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The Best Places to Shop in Rotorua

22 March 2023

Rotorua

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Rich Māori culture and history inspire much of the creativity and design behind the local art galleries, restaurants, markets, and boutique shops in Rotorua. In addition, the geothermal activity in the Bay of Plenty region is the source of many locally produced world-class beauty products. Here’s our visitor’s guide for the best places to hit the shops in Rotorua to pick up a bargain or find the perfect gift to take home.

Delve into arts and culture

Image credit: @ablinkforeternity

Māori Arts and Crafts Institute

The New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute has showcased generations of budding Māori artists – providing dedicated space to display and sell lovingly handcrafted art products.

Rotorua Antiques & Collectables

Uncover special treasures and antiques at this unique store in the centre of town. You’re sure to find something to remind you of your epic shopping trip in Rotorua.

Mountain Jade

At Mountain Jade, you’ll uncover the timeless beauty of New Zealand’s greenstone, pounamu. Blending heritage and futuristic themes, you can browse a range of creative jade carvings in classic and contemporary designs.

Amokura Glass

Amokura Glass is a glass-making studio and gallery producing high-quality decorative and functional glass art. Visit the hot shop to watch live glassblowing and discover amazing stories behind each artist’s creations.

Cottage Flair

Cottage Flair is an upmarket patchwork shop offering quilting, knitting, dressmaking, and craft supplies with an onsite coffee shop.

Sample local produce at Rotorua’s markets

Image credit: Rotorua Night Markets

Rotorua Night Market

Come shopping at the Rotorua Night Markets every Thursday from 4.30 pm to 8.30 pm. Browse boutique stores, feast on international cuisine, and listen to live local musicians.

Rotorua Farmers Market

The Rotorua Farmers Markets showcases the freshest locally sourced products in the region every Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm. Grab some free-range eggs, honey, gelato, artisanal baked goods, and organic fruit and vegetables.

Kuirau Park Saturday Market

These Saturday Rotorua markets are open from 7 am to 1:30 pm each Saturday. Browse the locals’ stalls showcasing fresh produce, coffee, cakes, hot food, plants, healing balms, and more.

Shopping centres and local designer clothing

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Rotorua Central Mall

Discover over 52 speciality shops, dining options, cafes, and supermarkets in Rotorua Central Mall Shopping Centre. Spend hours working the plastic, or just grab what you need. Stores are open seven days a week. This Rotorua shopping centre features easily accessible free parking with entrances off Fenton, Victoria, and Amohau Streets.

Te Ngae Shopping Centre

Te Ngae Shopping Centre is a small local shopping mall perfect for grabbing a coffee or shopping for tonight’s dinner. The shops include a greengrocer, takeaway, cafes, and ATMs.

Grace & Glory

Grace and Glory is your go-to for stunning Rotorua homewares, gifts, and clothing. Enjoy shopping for everything you need for your home or find the perfect souvenir for friends and family.

Ahu Boutique

Rotorua fashion designer Adrienne Whitewood opened Ahu Boutique to showcase the very best of Māori-inspired garments and jewellery for women, with each piece telling its own story.

Shopping ideas for families and kids

Image credit: Jelly Belly

Jelly Belly Store & Gallery

Have you ever seen artwork created entirely out of jelly beans? Visit Skyline Rotorua’s Jelly Belly shop to see famous pieces replicated using tens of thousands of jelly beans – you’ll have to see it to believe it!

Monkey Kids

Are you shopping for baby and children’s toys? Monkey Kids offers a thoughtful collection of durable, educational, engaging products that your children can play with for years to come.

Whitcoulls

Need books, toys, stationery, greeting cards, or art supplies? Whitcoulls has an excellent selection at their shops in Inner City Rotorua and across New Zealand.

Get a special souvenir to remember your trip

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Tutanekai Souvenirs

Located in Central Rotorua, visit Tutanekai Souvenirs for authentic and locally produced sheepskin boots, jewellery carved from local stones, magnets, and more.

Simply New Zealand Rotorua

Support locally made, heartfelt treasures with Simply New Zealand – Rotorua. Local designers, artisans, and craftspeople collaborate to bring you exquisite giftware, bespoke designer homeware, clothing, jewellery, and accessories.

Discover more amazing things to do in Rotorua

Once you’ve spent the day shopping, come and take the Skyline Rotorua Gondola up to our Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar for some fantastic food and award-winning wine. Check out Skyline Rotorua’s travel blog for more attractions to see and fun things to do on your journey in Rotorua and throughout New Zealand.

 

Geothermal Rotorua – The Top Attractions

Ready for massive geysers, vivid natural terraces and naturally boiling lakes? Find Rotorua’s best geothermal parks and attractions in our must-visit list.

 

Best White Water Rafting In Rotorua

Guide to Rotorua white water rafting from the Kaituna River to the Rangitaiki River & more. Explore the best grade 1-5 Rotorua rafting experiences here!

 

 

Best Hot Pools In Rotorua

Our guide to the best hot pools in Rotorua, including free & private pools. Swim & soak in natural hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and geothermal spas.

 

 

Best Mini Golf in Rotorua

Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, find a fun mini golf course your friends & family will love. Discover all you need to know about mini golf in Rotorua.

 

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