The first two weeks of May are guided by three key Ms: on May 1, Justin Timberlake memes (it's gonna be May!); on the first Monday, the Met Gala; and on the second Sunday, Mother's Day.
If you've just looked at the date in horror, yes - Mother's Day is three days away, so it's time to get your ish together.
Luckily, Newshub Lifestyle is here to help; introducing, the ultimate last-minute Mother's Day gift guide. We all know mums (and maternal figures) deserve the world, but unfortunately, not all of us can afford it. As times are tough, we've made sure each gift is under $50 to ensure there's options for tighter bank balances - after all, there's nothing wrong with being bougee on a budget.
Under $20
Only Good Cedarwood & Juniper Body Wash or Sensitive Coconut Milk Body Wash (RRP$11.99)
With certified natural ingredients, locally made formulas and an affordable price point, Only Good's range of hand and body washes could be a great bet this Mother's Day. The products are packaged in sleek, stylish bottles that scream luxury, but are available at your local New World or Pak'nSave. Better yet, the reusable bottles - made with sustainable sugar cane - are also eligible for kerbside recycling. Free from palm oil, parabens and petrochemicals, the body wash currently comes in two formulas - a subtle, unisex cedar scent or nutrient-rich coconut milk with skin-soothing ingredients.
Whittaker's Mango & Coconut Block (RRP$6.29)
Unveiled as a new addition to Whittaker's permanent range last month, the latest flavour is inspired by the TikTok-trending mango sticky rice dessert. Crafted with the Porirua chocolatier's caramelised white chocolate, chewy mango fruit pieces and toasted coconut, this tasty treat has been hailed as a little taste of the tropics - even when the weather is near freezing. We'd recommend pairing this with a bag of local ground coffee or a nice bottle of vino (if she's a Sex and the City fan, Invivo X SJP is a great option). Mum's Sunday night, sorted.
Under $50
Sans[ceuticals] Nourishing Hair Hydratant Ultra+ 150ml (RRP$44)
This month sans[ceuticals] will become the first New Zealand body and haircare brand to debut in Mecca stores across Australasia, and that's a milestone worth celebrating. The local beauty brand is known for its gold-standard active ingredients and facial-grade approach to the body and hair. Due to its multifunctional properties, the popular Nourishing Hair Hydratant could be a fab choice for mum this Mother's Day; she can use it as a conditioner, smoothing serum, curl-defining cream, anti-frizz treatment, or even a masque. Talk about bang for your buck.
LuxeSticks Serum Sticks (RRP$34.99)
The brainchild of Married at First Sight New Zealand alum and social media personality Samuel Levi, LuxeSticks' mess-free, roll-on skincare could make a great gift for time-poor mums. Easy to apply with no faff required, there are three serum sticks to choose from; vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and retinol. The compact sticks feature a balm formula in an innovative roll-on design - simply glide the product over your face and go. For mature skin, retinol is known for its anti-aging properties, helping to promote collagen production and target uneven skin texture. If detoxifying face masks are more her vibe, there are also several clay masks to choose from, so take your pick.
Circa Rose Nectar & Clementine Soy Candle 350g (RRP$49.95)
From Circa's limited-edition seven-piece Mother's Day collection, this beautiful candle makes a stunning gift for any home fragrance fan. Housed in a pretty pink-and-cream glass vessel with abstract brushstrokes, this candle not only smells divine, but makes an aesthetic addition to any room. The delicate scent is inspired by pink roses and peonies, with top notes of green pear, clementine and peony dew; the heart notes are centifolia rose, lily and boysenberry, while the base is musk, incense and amber. Subtle, elegant and sweet.
Sol de Janeiro Lymphatic Massage Tool (RRP$37)
If you're on TikTok, you're probably aware of the worldwide obsession with Sol de Janeiro and its range of deliciously scented bodycare products - but these babies aren't cheap. Alternatively, the massage tool isn't only affordable, but it's here to stay - meaning mum doesn't need to fork out on a replacement in a month's time. If she's a fan of a good massage (who isn't), this tool will give her the gift of a relaxing treatment in the comfort of her own home. It's designed to promote lymphatic drainage, helping to sculpt the body and reduce bloating and fluid retention. Made of FSC-certified beechwood, simply sweep the tool over the skin with the help of an oil. There are plenty of instructional videos online to get her started on her at-home massage journey.
Lorna Jane activewear (prices vary)
If your mum enjoys an active lifestyle, we're sure she'll appreciate a refreshed activewear wardrobe, whether it be a new cap, tank top, Pilates socks or handy accessories - like a crossbody phone strap for when she's on the move. Lorna Jane has a range of basics under the $50 mark (with plenty currently in their winter sale), including a great selection of gym tanks and hats at an affordable price point. Make sure to check out their online outlet for heavily discounted prices.
Jeuneora Beauty Well Super Capsules (RRP$49)
If your mum is a health-and-wellness queen™, supplements could be the way to go. These Super Capsules contain Panmol B-Complex, a complete and highly bio-available form of essential B vitamins, along with zinc and a powerful combination of adaptogenic herbs. These ingredients work together to support your mood, immune function and energy levels during times of stress. Free from binders, fillers and additives, the capsules are plant-based and vegan - plus, Jeuneora is a New Zealand-owned brand, so you're supporting local, too.
The above products have been independently selected by Newshub Lifestyle. In some cases Newshub Lifestyle has been supplied with samples to review.
