Looking to buy Tonies in NZ? This guide covers where to buy the Toniebox in New Zealand, where to find Tonie figurines, what to expect with pricing and shipping, and how to choose the right version for your family.
If you’ve been seeing Tonieboxes everywhere and wondering whether they’re worth it — or where to buy one locally without overpaying – this guide walks you through the practical details.
If you’re deciding between audio players, our Yoto vs Toniebox comparison guide breaks down the key differences for families.
What is a Toniebox?
A Toniebox is a screen-free audio player designed for young children. Instead of apps or screens, kids listen to stories, music and educational content by placing small figurines called Tonies on top of the speaker.
When a Tonie is placed on the Toniebox, the audio automatically begins playing.
The design is intentionally simple for little hands. Volume is controlled by squeezing the ears, tapping the sides skips chapters, and tilting the box fast-forwards or rewinds the story.
Many families choose the Toniebox as a screen-free alternative for toddlers and preschoolers, especially for bedtime routines, quiet time, travel and independent play.
Where to Buy Tonies in NZ
There are several reliable options for buying a Toniebox in New Zealand, depending on whether you want to shop locally or order directly from the brand.
Tonies Website
While you can’t currently purchase Tonieboxes or Tonies directly from the Tonies website in New Zealand, the official site is still a helpful resource for parents.
It includes useful guides, setup instructions and troubleshooting support, along with information about the full Tonies range. If you’re researching characters or learning how the Toniebox works, the website can be a good starting point before buying from a New Zealand retailer.
Mighty Ape
Mighty Ape is one of the most popular places to buy Tonies in New Zealand.
It offers fast NZ shipping and regularly stocks popular characters including Disney and Peppa Pig.
Baby Bunting
Baby Bunting stocks the Toniebox and a range of Tonie characters in New Zealand.
This can be a convenient option if you’re already shopping for baby or toddler products.
Ballantynes
Ballantynes department store carries Tonieboxes and Tonies both online and in store. Availability can vary depending on location and season.
Spark NZ
Spark stores also stock Tonieboxes and Tonies, which surprises many parents. This can be useful if you prefer purchasing from a physical retail store.
JB Hi-Fi
JB Hi-Fi sells Tonieboxes and Tonies across New Zealand and is another good option when comparing prices between retailers.
Where to Buy Tonies Figurines in NZ
If you already have a Toniebox, you can buy additional Tonie figurines in New Zealand from several retailers.
Popular places to buy Tonies include:
- Mighty Ape
- Baby Bunting
- JB Hi-Fi
- Ballantynes
- Spark NZ
- Tonies official website
Availability varies depending on the character. Popular Tonies such as Disney, Bluey and Peppa Pig can sell out quickly during busy shopping periods like Christmas.
Many families slowly grow their collection by adding new Tonies for birthdays, Christmas or special occasions.
How Much Does a Toniebox Cost in NZ?
Pricing for a Toniebox in New Zealand varies depending on:
- The retailer
- Whether you purchase a starter bundle
- The number of Tonies included
- Seasonal promotions or sales
Starter bundles usually include the Toniebox and one or two Tonie figurines to begin with.
When comparing prices, it’s worth factoring in shipping fees and bundle value, not just the base price of the device.
What’s the Difference Between Toniebox 1 and Toniebox 2?
There are currently two Toniebox versions available in New Zealand.
Toniebox 1
The original Toniebox is designed for children aged 3+.
Key features include:
- 8GB storage
- Charging station dock
- Headphone jack
- Offline listening
- Durable padded fabric exterior
- Compatible with all Tonies
This is the version many families are already familiar with.
Toniebox 2
The Toniebox 2 launched in New Zealand in 2025 and includes several upgrades.
Key features include:
- Designed for children aged 1+
- 32GB storage capacity
- USB-C charging
- Dynamic light ring during playback
- Improved speaker quality
- Sleep timer with light
- Sunrise alarm feature
- Tonieplay interactive gaming
- Content age filter settings
Battery life has also improved to around 10 hours, compared to about 7 hours on the original Toniebox.
Both versions work with the full Tonies figurine library.
What Are Tonies?
Tonies are collectible audio figurines used with the Toniebox. Each character contains audio content such as stories, songs or audiobooks.
