Five of the best last-minute Secret Santa gifts

Photo / Thinkstock

You've got a thrifty 10-buck budget and a random colleague to buy a gift for. Most people present a box of chocolates we all know they grabbed at the supermarket that morning. But we want to make you look good in front of your workmates, so have suggested some other options that show you care.

1: Cook up a storm

The way to everyone's heart is through their belly. Stewing up a festive chutney, relish or pickle will win them over. Or maybe try your hand at truffles. Don't forget to sterilise jars and always add ribbon and a handwritten tag explaining the contents. Such a wholesome, heartwarming gift.

2: Mosquito net

Photo / Unicef

Gifts that give are awesome, especially if you hardly know the guy you're buying for. Unicef has made a mark with its online ideas - for just $9 you can give an African family a mosquito net and protect them from being exposed to malaria.

3: Modern mixtape

Long gone are the days of recording your favourite tunes on to a cassette for your mates. But we think sharing music is still a great gesture. If your recipient is on Spotify, synch some playlists - summer hits, roadtrip essentials, New Year celebrations - just for them. This gift is more about time than money so make sure you invest the hours.

4: Cringey Christmas Wear

We love silly season gear. Sure, it might not be chilly enough to justify a beanie or socks during a Kiwi Christmas but surely your workmate will appreciate the gag. These silly season socks from boohoo.com will only set you back $5, or grab the pudding beanie for $10. Plus you can buy online to cut out most of the admin.

5: Pay it forward

If they're into books get 10 Amazon dollars for their kindle. If they're a beauty fiend send them some to spend on Flossie Concierge. Or if you know their favourite coffee shop near work, throw a cheeky tenner to the barista for a few days of free lattes. At least you know the dollars aren't wasted.

Read our previous Five of the Best columns to prepare you for summer:

• Five of the best makeup trends to try this summer
• Five of the best relaxing outdoor accessories
• Five of the best beach bag essentials
• Auckland: Five of the best spots to watch the sunset
• Five of the best bits for a barbecue