Most of the biggest Kiwi retailers don’t move seriously into pre-Christmas mode until the last Guy Fawkes sparkler has spluttered out the door on November 5. By then, however, the Trade Me Christmas Party is in full swing!

Why the early start?

This chart from the US National Retail Federation suggests that not all of us wait till Christmas Eve before splurging on our nearest and dearest:

Yep: collectively, almost four out of ten Christmas shoppers start their buying before November; and then another four out of ten turn into shopaholics in November. By the time the last two weeks of December come around, just 4% of us (men, you know who you are) have yet to get our act together [and yes, we know the chart shows American data, but the last Kiwi data we saw showed a similar pattern].

So what should you do?

If you’re buying, here are some of the hot items you should be considering:

Toyworld NZ’s Top Ten Toys for Christmas 2011

(according to the NZ Herald)

1 Beyblade Battle Set Reviving the classic game Battling Tops. Ages 8+

2 Cookie Pie Pup A dog toy for girls which responds to commands and blinks and barks. Ages 4+

3 Dinosaur Train Boris Tyrannosaurus from the Dinosaur Train TV show. Ages 3+

4 Elmo Rock Elmo sings with his microphone and plays tambourine and drums. Ages 18 months+

5 Glitter Lava Desk Set for making sparkly colourful stickers. Ages 4+

6 Lego ages vary

7 Nerf Vortex Nitron Blaster Shoots discs long-range and features pulsing targeting lights. Ages 8+

8 Transformers ages 5+

9 Sylvanian Families ages 4+

10 3 Unit Gym Set Outdoor set for youngsters

For those with slightly bigger budgets:

Click here to view the embedded video.

On A Budget

If your pennies don’t spread quite that far, check out yet another graph from the National Retail Federation which tells what people are hoping for this Christmas:

Not exciting, perhaps, but at least you’ll be giving them something they really want …

If You’re Selling

If you sell stuff on Trade Me and want to cash in on the Christmas rush, then you should:

1. Take a look at what’s hot on Trade Me — check out the 15 most popular searches of the previous month as revealed in the Trade Me newsletter.
2. See what’s actually selling right now on the site, reviewing the Sell Through Rates by Category to see what percentages of auction listings actually sell
3. Head to Google Insights for Search to see what Kiwis have been searching for over the last seven days (as we write this, rugby tends to be a common search term for some reason)

If you want more Christmas inspiration, click here for our Christmas stories from previous years!

No related posts.

Hold on a minute, though — before you run off and start baking those gorgeous Christmas cakes (caution: may contain nuts, if you’re following the recipe), pause a moment and let’s have a look at what prospective buyers have been searching for in recent times. We just might find inspiration which will help guide our choices …

First let’s sneak a peek at the very hottest choices on Trade Me — the Top 15 Most Popular Searches on Trade Me are carried every month in the Trade Me newsletter, so that’s a good place to start.

As you’d probably expect, the iPhone (#1 in October), iPad (#5) and iPod (#9) are amongst the most sought-after goodies on Trade Me (as enthusiastic but cash-strapped consumers look for bargains). Unless you’re an authorised Apple orchard, you probably don’t have access to those products at a price that makes the igadgets worth reselling. However if you are able to source useful accessories (eg cases & covers) at a hot price, the continuing popularity of the core items suggests that there’s still good demand for add-ons.

Another technology on the Most Wanted list: GPS (#8), the ideal gift for the male of the species. Finally, a technological compensation for the genetic aversion to stopping and asking for directions.

If your prospective customers’ tastes run more to fashion than firmware, perennial favourites that keep making the bestseller list on Trade Me include Karen Walker, Country Road, Trelise Cooper and Roxy. Demand is clearly there; your challenge is to arrange supply at a profitable price point.

If we dig beyond the published Top 15 list and take a look at the fifty most searched-for items on Trade Me (this time for September 2010), here’s what we note:

• If you’re flogging furniture, chairs (#18) are more popular than coffee tables (#24), any other tables (#27), drawers (#28), mirrors (#35), or lounge suites (#49)
• At this time of year, shoes (#17) are more sought after than boots (#32)
• You don’t need to be a fashionista to realise that black (#30) remains far more popular than white (#47)
• Today’s kids may have been wired since birth, but parents keep trying to cut the cable: Lego (#16) is wanted rather more than the most popular console, PS3 (#31)
• Most wanted musical instrument? The guitar (#44)
• The iPad may be the most preferred portable computing device, but laptops (#22) are still an affordable alternative
• Weddings (#38) are still in style, but there’s a bit more demand for chainsaws (#36)

If what we ‘ve covered so far doesn’t do it for you, let’s take a look beyond Trade Me, at what consumers are searching for through Google. We can’t drill down very far for New Zealand searches, but we can for Australia so let’s take a look at what was hot across the ditch in the last seven days:

• In books, Harry Potter remains incandescent, newly joined by the Chronicles of Narnia (ahead of the launch of the newest movie in the series, Voyage of the Dawn Treader)
• In health and beauty, Laser Hair Removal is tops, followed by GHD Hair Straighteners and StrawberryNet
• Gran Turismo 5 is hottest in games
• Christmas songs are on the up and up
• Fishing is the most popular recreation search, followed by Bikes, Boats and Horses
• Most popular science topic: coolmaths4kids
• Fastest rising travel search: Cambodia

To figure out more popular items worth selling, head to Google Insights for Search and do your own crunching.

PS Merry Christmas!

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Bah humbug — many savvy shoppers were snapping up Christmas stocking goodies a couple of months ago. But for those of us who aren’t quite so prepared, here are some helpful hints on shopping for the festive season on Trade Me.

Something Old, Something New

Around half of the products for sale on Trade Me are new (and the proportion of new stuff grows at Christmas-time). So don’t worry that you’re only choosing from used goods. Of course, pre-loved pressies can be great, too — for example, a Star Wars card autographed by the voice of Darth Vader, the legendary James Earl Jones, just might be the thing for the geek in your lfe.

Or perhaps your nearest and dearest is a royalist? Check out such goodies as this Chuck and Di cup:

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING ON TRADE ME
PART A: IF YOU ALREADY KNOW EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT TO BUY

Sometimes we know exactly what sort of gift we want to buy. Gives us a warm, fuzzy feeling inside. So buying that gift is more a matter of knowing exactly where to find it and how much to pay.

1. Search
Start your quest by searching for the item (let’s be incredibly creative and describe it as a ‘widget’) on Trade Me. Make a note of who’s selling widgets and at what price they’ve listed each widget.

2. Browse
Browse in the widget category for misspellings, products without pictures and other items that won’t show up in searches (for more details, read our earlier article on how to find bargains on Trade Me).

3. Verify
Check out the feedback of the widget sellers. Look for any recent negatives. Cross out any sellers with poor reputations, highlight those with better than sterling customer service. Add the good ones to your “favourite sellers” list to be emailed details of their new listings.

4. History Check
Go to the Trade Me Search Box and click on “More Options”. Use the advanced search facility (with “Expired Items” selected) to see at what prices those widgets previously sold (or didn’t sell). That will give you an idea of the actual value of the widget in the Trade Me marketplace. (NB If your widget is rare or obscure, there may be no recent auction listings).

5. Real World
Don’t forget the non-virtual world. Check out widget pricing in actual stores or in printed catalogues. And see what the Recommended Retail Pricing is, perhaps by phoning up widget stockists.

