The 25% Price Gap Mystery

Is it actually cheaper to buy your Garmin Forerunner 975 from the US? As of May 2026, the data suggests a resounding yes. While New Zealand retailers are listing the Forerunner 975 at a significant markup, US-based stores have maintained a price point that is nearly 25% lower, even when accounting for the exchange rate. For a high-end multisport watch, that difference could easily pay for a new pair of running shoes.

Using a freight forwarder allows you to bridge this geographical gap. By shipping your 975 to a tax-free US address, you avoid state sales taxes before the item even begins its journey to the Southern Hemisphere.

Early Access to Software Features

Beyond the cost, there is the matter of digital jealousy. Historically, Garmin has rolled out advanced training metrics and mapping updates to the US market first. By the time these features reach New Zealand firmware, the US version users have already been using them for weeks. Buying a US model ensures you are at the front of the queue for every 2026 software update.

How to Shop US Stores from New Zealand

To get your hands on this 2026 release, you simply need a how it works guide to lead the way. First, you sign up for a US address. Once you have that, you can shop US store sites like Amazon, REI, or Garmin US. You enter your unique suite number as the shipping address, and your package arrives at the warehouse, ready for its long-haul flight to New Zealand.

When US Stores Block Your Kiwi Credit Card

Here is where the sprint hits a hurdle. Some major US retailers—including tech giants and specialized sporting goods stores—have a pesky habit of blocking international credit cards. They might also decline orders that use a known warehouse address as the destination. It is a frustrating experience to see your order cancelled just minutes after you thought you had secured a bargain.

The BuyForMe Solution for Difficult Purchases

If you find yourself stuck at the checkout, comGateway offers a specialized BuyForMe service. This is the safest way to guarantee your order doesn't get cancelled by picky retailers. Instead of struggling with a foreign payment system, you tell us what you want, and we buy the item on your behalf using a US domestic credit card. This proxy shopping method bypasses regional restrictions entirely, ensuring your Garmin Forerunner 975 is secured and ready for international shipping.

Navigating Shipping and Import Tax

Before you hit the buy button, you should always check the shipping calculator to

estimate shipping cost

for your specific NZ city. Remember that New Zealand customs will apply GST to items valued over a certain threshold. Check our guide on import tax to ensure you aren't surprised by any extra fees at the border.

Finally, keep in mind that electronics with lithium batteries have specific rules. You might also like to check our list of prohibited items to ensure your specific model doesn't face any restricted goods delays. Using a reliable package forwarding partner ensures your watch is handled with care and delivered via DHL international shipping or FedEx international shipping for maximum speed and security.