Playcentre Aotearoa is inviting whānau across the motu to step outside and experience the joy of outdoor play during Playcentre Outdoor Play Week, running from 3–7 November 2025.
Outdoor play is essential for early childhood development. The Ministry of Health’s physical activity guidelines for under-fives highlight the importance of play in helping young children stay active and develop socially, emotionally, and cognitively.
According to Sport New Zealand’s principles of play, tamariki need access to enriched and varied play experiences – both man-made and natural – that involve movement, sensory exploration, and imaginative escape.
“Outdoor play offers numerous benefits for tamariki, including the opportunity to be physically active in a fun way that develops fundamental movement skills, encourages social connections, while deepening their understanding of the natural world “,” says Nepia Winiata, Interim Chief Executive of Playcentre Aotearoa.
Playcentre offers a variety of outdoor play experiences, including sand and water play, nature-based play, physical play, gardening, mud kitchens, building and construction with natural and recycled materials and much more.
Because Playcentre is parent-led, outdoor play varies by centre and reflects the interests of the whānau involved. With a high adult-to-child ratio (at least 1:5), children enjoy a tailored programme and regular excursions into the local environment or community to support their learning.
During Playcentre Outdoor Play Week, nearly 400 centres across Aotearoa will be open for whānau with tamariki from birth to school age to visit, explore, and experience the magic of outdoor play.
Find a centre near you and book your visit at www.playcentre.org.nz
