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The NYC Exclusive Fever
As of May 2026, the plushie community has set its sights on a specific duo: the 2026 NYC 'Big Apple' and the 'Pretzel' from the Jellycat Amuseable US Regional Series. These designs are currently designated as 'Rising Stars' due to their limited availability outside of the United States. While plushie enthusiasts in Singapore and Australia are scrambling for stock, collectors in New Zealand are finding that these items rarely hit local shelves, often leading to inflated prices on secondary markets.
The appeal lies in the unique embroidery and the regional exclusivity that Jellycat has perfected this year. The 'Big Apple' features a tiny 2026 commemorative tag, making it a high-priority item for those who track us trends and popular products.
Local Resellers vs. US Direct Shipping
When looking at the math, the price discrepancy between a New Zealand-based specialty toy boutique and a US retailer like Nordstrom or the official Jellycat US store is significant. A local reseller might list the 2026 NYC Apple for upwards of $120 NZD, citing 'scarcity.' Conversely, the US retail price remains closer to $35 USD (approx. $58 NZD).
Even when adding the cost of a parcel forwarding service, the total often remains lower than local markup prices. Using a freight forwarder allows you to access these US-exclusive items at their original retail price. You can use a shipping calculator to see how much you could save by bundling multiple plushies into one shipment to Auckland or Wellington.
Buying From US Stores
To secure these items, you will need a tax-free us address. This is particularly useful because stores like FAO Schwarz or Nordstrom often only ship within the 50 states. By using comGateway, you can shop at these US stores as if you were living there.
If you find that your New Zealand credit card is being declined at checkout, which occasionally happens with high-demand releases, the BuyForMe service acts as an assisted purchase option. They will handle the transaction for you, ensuring you don't miss out on the Pretzel before it sells out.
Shipping Logistics and Estimates
Before you hit the checkout button, it is essential to understand the physical profile of these plushies to estimate shipping cost accurately.
| Metric | Estimate for 2026 NYC Apple & Pretzel |
|---|---|
| Box Weight | Approx. 1.1 lbs (0.5 kg) per unit including packaging materials. |
| Box Dimensions | Small (Approx. 20cm x 15cm x 15cm). |
| Volumetric Warning | Plush toys are light but can be bulky. If the retailer uses an oversized box, carriers may charge based on Volumetric Weight rather than actual weight. Always request repacking through your package forwarding provider to minimize space. |
| Battery Check | This item does not contain lithium batteries. It is safe for standard air freight without hazardous material surcharges. |
New Zealand Import Taxes and GST
New Zealand's Customs regulations require a clear understanding of import duties. Currently, in 2026, GST of 15% is typically collected at the point of sale by large offshore retailers for goods valued under $1,000 NZD. However, if the retailer does not collect it, you may be required to pay customs tax upon the parcel's arrival in New Zealand.
Check our guide on GST/VAT for the most recent updates on thresholds to ensure there are no surprises when your NYC Apple reaches the border.
Finding More US Trends
The Jellycat US Regional Series is just one example of products that are often cheaper or exclusively available in North America. To keep an eye on other top us deals, regularly check the trends portal. Whether it is limited edition tech or regional collectibles, using a forward packages strategy is the most efficient way to maintain your collection without the local 'exclusivity tax.'
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