More than 6000 passengers from Ovation of the Seas and Golden Princess cruise ships flooded into the city, joined by throngs of locals vying for the best deals.
H&J Smith sales manager Desiree Miller said staff at the central Dunedin department store had anticipated a busy day, as it was running its usual Boxing Day sale, but the numbers through the doors had exceeded expectations.
Among them were many cruise ship passengers, who were buying clothing, toys and anything with a New Zealand connection, she said.
''They're buying throughout the store. They want to bring something back for their loved ones.
''They are asking for New Zealand brands ... and things that have a bit of Kiwiana to them.''
Staff had even got to know frequent cruise ship passengers who returned regularly to the department store, Mrs Miller said.
Down the road in George St, Brent Weatherall said his namesake jewellery store had a steady turnover yesterday.
But it was nothing compared with last Saturday when there was another cruise ship in town and the Shania Twain concert that evening, which was the biggest day in his store's 16-year history.
The store's turnover this month was also at a record high, and he was optimistic about the city's future.
''Everything is positive in town.
''Property prices have gone up and the weather was good to us near the end there.
''Bring on 2019.''
Mr Weatherall said his store did not offer Boxing Day specials, which he felt did a disservice to customers.
''I think it upsets people ... I put all my customers on a level playing field.''
