Our Favourite Promotional Items for Outdoor Events in New Zealand

If you’ve ever been part of an outdoor event here in New Zealand—whether it’s a community fair, music festival, school sports day, or a coastal market—you’ll know just how important it is to show up prepared. We’ve been fortunate to help out at various events across the country, and one thing we’ve consistently observed is how the right promotional products can significantly enhance your presence.

From practical giveaways to thoughtful touches that make attendees feel well taken care of, here are the items we keep coming back to—the ones that are always used, remembered, and appreciated.

1. Branded Drinkware

You’d be surprised how many people forget to bring a water bottle to an outdoor event, especially when it’s warm out. That’s why reusable drinkware is one of our top picks. We’ve supplied stainless steel bottles, flasks, and coffee cups for a wide range of events, from outdoor expos to beachside gatherings. They’re useful, sustainable, and people tend to keep them long after the day is over.

Why we love custom drinkware:

• Helps kiwis stay hydrated in the sun
• It can be reused, so it also reduces waste

2. Sun Protection Essentials

We’ve been caught out by the sun more than once, which is probably why sun protection always makes it to our essentials list. Branded sunscreens, lip balm sticks, and wide-brimmed hats are also among my favourites. Not just because they are handy, but we can use them.

Why it works:

• Keeps attendees safe and comfortable
• Sunscreen and lip balm are pocket-sized but memorable
• Hats offer shade and brand exposure

3. Custom Umbrellas

This is New Zealand—we plan for sunshine, but we expect a bit of rain. That’s why we always recommend having some quality branded umbrellas on hand. Whether it’s a sudden shower at a market or blazing sun at a sporting event, people will grab them—and remember who gave it to them.

Why do we use them?

• Keeps your brand visible in any weather
• Great for staff, sponsors, or premium giveaways
• Large print area for eye-catching logos

4. Branded T-Shirts and Caps

Few things generate more visibility at an event than a sea of people wearing your logo. We’ve helped outfit volunteers, crew, and attendees with tees and caps that are not just comfortable but genuinely cool to wear. When people like the fit, they’ll keep wearing them—and that’s long-term advertising at its best.

Why do they work?

• Builds unity and makes your team stand out
• Turns attendees into walking billboards
• Often worn post-event, especially when the design hits the mark

5. Custom Tote Bags

Totes are our go-to when we want something affordable, reusable, and versatile. We’ve printed thousands of them for green expos, kids’ fairs, and arts festivals. People use them to carry everything else they’ve picked up—and when your logo is front and centre, that’s a win.

Why we rate them:

• Practical and reusable
• Lightweight but strong
• Great canvas for branding and messaging

6. Branded Power Banks

We live in a plugged-in world, and phones often run out of juice quickly at events, especially when people are snapping photos, checking maps, or posting to social media. Power banks have become one of our most appreciated giveaways. They’re compact, useful, and people will remember who kept them charged.

Why we recommend them for brands in New Zealand:

• Keeps us powered the whole day
• Puts your brand in your audience’s hands (literally)

7. Picnic Blankets

For outdoor concerts or movie nights in the park, anyone would love free picnic blankets. We’ve seen people lay them out with pride, and more importantly, take them home. The branding remains consistent for years, especially with high-quality options.

Why do we like them?

• Adds comfort to the event experience
• Large surface for your logo or artwork
• Great for giveaways or event merchandise

Final Thoughts

Outdoor events in Aotearoa are among the most vibrant, energetic, and community-driven experiences we’ve had the pleasure of working on. And time after time, the difference between blending in and standing out comes down to choosing the right promotional items—ones that are thoughtful, useful, and genuinely add value for your audience.

If you’re planning your next event and need help picking the best branded gear, we’re here to help. From Dunedin to Whangārei, we’ve worked with businesses big and small to make their mark in unforgettable ways. Let’s make your next outdoor event one to remember.

Get in touch with us today to talk ideas, custom options, or request a free quote.