Get ready to buy
Having down all your homework, you’ll now know what sort of price to pay for your widget. Identify target auctions, hurry up and wait.

Hold your breath – and your bid
As you move into Bidding Mode, may we respectfully point you in the direction of Chapter Six of Trade Me Success Secrets. It reveals the most important secret of buying successfully on Trade Me, and deals with the topic in far more detail than we can address effectively here.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING ON TRADE ME
B. IF YOU HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA WHAT TO BUY

What types of gifts would your family/friends/significant others like to receive this holiday season? This is what American consumers told researchers last season:

• 72% of 18-24 year olds wanted Clothing or Accessories, as did 58% of 25-34s
• 40% of men (just 26% of women) wanted consumer electronics or compter-related accessories
• 55% of 25-34s wanted books, CDs, DVDs, videos or video games
• 26% of men wanted sporting goods or leisure items
• 26% of women wanted home decor or home-related furnishings
• 56% of 35-44s wanted gift cards or gift certificates, as did 53% of 45-54s and 49% of those 65 plus
• And 26% of women but just 7% of men wanted personal care or beauty items

This data from BIGresearch’s Consumer Intention & Actions study

Specifics
Want more specific advice? Google “most wanted gifts 2010″″ and you’ll find a variety of lists of the Most Wanted, for men, women, kids, teens, you name it.

And finally, if you’re buying for kids, check out top toy lists such as this one:

The Toyworld Annual Top 20 Hot Toys for Christmas 2010 (listed below in alphabetical order):

1/ BABY born; – A life like doll that can drink, wet her nappy, eat and use her potty, cry and squeak and be bathed Suitable for ages 3+

2/ BAKUGAN – This is a collectable battle game with characters that pop open when they’re rolled onto a game card! Suitable for ages 5+

3/BARBIE The timeless and ever popular Barbie range features the latest for 2010 including Fashion Fairy Tale Barbie who flashes when you press her dancing queen belt. Suitable for ages 3+

4/ BEYBLADES – Let it Rip with Beyblade Metal Fusion – the ultimate battling top. Collect, customize and compete like never before with a new, metal gear system! Challenge friends around the global with Beyblade virtual battles on line – www.beybladebattles.com Suitable for ages 8+

5/ BIKES – Always a favourite under the Xmas tree. New colours and styles to choose from. Suitable for ages 4+

6/ HOT WHEELS RANGE-Collectable diecast to massive playsets which encourage hours of fun. Suitable for ages 4+

7/ LEAPFROG RANGE – Educational early learning products that enhance oral, sound, colour and motor skills for toddlers. Suitable for ages 6 – 36 months

8/ LEGO AND LEGO GAMES RANGE – Creative building can be enjoyed by all age groups from preschool being Duplo to City or Technic for the older enthusiast. Lego’s New Games offer a new and exciting way of game play. Suitable for ages 3+

9/ LITTLEST PET SHOP RANGE – How BIG is your Littlest Pet Shop collection? This brand provides the ultimate choice for girls who love to collect. Girls simply can’t get enough of these quirky, edgy and cute pet pals and the playsets and accessories that make the experience complete. Newly released Blythe doll, fashionista and pet sitter, adds a whole new dimension of play Suitable for 4 Years – & Up

10/ MY LITTLE PONY RANGE – Sugar and spice and friends for life My Little Pony core cast live in the fun-filled world of friendship choose from Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Toola-Roola, Cheerilie, Scootaloo, Starsong, or Sweetie Belle – or collect them all! These ponies make the perfect friend for any little girl Suitable for ages 4 years and up

11/ NERF RANGE – Win every battle with Nerf! When you’re in the heat of battle, you need a high-performance blaster that will have your back – whether it’s a Supersoaker water blaster to drench your friends, or a dart blaster N-Strike arsenal, Nerf has the blaster for you! Beware of imitations – its Nerf or Nothin’ this Christmas Suitable 6 Years – & Up

12/ PAPER JAMZ GUITAR – Pick up Paper Jamz Guitar and instantly become a Rock Star. Active Graphics Technology allows you to jam out by simply touching the surface. Built in speaker. Also has connection for earphone or amplifier. Age range: 8+

13/ PLAYWORLD – OUTDOOR PLAY EQUIPMENT – three, four and six swing and slide sets and trampolines provide a complete outdoor fun centre for your garden. Suitable for ages 2+

14/ POCKET MONEY COLLECTABLES – Mighty Beans, Zoobles, Party Animals, Gogo Crazy Bones. Cheap ranges that kids love to collect. Suitable for ages 4+

15/ REMOTE CONTROL (RC) RANGE – Includes cars, helicopters, boats and new and exciting innovative product such as Vectron Wave which flight mode is control by the palm of your hand. Suitable for ages 5+

16/ SCOOTERS – still a popular favourite, kids can ride to school and have hours of fun with their very own scooter. Suitable for ages 5+

17/ SYLVANIAN FAMILIES RANGE – collectable range of miniature dolls. The design of the range sets it apart from most of the other alternatives that are available and the unique little animal families, each with their own story, give children hours of pleasure (and many grown-ups too!). 4 years and older Ages

18/ THOMAS WOODEN RANGE – The Thomas Wooden Railway’ is designed to grow with your child’s increasing ability and creativity, so the fun and adventure always stay fresh. Suitable for 18 MONTHS +

19/ TONKA CHUCK MY RUMBLIN TRUCK – Your boy’s best buddy. Rumblin’ Chuck knows when he’s picked up, pushed around, or loaded up and says fun phrases for each. With over 50 phrases and sound effects, plus a bonus stock book (all that and he does wheelies too! Suitable for ages 3+

20/ ZHU ZHU PETS RANGE. Collectable characters which have their own unique personalities. With their whimsical sounds watch them scoot, scamper, bump and boogie across the floor or through their hamster habitat. Suitable for ages 4+ For more information visit www.toyworld.co.nz

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It’s already Christmas on Trade Me, with thousands of items listed for the festive season (21,532 as we write this). In this article we’ll attempt to  show you how to use Trade Me to make this Christmas wonderful, whether you’re on a budget or just shopping for that very special someone.

Oh yes — and we also have a hot offer [free!] for Trade Me sellers, so keep reading.

So — When Should You Start Shopping For Christmas?

If you have to ask, you’re probably a guy. Three-quarters of those who leave shopping until the last minute are men. Incredibly busy, right fellas? Yeah, us too.

It won’t come as any surprise to mall visitors that retailers have been in Christmas shopping mode for some time. The ubiquitous Cameron Brewer, chief executive of the Newmarket Business Association, warned in late September that “for better or worse consumers can expect to see Christmas decorations and displays popping up in some New Zealand shops over the next few weeks.” Sure enough, tinsel is definitely in the air all over.

Kiwis usually do their shopping somewhat ahead of the Christmas rush anyway. A 2007 study by AMP Capital Shopping Centres found that:

• 25% of Kiwis have begun their Christmas shopping by September 25, three months out from Christmas
• 16% start shopping in October
• 21% hit the malls in November
• 33% wait until the last fortnight before Christmas
• 7% of us (you know who you are, guys) leave Christmas shopping until the last minute
• Meanwhile an impossibly virtuous 3% head to the Boxing Day sales with vim and vigour, buying their gifts for the following year 364 days early.

How Much Should You Spend?

