A whole lot of play coming to Far North libraries

Lego, sports gear, craft equipment, giant games and more will now give tamariki and rangatahi even more options for active play and social connection across the district, thanks to almost $10,000 of Play Week 2026 funding for He Puna Marama- Far North District Libraries.

All seven libraries recently secured $9,931.99 (plus GST) in Tū Manawa funding, to purchase a range of fun, play-based resources and equipment to help encourage creativity, connection and active play within Far North communities.

The equipment will also be available for use beyond Play Week, helping libraries to make the most of the investment at future events and activities.

Ruben Garcia, Group Manager for Community and Engagement said the funding would give tamariki and rangatahi more opportunities to get active, be creative and build friendships through play.

“Libraries are more than places to borrow books, they’re spaces where communities connect, learn and have fun,” Garcia said.

“This is a great way to celebrate Play Week alongside the opening of our new Kaikohe Library and Civic Hub.”

Play Week is an annual campaign run by Sport New Zealand Ihi Aotearoa celebrating the many ways people can get involved in whānau play, including tākaro Māori.

While the official Play Week was held from 19-25 October, He Puna Marama- Far North District Libraries will run Play Week-themed programmes and activities from 9-13 November in celebration of- and to coincide with- the opening of the new Kaikohe Library and Civic Hub on 9 November.

This year’s theme, “Whānau play where whānau are”, celebrates the idea that whānau can play wherever they are, be it at home, at school or even their local library.

The funding allocations are:

• Kāeo Library – $1,470.24
• Paihia Library – $1,029.75
• Procter Library – $1,480.90
• Kaitāia Library (Te Hiku) – $1,494.10
• Kaikohe Library – $1,469.92
• Kawakawa Library – $1,513.80
• Far North Mobile Library – $1,473.28

Find out more information about library events here.