What she really desires: 8 unforgettable gifts for her 

Best for: Those celebrating a significant milestone

A custom-made photo book is a reminder of precious memories and doubles as a stylish coffee table accent.  

If the photo book is a gift for your girlfriend or partner, it’s a wonderful way to immortalise your love story through pictures from date nights and relationship milestones.

A bespoke photo book is also the perfect keepsake for marking significant events in her life, such as the birth of a child, an engagement, or graduation.

Shop here:

• From $130 at MILK Books
• From $44.99 at VistaPrint
• From $65 at Etsy

Best for: People who prefer experiences over material possessions     

Does she have an inclination for adventure or value quality time with loved ones? If so, she’ll appreciate a spontaneous weekend getaway or an experience like wine tasting or hot air ballooning. After all, there’s nothing better than the excitement of being whisked away to an unknown destination — although if she loves planning, you may want to let her in on the surprise.   

Book here:

• Adventure experiences, from $95 at Red Balloon
• Food and wine experiences, from $35 at Red Balloon
• Spa and wellness experiences, from $14 at Red Balloon
• Accommodation at Red Balloon, Booking.com and Airbnb

Best for: Self-care enthusiasts who love to be pampered

If she loves a pampering skincare routine or she’s always experimenting with makeup, a beauty gift set will allow her to try new products and indulge in some well-deserved ‘me-time’.     

If she rarely treats herself to perfume, gifting her fragrance is another way to make her feel special.

Shop here:

• The Evening Ritual Trio, $65 at Emma Lewisham
• The Essentials, $150 at Emma Lewisham
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Sultry Palette Vault Mini Set, $120 at Sephora
• Jasmine & Magnolia Fragrance Gift Bag Set, $39.95 at Circa
• Pleasures In The Moment Fragrance Set, $230 at Estée Lauder

Best for: People who take pride in decorating their living spaces

Give her the gift of wall art — whether a photograph of her favourite New Zealand destination or a print reflecting her interior style. You’ll show her you understand her deeply; and each time she admires her art, she’ll think of you.   

Shop here:

• Landscape and nature art, from $34 at Shop Your Home and Garden
• Photography art, from $33 at Shop Your Home and Garden
• Abstract art, from $41 at Shop Your Home and Garden
• Floral & botanical art, from $24 at Shop Your Home and Garden

Best for: Those who cherish sentimental keepsakes

Jewellery is a timeless gift, and when personalised, it’s even more special.

Whether you purchase a necklace adorned with her birthstone or initial charms, or a bracelet engraved with a significant date or meaningful words, you’re gifting her an everlasting symbol of your bond. 

Shop here:

• Letter charms and chains, from $98 at Mejuri
• Birthstone charms, from $128 at Mejuri
• Zodiac and initial jewellery, from $26 at Lovisa

Best for: Gourmet foodies and dessert enthusiasts

If she’s a foodie, partial to sweet treats, or appreciates the finer things in life, a gift box filled with premium chocolates or gourmet delicacies is the way to her heart.

You could even gift her a case of her favourite wine varietal, particularly if she’s hard to please or you’re looking to impress.

Shop here:

• Tea gift packs, from $15 at T2
• Gift baskets, from $74.95 at Paddock to Pantry
• Cookie gift boxes, from $29.95 at Hello and Cookie
• Wine cases, from $168 at Laithwaites

Best for: Homebodies who value quiet time

Does she love spending a night at home curled up on the couch, getting lost in a book, or relaxing in the bath? For those who value solitude, an affordable luxury like a scented candle or room fragrance is an excellent gift idea. To enrich her relaxation, we recommend selecting a soothing lavender, warming vanilla or invigorating citrus scent.    

Shop here:

• From $14 at Shop Your Home and Garden
• From $20 at Sephora
• From $19.95 at Circa
• From $25.95 at Glasshouse Fragrances

Best for: The woman who has everything 

If she appreciates romantic gestures or public displays of affection, she’ll adore a surprise flower bouquet delivery. Send her a bunch of her favourite blooms or an arrangement featuring her favourite colours to brighten her day.   

Shop here:

• Fresh flowers and flower gift boxes, from $45 at The Wild Rose
• Flower gift boxes, from $55 at The Gift Shop