Summer Fridays Strawberry Soft Serve is simply cheaper to buy from the US than from a New Zealand boutique

The Hype Behind Strawberry Soft Serve

As of May 2026, the beauty world has a new obsession: the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm in Strawberry Soft Serve. This limited-edition shade has become a staple in every 'Get Ready With Me' video across social media. The 'cool baby pink' hue offers a nostalgic yet sophisticated tint that works perfectly for the 2026 aesthetic. While Summer Fridays has always been a status symbol, this specific release is particularly elusive, often selling out within minutes of a restock on major US platforms.

For those keeping an eye on us trends, this balm is currently the most requested beauty item from North America. Its silky formula and subtle fragrance make it a standout product, but the difficulty of finding it locally in the South Pacific has only fueled the frenzy.

The New Zealand Price Gap

The reality of shopping for cult-favorite beauty products in Auckland or Wellington is often a lesson in extreme markups. While the Strawberry Soft Serve balm retails for approximately $24 USD in the United States, New Zealanders often find themselves facing prices upwards of $65 NZD when purchasing through local resellers or specialty importers. This price disparity is a significant hurdle for beauty enthusiasts who want the latest releases without the local premium.

By using a freight forwarder, you can bypass these local markups entirely. Accessing a tax-free us address allows you to pay the original US retail price, which is almost always more wallet-friendly, even after accounting for the journey across the Pacific.

Shipping Estimates and Logistics

When planning your purchase, it is helpful to understand the physical requirements of your package. Small beauty items are generally easy to move, but they still require proper documentation for international shipping.

To get a better idea of the total landed cost, you can use a shipping calculator to see how much it will cost to get your balm from the warehouse to your doorstep. You may also want to compare various international shipping rates to choose between faster delivery or more economical options.

Buying from US Stores via comGateway

Shopping at US-based retailers like Sephora or the official Summer Fridays website can sometimes be tricky if they do not accept non-US credit cards. In these instances, the BuyForMe service acts as a helpful assistant, handling the purchase on your behalf so you don't miss out on limited-edition drops.

Once your item arrives at your US address, you can consolidate it with other purchases to save on package forwarding costs. This is a common strategy for Kiwis who want to ship to New Zealand while maximizing their budget. Whether you prefer DHL international shipping for speed or FedEx international shipping for reliability, you have the flexibility to choose your preferred carrier.

Import Tax and GST in New Zealand

Before you place your order, remember that New Zealand has specific rules regarding import tax and GST. Since 2019, GST of 15% is generally applied to low-value goods (under $1,000 NZD) imported into the country. Most large US retailers now collect this at the point of sale, but it is always wise to check the FAQ section for the latest updates on customs procedures.

Keeping these factors in mind ensures that your Strawberry Soft Serve balm arrives without any unexpected financial surprises. Buying directly from the US remains the most effective way to secure this 2026 viral sensation while avoiding the steep markups found in local New Zealand stores.