It seems Christmas was only a moment ago, yet back-to-school time has already rolled around again. With my son William gearing up for NCEA and daughter Issey starting at intermediate, I’m already dreading the bills for books and accessories. Some of the goodies on this page can be found at bargain-basement prices, while in other cases you might wish to pay a bit more for top-quality items.
BAG A BARGAIN
Let your kids choose their favourite pattern from the creative kids lunch-bag range at Farmers. They’re priced from $9.99 to $14.99 each.
CASE CLOSED
Mambo small neoprene pencil cases, $10 each from The Warehouse.
JOT IT DOWN
Jotz stationery from Whitcoulls is absolutely perfect for heading back to school in style! The fairies range is perfect for young ladies, boys will love the robot collection and the headphones selection is ideal for teens. A core colour range of pink, purple, blue and black is also available to supplement the printed story collection. Products range in price from $1.49 to $34.99.
BOOK IT IN
Encourage your child to personalise their books and stationery so it doesn’t get lost. Robot book plates by Cico are $14.99 per set. Available from Bookreps.
BOX OF TRICKS
Kids can keep all their bits and pieces safely in one place with a brightly coloured divided box, $29.95, or utensil holders $8.95 each. Both from Parnell Agencies.
PACK IT IN
Send the back-to-school blues packing with a 25-litre Cotinga Pack, $139.98 from Kathmandu. Featuring a front pocket with an organiser panel, enough room for a 38cm laptop, dual compartments and inner and outer mesh pockets, it will keep your kids’ school gear tidy and secure. It also features a daisy chain for attaching a bike light.
SAFE KEEPING
Top: Keep lunch and snacks in place with Tupperware’s Sandwich Keeper plus – $36 each. This Tupperware mug keeps drinks hot or cold – $35.40 each.
GOOD TO GO
Tupperware’s Hot Food On-The-Go features a 1.5-litre microwaveable bowl with a knife, fork and spoon $71.90 per set.
ALL SET
Boys’ Extreme Elite backpack – five-piece set $25 from The Warehouse.
