TL;DR: New Zealanders can commission a bespoke engagement ring from us entirely by video consultation and message. The time difference is large but manageable, delivery is insured and tracked with FedEx, and the customer pays import duty and tax, which we explain in writing before you order. Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks. Pieces start from £600.
The time difference
New Zealand is many hours ahead of the UK, so live calls are best arranged for your morning, which is our evening, or the reverse. Between calls, we work by message, so you do not have to be awake at odd hours. Daylight saving changes the gap through the year, so we confirm the actual times in writing when we book. Our guide to booking a video consultation across time zones explains how.
How it works
- Send us pictures or ideas by message.
- We talk through stones and settings by video, and explain the trade offs.
- We send sketches and a CAD render, and you can ask for changes.
- You approve the design in writing. See how written approval works.
- We make the ring and send it with insured, tracked FedEx delivery.
Duty and tax
The customer pays import duty and tax. Rules differ by country, and they change. Check with New Zealand Customs or your carrier, and we explain what to expect in writing. Our guide to ten questions international customers ask is a good starting point, and our guide to New Zealand GST on a ring bought from the UK goes into more detail.
Ring size
Getting the size right is the main practical issue at a distance. Our guide to sizing a finger for a bespoke ring from abroad explains how to measure, and we are happy to check your measurement by video. If you are unsure, tell us, and we explain the options before anything is made.
Pricing in pounds
Prices are set in pounds, so the amount in your own currency changes with exchange rates. Allow a margin when you budget, and ask us how payment works. We explain payment options in writing before you order. See paying for a UK bespoke ring in New Zealand dollars.
Summer, beaches and the outdoors
Many New Zealanders spend a lot of time outdoors, at the beach, on the water or on the trail. A ring should suit that. A low, secure setting is more practical than a tall one, and sunscreen and salt water leave films that dull a stone. Our guides to beach holiday ring care and hand cream, sunscreen and ring film offer simple habits.
Stones
We describe each stone plainly, whether natural or lab grown, and we explain the written terms that apply to your ring before you order. Ask us any question about aftercare for customers in New Zealand.
Insuring the ring at home
Delivery is insured while the parcel is in transit. Once the ring is in your hands, speak to a New Zealand insurer about cover, and keep the invoice and any report together. See insuring a ring bought from the UK in New Zealand.
Proposal timing
If you plan to propose on a date, tell us early. Delivery times to New Zealand can vary, and customs can add time. Our guide to how long before proposing to order explains how to count back. For summer ideas, see a summer Christmas proposal in New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions
Can I really do this from New Zealand?
Yes. Everything happens by video and message.
Who pays duty and tax?
The customer.
How long does it take?
Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, plus delivery.
Should I insure it locally?
Yes, once it arrives, speak to a New Zealand insurer.
Is delivery insured?
Yes, insured and tracked with FedEx.