Rotorua’s charm goes beyond the bubbling geysers and scenic landscapes—it’s also tucked away within the city’s op shops. From small, charming boutiques to bustling stores, each second-hand shop offers a glimpse into the lives and histories of the locals.
You can stumble upon clothes that have seen a lot and items that were once someone’s favorite. Each thing in these shops has a history worth exploring. So, come along and join me in wandering through these places, and let’s discover the stories behind all these cool finds.
Rotorua’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 Rotorua:
- Rotorua Hospice Shop – rated 4.4 out of 5
- SPCA Op Shop Rotorua – rated 3.9 out of 5
- Save Mart Thrift Store – rated 3.8 out of 5
- St Barnabas Op Shop – rated 4.0 out of 5
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore – rated 3.7 out of 5
- St Luke’s Opportunity Shop – rated 3.7 out of 5
- St Vincent De Paul Centre – rated 4.3 out of 5
- The Treasure Box – rated 4.1 out of 5
- The Salvation Army Family Store – rated 4.0 out of 5
- M&S Trading Co. – rated 4.2 out of 5
- Red Cross Shop Urban Ore – rated 3.9 out of 5
- Vinnies Thrift Shop – rated 3.6 out of 5
- The Hub Secondhand Shop – rated 3.8 out of 5
1. Rotorua Hospice Shop
| Best Known For | Clothing and Accessories, Gifts, Household Items, Furniture, Books, Plants and Toys |
| Telephone | +6473494231 |
| fundraising@rotoruahospice.co.nz | |
| Address | 1134 Eruera Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand |
The Rotorua Hospice Shop on 1134 Eruera Street in Rotorua, New Zealand, is more than just an op shop — it’s a friendly place where locals donate and shop to support a great cause.
You’ll find all sorts of treasures here, from clothes to household items and books, each with its own story. What makes this shop special to us is that the money raised goes directly to Rotorua Hospice, which offers care and support to people with terminal illnesses and their families.
So, when you shop here, you’re not just finding cool stuff, you’re also helping your community. Isn’t it a simple way to make a big difference and spread kindness?
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
- 9:30 am – 2:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“What a well-organized store… you’d never guess it’s an op shop in Rotorua!! I had a great time wandering around this hospice op shop today. It was simple to walk around and inspect each thing. However, it was unfortunate that employees did not greet anyone when they entered and instead conversed with one another.”
“I purchased a Cambridge label suit made of the best Merino wool cloth for my son. What an incredible steal at $10! There’s nothing wrong with it. To top it all off, the proceeds benefit a deserving organisation. The staff is extremely helpful and welcoming. I returned the next day and bought a tie; the lady stated $2, so I gave her $5 and told her to keep the change. It’s for charity, and the hospice does an excellent job.”
2. SPCA Op Shop Rotorua
| Best Known For | Kitchenware, Linen, Toys, Furniture, Pet Supplies, Women, Men and Kids Clothing, Jewellery, Homeware |
| rotorua.opshop@spca.nz | |
| Address | 19 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua 3015, New Zealand |
For those of you seeking Rotorua’s top op shops, the SPCA Op Shop at 19 Fairy Springs Road is another standout. This thrift store offers a fantastic range of second-hand treasures and is known for its quality items at great prices.
Whether you’re after clothes, household goods, books, or unique finds, this shop has it all neatly organized. Another thing that we liked about them is that all purchases support the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). It’s a must-visit spot among Rotorua’s best op shops, thanks to its central location and the chance to discover fantastic bargains while helping animals in need.
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
- 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“Be not fooled by the store’s front! The store is much bigger than it looks. This thrift store has some really nice items for an ideal purpose. Therefore, don’t forget to drop by and find your treasure and trinkets.”
“When I stopped by this Rotorua thrift store today to drop off a few items, I learned that Lyn, the primary employee of the shop was going to be leaving in a few days. The devoted followers and clients of this amazing woman will truly miss her since she has contributed so much to this op shop. Lyn has been working away in the business like a small beaver, quietly, ever since it opened in Rotorua. Her commitment to the SPCA has been extraordinary. I sincerely appreciate Lyn’s tireless efforts.”
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3. Save Mart Thrift Store
| Best Known For | Street Fashion, Top Quality Shoes, Accessories, Books and Bric-a-brac, Kids Toys, Smart and Casual Clothing, Designer Fashion |
| Website | https://www.savemart.co.nz/ |
| Telephone | +6473478071 |
| savemartoffice@gmail.com | |
| Address | 3010/2 Gibson Street, Fenton Park, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand |
SaveMart is yet another secondhand store in Rotorua you may try. With 28 stores across New Zealand, SaveMart is known for its lower prices on designer fashions, streetwear, and household items.
