Keeping up with what the kiddos are into these days can feel like a full-time job - not to mention, it’s ALWAYS changing.
But there are experts who are on the pulse. The Warehouse is NZ's largest toy retailer and their own toy guru, Sarah Brittenden, has just revealed the top toy trends this year.
From the classics we know and love, like LEGO and Play-Doh, to the newbies with Squishmallows and, ahem, light horror?? The toy scene is creating a whole new world of fun for the kiddos - and kidults!
The top kids toys in NZ 2024:
‘Kidult’ nostalgia
Speaking of, the ‘kidult’ trend is BOOMING, proving that toys are still for us big kids too.
LEGO is and has done this really well. Their Botanical Range doubles as home decor AND a fun pastime.
Other old-school fave games are making a serious comeback. We’re talking Operation and Trivial Pursuit, giving us all the nostalgic feels.
Collectables
“Collecting toys has always been a way for kids to engage in play and for adults to revisit their childhood,” says Sarah.
As TikTok has shown, Zuru’s Mini Brands, Pokémon, and NBA trading cards are well and truly back on the scene.
Movie madness
With new movie releases including ‘Wicked’, ‘Despicable Me 4’, and the ‘Moana’ sequel, Sarah Reckons there’s a big jump into movie-themed toys.
'Light horror'
Here’s the eyebrow-raiser - toys with a light horror twist are trending HARD.
Think Monster High and - even more recently - Wednesday Addams. They’re spooky but suuuuper popular with the kiddos.
Sensory toys and creative play
With the cost of living being persistent, parents are becoming more strategic with what toys they’re buying.
“We've observed that parents are choosing toys that offer educational value and multiple play opportunities, making every dollar go further,” Sarah says.
Playdoh, for example, is a HIT for its ASMR-like experience.
Squishmallows
The most wanted toy right now is Squishmallows, making them the top pick in New Zealand across all age groups. It's easy to see why - they’re a-dor-a-ble AND collectible.
I want some of my own.
Honestly, maybe we forget the kids and dive into the toy box ourselves!