When it comes to holiday spending this year, 36 percent of American consumers expect to spend between $100 and $499, 28 percent plan to spend $500 to $999, and 30 percent anticipate a holiday spend of $1,000 or more.

Fifty-three percent of U.S. consumers are planning to spend less than they did last year. Of those who are planning to spend less this year, 48 percent reveal that one of the reasons that they are spending less is due to an increase in prices (necessities, petrol, etc.), 45 percent cite lack of confidence in the economy, and 38 percent indicate making less money as a reason for spending less.

We don’t have any recent NZ data for Christmas spend levels, but a five-year-old study by UMR Research on behalf of Visa International found that:

• More than 50% of Kiwis expected to spend less than $300 on Christmas gifts
• 16% intended to spend less than $100
• One in twenty said they were planning to “splash out” and spend more than $1000
• Credit card holders were more likely to expect to spend over $500 than non-cardholders (22 percent compared with 12 percent)
• Men generally planned to spend slightly more than women
• The most free-spending age group was 30-44 year-olds

Those numbers will probably be about the same or even lower this Christmas, given the economy — which makes Trade Me a pretty smart place to buy as much of your stuff as you can.

Half New

More than 50% of the items up for sale on Trade Me last Christmas were brand-new. We expect that percentage to keep growing this Christmas, so don’t worry that you can only buy something secondhand for your nearest and dearest. Of course, if you’re shopping for collectables or antiques, “new” probably isn’t such a good thing …

TIP: When you search on Trade Me, you can select your options so that only “New” items are displayed. Click on “New” in the yellow bar partway down the page that controls your List options.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING ON TRADE ME
PART A: IF YOU ALREADY KNOW EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT TO BUY

Sometimes we know exactly what sort of gift we want to buy. Gives us a warm, fuzzy feeling inside. So buying that gift is more a matter of knowing exactly where to find it and how much to pay.

1. Search
   Start your quest by searching for the item (let’s be incredibly creative and describe it as a ‘widget’) on Trade Me. Make a note of who’s selling widgets and at what price they’ve listed each widget.
2. Browse
   Browse in the widget category for misspellings, products without pictures and other items that won’t show up in searches (for more details, read our earlier article on how to find bargains on Trade Me).
3. Verify
   Check out the feedback of the widget sellers. Look for any recent negatives. Cross out any sellers with poor reputations, highlight those with better than sterling customer service. Add the good ones to your “favourite sellers” list to be emailed details of their new listings.
4. History Check
   Go to the Trade Me Search Box and click on “More Options”. Use the advanced search facility (with “Expired Items” selected) to see at what prices those widgets previously sold (or didn’t sell). That will give you an idea of the actual value of the widget in the Trade Me marketplace. (NB If your widget is rare or obscure, there may be no recent auction listings).
5. Real World
   Don’t forget the non-virtual world. Check out widget pricing in actual stores or in printed catalogues. And see what the Recommended Retail Pricing is, perhaps by phoning up widget stockists.
6. Comparison Shopping
   More than ever, comparison shopping is on the forefront of consumers’ minds, with 70 percent of consumers internationally doing more research and comparison shopping online, compared with 38 percent last year. And fifty percent of consumers are planning to shop at discount or outlet stores this year, while only 43 percent did so last year.

   Product comparison websites are commonplace overseas, rather less so here in NZ. However there are a few:

Technology Ubersite www.pricespy.co.nz

This is the site to visit for technology products. Has just launched a website makeover, still a bit buggy, but their database is the most comprehensive around.

General product comparison sites

• www.priceme.co.nz
• www.beforeyoubuy.co.nz

Both these sites offer a limited range of product comparisons, but could be worth a look.

7. The Daily Deal Sites

Air New Zealand’s Grabaseat was the first to hit the headlines in NZ. Now the category has taken off in a big way. The listings are random, but when widgets do come up you’ll get further insight into pricing to help with your homework. Here’s the latest collection of One Day Sale Websites (tip of the hat to Sheldon Nesdale of Marketing First blog for doing the heavy lifting):

• www.1-day.co.nz (NZ’s most popular one day sale site)
• www.6shooter.co.nz
• www.OffTheBack.co.nz
• www.DealADay.co.nz
• www.FirstIn.co.nz
• www.3Deals.co.nz
• www.MightyApe.co.nz
• www.WineDay.co.nz
• www.SnatchADeal.co.nz
• www.1-DayTee.co.nz [T-Shirts]
• www.TodaySale.co.nz
• www.TheTShirtStudio.co.nz [T-Shirts]
• www.Ziwi.co.nz [Books]
• www.1DayFishingSale.co.nz
• www.735pm.com

And, of course, the newly launched Yahoo!Xtra shopping site (with its own daily deal listings):

• shopping.yahooxtra.co.nz

Other new 1 Day Sale websites launching soon:

• www.DaySale.co.nz
• www.EzyDeal.co.nz

NB: For the past year global auction giant eBay has been offering daily deals at Deals.ebay.com. It’s an unlikely development for Trade Me — eBay ends up competing with its own customer base.

8. Get ready to buy

Having down all your homework, you’ll now know what sort of price to pay for your widget. Identify target auctions, hurry up and wait.

9. Hold your breath – and your bid

As you move into Bidding Mode, may we respectfully point you in the direction of Chapter Six of Trade Me Success Secrets. It reveals the most important secret of buying successfully on Trade Me, and deals with the topic in far more detail than we can address effectively here.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING ON TRADE ME
B. IF YOU HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA WHAT TO BUY

1. Who

Who are you buying for? Christmas gifts can go horribly wrong if you don’t take into account the recipients’ Personality Types.

We’ve found this really cool personality profiler at www.gifts.com that brings demographics alive. You really must go to the site to check it out, but here’s a sneak peek

• Buying for a SENIOR WOMAN? Is she a Country Clubber, Domestic Diva, Thinker, Super Grandma or Active Retiree?

The Candidates:

Delicious character details at the site, but here’s a sample definition:

The Super Grandma

• Weekend Plans: Three generations around the table for Sunday dinner.
• Second Career: Spoiling the grandkids.
• Favorite Accessory: Freshly baked chocolate chip cookies and milk.
• Guilty Pleasure: What’s there to feel guilty about — have another cookie!
• Bumper Sticker: If Mom and Dad say no, ask Grandma.
• Famous Examples: Marie from Everybody Loves Raymond.

SENIOR MEN:

• The Country Clubber
• The Thinker
• The Devoted Grandad
• The Active Retiree
• The Veteran

MEN:

• The Guy’s Guy
• The Geek
• The Devoted Dad
• The Achiever
• The Adventurer

WOMEN

• The Super Mom
• The Achiever
• The Hipster
• The Domestic Diva
• The Trendanista

TEEN GUYS

• The All-Star Athlete
• The Creative
• The X-Treme Dude
• The Student Leader
• The Tech Head
• The Class Clown

TEEN GIRLS

• The Activist
• The All-Star Athlete
• The Creative Spirit
• The X-Treme Dudette
• The Student Leader
• The Trendanista

BOYS

• The Smarty Pants
• The Jock
• Mr Imagination

GIRLS

• The Smart Cookie
• Miss Imagination
• The Girly Girl
• The Tomboy

Not sure what personality type your recipient might be? Take the test at http://www.gifts.com/finder

2. What

What types of gifts would your family/friends/significant others like to receive this holiday season? This is what American consumers told researchers last month:

• 72% of 18-24 year olds wanted Clothing or Accessories, as did 58% of 25-34s
• 40% of men (just 26% of women) wanted consumer electronics or compter-related accessories
• 55% of 25-34s wanted books, CDs, DVDs, videos or video games
• 26% of men wanted sporting goods or leisure items
• 26% of women wanted home decor or home-related furnishings
• 56% of 35-44s wanted gift cards or gift certificates, as did 53% of 45-54s and 49% of those 65 plus
• And 26% of women but just 7% of men wanted personal care or beauty items

This data from BIGresearch’s Consumer Intention & Actions study (October 2009)

3. Specifics

Want more specific advice? Google “most wanted gifts 2009″ and you’ll find a variety of lists of the Most Wanted, for men, women, kids, teens, you name it.

