Wakatipu Toy Library Needs Community Help to Keep Operating During Events Centre Redevelopment
The Wakatipu Toy Library — a beloved community-run service lending quality toys, games and play equipment to hundreds of local families — is facing its most urgent challenge yet. With the Queenstown Events Centre undergoing redevelopment, the Toy Library must vacate its current Frankton premises and has found a temporary base nearby, thanks to the supportive team at Remarkables Park Limited. But it must raise $60,000 by mid-year to fit out the interim space and keep the service running without interruption.
Major funding from Central Lakes Trust and Community Trust South has provided a vital foundation. What remains is a real gap — and a tight deadline — that only community support can close.
Over the past two years the volunteer-run committee has transformed the service: launching a fully online toy catalogue, reusable birthday party packs, and garden game rentals, while strengthening family partnerships across the district. This relocation is about protecting that progress — and ensuring every child in the Wakatipu can access great play, regardless of household income.
Two Ways to Help
1. Donate via Givealittle
Any donation is welcome. A gift of $160 sponsors a full-year membership for a family in need through the Play It Forward programme — giving children access to quality play regardless of their family’s circumstances. Donate: givealittle.co.nz/cause/help-us-secure-a-new-home-for-the-wakatipu-toy
2. Business Partnership
Local businesses can become a Founding BRICK Partner ($1,500) or Founding BLOCK Partner ($5,000). Both tiers include social media recognition, an invitation to the Frankton reopening event, and a team volunteering session. BLOCK Partners also receive permanent signage recognition at the new premises, visible to every family who walks through the door. To discuss a partnership: get in touch via email.
The Wakatipu Toy Library has served Queenstown’s families for decades. With the right support now, it can continue to do so without missing a beat — keeping its doors open from a temporary Frankton base while the Events Centre redevelopment plays out. Every ticket, donation, and partnership makes that possible. Get in touch via email: wakatiputoylibrary@gmail.com
