practical gifts. From colorful cushions and bold ceramics to out-of-the-box kitchen gadgets, Redcurrent brings flair and functionality together in every piece.

2. Funky Personalized Gifts

Personalized gifts are always special, but when you add a quirky twist, they become even more memorable. Whether it's a custom mug with a funny quote or personalized artwork featuring an inside joke, personalized funky gifts are guaranteed to stand out.

2.1. Funny T-shirts and Apparel

There’s nothing like a custom T-shirt that makes people laugh. Many New Zealand stores offer funny graphic tees, quirky socks, and customized hats that can be printed with anything from inside jokes to pop-culture references.

2.2. Customized Home Decor

Give a funky spin to home decor with personalized prints, nameplates, or artwork featuring the recipient’s favorite quotes, hobbies, or beloved pets. Local artists and online stores allow you to create truly one-of-a-kind pieces that can add a personal touch to any room.

2.3. Personalized Stationery

For those who love quirky and functional gifts, personalized stationery is a great option. From custom notebooks and fun pens to personalized calendars, you can find stationery that fits the recipient’s personality, whether it’s bold and colorful or fun and whimsical.

3. Novelty Gifts for All Ages

Funky gifts aren’t just for adults! There are plenty of fun novelty gifts for kids that add a sense of humor to gift-giving. Whether it’s for a birthday or a special occasion, novelty gifts bring joy to children and adults alike.

3.1. Fun Puzzles and Games

Interactive games and puzzles with a funky twist are great for both kids and adults. From quirky board games to 3D puzzles, these gifts are perfect for those who enjoy a challenge with a bit of humor.

3.2. Cool Toys and Gadgets

For kids, funky toys that combine fun with function are always a hit. Look for remote-controlled gadgets, building kits, or interactive tech toys that add an element of surprise to playtime. For example, fidget spinners with a twist, or LED light-up toys make for excellent gifts that children can enjoy while adding an element of fun to their room.

3.3. Eco-Friendly Novelty Gifts

Sustainability is increasingly important, so funky eco-friendly toys or gifts are a unique choice. Recycled toys, plant-based products, and even solar-powered gadgets make great gifts that are both fun and environmentally responsible.

4. Home and Kitchen Gifts with a Funky Twist

If you're looking for something a little more practical but still funky, home and kitchen gifts are the way to go. These types of gifts combine style and function, making them both entertaining and useful.

4.1. Quirky Kitchen Gadgets

From funny coffee mugs to colorful kitchen timers, quirky kitchen gadgets are great for adding personality to your cooking space. Whether it’s a unique teapot, a customized cutting board, or novelty aprons, these gifts are both functional and stylish.

4.2. Fun Lighting and Lamps

Funky lighting can dramatically transform a room. Consider colorful LED lights, funky desk lamps, or novelty light fixtures that brighten up any space with a pop of personality.

4.3. Offbeat Home Decor

Unconventional home decor like bold statement pillows, vibrant wall art, and funky rugs add character to any room. These pieces often feature unique patterns, colors, or themes that reflect the personality of the recipient.

5. GiftTree: Funky Gifts for All Occasions

When it comes to luxury gift baskets and home gifts, GiftTree USA offers a curated selection of funky and thoughtful presents. Although GiftTree is widely known for its gourmet baskets and personalized gifts, they also offer a collection of fun and quirky items, such as:

• Customizable gourmet baskets filled with unique snacks, treats, and fun beverages.
  
• Personalized home gifts, including quirky wine glasses, funny mugs, and creative decor pieces.
  
• Novelty gift sets that combine fun with elegance, perfect for a birthday or special celebration.
  

GiftTree provides the perfect balance of luxury and funkiness, ensuring your gift stands out and brings a smile to the recipient's face.

6. Where to Shop for Funky Gifts in New Zealand

In addition to online retailers, there are several brick-and-mortar stores in New Zealand that specialize in funky gifts:

6.1. The Warehouse

The Warehouse offers a huge variety of quirky gifts and novelty items, from humorous stationery to kitchen gadgets and decor pieces.

6.2. Briscoes

Known for their wide selection of home goods, Briscoes also has a range of funky home decor and kitchen accessories that can serve as great gifts for housewarming or birthdays.

6.3. Redcurrent

For a more eclectic range of gifts, Redcurrent is the place to go. They offer fun and unique home decor pieces, quirky gift sets, and personalized items that can make the perfect gift for any occasion.

Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Funky Gift in New Zealand

Whether you're shopping for a birthday, holiday, or special event, funky gifts add a fun, personalized touch to your present-giving. From quirky home decor to novelty gadgets and personalized items, New Zealand offers plenty of options to find that unique gift. And for those looking to make the gift-giving experience even more special, companies like GiftTree USA provide beautifully curated gift baskets and personalized home gifts that combine style with a touch of funk.

