In a world where toys are often outgrown faster than they’re unpacked, one local library has made playtime last for generations.
The Howick and Pakūranga Toy Library recently celebrated 30 years of providing an invaluable service to families in East Auckland.
The library’s operations are funded through various sources.
Howick Local Board has been proudly backing the Toy Library since 2020 with grants to cover rent, contributing a total of $28,499.48 to help keep this beloved community service going strong.
The Toy Library acknowledges the Howick Local Board, whose vital grant ensures financial stability. This essential support empowers volunteers to dedicate their time and energy to delivering enriching and joyful play experiences.
This popular community resource had plenty of people turn up to celebrate its 30 year milestone in June.
Librarians Sarah McNeil and Gemma Chuah emphasise the importance of the toy library in supporting children from newborns up to seven years old, including those with special needs or sensory challenges.
“We hire out a HUGE range of toys including slide sets, large ride-on toys, construction, figurine play sets and dollhouses, train sets, toy vehicles, baby toys, role play and dressing up, toys for playdough, sand and water play, board games, puzzles and even DVDs,” Sarah explains.
Since moving to Howick, membership has grown to 206 families, up from 164 last year, with 300 toys on loan and nearly 500 issued in the past month. Families appreciate the affordable, sustainable option, and limited home space makes the library invaluable to many.
How it works
Housed within the Howick Presbyterian Church, the toy library operates on a membership system, offering access to a vast range of toys that support children’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development.
The library is run by paid librarians during opening hours, with the help of dedicated volunteers, often parents with active memberships.
How to be a toy hero
You can join for $100 a year or $30 for five visits or three months, with toy hire fees from 50 cents to $5.
After 30 years, the Howick and Pakūranga Toy Library remains a vital community hub where children’s imaginations grow and families connect.
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