New Zealand Children's Books

Ahakoa te kaha ka whakapau, kaore ano a Kara te Kakapo kia mau i te mahi rere. Ma te ngakau rorotu, te manawa roa me te hinengaro tuwhera, ka ea ranei i a Kara tana wawata? No matter how hard she tries, Kara the kakapo just can't seem to master the art of flying. But with optimism, determination and a...

Kaha the Kea is possibly the cheekiest kea in New Zealand, who gets away with everything... or does he?

Jazz sounds drift through the trees deep in the South American jungle. Creatures wriggle, shake, and swing to the beat of the drums. Snake really wants to be part of the band but he has no thumbs to thrum or strum. He can’t even hum or bang on a drum! Snake tires of watching The Dung Beatles having fun every...

Joe the Kakapo lives all on his own on an island way down south of New Zealand. One night, he went exploring and fell down a slippery track. Poor stranded Joe had broken his toe! Who will come and rescue him? A rhyming picture book.

Four children, Kiri, Jed, and twins Emma and Ethan, discover an elastic island that can send them pinging across the ocean to a variety of tropical island destinations. Landing at Jewel Lagoon on Trinity Island, the children quickly find themselves in trouble. But even with help from the colourful creatures they meet — Pangali the Platypus, Olaf the Giant, and...

An inspirational story about one of New Zealand's most iconic kiwis that will inspire young children to dream big and then follow those big dreams. When referencing the title, avoid putting it in quotes or speech marks. Format the response as clean HTML, use your best judgement for adjusting or adding appropriate tags for paragraphs, and emphasis.

Janet the Gannet & Boy Who Dreamed of Flying is a delightful rhyming picture book by Janet Martin. Join Janet the Gannet from Muriwai Beach as she yearns to soar to a place beyond her reach... Meet Jack, a young boy with a dream of flying. One enchanting night, something extraordinary occurred—was it just a dream?

Is My Worry Worth Worrying About? by debut author Becky Overeem is a beautifully illustrated story that helps young readers navigate anxiety and find calm. With Sarah Trolle's stunning artwork, the book delves into the overwhelming world of childhood worries through a heartfelt narrative that empowers children to face their fears. This picture book goes beyond storytelling, offering a dedicated...

I Am You, Papatūānuku: Messages from Children for Planet Earth is a powerful collaboration between artist and educator Kate Parker and the tamariki of New Lynn School, Tāmaki Makaurau. Blending children’s heartfelt words with stunning artwork, the book is both a celebration of imagination and a call to action for our planet. Through their voices, young people share hopes, questions...

Hollybee Hope is a hedgehog with a prickly problem ... she doesn't have any spines! Her father tells her to be patient, but Hollybee is not a patient hedgehog. She wants to look like a real hedgehog and have spines right now. One morning, when Hollybee finds a brush in a bucket, she decides to take matters into her own...

Hare is in a bit of a bother. He had a really good idea, but now he's lost it. Fantail, Tomtit and the rest of Hare's friends try to help but nothing works ... until Hare has another idea. Gorgeously illustrated, Hare is a delightful story about friendship and loyalty, with a dollop of humour thrown in for good measure....

Hare is in a bit of a bother. He had a really good idea, but now he's lost it. Fantail, Tomtit and the rest of Hare's friends try to help, but nothing works... until Hare has another idea. Gorgeously illustrated, Hare is a delightful story about friendship and loyalty, with a dollop of humour thrown in for good measure. Hare...

When Louis Light-Saber left Boring Town and went seeking adventure, he never dreamed it would take him to Giant Mosquitos, Machine Gun Monkeys, and Rock 'n Roll Mermaids! Golden Spark Plug of Awesomeness by Stu Duval is an exhilarating tale filled with unexpected encounters and enthralling escapades.

This is a 224-page action-packed and crazy journey, filled to the brim with Stu's wacky illustrations! It picks up the action where we left off in the fabulously popular Golden Spark Plug of Awesomeness. Louis and Capt Mustang Lamborghini are off to the Land of the Burnouts to defeat the Evil Bogan and his foul tribe of Petrol Heads. All...

