The IT Bear’s Buzz Buy Guide: What’s Hot, What’s Not & The Tech We Took on Holiday 🎄🐻📱
Kia ora, tech lovers!
I’m writing this surrounded by screens, halfway through a coffee, dreaming of the Far North.
Usually, the first hour of my holiday is spent crawling behind a dusty TV trying to find the Wi-Fi router password or frantically Googling "what to do when it rains."
This year, I decided to fix that.
As many of you know, when I’m not wearing my "IT Bear" hat, I’ve been building a new platform called KoruStay. Why? Because I wanted a holiday where I didn't have to think.
When I head to the bach this Christmas, I won't be digging for passwords. I’ll be scanning a QR code on the fridge, and boom—everything is right there on my phone.
The Game-Changer: Koru Compass I’m most excited to test our new AI feature, Koru Compass, in the wild. It doesn't just list local spots; it builds a full, custom itinerary. It even checks the weather forecast—so if it sees rain coming, it automatically swaps the beach day for a local art gallery and a hidden gem of a café.
Best of all? Unlike generic AI that sends you to a bakery that closed in 2023, Koru Compass uses real local data. No hallucinations. Just good coffee.
It got me thinking: if your accommodation is this smart, your Christmas gifts should be too.
So, here is The IT Bear’s guide to the Hottest Tech to take on your summer getaway (alongside KoruStay, of course).
🔥 WHAT'S HOT (The "Getaway Essentials" List)
1. The Ultimate Rainy Day Saver: Nintendo Switch 2 Verdict: SCORCHING HOT 🔥🔥🔥
Even Koru Compass can't stop the rain, but the Nintendo Switch 2 can definitely save the day when it arrives. It finally launched this year, and it is the perfect bach companion.
Why it’s a Buzz Buy: The screen is bigger and brighter (perfect for sharing), and it plays all your old Switch games.
Pro Tip: Hook it up to the bach TV for a Mario Kart tournament when the weather packs in.
Where to find it: PB Tech, Mighty Ape
2. The "Peace & Quiet" Enforcer: Sony WH-1000XM6 Verdict: HOT 🔥🔥
Love your family, but need a break from them during the 4-hour drive north? The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones are your best friend.
Why it’s a Buzz Buy: The noise cancellation is scarily good. You can be in a car full of excited kids and feel like you're in a zen garden. Plus, the battery lasts long enough to get you from Cape Reinga to Bluff.
Where to find it: JB Hi-Fi, Noel Leeming
3. The Memory Maker: DJI Neo Drone Verdict: HOT 🔥
If Koru Compass sends you to that secret lookout, you want to capture it properly. The DJI Neo is the drone for people who hate flying drones.
Why it’s a Buzz Buy: It takes off from your palm, follows you automatically using AI, and lands right back in your hand. No remote needed. It’s perfect for getting that epic "walking on the beach" shot without crashing into a pohutukawa.
Where to find it: Ferntech
❄️ WHAT'S NOT (Leave these at home)
1. Subscription-Only Gadgets Verdict: ICE COLD ❄️ I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: avoid "AI Pins" or smart devices that need a monthly fee just to work. You're already paying for Spotify, Netflix, and your holiday—you don't need a subscription for your lapel pin.
2. "Smart" Toothbrushes Verdict: NOT 🚫 Nobody needs an app to tell them they missed a molar. Keep the bathroom low-tech this Christmas.
🏡 A Special Note for Bach Owners
If you're reading this and you own a holiday home, do yourself (and your guests) a favour: Check out my other project, KoruStay.
As a tech guy, nothing ruins my relaxation mode faster than a confusing instruction manual from 1998. KoruStay puts everything—Wi-Fi, house rules, and that brilliant Koru Compass itinerary planner—into a slick digital guide.
It avoids the AI "hallucinations" of open/closed times and connects guests with the real local community. It’s the best "tech upgrade" you can give your property without buying a single gadget.
👉 See what we’ve built at: www.korustay.co.nz (Launch Deal: Use code TRYKORU for a $1 trial)
💡 Still Stuck for Gifts?
If you need help finding the perfect tech for your family, The IT Bear is here to help. The IT Bear's Buzz Buy Service takes the stress out of shopping. We hunt down the best deals, check the specs, and make sure you're buying tech that actually works—so you can get back to the BBQ.
👉 Find your next Buzz Buy here: www.theitbear.nz/services
Meri Kirihimete, safe travels, and may your itinerary always be sunny! 🎅🐻
Hashtags: #NZChristmas #TechGuide2025 #TheITBear #KoruStay #BuzzBuy #Switch2 #SummerTech #BachLife #KiwiHoliday