Shopping

Australia

Sydney
Shopping is a popular activity in Sydney. The city is filled with a large number of shopping malls, department stores, specialty stores and glittering markets. On par with the greatest commercial cities in the world, Sydney has it all.

The main shopping malls and department stores are located close to each other and many of them are connected by tunnels and overhead walkways. The shops in the city remain open from 9 in the morning to 5 in the evening. Only on Thursdays do the shops remain open until 9pm.

One of the most famous shopping malls of the city is Queen Victoria Building. This huge shopping center was opened in 1898 and renovated in 1980. An example of Victorian architecture, this shopping zone houses nearly 190 designer brand stores and excellent restaurants.

Strand Arcade is another famous department store of the city. Opened in 1892, this mall was destroyed by fire in 1976. Recently restored, it houses boutiques, beauty salons, jewelry shops and restaurants today.

New Zealand

Christchurch
The main shopping areas in Christchurch are High Street, the Saxon Square Shopping Centre, and Bargates, where stores range from designer street-fashions to continental chocolates.

Queenstown
Town center is the most comprehensive place to go shopping in Queenstown. The picturesque area boasts many attractive retail shops and outlets. It’s the ideal destination to find international labels alongside the best local New Zealand brands. The shops and outlets in the downtown area remain open year-round, usually until 8pm or 9pm. Tourists will find shops that offer top quality knitwear, carvings in bone and jade, and products made out of possum fur or sheepskin. The famous wine of New Zealand is also available in this market. If you get hungry after a long day of shopping, most eateries in the area are open until midnight.

Auckland
Auckland is credited with being the most happening shopping destination in the land of the Kiwis. Popular souvenirs include sheepskin products, paua shell items, bone carvings, greenstone, woodcarving and turning, knitwear and leather goods. Wine, books, ceramics and designer clothing are also available in many stores. Some shopping centers even have entertainment shows and music concerts arranged on special occasions.