Our Story
At Curious Moonbeam, we believe the best learning happens through play — preferably the kind that doesn’t involve a trail of biscuit crumbs from one end of the lounge to the other. We're a New Zealand-owned business making open-ended, sustainable, and educational toys more accessible for modern Kiwi families.
Our curated range draws inspiration from Montessori, Steiner, and STEM principles—encouraging independence, creativity, and developmental growth through hands-on, screen-free play. From wooden toys for babies to imaginative play sets for preschoolers, each item is chosen to support your child’s natural curiosity (and distract them just long enough for you to drink a cup of tea while it’s still hot).
Founded by Parents, Educators & Play Enthusiasts
We're Steph and Dom, co-founders, parents, and passionate believers in learning through play. Steph is a qualified Montessori teacher with years of experience supporting tamariki in early education. Dom brings a tech-driven approach to helping families access these philosophies in practical ways (translation: he’s the one who can set up the Wi-Fi on the first try).
As parents ourselves—raising a curious toddler and part of a wider blended family—we understand the joy (and challenge!) of parenting mindfully. Some days it’s a serene scene of stacking blocks and gentle giggles… other days it’s rescuing the cat from a pram ride. Our mission is to offer toys that are more than just things to do—they're tools for who your child is becoming.
Why Choose Curious Moonbeam?
- Imagination Over Instructions – Our toys don’t tell your child what to do; they invite them to invent. That means your toddler might turn a set of blocks into a zoo, a rocket ship, or a cake shop before lunch. Imaginative play builds problem-solving skills, social understanding, and creative thinking that last a lifetime.
- Toys That Grow With Them – Many of our pieces adapt as your child’s skills develop, so what starts as a simple stacking game might later become the foundation for counting, storytelling, or elaborate make-believe worlds. Fewer “outgrown” toys = happier storage cupboard.
- Calmer, More Focused Play – Wooden toys offer less sensory overload than flashy plastic ones, which helps little learners focus for longer stretches. (Translation: you might actually get to finish folding the laundry.)
- Beautiful Enough to Live In Your Lounge – No garish primary-coloured clutter here. Our toys are designed to complement your home, so you can leave that gorgeous wooden rainbow on the coffee table without it screaming “toy explosion.”
- Planet-Friendly Choices – We prefer sustainably sourced wood, non-toxic finishes, and minimal plastic. You’re not just investing in your child’s play—you’re contributing to a healthier planet for them to grow up in.
- Kiwi-Owned, Locally Shipped – We’re based in Christchurch, with fast, free shipping NZ-wide. No waiting weeks for an overseas parcel that may or may not arrive in time for the birthday party.
Our Core Brands
We proudly stock a carefully curated line-up of premium wooden toy makers, including:
- QToys – Thoughtfully designed for open-ended play and skill development.
- Tender Leaf Toys – Whimsical, beautifully detailed pieces that invite storytelling.
- Mentari – Modern, sustainable designs with a playful twist.
- Kiddie Connect – Clever puzzles and learning tools that grow with your child.
- Wheely Bugs – Ride-on favourites that are as fun as they are adorable.
…and we’re always on the lookout for more beautiful, lasting brands to add to the mix.
Our brands are delivered direct to you from our NZ-based supplier(s) to reduce the environmental impact of shipping.
Every toy we stock is wooden, durable, and built to last through years of adventures (and possibly a few “flying off the couch” moments). Many are designed to spark problem-solving, early maths and literacy, and open-ended creativity—helping little ones turn a simple toy into a big world of possibilities.
No flashing lights. No tinny electronic jingles on loop. Just the joyful soundtrack of play… plus the occasional toddler dinosaur roar from the other room.
Join the Playful Movement
Whether you're searching for the best wooden toys in New Zealand, sustainable gifts for toddlers, or educational puzzles for curious minds—we’re here to help you find meaningful play that lasts longer than the average toddler attention span.
Curious Moonbeam – Learning through play, every step (and occasional leap off the couch) of the way.