Since the beginning of mankind, man has woven grasses, straw, twigs and branches to create baskets. Early uses for the basket were to store dry goods and to transport food and materials. In biblical times, larger baskets were used for transporting people and goods on the water. Always a useful, sturdy container, it was a tool of man for tens of thousands of years.
The First American Gift Baskets
When the Mayflower landed on the shores of America, the European settlers were greeted with the first gift baskets. Dried fish and meats, corn, beans and other vegetables were presented to the settlers, by the American Indians, to welcome their arrival. In the 1700 and 1800’s, individuals created baskets full of fruits, foods and candies for Christmas, Easter and other holidays. Today’s Gift Baskets New Zealand are crafted to the individual recipients tastes for holidays, special occasions or “just because” gift giving. Fruits, foods and candies now share space in gift baskets with “useable” items for the baby, the bath, the kitchen or for play. The baskets or boxes themselves are designed to be creatively used as well by the recipient once they’ve enjoyed the contents of the gift basket.
What to consider when buying a gift basket?

Baby Gift Baskets
These popular gift baskets provide the new parents clothing, towels, blankets, soap and shampoo for the new baby. The new arrival can expect to receive rattles, books and other baby items for them to play with.
Fruit Baskets
Always a great gift, these baskets are loaded with delicious apples, pears, other seasonal fruits and nuts. They are perfect for any occasion, and as people look to provide a healthy gift, these baskets are becoming more popular.
Gourmet Gift Baskets
The “old reliable” in gift baskets for years, these gifts traditionally have been filled with gourmet chocolates and nuts. More recently, these baskets are customized with gourmet coffee, tea and chocolate drinks; Italian foods stocked for entire dinner; sauces and rubs for the barbeque.
Corporate Gift Baskets
This gift basket category is becoming more popular with each passing year. Businesses send them to their clients to say “thank you” or to say “happy holidays”. Many companies present them to their employees in recognition of a job well done, for anniversaries, for the arrival of new baby or for a holiday gift.
Birthday Gift Baskets
Here you will have a wide selection to choose from. In gift baskets for children, you will find a variety containing candy, toys, books and gift certificates. For the women, spa items, chocolates, candies, gardening items and her favorite beverage to relax with can be found. For the man, in addition to traditional candy and nuts, sports, cigar, cooking and barbeque gift baskets are crafted to meet his personal tastes and interests. Gift baskets provide numerous and unique ways to say “Happy Birthday”.
Condolences Gift Baskets
When heartfelt sympathy is due, consider sending to the home of family or friends a condolences gift basket. Are you looking to send a whole meal? Or snacks and treats? Send them a gift to convey your sympathy and let them know that they are in your thoughts.
Gift Baskets for Her
You want to spoil her “just because of who she is”. Look for a gift that she would truly enjoy. Aromatherapy, a spa gift, a mug of her favorite coffee or tea or gourmet chocolates are unique and “just for her”. Reusable items such as candle holders, bath sponges, or a coffee mug make the gift a lasting memory.
Gift baskets For Him
What are your man’s interests? A gift basket comes in many varieties. Does he barbeque or enjoy being a gourmet chef? A sports themed basket for football, baseball golf or fishing is appropriate. Or does he like to share a gourmet chocolate or food on a quiet evening? Treat his tastes with a gift especially for him.
Get Well Gift Baskets
Sometimes flowers or balloons just won’t do. A soup meal, a game book, snacks or a mug of hot tea fits the bill. A gift basket sends your get well wishes in a unique way. For hospital deliveries, make sure your recipient is still a “guest”.
Luxurious Spa Gift Baskets
Pamper that someone special with a spa at home. Bath gels, body lotions, loofahs, creams and even a gourmet snack or chocolate are a great idea. These gift baskets turn your home into their private spa retreat.
