Kiwi Spending Habits

As 2023 has come and gone, it is a chance to look back at our spending habits over the past 12 months. You may or may not be aware that Kiwis love a quirky purchase – and as far as 2023 is concerned, they definitely do. According to recently released data from Afterpay, unusual items that boost health and wellness, and spice up life at home proved to be popular picks in people’s shopping carts. 

The leading Buy Now Pay Later provider has reviewed the nation’s spending habits and deep-dived into Kiwis’ top purchases, revealing a plethora of weird, wonderful and truly unexpected items from a range of retailers that accept Afterpay.  Think massage tables, adult toys, new-age beauty treatments and miracle vitamin packs.

Top 10 quirkiest products of 2023:

  1. Massage table | Trade Me: Don’t have your own massage table at home? Not only is it much more relaxing and comfortable, but this was also a top-tier purchase for 54 percent of Kiwi millennial shoppers in 2023 looking to add a bit of zen time to their daily routines. 

  2. Meso needling (face) | The Cosmetic Clinic: Designed to assist with overall skin rejuvenation, this non-surgical skin treatment is not only suitable for all skin types but a popular 2023 purchase among 46 percent of millennials and 35 percent of Gen Z. 

  3. Get started pack | Nutrient Rescue: Making self-care a priority, this fruit and vegetable ‘shot starter’ kit proved to be a top pick for 42 percent of millennial shoppers and 40 percent of Gen X looking to turn over a new, healthier leaf. 

  4. Sony PlayStation 5 Console | Mighty Ape: After years of shortages and instant sell-outs, it’s no surprise to see this hot and in-demand item on the list.  The latest Sony console made it to 50 percent of Gen Z’s shopping carts and 37 percent of millennials’. A great choice for those looking for new, up-to-the-minute gaming possibilities and lightening-fast loading pace. 

  5. Crocs Mega Crush Clog | Platypus NZ: 2023 was ultimately the year of the Crocs comeback, and the classic Croc has had a seriously eye-catching makeover. A quirky shoe for some, the Mega Crush Clog was purchased by 45 percent of millennials who couldn’t resist adding this item to their cart and revisiting their childhood. Not far behind them, 33 percent of Gen Z shoppers were also interested in jumping on the trend. Think enhanced rubber tread and additional detailing, for all of your elevated Crocs needs.

  6. LEGO Icons: Botanical Series – Bonsai Tree | Mighty Ape:  A bonsai tree you can keep all year round, the LEGO building experience turned out to be a popular buy for 52 percent of Gen Z looking to spruce up their home decor, DIY style. 

  7. Cricut Maker 3 Machine Multicoloured | Spotlight: Used for crafting hobbies or designing Eras tour posters. Either way, this surprising and clever smart cutting machine made it to 47percent of millennials shopping carts in 2023.

  8. ApneaRX – Revolutionary Sleep Apnea and Snoring Solution | APAC Health and Medical NZ: Perhaps one of the most quirky items on the 2023 list, 43percent of Gen X and 41 percent of millennials were after a better night’s sleep – or a less disruptive partner –  with this medical device designed to alleviate snoring and make it easier to breathe when the sun goes down. 

  9. 5 Senses Naughty and Nice Advent Calendar | Adult Toy Megastore: A naughty and nice purchase, the luxurious emerald and champagne advent calendar made it to 41 percent millennials and 48 percent of Gen Z looking to embark on a playful and sensory adventure.

  10. The Healthy Ageing Pack | About Health: Living a little healthier wasn’t unique to millennials and Gen Zs either, with 63 percent of boomers looking to freshen up their wellness habits via the advanced healthy aging duo pack from About Health.