Shopping information
Can you bargain or barter here?
Bargaining is not usual in most retail shops. However, when making an expensive purchase, it is acceptable to ask for a discount if you are paying cash. This will usually be about 10% off the asking price, but may be refused or declined at the retailer's discretion.
Where can I buy food?
Supermarkets selling food and other household items are found in the central city, South Dunedin, and several suburbs. The supermarkets operating in Dunedin are:
- Countdown
- Fresh Choice
- New World
- Pak N Save
- Woolworths
There are several stores in the city which stock food from different cultures, such as Asian foodstuffs.
Dunedin also has New Zealand's largest outdoor food market, the Otago Farmers' Market, held to in the northern carpark at the Dunedin Railway Station. It runs from 8am until 1pm every Saturday morning.
What measuring system is used in New Zealand?
New Zealand uses the metric system for all weights and measures.
Metric conversion calculator (opens in a new window)
What shoe sizes and dress sizes are used in New Zealand?
We use the same shoe sizes here as in the United Kingdom.
These tables give relative sizes for other countries.
- Shoe sizes (opens in a new window)
- Dress sizes (opens in a new window)
- Men's clothing (opens in a new window)
What are Dunedin's main retail areas?
Dunedin's main street, George St, contains a wide variety of shops. Other shopping areas include South Dunedin, our satellite centres such as Mosgiel, Port Chalmers, and Waikouaiti, and the large scale shopping areas on State Highway 1 between the central city and South Dunedin.
Where can I buy second-hand goods?
All sorts of goods can be purchased second-hand in Dunedin. There are many second-hand stores. There are also rental agencies which will rent you whiteware and appliances.
Second-hand goods can also be bought online, at websites such as Trademe (opens in a new window) or at private sales called garage or boot sales which are advertised in the local newspaper.
Where can I find cars for sale?
Although there are car dealers dotted all over Dunedin, there are two main areas for car shopping. They are:
- Andersons Bay Rd
- Kaikorai Valley Rd
What are my rights when making purchases?
- The Consumer Guarantees Act sets out guarantees that goods and services must meet when sold by a retailer or service person.
- The Act gives you rights when you buy faulty goods and ensures you have rights when work you have paid for (e.g. around your home) is not done properly.
- If you have a problem, you should first contact the retailer or service person, either by visiting them or by writing to them.
- If the issue can not be resolved by yourselves, and the amount of money in question is less than $7500 (or $12,000 if both parties agree), you are entitled to take your conflict to the Disputes Tribunal, by lodging a claim form at the Dunedin District Court, Stuart St.
- If the dispute involves a larger amount of money, you are recommended to involve your lawyer.
The Minstry of Economic Development has more information on your rights as a consumer.
What's the policy in Dunedin on tipping?
Tipping is not compulsory in New Zealand but is always a choice when service has been exceptional. Many cafes have a tip jar on the counter.Top of this page
Where is alcohol available?
All forms of alcohol are available in Dunedin in specialist liquor outlets, and can be sold to people 18 years and older. Wine and beer are available from supermarkets.
Last reviewed: 18 Jul 2008 12:42pm
Phone us on 477 4000
