Frank's Corner

There are run-of-the-mill gift shops in Queenstown and then there’s Frank’s Corner. Home to the handcrafted treasures of over 80 New Zealand artists, this is a shopping experience that showcases an eclectic range of local objects designed and made on these very shores.

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. Before there was a brick-and-mortar store, there was a stall. Over a decade ago, Frank headed to the Remarkables Market in Frankton to display his own NZ-made wool socks – expanding to a range of merino and possum products that quickly became a household brand adored by locals and visitors alike. 

Several years later, an opportunity presented itself to sign the lease on an old charming building on the corner of Camp and Isle Street. Armed with no shopkeeping experience, but a meaningful vision to connect with a community of local makers, Allison and Frank jumped in – scoring a perfect 10 for execution with heart.

You never know what you’ll find inside Frank’s Corner. While a relatively small space, it’s wise to set aside an hour or so to discover every inch of it – be it shelves of unique ceramics, sand pottery, exclusive artworks, candles, handblown glass, one-off jewellery, felted mushrooms, Merino Frank goods or their newest in-house project: a product line of yarn made from superfine wool sourced from Rees Valley Station. It’s near impossible to leave without a new treasure in your pocket – we say don’t fight it.

The only thing that could make this store better? A second location. After the success of their Queenstown-based shop, Allison and Frank opened in Glenorchy, filling an iconic old shed with even more gems (hot tip: don’t miss the Real Fruit Ice Cream cart outside during summer). 

As more and more international chain stores dominate the streetscape, Frank’s Corner is a refreshing alternative for locals and visitors, offering a place of inspiration, truly unique gifts and always a friendly chat.