Activities

26 March 2025

Opshops in Ōtautahi Christchurch

Ōtautahi is home to an amazing collection of preloved stores where you are sure to find a few new favourite pieces. 

Racks of clothing

Sustainable fashion stores in Christchurch

With the seasons changing, it's never been a better time to update your wardrobe but that doesn't mean you need to spend all your savings or harm the planet!

City Mission Op Shop

City Mission Op Shop by the Christchurch City Mission is located in the city centre on Barbadoes St. and in Sydenham on Buchan St. The stores receive regular donations so there is always something new to find! From vintage gems to preloved streetwear, Thrive has it all.

Walking distance from Thrive Community Cafe' & Catering you can get both a caffeine fix and fashion hit within a couple of blocks! If you would prefer to shop sustainably after hours, look at Thrive Curate for an excellent handpicked selection of both men’s and womenswear. If you’re lucky you may even spy a designer item or two.


Recycle Boutique

Recycle Boutique has both Central City and Tannery locations. A nationwide consignment store with a focus on quality high street and designer clothing for both men and women. This store is a one stop shop if you’re having a closet clear out and are interested in making some money to ‘re invest’ on some must have pieces.

If you’re visiting the CBD store, try Mugen Sushi for lunch. Here you can pick your own pieces (highly recommend the Takoyaki). If you visit The Tannery store, look no further than the Penny Black Victorian Tearoom. Pop your bags down and rest with a traditional high tea or scrumptious jam and cream scone!

Recycle Boutique
Shopping at the Nifty Markets

The Nifty Markets

The Nifty Markets are an experience you're missing out on if you haven't been! This Ōtautahi market promotes small businesses and sustainability. Usually hosted every few months, these markets have somewhat of a ‘cult’ following. Entry to the market is often by gold coin koha, which is donated to a charity.

The best way to keep up to date with the latest Nifty events is to follow them on Facebook or Instagram @theniftymarkets.

Lyttelton Garage Sale

Lyttelton Garage Sale is more than just a garage sale with every dollar spent going back into Lyttleton community groups. This wonderful wee store runs on clothing donations and is also home to a range of homewares and fabrics. The location also provides beautiful views of the harbour from above.

While you’re over the hill, why not explore the township? Spooky Boogie offers quirky surrounds, nick knacks and excellent coffee. If it is the weekend, check out the Saturday Lyttelton Farmers Market along London Street then grab a plant-based brunch at Shroom Room. If the weather is showing off, Eruption Brewing has a stunning rooftop beer garden with panoramic harbour views.

Lyttelton Garage Sale

Paperbag Princess


Paperbag Princess has new stock arriving daily and is all about circular fashion. Their clothing includes a wide range of both men’s and women’s vintage, designer, and high street labels. The best news is that they are neighbours with Bohemian Bakery which means you can grab a mouthwatering croissant and get a caffeine hit all in one place.

If you are after a more substantial lunch, visit Little High Eatery for everyone in your shopping crew to grab the eats they want and still be able sit together.

Toffs


Toffs - Every Canterbury thrifter knows of the infamous $2 clothing warehouse on Ferry Road. Open 7 days, this store is the ideal for the weekend shopper. Be patient hunting through the racks, we promise it’s worth the wait! If you’d prefer a more instant shoppers high, have a look in the ‘designer’ section (priced above $2) which has a mix of both designer and vintage items. 

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