Fast-growing New Zealand wholesaler Moana Road has expanded with its Australian launch at Reed Gift Fairs Melbourne August trade show.
Moana Road decided to cross the ditch because of the similarities between the cultures of each country. It is also a way to keep growing the business after reaching about 500 stockists on its home turf.
“A lot of my products are influenced by my childhood as a young Kiwi just growing up with bare feet and enjoying summers and that sort of thing,” says Paul Ballentyne, director Moana Road. “I don’t think there’s any better place in the world to grow up as a kid than New Zealand and Australia so I think when you produce a product that reflects that, people often quite like their childhood in this country, any reminder is quite a positive thing.”
The Moana Road product range includes retro school bags, laundry bags and beach themed items. Products featuring New Zealand terms such as jandals and chilly bin have been changed to the Australian versions of thongs and esky, respectively. There are plans to make more specific products for New South Wales and Victoria.
Ballentyne says the gift fair launch was successful with many new retailers jumping on board. He hopes to continue expanding into the local market with further local trade show appearances.
