7 gifts the man in your life will actually love this Christmas 

If beach days, social sports games, fishing trips and the occasional garage hang (never change, New Zealand) are on the horizon this summer, a chic and functional chilly bin is a great way to elevate your loved one’s status to certified Hang Hero.

You’re not giving the gift of a cooler, but the gift of ice-cold drinks at all future gatherings – and that is not to be sneezed at. 

Why he’ll love it:

• Ensures child drinks for 12 hours
• Stainless steel handles for easy portability 
• Fits 18 standard bottles or 30+ cans — 
• External Dimensions: 45w x 25d x 30h (cm)
• Weight: 5.8kg empty

If he’s still chucking his clothes and toiletries in his old university backpack for a weekend away, it’s time to gift him an elegant upgrade. This weekender bag from Sydney menswear label Staple Superior is 100 per cent leather.

The adjustable, removable shoulder strap makes for easy carrying, and the gold hardware will give him a touch of Harvey Specter energy. 

Why he’ll love it:

• Dimensions: H30cm x W65cm x D30cm 
• Top carry handles
• Top zip opening
• Lined; inner slip pockets
• Removable shoulder strap; adjustable length
• Gold-toned studs to base

Whether he’s an avid film buff or likes to fall asleep to a Simpsons episode, an annual subscription to his favourite streaming service is the gift that keeps on giving. With a Disney+ subscription, he’ll have access to some of the best television shows (including Emmy-winning Shogun and The Bear) along with the entire Marvel back catalogue.

Buy an annual subscription and receive 12 months for the price of 10 months— find out more on that here. 

Why he’ll love it:

• Up to four concurrent streams at once 
• Ad-free streaming  
• Up to Dolby Atmos audio quality 
• Up to 4K UHD & HDR video quality 

If the gift recipient has joined the masses and taken up a new trail running routine this year, gift him a fresh sneak that supports his newfound hobby. New Balance’s Fresh Foam x Hierro v8 is a dedicated trail shoe that will carry him effortlessly (well…somewhat) through New Zealand’s beautiful landscapes. The foam midsole technology ensures maximum comfort and support, even on uneven terrain. 

Why he’ll love it:

• Four colourways
• Durable and secure Vibram® outsole 
• Fresh Foam midsole technology  
• 60-day return policy

If the recipient has been working on his swing this year and often loses himself to a “quick” nine holes, fuel his passion with a golf-related gift and you’ll be a Christmas winner. You could of course opt for clubs, but that can get pricey, fast. 

Instead buy him sleek threads that will have him looking and feeling dapper on the course, especially if there’s a dress code. We love this silk navy polo shirt from The Iconic and these sharp grey shorts. Complete the look with a sleek black snapback cap, to protect his eyes from the sun. 

Why he’ll love them:

Shorts: 

• Lightweight material; wrinkle-resistant; smooth feel; some stretch; opaque
• Twin hip and back pockets

Polo: 

• 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex
• Quick-Dry Technology
• 4-Way Stretch
•  Small Front Chest Print
•  Internal Branded Taping
•  UPF50+

If a full-size barbeque and smoker setup is a little out of the budget, the  Ninja Woodfire 7-in-Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker is basically a full outdoor kitchen in one. Iy can grill, smoke and air fry, as well as bake, roast dehydrate and reheat. The cook can rustle up six steaks or 16 sausages, air fry up to 1.3kg of wings or smoke a 4kg whole brisket… and that’s only the beginning  

 So yes, it will essentially elevate his cooking game to elite chef levels. That’s a win for both him – and you, if you get to enjoy the resulting deliciousness. Read our full review here.  

Why he’ll love it:

• Easy to set up and use 
• Can set and forget, minimal attention required 
• A full range of settings you don’t get with dedicated smokers and barbecues
• Easily portable for camping, caravans or batches
• No need for charcoal, or propane gas and no danger of flare-ups
• Weather-resistant

In the land of Mordor where the shadows lie, you’ll find this intricate Tower of Doom, sure to satisfy fans of both Lord of the Rings and Lego. Shopping for a lover of both? It’s a gifting double-whammy.

With 5471 pieces and 10 minifigures –  including an impossibly cute Smeagol – you’re gifting hours of enjoyable Lego building time. Yes, it’s a little pricey. But remember,  if you’re buying it for your partner, you’re buying yourself hours where you can scroll on your phone uninterrupted. And that is priceless.

Why he’ll love it:

• For ages 18+ 
• 10-Minifigures
• Dimensions: H: 33″ (83cm)W: 18″ (45cm)D: 12″ (30cm)

---