The Labubu Craze: Why Everyone in New Zealand is Obsessed
If you have spent any time on social media lately, you have likely seen the mischievous, serrated-tooth grin of Labubu. This quirky character, created by artist Kasing Lung as part of 'The Monsters' series, has evolved from a niche art toy into a global cultural phenomenon. In 2026, the hype shows no signs of slowing down, especially in New Zealand, where the demand for these designer vinyl toys often outstrips local supply.
While the aesthetic appeal is undeniable, getting your hands on a Labubu 'The Monsters - Fall Wild' or 'Exciting Macaron' series in Kiwi shops can be a frustrating experience. Local stockists often sell out within minutes, and the secondary market prices in New Zealand can be double or even triple the original retail price. This is where savvy collectors are turning their gaze toward the United States.
Why Buying Labubu from the USA Saves You Money
The primary reason to source your collection from North America is simple: price and availability. Major retailers like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, and specialized art toy boutiques maintain larger inventories and adhere to standard retail pricing. Even when you factor in the cost of international shipping rates, buying multiple blind boxes or a full case from a US store is frequently cheaper than buying from a local reseller.
Furthermore, many US retailers offer exclusive drops that never reach New Zealand shores. By shopping like a local in the US, you gain access to a wider variety of series and limited editions. To see exactly how much you can save, it is always a good idea to use a shipping calculator to estimate the total cost delivered to your doorstep in Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch.
The Challenge of International Shipping
The main hurdle for Kiwi collectors is that many top-tier US toy stores do not ship directly to New Zealand, or if they do, the shipping fees are prohibitively expensive. This is why using a comGateway account is the preferred strategy for serious hobbyists. By using a reliable package forwarder, you get a dedicated US mailing address (often in a sales-tax-free state like Oregon), allowing you to shop from any US website as if you lived there.
Check our guide on: Read This Before You Buy Labubu: The Kiwi Guide to Sourcing Art Toys from the USA
How to Successfully Import Labubu to New Zealand
Navigating the US e-commerce landscape is straightforward once you have the right tools. Here is the most cost-effective workflow for 2026:
- Find Your Source: Start with official sites like Pop Mart US or reputable partners. If a store doesn't accept your New Zealand credit card, you can utilize a BuyForMe service to have an agent handle the purchase for you.
- Consolidate Your Packages: Never ship just one blind box. The secret to saving on shipping from USA to New Zealand is consolidation. Wait for several orders to arrive at your US address and ship them as one parcel to reduce the 'first half-kg' premium.
- Leverage Memberships: If you are a frequent collector, looking into Prime membership benefits can lead to significant long-term savings on fuel surcharges and processing fees.
You might also like: Read more: Why 75% of New Zealand Collectors are Sourcing Labubu Art Toys Directly from the USA
Navigating New Zealand Customs and GST in 2026
When importing goods into New Zealand, it is crucial to understand the tax implications to avoid unexpected costs. As of 2026, New Zealand Customs requires GST (Goods and Services Tax) of 15% to be paid on most imported items. However, there are specific thresholds and methods for collection that can affect your total spend.
| Item Value (NZD) | GST Requirement | Duty Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Under $1,000 | Collected at point of sale or by forwarder | Usually Exempt |
| Over $1,000 | Paid at the border | May apply depending on category |
By keeping your individual shipments under the $1,000 NZD threshold, you simplify the clearance process. Using a professional forwarder ensures that all paperwork is handled correctly, preventing your precious Labubus from getting stuck in a customs warehouse. For more details on avoiding pitfalls, check out this resource: Read more: The Hidden Costs of Importing Labubu to New Zealand and How to Avoid Them.
Pro-Tips for the Savvy Kiwi Collector
To truly master the art of the 'Money Saver' angle, keep these tips in mind for your 2026 hauls:
- Shop During US Holidays: Even art toy stores have sales during Black Friday, Labor Day, and Memorial Day. These discounts often make the international shipping essentially 'free' compared to NZ prices.
- Check the Weight: Labubu vinyl figures are relatively light. Use this to your advantage by filling up the remaining weight capacity of your shipping box with other small items.
- Track Your Shipments: Always choose a shipping method that provides end-to-end tracking so you can watch your monsters travel across the Pacific in real-time.
By shopping directly from the US and utilizing a strategic shipping partner, you can grow your Labubu collection faster and more affordably than ever before. Don't let local scarcity hold back your hobby—start sourcing from the source today.
