Skip the big brands: Festive gift ideas from Pacific businesses

Summer is officially underway. This year's calendar has something for everyone - from sports, art, music, faith, and food to families and friends enjoying a fun day out and creating lasting memories.

Christmas chaos usually comes with end-of-year rushes, more guests at the table or that dreaded last-minute email organising a Secret Santa. Rather than reaching for a generic present, families can support Pacific-owned businesses that offer gifts rooted in culture and community.

Last year, 1776 Pacific-owned Auckland businesses with employees generated almost $1.8 billion in sales. This Christmas, shoppers are being encouraged to spread the cheer by directing some of the seasonal splurge their way.

Practical gifts, Pacific style

Why pay $70 for a YETI Rambler when you can grab an ISLAKOKO Voyager insulated tumbler for $39.95? With four colour options and 120ml extra capacity, your hydration levels and your ancestors will thank you.

Dress to impress: From Apia to Auckland

Eveni Pacific near Auckland Airport offers a wide range of clothing, from footwear with Pacific designs to formal and casual wear for all occasions. Established in 1929, the flagship store in Apia started as a waterfront trading post and continues its family legacy today with stores in Auckland, Brisbane, and Honolulu.

For sporty nephews and nieces, pick up a Toa Sāmoa jersey replica, or prepare for winter sports-watching with a Lakapi Sāmoa beanie and scarf.

Festive food without the stress

Several Pacific eateries can provide a show-stopping contribution to your festive table. How about a Koko Sāmoa Cream pie from Sweet & Me, or a catering order featuring Fijian Curry, Mayonis (Cook Islands Potato Salad) or Banana Poke from the iconic Blue Rose Cafe in Auckland’s Sandringham.

For the planners, writers and list-makers

For the avid writer or organiser in your family, Panikeke’s notebooks, featuring siapo and masi-inspired covers, are quickly selling out.

See the Fuafuaga Bilingual Sāmoan daily planner from Tusi Stationery for $39.99 to plan the new year in style, or fully immerse yourself in indigenous environmental markers with the Sāmoan seasonal calendar for $69.

JClass Candles has a limited release of their drink-inspired product. Photo/JClass Candles

Easy wins for Secret Santa

JClass Candles has relaunched its Caramel & Vanilla Iced Latte candle just in time for Christmas, with limited stock from their Point England base in Auckland.

Lakei Mai has a unique selection of hair clips, Marshallese handicrafts, and t-shirts for children and adults. For the patriots, their range of earrings and cufflinks features flags from different Pacific nations.

Gifts that travel well

For loved ones you won’t see on the day, online options can still deliver something special. Loriana’s already does the wrapping for you with their island gift boxes containing fragrances, jewellery, or Pacific-style mugs. Explore their collection of lavalavas, hand-painted tote bags, and even tanoa and ulafala gift sets.

Books that reflect who our children are

Celebrate our diverse children with books that they will enjoy long after the festive season. Samogon Treasures publishes lift-the-flap board books naming colours of the rainbow in Tongan or Sāmoan languages, or count 1-2-3 with Island Pepe and their 'My First Kilisimasi' onesies.

Timeless treasures

Make a statement with eye-catching jewellery from Danika Cooper, featuring Tahitian black pearls. They ship worldwide, with free shipping for orders over $150, but can you really put a price on love?

No budget? No worries

If you don’t want to show up empty-handed, Tusi Stationery has free downloadable colouring pages that will keep the younger kids entertained after the post-Christmas lunch food coma wears off.

Remember, hugs and laughter are the best currency, and if anyone disagrees, remind them that your presence is a gift.