Board games that actually get played.
Lakes and Ladders is a friendly pop-up where you can learn a game in minutes, try it with your group, and grab a copy to take home.
Perfect for hostels, travellers, rainy days, and “we want to do something tonight” energy.
How it works
Simple, fast, no awkwardness1) Pick your vibe
Party, strategy, co-op, two-player, quick filler, or “teach us something weird”.
2) We teach the rules
We’ll do a crisp intro, first turn guidance, and set you loose.
- Beginner-friendly
- Fast setup
- Zero intimidation
3) Play + take it home
Try before you buy when available, or grab a recommendation you’ll genuinely replay.
- Gift suggestions
- Traveller-friendly sizes
- Group-proof picks
Find your kind of fun
Curated categories (replace with your real inventory later)Quick & loud (10–20 mins)
Perfect for pre-drinks, common rooms, and big groups who want instant energy.
- Easy to learn
- Lots of laughter
- Low downtime
Brainy & satisfying (30–60 mins)
For people who want clever choices, tense moments, and a proper win.
- Strategy / tactics
- Co-op puzzles
- Light to medium weight
Chill & social (20–45 mins)
Talky games, deduction, storytelling, and “I can’t believe you just did that” moments.
- Social deduction
- Creative party
- Conversation starters
Traveller-friendly (small box)
Easy to pack, easy to set up, and great in cafes or on rainy days.
- Compact
- Fast setup
- 2–6 players
Pop-up times & bookings
February pop-upsUpcoming pop-ups
Drop by for a quick demo, a browse, or to grab a new game for the trip.
- Thursday 5th Feb: 12–1, 3–4
- Friday 6th Feb: 10–5 (periodically)
- Saturday 7th Feb: 12–1, 3–4
- Sunday 8th Feb: 6–7 (Lates and Ladders Event)
Book a game table
Want to buy, learn and play a larger game? We're partnered with the Beach Tree pub, and will happily show you the rules to any of our larger products there after any selling period. Just let the staff know on the stall, and we can pop up once our time selling is done, and help guide you through your first game.
- Group size
- Time slot
- Game name
Find us in Otago
Pop-up • markets • partner venuesWhere we operate
The stall is located on Beach Street, just outside the turnoff for the Beach Tree pub.
At the junction of Beach Street, approximately half way down, look for “The Beach Tree” swinging sign.
Map
Visit us at our current pop-up location.
Work with us
Hostels, bars, cafes, eventsHost a pop-up
We bring games, teach rules, and create an easy “instant activity” for guests.
Game nights
Run a regular night at your venue—newcomer-friendly and staff-light.
Private groups
Birthdays, team nights, travellers—tell us the vibe and we’ll curate.