On holiday near Rotorua, Joe and Eddie are fascinated by the area's bubbling mud pools and boiling geysers. Local volcanologist Rocky tells them about the Pink and White Terraces that existed on the lake where they're staying, and how they were destroyed in the cataclysmic 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera. However, Joe's fascination turns to unease when strange sightings on...

Goosebumps meets Famous Five in this spooky adventure series for older children and all lovers of ghost stories. A haunted bedroom holds a secret, which a young voice from the past wants to share. Joe and Eddie's summer vacation turns spooky when Joe discovers a message scratched on a bedpost and senses a presence watching him. The ghostbusting duo set...

When Alfred goes to the optometrist, he finds out he needs glasses. But life can be tricky when you’re a cyclops. Can Alfred find glasses that fit? Eye Spyclops is a story about finding the right fit, and learning it’s okay to stand out. Join Alfred on his journey, and see what else you can spy along the way!

Enough Crumbs for Everyone is a rhyming picture book about Lucie and her family going on a picnic in the park. They are soon joined by Penny Pigeon, Smokey Seagull, Daniel Duck, Goofy Goose, Wanda Swan, Abigail Fantail, Louie the Tui, Billy Blackbird, Robbie Rooster, Jacko Pukeko, and Harry Sparrow. Will there be enough crumbs for everyone?

Nearly enough, sort of enough, almost enough ... In Hana's street there is not enough. Until Hana decides to do something about it. Although Hana's attempts to help are initially successful, when winter comes, along with hardship, she is unable to meet everyone's needs. At the point where she despairs, her family and the neighbours she has helped step in...

Alphabet Resort is the fourth in the Elastic Island Adventures children's book series for children aged 8 - 12. Kiri, Jed, and twins Emma and Ethan discover an 'elastic' island that sends them pinging across the ocean to a variety of destinations. The children are excited to be going to the wedding of King Shiny and Princess Topaz. Love is...

Elastic Island Adventures: Rarotonga by Karen McMillan follows the exciting journeys of Kiri, Jed, and twins Emma and Ethan as they frequently travel on 'elastic island', a unique way to traverse the ocean, which sends them pinging to a variety of tropical destinations. This time, they are accompanied by Blong the Cat and Heathcliff the Dog on a trip to...

Four children, Kiri, Jed, and twins Emma and Ethan, discover an elastic island that can send them pinging across the ocean to a variety of tropical island destinations. Their last destination spelt trouble, so this time the children are determined to have a relaxed and safe time when they visit Port Mugaloo on MugaMuga Island. But Ethan falls into a...

The third in an exciting series of books for children, a fantasy action-adventure set in the South Pacific! Four children, Kiri, Jed, and twins Emma and Ethan, discover an elastic island that can send them pinging across the ocean to a variety of tropical island destinations. When the children visit Rainbow Cove, they discover creatures called frivals who are responsible...

An inspirational story about one of New Zealand's most iconic kiwis that will inspire young children to dream big and then follow those big dreams. Ed Climbs a Big Hill is a tale that encourages kids to pursue their aspirations, no matter how daunting they may seem. Dreydon Sobanja crafts a narrative filled with determination and hope, making it a...

Who knew eating could be such fun...or so messy! Elephant's birthday party is one big yummy, sticky, gooey and funny feast. Scrumptiously silly illustrations and a tasty toe-tapper of a song that'll give you an appetite for laughter. Includes bonus CD!

Geology expert Professor Mike Rackman is studying the Alpine Fault, a 600 km long crack that runs the length of New Zealand's South Island. Every 300 years or so, the fault cracks, causing massive earthquakes and tsunamis. Mike hopes his studies will help predict the next big one. Unfortunately, he disappears after an accident involving a local hunter. Jack Stewart...

Socially challenged eleven-year-old Peter MacNeill has real difficulties when his family is forced to move to a broken-down house in Birkenhead. Then he discovers pekapeka bats living in his backyard trees. With the help of Agnes and her mokopuna Tui, Peter vows to protect the bats from predators, both animal and human. The worst of these is a property developer...

