Looking for a one-stop spot to pick up a new novel, school supplies, a puzzle for the bach, and a birthday card? That’s where paper plus shines. In New Zealand, Paper Plus is a familiar name for books, stationery, and gifts—both in-store and online. This guide explains what Paper Plus is, how it works, what you can buy, and how to choose well for your needs.
You’ll find plain-English tips, a quick comparison with other NZ retailers, step-by-step shopping advice, and answers to common questions.
What is
Paper Plus is a New Zealand retail brand known for selling books, stationery, office and school supplies, cards, puzzles, and gifts through a nationwide network of stores and an online shop. Many stores are locally owned and operated, so stock and services can vary by location.
Think of it as “paper plus much more”: fiction and non-fiction, diaries and planners, printer paper and pens, craft items, children’s books, calendars, and seasonal gifts.
How it works
Paper Plus operates through a network of branded stores across the country alongside an e‑commerce site. Shoppers can browse in person, order online for delivery, or use in‑store support to source specific titles or supplies.
Here’s the typical flow:
- Browse: Check shelves in-store or search the online catalogue to compare formats, prices, and availability.
- Order: Buy at the counter or add items to your online cart, then choose delivery options shown at checkout.
- Pickup and delivery: Availability and timeframes differ by location and stock. Delivery costs depend on order size, courier, and address type (urban or rural).
- Service and support: Store teams can usually advise on paper types, pens for specific tasks, kids’ reads by age, and gift suggestions.
Because stores are run locally, hours, event calendars (like author signings), and product ranges can differ. It pays to check your local store’s details before you go.
Types / examples
What you’ll typically find
- Books: New releases, bestsellers, children’s books, cookbooks, travel, biography, and local interest titles.
- Stationery: Notebooks, journals, planners, refills, pens and markers, diaries, folders, staplers, and desk gear.
- Paper: Copier paper (A4, A3), photo paper, specialty craft paper, envelopes, labels, and card stock.
- Gifts and cards: Greeting cards, wrap, puzzles, board games, plush toys, candles, and seasonal gifts.
- Education and office: Exercise books, highlighters, whiteboards, laminating pouches, binders, and filing.
- Art and craft: Sketch pads, colouring books, colouring pencils, brush pens, and craft kits.
Paper basics: quick examples
- Everyday printing: A4 80 gsm copier paper for drafts, schoolwork, and home printing.
- Sharper text and colour: A4 90–100 gsm for double‑sided prints and reports with fewer show‑through issues.
- Photos and visuals: Glossy or matte photo paper (measured in gsm) to match your printer’s specs.
- Crafts and cards: Heavier card (200–300+ gsm) for invitations, signage, and display work.
Comparison: paper plus and other NZ options
| Retailer | Best for | Shopping options | Strengths | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper Plus | Books, stationery, gifts in one place | Nationwide stores + online | Local advice, broad mix, easy gifting | Stock varies by store; delivery times depend on location |
| Whitcoulls | Books, gifts, games | Stores + online | Strong title range, gifting focus | Availability differs by branch |
| Warehouse Stationery | Office supplies, tech accessories | Stores + online | Business and home office breadth | Less emphasis on book curation |
| Mighty Ape | Online variety across many categories | Online only | Wide selection, fast urban delivery | No physical browsing; delivery fees apply |
| Independent bookshops | Curated reads, local favourites | Local stores + some online | Expert recommendations | Smaller stock; pricing varies |
Pros and cons
Pros
- Convenience: Books, stationery, and gifts under one roof or one cart.
- Local support: Many stores are locally run, with staff who know the community.
- Choice: From budget copier paper to premium journals and gift items.
- Gifting made easy: Cards, wrap, and present ideas in the same aisle.
Cons
- Stock differences: Not every branch carries the same items.
- Price competition: Global marketplaces can be cheaper on some products.
- Delivery variables: Rural delivery may cost more or take longer.
How to use or choose
Step-by-step: shopping with paper plus in NZ
- Find your nearest store or visit the Paper Plus website to browse current stock and categories.
- Compare options: Check sizes, formats (paper gsm, book formats), and price per unit where shown.
- Add to basket or take items to the counter. Confirm delivery, pickup availability, or special orders if needed.
- Review fulfilment details: Estimated delivery time and shipping fee vary by address.
- Keep your receipt or order confirmation for returns and warranties under New Zealand consumer law.
Choosing the right paper
- Printing and copying: 80–90 gsm A4 for everyday jobs. Go 100 gsm for double‑sided or sharper documents.
- Presentations: Smooth, heavier paper (100–120 gsm) improves print clarity and feel.
- Photos and visuals: Use photo‑rated paper matched to your printer (inkjet vs laser) for best results.
- Crafts: Card stock 200 gsm and above; look for acid‑free options for keepsakes.
- Sustainability: Consider recycled content, FSC or PEFC certifications, and chlorine‑free bleaching where noted.
Picking pens, notebooks, and essentials
- Pens and markers: Choose fine tips for detailed notes; medium tips for everyday writing; pigment ink for smudge‑resistant use.
- Notebooks and journals: Wire‑bound for lay‑flat notes; thread‑bound for durability; dot‑grid for bullet journalling.
- Planners and diaries: Weekly layouts for overview; daily pages for detailed scheduling.
- Folders and filing: Lever arch for bulk; ring binders for modular sets; add dividers and tabs to stay organised.
Books and gifts: smart picks
- New releases vs backlist: New releases are great for gifting; backlists offer value and more choice.
- Kids’ reads: Match age bands and interests; browse in-store for quick flip‑throughs.
- Puzzles and games: Check piece counts and difficulty; consider family‑friendly themes for gatherings.
- Cards and wrap: Keep a neutral set on hand for last‑minute events.
FAQ
Is Paper Plus a New Zealand brand?
Yes. Paper Plus is a New Zealand retail brand with stores around the country and an online shop.
Can I order from paper plus online?
Yes. You can browse and purchase online, then choose the delivery option available for your address. Timeframes and fees vary by location and order size.
Do all stores carry the same stock?
No. Product ranges differ by store. If you need a specific title or item, check availability online or contact your local branch before visiting.
Does paper plus offer click and collect?
Availability depends on store and stock. Check the option shown at checkout or contact your local store to confirm what they offer.
What about rural delivery in NZ?
Rural delivery often takes longer and may cost more than urban addresses. Check estimated timeframes at checkout.
How do returns work?
Return policies can differ by store and product type. Keep your receipt or order confirmation, and remember purchases are protected under the Consumer Guarantees Act.
Can paper plus help with back‑to‑school shopping?
Many New Zealand book and stationery retailers support back‑to‑school needs. Check your local Paper Plus store or the website for what’s available in your area.
Are there sustainable paper options?
Yes. Look for recycled content or certifications such as FSC or PEFC on product descriptions and packaging.
Can stores order in specific books?
Often, yes—subject to publisher availability and lead times. Ask in-store or online about special orders.
What’s the best value when buying paper?
Compare price per ream (or per 100 sheets) and match the gsm to your use. Buying multi‑packs can be cheaper if you print often.
Bottom line
Paper Plus brings together books, stationery, paper, and gifts in an easy, local way for New Zealanders. If you want to browse shelves, get advice, and pick up everything from a novel to printer paper in one run—or order it all online—paper plus is a straightforward choice. Check your nearest store or the website for current ranges, services, and delivery options, then shop with confidence.


