The 2026 Labubu Craze: Why the Hype is Real
Labubu, the mischievous monster with serrated teeth created by Kasing Lung, has transitioned from a niche designer toy to a global cultural phenomenon. In 2026, the demand for Pop Mart’s The Monsters series has reached an all-time high in New Zealand. Driven by social media trends and high-profile celebrity collectors, these blind boxes are more than just toys; they are liquid assets in the collector market.
The problem for Kiwi fans is twofold: local stock is perpetually sold out, and when it is available, the "New Zealand tax"—the massive markup added by local resellers—makes collecting an expensive hobby. To get the latest series like the 'Exciting Macaron' or 'Have a Seat' vinyl plushes without the 40% markup, you need to look at the US market.
The Math: NZ Local Pricing vs. US Direct Import
Let’s look at the numbers. As of January 2026, a single Labubu blind box in a US retail store typically retails for approximately $16 to $20 USD. In New Zealand, specialty hobby shops often list these same boxes for $45 to $60 NZD, provided they even have stock. Even with current exchange rates, the US retail price is significantly lower.
The smart shopper's strategy is to buy in bulk. Purchasing a full sealed case (usually 6 to 12 boxes) from the US ensures you get the best unit price and a chance at a 'Secret' figure. When you buy from the US, you can use a reliable package forwarder like comGateway to bridge the gap between American retailers and your doorstep in Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch.
Best US Stores to Source Labubu Blind Boxes
The US market has a much deeper inventory than New Zealand. If you are hunting for Labubu, these are your primary targets:
- Pop Mart US Official: The primary source for new releases at MSRP.
- Mindzai: A reputable designer toy retailer that often stocks rarer blind box series.
- eBay US: Ideal for finding specific figures from older 2025 or early 2026 series that are no longer in production.
Some US-based retailers may have restrictive payment policies or refuse to ship to international billing addresses. In these instances, using a BuyForMe service can save you the headache. You can find more details on proxy shopping through the comGateway help center to ensure you never miss a limited drop.
The Logistics: Getting Your Haul to New Zealand
Once your Labubu haul reaches your US suite, the next step is international transit. Shipping a single small box isn't cost-effective, but consolidating multiple orders is where the savings happen. By combining your Labubu purchases with other US brands, you significantly reduce the cost per item.
To plan your budget effectively, use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost based on the weight of your package. This transparency allows you to calculate exactly how many boxes you should buy to make the shipping cost worthwhile. You can also review the latest international shipping rates to choose between express or standard delivery options depending on how fast you want your monsters to arrive.
NZ Customs and GST: Avoiding Hidden Costs
New Zealand's import rules are relatively straightforward but require attention. For most goods valued under $1,000 NZD, you generally won't be hit with heavy duties, but GST (Goods and Services Tax) of 15% is applicable. When your package arrives, if the value exceeds the threshold, Customs New Zealand will hold it until the tax is cleared.
Check our guide on import duties to understand how these fees are calculated. Staying under the $1,000 threshold per shipment is a common tactic for smart shoppers to avoid the extra administrative fees associated with commercial-level imports.
Pro-Tips for Kiwi Collectors
If you find yourself frequently importing toys or fashion from the US, consider the long-term costs. Many frequent shippers opt for Prime membership benefits to access discounted international shipping and extended storage times. This is particularly useful for Labubu collectors who want to wait for several different drops before shipping everything home in one large box.
Maximizing Your Savings with Smart Shipping
To truly beat the New Zealand retail prices, follow this checklist:
| Step | Action | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buy from US MSRP stores | Saves 30-40% vs NZ retail |
| 2 | Consolidate orders | Reduces shipping fees per unit |
| 3 | Check the FAQ | Ensures no restricted items are in your cart |
By bypassing the local supply chain and managing your own imports through a US address, you gain access to a wider variety of Labubu series and significantly lower prices. In the 2026 market, being a "smart shopper" isn't just about finding the product—it's about mastering the logistics of the global marketplace.
