There is something extra special about creating a furry friend that is completely your own.
At Build-A-Bear Workshop, children and families can choose a new friend, bring it to life, give it a name and personalise it with clothing and accessories. From selecting the perfect furry friend to taking part in the special heart ceremony, every step becomes part of a memorable experience.
The Build-A-Bear Workshop experience is available at selected Toyworld stores across New Zealand.
Planning your first visit? Here is everything you need to know about experiencing Build-A-Bear at Toyworld.
What is Build-A-Bear Workshop?
Build-A-Bear Workshop is an interactive experience that lets you create and personalise your own furry friend.
Rather than simply choosing a soft toy from a shelf, you get to be involved in bringing your new friend to life. You can select the character you love, help fill it with stuffing, take part in the heart ceremony and choose clothing and accessories to create a look that is uniquely yours.
Whether you are creating a classic teddy bear, discovering a favourite character or choosing an entirely new friend, every Build-A-Bear can have its own name, personality and style.
How does Build-A-Bear work?
Not sure what to expect during your first Build-A-Bear visit? The friendly team in store will help guide you through the experience.
1. Choose your furry friend
Start by exploring the available bears, animals and characters to find your perfect new friend.
The range may change, so there could be something new to discover each time you visit.
2. Bring your new friend to life
Once you have made your choice, it is time to fill your furry friend with soft stuffing.
You can help decide how soft or cuddly you would like your new friend to be before it is carefully hand-sewn closed in store.
3. Take part in the heart ceremony
Before your furry friend is completed, you can take part in the signature Build-A-Bear heart ceremony.
This is one of the most memorable parts of the Build-A-Bear experience. A special heart is placed inside your furry friend before they are finished and ready for their next adventure.
4. Choose clothing and accessories
Now it is time to create your new friend’s look.
Explore the available outfits, shoes and accessories to find a style that suits their personality. You could dress them for everyday adventures, bedtime, a favourite hobby or a special occasion.
Clothing and accessories are optional, so you can decide how much you would like to add to your Build-A-Bear experience.
5. Give your friend a name
Every new friend needs a name.
Choose something funny, sweet, adventurous or completely unique. Naming your furry friend helps make them feel like part of the family from the moment you take them home.
Where can I find Build-A-Bear at Toyworld?
Build-A-Bear Workshop is available at selected Toyworld stores across New Zealand.
Participating stores currently include:
- Toyworld Manukau
- Toyworld Newmarket (COMING SOON)
- Toyworld Dunedin
New locations may be added in the future, so visit our dedicated Build-A-Bear Workshop page for the latest participating stores, contact details and information to help plan your visit.
Find your nearest Build-A-Bear at Toyworld
How much does Build-A-Bear cost?
The cost of your Build-A-Bear experience will depend on the furry friend you choose and whether you decide to add clothing or accessories.
Each furry friend is individually priced, with optional outfits, shoes and accessories available to help create a more personalised look.
This means you can keep the experience simple or add extra details to suit your occasion and budget.
Prices, ranges and availability may vary between participating Toyworld stores. Visit our Build-A-Bear Workshop page or contact your chosen store for the latest information.
Do I need to book Build-A-Bear?
Visit requirements may vary between participating stores and may depend on the type of experience you are planning.
We recommend checking the Build-A-Bear Workshop page or contacting your chosen Toyworld store before visiting, particularly during weekends, school holidays and other busy periods.
For group visits, birthdays or special celebrations, speak directly with the participating store to discuss what may be available.
What age is Build-A-Bear suitable for?
Build-A-Bear is designed to be an enjoyable experience for children and families, but grown-ups can join in too.
Younger children may enjoy choosing a cuddly companion and helping with the heart ceremony, while older children can express their style through outfits and accessories.
Build-A-Bear can also appeal to teens, adults and collectors looking for a favourite character, meaningful keepsake or thoughtful personalised gift.
Parents and caregivers should supervise younger children throughout the experience, particularly when selecting clothing and smaller accessories.
Can I buy clothing for a Build-A-Bear I already own?
Yes! You do not always need to create a new furry friend to enjoy visiting Build-A-Bear at Toyworld.
You may be able to choose new clothing and accessories for a Build-A-Bear you already own. This can be a fun way to refresh your friend’s look for a new season, hobby or special occasion.
Available sizes, characters and styles may vary, so check with your participating Toyworld store if you are looking for something specific.
A special gift for birthdays and celebrations
A Build-A-Bear can be much more than a soft toy. The experience of choosing, creating and naming a furry friend can become part of the gift itself.
A Build-A-Bear experience could be a thoughtful choice for:
- Birthdays
- Christmas
- School holiday treats
- Celebrating an achievement
- Welcoming a new sibling
- A special day with grandparents
- A keepsake from a family day out
Because every furry friend can be personalised, the finished creation can reflect the recipient’s favourite character, style or interests.
Why families love Build-A-Bear
The Build-A-Bear experience gives children the opportunity to make their own choices and be part of creating something special.
They are not simply receiving a new toy. They are choosing their friend, helping bring it to life, taking part in the heart ceremony and deciding what personality it will have.
The finished furry friend can also encourage imaginative play long after the visit. Children can create stories, adventures and new outfits for their friend at home.
It is an experience and a keepsake all in one.
Frequently asked questions about Build-A-Bear at Toyworld
Which Toyworld stores have Build-A-Bear?
The Build-A-Bear Workshop experience is available at Toyworld Manukau, Toyworld Newmarket (COMING SOON) and Toyworld Dunedin.
Is Build-A-Bear available at every Toyworld store?
No. Build-A-Bear is available at selected Toyworld stores in New Zealand. Visit our Build-A-Bear page to find participating locations and plan your visit.
What happens during a Build-A-Bear visit?
You can choose a furry friend, help bring it to life, take part in the special heart ceremony and personalise it with optional clothing and accessories.
Have more questions about pricing, availability, clothing and visiting your nearest store?
Visit our Build-A-Bear Workshop page for more information
Create a new furry friend at Toyworld
Ready to begin your Build-A-Bear adventure?
Visit a participating Toyworld store to choose a new friend and make it your own.
From the special heart ceremony to finding the perfect outfit, the Build-A-Bear experience is filled with choices, creativity and special memories to take home.
Find your nearest Build-A-Bear at Toyworld
