Shop the Hutt Valley’s boutiques

Part shop, part gallery, Stansborough Mill creates beautiful woollen textiles. The shop, a few blocks north of the Petone retail strip, sells heritage woven blankets, scarves, wraps, and cloaks. The family-owned company makes everything using wool from a unique breed of grey sheep, reared on the Stansborough farm in the Wairarapa region. Wool is woven into delicate textiles using six historic worsted looms. You can see the looms operating through a window in the shop. Book a behind-the-scenes tour, browse for an exquisite textile, or pick up a replica Elven cloak from ‘The Lord of the Rings’ film trilogy.

Schrödinger’s Books is an independent bookstore in Petone. Since opening in 2019, it has gained a reputation for its wide range of books and excellent service. Its speciality is Japanese Manga comics, a niche but popular subject.

Schrödinger’s has a large children’s section with books for young people of all ages. They also sell a wide selection of books about Aotearoa, with many in te reo Māori. If you don’t know where to start, the staff are always happy to help you find your next best read.

At Avison’s, you’ll find a thoughtful collection of modern homewares, clothing, gifts, and accessories.

This bright and spacious store puts the spotlight on local and New Zealand-made products that are made to last. You can pick up anything from colourful glassware and luxurious bed linen to quality leather bags and thoughtful gifts.

Family-owned and operated for close to 20 years, the store keeps up with changing trends. If you need help choosing, ask the helpful owners. They have a deep knowledge of all their products.

Rawson Brothers Jewellery creates stunning bespoke pieces using the best raw materials and traditional techniques.

The small boutique offers delicate silver necklaces and engagement bands, and the finest diamond-encrusted wedding rings. Each item is handmade by certified goldsmith and diamond grader, David Rawson.

If you have a design in mind for a new ring, necklace or bracelet, David can help you bring it to life. Or, if you’re lost for ideas, he can get you started. David is also skilled at repairs. If you have an old watch or precious heritage item that needs attention, he can help to revive it.

For more than 150 years, people have been wearing hats from Hills Hats. Its Petone store stocks a vast array of styles from pork pies, paper boy caps, and boaters to fedoras, panamas, and cheesecutters. Browse the collection from purpose-built wooden shelves and check out what suits you in one of the many mirrors. 

Hills Hats are made by skilled local hands — from blocking and shaping through to detailed finishing touches. You’ll find fine felts, 100% English Wool Tweed, Australian Cotton Oilskin, and more. All materials are selected for their character and ability to age beautifully.

With a focus on sustainability, the boutique stocks mostly ethically-made brands. It’s a great place to find timeless and high-quality wardrobe staples. Not afraid of a bit of colour, Wanda Harland always has bright, fun pieces from across the world. It sells local labels like twenty-seven names and Kowtow alongside international brands.

Wanda Harland’s Petone boutique is in the middle of the action in humming Jackson Street. There are always friendly staff to guide you through the goodies on offer. As well as womenswear, Wanda Harland sells a range of accessories, kids’ clothes, gifts, and homeware.