Christchurch is an amazing place with lots of second-hand stuff on sale. If you like finding cool things that someone else used to own, you’ll love the op shops here.
These shops are often called opportunity shops, and they’re scattered all across the city. From the quaint streets of Addington to the bustling hubs of Riccarton and beyond, Christchurch’s second-hand stores hold an eclectic mix of clothing, furniture, books, footwear and more.
So, in this write-up, we’ve handpicked the top 13 op shops in Christchurch based on careful consideration of variety, quality, affordability, and uniqueness in their offerings. Even more, accessibility, community impact, and the inviting ambience were also pivotal factors in our selection process, ensuring a diverse and engaging array of options for every visitor seeking invaluable items within Christchurch’s op shop scene.
Let’s explore these thrift stores together and see what amazing things we can find in our beloved city.
Christchurch’s Top 13 Op Shops
Here are the thirteen op shops we’ve determined to be the best ones for quality second-hand items in Christchurch:
- City Mission Op Shop – rated 4.5 out of 5
- St John Boutique Community Shop – rated 4.4 out of 5
- The Shirley Op Shop – rated 3.9 out of 5
- Opawa Community Church Op Shop – rated 4.0 out of 5
- SPCA Op Shop Linwood – rated 4.2 out of 5
- Vinnies Thrift Store – rated 4.5 out of 5
- Red Cross Shop Woolston – rated 3.8 out of 5
- Salvation Army Family Store – rated 4.7 out of 5
- St John Shop Sydenham – rated 4.3 out of 5
- Hato Hone St John Retail Store – rated 4.0 out of 5
- Curate Second-hand Shop – rated 3.7 out of 5
- Flourish Op Shop – rated 4.4 out of 5
- Make Me New Op Shop – rated 3.9 out of 5
1. City Mission Op Shop
| Best Known For | Books, Indoor and Outdoor Furniture, Bric-a-brac, Clothing, Linen, and Curtains |
| Website | https://www.citymission.org.nz/op-shops |
| Telephone | +6433650633 |
| opshop@citymission.org.nz | |
| Address | 250 Barbadoes Street, City Centre, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Tuesday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Thursday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Friday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Saturday
- Closed
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“Decent costs and polite volunteers and employees. Mostly $2 clothes, arranged by tone rather than size. There is always extra-large clothing available. Check clothing frequently because it now has marks and other issues that it didn’t have when it originally opened. There are interesting finds available and some unusual second-hand stuff. Not as many toys as previously, but a good assortment of kids’ clothes in this Christchurch Op Shop.”
“I enjoy op shopping and discovered a few treasures in the apparel section at the back of the store. I’d encourage a visit if you’re an op shopper who enjoys rummaging through used stuff. You have to hunt for it, so don’t expect to walk in and exclaim, “Wow!””
2. St John Boutique Community Shop
| Best Known For | Used Books, Toys, Furniture, and Clothes |
| Website | https://www.stjohn.org.nz/shop/retail-stores/christchurch-durham-street/ |
| Telephone | +64279420022 |
| anamika.mcguire@stjohn.org.nz | |
| Address | 180 Durham Street South, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Tuesday
- 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Wednesday
- 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Thursday
- 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Friday
- 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Saturday
- Closed
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“It’s a nice thrift store with really helpful workers. I spent a lot of time there and got a gorgeous wooden necklace at a great price.”
“Best used things in Christchurch, hands down! They’re restocking supplies for fresh things apparently every hour. I love that my money is being donated to my favourite nonprofit.”
Related articles:
- 4 Best Op Shops in Rangiora
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- 6 Best Second-Hand Shops in Invercargill
- 6 Best Thrift Stores in Nelson
3. The Shirley Op Shop
| Best Known For | Clothing, Shoes, Handbags, Homewares |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/theshirleyopshop |
| Telephone | +642040355546 |
| theshirleyopshop@gmail.com | |
| Address | 77A Briggs Road, Shirley, Christchurch 8052, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- Closed
- Wednesday
- 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Thursday
- 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Friday
- 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Saturday
- 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“The place is operated by some great guys, with affordable prices and fantastic chat. On Saturday morning, he even invited me to a free men’s breakfast.”
4. Opawa Community Church Op Shop
| Best Known For | Clothing, Footwear, Accessories, Curtains, Books |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/p/Op-Shop-Opawa-Community-Church-100064716251861/ |
| Telephone | +6433370092 |
| admin.opawacommunity@Methodist.org.nz | |
| Address | 3 Aynsley Terrace, Hillsborough, Christchurch 8022, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Thursday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Friday
- Closed
- Saturday
- Closed
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“Interesting op shop in Christchurch near me. Pricing varies and is haphazard. Has volunteers who are well-prepared and friendly.”
