Those heading into the CBD early were treated to a quiet, crowd-free experience and first pick of the deals on offer.

But by lunchtime the word had got out and shoppers swarmed into Wollongong Central, eager to be parted with their Christmas cash.

Sydney woman Amelia Riley, in Wollongong visiting family, was shopping in the CBD about 3pm.

‘‘I kind of wish I had come in earlier now, it’s really busy but there’s a good atmosphere, people aren’t pushy or anything,’’ she said.

The 19-year-old said she was glad for the opportunity to grab a few bargains and kill some time on an overcast afternoon.

‘‘I got a couple of gift vouchers that I really wanted to spend, I’ve just been to JB (Hi-Fi) to look at some headphones and now I’ll probably go and look at some clothes.’’

Big retailers Myer and David Jones were the first to open their doors at 7am on Saturday, while most other stores held off until their usual 8.30am or 9am opening time.

The slow start was in stark contrast to post-Christmas sales scenes in larger centres where shoppers queue for hours to get the jump when doors open.

Tens of thousands of shoppers descended on Stockland Shellharbour on Friday for the region’s only Boxing Day sales.

However, because Wollongong is considered metropolitan, most shops are banned from trading on Boxing Day.

Wollongong Central will trade from 9am to 6pm on Sunday, with free parking for shoppers who enter after 4pm.

Extended trading hours continue until January 2.