Internet bargains beckon the Kiwi buyer

Apple iPhone 3G 8GB sells with Vodafone NZ for $899 and the 16GB version sells on Amazon for $492.72 plus $17 shipping. Photo / Supplied

There has never been a better time to bag a bargain through US internet stores with the Kiwi dollar at record levels against the greenback.

New Zealand consumers can save hundreds of dollars by shopping at international online sites such as Amazon.com and Ebay.

Products such as the iPhone 3G retail here for $899, but if the consumer looked farther afield they would be able to pick it up for $492.72 plus $17 postage.

On Friday the Kiwi was worth US 81 cents, with the greenback falling further after weaker than expected US consumer spending and housing data.

AUT associate marketing professor Dr Margaret Craig-Lees said tech-savvy consumers should make the most of the exceptional exchange rate.

"If they are not sure how long it will last, they might engage in pre-Christmas shopping. If they've wanted to replace something now is the time."

Consumer New Zealand chief executive Suzanne Chetwin warned that consumers should beware hidden costs, such as credit card fees.

Retailers Association chief executive John Albertson said Kiwi retailers faced tough competition from international online stores. He urged shoppers to remember purchases from international online stores weren't covered by the Consumers Guarantees Act.