Journey & Co

Just north of Hamilton’s CBD, tucked away on Princes Street with the rare luxury of plentiful parking, Journey & Co has become a go-to destination for thoughtful gifting and stylish homewares. Founded and run by friends and business partners Krystal Roughton and Nikki Carlyon, Journey & Co is a reflection of their shared taste, energy, and resilience. Between them, they juggle seven children, a thriving business, and a commitment to stocking only products they truly love. If you’ve spotted something swoon-worthy on Instagram, chances are it’s already on their shelves, and with a one-hour click-and-collect service, it could be in your hands before your coffee gets cold.

Beyond their curated selection of gifts and homewares, Journey & Co has a deeper purpose. They proudly stock products from over 20 pakihi Māori, ensuring that every item carrying a Māori label is created or designed by people who whakapapa Māori. This commitment to authenticity and representation has been a long-held goal, and its growth is something they’re particularly proud of. It’s not just about selling beautiful things; it’s about honouring the people and culture behind them.

Their journey hasn’t been without challenges. When they moved into their current, larger space four years ago, they were hit with yet another Covid lockdown only weeks later. With foot traffic gone overnight, they pivoted fast, launching Facebook Live Shows to bring the shop directly into customers’ homes. What began as a survival tactic became a beloved fixture, with customers (especially those outside Hamilton) asking for the live streams to continue long after restrictions lifted. It’s a testament to how Krystal and Nikki have built not just a store, but a community.

The girls have recently expanded their gift box selection with a brand-new "Build a Box" section in-store, meaning you can now create the perfect, personalised gift within a super quick turnaround. Whether you're time-poor or need a go-to option for client gifting, their curated range is designed to take the stress out of giving. Just pick your favourites, and they’ll box it up and have it ready to impress.

Whether you’re hunting for the perfect baby shower gift, a 21st keepsake, a wedding present, or a little something to brighten your own home, the mission of Journey & Co is simple: to make life easier and gifting more joyful. Krystal and Nikki’s story is one of adaptability, heart, and a knack for turning challenges into opportunities, and in doing so, they’ve brought something truly special to Hamilton’s retail scene.