Welcome to our round-up of brilliant new children’s books out this March! From delightful picture books for tiny tots to riveting reads for teens, there’s something here for every young bookworm. Let’s dive in and discover your next family favourite!
Ages 0–5
Hand Holds: Love by Fiona Munro, illustrated by Laura Hambleton
A heart-warming board book with an attached plush heart that little ones can carry around wherever they go. Perfect for easing separation anxiety, this sweet, rhyming story follows a family of bears and reminds children that love stays with us, even when we feel far away.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
Hand Holds: Star by Fiona Munro, illustrated by Laura Hambleton
A cosy bedtime companion! This board book features a plush star that slips out and can be kept under a pillow, helping children to send their worries away for a restful sleep. With soothing illustrations and a gentle narrative, it’s ideal for a calm night-time routine.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
Ages 3–7
The Tractor Has a Wobbly Wheel by Tim Saunders, illustrated by Carla Martell
A cheery picture book about a tractor that just won’t stay in one piece – luckily, the farm animals are here to lend a hoof (or trotter, or hoof, or snout!). Filled with fun farmyard antics and bright illustrations, this story will delight little readers who love seeing teamwork in action.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
My Mum is the Best by Nic McPickle, illustrated by Tommy Doyle
A joyful celebration of mums of all kinds, from their penchant for comfy trackies to giving the world’s biggest hugs. Told in energetic rhyme and brimming with humour, this is sure to become a read-aloud favourite for Mother’s Day or any day you want to say “thank you” to Mum.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
The Rabbit, the Cloud and the Rainy Day by Nicola O’Byrne
When a grumpy Rabbit decides he doesn’t like the rain, he squeezes the cloud into his bag—only to learn from Duck how important a little rain can be! Featuring a joyful surprise rainbow pop-up, this is a lovely tale about caring for our environment.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
Roald Dahl (Little People, Big Dreams) by Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
A charming introduction to the life of the famous children’s author—warts and all. From his school misadventures to his much-loved (and sometimes controversial) stories, children will learn how Dahl’s imagination changed the landscape of kids’ books forever.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
Ages 7–11
Bravepaw and the Clawstone of Rotwood Mire (Bravepaw 2) by L.M. Wilkinson, illustrated by Lavanya Naidu
Join Titch (a gallant little mouse) and her friend Huckleberry on their quest to save Alluria! Featuring brave mice, brainwashed squirrels, and a greedy turtle, this fully illustrated chapter book will spark young imaginations and keep them hooked until the last page.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
Ages 8–12
Violet and the Velvets by Rachael King
Rock out with 12-year-old Violet Grumble, who’s on a mission to conquer BandChamps with her makeshift group, The Velvets. A tale packed with music, friendship, mystery, and a dash of ADHD-powered determination—proving that sometimes all you need are three chords and a dream!
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
Ages 8–13
Moonboy by Anna Ciddor
When Letty discovers that she can slip back to 1969—and meets Keith in his bedroom!—she experiences the excitement of the first moon landing. But time-travel is risky business: could her meddling accidentally change history? A mesmerising blend of sci-fi, history, and pure wonder.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
Ages 11–14
Spirit of the Crocodile by Aaron Fa’Aoso and Michelle Scott Tucker with Lyn White
Set in the Torres Strait, this inspiring novel follows 12-year-old Ezra as climate change threatens his beloved island home. Faced with powerful storms and tough decisions, Ezra’s journey highlights the strength of community, culture, and courage in the face of environmental challenges.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
Ages 12–16
Bear by Kiri Lightfoot
Thirteen-year-old Jasper’s life is crumbling around him—and he can’t shake his terrifying nightmare. With his mum’s boyfriend moving in, a sick goldfish, and a distant dad, Jasper feels like everything is falling apart. A humorous and heartfelt exploration of anger, anxiety, and acceptance.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
Ages 12–18
Darkest Night, Brightest Star by Barry Jonsberg
Morgan is determined to impress his dad on the footy field, but life has other plans. Injuries, a new friend, and a surprise reunion with the mother he barely remembers force Morgan to figure out who he really wants to be. This thoughtful coming-of-age story explores masculinity, identity, and compassion.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
Ages 14–18
Song of a Blackbird by Maria van Lieshout
Two intertwining timelines—one set in WWII-era Amsterdam and one in the present—come together in a remarkable, true-story-inspired graphic novel about family connections, resilience, and the power of art. A gripping tale that history buffs and art-lovers alike will devour.
Where to buy in NZ: Paper Plus | Whitcoulls | Mighty Ape
Happy reading!
We hope these new titles brighten up your bookshelves this March. Whether you have a tiny tot or a keen teen, these books promise hours of fun, adventure, and discovery. Head over to your favourite New Zealand retailer—be it Paper Plus, Whitcoulls, or Mighty Ape—to order your copies, and don’t forget to share the joy of reading with friends and whānau.
Stay tuned for more exciting children’s releases, and let us know which stories capture your heart!
