The Playful Place

The Playful Place is a sensory-specialist occupational therapy service based in Napier, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. It supports children aged 2–18 and adults, with a focus on sensory processing differences, neurodivergence, complex or developmental trauma, and premature birth. Its approach combines sensory integration with trauma-informed and neurodivergent-affirming care, aiming to create welcoming spaces where people feel safe, understood, and supported.

Services include face-to-face and online individual therapy, occupational therapy assessments, tailored parent coaching, and group programmes. These include LEGO-Based Therapy social skills groups, Food Explorer groups for people with ARFID or selective eating, and therapy for siblings or families. The service also offers mentoring and supervision, as well as online workshops and professional development.

For organisations, groups, and communities, The Playful Place provides customised training, workshops, and keynote conference presentations. Topics include sensory needs in classrooms, sensory modulation and trauma, emotional regulation, and LEGO-Based Therapy facilitation. Appointments are available Monday to Saturday in Napier, and the team can travel throughout New Zealand for private or whole-team bookings.