With Father's Day rapidly approaching, I have no doubt that sales of socks, scorched almonds, aftershave and mid-tier beer have skyrocketed - but for the procrastinators among us who are now panickedly Googling the nearest Rebel Sport, hold your horses.
If you have yet to organise a present for your padre (yes, guilty), you're in luck. Presenting the ultimate last-minute Father's Day gift guide, featuring a variety of gift ideas at all price points to suit every budget.
So if you're lucky enough to have a decent dad or father figure in your life, let's celebrate them and all their quirks; from velcro wallets to ridiculously loud sneezes to falling asleep on the sofa like clockwork.
Here's a list of gifts that could just be the go this Father's Day.
Two Dudes Skincare (products starting from RRP$20, kitsets starting from RRP$55)
If your dad is still relying on three-in-one shower products or washes his face with soap, it's probably time to coax him into the 21st century by introducing Two Dudes into his shower. No, not like that.
The male bathroom brand is the brainchild of Mike McRae and Tomas Tappin, a duo encouraging more men to start looking after their skin - properly. Their aim is to get Kiwi blokes spending a few more minutes in the bathroom each day, using good-quality and affordable products that are simple and effective - and make them smell really, really good. Formulated with nourishing ingredients, the products are designed to target key issues among men like thinning hair, oily strands and body odour.
If it's the bodily hygiene that needs a bit of work, perhaps the Hair and Body Trio could be a good bet. The kit includes a zesty body wash, strengthening shampoo and regenerating conditioner. Each product is aesthetically packaged, smells good and does what it says on the tin. I'm sure your mum will thank you for it if nothing else.
Alternatively, Two Dudes' Deluxe Kit combines all the skincare products your pa could need to kickstart his journey to a glowing complexion; and don't worry, they've made it easy. Two steps, two minutes, twice per day - that's all it takes. The kit comes with a daily face wash, day cream, night cream and weekly face scrub - even the lowest-maintenance of men have no excuse.
Whittaker's chocolate (RRP$5.50)
Look, times are tough and not everyone has the cash to splash on extravagant gifts for Father's Day - but if there's one thing I know to be true, almost no one will turn up their nose at a block of choc. Even better, buying Whittaker's means supporting local during these troubled times - so you're basically a humanitarian.
If your pa is plant-based, Whittaker's new Oat Milk variety is a great bet; made with lightly toasted oats and premium Ghanaian cocoa, the end result is a wonderfully moreish chocolate with no added dairy.
If you're looking for a recommendation, I can't stress enough how deliciously decadent the caramelised white chocolate 'Blondie' is. The chocolate has been authentically caramelised to create a naturally toasted, buttery finish, without the need for colour or flavour additives.
Alternatively, Whittaker's also recently released its te reo Māori packaging in recognition of the upcoming Māori Language Week (te wiki o te reo Māori), featuring a special edition rebrand for its popular Creamy Milk. The Miraka Kirīmi packaging is available for a limited time only and could make a tasty treat that also celebrates beautiful te reo.
Of course, some dads are diehard Cadbury devotees and if that's the case, the House of C also offers a range of delicious and affordable treats - Cadbury Dairy Milk Boysenberry Ripple, inspired by Tip Top, is a real winner.
Jeuneora Beauty Sleep Adaptogenic Super Powder (RRP$77)
I can personally attest to the powers of this deliciously decadent super powder. I gave this hot chocolate to my hardworking and sleep-deprived father in the hopes it would help, even a little, with his chronic insomnia. While it's obviously not going to be as effective as sleeping pills, I hoped a natural product could still offer some respite without the dangers associated with prescription medication. Does it work? Well, he relies on it on his non-pill days, so I guess that says something.
Formulated by the team behind the local supplement and skincare brand, Beauty Sleep harnesses the power of adaptogenic mushrooms and pistachio extract to support deep sleep, relaxation, immune function and a balanced mood. Combined with organic, certified Fairtrade cocoa, the result is a rich and indulgent beverage to enjoy before bed that sets you up for dreamy shut-eye. Simply consume the creamy cup of cocoa 30 minutes before hitting the hay and let those mushrooms work their magic; it certainly seems to cast a sleep spell.
