Wow, if you are a Lego fan, you have to check out Toy Planet! They stock the biggest range of Lego…read moreI've seen in Auckland, and it's also the most interesting range. I don't know if they import it, or if they simply have access to all the ranges available to stock in NZ (I think the other big chains only choose particular lines to carry) - but they really do have it all! My tip is to only shop here when you do not have your children with you, otherwise you'll end up leaving with an overloaded credit card...!

You may have seen the Maud and Mary- Jane stall at perhaps one of the Auckland festivals or maybe…read morepassed by her stall in either one of her locations: Matakana, Devonport or Titirangi. I was thrilled to browse Alexandria Mahoney's stall when I visited Matakana Village this past weekend. The stall is bustling with customers; she is a lovely and chatty lady, who has a passion for wool blankets, knitting, and collectable wool and fabric cushions. I love that every piece is so original, and all hand stitched and planned by this one lady. I am impressed with the creativity and comfort of her products, and trust that many a child would be thrilled with a fluffy owlet or Scottie dog from Maud and Mary-Jane. I have become fascinated with cushions of different colours, textures and materials, and really liked the choices here, with vintage wool and even crochet blankets- just amazing!

This is one of my favourite stores to shop for the children I love. I know that they won't be…read moregetting a duplicate from someone else, and that what I buy them will spark their imaginations and be used in play for years. Not only are the toy and game selections both unique and well-made, but the staff are very knowledgeable about their offerings and make expert suggestions on what items are good for different age groups. They have also been polite and friendly on every visit. This store never fails to delver on every level.

If you are a rich (and potentially pretentious) Europhile with a cool child or baby then you should…read moreprobably hit up this weird and very awesome shop. I only went into this place because it's on my way home from work, but I certainly did not regret it. Anonymously nestled on the way out of Ponsonby, Be Ba Bo is a kind of boutique toy shop where you can pick up all sorts of charming Germanic, Scandanavian, French, and Spanish fare. You won't find Barbie or Ken in this place, instead you will be greeted by a large rendering of the Eiffel tower, constructed out of some sort of obscure, German, meccano stuff. The place is absolutely awash with whimsy, and is certainly a haven for those of us whose interest is peaked by calm, clean, design. I adored the armies of little wooden figurines clothed in vibrant felt and woolen hairpieces. If I ever have a baby, I'll be certain to make it save up its pocket money so as to splash out on a terrific little something from Be Ba Bo.

Amazing customer service, and an INCREDIBLE range of Lego and collectibles, they also have a fairly…read moreextensive online store. Def recommend over any other toy shop. Much better quality products than most. I was impressed with the amount of wooden toys they had too!

really not a great experience. The stock is old and not just that, defiantly the most expensive toy…read morestore in Auckland. bought a thomas wooden rail way set from them not only was it over priced i found later when i saw the same set sold in other toy shops, some of the set was broken. gave me a lame excuse that they have to send it back to the supplier... in that time my kids have not thomas wooden rail way to play with even though we paid a lot for it. Advise DONT GO HERE

Does it get anymore adorable?!!!!…read more I don't even have kids, yet every time I'm in The Deparment Store I find myself browsing the clothes at Nature Baby and creating excuses to buy something. I mean who can resist baby pink sheepskin booties? Not me, that's for sure. Today I bought some for my friend who only 20weeks pregnant. Although it's called Nature Baby, they also have another line called Nature Kids, which they stock at this store too. The sizes go up to 4yo but it's a pretty small range. On top of this there's a small selection of toys and beauty products too. I love that everything is natural and made from sustainable materials where ever possible. They do have bigger stores over the other side but this one is my favourite - any excise to go to The Dept Store really...

This is the store for the stylishly dressed child. They have an amazing range of designer clothes…read moreand products for your little newborn, infant, baby, toddler, or child. Some faves for the ladies or guys with babes who are on their way to potty training themselves is the Beco Potty, which is a multi award winning and the world's first ever eco friendly potty, yes parents it actually biodegrades in your own landfill once you are done with your babies training. Products such as the Beco Potty, are what make Bambina unique and a must do stop for parents interested in finding the latest designer product or snazzy outfit for the kid.

Bambina is a special boutique baby shop which stocks things for 0-5 year olds. They have so many…read morecute things that I just wanted to buy everything, there are clothes, shoes, dolls, toys, hats, bibs, books, plates and utensils and many more. The point of difference is that everything they sell here is special and they have a range that you wouldn't find at the big stores. For that reason they are a little more expensive but often have specials. If you are looking for that special something for either a friends baby, your granddaughter or son or your baby then be sure to go to this shop or you can also order online.

The best toy shop in Pukekohe, it has lots of education toys to help your children…read more Staff are very friendly and helpful

Every time I'm down in Browns Bay something always pulls me to Paper Power. Is it something to do…read morewith my stationary obsession, primal need to find a bargain and my ability to use retail therapy to fix all problems? Yup, you've caught me red handed. This shop fills all my wants and needs as it's packed with awesome stuff at the best prices. Whether I'm late for party and need to pick up sellotape asap, or am just in the mood to browse around all their crazy store, it's great. It'd be a really great place to do the yearly shopping for the kids' stationary as they have everything other stationary stores have, but it's just a lot cheaper. Otherwise, if you're just a stationary nerd like me, it's a great way to fill in an afternoon hehe.

I like you, am more than excited to welcome the return of The Last Place Store in its new residence…read moreat 62 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna! They've got some awesome new winter gear in stock, so make sure you come down to check it out.