A NEW children’s stay and play focusing on roleplay has opened in Christchurch.

Little Treasures Village Stay and Play is aimed at 0 to 7-year-olds and offers a range of activities to keep them entertained including diggers, fake cooking and more.

Owner Kia has spent the last few months perfecting the space which is now open.

Kia said: “I was inspired to do the stay and play, as it’s something myself and my best friends used to talk about doing in the future.

“I had worked in nurseries for 10 years and still wanted to work with children but not the super long hours that nurseries consist of as I have my own child now and wanted to spend time with him too.

“All of our customers in the first week of opening have been so lovely and many have returned for a second or third visit. Everyone has been so complimentary on how lovely the space is and how different it is to anything they’ve visited before.

“A lot of children also like roleplay so that’s a big part of the soft play.”

Kia added: “The first days of opening were honestly filled with anxiety and nerves with a little bit of adrenaline.

“Knowing I was fully booked everyday was incredible but also so scary, I wanted to make sure I pleased everyone. I’m feeling lots better now and I can’t wait to greet more families.

“I think that is something that Christchurch has needed and everyone that's come in has said they'll be back because there’s nothing like this in the area.

“I will be looking into different sessions and would love to include SEN sessions for additional needs children/families and party packages too.”

Before opening on August 27, Kia posted on social media to speak about her business, she said: “I cannot believe I can finally say we have made it.

“I am stuck for words that probably not making sense right now, but I couldn’t wait any longer to share with you.

“We hope you love it.”

The children’s centre is located inside Trove in Saxon Square, Christchurch.