WHERE TO START

There is a plethora of design history floating around New Zealand in op-shops, vintage stores and on Trade Me – it just takes a little searching to find it. Homeware trends are often cyclical, with many pieces inspired by, or recreations of, earlier designs. If you know what you’re looking for, you can buy an original, made-to-last piece manufactured in New Zealand at a bargain price.

If you haven’t shopped secondhand before, try dipping your toe in by purchasing a piece of art, a set of beautiful glasses, or a small item of furniture. Look for colours and styles that appeal to you and will fit into your home. Opt for timeless designs, good-quality materials, and pieces without much damage. If older styles don’t appeal, it’s still worth shopping secondhand – you can find items that are current or only a season old in op-shops and on Trade Me.