When placed on top of the Toniebox, the audio begins playing automatically.
Several types of Tonies are available.
Classic Tonies
Classic Tonies are the most common figurines and feature licensed characters such as:
- Disney stories
- Bluey
- Peppa Pig
- Julia Donaldson books
- Thomas the Tank Engine
Each Classic Tonie typically contains 30–90 minutes of audio content.
Creative Tonies
Creative Tonies allow parents to upload their own recordings.
Families often use these to:
- Record themselves reading stories
- Upload audiobooks
- Create custom music playlists
- Record messages from grandparents
Each Creative Tonie can hold up to 90 minutes of audio.
Pocket Tonies
Pocket Tonies focus on educational content, including stories, facts and music designed to encourage curiosity.
Audiobook Tonies
These Tonies contain chapter-book style audio content, allowing for longer listening sessions.
Night Light Tonies
Night Light Tonies combine sleep sounds, lullabies and bedtime stories with a soft glowing night light.
My First Tonies
My First Tonies are designed specifically for babies and toddlers, introducing young children to first sounds, songs and simple stories.
Best Tonies to Start With
If you’re buying a Toniebox in New Zealand for the first time, choosing a few good starter Tonies can help kids get the most out of it.
Many families start with a mix of stories, music and bedtime content.
Popular starter Tonies include:
Story Tonies
- Disney stories (Moana, Frozen, Toy Story)
- Julia Donaldson favourites
- Roald Dahl audiobook Tonies
Music Tonies
- Nursery rhyme collections
- Action songs and sing-alongs
Character Tonies
- Bluey
- Peppa Pig
- Thomas the Tank Engine
Bedtime Tonies
- Night Light Tonies with lullabies and sleep stories
You don’t need a huge collection to start. Many families begin with 3–5 Tonies and slowly build their collection over time.
Does the Toniebox Work Without Wi-Fi?
Yes.
Once your Toniebox has synced with Wi-Fi and your Tonies have downloaded their content, the device can be used completely offline.
This makes it ideal for:
- Travel
- Car rides
- Bedtime routines
- Independent play
Wi-Fi is only required when adding new Tonies or downloading updates.
Is the Toniebox Worth It for NZ Families?
For many families, the Toniebox becomes part of everyday routines.
Parents often use Tonies for:
- Bedtime stories
- Quiet time while siblings nap
- Long car journeys
- Independent play
- Reducing screen time
In fact, surveys suggest 96% of parents say the Toniebox helps reduce screen time.
For families looking for simple entertainment without screens, Tonies can fit easily alongside other activities like indoor activities for kids or things to do with toddlers in Christchurch.
Tonies vs Yoto: Which Is Better?
Parents often compare Tonies and Yoto, as both are popular screen-free audio players for kids.
The biggest difference is how children interact with the content.
Toniebox
- Uses figurine characters
- Designed especially for younger children
- Very tactile and easy to use
- Ideal for toddlers and preschoolers
Yoto Player
- Uses audio cards instead of figurines
- More structured navigation
- Often preferred for older children
If you’re deciding between the two, our Yoto vs Toniebox comparison guide explains the key differences for families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Toniebox available in New Zealand?
Yes. Tonieboxes and Tonies are available through several New Zealand retailers as well as the official Tonies website.
Can Tonies be used offline?
Yes. Once audio content has been downloaded to the Toniebox, it can be played without Wi-Fi.
Is the Toniebox suitable for toddlers?
Yes. The Toniebox 2 is designed for children aged 1+, and the My First Tonies range is created specifically for babies and toddlers.
How many Tonies are available?
There are over 300 Tonies globally, with a growing selection available in New Zealand including Disney, Bluey and Peppa Pig characters.
All images credited to tonies Facebook page
More screen-free ideas for kids
If you’re building a toolkit of low-pressure activities, you might also like:
- Indoor activities for kids
- Things to Do with Toddlers in Christchurch
- Indoor Activities for Toddlers in Christchurch
- Yoto Player NZ: Where to Buy and What Parents Need to Know
Some links in this guide may be affiliate links. This means nook NZ may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. We only share products and retailers we genuinely think are useful for families.
All images credited to tonies Facebook page
