Aucklanders desperate for a reprieve from the summer heat have shopped The Warehouse in Downtown Auckland out of fans.

When asked how long fans have been out of stock, a shop assistant said: “Always”.

The sweltering start to the year has sent consumers flocking for paddling pools, sun protection and fans.

A Warehouse spokeswoman wouldn’t say what products have been selling fast, but a visit to the Downtown store showed fans had completely sold out.

A shop assistant suggested trying the outlet’s online store, where they were still available.

A spokeswoman said all summer-related products had been in high demand – “from pools and beach furniture, to sun protection and fans”. 

Ice blocks have been popular too, with Tip Top saying sales have been indicative of a “really great summer”. 

Minna Reinikkala of Tip Top said classic ice blocks Popsicles and Frujus had been “going gangbusters”.

“As people get out and about they are heading to the dairy or the service station and grabbing [an ice block] they can eat on the go,” she said.

Trumpets had also been a sought-after treat, she said.

– NZ Herald