4. Use the Trade Me Christmas Gift Finder

If you’re still at a loss, check out the new and very helpful Trade Me Christmas Gift Finder.

There you’ll find

• Gifts for kids
• Gifts for Mum
• Gifts for Dad
• Gifts for your wife or girlfriend [best not to get the two confused, it can lead to unfortunate outcomes ]
• Gifts for your husband or boyfriend [also try not to mix up the two, not that they'd notice]
• Gifts for grandparents
• Gifts for babies
• Gifts for pets

[Not sure about that last one, especially in tough times!]

5. Go Back To Part A

Once you know exactly what you want, go through the processes described in Part A above.

And another thing

Oh yeah, one last thing. If after going through this process you still can’t find what you want on Trade Me, you could always check out the Neiman Marcus Christmas Catalog. Highlights of the 2009 edition:

• His & Hers Gift Package, $250,000: An ICON A5 sport aircraft with custom trailer and sport pilot license training for two. The ICON A5 is from a world-class team of engineers and designers who helped create the groundbreaking Virgin Global Flyer, and features an amphibious hull and landing gear to take off and land just as easily on water as on land.
• Algonquin Round Table Experience, $200,000: Exclusive dinner party at NYC’s legendary Algonquin Hotel with guests including Christopher Buckley, Roz Chast, Nora Ephron, Malcolm Gladwell, Henry Louis Gates Jr., Adam Gopnik, John Lithgow, Anna Deavere Smith and George Stephanopoulos. Proceeds to benefit First Book, the 2009 Christmas Book Charity.
• 2010 Jaguar XJL Supercharged Neiman Marcus Edition, $105,000: Limited to only 50 examples, the bespoke version of Jag’s new flagship features a supercharged 5-liter V8 that delivering 470 hp, a custom interior of butter-soft navy and ivory leather and Zebrano matte wood accents, and includes a five-piece set of matching Jaguar luggage in navy blue leather.
• Maker’s Mark Master Distiller Experience, $7,500: All-access, VIP experience with Maker’s Mark Master Distiller, Kevin Smith. Spend a day making whiskey, step by step and take home two bottles of the rarest Maker’s Mark – golden bottles etched with your likeness and dipped in gold wax with 24-kt gold flecks. Includes luxury accommodations in Louisville and a gourmet dinner hosted by Bill Samuels, the 7th generation of Maker’s Mark
• HALL Artisan Wine and Art Experience, $20,000: Learn organic, artisan winemaking firsthand, tour the estates in Napa and the art collection, and have the opportunity to create your own personal vintage in a private blending session with HALL’s Winemaker with a custom vintage bottled for you. Includes accommodations at Auberge and a private dinner party with Ambassador Kathryn Hall.

PS We almost forgot — that invitation for Trade Me sellers. If you have suitable Christmas gift items for sale, pimp our traffic. Comment on this blog post, use your seller name as your ID and tell us WHAT product categories you have for sale and TO WHOM they would best appeal. Be specific if you want to be helpful. Items as listed on Trade Me only, please — we do moderate.

PPS Note to buyers: if you’re looking for Christmas inspiration, make sure you read the Comments (and perhaps even come back more than once to do so). Entrepreneurial sellers will be strutting their stuff for your consideration.

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Yep, if you’re a Trade Me seller, now’s the time to start rolling out your Christmas selling programme — you’ll see the big retailing chains throwing up the tinsel and dusting off those trees even earlier than ever in 2009, as they work hard on offsetting the lousy sales of earlier months and bidding a less than fond farewell to the recession.

And if you’re a Trade Me buyer, now’s the time to start planning your purchases — early bird gets the worm (not just a ‘Sold Out’ sign) at a hopefully healthy discount.

So, as a public service, allow us to tell you about the year’s hottest toys, as designated by US toy megaretailer Toys R Us:

THE TOYS”R”US 2009 HOLIDAY HOT TOY LIST

From Baby’s First Christmas to Big Kids, the Toys”R”Us Holiday Hot Toy List represents the top new toys for 2009 in each age group:

• BABY’S FIRST CHRISTMAS

3-in-1 Smart Trike from little tikes
From babies to beginning riders, even the tiniest tots will enjoy taking a spin on this adjustable tricycle. Featuring a full metal frame, handle and shade canopy, parents can push their little ones while strolling the neighborhood and then pop out pedals when a child is old enough to ride on their own. Two included seats can be swapped out to accommodate different aged riders, including a harnessed version to keep babies safely strapped in. A storage bucket also lets kids take their favorite treasures along on any neighborhood adventure. No batteries required. Ages 10 to 36 months.

Laugh & LearnLearning Farm from Fisher-Price
Babies and toddlers can have fun on the farm as they learn about animals, the alphabet, counting, opposites, colors and more in this double-sided role-play activity center. The magic begins when little ones open the barn door and crawl through, triggering sing-along songs, lights, music, sounds and fun phrases. In learning mode, kids are introduced to animal names, the sounds they make and the food they eat. While in music mode, a crop of songs will delight even the tiniest tots, with a selection of classics and fresh tunes. 3 “AA” batteries required (not included). Ages 6 to 36 months.

Little Superstar Jammin’ Band Musical Microphone from Fisher-Price
Young tots can get rockin’ with a musical activity center designed to prepare them for their first pretend concert. Filled with instrument play and other fun activities, this working microphone lets toddlers amplify their voices as they sing along to six songs and four karaoke tunes or explore their creativity with “build a song” mode. As budding superstars grow, the microphone can be adjusted from a sit-and-play activity into a toy where kids can stand and dance while proudly showing off their performance. 4 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 6 to 36 months.

• 13 MONTHS TO 2 YEARS

Color Me a Song from Crayola Beginnings
Combining Picasso and Miles Davis, tots can strike up a band and create their own tunes while exploring their first artistic expressions. Toddlers can exercise their creativity by drawing on a blank sheet of paper with the eight included Crayola Washable Triangular crayons, while the speed of their scribbles determines the pace of the music. The faster kids color, the more the tempo increases, and toddlers can mix sounds from a piano, banjo, trumpet and drum, while switching between different musical styles such as salsa, rock, swing and country. Built-in storage for eight triangular crayons allows kids to take their masterpiece-making-band on road trips. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 24 months and up.

Little Momm Baby Ah-Choo from Fisher-Price
Baby Ah-Choo sneezes, wheezes and sniffles as kids squeeze her tummy in an attempt to nurse her back to health. Toddlers will love making Baby Ah-Choo “all better” with accessories, such as “a spoonful of medicine” and a thermometer that interact with this baby doll to elicit fun reactions. Featuring over 30 sounds and phrases, such as, “Can I have a tissue?” and “My nose is running,” Baby Ah-Choo comes with a box of tissues and medicine bottle, offering kids everything they need to “cure” the common cold. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 2 years and up.

