Table of Contents
The Labubu Phenomenon: Why the Hype is Real in 2026
If you’ve spent more than five minutes on social media lately, you’ve likely seen those iconic serrated teeth and mischievous eyes. Labubu, the flagship character of Kasing Lung’s "The Monsters" series, has officially transcended the world of high-end art toys to become a full-blown cultural icon. In 2026, the craze shows no signs of slowing down in New Zealand.
But why is everyone in Auckland and Wellington suddenly hunting for these vinyl figures? It’s a mix of celebrity endorsement—thanks to stars like Lisa from Blackpink bringing them into the mainstream—and the thrill of the "blind box." There’s something addictive about the mystery of not knowing which variant you’re getting until you unbox it. Whether it’s the fuzzy "Macaron" series or the larger vinyl collectibles, Labubu represents a blend of street art and cute aesthetics that resonates perfectly with the Kiwi DIY and designer spirit.
Why Shop US Stores for Pop Mart?
While Pop Mart has a growing presence globally, collectors in New Zealand often find themselves frustrated by limited stock and missing collections. US-based retailers like the official Pop Mart US store, Mindzai, and even major marketplaces often get exclusive drops and larger restocks that don’t always make it to our shores.
The problem? Many of these US stores don’t offer direct shipping to New Zealand, or if they do, the costs are astronomical. This is where using a freight forwarder becomes a game-changer. By using a US-based address, you can access the same inventory as a local American collector, often at much better prices before the resale market markups kick in.
How to Get Your Labubu to NZ: A Step-by-Step Guide
Snagging a limited-edition drop requires speed and a solid plan. If you’ve ever tried to buy from a US store only to find they don’t accept your Kiwi credit card or won’t ship to a PO Box, you might want to look into a proxy shopping service. Also known as "Buy For Me," this service allows a local expert to purchase the item on your behalf, ensuring you don’t miss out on those 2:00 AM NZT drops.
If you're ready to handle the shopping yourself, here is a quick step-by-step guide to getting your haul home:
- Sign Up: Get your own tax-free US address from comGateway. This address is located in Oregon, meaning you pay 0% US sales tax on your Labubu purchase.
- Shop: Enter your US address at checkout on your favorite toy sites.
- Notify: Once your package arrives at the warehouse, you'll be notified to arrange your international shipping.
- Consolidate: If you bought multiple blind boxes from different sellers, you can combine them into one box to save significantly on shipping fees.
Navigating International Shipping and Costs
One of the biggest concerns for Kiwi collectors is the "shipping shock." We all know that moving things across the Pacific isn't cheap. However, you don't have to fly blind. Before you commit to a purchase, it is a smart move to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the weight and dimensions of your toy.
When it comes to shipping from US to New Zealand, speed and reliability are key. Most collectors prefer express options to ensure their rare collectibles spend as little time in transit as possible. While budget options exist, high-value Labubus are usually better off with tracked services that provide peace of mind.
NZ Customs and Import Tax: What You Need to Know
As of 2026, New Zealand’s customs regulations remain strictly enforced. When you bring goods into the country, you need to be aware of the potential import tax and GST. Currently, for most items bought online from overseas, the GST is collected at the point of sale if the retailer is registered with Inland Revenue. However, if the value of your shipment exceeds $1,000 NZD, you may be subject to additional customs duties and an Import Entry Transaction Fee.
Always keep your receipts and declarations accurate. Most international shipping providers will handle the paperwork for you, but it’s your responsibility to ensure the values are correct to avoid delays at the border in Auckland.
Safety First: Prohibited Items and Fragile Goods
While Labubu vinyl figures are generally safe to ship, some special editions—especially those with electronic components, batteries, or liquid-filled "snow globe" styles—might fall under prohibited items or restricted goods. Before buying a specialized or "unusual" Labubu variant, check our guide on restricted goods to ensure it can actually be flown to New Zealand.
Additionally, since Labubu boxes are often just as valuable as the toys themselves, always request extra padding or "repacking" services from your freight forwarder to ensure those corners stay crisp during their long journey home.
Final Thoughts for Kiwi Collectors
The Labubu craze is more than just a trend; it's a vibrant community of collectors. By utilizing a proxy shopping service and a reliable US-to-NZ shipping route, you can bypass the local stock shortages and build a world-class collection right from your couch in New Zealand. Happy hunting!
