Book events and opportunities for writers calendar
Our calendar is full of book events and opportunities for writers organised by bookish groups throughout Aotearoa. Whether it’s a festival, book launch, award, grant, poetry reading or live storytelling event, never miss a book event or writers' opportunity in your community again!
Please list your event by clicking the button below. If you are listing a series of events, please note that the event title for each listing must differ in order for the listings to be displayed correctly.
- All upcoming Past
- September2021
- October2021
- November2021
- December2021
- January2022
- February2022
- March2022
- April2022
- May2022
- June2022
September
Get You the Moon Book Launch
Cherry Publishing is releasing Get You the Moon, a young adult romance between rivals. To celebrate, Time Out Bookstore in their upstairs space will be hosting an event. It'll start at 5:30pm and finish at 8:30pm.
There'll be finger food, copies to buy and you can bring your own copy to be signed. There'll be giveaways and readings from the book.
Release date for the book is yet to be announced!
NZSA Roadshow - Tamaki Makaurau
The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ Inc) Regional Roadshow brings professional development to the regions
Closed to Public
Timaru Writers in Schools visits by David Riley
Auckland-based author David Riley is visiting schools around Timaru this week.
Storylines Masterton Tour incl Caterton and South Wairarapa
The Storylines National Story Tour sends four leading authors and illustrators to visit schools, early childhood education centres, community groups and libraries on each of its tours each year.
Going West Festival - Documented Reality
In concurrent sessions across two venues, our second Going West Live event will deliver powerful readings from established and emerging writers, punchy conversations about critical contemporary issues and provocative performance poetry. This event covers non-fiction, documentary, journalism, creative non-fiction, fact-based poetry and narratives of resistance.
Poetry Slam at Your Place - Online Event
New Zealand's only regular online poetry slam! Always online and always pay-what-you-can-afford, because accessibility is important, irrespective of lockdown status.
Book launch: Te Papa to Berlin by Ken Gorbey
Join us in celebrating the launch of 'Te Papa to Berlin: The making of two museums' by author Ken Gorbey (Otago University Press).
School Holiday Programme - Curious Tamariki Titirangi
Curious Tamariki at Te Uru
Tu Meke Tūī! Live On Stage (Tauranga)
Adapted from the popular children's book by Malcolm Clarke. A Tu Meke Tūī! and Auckland Live production. Presented by Tour-Makers.
School Holiday Programme - Future Past Present
Te Uru's next school holiday programmes.
The Final Choice Book Tour – Warkworth
Hear and meet best-selling author and journalist Caralise Trayes.
NZ Young Writers Festival // Exquisite Corpses and Collaborative Choices
A very special Ōtepoti Writers Lab session to celebrate the magic of collaboration!
NZ Young Writers Festival // Write Like A Witch
Free yourself from self-criticism and learn how to slip into flow-state at this psychologically minded writing workshop.
NZ Young Writers Festival // Otago Poetry Slam
Open to slam poets of any age, with the winner representing the Otago Region in the national competition.
NZ Young Writers Festival // Flesh and Bone
Readings from writers who whakapapa Pasifika and Māori curated by Faith Wilson and Essa Ranapiri.
NZ Young Writers Festival // Put It Through The Machine: Idea Generation For Comedy
Join award-winning comedy writers Abby Howells and Rosie Howells as they take you on a journey through your own mind to generate ideas for your next project - whether it be for a stand-up set, a feature film or a play.
Tu Meke Tūī! Live On Stage (New Plymouth)
Adapted from the popular children's book by Malcolm Clarke. A Tu Meke Tūī! and Auckland Live production. Presented by Tour-Makers.
NZ Young Writers Festival // Dunedin Zinefest!
Come browse, buy and blow your own mind at the annual Dunedin Zinefest! Sample the DIY wares of local poets, illustrators, artists, designers and zinesters.
NZ Young Writers Festival // How To Write A Bad Play
Fall into failure and free yourself from the fear of it with award-winning playwright Nathan Joe.
NZ Young Writers Festival // Zinefest: Wake n' Make
Come make a zine of your very own while you peruse the stalls at the Dunedin Zinefest! An open space to come hang, have some fun and make whatever you want. We’ll bring the supplies you bring the inspiration! Zinesters will be on hand to help you craft a zine of your very own.
Wayne Youle: Elevation
Open Tues-Sun, 10am-4:30pm
An exhibition of new work made during the artist's McCahon House residency.
NZ Young Writers Festival // How to Speak Words and Influence People: Performance Poetry
National Slam Champion, poet and toast enthusiast Jordan Hamel is here to teach you how to talk. Not really, but he IS here with a fun and friendly workshop to help you explore different ways of performing your words, prep for the Slam Competition tonight, and answer the question: what is performance poetry anyway?
NZ Young Writers Festival // Big Bad Book Quiz!
Come test your literary knowledge at this fun and friendly pub quiz! Hosted by Radio One whizz Henessey Griffiths.
NZ Young Writers Festival // Juvenalia: Visions From Our Youth
How well do you remember your childhood? How well could you remember someone else’s?
NZ Young Writers Festival // Don't Read The Comments: Navigating The Modern Media Landscape
Playwright and culture editor for The Spinoff, Sam Brooks talks about working in the media in a modern age, using his experience of working across a range of publications, both online and print.
NZ Young Writers Festival // The Personal is Publishable
Personal essays and op-eds are dynamite right now, but there’s much more to a good one than just a fiery anecdote.
NZ Young Writers Festival // No Country For Young Playwrights
Being a playwright in Aotearoa means existing in a niche within an already tiny niche.
Nz Young Writers Festival // Fern Fronds on Fire: Climate Poetry
Climate change is crucial to how we imagine our futures and make choices.
Tree of Strangers Book Launch
Join us for the Auckland launch of an exquisite new memoir by Barbara Sumner.
Nz Young Writers Festival Opening: Now We Are Six
It's the official opening of the sixth annual NZ Young Writers' Festival and we want to celebrate with you!
NZ Young Writers Festival
The New Zealand Young Writers Festival (NZYWF) is an annual four-day programme of workshops, panel discussions and performances by and for young writers.
The Final Choice Book Tour - Hamilton
Hear and meet best-selling author and journalist Caralise Trayes.
The Final Choice Book Tour – Tauranga
Hear and meet best-selling author and journalist Caralise Trayes.
Tu Meke Tūī! Live On Stage (Auckland)
Adapted from the popular children's book by Malcolm Clarke. A Tu Meke Tūī! and Auckland Live production, presented by Tour-Makers.
On the last afternoon: Disrupted Ecologies and the Work of Joyce Campbell
Open Tues-Sun, 10am-4:30pm
The first substantial presentation of Joyce Campbell's practice.
The Final Choice Book Tour - Palmerston North Evening Event
Hear and meet best-selling author and journalist Caralise Trayes.
The Final Choice Book Tour - Palmerston North Daytime Event
Hear and meet best-selling author and journalist Caralise Trayes.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Te Kahu Rolleston
Tauranga based slam poet Te Kahu Rolleston is visiting schools around Te Whanganui a Tara this week for Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori.
Book launch for The Length of a String by Elissa Brent Weissman
Join author Elissa Brent Weissman to celebrate the NZ release of her new children's novel, The Length of a String.
Manawatū Writers Festival 2020
Manawatu Writers’ Festival is for writers, readers and would-be writers, featuring workshops, talks, readings, panel discussions, seminars and performances on a wide range of topics, presented by top-notch New Zealand authors.
Virtual Book launch of Vaporbyte by Cat Connor
Come and celebrate the launch of the 12th and final Byte Series novel: Vaporbyte by Cat Connor. This book releases in all digital formats on Sept 10, and as two versions.
Tales of The Telling Time - Wellington
Meet Pip McKay, author of The Telling Time
The Final Choice Book Tour - Manukau
Hear and meet best-selling author and journalist Caralise Trayes.
Tales of The Telling Time -Manawatu-Whanganui
Meet Author of The Telling Time Pip McKay
Going West
Regretfully cancelled, due to Covid; For 25 years, Going West has led the way for readers' and writers' festivals in Aotearoa. Under the forested maunga of Titirangi in west Auckland, we gather most compelling, innovative and diverse group of story tellers that Aotearoa has to offer.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Maria Gill
Auckland based author Maria Gill is visiting schools in Whanganui this week ahead of her appearance at the Manawatu Writers Festival.
Under the Gun: An Introduction to Crime Fiction
5 sessions every second Mon 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
To register visit https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/cceshortcourses
If you are a fan of the whodunit, interested in crime fiction or wondering what to watch on Netflix next, this introduction to international crime fiction is for you
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Kyle Mewburn
Otago based author Kyle Mewburn is visiting schools in Canterbury this week.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Philippa Werry
Wellington based author Philippa Werry is visiting schools in Canterbury and Otago this week.
The Final Choice Book Tour - Dargaville
Hear and meet best-selling author and journalist Caralise Trayes.
Poetry Lab
This is a peer-driven workshop for poets of all levels. You will work with other writers to encourage the art of poetry where your peers offer honest, positive and constructive feedback on your work. An ideal setting if you like writing poetry and want to improve your writing skills and develop your ‘voice’ in a supportive environment.
The Final Choice Book Tour - Nelson 2
Hear and meet best-selling author and journalist Caralise Trayes.
Annual NZSA Janet Frame Memorial Lecture - 2020 by Paula Morris
The NZSA annual Janet Frame Memorial Lecture is an annual address given each year by the NZSA President of Honour. In 2020-2021 this is Paula Morris. This event traditionally looks at the 'state of the nation' of the literary, writing and publishing scenes.
The Final Choice Book Tour - Nelson Daytime Event
Hear and meet best-selling author and journalist Caralise Trayes.
The Final Choice Book Tour - Nelson
Hear and meet best-selling author and journalist Caralise Trayes.
WRITERS ON MONDAYS: Flight across Worlds: Elizabeth Knox and Craig Cliff
Flight across Worlds: Elizabeth Knox and Craig Cliff
Greg O'Connell VERSE UNIVERSE
Join one of Christchurch’s wittiest wizards of words for an unforgettable evening of poetry.
https://events.humanitix.co.nz/greg-o-connell-verse-universe
Double Book Launch | Moth Hour by Anne Kennedy & Listening In by Lynley Edmeades
Unity Books Wellington, Auckland University Press & Otago University Press warmly invite you to attend the combined launch of two new poetry collections, 'Moth Hour' by Anne Kennedy (AUP) & 'Listening In' by Lynley Edmeades (OUP). Moth Hour will be launched by Elizabeth Caffin.
With live music by Bill Lake. All welcome.
Book Launch | Fifteen Million Years In Antarctica by Rebecca Priestley
Unity Books Wellington and Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Fifteen Million Years in Antarctica' by Rebecca Priestley. All welcome.
BWB Talks: Treading Water
Join Mike Joy, Tina Ngata and Peter Fraser in conversation with Maria Bargh (chair) on solving New Zealand's freshwater crisis.
Writers on Mondays: Short Sharp Script 2: CIRCA Theatre
Short Sharp Script 2: CIRCA Theatre
The Uncomfortable Glass Slippers celebration
Come along to find out if your short story has won a prize, hear all about Michele's new book, win prizes for fancy dress and join in heaps of fun games like pin-the-tail-on-the-unicorn! (No unicorns harmed in this game).
Book Launch | 'Lost and Somewhere Else' by Jenny Bornholdt & ''Always Song in the Water' by Gregory O'Brien (AUP)
You are warmly invited to the joint VUP and AUP launch of 'Lost and Somewhere Else' by Jenny Bornholdt (VUP) & 'Always Song in the Water'
by Gregory O'Brien (AUP). All welcome.
150 year anniversary of the birth of the poet Karl Wolfskehl
On Tuesday 17th September at 6pm there will be a celebration of the 150th birthday of Karl Wolfskehl in the Goethe-Institut in Wellington.
Author Talk: Someone's Wife by Linda Burgess
In conversation with Kiran Dass, Linda Burgess will talk about her new collection of essays.
Writers on Mondays: Short Sharp Script 1: CIRCA Theatre
Short Sharp Script 2: Circa Theatre
Donovan Bixley Book Launch
Little Unity will celebrate the end of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week) with the launch of Donovan Bixley’s new pukapuka.
Donovan Bixley presents the latest adventure in his Tales of Aotearoa series, a fresh take on Māui which brings the cheeky trickster to life for a new generation of Kiwi kids.
Paint n’ Pen: Free Creative Writing Workshop - 15 Sept
Write a short story, a poem or some lyrics inspired by Christchurch's rich street art and get published! We are offering a series of workshops plus guided tour to work on your ideas. Open to writers, budding and established, of all ages.
Featherston Goes Gobbledegook—A Joy Cowley event
Featherston Booktown and Gecko Press are celebrating the joyous new anthology of much-loved poems and stories by Joy Cowley, The Gobbledegook Book, illustrated by Giselle Clarkson.
Editing your Creative Writing
A one day workshop on editing. Bring a piece of your own creative writing to work on. To book, go to www.cecwellington.ac.nz
Lunchtime Author Talk | John Connolly
Unity Books Wellington and Hachette NZ warmly welcome you to an author talk with John Connolly.
David Hill presents the Janet Frame Memorial Lecture
Announced as the NZSA's 2019-2020 President of Honour, eminent and award-winning children's writer David Hill will be delivering the Janet Frame Memorial Lecture in the Pioneer Women's Hall at the Ellen Melville Centre.
This is a free event. Wine and various nibbles will be served.
Tessa Duder - First Map tour - Nelson
Meet Tessa Duder, and hear the story of how James Cook charted the first map of Aotearoa New Zealand 250 years ago. This talk is based on Tessa's new book, First Map, illustrated by David Elliot.
Book Launch | The Absolute Book by Elizabeth Knox
Unity Books and Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'The Absolute Book' by Elizabeth Knox, to be launched by Anna Smaill.
CITIES OF LITERATURE SHORT PLAY FESTIVAL
Dunedin UNESCO City of Literature is partnering with Theatre Studies at the University of Otago to host a special celebration of new writing as part of the University’s 150th anniversary celebrations.
CITIES OF LITERATURE SHORT PLAY FESTIVAL
Dunedin UNESCO City of Literature is partnering with Theatre Studies at the University of Otago to host a special celebration of new writing as part of the University’s 150th anniversary celebrations.
Tessa Duder - First Map tour - Christchurch
Meet Tessa Duder, and hear the story of how James Cook charted the first map of Aotearoa New Zealand 250 years ago. This talk is based on Tessa's new book, First Map, illustrated by David Elliot.
Meet John Connolly
Meet John Connolly! John will be available to meet fans and sign books upstairs at Time Out on the early evening of September 11.
Tessa Duder - First Map tour
Meet Tessa Duder, and hear the story of how James Cook charted the first map of Aotearoa New Zealand 250 years ago. This talk is based on Tessa's new book, First Map, illustrated by David Elliot.
Rugby 123 / Whutupōro 123 Book Launch
Scholastic New Zealand and The Children's Bookshop invite you to join Thalia Kehoe Rowden in celebrating the launch of this new book!
Book Launch | Promises Promises: 80 Years of Wooing New Zealand Voters by Claire Robinson
Unity Books Wellington and Massey University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Promises Promises: 80 Years of Wooing New Zealand Voters' by Claire Robinson. All welcome.
Writers on Mondays: The Next Page 2
The Next Page 2
Adapting to Society - Life in A Doll's House
Director Katherine McRae, writer Emily Perkins, and actors Sophie Hambleton and Simon Leary join playwright and 2019 Robert Burns Fellow, Emily Duncan, for a discussion about how women’s lives have changed since the character of Nora in A Doll's House was first conceived. Includes a scene reading and time for questions, followed by tea and coffee.
Let's Go There
A one-day workshop with Rajorshi Chakraborti which explores writerly limits in prose and how to negotiate them.
A Doll's House by Emily Perkins
A Q and A with writer Emily Perkins, Director Katherine McRae and members of the cast of A Doll's House, by Emily Perkins, based on Ibsen's original, following the performance on Friday, 6 September.
Gareth Ward (The Great Wardini) on Tour!
Gareth Ward – magician, storyteller, bookseller and author – will be touring the country to celebrate the launch of his latest book, The Clockill and the Thief, a follow up to his bestselling debut The Traitor and the Thief.
Book Event | The Little Ghost Who Lost Her Boo! by Elaine Bickell & Raymond McGrath
Following the official launch in Auckland of the award winning "The Little Ghost who lost her Boo" it's time to celebrate in Wellington.
Children's Author Talk | An Hour of Books and Magic with Gareth Ward
Join us at our special after-school event as we host Gareth Ward - magician, storyteller, bookseller and author - as he celebrates the launch of The Clockill and the Thief.
Gareth will talk about his experience of being a writer, talk about his books and sprinkle in some magic tricks. This would be a great event for kids aged 10 to 15.
Kid's Author Talk: The Gareth Ward Hour at Time Out Bookstore
AN HOUR OF
BOOKS & MAGIC! Upstairs at Time Out Bookstore!
us at our special after school event as we host Gareth Ward - magician, storyteller, bookseller and author as he celebrates the launch of The Clockill and the Thief.
Writers on Mondays: The Next Page 1
The Next Page 1
Paint n’ Pen: Free Creative Writing Workshop - 1 Sept
Write a short story, a poem or some lyrics inspired by Christchurch's rich street art and get published! We are offering a series of workshops plus guided tour to work on your ideas. Open to writers, budding and established, of all ages.
BiblioHub
BiblioHub is Depot Artspace’ inaugural celebration of Devonport’s rich literary community; its writers, writing collectives, readers clubs’, book outlets and bibliophiles .
Celebrating Max Rashbrooke’s new book: Government for the Public Good
Join us at the National Library to celebrate Max Rashbrooke’s new book 'Government for the Public Good: The Surprising Science of Large-Scale Collective Action', a fast-paced and globally informed defence of the role of government in delivering the public services that shape our lives.
From Luminous Moments to Island Time: The BWB Texts Story
Join Unity Books Wellington & Bridget Williams Books - BWB as publisher Tom Rennie and various BWB Texts authors discuss the publishing environment and the development of the series, which now numbers over fifty titles.
Writers on Mondays: Short Sharp Script 2
Short Sharp Script 2: Circa Theatre
More exciting work in progress from the second group of IIML scriptwriters, at Circa Theatre. This week the spotlight falls on work from Matasila Freshwater, Dylan Conen, Julia Ludbrook, and Ralph McCubbin Howell. Introduced by Ken Duncum.
