By Gabriel Fisher -
The way we approach gift-giving is consistently evolving, reflecting changes in our communities, economic conditions and social norms.
The Good Registry team has been looking at the gift-giving trends we can expect to see this year - in the context of high living costs, the climate crisis intensifying, and a growing focus on sustainability and social equity.
Here are five gifting trends we expect to see in 2025 - and how you could stay on trend this year with your gift choices.
1. Gifting Second-Hand
With increasing awareness of environmental impacts and resource scarcity, more people are embracing the idea of gifting preloved items. Vintage clothing, second hand books and technology, or someone’s preloved vinyls can make great gifts. By choosing pre-owned, you can not only save resources but also give things a new life, making them part of a more circular economy. As proven time and time again, one person's trash can be another person's treasure.
2. Upcycling
Upcycled gifts take sustainability a step further by transforming old into new (and often beautiful). Upcycling is perfect for the creative givers, as it allows them to craft one-of-a-kind presents, which can be thoughtful and meaningful for both the giver and receiver. Think furniture, jewellery and upcycled fashion.
3. Giving Experiences Rather Than Stuff
Memorable experiences, over material possessions, are increasingly becoming more popular as gifts, due concerns about consumerism and over-consumption of the planet's resources. Experiences are great gifts for people who are choosing to live a more sustainable or minimalist lifestyle and don't want 'more stuff'. Think online courses, concert tickets, or activities in nature.
4. Gift Cards
As the cost of living continues to be a growing concern, gift cards are gaining traction. Instead of guessing what someone might like, gift cards allow recipients to choose exactly what they want or need - from essentials like groceries to vouchers for their favourite stores. Giving vouchers helps to ensure that gifts are both useful and appreciated. And, for the people who love to help others, The Good Registry’s charity gift cards connect recipients with 65 fantastic Kiwi causes that they could donate to. Find out more about our gift cards here.
5. Charity Gifts to Address Social Inequity
As social equity becomes a growing issue in Aotearoa New Zealand, charity gifts are on the rise. People are opting to donate on behalf of their loved ones, supporting causes that address poverty, education, healthcare, and more. Not only does this make a positive impact on society but it also aligns with the values of those who prioritise making a difference. The Good Registry’s electronic gift cards are a fantastic way to gift thoughtfully and support a wide range of charities. Check out the full list of our charities here.
The Gifting Revolution
At The Good Registry, we like to think we are ahead of the curve with our approach to gift-giving. We were founded with the idea of reducing consumerism and waste, while helping good causes and enhancing social equity.
This year, consider joining the gifting revolution and rethinking the way you give. With sustainability, practicality, and social impact becoming increasingly relevant, consider how your gifts are making a positive impact for your gift recipient and the causes they care about.
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