Wee Birdy in New Zealand: The General Store, Christchurch
The General Store in Christchurch was one of the shops that was relocated due to the earthquake last year, and can now be found in the Re:Start village of unique shipping container shops on Cashel Street. It's a cheery design-led gift shop and is one of the best places in Christchurch to pick up some really lovely Kiwi souvenirs. Take the little wooden 'Keko' Kiwi pull-along toy, for instance (see above) and the all-natural Honey Sticks beeswax crayons. Both gorgeous products are made and designed in New Zealand, along with the Owl and the Pussycat art cube by Wellington artist Ellen Giggenbach. Great presents to take home for children!
Along with children's toys and gifts, The General Store also stocks a range of homewares, jewellery, art prints, books and stationery. There is also a good representation of international designers, including art tea-towels by Third Drawer Down, ceramics by Rob Ryan and novelties by Suck UK.
But it's the the retro Kiwiana that caught my eye here, such as the The Longest Drink in Town giraffe milkshake cup; plastic Tiki charms and miniature Wahine and Warrior dolls. Other highlights include the Swedish Klippan throw blankets made with New Zealand wool; Native tui tea-towels by New Zealand textile designer Ingrid Anderson; and appliqued New Zealand-themed cushions made with vintage blankets.
The General Store
Re:Start
Cashel Street
City Mall
Christchurch
Tel. 03 365 9950
Opening hours:
Monday to Friday 10am-5.30pm
Saturday to Sunday 10am-5pm
Wee Birdy travelled to Christchurch courtesy of the good folks at Tourism New Zealand and Air New Zealand. Head to www.newzealand.com for more information about visiting New Zealand.