Philipa Werry 'Writing from War to Peace'
Philippa will describe her current writing project, based on her visit to Antarctica in 2016.
Ngā Tāngata Kōrero mō te Reo: True Stories Told Live
Come and celebrate Te Wiki o te Reo Māori with a night of storytelling, where writers and creatives share their personal journeys with te reo Māori on the theme of kia kaha te reo Māori.
August
Her Say: In conversation with Jackie Clark
Hear Jackie Clark discuss Her Say, a powerful book that holds a collection of stories told by New Zealand women who have lived with and escaped an abusive relationship.
Closed to Public
South Island Writers in Schools visits by Mary-anne Scott
Hawke's Bay-based author Mary-anne Scott will be visiting schools in South Canterbury and Central Otago this week.
POSTPONED (Date TBC): Book Launch | The Adventures of Mittens
You are invited to the launch of 'The Adventures of Mittens' written by Silvio Bruinsma and illustrated by Phoebe Morris. All welcome.
Michael King Writers Centre - Applications for 2022 Residencies OPEN
New Zealand’s national writer-residency organisation announces its 2022 Writers in Residence Programme.
POSTPONED (Date TBC): Poetry Idols - National Poetry Day
National Poetry Day 2021: Poetry Idols, featuring Carolyn DeCarlo, Chris Tse, Freya Daly Sadgrove, Jordan Hamel, and Sinead Overbye.
Poetry Day Writers in Schools visits by Daisy Lavea-Timo
Christchurch-based slam poet Daisy Lavea-Timo is visiting two schools in North Shore today as part of their celebrations for Poetry Day.
Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day
First established in 1997, National Poetry Day is a one-day national poetry event extravaganza held on a Friday in late August each year.
Men's Book Group Meet Up
Did you know that just 16 of BDS's 1293 book groups around New Zealand are comprised of men only? That's less than 2%.
We'd like to invite you to help us change that.
POSTPONED (Date TBC): Book Launch | Sea-light by Dinah Hawken
Unity Books and Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Sea-light', a new collection of poetry by Dinah Hawken. All welcome.
POSTPONED (Date TBC): Author talk | After the Tampa by Abbas Nazari
Join us to hear Abbas Nazari discussing his remarkable refugee journey from Afghanistan to New Zealand. All welcome.
Word Christchurch Festival 2021
WORD Christchurch is a world-class festival of writing and ideas
The core of the festival is renowned authors discussing their work, showcases of poetry and song, expert panels debating local and global issues, youth and school programmes designed to inspire a love of reading and writing, and a wide range of fun, festive special events.
POSTPONED (date TBC) Book Launch I National Identity by Simon Bridges
Join Simon Bridges plus Tova O'Brien and Danyl McLauchlan to celebrate the launch of National Identity. All welcome.
Literary Taxidermy Competition 2021
This year the international Literary Taxidermy competition has taken Katherine Mansfield as its muse, using the first and last lines of a Mansfield story and a Mansfield poem as the 'skin' for you to stuff with your own creative filling. Entries close Sunday 26 September PDT. There's a cash prize as well as the opportunity to be published in the next Literary Taxidermy anthology!
Book Launch | Starfish the Star by Elaine Bickell & Daron Parton
Come and celebrate the launch of Elaine Bickell's latest picture book, Starfish the Star, published by Scholastic. All welcome.
Book Launch | Khumbu: Gateway to Mount Everest Pathways To Kinship
Join author and photographer Peter Laurenson at the launch of his new book, 'Khumbu: Gateway to Mount Everest ─ Pathways to Kinship'. All welcome.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Mary-anne Scott
Hawke's Bay-based author Mary-anne Scott is visiting schools in Wellington this week.
Storylines Southland Tour incl Invercargill and Gore
The Storylines National Story Tour sends four leading authors and illustrators to visit schools, early childhood education centres, community groups and libraries on each of its tours each year.
Going West Writers Festival - Gala Night
Always a sellout, Going West’s traditional centrepiece presents a celebration of ideas, oratory and performance. This year’s Gala Night promises to match the best of the past in an enhanced theatrical setting — the heritage listed Glen Eden Playhouse, a spectacular Edwardian building with great public transport access.
Poetry as Spell-Casting - A Writers Practice Workshop with Lynn Davidson
Explore, in writing, readings, and discussion, how poems cast spells through transformation, surprise, incantation, and evocation.
Register now at https://writerspractice.nz/events/poetry-spellcasting/
Book Launch | The Madison Gap by Patricia Donovan
Patricia Donovan, Mary Egan Publishing and Unity Books warmly invite you to the book launch of "The Madison Gap", to be launched by Norman Bilbrough. All welcome.
Launch of 'Protest! Shaping Aotearoa'
You are warmly invited to the launch of Protest! Shaping Aotearoa, by Mandy Hager:
12 August
5.15 – 6.30pm
Vic Books Pipitea, 27 Lambton Quay, Wellington 6011
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by David Riley
Auckland based author David Riley is visiting schools in Whangarei this week.
Celebrate children's books in Wellington
Unity Books and Gecko Press welcome you to a New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults event.
NZ Book Awards for Children and Young Adults
Schools event, awards ceremony and announcement of winners of 2021 NZCYA Book Awards
For any enquiries about the 2021 NZCYA Book Awards, please contact childrensawards@nzbookawards.org.nz
Book Launch I Alicia McKay's You Don't Need an MBA
Join us for the launch of Alicia McKay's latest book 'You don't need an MBA".
All welcome!
BOOK LAUNCH: Enough Horizon
Enough Horizon tells Blanche's story, her successes and her struggles: a troubled upbringing with a mentally ill mother in London, and her emigration to New Zealand in 1900, where she embraced the freedom it gave her to write and think and enjoy the wilderness she grew to love. It was here, particularly in her beloved Akaroa, that Blanche's writing and interests in the environment and her advocacy for the vulnerable in society flourished. She was a botanist, conservationist, humanitarian and prison reformer, who strove for the effective and humane treatment of prisoners. Blanche met and corresponded with leading writers, thinkers and scientists of her day, including John Ruskin, and poets Jessie Mackay and Ursula Bethell.
Children's Writers and Illustrators Networking Lunch
A casual lunch and chat with other children's writers, illustrators and bibliophiles.
NZSA Whanganui Roadshow
JOIN US for an invigorating day of professional development offering keynote sessions, workshops, masterclasses, and discussions, with a catered morning tea/coffee and lunch.
Romance Writers of New Zealand 2021 Conference
"Love Finds A Way" - Romance Writers conference 2021
Books Alive Special Event - Egg & Spoon
LIANZA (Library and Information Association of New Zealand) and the New Zealand Book Awards Trust are bringing together another year of Books Alive online events and virtual storytimes.
Egg & Spoon, an illustrated cookbook, is a finalist in the Elsie Locke Award for Non-Fiction. Support our Books Alive event through your participation!
Book Launch: The Leaning Man
Anne Harré , Good Books and The Cuba Press warmly invite you to the launch of The Leaning Man
Tokoroa launches new book for Cook Islands Language Week
A new book is being launched in Tokoroa during Cook Island Language Week this August.
Hamilton Book Month 2021
A month long celebration with discussions, talks, workshops and storytimes
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Glenn Colquhoun
Horowhenua based author Glenn Colquhoun is visiting schools in Auckland this week.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Tim Jones
Wellington based author Tim Jones is visiting schools in Tasman and Nelson this week.
Tales of The Telling Time - Canterbury
Join author Pip McKay
Storylines National Story Tour - Auckland Region
Applications for Story Tour visits in 2020 are OPEN!
Sensory Storytime
Join Gameedah Jonas, Christie Roberts and Meenu Wadhwa for a very special storytime where we go on a multisensory journey together! Have a go with the library's sensory toys, and explore your imagination and senses with an engaging dinosaur story. The sensory programme is suitable for all ages and is free to attend. This event is in partnership with Hamilton City Libraries.
Waikato Wordsmiths
Ever wondered about the breadth and diversity of Hamilton writers? Here is your opportunity to meet some of them and their recent works. Showcasing a wide range of styles, genres and world views, the readings bring Hamilton writers and audiences together for an afternoon of entertainment and dialogue. This event is in partnership with Waikato Writers and Associated Artists (local branch of NZ Society of Authors).
Rainbow Storytime
Erika and CoCo Flash are two drag queens (one cis male, one cis female) from Taranaki who present shows about acceptance, inclusiveness, diversity and being kind, coupled with dance and games. The preschoolers' session will be a 30 minute show followed by a chat and chance to take photos. All are welcome at any session.This event is in partnership with Hamilton City Libraries.
The Quick and The Dead
Hamilton Book Month
The quick and the dead - a free event
The Final Choice Book Tour - Orewa Daytime Event
Hear and meet best-selling author and journalist Caralise Trayes.
Closed to Public
postponing... Writers in Schools visits by Michel Mulipola
Auckland-based author Michel Mulipola is visiting schools in the Nelson/Tasman area this week.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Des Hunt
Coromandel based author Des Hunt is visiting schools in Waikato this week.
Closed to Public
postponing... Writers in Schools visits by Gareth Ward
Hawkes Bay based author Gareth Ward is visiting schools in Auckland this week.
Featherston Booktown 'Words in Winter' - 'Dead People I Have Known'
Shayne Carter – the cult pioneer of the 1980’s Dunedin sound, New Zealand Music Hall of Famer, and award-winning author of "Dead People I Have Known" will be sharing tales from his autobiography that recently won the Royal Society Te Apārangi Award for General Non-Fiction, and the MitoQ Best First Book Awards: EH McCormick Prize for General Non-Fiction at the 2020 Ockham New Zealand Book Awards with poet and journalist, Richard Langston.
regretfully cancelled... 'Words in Winter' - A Poet's Life, Featherston Booktown
A stellar line up of four cutting-edge Wellington poets will be discussing “A Poet’s Life” with Radio New Zealand presenter, Lynn Freeman. Featherston Booktown audiences will be familiar with Sam Duckor-Jones, Tayi Tibble, and Jordan Hamel but Helen Rickerby, winner of the Mary and Peter Biggs award for Poetry at the 2020 Ockham New Zealand Book Awards, with her book "How to Live", will be a new treat:
Women who speak have always been monstrous.
That twisty sphinx, those tempting sirens;
Better plug your ears with wax, boys.
Poetry Workshop
Richard Von Sturmer is a long time Zen practitioner and an acclaimed New Zealand writer, poet, lyricist and performer.
Being attentive to the present moment, to the natural world and to our own nature, is essential for good poetic writing. In this Hamilton Book Month workshop we will explore haiku and tanka, forms of Japanese poetry.
Poetry Soiree
We are having a special Poetry Soiree at Waikato Museum on National Poetry Day. The evening will begin with drinks and platter food in the foyer before our MC Nick Clothier welcomes everyone and outlines the evening's format. Our featured poet, this year's Writer in Residence Richard von Sturmer, will start the readings. After our invited poets have read we will head to the foyer for further refreshments, book sales and signing.
POSTPONED: Intersections │ Kaituhi │ Black Lives Matter
EVENT POSTPONED – DATE TBC Unity Books Wellington has postponed the Intersections │ Kaituhi │ Black Lives Matter poetry event as we now have a cap on capacity at Unity and would like our events to be inclusive. We will keep you posted when we confirm a new date. Thank you for your understanding and stay safe.
Flash Fiction Workshop
Join author Tina Shaw for this workshop on the craft of writing small. How can you tell a story in only 250-500 words? We’ll look at language, storytelling, world building and how you might push the boundaries of your fiction. You’ll also be writing your own brand-new flash fiction. Come and discover the tremendous universe of writing small.
POSTPONED: Lunchtime event: David Coventry
EVENT POSTPONED – DATE TBC Victoria University Press and Unity Books Wellington have postponed the David Coventry lunchtime event as we now have a cap on capacity at Unity and would like our events to be inclusive. We will keep you posted when we confirm a new date. Thank you for your understanding and stay safe.
Storytelling in the Gallery
Traditional and contemporary stories presented for our youngest preschool visitors and their families. This event is in partnership with Hamilton City Libraries.
Young Adult Writers Panel
Come along and hear our panellists Eileen Merriman, David Hill and Gareth Ward in conversation with fellow YA author Tina Shaw. This event is sponsored by Waikato University and supported by Books For Kids with books for sale and signing. Complimentary refreshments will be served beforehand with a cash bar available.
Out on the Shelves Author Event
As part of our Out on the Shelves campaign, we are hosting an author event, where we will be having live conversations with four published authors from Aotearoa NZ from the rainbow community.
Tune in on Facebook or Zoom to hear from essa may ranapiri, Lil O’Brien, Hera Lindsay Bird and Sam Orchard. They will be sharing a sample of their work, discussing their writing and answering audience questions!
Lockdown Sketch Mind Book Launch - EVENT POSTPONED – DATE TBC
EVENT POSTPONED – DATE TBC - Join us to celebrate the publication of Lockdown Sketch Mind (The Cuba Press), the illustrated Covid-19 lockdown diary of award-winning Wellington author and illustrator Fifi Colston.
Out on the Shelves
Out on the Shelves is an online resource that lists books with rainbow themes and characters, with the aim of supporting rainbow young people to find stories that represent their identities in positive and affirming ways.
Out on the Shelves is also an opportunity to create more visibility in our school and community libraries! Our campaign is a chance for libraries to promote and build their rainbow collections, celebrate these stories and help connect rainbow young people with their stories and with each other.
Lisala Halapua Illustration Workshop
Finalist in the 2017 New Zealand Book Awards For Children and Young Adults, New Zealand-Tongan author and illustrator Lisala Halapua brings his Tongan grandmother's stories to life in his Island Fables picture book series. Lisala will start by reading from his books then talk about his writing and artwork. He'll follow that with an illustration workshop for 5-10 year olds using a mix of drawing media for children to choose from.
Requiem for an Airport
To celebrate the opening of City Gallery Wellington's exhibition Terminal, five speakers deliver requiems for an airport.
Dominic Hoey and essa may ranapiri
Come along and hear poets Dominic Hoey and essa may ranapiri read. Cost $10, cash only. Dominic's I Thought We’d Be Famous and essa's Ransack will be available for you to buy and get signed. This event is in partnership with Never Project Space.
Blokes' Book Club
There’s a new book club in town!
Blokes Book Club meets for the first time at Central Library on Thursday 13 August at 6.30pm facilitated by Mark Caunter, Heritage Librarian. Share your thoughts with like-minded blokes on what you’ve been reading and hear about what others are enjoying. How the book club runs from here will be up to you!
This event is in partnership with Hamilton City Libraries.
AUP New Poets at Unity Wellington - EVENT POSTPONED - Date TBC
Auckland University Press and Unity Books Wellington have postponed the AUP New Poets launch as we will now have a cap on capacity at Unity and would like our evening launches to be inclusive. We will keep you posted when we confirm a new date
Romance and Crime
Join Nalini Singh and Bronwyn Sell (who also writes as Brynn Kelly) as they talk crime and romance with chair and author Nicky Webber. This event is supported by Poppies Bookstore with books for sale and signing.
Disaster on four small paws
... Invasive Predators in New Zealand
Join Carolyn. M (Kim) King for a presentation on her new book on invasive predators in New Zealand which offers a much-needed insight into one of New Zealand’s longest-running national crises.
NZ Children's and Young People Book Awards - LIVE
ON line LIVE ceremony for NZ Children's and Young Peoples book awards. watch here https://www.facebook.com/events/2535627380062629/
Book Launch | Fridays with Jim by David Cohen
We warmly invite you to the launch of Fridays with Jim: Conversations about our country with Jim Bolger, by David Cohen (Massey University Press).
Know Your Place
Come and hear Golriz Ghahraman in conversation with Kelli Pike. Golriz fled her home in Iran aged nine and after a terrifying and uncertain journey, landed in Auckland with her parents where they were able to seek asylum and ultimately create a new life.
Best of Auckland Book Launch
We're delighted to invite you to the launch of ‘Best of Auckland’.
Local Authors event
MC Cate Prestidge will host local authors talking for 3-4 minutes about how they wrote and published their books. At the end of the MC session there will be time when you can approach authors you are interested in for a longer chat.
Please let us know if you are interested in joining other authors to talk about your book.
Some books will be available for sale, and there will be authors signing afterwards, so bring cash!
Free parking available on campus. Enter via Gate 3 on Tristram St.
Jackson Nieuwland Book Launch
You thought you knew who you were, and then you attended the book launch for I Am A Human Being by Jackson Nieuwland (Compound Press).
Literary Pub Quiz
Teams of up to six members are invited to participate in a contest that will test their knowledge of all things literary. There will be eight rounds of ten questions each, plus an additional list round. Categories will include children's literature and New Zealand fiction.
The cost is $10 per person. Registration necessary. Contact Auteur House on (07) 8342485 with queries. Teams are encouraged to take their seats by 6pm and the quiz will commence at 6.30pm sharp. Food and drink will be available for purchase from The Londoner.
LOCKED DOWN AUTHORS: ANNE MANCHESTER, JOHN HORROCKS, PETE CARTER
A lunchtime event featuring Anne Manchester - Memory Stick, John Horrocks - Dark Empire and Pete Carter - This Is Us.
Book Launch | The Inkberg Enigma by Jonathan King
Join us at Unity Books in Wellington to launch filmmaker Jonathan King's first graphic novel for children, The Inkberg Enigma (Gecko Press).
What Are Readers Reading?
An opportunity to come and have an informal chat about what you’ve been reading with other readers facilitated by Maebh Long. Share what you’ve been enjoying and check out what’s new on the library shelves while you’re here. Bring some books to swap with others in aid of a good cause- the Friends of Hamilton Public Library who fund the petrol costs for volunteers who deliver library resources to homebound borrowers. This event is in partnership with Hamilton City Libraries. Entry Fee: $5.00 Cash
A Twist in the Tale: Writing Suspense Fiction
In this course, you will explore pacing, red herrings, unreliable narrators and other writing techniques to make your writing suspenseful and keep your readers on edge. You will write and workshop with others, as well as read and discuss texts by authors who have mastered the art of suspense writing.
Strange Goods Pop Up Shop
New Kirikiriroa 'project space' Never will be hosting a pop-up shop for Auckland book store 'Strange Goods' for the duration of August.
Strange Goods offers a curated selection of multi-disciplinary arts books, publications and objects from across Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Promote yourself as an author!
