Is It Actually Worth Importing the Pucky Electronic Wooden Fish to New Zealand?

The 2026 Pucky Craze: Why Everyone Wants an Electronic Wooden Fish

As we move through January 2026, a peculiar yet charming device has taken over social media feeds from TikTok to Instagram: the Pucky Electronic Wooden Fish. For the uninitiated, a "wooden fish" (or Muyu) is a traditional percussion instrument used by Mahayana Buddhists during rituals. However, the Pucky version—designed in collaboration with the renowned artist Pucky—has transformed this ancient tool into a must-have piece of "desk therapy."

The 2026 model features a sleek, pastel aesthetic, integrated LED merit counters, and high-fidelity sound chips that mimic the calming "clack" of traditional wood. In a high-stress world, this device offers a moment of digital Zen. It’s not just a toy; it’s a collector's item and a mindfulness tool that tracks your "merit" points every time you tap it. While it’s trending globally, it has become particularly elusive in the New Zealand market, leading many Kiwis to ask: how do we get one?

Why New Zealanders Are Looking to US Stores

Despite its popularity, New Zealand’s local retail landscape often lags behind when it comes to niche designer tech and collectibles. Most major drops for Pucky merchandise occur in the United States or East Asia. For Kiwis, the US market is often the most accessible due to the sheer volume of stock available at retailers like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, and various specialty tech boutiques.

However, the biggest hurdle remains shipping. Many US-based retailers do not offer direct shipping to New Zealand, or if they do, the rates are prohibitively expensive. This is why savvy shoppers are turning to a reliable package forwarder like comGateway to bridge the gap. By using a US-based shipping address, you can unlock access to stores that would otherwise be off-limits.

Shipping Logistics: Getting Your Pucky to Aotearoa

Once you’ve found your Pucky Electronic Wooden Fish in a US store, the next step is getting it across the Pacific. Using comGateway, you receive a dedicated US address to use at checkout. Your package is sent to a warehouse in a sales-tax-free state (like Oregon), which immediately saves you around 7-10% on the initial purchase price.

If you find that a US store doesn't accept your New Zealand credit card—a common frustration in 2026—you can utilize the BuyForMe service. This assisted purchase option allows the forwarder to buy the item on your behalf, ensuring you don't miss out on limited-edition releases.

The Real Cost Breakdown: Shipping and Fees

Is it actually worth it? To answer that, you need to look at the total landed cost. The Pucky Electronic Wooden Fish is relatively lightweight, which is good news for international shipping. However, volume can sometimes affect the price. To avoid any nasty surprises, it is highly recommended to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost before you commit to the purchase.

Typically, shipping a small electronic item from the US to New Zealand can range from $25 to $50 USD depending on the speed of delivery. When you factor in the base price of the item (usually around $60 - $90 USD), the total investment starts to climb. You must weigh this against the rarity of the item and the joy it brings to your workspace.

Navigating New Zealand Customs and GST

One of the most important aspects of importing goods into New Zealand in 2026 is understanding the tax implications. Since late 2019, New Zealand has required offshore retailers and forwarders to collect 15% GST on low-value goods (items valued at $1,000 NZD or less). If the retailer doesn't collect it at the point of sale, Customs may hold your package at the border.

You should check our guide on import duties to see how GST and potential customs fees might apply to your specific order. For a single Pucky Electronic Wooden Fish, you likely won't hit the duty threshold, but the 15% GST is almost a certainty. Always budget for this extra 15% to ensure your "merit-making" doesn't turn into a financial headache.

Is It Allowed? Checking Restricted Goods

Before you ship any electronic device, you must ensure it complies with international shipping regulations. The Pucky Electronic Wooden Fish contains a small lithium-ion battery or uses USB power. While generally safe, some carriers have strict rules about how batteries are packaged and flown.

Before finalizing your order, take a quick look at the prohibited items list to ensure that the specific model you are buying isn't subject to any new 2026 restrictions. Generally, consumer electronics are fine, but it’s always better to be safe than to have your package returned or destroyed by customs.

The Verdict: Is It Actually Worth Importing?

So, is the Pucky Electronic Wooden Fish worth the effort of importing to New Zealand? If you are a collector of Pucky’s work or someone who deeply values aesthetic mindfulness tools, the answer is a resounding yes. The landed cost—including shipping and GST—will likely sit around $130 - $160 NZD. For a high-quality, limited-edition designer piece, this is a justifiable expense for many enthusiasts.

However, if you are just looking for a simple fidget toy, the cost of international shipping might feel steep. The key to making it "worth it" is consolidation. If you use your US forwarding address to buy multiple items and ship them together, the cost per item drops significantly. By planning your 2026 shopping hauls strategically, you can bring a piece of global tech culture right to your doorstep in New Zealand without breaking the bank.