This floor puzzle teaches tamariki about the amazing tuatara, a special reptile that has been alive since the time of the dinosaurs. Long ago, during the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods, giant dinosaurs walked the Earth — and the tuatara lived during those times too. While the dinosaurs became extinct, the tuatara survived. Today, tuatara live only in Aotearoa New Zealand, making them very special to our country. They are often called a “living fossil” because they have changed very little over millions of years. As children build the puzzle, they explore ancient time periods, learn how animals survive over long periods of time, and discover why the tuatara is unique to Aotearoa, all through fun, hands-on play.
Puzzle piece numbers can be customised depending on your specifications, with standard options including 9-piece, 16-piece,18-piece, 32-piece, and 42-piece versions — making it easy to choose the right challenge level. Ideal for whānau time, classrooms, or as a standout gift, this puzzle invites tamariki to explore courage, clever thinking, and perseverance through play, while building a deeper understanding of Māori storytelling and cultural identity.