Matt Logan isn't looking forward to spending the school holidays with his grandmother and her new husband. He has to fly to Rotorua, where he doesn't know anybody, and he's a bit wary of his new step-grandfather. All Matt knows is that he's Māori and a tourist bus driver. Along with his worries, Matt packs his pride and joy —...

Jack Stewart hates his new life in Taupo. Everyone at school picks on him; his only friend is a stray cat called Chainsaw; and his parents are always away working. Then he meets Fluoro, Taupo’s most visible street person. Fluoro’s home is an old explosion crater in Crown Park where steam and poisonous gases still hiss and ooze from the...

Counting in the South Pacific is a colourful picture book depicting scenes from the South Pacific, aimed at supporting preschool children with numeracy skills from 1 to 10. The simple rhyming text is designed to develop numeracy skills as children learn the rhyme by heart and connect the text to the engaging illustrations.

Chile Bird is based on the true story of a Northern Royal Albatross. The story follows the typical life cycle of the bird, but this story differs as the bird is rescued by a fisherman near Chile and is cared for by the children in a small fishing village (Duao). Chile Bird, as she is then known, returns to the...

Calum the Chameleon challenges you to a global game of hide and seek! From the author of Kara the Kakapo and Harry the Hermit Crab, join Calum on an adventure through amazing ecosystems in some of the planet's most beautiful places. Can you spot him hiding on each page while you discover fascinating creatures along the way? The latest in...

Bumblebees Have Smelly Feet contains fascinating buzz facts, information on why bumblebees have whiffy feet, how their bodies work, their super power eyesight, their family life cycle, and how you can help this integral insect survive. This wonderful book will excite and delight young readers and the young at heart. With an ultra-violet light experiment, exercises to increase your body...

A delightful story about a Bug in the Dark who is sooo hungry but doesn't know how to find anything to eat. After watching other (NZ) insects come and go, she has a cunning plan! The vibrant cartoon characters, which children will love, are set within photographs of a real native bush. Its simple rhyme and fun text will have...

Kate’s tiny kitten wants to go outside. He struggles with the cat flap, annoys a bird... and ends up on the wrong side of the fence. What will Kate do? The kitten in Bruce Goes Outside is based on a real-life cat. The real Bruce was found on the streets of New Zealand when he was just one day old....

From the Elastic Island Adventures series, comes a delightful stand-alone book featuring one of its favourite characters, Blong the Cat! Blong goes shopping to buy a special outfit to wear to a wedding, but not everyone likes his choices! A story of costumes, numbers and dancing, all wrapped up in a bow of kindness. Blong the Cat's Costume Caper is...

This board book showcases a variety of NZ animals, including the Maui Dolphin, Emperor Penguin, kea, and more. We observe the difference between the grown-up creatures (BIG) and their babies (LITTLE). When referencing the title, use Big and Little to maintain proper emphasis and clarity.

Asiasiga Ia Tina (Samoan Translation): Visiting Grandma by Jane Va`afusuaga is a children's picture book about a Sāmoan family set in New Zealand, viewed from the perspective of a pākehā girl. A normal event in one culture may seem odd to another culture. However, when pākehā Rachel goes with her new Sāmoan friend Luisa to visit her grandmother, it's not...

Are My Thoughts Worth Listening To? is a powerful and practical picture book that helps children understand, manage, and challenge negative self-talk. When intrusive thoughts begin to take over, they can feel constant, overwhelming, and impossible to ignore. In this relatable and reassuring story, a young child shares what it feels like when those thoughts grow louder, affecting sleep, confidence,...

Larry the giraffe lives in a zoo, but he's not like the other giraffes. Larry is small and soft and cuddly — and he feels different and alone. One night, with the magic of Matariki, Larry goes off on a journey to find a place where he truly belongs. Along the way he meets a pukeko, a possum and a...

