Frequently Asked Questions
BUYING GEAR
Is it cheaper to buy second hand gear than rent in Wanaka?
For most visits of three days or more, buying second hand and selling before you leave works out cheaper than renting — often significantly so. A second-hand ski jacket might cost $80–$150. Wear it for a week, sell it back, and your net cost could be $20–$40. Daily rental for the same jacket would likely cost more than that.
Can I buy gear online before my trip?
Yes. Browse our full range at sportscircle.co.nz and purchase in advance. Your gear will be ready and waiting for collection when you arrive in Wanaka — no queues, no guesswork.
What condition is the gear in?
All gear is inspected before listing. We don't accept damaged items or gear that requires repair, unless this is explicitly stated in the listing, so everything on our floor and online meets a minimum quality standard. Item condition is noted in each listing.
Do you sell helmets and safety gear?
We don't accept helmets, ropes, or other safety-critical gear as consignments due to the difficulty of verifying their history. Check our current stock online — we may carry new safety gear from time to time.
What if the gear doesn't fit or isn't right?
We recommend checking sizing guides carefully before purchasing online. If you're unsure, it's worth waiting until you arrive in Wanaka to try things on in store.
SELLING & CONSIGNING GEAR
How do I consign gear with Sports Circle?
Drop your gear off in- store in good working condition. We'll photograph it, price it using our pricing tool, and list it in-store and on our website. You'll receive an email with the listed price and can get in touch if you'd like to discuss it.
How much will I get for my gear?
Your payout depends on the sale price and whether you choose cash or store credit. Payouts range from 50–70% of the sale price in cash, or 60–84% as store credit.
When do I get paid?
Store credit is available immediately after a sale. Cash payouts are processed every Monday for sales from the previous week.
Can I consign gear from overseas?
Yes — you don't need to be in New Zealand to receive your payout. Drop your gear off before you leave Wanaka and we'll transfer your cash payout directly once it sells.
What happens if my gear doesn't sell?
Items are listed for at least six weeks. After that, we may reduce the price gradually until it sells or reaches your minimum price if you have set one. If it doesn't sell, you can choose to donate it or have it set aside for collection. If collecting, you have 14 days to arrange pickup.
Can I set a minimum price for my gear?
Yes. Let us know your minimum acceptable price when you drop your gear off or when you receive the pricing notification and we won't go below it during any price reductions.
What gear do you accept?
We accept most sports gear in good working condition. We don't accept:
- Damaged items requiring repair
- Safety gear (helmets, ropes, etc.)
- Worn-out clothing
We prefer in-season gear, but if you're leaving Wanaka we may accept out-of-season items to sell the following season.
VISITING WANAKA
Should I bring my own gear to Wanaka or buy when I arrive?
If you're flying, leaving your gear at home and picking up second-hand gear in Wanaka can save you significant luggage fees — and the hassle of travelling with bulky ski or bike gear. Shop online before you arrive so your gear is ready on day one, or browse in store when you get here.
What if my kids have outgrown their gear from last trip?
Drop off last season's gear when you arrive — we'll sell it while you're here. Put the payout toward this season's size. It's a much better deal than letting it sit in a wardrobe at home.
Do you offer gear for summer and winter activities?
Yes — we stock gear year-round across snow sports, cycling, hiking, water sports, and more. Stock changes constantly, so check online or visit in store to see what's available.
I'm only in Wanaka for a few days — is it still worth buying rather than renting?
For some gear, yes. A wetsuit, a pair of hiking poles, or a few extra layers can be picked up cheaply and sold before you leave. For high-value gear like skis, it depends on the trip length — our staff are happy to help you figure out what makes sense.
Have a question that's not answered here? Get in touch at info@sportscircle.co.nz or pop in to see us instore.
