Kiwi Kids Crown Hasbro’s Top Toys of 2025 on What Now!

Kiwi Kids Crown Hasbro’s Top Toys of 2025 on What Now!

Kiwi kids have spoken! After weeks of toy testing, laughs, and “scientific” scoring on EPICNESS, Hasbro New Zealand and TVNZ’s What Now have officially revealed the Top Toys of 2025 — as chosen by the real experts: kids.

Three What Now toy testers — Ella, Lilly, and Xavier — put 20 of Hasbro’s hottest toys through the ultimate challenge to decide which ones truly ruled playtime. Viewers at home then joined in to cast their votes for their favourites, helping decide which toys would make it to the top.

And now, the results are in!

The Official What Now Hasbro Top Toys of 2025

  • Transformers EarthSpark Optimus Prime Battle Trailer
  • Play-Doh Barbie Designer Fashion Show
  • Operation Electronic Board Game
  • Beyblade X Drop Attack Battle Set
  • Peppa’s Big Family House
  • Nano-mals
  • NERF Loadout Galactic Commander
  • Monopoly Free Parking Expansion Pack
  • Furby Cotton Candy
  • Rebounce

This year’s favourites reflect a mix of nostalgic classics and exciting new innovations. The timeless Operation Electronic Board Game once again proved it’s still a family favourite, while Furby Cotton Candy brought a 90s icon back to life for a new generation.

The newest craze, Nano-mals, also captured hearts — adorable, pocket-sized digital pets that blend fun, friendship, and fidget play all in one.

Hasbro New Zealand’s Brand Manager, Stuart McAskill, says:

“It’s always amazing to see the joy and imagination Kiwi kids bring to toy testing. Their feedback reflects exactly what makes play so special — creativity, laughter, and connection. These Top Toys truly represent what will be lighting up Christmas trees this year.”

The What Now Toy of the Year segment aired on Sunday, 12 October, celebrating all things playtime and giving Kiwi families a sneak peek at what will be the must-have toys this Christmas.

Watch the What Now Toy Testers segment here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7b1mud55lFc

Download official press images here:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/o6br9n6va95bwte2hcd1c/AKMFmAB_RuKYHz1MjqU1VYY?rlkey=crbbwygo8wlhqgpaacuph8h8d&st=qtdv3b8z&dl=0

Contact Information

  • Name: Misty Johnston
  • Title: On behalf of Hasbro NZ
  • Phone: 021449680
  • Email: misty@filter.co.nz

 

Image url: https://newzengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/HAS2102-TWL-Media-Assets-Top-Toys-Desktop-1332x350p.jpg

BEYBLADE X National Champion Crowned – Kiwi Blader to Represent New Zealand in Tokyo

Source: Hasbro NZ

BEYBLADE X National Champion Crowned – Kiwi Blader to Represent New Zealand in Tokyo

Auckland, NZ – Sunday 20 July
The battle is over and a New Zealand champion has emerged! The BEYBLADE X National Tournament came to an epic close at The Maritime Room in Auckland City, where top bladers from across the country spun, clashed, and competed for a single, coveted title.

The venue buzzed with excitement as fans, families, and fierce competitors gathered for an unforgettable day of high-stakes battles and Beyblade action. After hours of elimination rounds, one blader rose above the rest to claim the national title:

    • Winner was: CHARLIE ROSS-MATENGA 
    • Age:  11 years old 
    • From location: FOXTON BEACH
    • Beyblade Winning Combo: Charlie won with Beyblade – Wand Wizard against his opponent Oliver Bagley’s Beyblade – Sword Dragon. 
    • About:  Charlie drove from Foxton to Auckland with his guardians Sue & Patrick for his first ever Beyblade Tournament. 
  • Tournament placings:  
    • First Place: Charlie Ross – Matenga (11 years) 
    • Second Place Oliver Bagley (8 years) 
    • Third Place:  Eden Palmer (11 years) 

Charlie will now go on to represent New Zealand on the world stage at the BEYBLADE X World Finals, taking place at Tokyo Tower, Japan, on October 11–12, 2025. There, they’ll compete against top international bladers in the ultimate showdown.

From next-level tactics to true sportsmanship, the NZ tournament captured everything that makes Beyblade a global phenomenon. With fans cheering from every corner of The Maritime Room, it was a celebration of community, competition, and the power of the spin.

To follow Charlies road to Tokyo and stay up to date with future tournaments, visit www.beyblade.com or follow @officialbeyblade on Instagram.

