New Zealand has been struggling with a massive retention issue when it comes to skilled labour. Productivity is down, and industries that once thrived are now but a shadow of their former selves. One shining example from our past is Crown Lynn, once the largest...
McAlpine
McAlpine Prestcold Jug
$108.00
The Crown Lynn McAlpine Prestcold Jug is one of New Zealand’s most recognisable pieces of mid-century ceramic design. Originally created for McAlpine Prestcold refrigerators in the 1950s and 1960s, these iconic water jugs became a familiar sight in Kiwi homes and are now highly sought after by collectors.
Today, Crown Lynn Kiwi continues this heritage by producing the next generation of the McAlpine Prestcold Jug using the original mould, celebrating one of New Zealand’s most enduring ceramic designs.
Whether displayed as a statement piece or used as a functional water jug, it brings timeless New Zealand design into the modern home.
View the other amazing Crown Lynn or Legacy Range here
All sizes/weights are approximate due to firing variations.
Sizes (cm): 19 (L) x 19 (W) x 9 (H) – Sizes (in): 7.5 (L) x 7.5 (W) x 3.5 (H)
Weight: 0.9 Kg (31.7 oz)
HISTORY
Crown Lynn McAlpine Prestcold Jug
A Piece of New Zealand History
When James McAlpine introduced Prestcold refrigerators to New Zealand in 1948, every new fridge included a specially designed Crown Lynn ceramic jug. Built for everyday use, these durable jugs quickly became part of daily life in thousands of New Zealand households.
Designed with clean Art Deco and modernist lines, the McAlpine Prestcold Jug is admired for its elegant proportions, comfortable handle and practical shape. Today, original vintage examples—particularly rare colour variations—remain highly collectable and can achieve impressive prices at auction. Learn more about the heritage.
Continuing the Crown Lynn Legacy
This contemporary edition honours the original while continuing the tradition of New Zealand ceramic craftsmanship. Produced by Crown Lynn Kiwi, it forms part of the ongoing legacy of the original Crown Lynn factory and the skilled ceramic makers who have preserved these iconic designs for generations.
Available Colours
Choose from a range of classic Crown Lynn-inspired finishes:
- Ivory (Matt White)
- Turquoise
- Green
- Pink
Limited-edition glaze finishes are also released from time to time, inspired by Crown Lynn’s original glaze experimentation.
Specifications
19 × 19 × 9 cm, approx. 0.9 kg
Please note: All sizes and weights are approximate due to the ceramic firing process.
YOUR STORIES
The Golden Age of Crown Lynn Pottery
Described as classic kiwiana, Crown Lynn pottery was a popular household feature in the 1960s.
A beginners guide to collecting the nation’s beloved crockery
According to those in the know, there are three kinds of Crown Lynn collectors: the nostalgic buyer, the “mid range” collectors, and the big guns, serious collectors.
Tell us your stories
Share its unique history and what it means to you with us here, and your piece could feature on this page









