Nau mai haere mai ki mainly play

mainly play is a relaxed weekly space where whānau and their young tamariki enjoy time together through play, stories, waiata, and simple activities.

It’s a welcoming environment where tamariki can explore at their own pace, and adults can pause, connect, and feel part of a caring community.

Whether your tamaiti is keen to join in or prefers to stay close, you are warmly welcomed just as you are.

What happens at mainly play?

Each session includes a short, guided time with stories, waiata, rhymes, and age-appropriate activities that support early learning and development.

This is followed by unstructured play and time to kōrero together. Tamariki explore freely while adults relax, connect, and build relationships with others in a similar season of life. Kai is shared as part of this time.

What to expect when you come

• A warm welcome from the mainly play team 
• A short, structured time with stories, waiata, and activities 
• Space for your tamariki to join in as much (or as little) as they choose 
• Time to play, kōrero, and enjoy kai together 
• A friendly, inclusive environment with no pressure or expectations 

There’s nothing to prepare and nothing special to bring — just come and enjoy time together.

For whānau, as well as tamariki

mainly play is designed with both tamariki and adults in mind.

As tamariki grow in confidence, curiosity, and social skills through play, adults often experience something just as meaningful: encouragement, belonging, and connection with others.

Many whānau describe mainly play as a gift — a place where relationships grow naturally and everyone feels welcomed.

Hear from a parent

“My child grew in confidence each week. We are situated far from our extended family, so the interaction with the team created a sense of family for us. They were genuinely interested in us. I loved getting involved in the crafts with him — a little messy play benefits adults and children alike! What surprised me was the friendships I gained through my interaction. mainly play was a gift to our family.”

You are welcome here

mainly play sessions are hosted by local teams from local churches who care deeply about supporting whānau in their communities.

You do not need to attend church or have any previous connection to take part. mainly play is open to all whānau who want to spend time together in a safe, welcoming environment.

Find your local mainly music or mainly play.