When it comes to buying gifts for kids, doesn’t it feel like birthdays and Christmas come around more than twice a year? Blink, and suddenly it’s time for another celebration.
If you’re tired of buying toys that are outgrown in minutes, you’re not alone. Sure, tiny sneakers and plush teddies are adorable, but when it comes to cost-per-wear (or cost-per-play), they can end up costing you a bomb. That’s why we’re excited about a gift that keeps children entertained for years, while also making your job as the giver far easier.
Introducing the new Toniebox 2: a toy that our editor swears might be a game-changer for parents. And yes, she can confirm her nephews will each be getting one for Christmas.
But wait, what are Tonies?
Tonies is the world’s largest interactive audio platform for children. The Toniebox is already loved by many NZ families, and the brand new Toniebox 2 is launching in Aotearoa this month. This soft but sturdy audio cube works with collectable figurines called Tonies. Each Tonie is filled with loads of audio fun: from classic stories and songs to educational adventures and even mindfulness activities. Bonus: the Toniebox 2 features Tonieplay, a world of screen-free interactive gaming (more on that later).
It’s 100 per cent screen-free, which is music to the ears of any parent wanting to cut back on television time. Unlike tablets or traditional audio players, the Toniebox 2 blends storytelling, music, and all-new interactive games with tactile play. Kids simply pop a Tonie figurine on top of the box and they’re ready to explore, learn, and grow at their own pace.
Better still, tonies grows with children, from toddlers to tweens, making it a gift that really does keep on giving.
The best Tonies to buy for each age group
Firstly, purchase the Toniebox 2. This makes an excellent gift for Christmas or birthdays, and sets you up for gift-giving success. Then start snapping up the best Tonies for your little ones’ age group and vocabulary level.
Ages 1–3
Start them young with My First Tonies, which have been designed especially for little listeners. These Tonies combine playful rhymes, real animal sounds, and short, simple stories that spark imagination and build early vocabulary.
The Travel Set contains soft, squeezable figurines with stories about planes, trains, and ships – perfect for curious toddlers. Or introduce farmyard favourites with the Farm Pack, which contains animal figurines spouting interactive tales and songs about cows, pigs, and horses. These sets help develop listening and language skills in a fun, engaging way.
Ages 3–4
Is the idea of a peaceful dinner, bath and bed routine a distant dream in your household? Your evening routine just became a whole lot more streamlined with Bedtime Tonies from the Sleepy Friends collection. Designed to soothe and settle little ones, these characters share calming stories, gentle lullabies, and even relaxing soundscapes. Pair them with the Toniebox 2’s soft glow Sleep Light and you’ve got the perfect sleep-time companion. The challenge for parents? To not drop off yourself during the bedtime stories!
Ages 5–6
Kids can enjoy stories and songs from their favourite onscreen characters without a screen in sight. From Paw Patrol’s Chase and Rubble to Spidey and His Amazing Friends, plus Disney characters like Moana, the fun feels endless. And trust us, parents will love the decrease in overstimulation.
Ages 6–8
It’s not just about listening. There’s fun to be had with interactivity as well. Playtime takes off with Tonieplay – interactive, screen-free games and stories that let kids take the lead using the Tonieplay Controller, available on Toniebox 2. Whether it be stepping into Gabby’s Dollhouse of magical adventures, lending an extra set of paws (or hands!) to the Paw Patrol around Adventure Bay, or crowning the champion of the Disney Quiz Kingdom, your little one will have a whole new way to play that sparks creativity, critical thinking and teamwork, all while keeping them entertained solo or with friends and family.
Ages 8+
For older kids, tonies offers full unabridged audiobooks from beloved authors like Enid Blyton, Roald Dahl, Adam Kay, and David Walliams. Audiobooks don’t just keep them entertained! They also help build vocabulary, boost comprehension, and encourage a lifelong love of reading.
When it’s time to unwind, mindfulness Tonies guide children through calming exercises to help them relax after busy school days.
Where to buy Tonies and the Toniebox 2
Once you’ve purchased a Toniebox 2, you’re away laughing. There are more than 150 Tonies to collect for age-appropriate listening over the years. Ready to explore the new Toniebox 2 or find the perfect Tonie for the child in your life? Head to tonies.co.nz to browse the full range.
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