“Good place to get a decent deal, but some items are way overpriced.”
5. SPCA Op Shop Linwood
| Best Known For | Clothing and Accessories, Gifts, Household Items, Furniture, Books, Toys |
| Website | https://www.spca.nz/opshops/linwood-op-shop |
| Telephone | +6436629891 |
| linwood.opshop@spca.nz | |
| Address | 244 Linwood Avenue, Linwood, Christchurch 8062, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Tuesday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“These people are highly organised and have pretty cool clothing. With reasonable prices, this will be my go-to op shop from now on.”
“Some amazing goods. Undiscovered treasure.”
6. Vinnies Thrift Store
| Best Known For | Books, Baskets, Furniture and Furnishings, Clothing, Curtains |
| Website | https://www.svdpchch.co.nz/ |
| Telephone | +6433897484 |
| Address | 265 Stanmore Road, Richmond, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Tuesday
- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Thursday
- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Friday
- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Saturday
- 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“Fantastic community op shop and has lots of variety.”
“A very pleasant retail establishment for the selling of a wide range of donated household products by members of the local community.”
7. Red Cross Shop Woolston
| Best Known For | Accessories, books, Clothing, Curtains, Footwear, Homeware, Kitchenware, Kids Toys, Electrical Appliances, Eyewear |
| Website | https://www.redcross.org.nz/about-us/contact-us/map-of-new-zealand-red-cross-locations/ |
| Telephone | +6433764387 |
| shop.manchesterst@redcross.org.nz | |
| Address | 6/8 Portman Street, Woolston, Christchurch 8023, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Tuesday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Sunday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Reviews
“Great shop, very tidy and good selection of used items on sale.”
“Lovely staff and a well-presented store. I am donating more.”
8. Salvation Army Family Store
| Best Known For | Secondhand Furniture, Household Stuff, Clothes, Books |
| Website | https://www.salvationarmy.org.nz/ |
| Telephone | +6433328277 |
| public.relations@salvationarmy.org.nz socialmedia@salvationarmy.org.nz | |
| Address | 156 Carlyle Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8023, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Tuesday
- 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Wednesday
- 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Thursday
- 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Friday
- 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Saturday
- 9:30 am – 1:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“This store is located in the heart of Christchurch, despite its modest size. In contrast to another similar business in this region, I thought their collections were really small. It is, nevertheless, tidy and seems to have been kept up. While reasonable overall, some things have comparatively high prices.”
“Wonderful small pre-owned or secondhand items, all clean and presentable, with reasonable costs and great quality. Nice nearby parking and wheelchair accessibility.”
9. St John Shop Sydenham
| Best Known For | Furniture, Clothing, Footwear, Accessories, Curtains, Books, Toys, Kitchenware |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064175616544 |
| Telephone | +64272389243 |
| Fiona.McLean@stjohn.org.nz | |
| Address | 300 Colombo Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8023, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Tuesday
- 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday
- 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday
- 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“Lovely volunteers with great music playing in the background. It is more expensive than the ones on Durham or Lincoln Road in Christchurch, but I believe this is due to the simple fact that there is a lot more quality stuff at Sydenham Op Shop. I found some stuff I like, including a $4 book that was only released last year.”
“So far, the best Christchurch secondhand store in my opinion. They sell a wide variety of products, including books, clothing, and kitchen wares, all at very low prices. Also, they are seeking volunteers.”
10. Hato Hone St John Retail Store
| Best Known For | Secondhand Clothes, Furniture, Toys, Books |
| Website | https://www.stjohn.org.nz/shop/retail-stores/christchurch-addington/ |
| Telephone | +6433382560 |
| anamika.mcguire@stjohn.org.nz | |
| Address | 272 Lincoln Road, Addington, Christchurch 8024, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Tuesday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“So far, one of the best Chch Op shops I’ve visited in recent days, I stopped in quickly to see if they had any shoes. I discovered the most fantastic sneakers in excellent condition for really low pricing ($6 each). They have some amazing items. The member of staff was helpful. I will return!”
“One of the nicest secondhand shops in the area. Excellent apparel choices at low prices. The majority of the garments cost $4, with a few exceptions being $6 or $8.”
11. Curate Second-Hand Shop
| Best Known For | Thrift Shopping |
| Website | https://www.thrivecurate.org.nz/ |
| Telephone | +6433650633 |
| curate@citymission.org.nz | |
| Address | 250 Barbadoes Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Tuesday
- 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Thursday
- 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Friday
- 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Saturday
- Closed
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“You must arrange an appointment to view the item for sale. Clothing is arranged by colour rather than size. I didn’t see any plus sizes, but I was told they do exist. The bags and jewellery were stunning. Excellent vintage goods at reasonable prices. They list products if you are unable to visit the store.”