By choosing a funky gift, you’re sure to make a memorable impression on your recipient, while celebrating their unique personality and interests. Whether you're opting for something funny or practical, these gifts are sure to be appreciated and loved!

Here are other companies and retailers in New Zealand (and some international options) where you can find funky, quirky, creative, and unique gifts — from novelty items and personal accessories to home décor and personalized presents.

1. Slow

A New Zealand design brand that focuses on locally made, creative gifts, stationery, and lifestyle items. They stock quirky prints, clever cards, and unique art pieces that make memorable presents.

2. Crafty, Market & Pop‑Up Boutiques

Across major cities (Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch), local makers markets and pop‑ups are goldmines for funky gifts:

• La Cigale Market
  
• Field Days Market
  
• The Sunday Market at Silo Park
  Here, you’ll find handmade jewelry, quirky ceramics, novelty accessories, and creative goods from independent artists.
  

3. Typo (Part of Cotton On Group)

Typo is a quirky gift and stationery retailer with stores in NZ. They stock:

• Funky notebooks
  
• Novelty mugs and décor
  
• Cute tech accessories
  
• Playful greeting cards
  

Their style is youthful, fun, and often humor‑driven.

4. Kikki.K

While better known for stylish stationery, Kikki.K also offers unique planners, cute desk accessories, and personalized items. Their products balance fun with functional, often suitable as slightly up‑market quirky gifts.

5. Made by Me / DIY Gift Makers

Many local Kiwi craft businesses sell online via platforms like:

• Etsy NZ sellers
  
• Facebook Marketplace artisan groups
  
• Instagram small creative shops
  You’ll find:
  
• Hand‑painted ceramics
  
• Custom candles with funny quotes
  
• Quirky jewellery
  
• Personalized gift tags or caricature prints
  

DIY makers are great for personalized funky gifts you can’t find anywhere else.

6. Briscoes

Though primarily a homeware and lifestyle store, Briscoes carries plenty of fun and whimsical home gift ideas, including:

• Novelty kitchen gadgets
  
• Playful décor items
  
• Bright cushions and themed throws
  These double as both practical and quirky gifts.
  

7. Hallmark (NZ & AUS)

Hallmark stores and kiosks often offer:

• Humorous greeting cards
  
• Fun small gift items
  
• Themed plush toys
  Their products are ideal for light, sentimental, or humorous gifting.
  

8. Wicked Uncle (International)

An online retailer with quirky, funky gifts for all ages. Their range includes:

• Offbeat gadgets
  
• Fun games
  
• Novelty accessories
  Perfect if you want unusual gifts not common in NZ shops.
  

9. Uncommon Goods (International)

This is a popular online destination for unique and creative gift ideas, including:

• Interactive home décor
  
• Sustainable and quirky products
  
• Personalized gifts
  While not NZ‑based, they ship globally and are great for unusual finds.
  

10. Mindful Market NZ

A marketplace platform highlighting small Kiwi businesses with unique gifts — often handmade, artistic, unconventional, and perfect for memorable gifts.

11. Redcurrent

Though more design and home décor focused, Redcurrent often stocks bold, playful home accessories and statement pieces that make great funky gifts — especially for interior lovers.

12. Farmers

This department store stocks a mix of mainstream and quirky home gift items, from fun kitchenware to playful décor, suitable for housewarmings, birthdays, and casual gifting.

13. GiftTree USA

GiftTree is not NZ‑based but is worth mentioning for funky and curated gift baskets, personalized home gifts, and fun novelty items that are also suitable for international orders or gifting inspiration.

14. Nostalgic Toy & Hobby Stores

Many collectible and toy stores in NZ offer:

• Retro toys
  
• Fun nostalgia‑inspired gifts
  
• Quirky games and puzzles
  These work great for unusual, fun presents.
  

15. Sticker and Vinyl Shops (Local & Online)

Small NZ shops specializing in:

• Custom stickers
  
• Vinyl decals
  
• Novelty wall art
  These can make inexpensive yet very funky personalized gifts.
  

Types of Funky Gifts You Can Find From These Retailers

Personal & Clothing

• Novelty socks
  
• Fun T‑shirts or hoodies with quirky quotes
  
• Humorous hats and caps
  
• Custom emoji or meme‑inspired accessories
  

Home & Décor

• Playful wall art
  
• Personalized neon signs
  
• Funky lamps and light fixtures
  
• Outrageous cushion covers
  

Kitchen & Dining

• Joke mugs and glassware
  
• Color‑changing plates or utensils
  
• Funky tea towels
  

Games & Gadgets

• Retro puzzles
  
• Quirky board games
  
• Mini tech gadgets
  
• Fun desktop toys
  

Personalized & Custom Gifts

• Custom caricature portraits
  
• Engraved items with funny messages
  
• Custom printed accessories
  

Tips for Choosing Funky Gifts in NZ

• Know their personality — go bold if they love humor, minimalist but thoughtful if they prefer stylish quirk.
  