Kirsten McKenzie will lead a workshop covering:
-how to develop promotional material
-dealing with the media (providing a press release, key points for being interviewed, radio slot preparation etc)
-what makes a good author photo
-how to decide whether to use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, website etc
-how to ask for and use reviews to promote your work
The workshop costs $25 and afternoon tea will be served. Registration required, email hamiltonbookmonth@gmail.com Poppies Hamilton will have Kirsten's books for sale.
Rainbow Writing Competition
As part of our Out on the Shelves campaign, we are running a rainbow writing competition as part of our campaign!
To get involved, submit a piece of writing that features a rainbow experience. That could mean focussing the piece on a rainbow character or exploring rainbow themes… as long as there is a strong link to the rainbow community, then your writing will be eligible to enter!
We’ll be accepting poems of any length and flash fiction of 1000 words or less*. Multiple entries are more than welcome.
Entry age groups are: “Under 16” and “16-24”.
Winners from each age group will win a $50 book voucher thanks to The Women’s Bookshop!
Rocket Storytime
3.2.1. BLAST OFF... !
Join us for Storytime featuring Amy who will read There's a Hedgehog in my Pants and talk about her writing journey. The session will feature a Lego challenge to build a hedgehog. This event is supported by Books For Kids with Amy's book for sale. Come and enjoy a hot coffee or hot chocolate on us. Further information here. This event is in partnership with Hamilton City Libraries.
Hamilton Book Month
20 events throughout August 2020 during Hamilton Book Month
See hamiltonbookmonth.com for details and email hamiltonbookmonth@gmail.com
Giant Book Storytime in English and Te Reo Māori
Join us for a special Storytime session of Margaret Mahy's story A Lion in the Meadow / He Raiona i Roto i Ngā Otaota.
NZ Book Council Lecture: Stories from the Wild presented by Lani Wendt Young
We are thrilled to announce Pacific Laureate Lani Wendt Young as this year’s speaker for the Book Council Lecture in Wellington on August 28. Tickets on sale August 5.
Author talk | Alan Duff: A Conversation With My Country
Unity Books Wellington and Penguin Random House warmly invite you to hear Alan Duff discuss his new book, 'A Conversation With My Country'. All welcome.
DeRay Mckesson: The Other Side of Freedom
This is an unmissable opportunity to hear from one of the world’s leading civil rights activists in conversation with Action Station’s Laura O’Connell Rapira.
In his book, On the Other Side of Freedom, Black Lives Matter activist DeRay Mckesson gives an extraordinary, personal insight into the power of the imagination and what it takes to start a movement to overturn systems of injustice and make way for true freedom.
Writers on Mondays: Rebecca Priestley and Helen Heath
ELECTRIC / ANTARCTIC: Rebecca Priestley and Helen Heath in conversation
How to Speak Your Truth Without Being a Slave to It and the Power of What If
A one-day workshop with Victor Rodger which explores the story that you want to tell in order to find the story you should tell.
Author Talk: Self-Publishing in New Zealand
In 2019 it's easier than ever before to get your book produced through self-publishing. It's also harder than ever to get your book noticed in a noisy publishing market. How do you cut through the noise and make your book stand out? Come along and hear Dave MacManus from The CopyPress in Nelson take you through the steps of self-publishing, from editing and design to getting your book accepted into bookshops.
National Poetry Day | Wild Honey: Reading New Zealand Women’s Poetry
On National Poetry Day 2019 join Unity Books and Massey University Press to celebrate 'Wild Honey: Reading New Zealand Women’s Poetry' by Paula Green.
Paula will introduce readings from carina gallegos, Stefanie Lash,
Therese Lloyd, Maria McMillan and Manon Revuelta.
Four Readings and a Festival
2019 Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day
"Four Readings and a Festival" – SP (Spark Place)
Thursday 22 August 6pm - 7.30pm
Four Christchurch poets talk fame, fortune, first books and what possessed them to do it. Reading from their newborn collections are Erik Kennedy (shortlisted in the 2019 Ockham Book Awards for his collection There's No Place Like the Internet In Springtime), Marisa Cappetta (How to Tour the World on a Flying Fox), Victoria Broome (How We Talk to Each Other) and Gail Ingram (Contents Under Pressure). MC of the panel is Joanna Preston (Kathleen Grattan Award for The Summer King).
Book Launch | Relative Strangers: A Mother’s Adoption Memoir by Pip Murdoch
Unity Books Wellington and Fern Publishing warmly invite you to celebrate the publication of 'Relative Strangers: A Mother’s Adoption Memoir' by Pip Murdoch to be launched by Dame Fiona Kidman.
BWB Talk: Wealth, Wellbeing and Capital Gains Tax: What Next? - Wellington
Will people step up now and take the time to learn, know and feel the history of the places they call home?
Writers on Mondays: Best New Zealand Poems
BEST NEW ZEALAND POEMS 2018
Natalie Haynes presents Troy Story
BBC presenter, writer, Classicist and comedian Natalie Haynes takes on the Trojan War. Based on her latest novel, A Thousand Ships, Natalie’s hour of 'Troy Story’ steers you through the stories of the women at the heart of the greatest conflict in ancient literature.
Settle in for a wild ride from divine pleasure to carnage and aftermath, from the women’s perspective. Your ticket includes a light afternoon tea and the chance to chat with Natalie after the talk.
Thanks to Double Denim for hosting. Proudly supported by The Park hotel.
Natalie Haynes presents Honour Among Thebes
The History of Theatre has never been so much fun.
Writer and comedian Natalie Haynes presents Honour Among Thebes, a lively tour through the early Greek Tragedies and Comedies, from the first performance by Thespis to the raucous sex-strike of Aristophanes’ Lysistrata, via the great tragedies of Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides. Honour Among Thebes is based on Natalies book, The Children of Jocasta which retells the Antigone and Oedipus myths through a refreshingly feminist lens.
Ashton Wylie Trust Literature Awards Evening
The Ashton Wylie Trust Literature awards are unique in the country for their encouragement of writing in the Mind, Body, Spirit genre.
The awards were established in 1999 thanks to a bequest from the late businessman, Ashton Wylie.
The 2019 winners will be announced at a ceremony at Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, Westhaven Marina, in Auckland on Friday 16 August, 2019.
The Book category winner and the Unpublished Manuscript category winner each receive a $10,000 prize.
Lunchtime Author Talk | Nailing Down The Saint: Craig Cliff
Unity Books Wellington and Penguin Random House warmly invite you to celebrate the publication of 'Nailing Down The Saint' by Craig Cliff. Author talk chaired by Brannavan Gnanalingam.
Writers on Mondays: Maria Tumarkin
AXIOMATIC: Maria Tumarkin in conversation with Chris Price
The david merritt poetry experience meets booktown
I'm on tour down and back up the country to promote the publication of three new collections of poetry.
Book Launch - 'Get Organised' by Diane Weatherhead
Diane Weatherhead is launching her new book 'Get Organised - Seasonal Planner for the Southern Hemisphere' .
Double Book Launch | How To Live by Helen Rickerby & AUP New Poets 5: Carolyn DeCarlo, Sophie van Waardenberg, Rebecca Hawkes
Unity Books Wellington and Auckland University Press warmly invite you to attend the combined launch of HOW TO LIVE by Helen Rickerby & AUP New Poets 5: Carolyn DeCarlo, Sophie van Waardenberg, Rebecca Hawkes
Lunchtime Event | Celebrate Children’s Books in Wellington
Unity Books and Gecko Press welcome you to a New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults event.
Wild Honey launch - Auckland
An event to celebrate the launch of Paula Green's Wild Honey: Reading NZ Women's Poetry, written by author Paula Green.
30th Birthday Literary Concert
The Women's Bookshop 30th Birthday Literary Concert
BWB Talk: Wealth, Wellbeing and Capital Gains Tax: What Next? - Otago
Despite significant levels of inequality, the prospects of a capital gains tax in New Zealand now appear remote.
Please join author Max Rashbrooke and tax expert Lisa Marriott as they discuss options for tackling wealth inequality in their talk: Wealth, Wellbeing and Capital Gains Tax: What Next?
This event will be chaired by Janine Hayward, University of Otago.
BWB Talk: Wealth, Wellbeing and Capital Gains Tax: What Next? - Auckland
Despite significant levels of inequality, the prospects of a capital gains tax in New Zealand now appear remote.
Please join author Max Rashbrooke and tax expert Lisa Marriott as they discuss options for tackling wealth inequality in their talk: Wealth, Wellbeing and Capital Gains Tax: What Next?
This event will be chaired by Anna Hood, University of Auckland.
Writers on Mondays: Dinah Hawken and Lynn Jenner
DIG DEEPER: Dinah Hawken and Lynn Jenner in conversation with Bill Manhire
Lunchtime Author Talk | Toby Faber
Join Unity Books Wellington, Faber & Faber and Allen & Unwin NZ for an in-store author talk with Toby Faber, author of ‘Faber & Faber: The Untold Story’ and a new crime thriller, ‘Close to the Edge’.
Paint n' Pen: Free Creative Writing Workshop - 4 August
Write a short story, a poem, or some lyrics inspired by Christchurch's rich street art and get published! We are offering a series of workshops plus guided tours to work on your ideas. Open to writers, budding and established, of all ages.
Call for submissions: Ko Aotearoa Tātou | We Are New Zealand
Immediate call for submissions.
This anthology of fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry and visual art celebrates the voices, experiences and ethnicities that form contemporary New Zealand. Its editors are Michelle Elvy, Paula Morris, and James Norcliffe.
Hamilton Book Month
Hamilton Book Month is on every August with almost all events free of charge and open to all.
July
NZSA Napier/Ahuriri Roadshow
JOIN US for an invigorating day of professional development offering keynote sessions, workshops, masterclasses, and discussions, with a catered morning tea/coffee and lunch.
The Mirror Book: In conversation with Charlotte Grimshaw
The Dunedin Writers & Readers Festival is very pleased to be bringing Charlotte to Dunedin next month to talk about her memoir, The Mirror Book (RHNZ Vintage, 2021). Charlotte will be in conversation with Phillippa Duffy, General Manager of the University Book Shop, and one of the recent festival’s popular session hosts.
Book launch // Parenting in the Anthropocene
Join Unity Books, Freerange Press and contributors Emily Writes, Brannavan Gnanalingam, Jess Berentson-Shaw and more to celebrate the launch of Parenting in the Anthropocene, the third volume in the Radical Futures series.
Love & Loss. Letters from Auckland War Memorial Museum's collection
Be the first to see this emotive new exhibition, where words written in many hands across many centuries declare strikingly similar messages: "I love you. I miss you." Hear Auckland Museum’s Curator of Manuscripts Nina Finigan and Interpretive Planner Kavi Chetty share their journey in creating "Love & Loss".
Tickets available at https://www.aucklandmuseum.com/visit/whats-on/members/love-and-loss-members-preview-talk-and-tour
Memories, Reliable and Otherwise An Online Writers Practice Workshop
Explore how our memories are triggered, how we mould and manipulate them, and how this impacts on our writing.
Words Will Work - South Auckland Writers Festival 2021
Develop your writing skills and meet other writers
Hannah Parry (in conversation with Casey Lucas-Quaid) to celebrate the launch of her latest novel A Radical Act of Free Magic.
We are absolutely thrilled to announce that we will be hosting an event with Hannah Parry ( in conversation with Casey Lucas-Quaid ) to celebrate the launch of her latest novel A Radical Act of Free Magic.
WHERE: -Te Awe branch
WHEN: -Thursday 22nd July at 6pm
Book Launch: The Only Living Lady Parachutist
We are pleased to host the launch of Catherine Clarke’s debut novel The Only Living Lady Parachutist based on a woman who jumped from hot air balloons in 1890s Australia and New Zealand.
Book Launch | The Commercial Hotel by John Summers
Unity Books and Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'The Commercial Hotel' by John Summers. All welcome.
Author talk | Grief on the Run by Julie Zarifeh
Join us to hear clinical psychologist and author Julie Zarifeh in conversation with Dr. Shaystah Dean, discussing Julie's new book Grief on the Run and the five strategies she used to help her cope with devastating loss. All welcome.
Author talk | Anne Kayes on 'In Our Own Backyard'
Join author Anne Kayes, as she discusses and reads from her new YA novel, 'In Our Own Back Yard'. All welcome.
Pop-up Guerrilla Publishing with 5ever x NAG at Te Ramaroa
5ever x NAG is in Nelson for Te Ramaroa Light Festival - and we need your help! Please join us for some creative chaos and pedal-powered publishing!
Marlborough Book Festival
The Marlborough Book Festival is run by the Marlborough Readers & Writers Charitable Trust.
https://www.marlboroughbookfest.co.nz/
Book Launch | Harry Ricketts: Selected Poems
Unity Books and Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Selected Poems' by Harry Ricketts. All welcome.
All Unity Books events pending alert level 1.
Book Launch | Mental Fitness by Paul Wood
Join Unity Books and Paul Wood, author of How to Escape from Prison, to celebrate the launch of Paul’s latest book Mental Fitness (Harper Collins).
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Ruth Paul
Wellington based author/illustrator Ruth Paul is visiting schools in Christchurch this week.
Book Launch: The Only Living Lady Parachutist
Please join us at the launch of Catherine Clarke’s debut novel The Only Living Lady Parachutist, based on a woman who jumped from hot air balloons in 1890s Australia and New Zealand.
New Zealand Mountain, Film and Book Festival - Queenstown
The 19th NZ Mountain Film and Book Festival presents a wide range of films, guest speakers, workshops and presentations from inspirational adventurers. Our films and books tell stories of adventure sports, foreign cultures, remote travel and environmental issues.
Solid Air
Experience a literary launch of some of Aotearoa’s most vibrant performance poets, who are all featured in the ground-breaking new spoken word anthology, ‘Solid Air - Australia & New Zealand Spoken Word’.
Solid Air Launch Aotearoa
Celebrate the premiere NZ launch of the ground breaking ‘Solid Air: Australia & New Zealand Spoken Word’ anthology.
Book Launch | Body Politic by Mary Cresswell
Celebrate the launch of Body Politic, Mary Cresswell's new poetry collection published by The Cuba Press. Mary will read from her work and be in conversation with Rachel McAlpine, who will launch the book.
Word of Mouth Open Mic for spoken word, poetry slam, literary recital
This inaugural monthly event is an opportunity for fledgling and seasoned poets and writers to air their work to a live and supportive audience, surrounded by the 'Old English Pub' ambience of Kerikeri's Plough & Feather Taproom. Everyone is welcome, students/adults alike.
Book Celebration: Walking Home by Michele Amas
All welcome to a poetry reading to celebrate the publication of Walking Home by Michele Amas (Victoria University Press).
Storylines Nationals Story Tour - Manawatu Region
Applications for Story Tour visits in 2020 are OPEN!
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Jennifer Somervell
Canterbury based author of "Tales from the Farm" books is visiting schools in Taranaki this week.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Juliette MacIver in Christchurch
Yes! it's happening! Wellington based author Juliette MacIver is visiting schools in Christchurch this week.
Windswept Slam @ BATS Theatre
Nau mai, haere mai. Welcome to the coolest little poetry slam in the capital.
27 August 18:45
23 September 18:45
12 October 18:45
Motif Poetry is proud to present a friendly, inclusive space for poets to come together and share their work. The winners of each slam will go through to the Wellington Regional Final at the National Library of New Zealand in November.
Double Book Launch: Brannavan Gnanalingam & Murdoch Stephens
Join us to release two new books into the world! Brannavan Gnanalingam's 'Sprigs' and Murdoch Stephens' 'Rat King Landlord'.
Between the Lines
Central Hawke's Bay's inaugural festival, Between the Lines.
Writing a Short Play
Writing for the stage is more than just telling a story. Playwright Dave Armstrong will help you develop the skills to create compelling, well-paced scenes and snappy dialogue that will work well on stage. By the end of the course, you will have written a short play.
You will be expected to work on your play in between each class, with the final class including a reading of each completed short play.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Jennifer Somervell
Canterbury based author of "Tales from the Farm" books is visiting schools in Marlborough this week.
Poetry Book Launch | How To Be Old by Rachel McAlpine
Unity Books Wellington and The Cuba Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'How To Be Old', poems by Rachel McAlpine
Book Launch | Stop Worrying About Money by Baubre Murray
Join us to celebrate the launch of 'Stop Worrying About Money' by Baubre Murray. All welcome.
Suzy Cato and The Kauri Family
An event with Suzy Cato at Dorothy Butler Children's Bookshop
Featherston Booktown 'Words in Winter' - Peta Mathias Fundraiser Gala Afternoon Tea
Join the ever-popular Peta Mathias – cook, raconteur, traveller, writer, singer, and TV star at a Gala Afternoon Tea on Saturday 11 July from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm in the Supper Room in the Anzac Hall.
Featherston Booktown 'Words in Winter' - Elizabeth Knox in coversation with Noelle McCarthy
Elizabeth Knox, who was appointed a CNZM in the recent Queen's Birthday honours list, will be in conversation with Featherston-based broadcaster, writer, and chicken fancier, Noelle McCarthy, on her internationally bestselling book: The Absolute Book.
Katherine Mansfield Year 12 and 13 Short Story Competition
Are you a Year 12 or 13 student in the Wellington region? Enter the annual Katherine Mansfield Short Story Competition and be in to win a $500 cash prize.
July School Holidays Creative Writing Workshop
Learn new ways to make your writing spectacular at our school holiday creative writing workshop. For young people aged 10-14.
Book Launch: Blaze - Guardian of the Monarchs
Free event to start the school holidays. Decorate your own mask, dress up and come celebrate the launch of "Blaze - Guardian of the Monarchs" by local author Adele Gaddes.
For more information, pre-sales of the book, and to download mask template visit www.adelegaddes.com
CANCELLED The Marlborough Book Festival
The Marlborough Book Festival is an annual weekend of wonderful writers, curious audiences and beautiful Marlborough locations.
Book Launch | The Occasional Demon by Primo Levi translated by Marco Sonzogni & Harry Thomas
Unity Books Wellington, Ambasciata d’Italia, Marco Sonzogni & The Cuba Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'The Occasional Demon' by Primo Levi, a limited edition of Primo Levi’s poetry in both Italian and English to mark the centenary of his birth, translated by Marco Sonzogni & Harry Thomas.
Book Launch | Brain Connections: How To Sleep Better, Worry Less and Feel Happier by Dr Giresh Kanji
Unity Books Wellington & Pain Publications warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'BRAIN CONNECTIONS: How To Sleep Better, Worry Less and Feel Happier' by Dr Giresh Kanji. All welcome.