12. Flourish Op Shop
| Best Known For | Used Furniture, Household Stuff, Clothing, Books, Kids Toys |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/flourishopshop/ |
| Telephone | +6433513227 |
| flourishopshop@gmail.com | |
| Address | 445 Colombo Street, Sydenham, Christchurch 8023, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
- Tuesday
- 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
- Thursday
- 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
- Friday
- 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
- Saturday
- 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“Prices are acceptable, especially for clothing and bedding. The staff is helpful and approachable. I appreciate that they have a Koha room where families in need may get clothing, baby goods, and other necessities. Pregnancy is also a good cause.”
“I love going to this op shop in Christchurch since they have so many good things and a great nursery section. Everyone there is also very welcoming.”
13. Make Me New Op Shop
| Best Known For | Second-hand Clothing, Footwear, Household Items, Furniture |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100048065697062 |
| Telephone | +64223722863 |
| makemenew@northgatetrust.co.nz | |
| Address | 95 Sawyers Arms Road, Northcote, Christchurch 8052, New Zealand |
Hours
- Monday
- 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Tuesday
- 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Thursday
- 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Friday
- 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Saturday
- 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“I’ve never gone to a better secondhand store. I happened upon it by chance while I was in the region, and I’m pleased I did. The store was well-organized and stocked with high-quality items in good shape. I came up with a lot of fantastic goods for a very low price. The employees were really nice and helpful. I can’t wait to return once the extension is finished!”
“Amazing, really good quality stock at wonderful costs, everything is clean and sorted by size. Moreover, the owner is kind and inviting. There are several amazing deals on designer and vintage stuff here, and the op shop is not far from the airport if you’re in Christchurch.”
Op Shopping Etiquette and Practices
When you visit op shops in Christchurch near you, it’s important to be nice and follow a few simple rules:
- Be Friendly – Say “hello” to the people working there and be nice to other shoppers.
- Give Good Items – If you’re donating things, make sure they’re clean and not broken. It helps the shop a lot.
- Take Your Time – Finding cool stuff might take a while, so don’t rush. Enjoy looking around!
- Think Before Buying – Only get things you need. It’s about using products, not just collecting them.
- Follow the Rules – Sometimes these Christchurch op shops have special days or ways of doing things. Respect what they say.
FAQ on Christchurch Thrift Stores
City Mission Op Shop, St John Boutique Community Shop, The Shirley Op Shop, Opawa Community Church Op Shop, SPCA Op Shop, Vinnies, Red Cross Shop, Salvation Army Family Store, St John Shop, Hato Hone St John Retail Store, Curate, Flourish Op Shop, and Make Me New are some of the best second-hand shops in Christchurch near you.
Well, the policies regarding damaged or repairable items can vary among Christchurch Op Shops. It’s best to directly contact the specific shop or organization to inquire about their guidelines for donating such items. They might have specific rules or preferences regarding what they can accept.
Yes, seasonal trends may cause fluctuations in donations and sales. Clothing donations, for example, may increase during spring cleaning, and winter clothes may be more popular during colder months.
Op Shops in Christchurch actively engage the community through a range of events, including fundraising auctions, clothing drives for those in need, skill-sharing workshops promoting sustainability through upcycling, and seasonal sales offering discounts or promotions. Collaborations with local artists, volunteer appreciation events, and educational programs further contribute to their vibrant community involvement.
Thrift stores typically don’t accept perishable items or food due to health and safety regulations. Perishable items have a limited shelf life and can spoil quickly, posing health risks to consumers if not handled properly. However, some thrift stores might have partnerships with local food banks or specific programs designed for food donations, but it’s always best to inquire with the store directly about their donation policies before attempting to donate perishable items or food.
Many Op Shops in Chch seek to make all people, including those with disabilities, feel welcome by providing wheelchair access, accessible facilities, and accommodating staff.
Conclusion
Finally, Christchurch’s broad selection of op shops provides an abundant wealth of second-hand goods. From antique apparel to one-of-a-kind trinkets, these 13 boutiques allow you to discover pre-owned items while also supporting sustainable buying methods.
These op shops demonstrate the city’s lively community spirit and commitment to recycling, whether you’re a thrifter, a collector, or simply looking for economical bargains. Remember, the next time you’re on the lookout for unique items or simply want to contribute to reducing waste, consider paying a visit to Christchurch’s op shops.
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