Sesame Street The Original Tickle Me Elmo from Fisher-Price
After more than a decade of bringing laughter to kids of all ages, The Original Tickle Me Elmo is back, exclusively at Toys”R”Us. Tickle him once and he’ll giggle. Tickle him twice and he’ll laugh. Tickle him three times and watch him convulse with laughter! This classic toy started a phenomenon when it was first released and still brings smiles to little ones today. When Elmo’s tummy is squeezed, he’ll let kids know, “That tickles!” as he breaks out in laughter. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 18 months to 4 years.

Tonka CHUCK & FRIENDS CHUCK MY TALKING TRUCK from Playskool
Chuck is a friendly little dump truck with the gift of gab, chatting while he works on his construction projects. With more than 40 phrases, sounds and actions, kids can lift his dump bed, press his roof or push his bumper to hear Chuck say phrases such as, “Time to find some dirt!” Chuck is fully interactive, featuring sound recognition that lets him roll his tires when kids call him. An accompanying storybook, “Get to Work,” lets kids explore Chuck’s world, which includes his construction vehicle friends. 3 “C” batteries required (included). Ages 2 years and up.

• 2 TO 4 YEARS

Disney-Pixar Toy Story Interactive Buddies Talking Action Figures from Thinkway
Buzz Lightyear and Woody are back from their owner Andy’s toy box, and just like in the movies, they banter and bicker like real pals. With this Toys”R”Us exclusive, kids can choose between three different interactive modes to hear these buddies speak individually or with each other, using their actual voices from the movies. Between Buzz and Woody, the duo can say over 100 phrases, including lines from Toy Story and Toy Story 2, along with additional buddy interactions. 3 “AA” batteries and 3 “AAA” batteries required (not included). Ages 4 years and up.

Disney Princess: Just One Kiss Princess Tiana Doll from Mattel
Stepping out of this holiday season’s highly-anticipated animated theatrical release from Disney Studios, The Princess and the Frog, Princess Tiana is ready to find her prince, even if she has to kiss a frog or two first. Dressed to regal perfection, Tiana is a vision of loveliness with a tiara, necklace and blue ball gown adorned with firefly lights that sparkle and shine. She’s accompanied by the frog prince, who desperately yearns for a kiss to transform him back into a man. When girls bring the frog up to Tiana for a kiss, she will turn her head away and say one of the phrases from the movie. The fourth time the frog is brought up to her, Tiana finally agrees to kiss the prince. 3 “button cell” batteries required (included). Ages 4 years and up.

Imaginext Dragon World Fortress from Fisher-Price
With action at every turn, this fortress world allows kids to open gates, make lightning crackle, and unleash a powerful dragon with a fierce roar. Two medieval-themed action figures activate all of the castle’s secret abilities, including a launching cannon to ward off intruders and a boulder that can be released down the dragon’s tail to attack invaders. With fantastic accessories and battle sound effects, kids will believe they’ve been transported to the age of swords and sorcery. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 3 to 8 years.

Paperoni Deluxe Studio from Spin Master
With a dash of imagination and this Deluxe Studio, young artisans can create 3D artwork using tiny, colorful paper rolls. This mess-free set lets kids devise and craft animals, friendly faces and more using a child-friendly cutter that helps them effortlessly cut Paperoni paper rolls into six different lengths with the turn of a dial and the push of a lever. Offering additional depth to every work of art, crafty kids can design dozens of creations with 600 1/2-inch Paperoni pieces, 32 9-1/2-inch Paperoni pieces, one 2D self-adhesive template, one 3D template, Tweezers, eight gems and additional embellishments. No batteries required. Ages 4 years and up.

SCATTERPILLAR SCRAMBLE from Hasbro Games
Preschoolers can challenge their friends in a race to climb to the top of a giant Scaterpillar as it dances and grooves to its favorite music. As kids move their marbles, one at a time, into the Scatterpillar’s hands, it squiggles and squirms, dropping marbles and setting players back. The first player to get all eight marbles to the top wins. 3 “AA” batteries required (not included). Ages 4 years and up.

Text & Learn from LeapFrog
Because we all want our littlies to learn to get addicted to crackberries from an early age! Little learners can explore in a grown-up way by mimicking how mom and dad use their Blackberries with this oversized version that provides educational fun through three different modes. Whether exchanging text messages with their puppy pal Scout or checking Scout’s planner to see his weekly schedule in pretend browser mode, toddlers will learn the basics of communicating while using a real keyboard. Additionally, children can match letters, identify shapes, learn letter names and more. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 3 years and up.

• 5 TO 7 YEARS

BAKUGAN BATTLE BRAWLERS NEW VESTROIA Maxus Helios 7 in 1 from Spin Master
Fans of Bakugan Battle Brawlers beware – the Maxus Helios Mega Bakugan has arrived This ultimate fighter is formed by connecting seven different Bakugan marbles: Helios, Scraper, Klawgor, Foxbat, Fencer, Leefram and Spindle. Maxus Helios can battle as one united force, or individually, to give kids a variety of combat options to help them excel in Bakugan, which combines trading card game play with collectible marbles. No batteries required. Ages 5 years and up.

Barbie Fashionista doll collection from Mattel
Decked out in the best outfits, shoes and accessories, this collection of fashion-forward Barbie dolls each feature their own distinct fashion personality, including Glam, Cutie, Girly, Wild, Sassy and Artsy. With 12 points of articulation, these Barbie dolls can bend their elbows, twist their wrists, bend at the waist and roll their heads, allowing them to pose over 100 different ways. Each doll comes complete with one stylish outfit, and endless possibilities, for hours of fun. No batteries required. Ages 3 years and up. Each doll sold separately.

Battle Strikers Turbo Tops Tournament Set from MEGA Bloks
Battle Strikers Turbo Tops put a new spin on battling tops by letting kids launch without ripcords or pull strings, while offering unprecedented control. Kids rev up the handheld turbo launcher, which reaches speeds of 6000 RPM, and release their Striker top into the battle arena to compete against an opponent. Once the Battle Strikers are launched, kids can direct their tops with the flick of a fingertip through a magnetic controller that fits over two fingers. With 16 types of Strikers to collect, players can mix and match components to customize as they prepare for battle. The 17-piece Tournament Set includes two Turbo Launchers, two magnetic Controllers, two exclusive Strikers and one Battle Arena. 6 “AA” batteries required (not included). Ages 6 years and up.

ChixOs Pink Design-A-Luxury Loft from Spin Master
The ChixOs Design-A-Luxury Loft offers the perfect space for an amazing party, but the fun can’t begin before kids decorate their stylin’ pad. To prepare for the festivities, kids can dress and style three ChixOs dolls from 243 possible choices of mix and match body parts, then give them a dusting of glitter for the finishing touch. Junior interior designers can also decorate the loft by building 3D furniture and accessories when they join PixOs with water to create couches, tables or anything imaginable. No batteries required. Ages 4 years and up.

Egyptian Pyramid from playmobil
Kids can bring home one of the seven wonders of the world with the Egyptian Pyramid, available exclusively at Toys”R”Us. Featuring a 14-inch high pyramid, which kids can construct, young architects will be able to assemble tricks and ambushes with removable plastic walls, a collapsible staircase, chute, scorpion trap, secret treasure chamber and trapdoor with slide. Now, children have everything they need to help the Pharaoh safeguard his jewels against treasure hunters. No batteries required. Ages 5 years and up.