Whether you’re looking for a unique outfit for your next night out or some gently used homewares, SaveMart will surely have something for you. The Rotorua store is open five days a week, so you can always find time to pop in and browse their ever-changing selection of goodies.
Hours
- Monday
- Closed
- 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
“Clean, cheerful, and well-stocked with gently used clothing. A few bucks more than other comparable establishments, but the quality reflects this. The only issue is that my wife “just pops in for a little while,” which isn’t truly a small while. They are undergoing renovations at the end of 2018/beginning of 2019, so they are here to stay. Local customers love it, and it’s a treasure trove for visitors looking to view a variety of clothing.”
“This is an op shop/thrift store in Rotorua with a nice selection of clothing in all sizes. Shoes, knick-knacks, and handbags are also available. The staff is helpful and hospitable. This is a huge, uncluttered facility that offers a great shopping experience.”
4. St Barnabas Op Shop
| Best Known For | Secondhand Clothing, Books |
| Telephone | +64223103707 |
| Address | 262 A Ngongotaha Road, Ngongotahā, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand |
St Barnabas Op Shop is a treasure trove of gently used clothing, books, toys, and household goods in Rotorua. They offer great bargains on quality second-hand items, making them a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. Be it a unique outfit, a good book to curl up with, or a fun toy for the kids, St Barnabas is sure to have something for you.
In addition to their great selection, St Barnabas is also known for their friendly staff and commitment to the community. They recently held a fundraiser for Rotorua Plunket, showing their dedication to supporting those in need. So next time you’re in Rotorua, be sure to check out St Barnabas Op Shop – you won’t be disappointed.
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
- 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Saturday
- 9:30 am – 12:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“As a local, I enjoy visiting our local shops, and it’s great that we have an op shop with low prices. I have to say, Rotorua’s best op shop.”
“I got heaps of jars for my jam. Thank you ladies!”
5. Habitat for Humanity ReStore
| Best Known For | Used Furniture, Household Appliances, Clothing, Books, Building & Industrial Supplies |
| Telephone | +6473439273 |
| rotorua@habitat.org.nz | |
| Address | 50 Edmund Road, Pukehangi, Rotorua 3015, New Zealand |
Habitat for Humanity New Zealand, a non-profit that builds homes for needy people, runs the Habitat ReStore Rotorua, which is an amazing find for bargain seekers and DIY lovers. Here, you’ll find gently used furniture, appliances, and building supplies at rock-bottom prices.
Pop in and browse their ever-changing selection, knowing that your purchases support a worthy cause. You can even volunteer your time to help keep the store running smoothly.
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 – 2:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“Well-organized thrift shop… signage directing customers to different locations appears to be a little disorganised, but the things are extremely nice. The store seems to be on the pricey side, but it has a noble cause and lovely merchandise.”
“I prefer their selection of used gear to that of other thrift stores I’ve visited. Very kind and helpful staff.”
6. St Luke’s Opportunity Shop
| Best Known For | Secondhand Clothes, Furniture, Toys, Books |
| Telephone | +6473490251 |
| Address | 1223-1229 Amohia Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand |
St Luke’s Opportunity Shop in Rotorua is also worth checking out for your needs. It sells economical items such as clothing and homewares while also supporting local charities with each purchase. This inviting business combines amazing deals with the opportunity to give back to the community, making it a standout destination in Rotorua.
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
- 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“Even before I enter this store, I know I’m going to have a good time looking for something I’ll like! The clothing displayed on the mannequins is gorgeous, colourful, and stylish. The ladies who work there are extremely helpful, kind, and friendly. I tried on a couple of pieces and solicited their honest feedback, which I greatly appreciated because I am a plus size. I found a couple of items that I wear frequently and am truly thankful for that hidden gem of an organisation.”
“Some excellent second-hand outfits. Prices are on the expensive side. They would sell more if they reduced their prices to appeal to the target market, who does not have a lot of money. Everything is, after all, donated, and these pretty ladies are all volunteers.”
7. St Vincent De Paul Centre
| Best Known For | Used Furniture, Household Items, Crockery, Clothing, Books, Footwear |
| Telephone | +6473454399 |
| national@svdp.org.nz | |
| Address | 510 Te Ngae Road, Ōwhata, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand |
With friendly staff eager to assist and a welcoming atmosphere, shopping at the St Vincent De Paul Centre becomes a fulfilling experience, where every purchase contributes to a greater cause.
