Let's Keep Young Minds Exploring
Every visit to Te Āhuru Mōwai offers families something to explore, with a new initiative designed to make the children's area of the library even more engaging and welcoming.
A quarterly rotation of interactive play equipment will give young visitors a fresh experience throughout the year. The play sets are designed to be enjoyed within the library’s children’s area and are available for families to use during their visits. A large doll's house is currently available, encouraging storytelling, role-playing and shared adventures.
Upcoming rotations will feature a kitchen, shopping and café set-up, and an office-themed collection, each providing different ways for youngsters to learn, interact and explore.
The idea came from Community Hub Experience Specialist, Val Leighton, who has worked at the library for more than 20 years and has seen how spaces have evolved over time. "After two decades at the library, I've seen how important it is to keep our spaces inviting and relevant," said Val Leighton. "Introducing different activities throughout the year gives families another reason to visit and encourages youngsters to use their imagination in new ways. Seeing them laugh, interact and make up their own stories is incredibly rewarding."
Val personally selected each of the new play sets, ensuring they reflected the community hub's welcoming environment and supported meaningful experiences.
The rotating toys compliment the library's permanent favourites, including the ever-popular Duplo, colouring in and the outdoor children's play area. Together, they provide a place where books, exploring and social connection naturally come together.
A young child visits the library especially to play with the new dollhouse, enjoying imaginative play in a welcoming space.

