Uniquely Kiwi Treasures: What I Only Buy in New Zealand

As a kiwi who wanders the globe, I often find myself in situations where the best local goods can only be found in New Zealand. This article delves into the reasons why I exclusively purchase certain treasures from my home country, such as chocolate, Mince and Cheese pies, and select wines, due to their exceptional quality and often superior pricing.

Exquisite Chocolate - A Global Delight

Chocolate is a sweet favorite for many, and New Zealand stands out with exceptional brands like Whittakers. These chocolate companies thrive almost everywhere in the country, making it easy to find high-quality treats. However, the journey gets a bit trickier when traveling overseas. Brands such as Venchi Marou Shoc have their presence in select international markets, but finding them consistently may require luck or local friends. This disparity in availability inspires me to carry on supporting Kiwi chocolatiers upon returning home.

Despite cheaper prices abroad for most consumer goods, I seldom bring them back. This decision is made not due to firm loyalty to New Zealand retailers, but out of a genuine preference for reduced hassle. The effort of lugging around a suitcase full of goods only seems to weigh me down excessively. Instead, I opt to purchase items I wish to use myself or give to friends online from overseas. Even with the recent introduction of GST charges on overseas purchases, the savings from international sellers still outweigh the convenience of local shops, often providing a significantly lower markup.

Mince and Cheese Pies: A Kiwi Staple

Mince and Cheese pies and Hawkes Bay Cabernet Merlot are prime examples of items that should remain in New Zealand. These delicacies boast an iconic status, especially during the colder months. Mince and cheese pies are a beloved comfort food, while Hawkes Bay Cabernet Merlot wines are world-renowned for their quality.

When venturing abroad, it’s hard to replicate the same quality and variety. For instance, what could possibly match the perfection of a good mince and cheese pie? Or a rich, velvety Cabernet Merlot from New Zealand’s Hawkes Bay region? The local flavors and textures developed over generations in New Zealand are irreplaceable in other parts of the world. This is not just because of the price; it’s about the local charm and heritage that these products carry.

Food that Transcends Borders

Traveling is about experiencing new cuisines, cultures, and places, not just shopping. However, nothing can beat the quality of New Zealand’s fresh produce and other foods. Fruits, vegetables, and even our wines and ice creams are harder to match overseas. When it comes to quality, local products often outshine their international counterparts, such as in the case of delicious tomatoes, which are simply tastier than their Australian or Dutch equivalents. Even when comparing with most European countries, excluding the UK, New Zealand struggles to compete in terms of bread quality, yet the prices generally remain lower.

Our focus on exporting agricultural products and relying on imports for manufactured goods since the 1980s has limited the availability of local goods in stores outside New Zealand. Yet, we still manage to hold a special place in the hearts of many travelers. Products like Vogels Bread, Marmite, and our renowned ice cream top the list of things I miss most when abroad. Each of these has a story behind it, a link to the cultural richness and history of New Zealand.

In concluding, whether it’s chocolate, mince and cheese pies, or wines, these Kiwi treasures set a standard that is hard to beat. They are more than just items for sale; they are symbols of our identity and a testament to the efforts of local producers. If you ever find yourself in New Zealand, make sure to try these local delights. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!