This place is more than just your average thrift store. It’s a community hub with a heart of gold. And the best part? It’s chock-full of amazing finds at super-affordable prices.
So, if you’re up for an awesome shopping experience that’s easy on the wallet and big on community spirit, make sure to drop by the St Vincent De Paul Centre. It’s definitely one of Rotorua’s finest op shops, and you won’t leave empty-handed—or without a smile on your face.
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’m addicted to op shops since they’re full of treasures, therefore I enjoy going to locations that sell a variety of unique items. You must be prepared to have a successful hunt, yet it is always surprising what you may discover. The experience never gets old for me.”
“My favourite shopping spot! They’re the cheapest secondhand store I’ve ever seen. They sell high-quality clothing and shoes. Linen, dinner sets, lounge suites, board games, and puzzles are also available. Unless you’re buying a lot of goods, there’s usually nothing over $15. I go in there once a week, sometimes more. So, if you’re in Rotorua (Te Ngae Shopping Centre), it’s well worth a look.”
8. The Treasure Box
| Best Known For | Secondhand Shopping |
| Telephone | +6473490852 |
| treasurebox@wwr.co.nz | |
| Address | 1281 Hinemoa Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand |
The Treasure Box has also made it to our list of the best second-hand shops in Rotorua. If you’re in search of hidden treasures and unforgettable discoveries, you can pay these people a visit. Another thing is that they’ve got everything from vintage clothes to timeless furniture, all carefully chosen for quality. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff make shopping here a delight.
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
- Closed
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“First time there, polite staff, and a good assortment of things.”
9. The Salvation Army Family Store
| Best Known For | Quality Secondhand Furniture, Household Goods, Clothing & Footwear, Books |
| Telephone | +6473468113 |
| Address | 1238 Pukuatua Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand |
The Rotorua Salvation Army Family Store is a leading resource for finding gently used furniture, beds, clothing, and other home items at low prices. They also provide free donation pick-up, making it simple to clean up your home while simultaneously supporting a good cause.
The thrift store is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. They are closed on Sundays and public holidays. Therefore, if you’re searching for a bargain or want to donate some unwanted stuff, the Rotorua Salvation Army Family Store is well worth a visit.
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 – 1:00 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“Really good large store with fantastic prices and extremely friendly and supportive people. I’m looking forward to revisiting it soon.”
10. M&S Trading Co.
| Best Known For | Linen, Curtains, Clothing, Tools, Indoor and Outdoor Furniture, Books |
| Telephone | +6473481651 |
| marksarah@xtra.co.nz | |
| Address | 1222 Pukuatua Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand |
Next, we’ve got M&S Trading Co. for you. This is a secondhand furniture and homewares store on 1222 Pukuatua Street, Rotorua. They specialise in buying and selling furniture and homewares from deceased estates, persons who are relocating or downsizing, and those who are cleaning out their homes.
Looking for an honest, easy, and hassle-free buying or selling experience? This is it. Additionally, they’re meticulous about the environments from which they buy their merchandise, and everything is thoroughly scrutinised before it reaches the shop floor. They also provide local delivery for a small fee.
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
- 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“This is the best secondhand store; they have a big assortment of good things. I found a shelving unit I’d given up hope of ever finding at an acceptable cost. The owner and his wife are both really helpful. I’ll stop by here every time I visit Rotorua. Thank you very much.”
“A truly fantastic store where the longer you spend inside, the more treasures you’ll discover. The customer service is also outstanding.”
11. Red Cross Shop Urban Ore
| Best Known For | Clothing, Accessories, Footwear, Curtains, Books, Toys, Kitchenware, Homeware, Manchester, Furniture, Tools, Electronic Appliances |
| Telephone | +6473478646 |
| Address | 24 Te Ngae Road, Victoria, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand |
On Te Ngae Road in Victoria, Rotorua, you’ll find the Red Cross Shop Urban Ore. It’s a top spot among Rotorua’s op shops. Inside, you’ll discover a cool mix of stuff like clothes, books, and household items, all neatly picked out for you.
What’s neat about this shop is that it’s not just about shopping. When you buy stuff here, you’re also helping out the Red Cross do good things for people in need. So, it’s like shopping with a purpose.
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
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Reviews
“Big op shop in Rotorua with loads of books if you’re a bookworm. I also saw some lovely tiny trinkets and treasures. It’s worth a look, and who knows what you might find!”
“An example of what a charity op store should be. Congratulations, Red Cross. You have a pleasant and helpful staff. I like how there is no fancy shop layout – ideal for folks who enjoy rummaging around. The prices are very affordable, if not excellent! I found a few items for me and the husband. Thank you once more; I plan to come back sometime soon.”
