Our Story
Outplay. Outlearn. grew out of our own childhoods.
We were lucky enough to grow up roaming outdoors - building huts, climbing trees, exploring the seaside, and spending long days in the kind of free play that sticks with you for life. Those experiences shaped how we see the world, and how strongly we believe children belong in nature.
But childhood has changed. Families are busier than ever, and it can feel surprisingly hard to create the time and space for outdoor play.
Outplay. Outlearn. exists to make that easier.
We create welcoming opportunities for tamariki and families to step outside, slow down, and reconnect with the natural world. Through forest kindy/nature playgroup, forest school, and School holidays wild days programmes, children are free to climb, build, explore, imagine, and develop confidence in real landscapes.
Because humans didn’t evolve indoors. We belong in forests, fields, rivers and weather. This is our way of helping families return to that.
Meet our team
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Hayley - Co-founder
Hayley grew up on the edge of the beautiful Orongorongo Ranges, spending long days climbing trees, biking trails, and roaming the hills behind her family home.
Her background as a Project Manager in education technology and climate research gives her strong operational, risk, and compliance expertise, so programmes are carefully planned, well run, and safe. She is trained in first aid and holds a horticulture certification, which she uses to help tamariki notice and connect with the natural world.
Hayley is mum to one adventurous little boy. Taking him outdoors from a young age helped settle him, improved his mood, and eased the everyday stresses of parenting, which sparked her passion for giving families regular access to the health and developmental benefits of nature.
Outplay. Outlearn. provides exactly that: well-run outdoor programmes where tamariki can explore, follow their curiosity, and engage with nature in all seasons, because the outdoors offers both challenge and reward.
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Emmie - Co-founder
With over 13 years in the NZ Police and a background that includes time in the UK Defence Force and LandSAR, Emmie brings a calm, capable presence to the outdoors.
Emmie was raised by the sea in a small fishing village in the south west of England where life centred around nature and community. She has travelled widely, and is a keen hiker with a deep love for wild places.
Her love of simple, outdoor living runs deep, and she's passionate about creating space for children to play freely, connect with nature, and follow their instincts. As a mum of three, she understands how overwhelming it can be - particularly with little ones in tow - simply to get out the door. She is eager to support and encourage families to feel more confident getting outside with their little ones, even when it feels like a challenge.
That commitment is at the heart of Outplay. Outlearn., where Emmie helps build welcoming, inclusive outdoor programmes that give tamariki the freedom to explore and play, while fostering connection between families and their communities.
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Our Amazing Facilitator - details coming soon
Step inside our world
Outplay. Outlearn. is a nature playgroup based in Selwyn NZ, created for families who believe that the best learning happens outdoors.
Treasure
Childhood is precious and fleeting. We believe it should be treasured, and lived with wonder. Tamariki deserve the freedom to discover their own capabilities, imagine boldly, and grow with confidence. Through child-led free play, we give them the grace to explore their own ideas and grow at their own pace.
Trust
We step back so tamariki can step forward—discovering their capabilities, building resilience, and learning who they are. Mistakes, risk, and raindrops are not things to fear but pathways to growth. Time in nature is a powerful catalyst for this development, supporting children to become capable, curious, and well-equipped for life. In this natural, unhurried environment—without rush, competition, or tick boxes—they can thrive.
Tribe
Community is our superpower: big laughs, open hearts, and real support. Out here, muddy boots and messy hair are the uniform, laughter is the soundtrack, and fresh air is the reset button. We do our best to make everyone feel welcomed, supported, and part of something that truly matters.
Thrive
We embrace kaitiakitanga, acting with deep respect for our interconnected world. We show tamariki the beauty and wonder of the land we love, recognising that to raise the next generation of guardians, they need to experience the natural world with their own hands and hearts. We lead by example, striving not just to tread lightly but to act in ways that restore and regenerate—strengthening our local places and supporting the wider environment. Our goal is simple: to leave the world better than we found it.
