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Treat Yourself to Southern Hospitality with Our Guide to Invercargill's Best Stores

One of the best (and most fun!) ways to get to know a city is to explore the local shops, and Invercargill is no exception.

Words by: Caitlin Brown

Photography by: Nancy Zhou

Dotted throughout the city are shop owners who make it their mission to stock local makers as well as international brands, and even an iconic department store where you can find just about every brand name you’re after. Ready to indulge in some retail therapy? Ahead, we’ve rounded up 8 of the best places to shop in Invercargill.

See Ya Peter

295 North Rd, Waikiwi, Invercargill

Well-known for their cheeky card selection, varied array of NZ made goods and highly unique, small-batch brands, this home & gift shop is a must-visit for anyone looking to treat themselves. You’ll find stunning coffee-table books, delicious candles, art prints, and other gorgeous homewares to adorn your own home, as well as plenty of foolproof gifts for special occasions.

Table with coasters, cup and sunglasses.

Found My Way

38 Windsor St, Windsor, Invercargill

Get lost in this gift shopping mecca, which caters just as well to those with $30 to spend as those with $300. With a wide range of options, you’d be hard pressed to leave empty-handed. Simply wander through and enjoy the artful displays for a glimpse at creations from a local honey maker, florist, ceramicist, as well as handmade leather bags and darling kids clothes.

Yours Faithfully

32 Kelvin St, Invercargill

An impressive collection of Kiwi and international fashion brands are housed in this beautiful boutique, perched in Invercargill’s oldest building. The hangers at Liz Thomas Designer Clothing are dripping with luxe fabrics and the newest designs, so it’s a go-to for anyone who loves the latest and greatest when it comes to fashion.

Voyant

28 Kelvin Street, Invercargill

A locally owned independent fashion store stocking New Zealand’s favourite brands, like Assembly Label, Commoners, Marle, Jason Lingard, Rains, and more! There’s a huge range of options here, so you’ll easily find everything from jewellery and handbags to wardrobe staples like jackets and jeans. You can even check out their Instagram for a little extra styling inspiration along the way.

H&J Smith

66-74 Tay Street, Invercargill

This sprawling department store has over 12,000 sqm of retail space, making it the perfect go-to for one-stop shopping. Though they have other locations in Gore and Queenstown, the company originally launched in 1900 as a drapery store in the south of Invervargill, and has since evolved into an iconic department store that offers an expansive range of fashion, beauty, outdoor, gift, furniture and homewares.

True Grit

45 Dee Street, Invercargill

True Grit Invercargill launched in 2007, with the goal of curating options that are just a bit different from your average retailer. “Sometimes abrasive, sometimes controversial and sometimes unique. But, always brought to you with a smile on our face and some quality southern customer service.” There’s a mission we can get on board with. The collections serve men, women, and “bigger kids”, with casual streetwear, accessories, and footwear. Etnies, Rastaclat, Osiris, Dr Martens, and Dickies are just a few of the popular brands you’ll find gracing their shelves.

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