Writers on Mondays: Poetry Quintet
Five poets in dicussion with Chris Price.
Wordswillwork South Auckland Writers Festival
A writers festival that has broad appeal but cosy enough that you can get soup and scones while listening to readings on a winters afternoon.
Workshops, panel discussions and readings from new and established authors, as well as the announcement of the winner of the Franklin Writers Group National Flash Fiction Competition.
Venue - Nathan Homestead Date - 27th of July 2019
Book Launch | A Communist In The Family: Searching For Rewi Alley by Elspeth Sandys
Unity Books Wellington & Otago University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'A Communist In The Family: Searching For Rewi Alley' by Elspeth Sandys
Writers on Mondays: Lynda Chanwai-Earle
HOT AND COLD: Lynda Chanwai-Earle in conversation with Miria George
BWB Talks: Climate Crisis and Revolution
Join authors of the latest addition to the BWB Texts series, A Careful Revolution, to explore the politics and practicalities of the low-emissions transition. Can this revolution be careful?
Monday 22 July, 6.00–7.00 pm
City Gallery Wellington
There’s Something Dark in the Water!
As part of KidsFest, come along to an interactive book launch for Ringlet and the Day the Oceans Stopped presented by author Felicity Williams and her shoal of merkid helpers. Step into a sparkling interactive underwater world created by set designer Julian Southgate and Canvas Bag Drama School.
KidsFest Workshop: Writing the Past with Joanna Grochowicz
Do you love history, horrible or nice? How do you write a story based on real life events? In this KidsFest workshop with author Joanna Grochowicz, you’ll come to grips with the elements necessary to create stories based on your favourite well-known moments in history.
Amundsen’s Way (KidsFest)
Roald Amundsen – hero or villain? Amundsen’s South Polar conquest is an extraordinary tale that combines risk, intrigue and adventure. In this free event for KidsFest, come and meet author Joanna Grochowicz as she recounts the gripping tale of the great Norwegian explorer’s courage, determination and ruthlessness in the race to the South Pole.
KidsFest Workshop: Green Elephants and Purple Oceans with Swapna Haddow
Calling all budding young authors! Have you ever wanted to write a story? Are you interested in starting out as an author? Unleash your inner writer in this interactive workshop with award-winning author, Swapna Haddow, where you will learn about creativity, editing and writing your very own stories.
Swapna Haddow: Telling Tales (Kidsfest)
Free event for KidsFest! Come and meet award-winning UK author Swapna Haddow and hear her talk about her brand new book Dave Pigeon (Royal Coo!). Come along and ask questions and find out what it takes to be an author.
A Careful Revolution – Towards a Low-Emissions Future
Climate change is happening and the potential long-term costs are incalculable. But how do we manage the short-term costs of mitigation?
Join authors David Hall and Maria Bargh as they discuss whether a revolution can be ‘careful’, and how to ensure a tika transition in true partnership with Māori.
Book Launch - Lay Studies by Steven Toussaint
Unity Books and Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Lay Studies' by Steven Toussaint
Paint n' Pen: Free Creative Writing Workshop
Write a short story, a poem or some lyrics inspired by Christchurch's rich street art and get published! We are offering a series of workshops plus guided tour to work on your ideas. Open to writers, budding and established, of all ages.
Beyond the Page
Welcome to Beyond the Page, New Zealand’s largest literary festival for tamariki and their whānau!
Hutt City Libraries, Upper Hutt City Libraries, Wellington City Libraries, Porirua City Libraries and Kāpiti Coast District Libraries are collaborating to run an exciting line-up of events to entertain, excite, and inspire the region’s tamariki and get them exploring the world of story and their cities.
This amazing literary and creative journey takes place in 2019 from 6 - 21 July in the Wellington, Hutt Valley, Porirua and Kāpiti coast regions, for more information, visit our website www.beyondthepage.nz
June
Writers in Schools visits by Sharon Holt for Matariki
Hamilton-based author Sharon Holt is visiting schools in the Nelson & Tasman areas this week.
New Zealand Mountain, Film and Book Festival - Wanaka
The 19th NZ Mountain Film and Book Festival presents a wide range of films, guest speakers, workshops and presentations from inspirational adventurers. Our films and books tell stories of adventure sports, foreign cultures, remote travel and environmental issues.
Book Launch | Harry Ricketts: Selected Poems
Unity Books and Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Selected Poems' by Harry Ricketts. All welcome.
National Flash Fiction Day
The 2021 celebration of flash fiction in Aotearoa New Zealand!
www.nationalflash.org
Closed to Public
#NZreadaloud Writers in Schools visits by James Norcliffe
Christchurch-based author James Norcliffe is visiting schools in Napier/Hastings this week as part of the #NZreadaloud for Yrs 3 & 4.
Poems by cleaners – live at Pātaka!
Come and hear cleaners from Porirua and beyond reading their poems from Landing Press’s latest collection – 'Somewhere a cleaner'. With live music by Don Franks (former cleaner and poet). Coffee and cake – koha (BYO cup). Hosted by the Friends of Pātaka. This event is free,
A morning with Fleur Beale
Award-winning author, Fleur Beale, will speak about her latest novel, The Calling. This will be followed by a Q&A and an opportunity for purchase and book signing by the author. This event is part of this year’s celebrations marking the 186th anniversary of Suzanne Aubert Meri Hōhepa’s birth. Everyone is welcome!
Wellington/Te Whanganui-a-Tara NZSA Roadshow
JOIN US for an invigorating day of professional development offering keynote sessions, workshops, masterclasses, and discussions, with a catered morning tea/coffee and lunch.
Register at: https://nzsa-regional-roadshow-wellington.lilregie.com/booking/attendees/new
Wellington/Te Whanganui-a-Tara NZSA Roadshow
JOIN US for an invigorating day of professional development offering keynote sessions, workshops, masterclasses, and discussions, with a catered morning tea/coffee and lunch.
Author talk | Sharing the mic: Community access radio in Aotearoa NZ
Brian Pauling and Bronwyn Beatty discuss Sharing the mic: Community access radio in Aotearoa New Zealand with publisher Emma Johnson. All welcome.
Author Talk | An Evening with Rosemary Riddell
With humour and humanity, Rosemary Riddell describes life as a New Zealand District Court and Family Court Judge in her book 'To Be Fair'.
Free event. All welcome.
Book Launch: Trixie - Protector of the Bees
Purchase Adele's books at adelegaddes.com and pick up at the launch!
Verb Wellington Writer’s Residency
Verb Wellington and Katherine Mansfield House & Garden have come together to offer an opportunity to spend time in one of the world’s most vibrant literary cities to focus on your writing. Applications close Friday 9 July.
Book Launch | Loop Tracks by Sue Orr
Please join us for the launch of Loop Tracks by Sue Orr (VUP). All welcome.
Einstein, Jesus and Us – Ian Harris and Richard Randerson
Come and hear Ian Harris discuss with Bishop Richard Randerson some of the themes covered in Ian’s new book Hand in Hand: Blending secular and sacred to enlarge the human spirit, which continues his exploration of religion in the modern secular world.
RANGIKURA by Tayi Tibble | Wellington Book Launch
Please join us for the launch of RANGIKURA by Tayi Tibble (VUP).
Author Talk | Alison Jones on 'This Pākehā Life'
A timely and perceptive memoir, Alison Jones' book was shortlisted for the General Non-fiction Award at the 2021 Ockham NZ Book Awards. Join us for a lunchtime session to hear Alison speak with Amanda Thomas.
All welcome, no RSVP required.
Book Launch | Helen Kelly: Her Life by Rebecca Macfie
Awa Press and Unity Books warmly invite you to the Wellington launch of 'Helen Kelly: Her Life' by Rebecca Macfie. All welcome.
Author talk | Pic Picot on Pic: Adventures in Life, Love and Business
Join us to hear Pic Picot of Pic’s Peanut Butter discuss his new memoir, Pic: Adventures in Life, Love and Business. All welcome.
Not in Narrow Seas: a dialogue between Alan Bollard and Brian Easton
Join us at Unity for this lunchtime dialogue between Alan Bollard and Brian Easton regarding Brian's new book, 'Not in Narrow Seas: The Economic History of Aotearoa New Zealand' (Victoria University Press).
Becky Manawatu book signing at Unity Books
Meet Becky Manawatu, the author of the award-winning Auē, and get your book signed. Copies of Auē available to purchase.
Featherston Booktown 'Words in Winter' - Becky Manawatu in Conversation with Mary McCallum
Having been forced to postpone the Featherston Booktown Karukatea 2020 Festival in May, Featherston Booktown is returning with a roar, with a series of drawcard literary events dubbed Words in Winter from June through to August in Featherston.
The opening event will be “Aotearoa New Zealand, We Need to Talk” featuring three award-winning and provocative writers held over the weekend of 27- 28 June 2020.
Featherston Booktown 'Words in Winter' - Alan Duff in Conversation with Peter Biggs
Having been forced to postpone the Featherston Booktown Karukatea 2020 Festival in May, Featherston Booktown is returning with a roar, with a series of drawcard literary events dubbed Words in Winter from June through to August in Featherston.
Featherston Booktown 'Words in Winter' - Sarah Gaitanos in Conversation with Linda Clark
Having been forced to postpone the Featherston Booktown Karukatea 2020 Festival in May, Featherston Booktown is returning with a roar, with a series of drawcard literary events dubbed Words in Winter from June through to August in Featherston.
The opening event will be “Aotearoa New Zealand, We Need to Talk” featuring three award-winning and provocative writers held over the weekend of 27- 28 June, 2020.
Book Launch | Observations of a Rural Nurse by Sara McIntyre - Wellington
Unity Books and Massey University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Observations of a Rural Nurse' by Sara McIntyre. All welcome.
Book Launch | Jerningham by Cristina Sanders
Unity Books, The Cuba Press and Wakefield Digitals warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Jerningham', by Cristina Sanders.
Author talk: Grant Sheehan - The Making of ‘Does Ava Dream?'
Join us in-store or on facebook live https://www.facebook.com/unitybooks/posts/3272704246093428 12pm Thurs 11 June to hear Grant Sheehan discuss 'The Making of ‘Does Ava Dream?'. His new book tells the story behind the creation of Sheehan’s single edition metal book 'Does Ava Dream?' which is about how an artificially intelligent species could develop dreaming, with striking visualisations of what those dreams might look like.
Minnie Dean: Villain or Victim?
Resident French writer at Randell Cottage, Amaury da Cunha, and Christchurch author Karen Zelas share a fascination with the story of Minnie Dean, the only woman to be hanged for murder in New Zealand. Hear them discuss their research in conversation with Mary McCallum.
Book Launch | How To Escape From Prison by Dr Paul Wood
Unity Books Wellington & HarperCollins Publishers warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'How To Escape From Prison: The Remarkable Story of How One Man Defied The Odds' by Dr Paul Wood.
All welcome. Please RSVP to: sandra.noakes@harpercollins.co.nz
National Flash Fiction Day 2019
June 22 is our shortest day of the year — and the day we know and love as National Flash Fiction Day.
Flash in the Pan - National Flash Fiction Day Christchurch
This winter celebrate the smallest fictions on National Flash Fiction Day!
Flash in the Pan brings together Canterbury's best established and emerging flash fiction writers for a spirited afternoon with readings, award presentations.
Book Launch | Two or More Islands by Diana Bridge
Unity Books Wellington & Otago University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Two or More Islands' by Diana Bridge. All welcome.
Windswept Slam - June
Nau mai, haere mai.
Welcome to the coolest little slam in the capital 🌬
19 June, 16 July, 27 August, 17 September
Book Launch | Making History: A New Zealand Story by Jock Phillips
Unity Books Wellington & Auckland University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Making History: A New Zealand Story' by Jock Phillips, to be launched by Sir Geoffrey Palmer.
New Zealand Society of Authors AGM weekend workshops
NZSA AGM Dunedin 15 June 2019
Saturday 15 June
The New Zealand Society of Authors holds its national AGM, Saturday morning at the Dunedin City Library. In the afternoon are free workshops for writers. If you are not a member, you are welcome to attend the workshops for koha, and find out what NZSA is all about: workshops, advocacy, professional development, information, support and collegiality. We have 8 regional branches and many local hubs.
Book Launch | Te Tiriti o Waitangi / The Treaty of Waitangi
Unity Books, Lift Education and Creative New Zealand warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Te Tiriti o Waitangi / The Treaty of Waitangi', a reorua (bilingual) graphic-novel-style flip-book that offers an innovative and fascinating new look at our founding treaty. By Toby Morris with Ross Calman, Mark Derby, and Piripi Walker. All welcome.
Inside.Out Open Mic for Writers
BRING YOUR WRITING - poetry, flash fiction, short story, performance poetry, life writing etc - to read at the open mic (up to 6 mins max) , or come as audience to hear what's brand new. Plus, excellent musicians, word challenges, book prizes & more. Everyone welcome. Inside.Out has been providing local writers with a comfortable space to share their prose and poetry since 2012.
Book Launch | The New Photography edited by Athol McCredie
Unity Books and Te Papa Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'The New Photography' edited by Athol McCredie. All welcome.
Book Launch | Shirley Smith: An Examined Life by Sarah Gaitanos
Unity Books and Victoria University Press invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Shirley Smith: An Examined Life' by Sarah Gaitanos. The book will be launched by the Hon. Grant Robertson.
Wild Honey launch - Wellington
An event to celebrate the launch of Paula Green's Wild Honey: Reading NZ Women's Poetry, written by author Paula Green.
Exploring sound features in poetry
Sometimes the quest for meaning can shift the focus away from sound in a poem. In this workshop taught by Whanganui poet and teacher Airini Beautrais, we will go back to words as the building blocks of poems and explore different ways to approach sound. To reserve your space contact Kirsten Le Harivel at kirsten@kahini.org.
Postponed Book Launch | Just Looking by Peter Bland
Curse the flight-cancelling wind! The launch of Peter Bland's poetry has been postponed because Peter is still in Auckland. Now next Thursday 6 May, 6-7:30pm. Sorry for the inconvenience. We look forward to seeing you all then.
May
We Read Auckland - Ka Pānui Tātau i Tāmaki Makaurau
We Read Auckland Ka Pānui Tātau i Tāmaki Makaurau celebrates Auckland’s readers and writers and the stories that bring us together. One place, many stories - He wāhi kotahi, he kōrero rau.
Book Launch with Dahlia Malaeulu
Join us for the launch of seven new stories from local author Dahlia Malaeulu!
Dahlia’s new books aim to engage and develop Samoan cultural knowledge and language.
Blue Dragon Book Fair
Help a great cause and grab a bargain!
Last Friday Poems
Welcome to our new series of poetry readings at Unity Books!
I’m a poet – I’m a cleaner
Poetry readings from Landing Press’s unique new collection Somewhere a cleaner - free.
Event | A Clear Dawn: New Asian Voices from Aotearoa NZ
Unity Books and Auckland University Press invite you to join us in celebrating the first-ever anthology of Asian New Zealand creative writing.
Author talk | Dressed by Claire Regnault
Join us to hear Claire Regnault in conversation with Te Papa Press Publisher Nicola Legat , discussing Claire's ravishing new book Dressed: Fashionable Dress in Aotearoa New Zealand 1840–1910.
All welcome.
Book Launch | Unsheltered by Clare Moleta
You're invited to the launch of Clare Moleta's Unsheltered, an extraordinary debut novel.
Book Launch | From The Centre: A Writer's Life by Patricia Grace
POSTPONED (date TBC) Unfortunately we have had to postpone tonight’s Patricia Grace event for From the Centre: A Writer's Life. Once confirmed, we will post the new date on social media and in our newsletter. Thanks for your support.
Unity Books and Penguin Random House NZ warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of Patricia Grace's memoir, 'From The Centre: A Writer's Life'. All welcome.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Gareth Ward
Napier based author Gareth Ward is visiting schools in Auckland this week.
NZSA Nelson/Whakatū Roadshow
The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ Inc) Regional Roadshow brings professional development to the regions. A day of professional development workshops, masterclasses and panel discussions.
Book Launch | Greta & Valdin by Rebecca K Reilly
Please join us for the launch of 'Greta and Valdin' by Rebecca K Reilly (VUP). All welcome.
Book Launch | Vunimaqo and Me by Daren Kamali
Join us to celebrate the Wellington launch of 'Vunimaqo and Me', a poetry collection by Daren Kamali published by Kava Bowl Media. All welcome.
Book Group Meet Up @ Brew Academy Wed 19 May 6:00PM
If you're in Christchurch and have been looking for a book group to join, or you're struggling to find enough people to form one, you're not alone. Other individuals are looking too — so we thought you might like to meet them!
Read NZ Te Pou Muramura AGM
The 2020 Read NZ Te Pou Muramura Inc Annual General Meeting will be held at Front+Centre, 69 Tory Street, Wellington
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Donovan Bixley
Taupō based author Donovan Bixley is visiting schools in Wellington this week.
Book Launch | Fifty Years a Feminist by Sue Kedgley
Unity Books and Massey University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of Sue Kedgley's autobiography, 'Fifty Years a Feminist'. All welcome.
Storylines National Story Tour Timaru, Mackenzie District & Ashburton
Ned Barraud, Susan Brocker, Giselle Clarkson and David Riley
visit schools, libraries and community groups in Timaru, the Mackenzie District and Ashburton this week.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Michel Mulipola
Auckland based illustrator Michel Mulipola is visiting schools in Wellington this week.
Living with the Climate Crisis - book reading and panel discussion with 4 authors from Aotearoa.
Join Roskill Community Voice at Mt Roskill War Memorial Hall on Saturday the 15th March, 2pm-4pm for an afternoon of readings and panel discussion from four authors writing about the climate crisis and how it affects our daily lives.
Ockham New Zealand Book Awards 2021
Ockham New Zealand Book Awards 2021
Book Group Virtual Meet-Up (Queenstown) Wed 12 May 1:00PM
If you're in Queenstown and have been looking for a book group to join, or you're struggling to find enough people to form one, you're not alone. Other individuals are looking too — so we thought you might like to meet them!
Book Group Virtual Meet-Up (Kapiti) Wed 12 May 11:45AM
If you're in the Kapiti area and have been looking for a book group to join, or you're struggling to find enough people to form one, you're not alone. Other individuals are looking too — so we thought you might like to meet them!
