Where to find great graduation gifts and celebrate in the city centre

After many years of hard work, university students across the country take part in capping ceremonies to celebrate the completion of their studies. When it comes to looking for something celebratory or sentimental to gift a loved one to mark the occasion, knowing what to get can be hard. Thankfully the city centre is full of great stores to make shopping all that easier. 

Lotus Pearl Earrings | $149.50 | Creative & Brave, Commercial Bay, 7/21 Queen St

The Lotus Pearl Earrings from Creative and Brave are a beautiful and thoughtful gift idea to congratulate someone special on their graduation day. The stunning earrings are sterling silver and have a classy chandelier-style which will give any outfit an extra pop. To top it off, they are also decorated with a fresh-water pearl in the centre. The lotus is a symbol of many things, including regeneration and rebirth, rising above despite challenges and growth and wisdom, making it a beautiful and meaningful gift for someone graduating.

Mipo Fountain pen | $64.50 | Smith and Caughey's, 253-261 Queen St

This playful and colourful fountain pen is made in Germany by CAMPO MARZIO, a brand known for infusing fashion into their writing products. This gift is ideal for any academic in your life who will no doubt benefit from such a stylish instrument they can take through their professional career.

Circle of Life pendant | $44 | Jade Centre, Lower Albert Street

Give them the special gift of a pounamu to mark the momentous occasion. Jade Centre has a range of traditional carvings to choose from, including the circle which depicts the circle of life, giving harmony and unity and representing the notion that our lives provide limitless opportunities to achieve our goals.

Becoming by Michelle Obama | $55 | Unity Books, 19 High Street

Unity Books is a great place to head to when looking for a gift for any occasion. When it comes to a graduation present, the store is full of inspiring, motivational and thought-provoking reads like Michelle Obama's Becoming, exploring the former First Lady's roots and how she found her voice as well as her time in the White House, her public health campaign, and her role as a mother. Just ask the knowledgeable staff next time you're in store and they'll help you find the perfect read. 

Moet and Chandon gold bottle 1500ml | $219.90 | Smith and Caughey's, 253-261 Queen St

Nothing quite says celebration like a large bottle of bubbly goodness! This striking bottle of champagne can take pride of place on the drinks trolley or in the office long after it's been popped and enjoyed. 

Imagination Gin | $88 | Cahn’s Wine and Spirits, 10 O’Connell St

The team at Cahn’s know their spirits, so head on over and take a look for yourself. For a playful liquid gift, we’ve chosen the Imagination Gin, triple-distilled at the site of the original Tuatara Brewery on the Kapiti coast, where founders Chris and Simon spent 2 years refining their craft. It's a symbol of good things taking time and tastes delicious! 

Round black cufflinks | $59 | Rembrandt, 41 Shortland St 

Cufflinks make a great graduation gift, and these round black cufflinks from Rembrandt are simple yet strong, complimenting any suit while being sure to make a statement. A gift that keeps on giving, the receiver will remember their graduation day every time they wear them, be it on a special occasion, to work in the office or even to a future job interview!