Re:START welcomes Clash

Former Christchurch man Nick Paulsen is returning to the city to set up his new store, Clash, in the central city Re:START container mall.

While awaiting some finessing of its fitout, Clash has opened their doors in the weekend (October 27-28) just in time for the first anniversary celebrations of Re:START.

Paulsen is no stranger to the retail trade, having previously co-ordinated Huffer’s move from wholesale into retail and he earlier worked with Amazon’s surf stores. 

“We aim to be New Zealand’s premier street wear boutique, and want to appeal to a broad range of fashion conscious customers. We don’t have a specific age in mind that we’re targeting – we stock clothes that will suit a big range of people.”

Paulsen says Clash’s labels include several new to New Zealand, including Baracuta – famous for the classic men’s original Harrington jacket popularised by the likes of Elvis Presley and Ryan O’Neal in iconic 1960s TV soap Peyton Place. While Baracuta dates back to 1937, it is joined by newer labels exclusive to Clash such as Tuesday Night Band Practice, MERC London, and LONG Clothing (UK); Circlepark, Zoologie Nick Campbell Eyewear (Australia); Modstrom (Denmark); and Bing Bang (New York). Clash is one of only two stores in New Zealand, who are selling the Dr Martins X LIBERTY shoe collaboration.

Paulsen opened its first store at Newmarket, Auckland, in June, and has since been looking for a Christchurch location.

“We eventually want to expand around New Zealand, but I was particularly keen to establish in Christchurch as soon as possible. I’ve been away from the city for seven years – living in Auckland and travelling – but I still have a large number of extended family and friends here.”

Paulsen says good product is only part of the equation and is acutely aware of the importance of service. 

“I think fantastic service and a unique shopping experience is so important for customers. We want to give people an experience every time they visit. We love retail and we love people. I think Clash is a combination of the best of both."

And what about the name Clash?

“We love the whole 1960s rock culture idea. Clash takes inspiration from underground political movements, punk music and street art. We’re gritty, urban and confident.”

Nick Paulsen at  Clash’s Newmarket store in Auckland

For further information:

Nick Paulsen, 021 599 004, nick@clash.co.nz

Paul Lonsdale, 021 223 3963, paul@ccba.co.nz