Book Group Virtual Meet-Up (Hamilton) Tue 11 May 1:00PM
If you're in Hamilton and have been looking for a book group to join, or you're struggling to find enough people to form one, you're not alone. Other individuals are looking too — so we thought you might like to meet them!
Book Group Virtual Meet-Up (Hamilton) Tue 11 May 1:00PM
If you're in Hamilton and have been looking for a book group to join, or you're struggling to find enough people to form one, you're not alone. Other individuals are looking too — so we thought you might like to meet them!
Ngā Uruora and Where We Swim: Books in Conversation
Join Ingrid Horrocks, Turi Park, Tim Park and MC Rebecca Priestley as they discuss the ecologies, histories and personal journeys that weave their way through the ground-breaking books Ngā Uruora and Where We Swim.
Book Group Virtual Meet-Up (Dunedin) Tue 11 May 11:45AM
If you're in Dunedin and have been looking for a book group to join, or you're struggling to find enough people to form one, you're not alone. Other individuals are looking too — so we thought you might like to meet them!
Book Group Virtual Meet-Up (Tauranga) Tue 11 May 10:30AM
If you're in Tauranga and have been looking for a book group to join, or you're struggling to find enough people to form one, you're not alone. Other individuals are looking too — so we thought you might like to meet them!
Auckland Writers Festival
2021 Auckland Writers Festival
Guest Poet Michael O'Leary
Poetry Reading
Book Group Virtual Meet-Up (Nelson) Mon 10 May 7:00PM
If you're in Nelson and have been looking for a book group to join, or you're struggling to find enough people to form one, you're not alone. Other individuals are looking too — so we thought you might like to meet them!
Book Group Virtual Meet-Up (Auckland) Mon 10 May 5:45PM
If you're in Auckland and have been looking for a book group to join, or you're struggling to find enough people to form one, you're not alone. Other individuals are looking too — so we thought you might like to meet them!
Book Group Virtual Meet-Up (Auckland) Mon 10 May 10:30AM
If you're in Auckland and have been looking for a book group to join, or you're struggling to find enough people to form one, you're not alone. Other individuals are looking too — so we thought you might like to meet them!
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Gavin Bishop
Christchurch based author & illustrator Gavin Bishop is visiting schools in Hamilton this week.
Takapuna Poetry Tour
The Takapuna Poetry Tour features contemporary poets performing poems in response to Takapuna and its writing history. Join us for spoken word and poetry on the streets. Poets include Jack Ross, Renee Liang, Kiri Piahana Wong, Elizabeth Morten and Ruby Porter
Book Group Meet Up @ Tūranga Thu 6 May 6:00PM
If you're in Christchurch and have been looking for a book group to join, or you're struggling to find enough people to form one, you're not alone. Other individuals are looking too — so we thought you might like to meet them!
Book Launch | The Alarmist: Fifty Years Measuring Climate Change by Dave Lowe
Unity Books, Victoria University Press and NIWA warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'The Alarmist: Fifty Years Measuring Climate Change' by Dave Lowe. All welcome.
Dunedin Writers & Readers Festival 2021
Dunedin Writers & Readers Festival
Featherston Booktown
2021 Featherston Booktown
Somewhere a cleaner - live poetry event - free
Come and hear a diverse range of cleaners reading their poetry from Landing Press’s latest collection – 'Somewhere a cleaner.' With live music by Don Franks (former cleaner and poet). Coffee and cake (bring your own cup) - koha.
An Evening With Liane Moriarty
WORD Christchurch, in association with Auckland Writers Festival, presents a very special evening with Liane Moriarty, author of the smash international hits Big Little Lies, Truly Madly Guilty, The Husband’s Secret and many more.
CANCELLED Auckland Writers Festival Waituhi O Tāmaki 2020
Every year we stage over 200 public events, gathering together 230 of the world’s best writers and thinkers with over 83,000 festival goers, to celebrate the world of books and ideas.
CANCELLED Featherston Booktown 2020 Festival
A community celebrates the artefact of the book with New Zealand writers, poets, workshops and second hand booksellers
Event Invitation: Talk with Anne Ingram at Alliance Francais
Alliance Francais de Wellington is hosting a talk and book signing for Anne Ingram's new children's book: Bonjour Lucy Bee.
May 30, 6.00pm
Book signing and talk
.
Drinks and nibbles will be served
BWB Talks: Kinley Salmon in conversation with Bernard Hickey
Kinley Salmon interrogates common predictions about a jobless future and explores what might happen to workers as automation becomes more widespread. He sketches out two bold alternative futures for New Zealand – and suggests what it might take, and what we might risk, to pursue each of them. This BWB Talk is chaired by Bernard Hickey.
Blue Dragon Book Fair
The annual, popular Blue Dragon Book Fair will be held in the Ngaio Town Hall in Wellington from 9am to 4pm on Saturday 25 May 2019. All of the money raised goes directly to Blue Dragon Children's Education Centre in Vietnam to support its work providing education and training to young disadvantaged people and rescuing those who have been trafficked.
Launch: Bonjour Lucy Bee by Anne Ingram
Friends of Kapiti Library and Kapiti Children's Writers invite you to the launch of Anne Ingram's ninth book for 8-12 year olds: Bonjour Lucy Bee
BWB Talks: Celebrating Marilyn Waring's new book
Marilyn Waring will be in conversation with Dr Jess Berentson-Shaw, co-director of think-and-do tank The Workshop and senior research associate at the Public Policy Institute at the University of Auckland. In 2018, she published BWB Text A Matter of Fact: Talking Truth in a Post-Truth World.
NZ Book Council's Annual General Meeting and True Stories Told Live
NZ Book Council's Annual General Meeting and True Stories Told Live evening at Meow bar.
Featuring an excellent line-up of storytellers! Please join us.
The NZ Book Council’s AGM will be taking place from 6pm. All welcome.
Free entry, with cash bar available.
Dave Pigeon (Royal Coo!) Launch Party
Celebrate the launch of Dave Pigeon (Royal Coo!) with children's author Swapna Haddow.
Launch | The Grief Almanac: A Sequel by Vana Manasiadis
Unity Books and Seraph Press invite you to celebrate the launch of
The Grief Almanac: A Sequel by Vana Manasiadis
Lunchtime Event | The New Zealand Wars / Ngā Pakanga O Aotearoa by Vincent O’Malley
Join Bridget Williams Books and Unity Books to hear Vincent O'Malley talk about his new book, 'The New Zealand Wars | Ngā Pakanga O Aotearoa'.
Event Invitation: Announcement of winner for The Michael Gifkins Prize for an Unpublished Novel 2019 and launch of 2018 winner Ruby Porter's Attraction
Event Invitation:
Announcement of winner for The Michael Gifkins Prize for an Unpublished Novel 2019 and launch of 2018 winner Ruby Porter's Attraction
4pm to 5.30pm, Sat 18 May
Balcony Bar, Level 5, Aotea Centre, Auckland
Part of the Auckland Writers Festival
All are welcome to this free public event.
A GRANNIES + VILLAINS + DELICIOUS + FUN-FILLED GECKO PRESS EXTRAVAGANZA MORNING TEA!
A GRANNIES + VILLAINS + DELICIOUS + FUN-FILLED GECKO PRESS EXTRAVAGANZA MORNING TEA! Bring your Granny and come dressed as your favourite Villain to this special celebration. Eric and Clotilde will be joined by other Gecko Press authors (Giselle Clarkson, Kieran Rynhardt, Jonathan King, Paul Beavis and more!) for their final stop in the tour. Delicious food will be served, prizes for best dressed!
The Children’s Bookshop Kilbirnie (Free)
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA: Wellington
Grannies & Villains Activity hour at Capital E. Bring your little villains to Capital E for storytime and live drawing, followed by a fun activity to take home
Capital E (Free)
Making a Villain: Clotilde Perrin with Sarah Wilkins
Making a Villain: Clotilde Perrin with Sarah Wilkins
Wellington-based illustrator Sarah Wilkins sits down for an in-depth chat with Clotilde Perrin, French author/illustrator of the extraordinary children’s book Inside the Villains. Join these two talented artists for a fascinating insight into the world of a writer and illustrator. Their talk will span the imaginative and the technical—not to be missed for all illustrators, designers and curious adults.
Unity Books, Free
Author talk | Clotilde Perrin with Sarah Wilkins
Unity Books, Gecko Press, Embassy of France, Alliance Francaise and Institut Francais warmly invite you to hear CLOTILDE PERRIN
Award-winning French author/illustrator of Inside The Villains
in conversation with Wellington illustrator Sarah Wilkins.
The Time of Your Life
Tanya Batt, professional storyteller and author will tell stories and launch her new book, The Time of Your Life, illustrated by Bruce Potter.
Featherston Booktown Festival
A weekend long celebration of the artefact of the book, writers, and challenging ideas for all the family, set in Featherston - a picturesque country town 50 minutes from Wellington. We have over 60 presenters and over 70 events throughout the weekend.
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA: Alliance Française Dunedin
Come along to enjoy a French crêpe, have a chat and some fun with our two authors.
Alliance Française Dunedin, ($3 for members/$5 for non-members)
Launch | '100 Natural History Treasures of Te Papa' edited Susan Waugh
Unity Books and Te Papa Press invite you to celebrate the launch of
'100 Natural History Treasures of Te Papa' edited by Susan Waugh.
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA: Dunedin
Villains & Grannies! Eric and Clotilde appear at Dunedin Writers Festival.
Dunedin Writers and Readers Festival
A celebration of books and authors and very importantly, the readers of books. 4 days of events which include workshops, panel discussions, a train trip for the littlies and literary discussion and discourse of all kinds. The premier celebration of all things literary in Dunedin.
Dunedin Writers & Readers Festival
As Aotearoa’s only UNESCO City of Literature, Dunedin has quite the soft spot for the written word and its diverse practitioners. The fourth Dunedin Writers & Readers Festival is fast galloping towards us (9-12 May) and promises four days of terrific talk across 36 events, with a cast of over 60 participants.
Inside.Out Open Mic for Writers
Inside.out is open mic for writers, with great musician guests each time. All writing - poetry, fiction, flash, micro, life writing, performance poetry etc - is welcome. College students and writers new to open mic are warmly welcomed. Inside.Out has been happening since 2012 once a month every month at Cafe One2one, always on the second Wednesday, and it gets busy!
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA: Palmerston North
Clotilde Perrin discusses her life as an award-winning author/illustrator in France. The event is coordinated by the Alliance Française Palmerston North.
Palmerston North Central Library (Free)
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA: Ramp Gallery, Hamilton
Eric Veille discussion his art practice and life as an author
Ramp Gallery (Free)
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA: Hamilton
Eric Veille discussion his art practice and life as an author
Ramp Gallery (Free)
Author talk | Kate Raworth – Doughnut Economics
Unity Books & New Zealand Alternative warmly invite you to hear
KATE RAWORTH author of the bestselling ‘Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist’ in discussion with Chlöe Swarbrick MP and Thomas Nash from Massey University and New Zealand Alternative.
Autobiography in Creative Writing - 8 week course
An 8 week evening course for adults, Tuesdays 5.30-7.30. To book, go to www.cecwellington.ac.nz
Neal Shusterman Book Signing: Wellington
The Children’s Bookshop is hosting Neal Shusterman, a New York Times bestseller many times over.
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA: Hamilton
Join Eric Veille for an investigation in the art of the Granny… he will read his marvellous Encyclopedia of Grannies and will draw live so you can see how he illustrates their mysterious ways….(Free)
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA: Alliance Française Auckland
Come and meet Clotilde Perrin and Eric Veillé at the Alliance Française Auckland, as they will hold a talk and answer all your questions with French author Karin Serres, 2019 Randell Cottage writer in residence.
Alliance Française Auckland, Free
Neal Shusterman Book Signing: Auckland
Auckland's Dorothy Butler Children’s Bookshop is hosting Neal Shusterman, a New York Times bestseller many times over.
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA: Ponsonby
Grannies & Villains! Eric and Clotilde turn pen and paper into fabulous characters before your eyes (Free Event)
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA: Auckland Library
Grannies & Villains: Clotilde Perrin and Eric Veille have fun … one reads while the other draws live! Come along with your questions (Free Event)
Eric Veille and Clotilde Perrin join Gavin Bishop for a conversation about life, writing, art and France (Free)
Eric and Clotilde join Gavin Bishop for a conversation about life, writing, art and France.
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA
Workshops! Join Eric or Clotilde and learn how to make your own storybook character. (Free but registration required)
Launch | The Braided River: Migration and the Personal Essay by Diane Comer
Join Unity Books and Otago University Press for the launch of
THE BRAIDED RIVER: MIGRATION AND THE PERSONAL ESSAY
by Diane Comer launched by Golriz Ghahraman MP
LES PETITS KIWIS: ACCLAIMED FRENCH AUTHORS TO TOUR AOTEAROA: Christchurch
Grannies & Villains! Eric and Clotilde turn pen and paper into fabulous characters before your eyes.
An Evening with Jennifer Andrewes: Hamilton
Don't miss an engaging evening as author Jennifer Andrewes chats about the experience of trading her family's comfortable Wellington existence for life in a small French village.
Launch | From Strategy To Action by Alicia McKay
Join Unity Books Wellington to celebrate the launch of
'FROM STRATEGY TO ACTION: A Guide To Getting Shit Done In The Public Sector' by Alicia McKay
April
A Capital Crimespree - Newtown Mystery in the Library ( Free)
Do you enjoy delving into some darkness in your reading?
The Ngaio Marsh Awards, in association with Wellington City Libraries, invites booklovers to a fun evening of criminally good conversation featuring five outstanding local storytellers.
Three-time Ockhams New Zealand Book Awards listee Brannavan Gnanalingam chairs a panel discussion with 2019 Ngaio Marsh Award and Ockhams winner Dame Fiona Kidman, 2021 Ockhams longlistee Sally J Morgan, and New York Times bestselling writing duo Dr Judy Melinek and TJ Michell. From crafting rich characters alongside exciting storylines to addressing real-life issues through their fiction, much will be revealed .
Walking In Lockdown
Five writers, Russell Brown, Nisha Madhan, Karlo Mila, Zech Soakai and Kennedy Warne, tell their stories of walking in a time of COVID-19.
Author talk| The Great Successor by Anna Fifield
Join us to hear Anna Fifield discuss her book, 'The Great Successor: The Secret Rise & Rule of Kim Jong Un' (John Murray) with Kelly Dennett. All welcome.
Talk and draw with Tara Black in discussion with Dylan Horrocks. (Waitohi Library Sat 17th of April at 1pm) Free
Talk and draw with graphic artist Tara Black in discussion with fellow artist Dylan Horrocks.
Same Same But Takatāpui
Same Same But Different and Food Court Books are overjoyed to host a reading from four of the most exciting takatāpui wahine writing today.
Book Launch | How To Live With Mammals by Ash Davida Jane
All welcome to this celebration of How To Live With Mammals, new poetry by Ash Davida Jane (VUP).
The 2021 Festival of Colour and Aspiring Conversations
A week-long festival of arts and ideas held in Wanaka.
Becky Manawatu in conversation with Kate Camp
This talk has been regretfully cancelled but the workshop and picnic are going ahead: Hear award winning author Becky Manawatu in conversation with Kate Camp. This event is free. 1pm at the Business Hive at 26 Ribble Street, Oamaru.
Wild Dogs Under My Skirt
Tusiata Avia's powerful collection of poetry, adapted for the stage is touring to Dunedin, Oamaru, and Invercargill, as part of the Dunedin Arts Festival.
Wild Dogs Under My Skirt
Tusiata Avia's powerful collection of poetry, adapted for the stage is touring to Dunedin, Oamaru, and Invercargill, as part of the Dunedin Arts Festival.
Writers Practice: Pure Psychic Automatism – Writing from Surrealist and Magical Realist Influences with Ruby Solly
The written word is powerful, but it is also a chance to play and create things which we cannot have in our real lives. Join writer, musician and taonga pūoro practitioner Ruby Solly in this two-day workshop to extend your writing, embrace the strange, and work on your potential to describe the indescribable.
On 10.30am - 3.00pm, 10 April and 17 April 2021.
Limited places available.
Register now! https://writerspractice.nz/events/purepsychic/
NZSA Christchurch/Ōtautahi Regional Roadshow
Take part in a day of keynote sessions, workshops, masterclasses and discussions plus a catered morning tea/coffee and lunch.
Wild Dogs Under My Skirt
Tusiata Avia's powerful collection of poetry adapted for the stage is touring to Dunedin, Oamaru, and Invercargill, as part of the Dunedin Arts Festival.
Capital Crimes - Karori Mystery in the Library April 9th - 6pm (Free)
The Ngaio Marsh Awards, in association with Wellington City Libraries, invites booklovers to a fun evening of criminally good conversation featuring four acclaimed local storytellers.
2018 Ngaio Marsh Award winner Jennifer Lane chairs a panel discussion with Rajorshi Chakraborti, Helen Vivienne Fletcher, and Rodney Strong on how they craft memorable characters and page-turning storylines, and infuse their books with real-life issues and insights into people and society.
Wild Dogs Under My Skirt
Tusiata Avia's powerful collection of poetry adapted for the stage is touring to Dunedin, Oamaru and Invercargill as part of the Dunedin Arts Festival.
Celebrating 'Imagining Decolonisation'
‘Imagining Decolonisation’, a short book authored by Bianca Elkington, Rebecca Kiddle, Moana Jackson, Ocean Mercier, Mike Ross, Jennie Smeaton and Amanda Thomas and published by Bridget Williams Books, has held a top ten spot in Unity’s best seller list for much of the last year.
Join us and the book’s authors for an evening of celebration.
The Dark Quest of Countess X - A Call to the World’s Youth by L P Hansen
Meet the author. Hear from Child Alert (ECPAT) NZ, supporters of the book. See www.lphansen.com for further information and for the Launch writing competition with its generous prizes.
Steve Braunias at Unity Books Wellington
Twelve extraordinary tales of disappearance: a collection of true crime writing by New Zealand’s award-winning master of non-fiction, Steve Braunias.
Join Steve for a talk about his new book MISSING PERSONS at Unity Books Wellington.
Closed to Public
Taranaki school visits for Tales from the Farm
Author Jennifer Somervell is visiting Taranaki schools.
Cancelled: A writer's journey
Graeme Woodfield is Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Auckland Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. He is a transfusion medicine specialist and author.
