Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is a treasure trove of unique and exciting shopping experiences. One of the city’s hidden gems is its vibrant op shop scene, where you can find pre-loved clothing, accessories, and other items at bargain prices. Whether you’re a vintage lover, a bargain hunter, or simply looking to add some character to your wardrobe, Wellington’s op shops have something for everyone.
But with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best op shops in Wellington to help you navigate this eclectic shopping landscape. From quirky second-hand boutiques to large-scale charity shops, we’ve got you covered. So, get ready to explore the city’s hidden gems and discover the treasures waiting for you in Wellington’s op shops.
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The Best Op Shops In Wellington
1.City Mission Store
Location: 19 Gordon Place, Newtown
Phone: (04) 245 0900
Time: Monday – Friday: 9am – 4:30pm
The City Mission Store in Wellington is a popular op shop known for its clean and organized environment, friendly staff, and affordable prices. They have a high turnover of stock, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. The store also has comfortable changing rooms, making it easy to try on clothes. Overall, it’s a great option for anyone looking for a proper op shop experience in Wellington.
2. Mary Potter Hospice Shop
Location: 48 – 52 Mein Street, Newtown
Phone: 04 801 0006
The Mary Potter Hospice Shop in Wellington is a great op shop to find useful household items and unique books. They have a big room filled with homewares that gets updated frequently. The staff is friendly and the prices are very reasonable. They offer a good range of clothing, and the quality is good too. Shopping here is not only great for finding bargains but also supports a well-deserved charity.
3. Recycle Boutique
Location: 143 Vivian Street, Wellington
Phone: 04 916 2020
Time: Mon to Fri – 10am to 5pm
Recycle Boutique is a fantastic second-hand clothing store in Wellington, offering a wide range of high-quality clothing and accessories at affordable prices. The store is beautifully decorated, and the staff are friendly and helpful. It’s a perfect place to spend a day browsing and finding something unique to make a fashion statement. With its great variety and charming service, Recycle Boutique is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates quality clothing without breaking the bank.
4. Aunty Dana’s Op Shop
Location: 130 Riddiford street, Newtown, Wellington
Phone: 027 829 8199
Time: Weekdays 10am – 6pm Sat 10am – 6pm Sun 12noon – 4pm
Aunty Dana’s Op Shop is a hidden gem, offering high-quality goods at unbeatable prices. The shop is run by lovely staff who make every visit a fun and memorable experience. With free parking, ATM cash machines nearby, and a proper changing room, Aunty Dana’s is a true old-school op shop. What’s more, it supports a rainbow community organization, making every purchase or donation meaningful. If you’re looking for a friendly, genuine, and refreshing shopping experience, Aunty Dana’s Op Shop is the place to be.
5. Ziggurat
Location: 144 Cuba Street, Wellington
Phone: +64-4-385 1077
Ziggurat op shop offers an excellent selection of quality vintage clothing and jewelry at affordable prices. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, providing a no-pressure shopping experience. Overall, Ziggurat op shop is a great place to find unique, high-quality vintage pieces.
6. Paperbag Princess
Location: 209 Cuba Street, Wellington
Phone: +6443813737
Time: Mon to Sun – 10am to 5pm
Paperbag Princess may seem like a store only for women, but they actually have a solid range of men’s clothing as well. With new items added weekly, you can have hours of fun collaborating outfits in this store. Whether you’re looking to complement your outfit or create a masterpiece from scratch, Paperbag Princess always delivers with their friendly staff and quality products at good prices. The clothing and shoes are of great quality, and the men’s selection is impressive. Visit Paperbag Princess and discover their unique range of clothing today.
7. Thrift
Location: 162 Cuba Street, Wellington
Phone: +6448016282
Time: Mon to Sun – 10am to 6pm
Thrift is a vibrant and welcoming op shop that caters to all genders and ages. With a wide range of alternative clothing options, you’ll be sure to find something unique and eye-catching. The friendly staff are always on hand to offer fashion advice and assistance. Expect to find vintage pieces from both well-known and obscure brands, with patterns being a particular favourite. Spend an afternoon exploring the colourful racks and uncovering hidden gems at Thrift.
8. Hunters and Collectors
Location: 134 Cuba Street, Wellington
Phone: +64 4 384 8948
Time: 10.30AM-6pm Monday-Friday 10.30-5.30pm Saturday 11-4.30pm Sunday
Hunters and Collectors is a vintage store located on Cuba Street. With a creative window display and two levels of retro goodness, this store is a must-visit for anyone looking for eclectic vintage finds. Since 1985, Hunters and Collectors has been curating a range of clothing, shoes, accessories, furniture, art, and other design pieces sourced from around the world. From punk and skate style to modern pieces, this store has something for everyone.
9. Relics Antiques
Location: 270 Taranaki Street, Wellington
Phone: +6421666589
Time: Mon to Sun – 11am to 5pm
Relics Antiques is a charming and eclectic store that offers an authentic selection of antique items. The store’s owner is knowledgeable and personable, providing customers with a pleasant shopping experience. Although some may find the prices steep, the quality of the items and the rarity of finding such treasures make it worth it. Relics Antiques is a must-visit for anyone who loves to rummage through unique and beautiful items.
10. Emporium
Location: 103A Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington
Phone: +6443814544
Time: Mon to Sun – 11am to 6pm
Emporium is a great store that offers a colorful collection of vintage clothing, carefully hand-picked from the Oversaese. With an authentic street style and regular restocking, you can easily find a unique piece without worrying about others copying your outfit. From denim to nylon, Emporium has got you covered with quality vintage under one roof.
FAQ’s
Why is an op shop called an op shop?
An op shop is short for “opportunity shop,” which refers to a store that sells second-hand or used goods, often to raise funds for a charity or nonprofit organization. The term “opportunity” reflects the idea that these items provide an opportunity for people to purchase affordable items while also supporting a good cause. The term originated in Australia and New Zealand, but has since spread to other countries such as the UK and Canada.
What are op shops called in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, op shops are commonly referred to as “op shops” or “opportunity shops,” which is the same term used in Australia. However, they are also sometimes referred to as “thrift stores” or “secondhand shops.” The term “op shop” is widely used and recognized in New Zealand, and these stores are often run by charities or community organizations to raise funds for their respective causes.