Save $210 on the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L by skipping the New Zealand specialty shop markup

Why the 2026 Evergreen Edition is the current obsession

If you have been scrolling through hiking forums lately, you have probably noticed a lot of chatter from the Singaporean ultralight community about the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L (2026 'Evergreen' Edition). This isn't just a color refresh; the 2026 model uses a refined Ultra 200X fabric that is significantly more abrasion-resistant while keeping the total weight under 600 grams. For those of us trekking the Te Araroa or weekend-warrior-ing through the Tararuas, that weight-to-capacity ratio is gold.

The problem is that this specific 'Evergreen' colorway is currently restricted to US domestic shipping. Local specialty shops in Singapore and even boutique retailers here in New Zealand are trying to capitalize on the scarcity, often listing the pack with a $200+ markup over the US retail price. But here is the thing: you don't have to wait for a local distributor to decide to stock it at an inflated price.

The myth about shipping ultralight gear to New Zealand

There is a common assumption among Kiwi hikers that ordering from niche US brands like Zpacks is more trouble than it is worth. People often think the shipping costs will cancel out any savings, or that the package will get stuck in a customs limbo forever. That is a myth we need to correct right now. By using a dedicated freight forwarder, you can access the same pricing as a US resident.

In fact, when you use a tax-free US address provided by comGateway, you avoid paying US state sales tax, which can save you an additional 7% to 10% before the item even leaves the warehouse. This effectively offsets a large portion of your international shipping service costs.

Getting past the 'US-only' checkout block

The biggest hurdle for New Zealand buyers isn't the physical distance; it is the digital wall. Many top-tier US stores—including giants like Nike, Sephora, and even specialized gear shops—have a frustrating habit of blocking international credit cards or declining orders that use a known forwarding address. They want to keep their inventory within the domestic market, which leaves us Kiwis out in the cold.

This is where the BuyForMe service becomes your best friend. Instead of risking a cancelled order or a temporary hold on your funds, you can use this assisted purchase program. You simply tell comGateway what you want, and they buy the item on your behalf using a US domestic credit card. It is the safest way to guarantee your 2026 Evergreen pack is secured before the limited production run sells out. If you have ever been frustrated by a store rejecting your NZ debit card, this is the solution you have been looking for.

Managing international shipping to your doorstep

Once your pack arrives at the warehouse, you have full control. You don't have to guess when it will arrive in Auckland or Christchurch. You can use the shipping calculator to get a clear picture of the transit costs based on the pack's weight. Because the Arc Haul Ultra is so light, it is actually one of the most cost-effective items to shop US store items and ship abroad.

To get the best value, you might consider consolidating your Zpacks order with other lightweight gear from the US. Check out our guide on how to shop US ship international to maximize your savings. By bundling a few items together, your international shipping rates per item drop significantly.

Crunching the numbers: GST and import fees

Let's talk about the specific numbers for 2026. The Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L retails for approximately $399 USD. If you were to buy this through a local reseller, you would likely see a price tag north of $850 NZD. By purchasing directly from the US, your total cost (including shipping and the 15% GST) usually hovers around $640 NZD. That is a total saving of $210—enough to buy a high-end titanium pot set or a new pair of trail runners.

When the package enters New Zealand, you will be responsible for import duties and GST. Since late 2019, the NZ government has required GST collection on low-value goods, but the process is streamlined through your international shipping provider. You can find a detailed breakdown of how these fees are calculated in our FAQ section.

Success tips for your first Zpacks order

To ensure a smooth experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Check the Frame Size: Zpacks offers different torso and hip belt sizes. Measure yourself twice before using the proxy shopping service to ensure you get the right fit.
• Verify Shipping Fees: Always double-check the latest shipping fees before finalizing your shipment to ensure no surprises.
• Insurance is Worth It: For a high-value item like a $400 backpack, always opt for the shipping insurance offered during the checkout process at comGateway.

Getting your hands on the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L 2026 Evergreen Edition doesn't have to be a headache. By bypassing the local markups and utilizing a smart forwarding strategy, you can hit the trails with the best gear in the world without the "New Zealand Tax." If you have more questions about the process, the comGateway help center is available 24/7 to assist with your logistics needs.