Families visiting IKEA Sylvia Park from 4 December will find more than furniture and flatpacks.

The store’s new Småland play area offers children aged 3–8 a safe, supervised space to explore while parents shop or relax.

Småland, a free in-store play zone inspired by the forests of southern Sweden, has been a favourite feature in IKEA stores worldwide.

Children can enjoy a 30-minute play session, or up to 60 minutes for IKEA Family members on weekdays, while parents browse nearby knowing their little ones are in good hands.

Rikki Mackenzie Burdon, Market Sales and Customer Experience Manager at IKEA New Zealand, says Småland captures IKEA’s family-friendly spirit.

“Småland embodies IKEA’s belief that children are our most important customers. By blending play, imagination and downtime, we’re offering the ultimate in-store experience for families.”

Småland. Photo: Supplied

Inside, kids can climb and crawl through the Active Zone’s tunnels and soft-foam shapes, get creative at the craft tables, or chill out in the Quiet Area with comfy seating and G-rated films.

Each session is supervised by trained IKEA co-workers who have passed safety checks and Småland-specific training.

Småland operates daily from 9am to 8.30pm, with space for up to 30 children per session.

No bookings are needed, just register at the entrance and you’ll be notified when it’s time to pick up your child.

With many Hibiscus Coast families expected to make the drive south for IKEA’s grand opening, Småland could make a day of shopping a little easier and a lot more fun for both kids and parents.

Seen something local we should cover?

Let us know at [email protected]