Top Five Stripey Caterpillar NZ Gifts for Nature Lovers on Father’s Day

So here’s the thing... I don’t really agree with celebrating 'Father’s Day' in the traditional sense. 

Don't get me wrong. I do think it’s a super important day to show appreciation for all the strong male role models out there. I just don’t think that has to mean only dads.

Of course, dads are really important if you are lucky enough to have a really good one. But it's the brothers, grandads, neighbours, mentors, random men (not the dodgy kind) at the market who stop by and chat to me and inspire me to carry on doing what I do, that I choose to celebrate on Father's Day. They  appear in your life in all shapes, sizes, and ages, but what sets them apart is their kindness, respect and willingness to accept me quirks and all! They teach me things without making it feel like school. They notice the little stuff. They remind me that even when the world feels a bit upside down, there’s still goodness to be found and people out there willing to show it, even though I am not their daughter and they are not my father.

So, if you’re looking for meaningful 'Great Male Role-Model Day' (aka Father's Day) gifts, here are my top five picks from Stripey Caterpillar. All designed here in NZ by me, all connected to nature, and all way cooler than a pair of socks.

1. The Mighty Mug – NZ Bird Edition

Coffee, tea, or in the case of my little brother hot chocolate with extra marshmallows… whatever keeps the day running. My NZ Bird Mug is a favourite, featuring bold artwork of some of NZ's most loved feathered friends. It’s practical, colourful, and a daily reminder of the wild side of Aotearoa. It shouts out 'I'm manly, but caring' vibes and shows that real men care about NZ's unique bird life and aren't embarrassed to show it!

2. Giant Wall Canvas – NZ Flora in Bloom

Sometimes you just need to go big. Our NZ Flora Canvas bursts with different shades of green and brings the beauty of the bush right indoors. It’s the kind of NZ gift that totally transforms a wall and makes a room feel alive. Perfect for the guy who appreciates NZ nature but maybe doesn’t have time to stop and smell the pōhutukawa. A subtle statement piece perfect for any room without totally overtaking it. Being one of only 15 printed makes it something to grab a hold of and look after.

3. Greeting Card – The Sheep Surprise

Sure, you can buy a plain old card at the supermarket… but where’s the fun in that? My Sheep Greeting Card is cheeky, fun, and very Kiwi. The best part? You get to fill it with your own words. Sometimes (or probably I should say always) what you write matters more than the gift itself. You can buy it on its own, but even better is to buy it in a pack of five. Then you can share your appreciation (and these lovely hand-drawn greeting cards) with all the great role-models in your life. Let's celebrate everyone!

4. Art Print – Butterfly Heart, any size

For something truly special, theButterfly Heart Print makes a stunning gift. Bright, detailed, and full of meaning, it’s one of those pieces that turns heads and makes people smile. A great choice for anyone who values creativity, colour, and a little bit of symbolism. This was my favourite theme to draw and closest to my heart, which makes it super meaningful, especially paired with a hands-on experience voucher (coming soon) for your whole family to enjoy together! 

5. Kiwiana Everything

From quirky mugs to nostalgic prints, my Kiwiana range celebrates everything that makes New Zealand unique and I think Simon and smile everytime I look at it. Think baches, BBQs, gumboots, sheep, and ice creams on the beach. Whatever you pick, it’s bound to spark a smile and a memory. You could even use a Kiwiana Flatlay print as a kind of challenge/goal setting poster, ticking off each item as you set memories. Oh hey, that's actually a really good idea for next year!

Wrapping it Up

At the end of the day, Father’s Day or the even cooler 'Great Male Role-Model Day' is just one reminder on the calendar. Gratitude doesn’t need a date. Celebrating the men who show us what respect, kindness, and encouragement look like is timeless.

I’m not here to claim I am perfect or living the perfect life and others are not. I’m just here to wonder out loud. And maybe make you wonder too.

So… here’s to the mugs that get filled, the walls that get brighter, and the role models that make life better.

What’s the best Father’s Day gift you’ve ever given? Let me know in the comments!

SHOP the whole collection here: Stripey Goodness

Milly 🌿