A writer's journey will cover Graeme's three books Jack Lovelock (Athlete and Doctor), No Ordinary Man (Sir Arthur Porritt) and his latest book Alcohol, A dangerous love affair.
The New Zealand Poetry Society Poetry Competition
The New Zealand Poetry Society invites entries in its annual international poetry competition. Poets can enter in one of four sections: Open, Open Junior, Haiku, and Haiku Junior. There are cash prizes to be won and the chance to be published in our annual anthology.
Cancelled: Blood among the Blooms
Mystery in the Library Series 2020
Join four criminally minded storytellers from the Waikato and Bay of Plenty for an evening of mirth and mystery. 2018 Ngaios finalist Nikki Crutchley will chair a chat with Christina O'Reilly, Zoe Rankin, and #1 bestseller Julie Thomas.
Light refreshments on arrival.
Koha entry.
[Registration not required]
Storylines Margaret Mahy National Awards Day
The winners of all the Storylines Awards will be announced at the annual Storylines Margaret Mahy National Awards Day to be held on Sunday 5 April at the University of Auckland Epsom Campus, and all recipients will receive their certificates and awards.
Cancelled: 'I have a novel in me'
... how to make that a reality, a workshop with Julie Thomas.
Join Cambridge author Julie Thomas who will share practical advice on plotting, pacing, characters and dialogue and how to end!
An Evening with Jennifer Andrewes: Howick
Don't miss an engaging evening as author Jennifer Andrewes chats about the experience of trading her family's comfortable Wellington existence for life in a small French village.
An Evening with Jennifer Andrewes: Ponsonby
Don't miss an engaging evening as author Jennifer Andrewes chats about the experience of trading her family's comfortable Wellington existence for life in a small French village.
Celebrating Sir David Skegg's The Health of the People
Celebrating Sir David Skegg's The Health of the People
6.00–8.00 pm (doors open 5.30pm)
Wednesday 17th April
National Library of New Zealand, Wellington
Speaker: Sir David Skegg,
Chair: Professor Diana Sarfati
All welcome. Refreshments will be served
Launch | Night As Day by Nikki-Lee Birdsey
Join Unity Books Wellington and Victoria University Press for the launch of Nikki-Lee Birdsey’s 'NIGHT AS DAY'.
March
Somewhere a cleaner’ – hear the poets live
Come and hear a diverse range of cleaners reading their poetry from Landing Press’s latest Collection – 'Somewhere a cleaner' – at the Aro Street Community Centre on Sunday, 28 March from 4pm to 5pm. Featuring Aro Valley's own Don Franks. Open mic for poems related to cleaning. Admission is free.
Storylines Margaret Mahy Medal and National Awards Day
Presentation of the Storylines Margaret Mahy Medal and Lecture - Julia Marshall, Publisher Gecko Press
Presentation of the 2021 Storylines National Awards
Ages of Pages
A book event for readers and authors to connect.
NZSA Dunedin/Ōtepoti Regional Roadshow
Take part in a day of keynote sessions, workshops, masterclasses and discussions plus a catered morning tea/coffee and lunch.
Double Book Launch | More Favourable Waters & Quantum of Dante
You are warmly invited to join us to celebrate the launch of 'More Favourable Waters: Aotearoa poets respond to Dante’s Purgatory' edited by Marco Sonzogni & Timothy Smith (The Cuba Press) and 'Quantum of Dante' by Marco Sonzogni (Beatnik Books). All welcome.
Author Talk: Judy Melinek + T.J. Mitchell
Join New York Times bestselling co-authors Judy Melinek, M.D. and T.J. Mitchell for a candid discussion on writing together, the life of a forensic pathologist and their latest book, Aftershock.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Mary-anne Scott
Hawkes Bay-based author Mary-anne Scott is visiting schools around the West Coast this week.
Author Talk: Girol Karacaoglu in conversation with Ramsey Margolis
Unity Books and The Tuwhiri Project warmly invite you to hear Girol Karacaoglu in conversation with Ramsey Margolis on Girol's new book, Love You. All welcome.
Author talk: Graham McTavish - Clanlands
You are warmly invited to hear Outlander star, Graham McTavish discuss 'Clanlands: Whisky, Warfare, and a Scottish Adventure Like No Other' (Hachette), written with co-star, Sam Heughan. All welcome.
How to get your book reviewed
Elizabeth Heritage an experienced book reviewer and publicist in te ao pukapuka (the NZ publishing industry, book trade, literary circles & media). Come and learn how to get your pukapuka (book) reviewed!
Secret Art Powers: Lies and Fluidity, a lecture by Jo Randerson
Pōneke artist and writer Jo Randerson ONZM unveiled her six frameworks, at Verb Wellington last year, for how artists and creative thinkers can re-shape our world at this urgent, uncertain moment in history. Secret Art Powers is an evolving theatrical lecture series that will culminate in a book due for publication in 2022.
Book Launch: Where We Swim by Ingrid Horrocks
Unity Books Wellington and Victoria University Press warmly invite to celebrate the launch of 'Where We Swim' by Ingrid Horrocks, to be launched by Laura Jean McKay, followed by a reading from Ingrid. All Welcome.
Author talk | Andrew Crowe - Pathway of the Birds
Unity Books Wellington and Bateman Books warmly invite you to hear an interview with Andrew Crowe about his award-winning book, Pathway of the Birds: The Voyaging Achievements of Māori and their Polynesian Ancestors. All welcome.
Cancelled: Iconic New Zealand author Renée in conversation with Rachel McAlpine at our Newtown Branch.
We are delighted to announce that on Friday 5th March at our Newtown Branch we will be holding a very special event with New Zealand writing icon and legend Renée in conversation with Rachel McAlpine .
2021 World Book Day Lecture
The Centre for the Book is delighted to offer the annual World Book Day Lecture.
Our speaker this year is Juliet Blyth, the Chief Executive of Read NZ Te Pou Muramura. The title of her talk is “Reading When You Can’t Be Bothered: Who Isn’t Reading and What Can Be Done about It.” Books are wonderful things in themselves, but they only truly come to life in the hands of a reader. We look forward to hearing from an enthusiastic reader and advocate for the importance of reading.
POSTPONED - Author Talk: Girol Karacaoglu in conversation with Ramsey Margolis
Unity Books and The Tuwhiri Project warmly invite you to a hear Girol Karacaoglu in conversation with Ramsey Margolis on Girol's new book, Love You. All welcome.
Closed to Public
Anne Kayes #NZreadaloud School Visits
Years 5 to 8 students are reading Tui Street Heroes this term.
Cancelled: Self-Pub lishing for Beginners
Former Journalist and local Cambridge resident Trudi Caffell is a fantasy fiction writer who writes under the pseudonym Trudi Jaye.
Trudi will share how she got started and her journey into self-publishing.
Closed to Public
Northland Writers in Schools visits by Gareth Ward
Hawke's Bay based author & bookseller Gareth Ward is visiting schools in Northland this week.
POSTPONED The More of Us Quiz for Race Relations Day 2020
Celebrate Race Relations Day 2020 with a quiz night based loosely on the very successful More of Us (poems by migrants and ex-refugees in NZ.) But you don't need to know the book - or anything!
Launch | Aspiring by Damien Wilkins
Unity Books Wellington, Annual Ink and Massey University Press
warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of
ASPIRING BY DAMIEN WILKINS
to be launched by Carl Shuker. All welcome.
Closed to Public
Southland school visits for Tales from the Farm
Author Jennifer Somervell is visiting Southland schools.
Lindy West: The Witches are Coming
Join firebrand New York Times columnist and bestselling feminist author Lindy West (Shrill) with her new book The Witches are Coming, a brilliant and incisive look at how patriarchy, intolerance, and misogyny have conquered not just politics but American culture itself.
Get Published! 07/03/2020
Award-winning publishing consultant, Ocean Reeve presents Get Published - a 2-hour free seminar on the publishing industry, how to publish in this new era, audiobooks, book distribution and marketing along with a step-by-step process in how to realise that vision of becoming a published author.
Get Published! 06/03/20
Award-winning publishing consultant, Ocean Reeve visits ‘Name of Library’ on ‘Date’ to present Get Published - a 2-hour free seminar on the publishing industry, how to publish in this new era, audiobooks, book distribution and marketing along with a step-by-step process in how to realise that vision of becoming a published author.
Launch: If Only by Adele Broadbent
Local author and Book Nut Adele Broadbent has written a YA novel about first love, choices and the shared love of whales. Launching in Seaweek and supporting the work of Project Jonah.
Reimagining Classics
Join illustrators Giselle Clarkson, Kieran Rynhart and Kimberly Andrews as they discuss how they approached reillustrating the work and characters of iconic New Zealand writers.
Reimagining Classics - Illustration Talk
Gecko Press Illustrators Talk
Double Book Launch | Madison Hamill & Oscar Upperton
Unity Books Wellington & Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of
SPECIMEN BY MADISON HAMILL
&
NEW TRANSGENDER BLOCKBUSTERS BY OSCAR UPPERTON
All welcome.
Closed to Public
Coromandel school visits for Tales from the Farm
Author Jennifer Somervell is visiting Coromandel schools.
Storylines Margaret Mahy National Awards Day 2019
The Storylines Margaret Mahy National Awards Day is Storylines’ annual celebration of New Zealand’s authors, their books and achievements. It is held in Auckland each year on the weekend closest to International Children’s Book Day, 2 April - Hans Christian Andersen's birthday.
Editing your Creative Writing - one day workshop
A one day editing workshop for adults. Bring a piece of your writing to work on.
Lunchtime Event | Truthteller by Stephen Davis
Unity Books & Exisle Publishing warmly invite you to hear Stephen Davis discuss his new book, ‘Truthteller: An Investigative Reporter’s Journey Through the World of Truth Prevention, Fake News & Conspiracy Theories’
Qubyte book launch
Upper Hutt Library, Writers Plot bookshop and Cat Connor invite you to celebrate the launch of Cat Connor's 10th byte novel, Qubyte.
Not only is it the 10th book but it's also Cat's tenth year as a published crime novelist (which means Killerbyte is ten!!).
Anne of Green Gables – A literal and literary pilgrimage
Join literary historian Cheryl Paget on a pilgrimage to Prince Edward Island, Canada, and sites connected with L M Montgomery’s and her famous character, Anne of Green Gables.
Launch | Samoan Queer Lives
Join Unity Books & Little Island Press for the launch of 'Samoan Queer Lives'. All welcome!
Lunchtime Event | Geoff Cochrane 'The Black and the White'
Join Unity Books & Victoria University Press as Geoff Cochrane discusses his latest poetry collection 'The Black and the White' with fellow author Carl Shuker.
Gregory Kan & Sugar Magnolia Wilson | Double Poetry Launch
Join Unity Books and Auckland University Press for the double launch of
'Because a Woman’s Heart is Like a Needle at the Bottom of the Ocean' by Sugar Magnolia Wilson AND 'Under Glass' by Gregory Kan. All welcome!
Talking books with Jacinda Ardern
Join us to hear Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern talk about her love of books and the importance of reading and literature at a unique fundraising event for Katherine Mansfield House & Garden.
Launch | Jared Davidson 'Dead Letters: Censorship and Subversion in New Zealand 1914-1920'
Unity Books & Otago University Press warmly invite you to the launch of 'Dead Letters: Censorship and Subversion in New Zealand 1914-1920' by Jared Davidson. All welcome!
Author discussion with Kathryn Mannix
Unity Books will be joining HarperCollins NZ and Mary Potter hospice as Dr Kathryn Mannix speaks about her book With The End In Mind and her work as a leading palliative care doctor.
Launch | Carl Shuker 'A Mistake'
Join Unity Books and Victoria University Press for the launch of 'A Mistake' by Carl Shuker.
February
When The Machine Arrived - Open-form writing competition
When The Machine Arrived explores the impact that technology has on our lives. This is an open-form writing competition with a limit of 1,500 words per entry. Standard entry is free, and the winning story will receive a US $1000 monetary prize.
Entries close on March 30, 2021. The winner and finalists will be announced late April.
https://exisleacademy.com/when-the-machine-arrived/
2021 Kāpiti Writers Retreat
Immerse yourself in writing and conversation this summer. There’s something for everyone–whether you’re new to writing, an established writer, or somewhere in-between. The Kāpiti Writers’ Retreat is a three-day gathering for writers that encompasses intensive morning workshops and lively afternoon discussions led by established and award winning writers – Brannavan Gnanalingam, Cassie Hart, Helen Lehndorf, M. Darusha Wehm, Pip Adam, Rob Hack and Rose Lu. You'll find space to write, relax and engage with topics critical to your work. Find out more here: http://www.writerspractice.nz/the-kapiti-writers-retreat/
Book Launch: Aftershock by Judy Melinek & T.J. Mitchell
Unity Books and HarperCollins Publishers warmly invite you to the launch of Aftershock by Judy Melinek & T.J. Mitchell. All welcome.
Authors Mia Farlane and Anne Goodwin and in Conversation ONLINE (free event)
Anne Goodwin & Mia Farlane will be reading from and discussing their debut novels at an ONLINE event
Thursday 25 Feb 8am, in Aotearoa / NZ
(Wednesday 24 February, 7pm GMT)
Book Launch: Tranquillity and Ruin by Danyl McLauchlan
Unity Books and VUP warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of Tranquillity and Ruin by Danyl McLauchlan. All welcome.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by James Russell
Auckland based author James Russell, of The Dragon Defenders series, is visiting schools in Dunedin this week.
Common Ground: Garden Histories of Aotearoa
Join us at this free outdoor event to hear gardener and author Matt Morris speak about his 2020 book 'Common Ground: Garden histories of Aotearoa' in the garden at Katherine Mansfield House & Garden.
The Garden Party
Celebrate Aotearoa talks, music and food with us on 20 & 21 Feb at the Wellington Botanic Garden's Soundshell. We look forward to sharing the magic of live gatherings with you as we come together for interesting ideas, fascinating lives, fresh conversation and a party or two
Criminal Minds
Criminal Minds - 10 crime writers in 100 thrilling minutes. Covering a criminally large range of small town crime to international espionage and finishing with a sliver of paranormal tension, these ten authors represent some of New Zealand’s best crime writers, together under one roof. Join them as they stalk serial killers through the Coromandel bush, follow undercover cops on their fictional beats. Walk alongside them as they track international terrorists through Malaysia and investigate deadly financiers and dark family secrets. Listen to ten exceptional Kiwi authors at this one off event halfway down Auckland’s iconic Dominion Road.
Author Talk: Witi Ihimaera on Navigating the Stars
Pending a move to Alert Level 1. Unity Books and Random House NZ/Vintage warmly invite you to a talk from the much-loved Witi Ihimeara on his latest book, Navigating the Stars. All welcome.
How to get published: samesame but different festival
Are you writing a pukapuka (book)? Want to get it out there but not sure where to start?
Experienced publishing professional Elizabeth Heritage will use her insider knowledge to guide you through the different avenues to publication.
In this practical workshop we will:
demystify the jargon
help you figure out the commercial strengths of your work
go through the process of pitching to agents and publishers in detail
do practical exercises to enable you to apply these principles to your specific situation
Handouts will be provided. Please bring something to take your own notes on as well.
Online event - Gary Lonesborough: samesame but Different festival
Join Gary Lonesborough, author of The Boy from the Mish, talking about his debut novel, a funny and heart warming story set in a rural Australian community, about seventeen-year-old Jackson finding the courage to explore who he is. Published in February 2021, this book is already receiving critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and unflinching look at the experience of growing up gay and Aboriginal.
Saturday Night Special Object from Home: Samesame but Different festival
LGBTQI stories often come wrapped up in objects that conceal or reveal. In this stimulating session, five fantastic writers and creatives bring their precious queer objects and share the stories they hold. Community icon Carole Beu hosts these amazing writers and performers as they share stories about their most treasured objects. Join gay historian Chris Brickell, ground-breaking publisher Ian Watt, performer and musician Ramon Te Wake, and award-winning poet Courtney Sina Meredith for this thoroughly entertaining Saturday evening.
At the conclusion of this event, the winners of the Peter Wells Short Fiction Contest will be announced. Special thanks to Foundation North for their sponsorship of the contest. Refreshments available from 6.30pm.
Peter Wells Lecture - Kassie Hartendorp: samesame but Different festival
The Peter Wells Lecture is named in memory of Samesame but different’s late founder, the great writer and activist Peter Wells. Each year we invite a writer to discuss issues close to their heart that directly affect the LGBTQI+ community. This year we invited Kassie Hartendorp to deliver the lecture.
Kassie Hartendorp (Ngāti Raukawa) grew up in Whanganui and is based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara. She is a renowned community activist and organiser working in the areas of youth, takatāpui, anti-racism, workers rights and housing. She is a former youth worker who supported LGBTIQ+ young people and serves on the Tīwhanawhana Trust, a takatāpui community group. Kassie has written essays for The Spinoff, Pantograph Punch and Vice on gender diversity, whakamā, and being queer and Māori. This year she edited/organised The Aunties Magazine, a one-off magazine about political organising in Aotearoa. She’ll talk about how we as LGBTIQ people have a crucial role to play in the broader movement for change. How we bring our whakapapa, our strengths, our pain, our joy and our lessons to help create a better world, how that will allow us to find home in the new world that we will birth together.
Honoured Writer - Ngaio Marsh: samesame but Different festival
Ngaio Marsh was a global ‘Crime Queen’ in those harrowing decades of doubt haunted by two World Wars and the Great Depression. The detective novel was a parable of redemption that gripped the popular imagination and offered comforting tales of good conquering evil. One of the many fascinating things about Ngaio Marsh is how the queen of the crime novel managed to conceal herself in so many layers of mystery, red herrings and intrigue. Her sexuality was debated during her life and after her death, and she remains an enigma. Join award-winning author Joanne Drayton on a journey into the mind and mystery of Ngaio Marsh. Why did she write her stories? How did she edit her life? And what career-ending dangers did she have in store for her biographer?
Far from home: samesame but different festival
What happens when storytellers or subjects are far from home? This panel explores the pain, perspectives and sometimes strange clarity of writers who have written about subjects while disconnected from their homelands and communities. Historian Chris Brickell delves into the perks and perils of the tyranny of distance with a panel including Brent Coutts, author of Crossing the Lines about gay soldiers in World War II; Marolyn Krasner, American-born writer and New Zealand-based author of The Radicals; and esteemed playwright Ahi Karunaharan.