Harumika RUNWAY SHOWSTOPPER SET from Bandai
Future designers create fantastic fashions by folding fabric over a dress mannequin and locking the swatches in place. Once a new dress is formed, kids can capture images of their garment with an included USB camera before uploading them to the Harumika website where their styles can join an online fashion show. The set comes with everything needed to design runway perfect couture, including a pink dress form mannequin, stylus tool, several rolls of foldable fabric, accessories, rhinestones, stickers and two Harumika charms that hold special codes that unlock exclusive content on www.harumika.com. Even the handle on the display case offers fashion forward opportunities, transforming into a bracelet. No batteries required. Ages 6 years and up.

Matchbox Rocky the Robot Truck from Mattel
This hard-working, interactive dump truck is ready to roll with sensors, motorized movements and 100 phrases. Quickly becoming any child’s best friend, Rocky tells jokes, dances and flashes his headlights as he speaks. With a rugged design and a full-tilting bed, kids can even use Rocky for construction projects like loading up, moving out, hauling and dumping. When the work is done, Rocky even sleeps and snores. 4 “C” batteries required (included). Ages 3 years and up.

Moxie Girlz Jammaz dolls from MGA Entertainment
Breaking into the fashion doll scene, Moxie Girlz are ready to help empower girls to express themselves with courage, determination and energy. Since there’s no better place for kids to have fun than at a rock-themed slumber party, all dolls in the Jammaz line, Lexa, Avery, Sasha and Sophina, come decked out in their favorite pajamas with accessories guaranteed to help show off their inner rock stars. A wig, heart-shaped guitar, microphone, tiara and glasses complete the transformation from doll to pop princess. No batteries required. Ages 6 years and up. Each doll sold separately.

NERF N-Strike Raider Rapid Fire CS-35 from Hasbro
Ready to take on any dart challenge, this NERF blaster has the capacity to hold up to 35 NERF darts at once, ensuring kids will have a blast long before ever needing to reload. Providing versatility, the NERF RAIDER can instantly switch from “single” fire mode to launch one dart at a time or “slam” fire mode to unleash a rapid stream of 35 darts. A removable stock and Tactical Rail System complete the package, allowing players to customize their blaster for every scenario. As an added bonus, the NERF RAIDER features a collapsible stock and a drum magazine that can be used with additional NERF products. No batteries required. Ages 6 years and up.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars Clone Turbo Tank from Hasbro
When the Clone Army protects Jedi during a rescue mission or helps overcome an attack from the Separatist Droid Army, the Clone Turbo Tank is part of the action. This heavily armed and armored ten-wheel vehicle features a Tank Gunner action figure, cannon pods with firing missiles, a rotating gunner station, doors that can open and close, a removable command center and room for an entire squadron of Clone Troopers. To help the troops chase escaping droids, an included Speeder Bike can launch into action from the rear of the vehicle. Lights, sounds and Clone Trooper phrases complete the battle scenario for kids who are playing “a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away.” 3 “AA” batteries required (not included). Ages 4 and up.

TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN CONSTRUCTICON DEVASTATOR from Hasbro
Kids can take control of the ultimate weapon in the evil DECEPTICON army with this monstrous TRANSFORMERS action figure that can be built by combining six different construction vehicles known as the CONSTRUCTICONS. Before converting into DEVASTATOR, children can pretend they’re waiting to ambush the heroic AUTOBOTS at a construction site with these Robots in Disguise, including LONGHAUL, MIXMASTER, SCAVENGER, RAMPAGE, SCRAPPER, and HIGHTOWER. After changing into its ultimate form, DEVASTATOR can unleash its weapons with lights and sounds that bring the excitement of this summer’s blockbuster film TRANSFORMERS: Revenge of the Fallen to life. 2 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 5 years and up.

Zhu Zhu Pets Hamster from Cepia
These adorable, furry, interactive hamsters double as the perfect family pet and a best friend. With five hamsters to choose from, kids can select one that reflects their personality, including Patches, the flower-lover; Chunk, a laid-back surfer; Pipsqueak, a tiny titan of power; Mr. Squiggles, who loves to explore; or Num Nums, who loves to eat. With more than 40 different sound effects and artificial intelligence, these pets will dart around the house, play in hamster tubes, run on wheels and more. Zhu Zhu Pets also make fun sound effects, such as toilet-flushing, teeth-brushing sounds and sleeping noises. 2 “AAA” batteries required (included). Ages 4 years and up. Each hamster sold separately.

• 8 TO 11 YEARS

Barbie b-nails digital nail printer from Mattel
Young fashionistas can glam it up like Barbie with a spa-like manicure in the comfort of their own home. This new digital nail printer allows girls to select designs from over 1,000 available images or upload their own creations from their computer. Whether using the printer to add decals over polish or directly onto a nail, young manicurists can place their fingernail into the printer after using scaling and sizing tools to select the perfect style. Printing takes only a few seconds and the designs last for days. No batteries required. Ages 8 years and up.

Disney Netpal from ASUS
Available in Princess Pink and Magic Blue, this Disney-themed netbook computer was designed with Internet safety in mind, allowing parents to create a web-safe computing environment for their kids with more than two dozen parental controls. Once kids turn on the netbook, they’re logged on to the Disney Desktop, an intuitive software program that offers simple operation for children, along with easy access to the Disney web browser, which is preloaded with several kid-friendly websites. The Disney Desktop also comes with a “gadget tray” with icons for easy access to applications and a collection of 15 widgets, including a stopwatch and a digital memo pad. Rugged and durable, this has a spill-proof keyboard and a 16GB SSD drive that can withstand bumps. A preinstalled card allows the Disney Netpal to access networks wirelessly. 1 “4200mAh Polymer” internal rechargeable battery is required (included). Ages 6 years and up.

EyeClops Mini Projector from JAKKS Pacific
Children can create their own big screen entertainment with this pint-sized projector that can display an image up to 60-inches when connected to a DVD player, multimedia player, video game console or other video device. Once kids plug the unit into the A/V jacks of any home entertainment device, they can turn their ceiling into an arcade, the side of their house into an outdoor movie theater or the seat in front of them into a TV screen. Children can also take their big-screen experience on the road by plugging the projector into an outlet with an AC adaptor while inside or powering it with an included battery pack while outdoors. 4 “D” batteries required (not included). Ages 8 years and up.

Fast Lane JLX OVER DRIVE RADIO CONTROL ALL TERRAIN VEHICLE from Toys”R”Us
Remote control drivers can take the wheel of the ultimate R/C experience with this miniature ATV that reaches scale speeds of 225 MPH, performs awesome stunts with self-propelled flipping action tires and has the ability to drive on almost any terrain, including land, water or snow. Kids can even take this Toys”R”Us exclusive to the air with a ramp-assisted jump that can propel the JLX more than 6 feet. The JLX features a recyclable Nickel Metal Hydride battery pack, offering a longer battery life with each charge. 1 “9V” battery and 1 “12V” rechargeable Ni-Mh battery required (included). Ages 8 years and up.

