Where to Shop for One of a Kind Pieces in Palmerston North

Starting out strong, Zimmerman features exclusively original, unique pieces. As one of Palmerston North’s favourite art galleries, Zimmerman offers creative works in multiple mediums, including ceramics, paintings and bronze sculptures. All creations are by Kiwi artists, but if you want to really support local, check out the work in store by Paul and Fran Dibble. The talented couple are not just some of Palmy’s most prominent artists, they are also particularly skilful at bronze sculpting. Fran even has a sculpture right outside the store (a gilded drop, paying homage to water), but we’re not sure that one is for sale!

Pork Chop Hill is uniquely Palmerston North, the clothing brand equivalent of a wink and a nudge between locals in the know. Formed by locals Catherine Russ and Simon Francis, the iconic t-shirt producer is named for the popular hang-out spot frequented by newly-licensed teenagers, runners and dog walkers, and visitors seeking a view. But locals may need to get in line - these one of a kind t-shirts are cool enough to resonate even with the out-of-towners. If your interest is piqued and you want to visit the store at 153 The Square (their opening hours are Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm).

Named for the family’s extremely successful show pony, Orlando Store is run by stylish sisters Emma and Jet on the grounds of Orlando Country. Orlando Country is a successful wedding, events and corporate venue run by the family, with a cafe/restaurant on site, as well as a driving range and a 9 hole golf course. The store stocks tastefully-chosen products that complement everyday modern living with classic style, featuring unique and beautiful brands such as Honest Wolf, Eddy & Moss and Ruanui Station. With the goal of bringing a spark to the Manawatu shopping scene, Orlando Store has succeeded in providing a beautiful shopping experience, whether in the brick-and-mortar or online.

Every town needs a one of a kind bookshop, and Palmy struck gold with the opening of Bruce McKenzie Booksellers. An architect by trade, Bruce designed the store’s whole interior to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. Home to a vast collection of diverse titles, Bruce focusses on choosing books that he believes customers will enjoy, rather than being led by what the big publishing houses are promoting. Bruce also makes sure to allocate a big chunk of shelf-space to books and local authors telling the stories of Aotearoa New Zealand and the Manawatū region. It’s easy to lose yourself amidst so many colourful spines, but Bruce McKenzie Booksellers is the place to go, whether you have a specific title in mind, want to learn more about the region, or just want to kill some time browsing.

Nothing says one of a kind like a piece of jewellery, and Cameron Jewellery on King Street is our pick of the bunch. Peter Cameron opened his store many moons ago and it remains proudly family owned to this day. Peter can usually be seen out back, making magic in his workshop, all the while in full view of store patrons through large glass windows. If you’re particularly blessed with patience, you’ll be able to watch Peter fashion all manner of precious creations by hand, including earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets and brooches.  Peter’s style ranges from beautiful classics to masterpieces that are as unusual as they are stunning. Come with a specific piece in mind, or simply appreciate the magic already created, either way it is sure to be one of a kind.

We’re sure that many of you have probably heard of Recycle Boutique, or visited one of its several stores nationwide, but you can rest assured that everything inside is a one of a kind piece. Recycle Boutique is a consignment store, providing a platform for consumers to sell their preloved clothing, shoes and accessories. Consider it a collective effort to minimise fast fashion and reduce environmental waste - in our book getting paid to recycle your clothes is a pretty awesome gig. And for the shopper: go with an open mind and be prepared to be wooed by clothing you least expected. Designer items at bargain prices, what more convincing do you need?

This spacious corner store is a stalwart of the Palmy fashion scene, stocking much loved New Zealand and global brands including Deadly Ponies, Veja, Scotch and Soda and Briarwood, to name just a few. Owners Mavis and Marama are known by locals as the faces of Trumps, having been with the store for almost 40 years and becoming an invaluable part of its brand. Catering to a range of different age and styles, Trumps makes it easy to pick up stylish casual wear as well as an outfit for that special occasion down the track. If you’re at a loose end, Mavis and Marama will happily assist - it’s their service, not just their clothing, that makes Trumps such a triumph.