FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
In-store / Stockist
Do you have a physical store?
House of ōwai does not have a standalone physical store. But we have stockist across Aotearoa New Zealand who stock our fragrances in-store. Availability and pricing may vary by location. Please note that promotions, sales, and bundles offered on our website do not apply to products sold through our stockists.
HAPA, CHRISTCHURCH
In store
111 Cashel Street
Christchurch Central 8011
TIA PRODUCTS, ROTORUA
In store
1276 Tutanekai Street
Rotorua 3010
NŌKU, NAPIER
In store
214 Emerson Street, Napier 4110
HERE.FOR.IT , TŪRANGI
In store
41 The Town Centre
Tūrangi 3334
WAIAPU ROAD, HASTINGS
Online
www.waiapuroad.com
JOURNEY AND CO, HAMILTON
Online + in store
www.journeyandco.co.nz
6 Princes Street, Hamilton Central 3204
GORDON’S PHARMACY, GISBORNE
Online + in store
www.gordonspharmacy.co.nz
1 Mangapapa Road, Gisborne 4010
TAIEA STUDIO, HASTINGS
In store
325 Heretaunga Street East
Hastings 4122
Orders, Shipping & Returns
My order arrived damaged, leaking, or incorrect. What should I do?
If your order arrives damaged, leaking, or incorrect, please contact us as soon as possible using the contact form at the bottom of our website. Include your order number and photos where applicable, and we will resolve the issue promptly.
When will my order be shipped?
All orders are packed and dispatched within 1–2 working days. Please allow an additional 1–3 working days for delivery once your order has been shipped.
Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?
Orders are processed quickly. If you need to make a change or cancel your order, please contact us immediately. Once an order has been shipped, changes or cancellations are no longer possible.
Do you offer local pick-up?
Yes, a local pick-up option is available and can be selected at checkout.
Do you ship internationally?
We are currently working on international shipping options. Updates will be shared on our website and social channels once available.
Where are you based?
House of ōwai is proudly based in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Do you offer Afterpay?
Yes, Afterpay is available at checkout.
Perfumes & Wear
What sizes are your perfumes available in?Our fragrances are available as 50ml full-size bottles, 10ml travel sprays, and 2ml samples so you can experience a scent before committing to a full bottle.
Are your fragrances gender neutral?
Yes. All House of ōwai fragrances are designed to be worn by any gender. Scent descriptions are intended as a guide only.
Why does a fragrance smell different on me than on someone else?
Perfume interacts with individual skin chemistry, including body temperature and natural oils. This means the same fragrance can smell slightly different from person to person.
Are your perfumes suitable for sensitive skin?
Our perfumes are made using high-quality ingredients. However, if you have sensitive skin or known allergies, we recommend ordering a sample first and reviewing the ingredients list before use. Always discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Care & Use
What’s the best way to apply perfume?
For best performance, apply perfume to moisturised skin. Spraying onto pulse points such as the wrists, neck, and behind the ears helps the fragrance project and last longer.
How should I store my perfume?
Store your perfume in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid leaving bottles in cars, bathrooms, or areas with frequent temperature changes.
Does my perfume need to settle after delivery?
Yes. Fragrance can become unsettled during transit. We recommend allowing your perfume to rest for 24–48 hours after delivery before wearing it so it can return to its true character.
How long will my perfume last once opened?Perfume is best used within 24 months of opening. Always keep the cap tightly closed when not in use.
How can I make my perfume last longer?Apply to moisturised skin and focus on pulse points. You may also lightly mist onto clothing, avoiding delicate fabrics, or layer over an unscented lotion to extend wear.
Returns & Exchanges
Can I return or exchange a perfume if I don’t like it?
For hygiene and safety reasons, we cannot accept returns or exchanges on opened perfumes. Each bottle is sealed with a tamper sticker. Once this seal is broken, the product cannot be returned. We recommend ordering samples before purchasing a full-size bottle.