- What is the Pop Mart Star People Craze?
- Why New Zealanders are Buying from the USA in 2026
- First Time Importing? Here is How It Works
- Estimating Your Shipping Costs to New Zealand
- What to Do if a US Store Rejects Your Credit Card
- Understanding New Zealand Customs and GST
- Safety Tips for First-Time Collectors
What is the Pop Mart Star People Craze?
If you have been scrolling through social media lately, you have likely seen the ethereal, whimsical designs of the Pop Mart Star People collection. As we move through January 2026, this specific series has become a global phenomenon, blending celestial aesthetics with the thrill of blind-box collecting. These figures aren't just toys; they are miniature pieces of art that symbolize personality traits, zodiac influences, and cosmic wonder.
The hype is real because of the limited production runs and the "chase" figures that are incredibly rare. While Pop Mart has a global presence, certain exclusive variants and restocks often hit the United States market first or stay in stock longer due to the massive volume of inventory allocated to North American retailers.
Why New Zealanders are Buying from the USA in 2026
For collectors in New Zealand, getting your hands on the latest Star People drop can be frustrating. Local hobby shops often have limited stock that sells out within minutes, and international shipping directly from manufacturers can sometimes bypass our corner of the Pacific entirely.
Shopping from major US retailers like the official Pop Mart US store, Minty Fresh, or even large marketplaces like eBay and Amazon US, gives Kiwi collectors a much higher chance of securing the specific figures they want. Furthermore, in 2026, US retailers often bundle these collectibles with exclusive pins or stickers that aren't available elsewhere. To bridge the gap between a US storefront and your doorstep in Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch, using a reliable package forwarder is the most efficient solution.
First Time Importing? Here is How It Works
If you are new to the world of international shopping, the process might seem daunting, but it is actually quite straightforward. The core problem is that many US stores do not ship directly to New Zealand, or if they do, the costs are astronomical. This is where a freight forwarder comes in.
A forwarder provides you with a physical US address (usually in a tax-free state like Oregon) that you use at checkout. Once your Pop Mart Star People package arrives at that address, the forwarder notifies you, and you can then ship it to your home in New Zealand. If you want a step-by-step guide on the logistics, it essentially breaks down to: Register, Shop, Ship to US Address, and Forward to NZ.
Estimating Your Shipping Costs to New Zealand
One of the biggest concerns for first-time importers is the fear of hidden costs. Shipping a single blind box is light, but if you are buying a whole "Case" (usually 12 boxes), the weight and volume add up. To avoid any surprises, you should always use a shipping calculator before you hit the "buy" button.
In 2026, shipping rates are influenced by fuel surcharges and seasonal demand. By entering the dimensions of a standard Pop Mart case into the calculator, you can decide whether it is more cost-effective to ship one item or wait and consolidate multiple purchases into one larger box to save on the "first half-kilogram" base rate. This is the pro-tip for shipping from USA to New Zealand: consolidation is your best friend.
What to Do if a US Store Rejects Your Credit Card
Sometimes, even with a US shipping address, you might run into a "billing block." Some US websites only accept credit cards issued by American banks. If you find yourself unable to complete your purchase of that rare Star People hidden figure, don't panic.
You can use the BuyForMe service (also known as assisted purchase). With this service, the forwarder buys the item on your behalf using their own US payment methods, and you simply reimburse them. This is a lifesaver for high-demand drops where every second counts and you can't afford a checkout error.
Understanding New Zealand Customs and GST
When importing goods into New Zealand in 2026, it is vital to understand the local tax laws to ensure your Star People figures aren't held up at the border.
| Item Value (NZD) | GST Requirement | Duty/Entry Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Under $1,000 | 15% GST usually collected at checkout | None |
| Over $1,000 | 15% GST | Import Entry Transaction Fee applies |
Most Pop Mart orders will fall well under the $1,000 threshold. However, keep in mind that New Zealand Customs calculates the value based on the total cost of the goods plus shipping. Since 2019, many offshore retailers collect the 15% GST at the point of sale. If they don't, comGateway and other forwarders can often help facilitate the necessary documentation to ensure a smooth transition through NZ Customs.
Safety Tips for First-Time Collectors
To make your first importing experience a success, follow these simple rules:
- Check Seller Ratings: If buying from a marketplace like eBay, ensure the seller has a high rating and specifically mentions "original packaging" for Star People figures.
- Insurance is Worth It: For rare "Secret" figures, always opt for shipping insurance. It costs very little but provides peace of mind.
- Track Your Package: Use the tracking numbers provided by your forwarder to follow your celestial treasures across the Pacific.
The Pop Mart Star People collection is a beautiful addition to any shelf. By using a US address and a trusted forwarder, you can bypass local stock shortages and join the global community of collectors with ease. Happy hunting!
