Maria is the owner-operator of Eclectic Antique Centre and has been in the trade for over 30 years.

Maria along with her husband Shane, started their journey in Timaru in the 90’s from their home and gradually progressed into a store.

Back in the day, they mostly attended garage sales, auctions and anywhere they could find saleable items.

They moved to Nelson with their two boys (who have always been a part of their business), in the early 2000’s and started with a stall at the Nelson market.

They again progressed to smaller stores and then into their current location in the hub of the Nelson CBD where they have been for 15-plus years.

They have developed a respected reputation and often by word of mouth, purchasing Estate lots and individual quality items from clients both in Nelson and further afar.

 

Maria says it is all about the thrill of the chase in hunting out great pieces of the past.

The Eclectic range includes Victorian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Mid Century and Retro pieces to the odd and unusual. 

Eclectic really is a reflection of its name and is often called an Antique Supermarket.

 

In 2020 Maria’s husband Shane passed away and has had a huge impact on the dynamics of the business.

He was the furniture restorer, upholster, and IT Guy. He did the pick-ups and deliveries just to name a few.

So after 30-plus years of working together, Maria says that they all have had to adapt to these changes.

"I have a great team working with me and we all chip in and do what has to be done."

 

The team puts out new stock daily which is sourced from estate lots, auctions, road trips and from clients who bring it in-store.

The thing about this line of business is wherever you go, your eyes are looking for saleable pieces to add to the inventory.