Pictures:  

Caption: Beybladers Eden Palmer battles for 3rd place

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ebyj8Jstzu0lSz8jbnK2JF44z4h_HrLd/view?usp=drive_web


Caption: Winner Charlie Ross-Matenga & family

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GPO4BlIYKepKVCgOh9Zh5Elddbqz5osB/view


Contact Details:

For press, interviews or any further information, please contact:

  • Name: Vanessa Hughes
  • Entity: Filter PR
  • Title: Account Director
  • Phone: 021 868 410
  • Email: vanessa@filter.co.nz

Calling Kiwi Kids: NZ’s Biggest Beyblade X Event could send you to Toyko

Source: Hasbro NZ

Hasbro invites young Beyblade Fans across Aotearoa to PROVE IT IN BATTLE – with a chance to represent New Zealand on the world stage in Tokyo!

For years, BEYBLADE has captured the hearts of kids who love speed, strategy, and high-intensity spinning battles. Now, one lucky Kiwi Blader could turn that passion into the ultimate prize — a trip to Tokyo, Japan, to compete at the BEYBLADE X World Championships.

The BEYBLADE X National Tournament will take place in Auckland on Sunday, 20 July, and is free to enter for kids aged 8–12 from across the country. This high-energy event promises fierce competition, epic match-ups, and one unforgettable opportunity to crown New Zealand’s top Blader.

What’s at Stake?

  • The title of BEYBLADE X NZ National Champion
  • A trip to Tokyo Tower for the World Championships in October
  • BEYBLADE X glory for the winner — and their whānau!

Whether your child is a seasoned Blader or just loves the thrill of the game, this is their moment to shine. Help us spread the word and give Kiwi kids a shot at spinning their way to greatness.

Event Details:
Date: Sunday, 20 July
Location: Maritime Room, Princes Wharf, Auckland
Ages: 8–12 years
Entry: Free (You must register to secure a spot)
Register Now: https://www.hasbroeventsaunz.com/

Let’s give Kiwi kids the chance to LET IT RIP on the world stage!

Contact Information

  • Name: Vanessa Hughes
  • Title: Event & PR Manager
  • Phone: 021 868 410
  • Email: vanessa@filter.co.nz

Introducing NEW Selaks Origins Breeze 5%

Selaks, a pioneer in New Zealand’s wine industry, proudly unveils Selaks Origins Breeze 5%, a revolutionary addition to its portfolio.

Launching this August, Selaks Origins Breeze 5% makes its timely debut following Dry July, pioneering Selak’s first ever 5% alcohol offering in New Zealand. Each bottle promises an easy-drinking experience with just 3 standard drinks per 750ml bottle at 5% ABV.

Research consistently indicates a growing demand for lower-alcohol beverages. Consumers are increasingly mindful of their alcohol intake and are actively seeking options that allow them to enjoy wine in moderation. This shift reflects a broader cultural movement in New Zealand towards more responsible drinking habits.

The Origins Breeze range uses the Piquette method, a traditional technique originating from France. Piquette is made by rescuing already pressed winemaking grapes and giving them a second squeeze, resulting in a refreshing range that includes a crisp Piquette from Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, a summer berry-infused Piquette Rosé, and a vibrant Piquette from Pinot Gris.

“Utilizing the traditional Piquette method, we’ve crafted fruit wines that not only minimize waste but also maximize the vibrant fruit flavors that define our fruit wines.” said David Edmonds, Chief Winemaker at Selaks. 

Crafted with innovation and waste reduction in mind, this range caters to wine enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers alike, seeking a flavourful, lighter option without compromising on taste.

“At Selaks, we’re excited to introduce the Origins Breeze 5% range, a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation,” added Edmonds.

“We’ve focused on creating a product that captures the bright, fresh characteristics of our fruit, appealing to a broad spectrum of consumers,”

Selaks Origins Breeze 5% is poised to redefine expectations of lower-alcohol fruit wines, offering a delicious choice for any occasion.

About Selaks: 90 Years of Winemaking

Founded with a rich heritage, Selaks is celebrated for crafting exceptional New Zealand wines that honor tradition while embracing innovation. Since Marino Selak arrived from Croatia in 1906, he and his nephew began creating wines that have become favorites across New Zealand, marking the start of Selaks’ legacy of excellence in winemaking.

From their humble beginnings in West Auckland to their current home in the Hawke’s Bay, they’ve built a legacy steeped in tradition and passion. Each bottle carries the essence of those who have shaped its creation, preserving the spirit of their winemaking family through the generations. Selaks’ commitment to quality and excellence has traveled far beyond borders, embraced by wine lovers across the globe.

For more information about Selaks Origins Breeze 5% visit www.selaks.co.nz