If your dad struggles to get to dreamland, this super powder could be just the ticket.
Black Pineapple's Limited Edition Cocktail Kits (from RRP$64)
Honestly, ditch the heartfelt hug, sack off the socks and give dad what he really wants this Father's Day - whiskey. Black Pineapple offers a selection of curated kits at a range of price points that are sure to tickle him pink - with alcohol flush, of course. Perhaps the Pear and Walnut Old Fashioned Kit might be a hit; a fruity, nutty twist on the classic cocktail with single malt Speyside whiskey, garnished beautifully with freeze-dried local Manuka honey. Or maybe the Blood Orange and Cacao Negroni Kit might take his fancy; a rich, slightly bitter riff on the classic Negroni, designed to delight sophisticated sippers. Each of the kits can either be purchased separately, or 'bundled' for a super special gift that is sure to delight.
Alternatively, Black Pineapple is also offering a Virtual Cocktail Masterclass, an experience that allows you and dad to learn how to create some of the world's greatest cocktails. After the fresh ingredients and bar kit are delivered to your door, Black Pineapple's expert bartenders will share insider tips and tricks of the trade. The best bonding can often be over booze, so I don't doubt this experience will bring you two closer together this Father's Day.
Lone Star Kits and Condiments (starting from RRP$12.90)
For many Kiwi blokes, there's nothing quite like firing up the coals for a classic Kiwi barbecue. If your dad enjoys getting creative in the kitchen or at the grill, Lone Star's delicious range of condiments and kits could spark the fire in his belly.
Perhaps the pantry needs some saucing up? You can now bring his favourite hearty flavours home with Lone Star's Condiment Range. Whether he’s manning the barbie, spicing up a simple salad or adding a tasty twist to his Sunday roast, dad is set to impress with the range of sauces, spices and seasoning oils for every occasion. Or maybe the Lone Star Rib Kit Gift Back might hit the spot; the kit comes with everything he needs to serve up restaurant-quality ribs from the comfort of his own kitchen. Valued at over $100, the kit is available for $69 via the Lone Star website - and includes a sneaky dine-in Lone Star ribs voucher worth $32.
Streaming subscription (from RRP$6.70 a month)
While I struggle to think of anyone who doesn't have at least a Netflix subscription in their arsenal, there are so many other fantastic options available that offer a broader range of content. While Neon is an obvious choice (it's New Zealand owned and has Love Island), Disney Plus also makes a great bet for dads who enjoy their animated classics (my dad is 6'5", the strong, silent type and dislikes most people, but even he won't turn down a Disney film fest). Its 'Star' brand also includes a lot of action movie classics, including the likes of Commando, Predator and Conan the Barbarian.
Alternatively, if your old man revels in the scary and supernatural, Shudder offers series and specials sure to keep him glued to the couch and out of trouble. Home to a seriously good selection of horror, thriller and supernatural flicks, he'll certainly get a thrill from this thoughtful gift - plus, plans start from an affordable $6.67 a month.
Coffee machines (starting from RRP$139)
If your old man is a coffee connoisseur or budding at-home barista, why not give him the gift of caffeine this Father's Day with a new machine that makes a perfect cup of joe, every time. While I am personally partial to the Nespresso Vertuo Next and Nespresso's wide selection of capsules (the new Ispirazione Italiana range is incredible), Nescafe also offer a range of coffee machines at a more affordable price point. For example, you can pick up the Nescafe Dolce Gusto Genio S from The Warehouse for a cool $139. The automatic, ultra-compact machine has been designed with simplicity and functionality in mind, allowing pa to craft a strong cup of coffee like a pro - in his own kitchen.
Alternatively, I will always sing the praises of the Vertuo Next. The Nespresso creation brews an extensive range of styles, strengths and cup sizes at the touch of a button, all from a single capsule. The slim-fit and contemporary design also looks sleek and stylish in the kitchen, so mum won't have a fit about cluttering the counter with another appliance. For the full experience, consider accompanying the machine with a couple of capsules based on your pa's preferences. For the Vertuo, I recommend the Caramel Cookie and Vanilla Custard Pie.
