The People's Choice - Vote now!

About My Business

Muddy Kids NZ is a small, wahine-owned business based in Tāmaki Makaurau, dedicated to providing free play, nature-based programs for tamariki aged 5-14. Founded by Jo Luff and Lexi Longman, the organization draws on their extensive eight-year experience specializing in outdoor free play. Jo and Lexi's professional journey began with Jo's work in unstructured self-directed play through Nature Kindergarten and Play and Learn. Their paths crossed while training teaching staff for outdoor programs in Auckland, leading to a successful collaboration. The duo's rich experience includes working with Conscious Kids, starting and running the Nature Kids co-op, and ultimately founding Muddy Kids. This collaboration, built on both a strong friendship and professional rapport, has enabled them to continually enhance and expand their offerings. A unique aspect of Muddy Kids is its longstanding relationship with Long Bay Regional Park, where they are now entering their ninth winter of operation. This location provides an ideal natural setting for the programs they offer. Muddy Kids emphasizes a low adult-to-child ratio of 1:8, ensuring each child receives ample attention and care. The programs are technology-free, allowing children to immerse themselves fully in nature. They are child-led, encouraging kids to explore, create, and learn at their own pace. The experienced staff are committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where children can engage in play-based learning. This approach not only nurtures the children's creativity and independence but also helps them build strong connections with nature and each other. The Muddy Kids team is passionate about creating spaces where children can enjoy unstructured play, free from the constraints of modern technology. Their dedication to low ratios, nature-based play, and experienced staff ensures a high-quality, enriching experience for every child involved.

Why We Should Win The Peoples Choice Award

Muddy Kids deserves the People's Choice Award for its exceptional dedication to reconnecting children with nature and fostering a love for learning through outdoor play. In a time where screen time dominates, Muddy Kids offers a vital antidote by providing affordable, enriching experiences that promote physical activity, creativity, and social skills development. Our founder , Jo 'Freeplay' Luff's inclusive approach ensures that all children, including those who may struggle in traditional educational settings, have access to these transformative experiences. By empowering kids to explore and learn in natural environments, Muddy Kids is not only shaping happier, healthier children but also creating a positive impact on their communities.