Queer Bodies: samesame but different festival
Continuing our theme of ‘Home’, we turn inward to our own bodies, to the very skin we inhabit. Experiences of queerness often reside in our very own bodies; whether it be the joy we share, the pain we carry or our experiences of our own identity and sexuality. These writers discuss how queer bodies influence their writing. This panel features the creators of the joyously subversive show Reclamation Ria Hiroki and Elyssia R’anee Wilson-Heti, Dunedin-based psychologist and author of Perv Jesse Bering, writer and disability activist Henrietta (Etta) Bollinger, and poet and publisher Jackson Nieuwland.
Chaired by Queer academic and fat studies scholar George Parker.
Crime and Punishment: samesame but different festival
Crime and punishment are loaded terms for LGBTQI+ writers. Who gets to decide what constitutes a crime, and who dishes out the retribution that follows? Join three whipsmart writers who have waded into this contested area in a panel hosted by a two-time finalist for the Ngaio Marsh awards, Jen Shieff.
Featuring Aroha Awarau, author of the 2020 play Provocation exploring the unjust gay-panic defence; -the crime-writing duo behind Jennifer Palgrave, the person who wrote the lesbian mystery novel The One That Got Away; and Vogel award winner M. Darusha Wehm, author of the sensational cyberpunk detective series Andersson Dexter.
Samesame but different Gala: Home
Home can mean many things to our LGBTQIA+ communities, meanings that gathered new layers in the strange year we’ve all just experienced. Whether it is a place of comfort and belonging, a place to escape from, a real location or a state of mind, home is a concept at once alluring and elusive.
Rhion Munro hosts some of Aotearoa’s most exciting writers as they tell intimate stories of home and explore its many meanings for them. Join us for an evening where poignant observations mingle with laugh-out-loud anecdotes as the sun sets across Freyberg Square. Featuring award-winning playwright Ahi Karunaharan, acclaimed story-teller and journalist Aroha Awarau, lesbian crime-writer extraordinaire Jen Shieff, Lil O’Brien, recently published writer of wildly successful Not That I’d Kiss a Girl,, and writer of the internationally acclaimed homecoming series, Rūrangi, Cole Meyers.
Josie Laird at Waiuku Library
Come and meet local author Josie Laird at Waiuku Library and hear about her new book "The Gift of Words".
Hello Darkness: samesame but different festival
Victor Rodger, the award winning author of Black Faggot , presents a one-man adaptation of Hello Darkness, the critically acclaimed book by samesame but different's late founder, Peter Wells which was Inspired by a series of Facebook posts that Peter wrote as he battled cancer. Hello Darkness is a moving, sometimes funny but always honest examination of one man's life as he contemplates the end.
Book Launch: Tōku Pāpā by Ruby Solly
Unity Books and VUP warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of Tōku Pāpā by Ruby Solly. All welcome.
Poetry Speakasy samesame but different festival
speak it slam it recite it read it perform it sing it !
Samesame but different and Auckland Libraries present the sixth PRIDE Poetry Speakeasy open mic, with guest poet Courtney Sina Meredith.
Share your rainbow poetry, come and listen in a welcoming word nest at the Grey Lynn Library, 474 Great North Road, Grey Lynn, next to St Joseph’s Church. (Ramped entrance, mobility parking available).
samesame but different LGBTQI+ writers and readers festival
Every year during Auckland Pride, samesame but different LGBTQI+ writers and readers festival celebrates some of the best LGBTQI+ writing talent from Aotearoa and around the world, with a range of stimulating talks, panels and poetry readings, which are free to attend in person or online.
samesame but different
The 2021 samesame but different festival is a time for us to shake off the upheaval of 2020. We invite you to our queer literary home, to sit back and be entertained by some of the best LGBTQI voices today and to celebrate our community’s literary achievements.
Victoria University/Creative New Zealand Writer in Residence
We invite applications for the Victoria University of Wellington / Creative New Zealand Writer in Residence 2021. Writers in all areas of literary activity, including drama, fiction and poetry, New Zealand art, biography, history, music, society and culture, are eligible to apply.
An evening with Jung Chang
WORD Christchurch welcomes back Jung Chang, best selling author of Wild Swans, to present her new book Big Sister, Little Sister, Red Sister: Three Women at the heart of 20th Century China.
Marketing for authors - even authors who hate marketing
This workshop is aimed at unpublished and early-career authors, although anyone who would like a refresher is also welcome to join.
Crimechurch book launch
Award-winning Northland short story author Michael Botur has published his first literary fiction novel which launches in his hometown of Christchurch on February 28.
The 2020 Kāpiti Writers' Retreat
Immerse yourself in writing and conversation this summer. There’s something for everyone–whether you’re new to writing, an established writer, or somewhere in-between. The Kāpiti Writers’ Retreat is a two-day gathering for writers that encompasses intensive morning workshops and lively afternoon discussions led by established and award winning writers – Catherine Chidgey, Chris Tse, Helen Lehndorf, Kerry Lane, Paddy Richardson and Pip Desmond You'll find space to write, relax and engage with topics critical to your work.
Launch: Spearo from Mary-anne Scott - Hawkes Bay
The Havelock North launch for Spearo by local author Mary-anne Scott.
A spearfishing adventure for ages 12+
What copyright is and how to manage yours
This workshop is aimed at unpublished and early-career authors, although anyone who would like a refresher is also welcome to join.
Seeking the Spirit Within
Seeking the Spirit Within is a book published by a publishing company named Blurb in the U.S and is ready for avid readers of all ages.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Rose Lu
Wellington-based author Rose Lu is visiting schools in Hawke's Bay this week.
Ghost Writing (weekdays only 12-4pm)
An installation of a hybrid project that blends conceptual art and fiction writing.
Submissions for Kerikeri: Past Present and Future
Pavlova Press is calling for submissions of poetry and short prose (fiction or non-fiction, historical or contemporary) based on Kerikeri and its inhabitants past, present and future.
How to query literary agents and submit work to publishers
This workshop is aimed at unpublished and early-career authors, although anyone who would like a refresher is also welcome to join. You don't have to have finished writing your book yet!
Double Launch | Head Girl by Freya Daly Sadgrove & 2000ft Above Worry Level by Eamonn Marra
Unity Books Wellington & Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of HEAD GIRL BY FREYA DALY SADGROVE
to be launched by Hera Lindsay Bird & 2000ft ABOVE WORRY LEVEL BY EAMONN MARRA to be launched by Annaleese Jochems.
Same Same But Different
A celebration of Aotearoa New Zealand's LGBTQI writing talent.
http://www.samesamebutdifferent.co.nz/
Book Launch: A Kitchen Well-Travelled by Sai Yoganathan
Eunoia Publishing Group is very pleased to invite you to a celebration of firsts. It's the launch of our first cookbook, the first title in our new non-fiction imprint Tarras Press, and the first title by author Sai Yoganathan: A Kitchen Well-Travelled.
Join us for drinks and a selection of Sai's own delicious creations.
EFTPOS available
Launch: Spearo from Mary-anne Scott - Gisborne
Sean has come from Africa with his Mum after his father's death and is finding it hard to fit in. He meets Mason and is gradually drawn into the world of competitive spearfishing. A hunting adventure from the author of Sticking with Pigs, Mary-anne Scot..
Book Launch | Brandy Scott's 'Not Bad People'
Join Unity Books & HarperCollins Publishers for the launch of Brandy Scott’s new novel 'NOT BAD PEOPLE'.
2019 Kāpiti Writers' Retreat
Immerse yourself in writing and conversation this summer at the 2019 Kāpiti Writers' Retreat. There’s something for everyone–whether you’re new to writing, an established writer, or somewhere in-between.
"The Nation Waited", the story of the first attempt to fly the Tasman Sea.
"The Nation Waited" is the story of aviators Moncrieff and Hood and their failed attempt to fly the Tasman.
In the late afternoon and evening of a lovely day at the height of summer in 1928, the New Zealand public waited anxiously while two men staked their lives in the first attempt to fly the Tasman Sea. They failed; but their names live on in New Zealand aviation history.
Before the Gale - video reading
Visit the Performance Arcade on the Wellington Waterfront from 9.30pm on February 21-24 to see a video reading of an altered book made and written by author Jess Richards.
The launch of Brin Murray's CROSSTREES
The astonishing second book in the 'Children of the Furnace' YA series.
“A compelling plot ... great writing.”
“A momentous read that you will never forget.”
Brin was shortlisted for the Mslexia 2017 Novel Prize UK. For more news about Brin’s books go to: www.brinmurray.com
Inside.Out Open Mic For Writers
Inside.Out (est. 2012) at iconic Café one2One in Ponsonby, Auckland, is open mic for writers, with fabulous musician guests each time. Everyone welcome, either to read prose or poetry at the mic (max 6 mins) or come chill as audience. Plus, there are word challenges with random book prizes, free chocolate bars and dozens of free fliers on writer and music events and opportunities to take home with you.
Launch - Fleur Adcock Collected Poems
Join Unity Books & Victoria University Press for the launch of Fleur Adcock's 'Collected Poems'.
Myth and Imagination in Creative Writing - 8 week course
8 week creative writing course at CEC Wellington, held on Tuesday evenings 5.30-7.30 from February 12.
To book, go to www.cecwellington.ac.nz
January
Inside.Out Open Mic for Writers
BRING YOUR WRITING - poems, flash fiction, short story, novel excerpts, performance poetry etc - to share or come as audience to hear what's brand new. To read, just sign up on the open mic list as you arrive. Newcomers and regulars equally welcomed. Inside out ( established 2012) also hosts a brilliant musician guest or group each time.
Who Wants to be a Superhero - Jan 28 Shows
Join award winning children’s musician Chris Sanders (111 Ambulance Hit Song) and author of 'Call For The Ambulance' as he tells us all about his Ambulance Station, how to become a Super Ambulance Hero and just what to do in an emergency.
Shows at 10am, 12pm and 1.30pm
Who Wants to be a Superhero - Jan 27 Shows
Join award winning children’s musician Chris Sanders (111 Ambulance Hit Song) and author of 'Call For The Ambulance' as he tells us all about his Ambulance Station, how to become a Super Ambulance Hero and just what to do in an emergency.
Shows at 10am, 12pm and 1.30pm
Who Wants to be a Superhero - Jan 21 Shows
Join award winning children’s musician Chris Sanders (111 Ambulance Hit Song) and author of 'Call For The Ambulance' as he tells us all about his Ambulance Station, how to become a Super Ambulance Hero and just what to do in an emergency.
Shows at 10am, 12pm and 1.30pm
Who Wants to be a Superhero - Jan 20 Shows
Join award winning children’s musician Chris Sanders (111 Ambulance Hit Song) and author of 'Call For The Ambulance' as he tells us all about his Ambulance Station, how to become a Super Ambulance Hero and just what to do in an emergency.
Shows at 10am, 12pm and 1.30pm
The Unfolding of Benjamin's Misery
An Award-winning Nomadic Storytellers Explores Dark Truths of Globalization from a Perspective of the Cultural Other through Spoken Word and Music
Ashton Wylie Trust Literature Awards 2020
The 2020 Ashton Wylie Literature Awards are now open for applications. Inviting New Zealand writers who have a holistic and spiritual view of the universe.
Open to all unpublished manuscripts and books published between 1st April 2019 and 31 March 2020.
$20,000 in prizes.
For more information and to apply https://www.awct.org.nz/bookawards.asp
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: 5PM 31st MARCH 2020
Who Wants to be a Superhero
Join award winning children’s musician Chris Sanders (111 Ambulance Hit Song) and author of 'Call For The Ambulance' as he tells us all about his Ambulance Station, how to become a Super Ambulance Hero and just what to do in an emergency.
Shows at 10am, 12pm and 1.30pm
Who Wants to be a Superhero - Jan 13 Shows
Join award winning children’s musician Chris Sanders (111 Ambulance Hit Song) and author of 'Call For The Ambulance' as he tells us all about his Ambulance Station, how to become a Super Ambulance Hero and just what to do in an emergency.
Shows at 10am, 12pm and 1.30pm
Closed to Public
Summer Writing School for Teens
A whole week of writing for teenagers with Write On School for Young Writers
The Garden Party
A reading by six poets.
Ashton Wylie Book Awards
AWCT Book and Manuscript Awards
The Trust's Mind Body Spirit Literary Awards were established in 2004. They are unique in the country for their encouragement of writing in the mind body spirit genre.
The Awards are offered annually, in two categories.
THE $10,000 ASHTON WYLIE CHARITABLE TRUST BOOK AWARD
For a book in the Mind Body Spirit genre, published between April 1 and March 31. Deadline is 31 March, in any given year.
THE $10,000 ASHTON WYLIE CHARITABLE TRUST UNPUBLISHED MANUSCRIPT AWARD
For a manuscript in the Mind Body Spirit genre. Deadline is 31 March, in any given year.
Entries will be accepted from 15 January each year.
The main purpose of the awards is to reward excellence in authorship. Books and manuscripts must be of a high standard to be considered.
By definition, the Mind Body Spirit genre is literature that demonstrates the fundamental teaching that everything is interconnected and in relationship with all else.
Since the Awards inception, the Trust has donated more than $250,000 in prize money to winners, so that they can continue writing in the Mind Body Spirit genre; providing inspiration and insight to all those that read their works.
Inside.Out Open Mic For Writers
Inside.Out (est. 2012) is open mic for writers. Everyone welcome and first-time readers are very welcome. Bring your writing - poetry, flash fiction, micro fiction, spoken word, short story, novel chapters etc - to read at the open mic (up to 6 mins max) , or come as audience to hear what's brand new. To read, just sign up as you arrive.
Great musician guests, word challenges, random book & chocolate bar prizes and plenty of takeaway fliers on literary competitions & events each time.
December
Meet Selina Tusitala Marsh
BOOK LAUNCH: Mophead Tu
You are invited to the launch of MOPHEAD TU: THE QUEEN'S POEM, Selina Tusitala Marsh's follow-up to her multi-award-winning MOPHEAD.
Tom Scott Book Signing
Acclaimed writer and cartoonist Tom Scott will be in-store at Takapuna Paper Plus signing copies of his new book 'Searching for Charlie'. This is the last opportunity to get a copy of this bestselling book signed before Christmas!
5ever LAUNCH PARTY - New Publishing House + Abridged Series
Please join us in the foyer of the historic Trades Hall to launch 5ever, a new publishing house based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara!
Radical Zine Series - Volume 1 Launch
The Freedom Shop and Wellington Zinefest are launching the Radical Zine Series.
A Palmy Boy's Story Book Launch
Book launch for "A Palmy Boy's Story, Growing up in Palmerston North, Paraburdoo and Beyond" by Lawrence Robert McCallum
Life in PN in the 1950s, 60s and early 70s and beyond. Western Australia, The Hippie Trail through Asia in 1975, Gisborne and Kawakawa.
Short talk by the author and then introductions to some of the characters from the book.
Lunchtime event for Monsters in the Garden at Te Awe Library.
Four of our most accomplished writers in New Zealand:- Elizabeth Knox, Tina Makereti, Dylan Horrocks and Craig Gamble. Reading and in conversation about their contributions to Monsters in the Garden: An Anthology of Aotearoa New Zealand Science Fiction and Fantasy.
Author talk: Linda Collins discusses ‘Loss Adjustment’
Join us to hear Linda Collins discuss her book, Loss Adjustment, with Mary Varnham, publisher at Awa Press. All welcome.
Writing about Newtown. Four writers who have set their works in Newtown (Wellington) in conversation.
Rachel Kerr author of Victory Park, Carl Shuker author of A Mistake and Michalia Arathimos author of Aukati in conversation with Mary McCallum about setting their fiction in Newtown.
With Jackson Nieuwland reading their poem from their collection I am a human being about working at Newtown Library.
Tom Scott: Searching for Charlie
Join us to hear Tom Scott talk about his new book, Searching for Charlie: In Pursuit of the Real Charles Upham VC & Bar (Upstart Press) with Matthew Wright. All welcome.
Ko Aotearoa Tātou | We Are New Zealand
Please join us for the Wellington celebration of Ko Aotearoa Tātou | We Are New Zealand: An Anthology.
NZIER presents Summer Reading List for the Prime Minister
Please join us for wine, nibbles and the launch of the NZIER 2020 Summer reading list for the Prime Minister.
A Very Mansfield Christmas
Join us for an evening of Christmas music performed by Georgia Jamieson Emms with Hugh McMillan on the piano. As well as some classic Victorian Christmas carols and music inspired by Christmases Mansfield spent in Germany and France, there will be a few Christmas favourites for an old-fashioned singalong and musings on Christmas from Mansfield’s journals and letters.
Josephine's Garden Book Launch and Author Talk
A richly imagined historical novel. This is a captivating story of love, nature and identity in Napoleon's France by New Zealand author Stephanie Parkyn.
Eat Your Heart Out by Peta Mathias
Come and join respected NZ chef, gourmet traveller and author Peta Mathias for a wildly entertaining evening not to be missed! From her latest book ‘Eat Your Heart Out’, Peta will share some dark and delicious stories of love from around the world, intertwined with tempting talk of aphrodisiacs and romantic recipes. Prepare to be taken on an informative, captivating and enchanting journey celebrating the connection between love and food. ...
Event | NZIER presents Summer Reading List for the Prime Minister
NZ Institute of Economic Research Inc (NZIER) presents Summer Reading List for the Prime Minister.
Fleur Beale The stories behind the stories
Fleur will speak about how she came to be a writer .
BWB Talks: #NoFly Tour (Palmerston North)
What happens when a leading New Zealand scientist (and frequent traveller) rules out flying for a year?
BWB Author Shaun Hendy is travelling around New Zealand by train, ferry and bus to deliver six public talks, in connection with his recently published BWB Text, #NoFly: Walking The Talk on Climate Change – an honest account of one person’s attempt ‘to adapt’ in the face of growing climate anxiety.
Join Shaun Hendy and Robert McLachlan for the final BWB event for 2019, and the last of six events in Hendy’s #NoFly national book tour!
Refreshments from 5.30pm.
Books for sale through Bruce McKenzie Booksellers.
Kerikeri: Past, present and future
Pavlova Press is calling for submissions of poetry and short prose (fiction or non-fiction, historical or contemporary) based on Kerikeri and its inhabitants past, present and future.
Charles Brasch Young Writers Essay Competition
Entries are open for the Charles Brasch Young Writers' Essay Competition, an annual award open to New Zealand writers aged 16 to 21.