Liv from Spin Master
This new collection of dolls, designed to look like real teenagers, merges the world of fashion play with an online community. Using a code provided with each doll, children can peer into the daily routine of the Liv girls, Daniela, Sophie, Katie and Alexis, when they visit www.livworld.com, which offers daily diary entries, virtual closets filled with fashions, webisodes, games and more. Beyond offering a real teen perspective, each Liv doll comes with realistic glass-like eyes, 14 points of articulation for greater poseability and wigs that allow children to switch their doll’s hairstyle or color easily. No batteries required. Ages 5 years and up. Each doll sold separately.

Mindflex from Mattel
Mindflex challenges players to test their mind-over-matter skills by levitating a soft foam ball in order to move it through an obstacle course, using only the power of their mind. Kids just strap on the included headset that contains sensors for the forehead and earlobes to measure their brainwave activity. With deep concentration, the ball rises on a stream of air, and when the mind relaxes the ball begins to descend. Players must master these mental maneuvers to guide the ball through an obstacle course that they design from hundreds of interchangeable combinations. Up to three friends can challenge each other with five unique game modes, including multiplayer games, to prove who is the most accurate mental warrior. 4 “C” batteries and 3 “AAA” batteries required (not included). Ages 8 years and up.

Star Wars Fan’s Choice Anniversary Edition Home One Mon Calamari Star Cruiser from LEGO Systems, Inc.
Modeled after scenes from Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi, this 789-piece construction set contains enough pieces to build the classic Mon Calamari Star Cruiser’s command deck, briefing room and repair hangar. Developed after it was voted by fans as the most sought after Star Wars spacecraft never before produced as a LEGO model, this massive set also comes with an A-wing fighter that kids can build, featuring an opening cockpit, rear doors and two flick missiles. Six mini figures, including Admiral Ackbar, a Mon Calamari soldier, Mon Mothma, General Lando Calrissian, General Madine and an A-wing Pilot let builders take control of the ship by directing Admiral Ackbar on his command seat to plan an attack on the Empire with the Death Star hologram. No batteries required. Ages 9 – 14 years.

• FOR BIG KIDS

Bakugan Battle Brawlers from Activision
Now video game players can heed the “call to brawl” with the first Bakugan game developed for Xbox 360, PlayStation3, PlayStation2, Wii and Nintendo DS. Taking control of their favorite Bakugan characters from the animated series, players can participate in intense battles and create their own Bakugan Battle Brawler in an environment featuring cartoon quality graphics and multiplayer combat. No batteries required. Rated “E” for “Everyone.” Video game systems sold separately.

DSi from Nintendo
Building on the popular Nintendo DS platform, this updated system combines the fun of handheld gaming consoles with the ability to take pictures and search the Internet. Available in black, blue or pink, the Nintendo DSioffers dual-screen, touch-sensitive play, and comes with a stylus to help control in-game action. Users can play any of the hundreds of existing DS titles or grow their gaming library with Nintendo DSi-specific titles and downloadable DSiWare content, including games and applications. The sleek, folding design easily fits in a hand or pocket, so users can listen to music as they walk down the street, get directions to the nearest restaurant or snap pictures they can edit, send to friends or upload to Facebook. One “lithium ion” rechargeable battery required (included). Ages 6 years and up.

Reader Pocket Edition from Sony
With the capacity to store approximately 350 standard eBooks in a device that can easily fit into a pocket, this Reader lets anyone flip open their favorite books in the car, on a plane, at a restaurant or even in a library. Sporting a five-inch electronic display, and available in a variety of colors such as navy blue and rose, this device offers clear and crisp pages for easy readability. Users can also take the Reader on all of their trips, long and short, with up to two weeks of reading enjoyment on a single battery charge. The Reader comes equipped with a USB cable that can connect to a computer to download books from a variety of online sources, as well as public libraries across the country. One “lithium ion” rechargeable battery required (included). Ages 12 years and up.

Wii Sports Resort from Nintendo
This sequel to the popular Wii Sports takes the action out of the console and onto a virtual island resort, filled with a dozen fun activities. Using the Wii Remote and Nunckuk controllers, players can take control of their Mii characters to compete against the computer or their friends in archery, basketball, bowling, golf, table tennis, fencing, air sports, canoeing, cycling, Frisbee, power cruising and wakeboarding. Adding to the challenge, Wii Sports Resort comes with one Wii MotionPlus accessory that attaches to the base of a Wii Remote, enhancing players’ precision by recognizing the slightest twist or turn of the Wii Remote. No batteries required. Rated “E” for “Everyone.” Wii system sold separately.

A couple of final observations from TOYS R US:

• There is no ONE hot toy for every child – While attention may be paid to one specific hot toy each year, that item is not necessarily appropriate for every child. The hottest toy for a five-year-old girl may not appear on an eight-year-old boy’s wish list. The age and interests of a child are key factors in determining the perfect gift.

• Quality AND Value matter – Value has two components: what consumers pay for an item and what they get for that price. Toys that last for years to come and provide open-ended play are among the most sought-after items during the holiday season.

CHRISTMAS DOWN UNDER

From what we understand, most of the above goodies will be available in New Zealand. For those that are not — Trade Me sellers, you know an opportunity when you see one! Happy trading and a Ho Ho Ho to you!

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All kinds of everything, but the Top 15 most-searched-for items in Trade Me for December 2007 were:

15 Harley
14 $1 reserve (new)
13 Kayak
12 Trampolines
11 Puppies
10 Louis Vuitton (new) 
9 Wedding
8 PSP
7 Transformers
6 PS3
5 Billabong
4 Unwanted (new)
3 Tents
2 Playboy clothing
1 iPod 

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According to those fine folk at Nielsen//NetRatings and their NZ Market Intelligence research, these were the top 10 websites in the Shopping category for December 2007:

• At Number 10, nzpost.co.nz/goshopping, which attracted 9,409 unique browsers across the month, looking for postage and packaging details.
• Number 9, mags4gifts.co.nz, Fairfax Magazines’ subscriptions-as-Christmas-gifts promotional site, 12,826 browsers.
• Number 8, interflora.co.nz appealed to 20,322 who like the thought of saying it with flowers.
• Number 7, smokecds.com, luring in 30,777 music lovers to this smokin’ music store.
• Number 6, torpedo7.co.nz, 46,051 extreme sport fanatics, on yer bike.
• Number 5, 1-day.co.nz, torpedo7′s one-day-deals site, lured 64,923 punters.
• Number 4, 121,564 visitors decided they’d like to sellmefree.co.nz.
• Number 3, designerexposure.com drew 192,909 in search of a little bit of luxury.
• Number 2, all that marketing drove 303,234 to ferrit.co.nz.

And, at Number 1, still champion after all these years, trademe.co.nz with a mere 3,532,434 unique browsers, more than eleven times the traffic of the Number 2 slot. Trade Me, take a bow.

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We’ve just reached the Tipping Point. In the lead-up to Christmas 2007, undoubtedly driven by that seasonal event, 50.4% of the items on sale on Trade Me were new.

Yes, you read that correctly – more than half the items on sale on Trade Me pre-Christmas were NEW.  

The times, they are a’changing.

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Firstly, some fast factoids courtesy Trade Me’s head of commercial, Mike O’Donnell:

“Last year we saw regifting start to take off around 28 December, this year it was evident by Boxing Day evening.

“Over two thousand items put up in the two days immediately after Christmas have been identified as being unwanted Christmas presents, however the real number is likely to be more than twice that as the social stigma of selling a present prevents many from ‘fessing up’.