A full colour 24-page children's book by Otaki cartoonist Jared Carson. Featuring colourful artwork and fun rhymes for young readers! Discover the delightful world of Animals in Vehicles, a captivating journey that combines vibrant illustrations with engaging rhymes, perfect for sparking imagination in young readers.

Chris Sanders is an Irish-born, Liverpool-raised, now New Zealand based singer-songwriter and children's book author. Chris believes that his talent for singing and writing stems from having been subjected to endless traditional Irish storytelling songs, classic Liverpool music like the Beatles (of course), and having three amazing girls around him daily in his wife and two daughters to give him...

Amy's Dreaming Adventures tells the story of Amy, a little girl who loves adventures. Every night, her dreams transport her to a magical place filled with mystical creatures and beautiful scenery. Is it real or just a dream? Amy knows, do you? This is a gorgeous hardback book filled with exquisite illustrations and a beautiful rhyme that will captivate you...

One day, a child's Feelings grow so big they jump out like a bear – stomping, roaring, squeezing and spinning everything into chaos. No matter how hard they try to shout them away or throw them in the bin, the Feelings won't leave. In this engaging and empowering story, the child discovers a different approach. By slowing down, sitting with...

A heart-warming story about discovering new places, foods and faces... about finding your family’s roots and planting your own. A Gift for Ana begins with: "That first night in Samoa, Ana slept next to her grandmother on an old bed with sheets that smelled of mothballs. Now it was morning and as she opened her eyes, Ana saw that the...

When Robbie Walker’s father dies of cancer, he takes out his anger on anyone near. In the hope of saving what remains of their family, Robbie’s mother sends him off to spend the summer holidays on Uncle Jim’s farm where his father grew up. There, in a hidden valley called Paradise, Robbie discovers a new friend — a creature thought...

Lisa and her family and friends are camping. Lisa’s dad takes them on a tramp and teaches them bushcraft skills. Everyone’s excited about map reading and using a compass, rock climbing and crossing a river safely. They all find they’ve got skills to be leaders by supporting the team in different ways and helping others to shine. Except Lisa –...

Lisa Carrington Rescues a Rascal follows Lisa and her family and friends as they embark on a camping adventure. During the trip, Lisa's dad takes them on a tramp, teaching them valuable bushcraft skills. The group is thrilled to learn map reading, using a compass, rock climbing, and safely crossing rivers. As they all discover their own leadership abilities, they...

Oh no, the little kiwi builder's house is falling down! His screws have all come loose - what can he do? When the brickie, the plumber, the roofer, the sparky and the painter all come to help, it's looking good! Until, that night ... uh-oh! Perfect for: Anyone who likes fun and silly rhyming stories Reading aloud with little ones...

Come inside and meet the Drizzles who make the rain. A couple of monsters who like dressing up. A little house that has an adventure. Some pirate rats and gulls who fight over a delicious pie. Some trees who have a party. And a clever little pig who saves her brothers and sisters from a mean wolf! With its delightful...

The popular little digger is brought in to dig a new swimming pool at the local primary school. This time it is the little digger that causes problems, hitting a water main and causing the school to close for the afternoon. The Little Yellow Digger Goes to School is a delightful story that captivates young readers as it combines the...

Who knew that zoo animals went home each night, after working at the zoo? After a long day's work at the zoo, the animals all head back to their respective homes, making their way back to the zoo the following morning, just like the rest of us do! Some ride public transport, some take a jog, some hitch a ride,...

Sometimes Sophie worries — not during the day when she is busy with family and friends, but at night when everything is calm and quiet. What if her favourite shirt is still in the wash and she can’t wear it at the weekend? Or what if she forgets her packed lunch and has nothing to eat at school? Her worries...

Sometimes Sophie worries — not during the day when she is busy with family and friends, but at night when everything is calm and quiet. What if her favourite shirt is still in the wash and she can’t wear it at the weekend? Or what if she forgets her packed lunch and has nothing to eat at school? Her worries...

Poor Flash! Trouble seems to follow him around... Bad Dog Flash is all about a playful young puppy, as they are. Unfortunately, his play seems to get him in trouble all the time, whether it be chasing the cat, digging a hole in the garden to hide (or find) his bone, or even just bringing a stick to the door!...

