Yes, gift cards are sold extensively throughout New Zealand. Gift cards have become very popular in New Zealand over the past decade or so, with major retailers, restaurants, and various service providers now offering their own branded gift cards for easy gifting. Gift cards provide a convenient way to give monetary gifts that allow the recipient to choose what they want, and they have caught on as a preferred gift option for many occasions.
Availability of Gift Cards in New Zealand
Some of the major retailers that sell gift cards in New Zealand include:
Supermarkets
Retailer | Details |
---|---|
Countdown | Countdown supermarkets sell Countdown gift cards that can be used at any Countdown store nationwide. |
New World | New World sells New World gift cards to use at New World supermarkets across the country. |
Pak’nSave | Pak’nSave provides Pak’nSave gift cards for use at Pak’nSave stores. |
Department Stores
Retailer | Details |
---|---|
The Warehouse | The Warehouse offers gift cards that can be used at any The Warehouse store, Warehouse Stationery, Noel Leeming, or Torpedo7 store nationwide. |
Farmers | Farmers department stores sell Farmers gift cards to use at their stores around New Zealand. |
Kmart | Kmart sells gift cards for use at Kmart stores in NZ. |
Specialty Retailers
Retailer | Details |
---|---|
Whitcoulls | Whitcoulls sells gift cards that can be used at any Whitcoulls store nationwide or online. |
Briscoes | Briscoes homeware stores offer Briscoes gift cards. |
Kathmandu | Outdoor retailer Kathmandu provides gift cards for its stores. |
Glassons | Fashion retailer Glassons sells Glassons gift cards. |
In addition to major retailers, many smaller specialty shops, restaurants, cafes, movie theaters, and various service providers like spas and attractions also offer gift cards in New Zealand. So there are plenty of options across the country.
Types of Gift Cards Sold in New Zealand
There are a few main types of gift cards available:
Store-Specific Gift Cards
These are branded gift cards that can only be used at a particular retailer or store, like a Countdown or Farmers gift card. This allows the recipient to make purchases at that specific store. Store-specific cards are the most common type sold.
Shopping Mall Gift Cards
Some shopping malls sell gift cards that can be spent at any of the stores or restaurants in that mall. These provide more flexibility than a store-specific card.
Visa/Mastercard Prepaid Gift Cards
These are essentially prepaid Visa or Mastercard cards that can be used for purchases anywhere that particular card is accepted, both online and in stores. They can be used like a debit card to spend the preloaded amount.
Multi-Store Gift Cards
A few gift cards let recipients spend at multiple retailers within a network. For example, The Warehouse gift cards can be used across The Warehouse, Noel Leeming, Warehouse Stationery, and Torpedo7 stores.
Purchasing Gift Cards in New Zealand
There are several ways shoppers can buy gift cards in New Zealand:
In-Store
Gift cards are sold at the physical retail locations of most major stores and chains that offer them. Simply visit the store directly and purchase a gift card at the checkout counter or customer service desk. Many grocery stores and malls have dedicated gift card displays.
Online
Most major retailers that sell gift cards allow customers to purchase e-gift cards online that can either be emailed to recipients or printed at home. This provides convenience and quick delivery.
Other Online Marketplaces
There are some dedicated online gift card marketplaces that allow you to buy both physical and virtual gift cards from a wide array of brands all in one place. Popular marketplaces include GiftCardMarket and GiftCardShop.
Over the Phone
Some stores allow gift cards to be purchased over the phone, which they can then mail out. This provides another option for convenience.
Gift Card Terms & Conditions
When purchasing and using gift cards in New Zealand, there are some common terms and conditions to keep in mind:
– Expiration dates: Gift cards often expire 6-24 months after purchase if unused. The expiry should be checked.
– Redemption: Most gift cards here are redeemable online or in-store, but some may be store-specific.
– Fees: Dormancy fees may apply if the card is unused for a certain period, usually around 12 months. Purchase or activation fees also sometimes apply.
– Refunds: Most gift cards don’t allow refunds or exchanging back to cash once purchased. The card policy should be checked.
– Lost or stolen: If gift cards are lost or stolen, retailers generally cannot offer replacement or refund. The balance may be lost.
– Terms of use: Other standard terms around card use, ownership, and liabilities also usually apply to gift cards.
The Popularity of Gift Cards in New Zealand
Gift cards have become a major trend in New Zealand over the last 10-15 years. Some key reasons for their popularity here include:
– Convenience – For both the giver and recipient, gift cards are often seen as convenient and easier than choosing an actual gift item.
– Suitability – Gift cards allow the recipient to choose their own gift, ensuring it’s something they want.
– Flexibility – Open-loop cards from Visa/Mastercard provide flexibility to redeem almost anywhere. Closed-loop cards also give recipients options within a store.
– Enjoyment – Being able to choose a desired item for themselves is part of the appeal and enjoyment for many gift card recipients.
– Universal appeal – Gift cards are suitable for all ages and demographics, making them universally appealing. Both young and old appreciate receiving gift cards.
Their convenience and universal appeal has seen gift card sales steadily grow over the years. They now make a billion dollar industry and popular gifting choice for many Kiwis.
Conclusion
Gift cards are widely available across retailers, restaurants, and various services throughout New Zealand. All major stores offer gift cards in-store and online, with open and closed-loop options. They can be purchased in various ways – in-store, online, and through gift card marketplaces. With their immense popularity as a convenient and enjoyable gifting mechanism, gift cards look set to remain a gifting staple and billion dollar market across New Zealand for years to come.