“We estimate that about half of our recent growth in listings has been driven by people liquidating unwanted gifts,” said Mr O’Donnell.

“The five most popular items for regifting so far this Christmas are gift vouchers, cosmetics, jewellery, music CDs and kitchen appliances.  Previously popular regifting items included ties, boxer shorts and chocolates.”

That’s the view from Trade Me. Global giant eBay, on the other hand, announced at the end of the official holiday season that “more than a million gifts have been offered for sale and as an opportunity to be re-gifted.”

“We see a noticeable rise in listings after Christmas as people look to rehome their unwanted presents and raise some extra cash for the New Year.

“Patterned ties, bubble bath, socks and the obligatory foot spa are firm favourites guaranteed to pop up on Boxing Day.”

According to eBay’s annual re-gifting survey (conducted by Harris Interactive and reported by ABC News) 83% of American adults receive unwanted gifts during the holiday season. This can’t be just the casual-acquaintance category of gifts–it has to include gifts from loved ones too. This means that most people are potential re-gifters or resellers. Do you think the gift you gave could end up being re-gifted? The survey said that nearly half of those adults (47%) typically re-gift or resell items.

Better than re-gifting, and becoming more and more acceptable, is reselling. Businesspeople and housewives, college students and professionals are all finding their way to an Internet-driven marketplace to sell their gifts and fatten their wallets. eBay to the rescue. The same survey found that unwanted does not mean unappreciated: Nearly one-third of all adults surveyed (32%) would rather get a present they could re-gift or resell than not get a present at all.

eBay Canada, getting into the ‘spirit’ of the anti-season, offers up its own (somewhat materialistic) point of view:

“There’s absolutely nothing wrong with re-gifting, as long as it’s done the right way. Just because a gift isn’t your style or taste doesn’t mean it isn’t perfect for someone else. Storing an unwanted gift at the back of your closet is just a waste – why not re-gift it and let someone else enjoy it?”

Not only that, but eBay Canada even provides some re-gifting etiquette to help you re-purpose those unwanted holiday gifts:

• Don’t re-gift the re-gifter – Lots of people have horror stories of proudly presenting a gift they pulled from the back of the closet to a friend or family member, only to have them say “Didn’t I give this to you?” Avoid embarrassment by writing the name of the giver on a sticky note and placing it on the gift itself.
• Make a list – If you received a number of gifts that just aren’t your taste, make a note of a friend or family member who you know will love it. Or think about a special event that might be on the horizon, like a wedding or anniversary. If you’re confident the gift is on someone else’s wish list, you’ll be able to hand it over to someone who will really appreciate it.
• Don’t keep it in the family – If you received an unwanted gift from your cousin, don’t re-gift it to her sister! Be discreet and only re-gift to someone who doesn’t come into regular contact with the original sender. Selling your item on eBay is a great way to avoid having to explain why your gift is suddenly hanging on someone else’s wall.
• Accept graciously – Sometimes you get a gift that you really dislike but it’s from someone you see very often and don’t want to offend. If that’s the case, accept it graciously. If it’s something wearable, like jewelry or a scarf, wear it once or twice in their presence so they can feel good about it. If it’s something for the house, like a vase, keep it in the closet until you know the person will be visiting; then whip it out and give it pride of place. It’s always best to avoid hurting someone’s feelings.
• Donate it – Charities are often looking for special items. Instead of hiding unwanted gifts of clothing in the bottom drawer, donate them to a shelter. Or donate a quirky item to an organization’s charity auction. Your re-gifting will make a difference to someone who really needs it.
• Sell it – Selling an unwanted gift is a win/win situation. You’ve passed it on to someone who really wants it, and you’ve experienced some joy from the gift itself (albeit in the form of cash!) This especially comes in handy in January when you’re reeling from your holiday credit card bill. Selling it online virtually guarantees finding someone who will love your item and pay top dollar for it!
• Enjoy the spirit of the season! – This time of the year is about family, togetherness and sharing, so appreciate the thought behind your gift, no matter how much or how little it appeals to you – and remember to send a note of thanks!

Thanks eBay! Those sweet sentiments make us feel so special …

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Probably. But, at the risk of being branded post-Christmas humbugs and unseasonal Scrooges, may we respectfully submit our observation that at least some of the so-called ”unwanted gifts” currently being peddled on Trade Me are actually nothing of the kind.

What are we to make, for example, of the poor unfortunate trader who apparently received not one, not two but three necklaces made from shell, each being sold as unwanted bling in the new age & spirituality section? Or the Tupperware Large Cake Container, billed as “an unwanted gift which I have used only a couple of times”? Really? Since Christmas?

We’re not sure whether to feel sorry for — or denounce as a marketer — the poor unfortunate person selling four different XBox360 games as gifts supposedly bought for but rejected by an ungrateful son.  And we really should point out to the person selling money tins that describing a couple of listings as “unwanted gifts” strains credibility when simultaneously listing other money tins as part of an ongoing product range.

We have a little more belief in (and sympathy for) the regifter of the Ab King Pro fitness equipment, “still has plastic wrapping, includes dvd and diet plan” — the gift that keeps on nagging. We can’t help but feel sorry for the generous gift-giver whose $653 Pascoes gift voucher is now being offered at a discount on Trade Me by a recipient who says she “doesn’t wear very much jewellery, so has no real use for it”.  And we worry about the person selling the wedding keepsake, expressing good wishes for an upcoming wedding — but now unwanted.

When it comes to unwanted Christmas gifts, frankly, we would expect to find many more listings such as the “elf on a sunflower” ornament or the Moon & Star Phone Charm. And what ever happened to those hideous knitted cardigans and flamboyant ties and scarves beloved of well-meaning but hopelessly out-of-date maiden aunts?

Today’s listings on Trade Me are far too pedestrian. Of course, they’ll probably sell.

If you’re contemplating regifting some of your own Christmas knicknacks, some suggestions as noted on Regiftable.com:

Is the gift regiftable?  Never regift handmade or one-of-a-kind items.  Signed books and monogrammed items are off-limits.  Do you have to be told not to regift free promotional items?  Some gifts that are good candidates for regifting include good (unopened!) bottles of wine, new household items and inexpensive jewellery.

How is the condition?  Only new, unopened gifts in good condition should be considered for regifting.  Never give partially used gift cards.  Don’t give items that you have owned for a long time.  A general rule of thumb:  if you have to dust it off, it is not regiftable. 

Is this going to work?  Successful regifters use common sense.  If you are going to regift, be sure you know who gave you the item, so you don’t return something to the original giver.  Only regift items to people who are not likely to see the original giver.

Do you have good intentions?  Don’t just give a gift to give a gift.  Be sure that the recipient will appreciate the item.  Remember, if you feel that an item is undesirable, the recipient probably will too.  If you are regifting simply because you ran out of time, gift cards are simple to obtain and always well received.

How does it look?  When it comes to gift-giving, go for show!  While gift bags in good condition can be reused, wrapping paper is a one-time thing.  Always spring for a new card or gift tag.

Can you handle it?  If you don’t plan to announce the gift as a regift, ask yourself if you can keep the secret.  Never feel guilty about regifting once you’ve done it. 

Have you considered your options?  An unwanted gift could be a welcome donation to a charitable organization. It is also an option to suck it up and keep an unwanted gift—after all, it was a gift.

All good advice for regifting on Trade Me (or eBay) as well! 

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