When New Zealand-made isn’t more expensive
Home » Blog » Sarah Marquet » When New Zealand-made isn’t more expensiveSarah's made-in-New Zealand challenge scores her some sweet slippers.
I finally decided it was about time to get myself some slippers for winter instead of just complaining about being cold all the time. I had been looking in Dowsons and other shoe shop with some kind of vague hope that I would uncover some New Zealand made slippers. After a few unsuccessful attempts, my mother told me about Golden Fleece, a factory down in Sydenham that makes slippers and other sheepskin products.
I went to check it out, thinking I would be paying more than I can really afford, but for $15 I got a pair of scuffs—exactly what I was after. They were seconds (they usually cost $20) but I still haven’t found anything wrong with them, not even a wonky seam. They had a lot of other styles too, and all reasonably priced. It felt really good buying direct from the factory, knowing that they haven’t been shipped halfway around the world.
I went back to other shoe shops around the city, but couldn’t find any sheepskin slippers for a similar kind of price (I found some synthetic ones for $20). It seems New Zealand-made isn’t always the expensive option.
I also got my hands on some Feel at Home soaps and lip balm. They’re hand-made with natural and organic ingredients, mainly sourced from New Zealand companies. They also sell bath and massage products and soap mats made from recycled wood.
Since making the switch to New Zealand-made skincare products, my skin (and fingernails!) has been a lot better. It must be because of the natural ingredients. I was a bit sceptical before—I didn’t think they would make any difference—but I’ve been using them for long enough now that I have to agree; they are better.