12. Vinnies Thrift Shop
| Best Known For | Clothing and Accessories, Household Items, Furniture, Books, Plants and Toys |
| Telephone | +6473477376 |
| Address | 213 Old Taupo Road, Hillcrest, Rotorua 3015, New Zealand |
Situated in a bustling part of Rotorua on Old Taupo Road, Vinnies is easy to find and convenient for everyone. The staff is incredibly friendly and always ready to assist. Vinnies Thrift Shop is more than just a store; it’s a place to find amazing deals, save money, and have a positive impact on the community. That distinguishes it from the other op shops in Rotorua.
Hours
- Monday
- 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
- Tuesday
- 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
- Wednesday
- 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
- Thursday
- 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
- Friday
- 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
- Saturday
- Closed
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“A well-stocked secondhand store to meet any demand. If you are looking for certain things, the friendly volunteer team will gladly assist you.”
13. The Hub Secondhand Shop
| Best Known For | Clothing, Shoes, Handbags, Homewares |
| Telephone | +642041575057 |
| Address | 1123 Rangiuru Street, Rotorua 3010, 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
- Closed
- Sunday
- Closed
Reviews
“I discovered these adorable outfits for my toddler. Often, op shops only carry charity-worthy garments, but I was able to find some in excellent shape for my son.”
“Excellent assortment of high-quality apparel, books, and homewares at costs lower than other Rotorua op shops these days. The person who runs it is exceedingly welcoming and the shop is well-organized; it’s certainly worth checking out.”
How Do Rotorua Op Shops Help Our Communities?
Op shops in Rotorua are vital contributors to the community, playing a significant role in supporting various facets of local life. Here’s how these establishments actively help and benefit the communities in Rotorua:
- Recycling and Sustainability – Rotorua’s op shops encourage sustainability by prolonging the life of used goods. These stores help reduce waste by providing donated clothing, books, furniture, and other items a second chance through acceptance. Furthermore, by lowering the carbon footprint involved with the production of new goods, this technique is in line with eco-friendly ideas.
- Supporting Social Connections – In addition to their obvious advantages, these thrift stores act as gathering places for people from all walks of life. These areas encourage interpersonal relationships by providing a gathering spot where Rotorua locals may interact, exchange tales, and uplift the community spirit.
- Collaborations and Outreach – Like many other areas in the globe, Rotorua has opportunity shops that provide more than just fantastic bargains. They frequently work together with other neighbourhood businesses or organisations, fortifying their influence and fostering stronger relationships with the community. They might collaborate to provide items or assist particular community programmes with shelters, schools, or other philanthropic endeavours.
FAQ on Rotorua Thrift Stores
Rotorua Hospice Shop, SPCA Op Shop, Save Mart, St Barnabas Op Shop, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, St Luke’s Opportunity Shop, St Vincent De Paul Centre, The Treasure Box, The Salvation Army Family Store, M&S Trading Co., Red Cross Shop Urban Ore, Vinnies, and The Hub Secondhand Shop are some of the best second-hand shops in Rotorua near you.
Funds raised by Rotorua Op Shops are typically utilized to support various local initiatives, including community programs such as family support services, youth development, and elderly care. Additionally, these funds often contribute to charitable causes like disaster relief, healthcare services, education support, and environmental conservation. Some money might be allocated to social services such as meals for the people, counseling, or addiction rehabilitation.
Op Shops may periodically offer sales or discounts to clear inventory or promote certain items, but these can differ between stores. To get the most accurate and current information about discounts or sales at Op Shops in Rotorua, we’d recommend directly contacting the shops you’re interested in visiting. You could give them a call, check their websites or social media pages if available, or even visit them in person to inquire about any ongoing or upcoming promotions.
Returns or exchanges from thrift stores, including Op Shops, often depend on the store’s policies. Generally, due to the nature of secondhand goods and the charitable aspect of these stores, many thrift stores have strict no-return policies.
Op shops in Rotorua typically have policies about what they cannot accept for hygienic, legal, or safety concerns. Hazardous products, damaged goods, and some gadgets are frequently refused items.
Conclusion
So there you have it—the lesser-known side of Rotorua, discovered through its op shops. These places aren’t just for shopping; they’re like time capsules full of good old stuff.
As we leave these thrift shops, let’s carry the spirit of our finds, the tales we’ve heard, and the satisfaction of supporting local causes. Until next time, happy hunting in Rotorua’s op shop wonderland…
