Insider Secrets to Scoring Labubu Art Toys from the USA and Shipping Them to New Zealand

The Labubu Fever of 2026: Why the Hype?

As we move through 2026, the obsession with Labubu—the mischievous monster created by artist Kasing Lung—has reached a fever pitch. What started as a niche art toy movement has exploded into a global cultural phenomenon. These quirky characters, with their signature jagged teeth and expressive eyes, have become the must-have items for both seasoned collectors and casual fans in New Zealand.

The hype isn't just about the aesthetic; it's about the thrill of the hunt. Limited edition drops and blind box surprises have created a secondary market that is incredibly competitive. For Kiwis, however, getting these authentic pieces often feels like an uphill battle due to geographical isolation and limited local stock.

The Struggle for New Zealand Collectors

In New Zealand, the availability of authentic Labubu figures is often restricted to a few high-end boutique stores or unreliable resellers. This scarcity leads to massive markups, sometimes triple the original retail price. Furthermore, local retailers often receive stock months after the initial US or Asian release dates.

You might also like: Read more: The Insider Secret to Scoring Authentic Labubu Art Toys Without Paying New Zealand Markups. Many savvy collectors are realizing that the best way to stay ahead of the curve is to look toward the massive US retail market.

Sourcing Directly from the USA: The Expert Move

US-based retailers like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, and even major platforms like eBay and specialized art toy marketplaces often have the deepest inventory of Labubu figures. By shopping directly from the USA, you gain access to the latest series releases the moment they drop, often at much more reasonable price points than what you'd find in Auckland or Wellington.

Check our guide on: Read more: How to Get Labubu Art Toys for Less by Sourcing Directly from the USA. Sourcing from the US allows you to participate in exclusive North American drops that never see a New Zealand shelf.

How to Ship Your Labubu to New Zealand with comGateway

The biggest hurdle for Kiwis shopping at US stores is that many retailers do not offer international shipping to New Zealand. This is where using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway becomes essential. They provide you with a US shipping address that you can use at checkout, essentially acting as your personal hub in the States.

If you are new to the world of freight forwarding, understanding how it works is simple. Once your Labubu arrives at the US warehouse, you are notified, and you can then choose to ship it directly to your doorstep in New Zealand. This step-by-step guide ensures that your fragile art toys are handled with care and shipped using premium couriers.

Calculating Your Shipping Costs and Fees

Before you hit the "buy" button, it is vital to know exactly what you will be paying. Shipping a small blind box is relatively cheap, but larger vinyl figures can add up. To avoid any surprises, use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the dimensions and weight of your package.

Transparency is key in 2026, and reviewing the international shipping rates beforehand helps you budget for your collection. Remember that shipping fees can vary depending on the speed of delivery you choose, from express air freight to more economical standard options.

The BuyForMe Hack for Exclusive Drops

Sometimes, US stores have strict payment restrictions, only accepting US-based credit cards. This can be a major roadblock for New Zealand residents. In these instances, the BuyForMe service is a lifesaver. This assisted purchase program allows the forwarder to buy the item on your behalf, ensuring you don't miss out on a limited Labubu release because of a payment error.

You might also like: Read more: The Easiest Way to Get Labubu Art Toys to New Zealand Fast. Using these professional services is the difference between a confirmed order and a "Sold Out" screen.

Understanding New Zealand Customs and GST in 2026

When importing goods into New Zealand in 2026, you must be aware of the Inland Revenue and Customs regulations. Currently, GST of 15% is applicable to all goods imported into New Zealand. Many large international retailers collect this at the point of sale, but if they don't, it may be collected at the border.

For items valued over $1,000 NZD, additional customs duties and an import entry transaction fee may apply. Since most Labubu figures fall under this threshold, the process is usually straightforward, but it is always wise to check the FAQ or the help center for the latest updates on regional shipping restrictions. If you need further support, their team can often clarify specific documentation requirements.

Pro Tips for Saving on International Shipping

To maximize your investment in 2026, consider these insider tips:

• Consolidation: Don't ship one Labubu at a time. Buy several, have them arrive at your US address, and consolidate them into one box to save significantly on the first-half-kilogram rates.
• Sales Tax: Use a forwarder that provides a tax-free US address (like one in Oregon) to save the 7-10% US sales tax that usually applies at checkout.
• Repackaging: Request a repackaging service to remove unnecessary bulk from the retailer's shipping box, reducing the volumetric weight.

By following these strategies, you can build an enviable collection of authentic Labubu art toys without the "New Zealand tax." Happy collecting!