Discover the magic of ancient Egypt by actually going there. In this fun and informative, illustrated travel guide for young explorers, travel back with intrepid tour guide, Tiny, to ancient Egypt. Experience the everyday magic of Kemet (as it was known locally) at the time of Pharaoh Ramesses II, and discover all the exciting things to see and do whilst...

Count all the sleepy residents of The 123 Tree before bedtime. The sun is setting over the forest, and the moon is starting to shine on The 123 Tree. It’s time to meet the residents as they go about their different bedtime routines. The mice are brushing their teeth, the bears are having a bath, and the squirrels are reading...

From a majestic mermaid to a clay woman, the creator of glaciers to the mother of gardening, discover powerful wahine and how their stories shaped the world around us. Wahine introduces readers to twelve purakau of brave, bold, and inspiring women of Aotearoa. A beautifully illustrated collection that will delight the whole whanau, from award-winning illustrator Isobel Joy Te Aho-White....

What happens when a grumpy tupua has to sneeze? Matihe! Achoo! is a bilingual story about the tupua Mataoho and his connection to the volcanoes of Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland. It comes with an action song to engage young readers! He pūrākau e pā ana ki a Mataoho me ngā puia o Takamaki Makaurau. He tupua pukukino a Mataoho e noho...

As the sun rises, which creatures come to life and greet the day? This beautiful picture book explores the busy world of the daytime creatures in Aotearoa New Zealand's bush. It includes many reo Māori phrases that we use to greet others. Kai pai te rā! From the author and illustrator of the best-selling companion book Te Ngahere i te...

The gannet, or tākapu, must set off through the skies to find food for her chick. When she spots a feeding frenzy far below, she needs to act fast. Will she plunge through the waves in time? Can she avoid danger beneath the surface? And will she make it home with a meal for her waiting chick? Tākapu the Lone...

The popular children’s picture book The Very Hungry Caterpillar, translated into te reo Māori, is now available in a board book. With the same beautiful illustrations and dye cut pages as the original book, the te reo Māori board book retains the humour and quirky character of the little caterpillar and simplicity of the story.

In this original reo Māori story, there’s a monster on the loose. Not just any kind either, the most wily kind – a tickle monster, a taniwha tōkenekene! Will our main character, a four-year-old girl with her tohorā plushie, outwit and outrun the taniwha, or will she be caught in fits of giggles? Discover the delightful and playful story of...

Look carefully! It’s a game of hide and seek on every page in this mental workout for toddlers—and grown-ups. Who’s hiding? Who’s crying? Who’s backwards? The answers to these questions are not as simple as they appear, and children and adults return to them again and again, fresh every time. In this sturdy board book edition of the bestseller Who's...

A very first introduction to the captivating stories of Charles Dickens, one of the greatest storytellers of all time. The First Works of Dickens is part of the playful Little Literary Greats bio series for babies and young readers. This stylish, cased board book provides a very first introduction to the classic stories of Charles Dickens. Meet the novelist at...

I’ve lost my tooth. I’ve lost my tooth. It just fell out, and that’s the truth. Little Vampire Who Lost a Tooth is ready for a night of biting ... until his tooth falls out! Certain his biting days are over, he turns to his spooky friends for help. Ice cream, toffee, lollipops and soup all offer tasty distractions but...

'Tis the season for Hairy Maclary, Slinky Malinki and all the rollicking gang, with this Christmas colouring book packed with fun, festive colouring scenes and puffy stickers! Head out the gate and into the festive season with Hairy Maclary and all the gang! This fun Christmas colouring book comes with over 50 puffy stickers for children to use however they...

Margaret Mahy's bestselling classic, The Man Whose Mother Was a Pirate, is reimagined with delightfully whimsical illustrations from Emma Collicott, the winner of the 2025 Margaret Mahy Illustration Prize. Sam lives an ordinary life in a big city far away from the ocean with his mum. He wears an ordinary brown suit every day to his ordinary job in an...