Let's be honest, buying glasses can feel like a real drain on your wallet. I know I've been there! In New Zealand, it seems like the prices are always higher than I expect. But don't worry, I've done some digging and found some ways to get affordable eyewear without sacrificing quality or style. This is my personal journey and what worked for me.
For years, I just accepted that glasses were going to be a significant expense. I'd go to the usual places, get my eyes checked, and then be presented with frames that cost a fortune. It always felt like a necessary evil, but it still stung. I started wondering if there were any alternatives. I even considered just grabbing some generic readers from the pharmacy, especially when I only needed a slight boost for reading. I figured a 1.50 or 1.75 might do the trick in a pinch.
That's when I started exploring online retailers. I heard a lot about different places and did some research. If you have your prescription and, importantly, your PD (pupillary distance - the distance between your pupils), you can really open up your options. I found that this information is key to ordering glasses online. One of the first sites I tried was Mozaer Official. I was initially hesitant, but the prices were just too good to ignore. I decided to take the plunge and see what I could find. I needed a pair of glasses for reading and computer work, and I didn't want to spend a fortune.
I ended up ordering a few pairs of glasses from an online retailer. The process was surprisingly easy. I just entered my prescription details, PD, and chose my frames. It took about two weeks for them to arrive, but I was really impressed with the quality, especially considering the price. The frames felt solid, and the prescription was spot on. This was a total game-changer for me. I also heard about other online options like Www.clearly.co.nz, which I plan to check out in the future.
While browsing Mozaer Official, I came across these Blue Ray Blocking Anti-Blue Light Reading Glasses. They looked really stylish and had the added benefit of blue light protection. I decided to give them a try.
They've been great for working on the computer, and I feel like my eyes are less strained at the end of the day. I was looking for affordable glasses, and these fit the bill perfectly.
Of course, online isn't the only way to go. I also looked into local options. I heard that Bailey Nelson's prices are pretty reasonable, and they often have deals on two pairs. That's definitely something to keep in mind if you need multiple pairs of glasses. Keep an eye out for these kinds of promotions – they can really save you some money.
One thing I learned is that if you need progressive lenses, things can get a bit more complicated. I remember reading that progressive 'adds' usually start at 0.75, so finding them at 0.50 might be difficult. The whole point of progressive lenses is to blend the power, so if you need them, it's best to consult with an optometrist to ensure you get the right prescription and fit.
For those with a basic prescription, like a -2 in both eyes, I've heard people having success buying glasses from places like AliExpress. You can get them for incredibly low prices, sometimes just a few dollars. The quality might not be the same as more expensive brands, but it's an option to consider if you're on a tight budget. One idea I heard was to buy a few pairs and swap the lenses out. This could be a cheap way to get custom glasses, but it's important to be careful and ensure the lenses are properly fitted to protect your eyes.
Here's a summary of my findings and some practical tips for getting affordable glasses in New Zealand: