Almost double the size of last year’s inaugural, more than 80 exhibitors will have toys, children’s clothing, books, and baby gear on display and organisers Debra Dufty and Amber Thomas show no signs of backing away from making it bigger. 

“We thought we’d do it as a one-off, it would be heaps of fun, but halfway through setting it up we realized it could be more,” says Dufty, who came up with the idea over coffee with Thomas. Both are business owners and mums of young children and were looking for some one-stop shopping. 

Apparently, many other Wellingtonians are, too. This year they’ve rented TSB Bank Arena, a necessary step up from the Town Hall after last year’s overwhelming turnout. In addition to shopping for goods and services from unique retailers, they’ve striven to make it a day the entire family will enjoy. Facepainting, clowns, trampolines, and a mobile petting zoo from Staglands will entertain kids, while there will be pram parking, baby changing areas, and cafes to make things easier for parents. 

“It’s the perfect place where you can find all of your child related needs under one roof,” says Dufty, who adds that ample underground parking should make this the perfect thing to do, rain or shine.

“It’s going to continue to be an annual event in Wellington,” says Dufty. “My dream would be to go around the entire concourse at Westpac stadium.”

All About Kids Expo, TSB Arena, June 17, 9am-4pm.