Any Kiwis here? Hardware advice?

[shaun@lemmy.world]

Pbtech is one of the major retailers. Their reputation is so-so (in terms of service level and dealing with warranties) but at least will give you a good benchmark on what you can buy and it's cost.

[deadbeef79000@lemmy.nz]

Common parts are available and easy to get, relatively cheaply.

Specialist parts are somewhat more difficult.

You may as well just bring your existing gear.

[regalpotoo@lemmy.world]

Take a look for yourself: https://www.pbtech.co.nz/

[rimu@piefed.social]

It's a developed country, lol

[dugmeup@lemmynsfw.com]

Stuff is expensive and supplies are much lower with a smaller selection outside US and China - Buy there. The smaller boxes don't really show up as computers as they don't look like traditional computers. Call them knockoff Alexa's or something to avoid the massive amount of tax on tech imports.

[sugar_in_your_tea@sh.itjust.works]

Yup. Paying $50 or whatever for an extra checked bag is probably worth it.

[kiwifoxtrot@lemmy.world]

Developed country out in the middle of nowhere. Prices are very high vs the US. Source: kiwi living in the states.

[unlearned9545@lemmy.world]

I didn't know they had inport taxes on desktops. Thanks for the heads up.

In my experience, typically import taxes are there to try and encourage buying local. Does New Zealand manufacturer their own electronics, or is this import tax just a way to levy money? Or is it to reduce environmental impact?

[dugmeup@lemmynsfw.com]

It's cause NZ's tech market is the equivalent of a mid sized uni in the US or China.

[kalr@meinreddit.com]

Decent amount of parts over here but they tend to be more expensive over here, however, consumers have more protection with decent warranties etc if that's a benefit for you.