The best Christmas gifts for the hard to buy for

We all have someone in our lives who is virtually impossible to buy for.

Maybe they say they don’t need anything this year, or they have closets so full you really think they can make it
Cast for an episode of Hoarders.

Our “Hard to Buy” list is perfect for that tricky person, and even that person who shows up unannounced – it’s happened to all of us at least once.

This list is packed with treasures, from cookbooks to cocktails and even a feature of our favorite Black Fern.

Packed lunch from Slowlife

One of the best gifts that is so difficult to buy is a basket full of goodies they may not have tried. Imagine craft beer, dressings, fancy oils and dips all packed in a bag that will serve them for years.

$95 from Slowlife

Two raw sisters – simply chic

If they’re difficult to buy, they might be a picky eater too. Featuring simple, delicious dishes from Kiwi sisters Margo and Rosa Flanagan, this book will satisfy even the most difficult of tastes.

$39 from The Warehouse

iPhone 14 and iPhone 14+

Everyone knows someone with a smashed phone who is just a swipe away from a visit to the White Cross. Give them the ultimate upgrade with the latest iPhone 14, which has all the bells and whistles and a groundbreaking camera. Make sure you throw in a protective case too.

Starting at $1,599 from Apple

Ecoya Sandalwood and Amber Hand Soap

If you know someone who travels a lot, then this is the gift for them. It’s hard to find comfort in a busy life, but the ritual of washing your hands with a nice soap can change the pace of any day.

$29.95 from Ecoya

Unwrapped Oxfam Cards

Unwrapped Oxfam cards help fund their work in the Pacific and beyond. From giving away clean water to farming tools to chickens, these are the gifts that really can do it all.

Prices vary at Oxfam

Native eye color by numbers

Do you find it hard to relax and spend hours on the phone every night when you know you should relax? This gift is perfect for making sure you rest your mind while you do a little painting by numbers.

$37.90 from Native Eye

Lululemon Everywhere bum bag

There’s a reason this bag went viral on TikTok — it’s pretty much everything. From festivals to the mall and beyond. It has just enough space for your essentials while still offering hands-free fun.

$55 from Lululemon

White Christmas candle in the greenhouse

While it’s hard to pick a favourite, Glasshouse’s White Christmas scent is universally loved and the packaging is perfectly boujee.

$64.95 from Glasshouse Fragrances

Oculus Quest 2 virtual reality set

Ever seen grandpa smash virtual blocks out of thin air? Make Christmas Day hilarious with this gamer’s dream gift for the whole family.

$749 from The Market

better beer

Nobody is more popular on Christmas Day than the person who shows up with a refreshing six pack. be that person

$17.99 from New World

Disney+ subscription

My favorite streaming platform of the year goes to Disney+ and that’s why it’s on my list as one of the best subscription plans to give away. From New Girl to Criminal Minds and all the latest blockbusters in between, girls have plenty to choose from.

$129.99 annually from Disney+

Acme & Co Roman cup and saucer – Kawakawa

Nobody crafts perfect coffee vessels quite like Acme & Co, and this kawakawa colored cup and saucer is as beautiful as it is practical.

$25 from market

Simon Lewis Ward’s jumbo jet plane

Kiwiana is perfectly integrated with Simon Lewis Ward’s creations and these jet plane glass wall hangings are the crème de la crème.

$260 from Simon Lewis Wards

Frank Green drinking bottle

When it comes to emotional support water bottles – thanks to TikTok – this one is the best of the best. Keeps your water cool all day and keeps you super stylish.

$64.99 from Frank Green

memorial plant

If you lost a loved one this year, why not go to your local garden center and find a tree or flower to plant in their honor this Christmas? The loving remembrance rose is a beautiful reminder of this precious person.

$39.45 from The Plant Store

Ruby Tui – Straight ahead

She’s a national treasure and this Christmas she’s sure to be under the Christmas tree of almost as many Kiwis as she has fans.

$30.99 from Mighty Ape

Lighthouse Mt Difficulty Barrel Aged Gin

This limited rate arrived just in time for Christmas. After resting in Pinot Noir casks, its beautiful golden color shines through.

$140 for two from The Foley Wine Club

Ecostore family favourites

There really is nothing more tedious than trying to get the house ready for Christmas visitors. Make it easy for your humble host with this family favorite pack from Ecostore.

$63.99 from Ecostore

Bailey’s Strawberries and Cream

I mean, do I really need to say more?

$33.99 from The Market

coupon

From Bunnings to Superette. From Repco to Mecca. From the countdown to the spa. You simply can’t go wrong with a voucher.