If you’re looking for the perfect present to celebrate a milestone, special occasion and more, these big birthday gifts for kids won’t disappoint.
When it comes to milestone birthdays, finding the perfect gift can feel like a big deal. Whether it’s their first swing, a playhouse for endless adventures, or something to fuel their creative side, these gifts are all about celebrating memorably. For those searching for something extra special, we’ve gathered some of the best big-ticket items available to buy in New Zealand. Check out our favourite “big” birthday gifts below for a little inspo, and a few special perks.
Read more: Where to Donate Baby Items and Children’s Clothing in Christchurch
Big birthday gifts for kids:
Connetix 106 Piece Ball Run Pack
One of the most talked about toys of the year, this is a solid choice for kids who like to build and explore. Connetix 106 Piece Ball Run Pack from Little Reef and Friends not only encourages kids to create different ball runs, test how gravity works, and learn through play but is a hands-on and fun way to understand basic physics. Keeping playtime simple, creativity and problem-solving are encouraged, without making things complicated. If you don’t already have a standard pack of Connetix at home, we’d encourage you to invest in one first so that you have plenty of tiles to work with!
How much: $185.99
Shop here.
Little Reef and Friends Solvej Toddler Swing
The Baby & Toddler Swing from Solvej is a beautifully handcrafted piece made to order right here in New Zealand. Designed to last, this swing is built to grow with your swing-loving little, converting from a baby swing to a toddler swing as they get bigger. If you’re looking for that exceptional gift, know that these are made with the utmost care. Solvej swings look beautiful in your playroom or garden and support local rural communities, making this a product you can feel good about for years to come. We’re obsessed with this Autumn Rust colourway.
How much: $259.99
Shop here.
Use the code Nook10 to enjoy 10% off Little Reef and Friends, storewide!
Topsy Turvy Sweedish Ladder
The ultimate playroom upgrade, Topsy Turvy’s Swedish ladders are a perfect way to keep kids moving, having fun and developing essential motor skills. Sturdy and sustainable (not to mention aesthetically pleasing) the ladders can handle the wildest play while helping kids build strength and coordination. With a weight capacity of over 100kg, they’re tough enough for parents to jump in for a quick workout too. Popular in Europe, these ladders offer a simple, compact way to get kids climbing, balancing, and staying active. It’s all about giving them a fun way to grow strong and confident, right in your home.
How much: $1049
Shop here.
www.topsyturvy.co.nz
Use the code Nook20 for an exclusive 20% off all orders over $400! Be quick – the code is only valid until Sunday, 22 September 2024.
Little Lux Rainbow Retreat With Kitchen
Choosing just one playhouse from Little Lux is a near-impossible task. With so many beautiful and thoughtfully crafted variations, each “captures the essence of childhood magic” and without doubt will be worth every cent to see your little one’s eyes light up and jaw hit the ground. We love that you can paint and personalise them how you like and encourage your children’s unique style.
How much: $1999
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Kinderfeets Play Tent
It’s hard to fault Kinderfeets‘ products and their Play Tent is no exception. A cosy, imaginative space designed for kids to explore and play, it’s made from natural bamboo and cotton canvas, is sturdy yet lightweight, and perfect for setting up indoors or out. The Play Tent is a versatile big birthday gift that will grow with your child, with a simple design that encourages creativity. A hideout? A reading nook? It’s whatever they imagine!
How much: $210
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Ziggurat Modular Sofa
The Ziggurat is a modular play couch that turns any space into an adventure zone. It includes a base, a mattress, and two prism cushions, all wrapped in a durable, colourful cover. This versatile piece isn’t just for lounging—kids use it for imaginative play, building forts, or even practising their climbing skills. Designed to fill a gap in the New Zealand market, the Ziggurat blends fun and function, making it a perfect addition to any home. Not just furniture; it’s a launchpad for creativity and active play that will be used over and over. Perfect big birthday gifts for kids if you’re looking for something to last.
How much: $649
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Forest & Frolic Mud Kitchen
If you have a little chef, wild explorer and potion-making connoisseur on your hands, Forest & Frolic’s Forage & Find Mud Kitchen is your ultimate playground for culinary mischief. With a clever shelf for all your treasures, handy hooks for your tools, and a sliding bench to keep the sink out of sight, creativity and messiness go hand in hand here.
How much: $469
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The Playtime Store Softplay Set
The Velvet Soft Play Set by The Playtime Store brings fun and style to any playroom. This four-piece set, made from soft velvet, is built for endless play and developmental growth. It fits perfectly into any home, supporting active play while blending seamlessly with your decor. Designed by a mum of three, so you know it has been tried and tested, this set is as practical as it is stylish. If there is any wriggle room in your budget, their ball pit is a guaranteed winner, too!
How much: $350
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Hotchpotch Tenderleaf Mini Chef Home Kitchen
The Tender Leaf Mini Chef Home Kitchen has everything your little chef needs. It has got an oven, hobs, a butler’s sink, and a cupboard for stashing all their kitchen essentials. It even comes with a wooden kettle, cups, utensils, a tea towel, and a baguette they can slice up. The oven tray doubles as a cover for the sink, giving them extra space to whip up their pretend meals. Fun, practical, beautifully designed, and perfect for hours of creative play.
How much: $285
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Use the code NOOK10 for 10% off all Hotchpotch, storewide! This excludes already discounted products but is eligible for free standard shipping on orders over $149.
Every Educaid Active World Tray and Stand
If your kids love messy play, a tuff tray could be the ideal “big” present this year. This one from Every Educaid is a great size, with the option to purchase alone or with a stand that features three height options to grow with your child. Perfect for messy, small world and water play, an Active World Tray is super versatile and bound to embark you on a Pinterest pinning spree.
How much: $322.32
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Sawdust and Co Large Sand Pit
We love supporting local, and these handcrafted sandpits, made in Selwyn by a devoted dad, are designed to spark imagination and creativity. Build sandcastles, dig moats, and let their imaginations run wild. The hinged lid doubles as seating and keeps out pests when closed. Made from weather-resistant timber with a sand screen to stop weeds, these sandpits are built to last. Opt to buy as a kit and build yourself, or pick up preassembled.
How much: $350
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tiny toy shop Waytoplay Ring Road
The Ring Road from Waystoplay is where the fun starts for young drivers and builders. This circular track invites kids to zoom around and let their imaginations run wild. Crafted from durable, child-safe materials, it’s built for endless adventure and play. Perfect for role-playing with toy cars, this timeless toy will keep kids engaged as it turns any play area into a bustling racetrack.
How much: $98
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gobaplay NZ Boat Swing
If you want your money’s worth when it comes to spending on big birthday gifts for kids, a garden swing set will pay off in more than one way. Renowned for its durable and design-forward play equipment, gobaplay’s swing sets are sturdy and innovative; the strong steel construction, rust-resistant coating, and easy assembly make it a lasting addition to your outdoor space. Heavy-duty carabiner clips allow for quick accessory changes, and proper anchoring guarantees safety. Swinging isn’t just fun; it’s a powerful boost for a child’s development. It sharpens balance, coordination, and motor skills, while the gentle motion enhances spatial awareness and can even be soothing for those with sensory needs.
How much: $699
Shop here.
