1. What is Wildling Haven?

Wildling Haven is a nature-inspired sensory playgroup in Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty, offering relaxed stay and play sessions for babies, toddlers and young children. Our playgroup encourages child-led play, sensory exploration and outdoor discovery, where children can explore, create and connect alongside their parents or caregivers.

Our environment blends natural materials, messy play and sensory experiences, both indoors and outdoors, allowing children to learn through curiosity, imagination and hands-on play. Guided by nature and play-based learning, Wildling Haven provides a welcoming space for families looking for sensory play, toddler activities and nature-based playgroup sessions in Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty.

2. What makes Wildling Haven different?

Wildling Haven is more than a playgroup — it’s a nature-inspired sensory playgroup in the Bay of Plenty designed to support child-led play, outdoor exploration and meaningful connection between children and their caregivers.

Our stay & play sessions for babies, toddlers & young children are run by qualified and experienced early childhood teachers who are passionate about nature-based learning and sensory play. Each session is thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, creativity and hands-on discovery through natural materials, messy play and engaging sensory experiences.

We create welcoming outdoor play spaces where children can explore at their own pace while parents and caregivers stay and play alongside them. By embracing nature, the seasons and play-based learning, Wildling Haven offers a unique space for families looking for sensory toddler activities and nature playgroup sessions in Tauranga & the wider Bay of Plenty.

It’s a place where families can slow down, connect, explore together and enjoy the magic of childhood through play.

3. What age group is Wildling Haven for?

Wildling Haven offers nature-inspired sensory playgroup sessions for babies, toddlers and young children aged 0–5 years in Tauranga & the wider Bay of Plenty. Our relaxed stay & play sessions support child-led play, sensory exploration and outdoor learning in a welcoming nature-based environment. During school holidays, we may also host special nature play sessions for older siblings, so the whole family can enjoy our outdoor sensory play experiences together.

4. Do parents/caregivers stay during the session?

Yes. Wildling Haven is a stay-and-play group, parents/caregivers remain responsible for their children at all times.
Our role is to facilitate experiences, not to provide childcare.

5. What is expected of me as a parent/caregiver?

Wildling Haven is a shared experience between you and your children. We encourage you to:

Be present: Put your phone away, slow down and savour the moment.

Supervise your child/ren: You know them best and can help them navigate challenges safely.

Manage health needs: Bring any required medication (e.g., EpiPen, inhaler) and
decide if activities are suitable for your child.

Get involved: Play alongside your child, join in the fun and explore together.

Make connections: Chat with other parents and caregivers; we’re building community here.

Give your child time: Let them lead the play and discover at their own pace.

Care for the environment: Help children look after resources and leave our spaces better than we found them.

Discover your inner patience: Some moments are about standing back and observing.

Find your inner wild child: Embrace the mud, water and all the fun of the outdoors.

6. What can I expect at a Wildling Haven session?

Every session is unique, but you can look forward to:

Sensory play: From mud kitchens to sensory stations, your child will get gloriously messy.

Adventures: Exploring open spaces, climbing, balancing, and discovering new challenges.

Curiosity & creativity: Invitations to play that spark imagination and problem-solving.

Connection & community: Meeting like-minded parents and caregivers.

Opportunities for learning: From social interaction to fine and gross motor skills.

Support: Guidance and ideas for working alongside your child in their play.

Fun: Laughter, movement, and joy are at the heart of every session.

7. Where are sessions held?

We pop up at beautiful outdoor locations around Tauranga & the wider Bay of Plenty, from local parks to private spaces.

We also occasionally run special indoor sessions in wet weather.

8. What happens if it rains?

If the weather is light drizzle, we’ll embrace it! We recommend dressing for the conditions. For heavy rain or unsafe weather, we may move to an indoor backup location or postpone, you’ll be notified by text/email.

9. How much does it cost?

Casual session: $18 per child 

Term bookings: Coming soon

Sibling rates and multi-child discounts are available — please contact us for details.

10. What should we bring?

Weather-appropriate clothing: Dressing in layers helps your child stay comfortable in changing conditions.

Waterproof overalls: Allows children to get wet and messy without the worry. 

Gumboots / Appropriate footwear: We like to tackle all terrains within our nature play sessions.

Hats: Essential for sun protection, or cozy in cooler months

Sunscreen & insect repellent: Protect their skin while they enjoy the outdoors.

Lots of changes of clothes: Expect your child to get messy and dirty, they might need a change of clothes after the session.

A water bottle and snacks: we know children enjoy snacks and need to be hydrated.

Tip: Please dress your child in clothes that can get messy,  because getting messy is all part of the fun and adventure!

11. Are snacks provided?

No, please bring your own snacks and drink for your children. We encourage healthy, nut-free options.
For the safety and comfort of all, please do not share food with other children unless you have permission from their parents or caregivers.

12. What if my child is sick?

If your child is unwell or showing signs of illness, please keep them home.
If they become unwell during a session, we ask that you leave promptly so everyone can stay safe and healthy.

13. Can I take photos during the session?

Yes, you’re welcome to capture memories of your own child. Please avoid including other children unless you have clear permission from their parents or caregivers.
Wildling Haven may take photos or short videos for promotional purposes, but we avoid using full-face images of children unless permission is given.

14. Do you run structured activities?

Our sessions are open-ended and child-led. We provide a variety of invitations to play, from sensory setups, nature craft to gross motor challenges where children can explore at their own pace.

15. Do you have safety measures in place?

Yes. While parents are responsible for supervising their children, we have Terms & Conditions and RAMs (Risk Assessment & Management) in place for each site. We set up our play areas with safety in mind and first aid is always available.
Participation is at your own risk.

16. What is your cancellation policy?

We may cancel or reschedule sessions due to unsafe weather or unforeseen circumstances. We will notify you as early as possible.
No refunds are offered for cancellations made by families, as resources are pre-planned and prepared in advance. If you do need to cancel feel free to give your session to a friend however please notify Wildling Haven. 

17. How do I book?

You can book your session or term pass via our website. Spaces are limited, so we recommend booking early to secure your spot.

18. Can we host Wildling Haven for a private event?

Yes, coming soon! We can run private sessions for playgroups, ECE centres, or community events.

Contact us to chat about your needs.