Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about donating items, what we accept, and how we help whānau and pēpi. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Get in touch — we’d love to help.
What are your most needed items?
Clothing (size prem – 1 year)
- Knitted cardigans, jackets, vests
- Hats and beanies
- Booties and socks
- All-in-ones / stretch & grows
- Long & short sleeved bodysuits / onesies
- Pants
- Tops (short and long sleeved)
Blankets and bedding
- Blankets (wool, cotton or natural fibres)
- Baby sleeping bags
- Bassinet and cot sheets
Other
- Baby towels
- Disposable newborn and infant size nappies
- Baby toys (wooden or plastic preferred)
- Books (hardcover and softcover)
- Wipes
- Bottles
- Breast pumps
- Burp cloths
- Wool or natural fibre yarn or fabrics for our crafters
- Baby baths
Where can I drop off my donation?
Search for your nearest drop-off location here.
Can we post or courier donations?
Of course! Contact us and we’ll let you know the best place to post or courier to.
How do I suggest or become a collection point?
We’d love to hear from you and chat about what’s involved. Please contact us!
What donations do you accept?
We love new, pre-loved and crafted baby and children’s essentials. Our greatest need is generally books, baby clothing (prem to size 1), blankets, bedding and nappies. We also collect wool and fabric (natural fibres) for our crafters, The Nest Makers. For the few items we’re unable to accept, see our Donate baby items page.
What do you include in your packs?
I have knitwear, but it isn’t pure wool — is this OK?
Yes, but please note that we can only give acrylic knitting to babies over 6 months of age, as an outer layer.
Do you collect clothing and bedding that isn’t pure wool, merino or cotton?
Yes we do. We cannot give polar fleece blankets to young babies, but we can turn small blankets into our famous playmats, and larger blankets can be given to older children.
Do I need to pre-wash the clothing and bedding before donating?
We do prefer this, but if not, we have volunteers who will wash your donation. If you’re unable to wash them, please just check that they’re free from obvious stains and dirt.
Do you accept second-hand bassinets, moses baskets and cots?
Yes, we do! We love donations of clean, mould-free safe sleeping spaces. Cots need to comply with NZ safety standards.
I know someone in need. How do they request help?
All our items are gifted via social workers, midwives, nurses and a number of charity partners. We recommend families speak with their midwife or a social worker. Alternatively, please contact the branch in their area — our volunteers can put them in touch with someone nearby.
Can I donate money?
Yes! All the details are on our Donate financially page.
How can I get involved?
There are so many ways to help us!
- We love donations of items or money.
- You could become one of our crafters — find out more about The Nest Makers.
- We’re always excited to welcome new volunteers, with roles big and small — collecting, sorting and packing items, washing, or helping with administration.
Still have a question?
We’re always happy to help — reach out and we’ll get back to you soon.