We’re working to make our libraries more welcoming for those with sensory needs
Kia ora and welcome to our sensory space where you can find out more about what sensory support we have available in our libraries and also get involved in the planning for a dedicated sensory space in our new city centre library opening in 2026.
A new sensory space to be built in our city centre library
A new sensory space is coming to our city centre in 2026 as part of the new Library and Community Hub currently under construction at Te Manawataki o Te Papa on Willow Street.
The room is designed to offer a welcoming and calming environment, particularly for those who are neurodivergent or have sensory processing needs, providing a space where people can feel comfortable and supported while visiting the city centre.
The room will be equipped with a variety of sensory tools, including soft lighting, soundproofing elements, tactile items, and calming visuals, all designed to create an environment where visitors can relax, focus, or take a break from sensory overload. The new sensory room is kindly supported by the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board.
Planning your visit with sensory needs in mind
We understand that visiting one of our libraries can require extra planning when you or someone you care for has sensory needs. Our staff understand this and are there to support you and welcome you when you arrive.
Here are a couple of helpful notes when planning your trip:
- Access - Use our free access map to find accessibility information near our libraries including carparks, playgrounds and toilets. Tauranga Access Map.
- Noise - to manage the impact of noise we recommend you check what’s on in the library you are visiting to avoid busy days. Sunday is usually our quietest day to visit, and we have headphones available at our front desks.
- Social Stories – We have online guidebooks available to help children and neurodivergent individuals feel comfortable and confident before visiting the library. They can take a virtual tour, learn what to expect, and discover all the fun things they can do at their local library. Designed with accessibility in mind, these guides support a calm and welcoming experience for everyone. You can download these guides on our school visits page.
Sensory Storytime
Join our free Sensory Storytime which includes 30 minutes of songs, rhymes, and interactive stores/picture books in a calm environment, followed by 20 minutes of sensory play. Sensory Storytime creates a safe, welcoming environment using a specialized, interactive approach combining visual, auditory, and tactile elements where kids can explore stories at their own pace and comfort level. This inclusive experience encourages language development, enhances motor skills through hands-on activities, and fosters social connections in a way that feels enjoyable and accessible.
Sensory Storytimes are held at Te Ao Mārama - Greerton Library and Te Ao Mārama - Pāpāmoa Library during the school holidays and also on a Saturday morning each term. If you would like to be added to our contact list for Sensory Storytime notifications, or would like further information, please email library.visits@tauranga.govt.nz
Request a Sensory Backpack
We have sensory backpacks available in all our libraries for people to use while visiting, just ask at the front desk when you arrive. The backpacks include headphones, dark glasses, several fidgets, a weighted snake or shoulder hugger, a communication card, and a set of calm-down cards with suggestions of calming activities.
Wear your sunflower lanyard
We have adopted the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative, which is a globally recognised programme designed to help individuals with non-visible disabilities such as autism, hearing or vision impairments, anxiety, or chronic pain. By wearing a sunflower lanyard, wristband, or badge, individuals can discreetly indicate that they may require additional support, time, or assistance. This programme is important in fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can feel supported and respected. Our staff are fully trained and for more information on the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, please visit their website.
Share your thoughts on plans for the new sensory space
We have been listening to community views to help us plan for our new sensory space in the city centre, to ensure the experience and equipment is suitable for everyone. So far, we have had feedback from sensory advocates and educators in Tauranga, as well as feedback from parents and carers of children with neurodivergent needs. From community insights we are planning for the space to be a calming space with tactile, light, sound, as well as cause-and-effect experiences. The room will be on the first floor of the library, some distance from the main busy area of the library. The room size is 5.3m X 6.5m, with storage, natural light, black-out blinds, and a projector wall space.
As we progress with our planning, we are open to ideas and feedback that will make this space the best it can be for our community.
To share your thoughts, or request to be kept up to date with our new sensory space, send us an email to library@tauranga.govt.nz.