• Match the occasion — birthdays allow more fun; corporate might stay slightly refined but still playful.
  
• Personalize for maximum impact — even a simple item becomes uniquely memorable.
  
• Think mix & match — curate your own funky bundle for extra delight.

1. Funky Gifts NZ

Overview: A dedicated online gift store based in Hamilton, NZ.
What They Sell: Novelty gifts, quirky homewares, funny mugs, themed gift boxes, greeting cards, kids’ gifts, gadgets, and more.
Why They’re Notable: One of NZ’s largest selections of fun and quirky gifts with fast NZ delivery and custom gift packaging.

2. Typo (Part of Cotton On Group)

Overview: Trendy retail store with a focus on fun stationery and lifestyle products.
What They Sell:

• Quirky notebooks and diaries
  
• Novelty mugs and tech accessories
  
• Fun wall art and home décor
  
• Colourful stationery
  Why They’re Popular: Bold, youthful style — great for teens, students, and creative gifting.
  

3. Slow NZ

Overview: NZ‑based design and lifestyle brand featuring locally made creative products.
What They Sell:

• Unique prints and posters
  
• Artistic stationery
  
• Funky lifestyle bits
  
• NZ designer gifts
  Why They’re Different: Focuses on locally designed, quirky, artistic items not found in mainstream stores.
  

4. Kikki.K

Overview: Stylish stationery and gift store with a playful edge.
What They Sell:

• Humorous notebooks and desk accessories
  
• Personalized planners
  
• Cute and quirky desk décor
  Why It Works: Good mix of practical and fun — ideal for quirky corporate gifts or stylish everyday presents.
  

5. Redcurrent

Overview: Boutique home and lifestyle retailer.
What They Sell:

• Bold homewares
  
• Playful décor pieces
  
• Artistic and design‑led gifts
  Why They Fit: Not strictly novelty, but a good range of funky décor and statement pieces that make fun gifts.
  

6. Farmers

Overview: Department store with broad gifting range.
What They Sell:

• Funky kitchen gadgets
  
• Trendy accessories
  
• Fun tech gadgets
  
• Playful home goods
  Why They’re Worth Watching: Often carry seasonally quirky items and themed gifts.
  

7. Briscoes

Overview: Homeware and lifestyle retailer.
What They Sell:

• Novelty home products
  
• Funky kitchen accessories
  
• Playful décor accents
  Why Choose Them: Good for practical yet whimsical gifting options.
  

8. Uncommon Goods (International, Ships to NZ)

Overview: Global unique gift retailer (not NZ‑based but ships internationally).
What They Sell:

• Handmade and designer gifts
  
• Offbeat gadgets
  
• Personalized quirky items
  Why They’re Good: Great source for unique, unusual gift ideas that local stores may not carry.
  

9. Etsy NZ Sellers

Overview: Marketplace of independent creators.
What They Sell:

• One‑off handmade and funky items
  
• Quirky mugs, custom artwork, handmade toys
  
• Personalized gifts
  Why It’s Special: Completely unique items — excellent for personalised and funky gift ideas.
  

10. Mindful Market / Local Maker Platforms

Overview: NZ small‑business marketplaces with creative gifts.
What They Sell:

• Handmade décor
  
• Funky accessories
  
• Bespoke lifestyle gifts
  Why It’s Worth Exploring: Supports NZ makers and often leads to one‑of‑a‑kind funky presents.
  

11. Hallmark NZ & AUS

Overview: Greeting card and gift store chain.
What They Sell:

• Humorous greeting cards
  
• Small quirky toys
  
• Cute giftware
  Why It’s Good: Classic source for funny, light‑hearted, affordable gifts.
  

12. The Warehouse

Overview: Mass retailer with a broad range of products.
What They Sell:

• Affordable novelty items
  
• Funky décor & seasonal gifts
  
• Trendy gadgets and accessories
  Why Choose Them: One‑stop shop for inexpensive, fun gifts.
  

13. Sticker and Vinyl Shops (Various NZ Independent Stores)

Overview: Small shops specializing in decals and art.
What They Sell:

• Custom stickers
  
• Wall decals
  
• Novelty art pieces
  Why They’re Cool: Awesome for personalized funky gifts and creative presents.
  

Examples of Funky Gift Types These Stores Stock

• Quirky mugs and glassware
• Humor‑based greeting cards
• Novelty tech gadgets
• Funky home décor & accent pieces
• Cool stationery & desk accessories
• Personalized prints & art
• Kid‑friendly quirky toys
• Funky kitchen accessories
• Creative lifestyle gifts

Gift Ideas Based on Occasion

How Funky Gift Stores Compare to GiftTree

• GiftTree (USA): Known for luxury, curated gift baskets and elegant presents.
  
• NZ Funky Gift Stores: Focus on playful, quirky, fun, and sometimes DIY‑style gifts — ideal for personality‑driven or humorous gifting.
  

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