Table of Contents
- Why is Labubu Trending in 2026?
- The Challenge for New Zealand Collectors
- Sourcing Labubu from the USA: The Best Stores
- The Easiest Way to Ship Labubu from the USA to NZ
- Estimating Your Shipping Costs and Rates
- Navigating New Zealand Customs and Import Rules
- How to Save More on Your Art Toy Collection
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Labubu Trending in 2026?
If you have been browsing social media lately, you have undoubtedly seen the mischievous, sharp-toothed grin of Labubu. Part of "The Monsters" collection created by artist Kasing Lung and produced by Pop Mart, Labubu has transcended the status of a mere toy to become a global cultural phenomenon. In 2026, the demand for these designer art toys has reached a fever pitch, driven by limited-edition releases, high-profile celebrity endorsements, and a vibrant secondary market.
The appeal lies in the unique blend of "cute but creepy" aesthetics. Collectors in the US and Asia have been lining up for hours to snag the latest drops, but for those of us in New Zealand, the hunt is a bit more complicated. Because Labubu figures are often released in "blind boxes," the thrill of the chase is part of the experience, leading many enthusiasts to seek out specific series that are often sold out locally within minutes.
The Challenge for New Zealand Collectors
New Zealand collectors often face two major hurdles: limited local stock and significant markups. While some specialty shops in Auckland or Wellington might carry Pop Mart items, they rarely have the full range of Labubu series available in the United States. Furthermore, the prices in NZD can often be double what you would pay at a US retailer.
By sourcing directly from the US market, you gain access to a much wider inventory, including exclusive collaborations and older series that are no longer available in the Southern Hemisphere. To bridge the gap, many savvy collectors use comGateway, a reliable package forwarder, to shop US stores as if they lived there.
Sourcing Labubu from the USA: The Best Stores
To get the best deals and the most authentic products, you should look at major US retailers. Pop Mart’s official US webstore is the primary source, but other platforms like Amazon US, eBay (for rare finds), and specialized designer toy boutiques are also excellent options. Many of these stores offer free domestic shipping within the US, which you can take advantage of by using your US sales-tax-exempt address provided by your forwarder.
If you are wondering how to navigate this process, check our step-by-step guide on how it works. This ensures you never miss a drop just because a store doesn't offer direct international shipping to New Zealand.
The Easiest Way to Ship Labubu from the USA to NZ
The most efficient way to get your Labubu collection home is through a streamlined forwarding service. Once your items arrive at your US address, you can consolidate multiple orders into one box to save on international transit costs. This is particularly useful if you are buying individual blind boxes from different sellers.
It is no surprise that Read more: Why 75% of New Zealand Collectors are Sourcing Labubu Art Toys Directly from the USA. The ability to control the shipping process and ensure fragile art toys are packed securely is a game-changer for serious hobbyists.
Estimating Your Shipping Costs and Rates
Budgeting is key when collecting art toys. Before you commit to a purchase, it is wise to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost. Factors such as the weight of the vinyl figures and the dimensions of the packaging will influence the final price.
You can also review the latest international shipping rates to understand how different carrier options (like DHL or FedEx) affect the speed and cost of your delivery. For lightweight items like Labubu blind boxes, the costs are surprisingly manageable when consolidated.
Navigating New Zealand Customs and Import Rules
As of 2026, New Zealand’s import rules require Goods and Services Tax (GST) to be applied to most items purchased online from overseas. For shipments valued under $1,000 NZD, many large retailers collect GST at the point of sale. However, when using a forwarder, you should be prepared for how these fees are handled during the clearance process.
You might also like to Read more: How to Get Labubu Art Toys for Less by Sourcing Directly from the USA to see how strategic shopping can offset these import costs. Always ensure your customs declarations are accurate to avoid delays at the border.
How to Save More on Your Art Toy Collection
For frequent shoppers, there are ways to make the hobby more affordable. Consider looking into Prime membership benefits, which often include discounted shipping rates and extended storage times in the US warehouse. This allows you to wait for multiple Labubu releases over a month and ship them all together in one go.
Before you click buy, Read more: Read This Before You Buy Labubu: The Kiwi Guide to Sourcing Art Toys from the USA. This guide covers specific tips for New Zealanders to avoid common pitfalls in the art toy market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have more questions about shipping or specific US retailers? The FAQ section is a great resource for support and help center information regarding prohibited items, insurance, and tracking your Labubu treasures.
Is Labubu still popular in 2026?
Yes, Labubu remains one of the top-tier art toy brands globally in 2026, with new themed series being released almost monthly. The community in New Zealand is growing rapidly, making the secondary market very active.
How long does shipping take from the USA to NZ?
Typically, once your package leaves the US warehouse, it takes between 3 to 8 business days to arrive in New Zealand, depending on the shipping method you choose.
Can I ship multiple Labubus in one box?
Absolutely. Consolidation is the best way to save money. By combining several small blind boxes into one larger shipping carton, you significantly reduce the "first half-kilogram" base rate charged by international carriers.