November
Book Launch | Fair Weather Hitchiker by Julia Millen
Julia Millen, The Cuba Press and Unity Books warmly invite you to the launch of Julia's memoir 'Fair Weather Hitchhiker'.
Author talk: Tara Black with Dylan Horrocks
Join us to hear comic artist, Tara Black, discuss her amazing new book, 'This Is Not a Pipe' (VUP), with fellow artist, Dylan Horrocks. All welcome.
Blue Dragon Book Fair
The annual Blue Dragon Book Fair in the Ngaio Town Hall, Wellington on Saturday and Sunday 21 and 22 November is a chance to find some amazing book bargains in time for the summer holidays and support a worthy cause at the same time. BYO bags!
Meet Tom Sainsbury
Join us for a taste of Tom’s stand-up routine and a chat about 'New Zealanders: The Field Guide' (Harper Collins NZ).
Book Launch | Letters To Young People by Glenn Colquhoun
Join us to celebrate the launch of 'Letters To Young People' by Glenn Colquhoun. All welcome.
Ben Brown: 2020 Read NZ Te Pou Muramura Pānui
We're thrilled to announce that Lyttelton poet Ben Brown (Ngāti Māhuta, Ngāti Koroki, Ngāti Pāoa) will deliver our 2020 Read NZ Te Pou Muramura Pānui (formerly the Book Council Lecture) at the National Library auditorium in Wellington on November 18.
CLARICE LISPECTOR (1920-1977) – LIFE & WORK
Celebrate 100 years of one of the most fascinating authors in Brazilian literature in an evening of readings in English and Portuguese.
Storylines National Story Tour - Marlborough Region
Applications for Story Tour visits in 2020 are OPEN!
Books from our Backyard
We’re all thinking more about ‘supporting local’ and New Zealand produces outstanding writing.
Railways Studios book launch
Join us to celebrate the launch of Railways Studios: How a Government Design Studio Helped Build New Zealand, by Peter Alsop, Neill Atkinson, Katherine Milburn and Richard Wolfe, published by Te Papa Press. All welcome.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by David Riley
Auckland-based Reading Warrior author David Riley will be in Wellington for the local SLANZA meeting.
Poetry Launch Extravaganza: Hall | Newton | Cochrane
Three old-timers launch shiny new books published by Victoria University Press. Come for the wine, stay for the company! All welcome.
Author talk: Tales of The Telling Time - PJ McKay
Join author Pip McKay at Unity Books, for an entertaining lunchtime session.
Children's Event: Treasure Beyond Measure - Helen Griffiths
Join NZ author, Helen Griffiths, as she shares her delightful debut, ‘Treasure Beyond Measure - a Collective Noun Safari’.
Story Time for Kids at Milford Centre
Hear Cheyney McDonnell read her book "Thank You For Feeding Freckle", plus do some colouring-in and get a sticker!
Verb Festival
Wellington’s favourite indie writers and ideas festival returns this November with a programme packed with Aoetearoa’s top writers, poets, storytellers and journalists.
Fake News - The Other Virus
Misinformation and Disinformation in the Age Of Covid19
Presented by the Dunedin Writers & Readers Festival.
David Shanks, NZ Classifications Office Chief Censor, and Kate Hannah, Deputy Director, Equity & Inclusion, Te Pūnaha Matatini, discuss the problem of fake news with journalist & author Stephen Davis.
What is the scale of the problem and how should ‘the authorities’ be working to combat it? Should we all just have fewer opinions? Just read more books…?
Is there a solution?
Lunchtime Poetry Reading with Karlo Mila
Unity Books and Huia Publishers invite you to hear renowned Pasifika poet Karlo Mila share readings from Goddess Muscle.
Launch of 'The Forger and the Thief'
The official launch of the latest thriller by New Zealand author Kirsten McKenzie - The Forger and the Thief.
Set in Florence, Italy, The Forger and the Thief is set amongst the devastating floods of November 1966, where the River Arno ravaged Florence's artworks, architecture and citizens. The launch of The Forger and the Thief coincides with the 54th anniversary of the floods.
Kirsten's previous thrillers - Painted and Doctor Perry, were both bestsellers in the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia, enjoying a long run in the horror charts. Kirsten is a full time author based in Auckland.
Mauri Ola Live - Whenua Ūkaipō Connectedness - Wā Kōrero
Our closing night special features spoken word and Taonga Puoro (traditional Māori instruments).
Guests/Speakers:
Dr Selina Tusitala Marsh (performing artist)
Rob Thorne (performing artist)
Take Your Space: Successful Women Share Their Secrets
Join Jo Cribb, one of the authors of 'Take Your Space: Successful Women Share Their Secrets' + a panel at this lunchtime discussion.
The Residents: Made in Wellington - Book Launch
Come join Lucy and Unity Books for an evening celebrating the spirit of Wellingtonians.
Book launch - Spaghetti Giraffe and the Egg of Courage
Join us to celebrate the launch of Spaghetti Giraffe and the Egg of Courage, the latest book by Sarah Johnson and Deborah Hinde.
There'll be readings, signings, craft and cake, and a chance to explore the many treasures on offer in Hamilton's best book shop - Book for Kids!
BWB Talks: #NoFly Tour (Wellington)
What happens when a leading New Zealand scientist (and frequent traveller) rules out flying for a year?
BWB Author Shaun Hendy is travelling around New Zealand by train, ferry and bus to deliver six public talks, in connection with his recently published BWB Text, #NoFly: Walking The Talk on Climate Change – an honest account of one person’s attempt ‘to adapt’ in the face of growing climate anxiety.
Join Shaun Hendy, Rebecca Priestley (chair) and panelists at the Public Trust Hall for the fifth public talk and discussion of Shaun’s now six-stop, national #NoFly tour.
Refreshments and nibbles will be served
Launch | 2020 Writers Programme
Nau mai, haere mai, piki mai to a celebration of the 2020 Writers programme https://www.festival.nz/events/writers/
as part of the New Zealand Festival of the Arts
https://www.festival.nz/events/all/
BWB Talks: #NoFly National Tour (Blenheim)
Over two weeks in November, BWB Author Shaun Hendy will travel around New Zealand by train, ferry and bus to deliver five public talks, in connection with his recently published BWB Text, #NoFly: Walking The Talk on Climate Change – an honest account of one person’s attempt ‘to adapt’ in the face of growing climate anxiety.
BWB Talks: #NoFly Tour (Blenheim)
What happens when a leading New Zealand scientist (and frequent traveller) rules out flying for a year?
Over two weeks in November, BWB Author Shaun Hendy is travelling around New Zealand by train, ferry and bus to deliver five public talks, in connection with his recently published BWB Text, #NoFly: Walking The Talk on Climate Change – an honest account of one person’s attempt ‘to adapt’ in the face of growing climate anxiety.
Join #BWBTexts author, scientist, and frequent traveller Shaun Hendy, with local chair Budyong Hill, in Blenheim to discuss how we can reduce our carbon emissions by flying less – and to share some practical tips from his recent #NoFly year!
BWB Talks: #NoFly Tour (Kaikōura)
What happens when a leading New Zealand scientist (and frequent traveller) rules out flying for a year?
Over two weeks in November, BWB Author Shaun Hendy is travelling around New Zealand by train, ferry and bus to deliver five public talks, in connection with his recently published BWB Text, #NoFly: Walking The Talk on Climate Change – an honest account of one person’s attempt ‘to adapt’ in the face of growing climate anxiety.
Join #BWBTexts author, scientist, and frequent traveller Shaun Hendy, with local chair Ted Howard, in Kaikōura to discuss how we can reduce our carbon emissions by flying less – and to share some practical tips from his recent #NoFly year!
BWB Talk: Pākehā Settlements in a Māori World
Join author Ian Smith in celebration of the publication of 'Pākehā Settlements in a Māori World', and in recognition of his long career at the University of Otago.
Taking the Sting out of Editing
A one-day workshop with Catherine Robertson helps manage the emotional and practical aspects of editing.
Stories Below Sea Level: the Climate in Conversation
Join authors Maria Bargh, Rebecca Priestley, Tim Jones and Jess Richards as they discuss how the climate crisis shapes their work, writing and everyday lives.
Closed to Public
Cultivate: A Writing Retreat with Jesse Blackadder
This three-day residential writing retreat with award-winning Australian novelist and children’s book author Jesse Blackadder will give you the skills and confidence to turn your story idea into something remarkable.
BWB Talk: #NoFly Tour (Christchurch)
Over two weeks in November, BWB Author Shaun Hendy will travel around New Zealand by train, ferry and bus to deliver five public talks, in connection with his recently published BWB Text, '#NoFly: Walking The Talk on Climate Change' – an honest account of one person’s attempt ‘to adapt’ in the face of growing climate anxiety.
BWB Talk: #NoFly Tour
What happens when a leading New Zealand scientist (and frequent traveller) rules out flying for a year?
Combined Book Launch by authors Ben Spies and Isa Pearl Ritchie
Local authors Ben Spies and Isa Pearl Ritchie invite you to their combined book launch at the Children's Bookshop in Kilbirnie, Welington.
Drinks and nibbles provided.
RSVP:
Omar Musa, Michael Pedersen, Dominic Hoey
WORD Christchurch is pleased to announce the return of three of the biggest hits of the 2018 festival. Poets Omar Musa (Australia), Michael Pedersen (Scotland) and Dominic Hoey (New Zealand) will once again come together from different parts of the globe to regale you with poetry.
Book Launch | All Who Live on Islands by Rose Lu
Unity Books Wellington and Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of
ALL WHO LIVE ON ISLANDS
BY ROSE LU
to be launched by Nina Mingya Powles. All welcome.
An Evening with Zadie Smith
WORD Christchurch, in association with Penguin Random House New Zealand, is proud to present an evening with Zadie Smith, one of the most critically acclaimed and important literary voices of a generation.
BWB Talks: The Dark Island (Wellington)
BWB author and historian Benjamin Kingsbury discusses his new book, 'The Dark Island', with chair Dr Miranda Johnson.
Jiffy, Cat Detective by Catherine Chidgey BOOK LAUNCH
Book Launch for Catherine Chidgey's first book for children.
Afternoon tea, a colouring competition and a reading - bring the family.
Book Launch in the Kapiti Coast - Ben Spies
Local teenage author Ben Spies launches his fourth book - a science fiction for older children called 2020.
2019 New Zealand Children's Writers' and Illustrators Hui
A National Hui for children’s writers and illustrators will take place in Dunedin over the weekend of 8-10 November, 2019, in association with Storylines.
Some of the country’s best and most beloved children’s book creators will join influential industry professionals to deliver a diverse programme of workshops, keynotes, and panel discussions – right in the heart of New Zealand’s UNESCO City of Literature. Full programme details will be released shortly. Contact co-convenors Trish Brooking (trishbrooking@gmail.com) or Jackie McMillan (jackie.mcmillan@dcc.govt.nz) for more information.
Book Launch | Protest Tautohetohe by Stephanie Gibson, Matariki Williams & Puawai Cairns
Unity Books and Te Papa Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of
PROTEST TAUTOHETOHE: OBJECTS OF RESISTANCE, PERSISTANCE AND DEFIANCE
by Stephanie Gibson, Matariki Williams & Puawai Cairns
All welcome.
VERB FESTIVAL feat. LITCRAWL
A five-day writers festival celebrating Aotearoa authors and international guests. The festival features LitCrawl (25 events in 3.5 hours in 25 venues in Wellington's CBD) on Saturday 9 November. The programme is launched on 4 September.
Listening to the Waves: part 2
The second of a two-day workshop with Lynn Jenner which looks at tuning in to the sound and rhythm of your sentences and paragraphs.
The first will take place on October 19 (see separate listing).
Lunchtime Author event | Mike White: How to Walk a Dog
Unity Books Wellington & Allen & Unwin NZ warmly invite you to hear Mike White discuss his new book, 'How to Walk a Dog' illustrated by Sharon Murdoch, with Jeremy Taylor (Slow Boat Records). All welcome.
Women's History in the Puke Ariki Collection
Join historian and author Barbara Brookes and Puke Ariki curators as they explore the history of New Zealand women through objects and artworks from the museum’s extensive collection. This engaging presentation will encourage us to see New Zealand’s history through a female lens: from the points of view of wives, daughters, mothers, grandmothers, sisters, and aunts.
Lunchtime Event | The Ice Shelf by Anne Kennedy
Unity Books & Victoria University Press warmly invite you to hear Anne Kennedy discuss her new novel with Pip Adam.
Book launch | My Body, My Business: New Zealand Sex Workers in an Era of Change by Caren Wilton photographs by Madeleine Slavick
Unity Books Wellington & Otago University Press warmly invite you to the launch of My Body, My Business: New Zealand Sex Workers in an Era of Change by Caren Wilton photographs by Madeleine Slavick
Tax Is Love: A Panel Discussion
Economist Shamubeel Eaqub inspired a flurry of reactions around the country when he declared in a column for Stuff that ‘tax is love’. In this BWB Winter Series event Shamubeel will be joined by Lisa Marriott, Jess Berentson-Shaw and chair Max Rashbrooke to debate the nature of tax: is it love or is it theft? Come along, hear the discussion, and make up your own mind.
This event is part of the BWB Winter Series. BWB acknowledges the support of Creative New Zealand.
Book launch | Scenic Playground: The Story Behind NZ’s Mountain Tourism
Unity Books and Te Papa Press warmly invite you to join us for the launch of "Scenic Playground: The Story Behind NZ’s Mountain Tourism"
by Peter Alsop, Dave Bamford and Lee Davidson
Book Launch: Onward Knits
A launch party for Onward Knits, a book of knitting patterns inspired by the Wellington Railway Station.
Of bush and birds: New Zealand as 'fairyland'
The Friends of the Dorothy Neal White Collection
invite you to a talk by
Kay Hancock
Of bush and birds: New Zealand as 'fairyland'
Book Launch: The World of Greek Mythology and The Trespassers Club
Join twelve-year old author Ben Spies and children's author and tutor Helen Vivienne Fletcher in their combined Book Launch set to inspire young writers.
TRUE? - Short Stories - Reading by author Michael Botur
Author Michael Botur reads short stories from his new collection 'TRUE?' at Time Out Bookstore, Mt Eden, Auckland.
Riders of Fire Book Launch & Medieval Fun
Riders of Fire book launch—a new teen dragon series by award-winning author, Eileen Mueller. Dragons, archery, swords & cosplay. Crafts & prizes. Fun for all ages.
The Habit of Art
This workshop, co-taught by writer Pip Adam and visual artist Rebekah Rasmussen, is an opportunity to make visual art and then write.
Ben Brown at Golden Bay Live Poets
Ben Brown was born in Motueka and is of Waikato-Tainui descent. The 2009 writer-in-residence at Hagley College in Christchurch, he was awarded the Maori Writer’s Residency at the Michael King Writers' Centre in 2011. Brown turned his book, The Kindling and the Blaze: Reflections on the Concept of Mana, into a performance piece that explored the Maori concept of mana; the book was shortlisted in the 2014 Nga Kupu Ora Aotearoa Maori Book Awards.
Inside.Out Open Mic For Writers
Inside.Out (est. 2012 and going strong) is open mic for writers. Bring your writing - poetry, flash, short story, novel extracts, non fiction or performance poetry and spoken word - to read at the mic, or come as audience. Everyone welcome, including creative writing students of all ages and first-time readers.
Book launch – Mountains to Sea: Solving New Zealand's Freshwater Crisis (BWB Texts)
Join editor Mike Joy to celebrate the launch of Mountains to Sea: Solving New Zealand’s Freshwater Crisis.
Book Launch | Tart & Bitter by David Burton
Join Unity Books and Potton & Burton for the launch of 'Tart & Bitter: Four Decades of Dining Nightmares' by David Burton. All welcome!
Book Launch | Theo Schoon by Damian Skinner
Unity Books & Massey University Press warmly invite you to the launch of Damian Skinner’s new book 'THEO SCHOON: A BIOGRAPHY'.
Lunchtime Event | The Friday Poem
Join Unity Books & Luncheon Sausage Books as editor Steve Braunias introduces his new poetry anthology 'The Friday Poem: 100 New Zealand Poems'. With readings from Dame Fiona Kidman, Bill Manhire, Joy Holley, James Brown & Tayi Tibble.
In the Shadow of War
Featherston Booktown hosts an event to mark the centenary of the Armistice on 11 November, titled ‘In the Shadow of War’ which explores eminent historian, Paul Ham’s writings that “The victory of 1918 destroyed our civilisation. Nothing can make that worthwhile.”
Lunchtime Event | The Writing Life
Join Unity Books & Massey University Press for a lunchtime event!
Deborah Shepard in conversation with her publisher Nicola Legat, and with readings by Dame Fiona Kidman and Patricia Grace.
Lunchtime Event - Poetry readings by Saradha Koirala & Nicola Easthope
Unity Books & The Cuba Press warmly invite you to a lunchtime event with poets Saradha Koirala & Nicola Easthope as they read from their new poetry collections.
Launch - Birdstories by Geoff Norman
Join Unity Books Wellington & Potton & Burton for the launch of 'Birdstories: A History of the Birds of New Zealand' by Geoff Norman.
Winter Series: Parihaka: Plunder and Aftermath – Dr Rachel Buchanan in Conversation with Hon Mahara Okeroa
‘Knowledge Beats Shame’
On 5 November 1881, over 1500 colonial troops and their Māori allies invaded the village of Parihaka near the Taranaki coast. Many people were expelled, buildings destroyed, and rangatira Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi were jailed.
Join Taranaki kaumātua and Treaty negotiator Hon Mahara Okeroa (Taranaki, Te Ātiawa) and Dr Rachel Buchanan (Taranaki, Te Ātiawa), author of BWB Text Ko Taranaki Te Maunga, at the National Library for the anniversary of te pāhuatanga, the invasion of Parihaka.
The BIG Mid-Spring Write-In
Love to Write? Craving some focused writing time?
Or maybe you just want to get your creative groove back.
Join me for the BIG Mid-Spring Write-In - an inspiring one-day writing event that will motivate you to nail your writing goal - no matter how big or small.
Meet kikki.K Founder, Kristina Karlsson
To celebrate the launch of Dream Life and her debut book ‘Your Dream Life Starts Here’, kikki.k Founder, Kristina Karlsson will be joined by Dr. Tererai Trent – Oprah Winfrey’s all-time favourite guest at our Lambton Quay store for a book signing event.
October
Whenua Ūkaipō Connetcedness - Free Art Exhibition
A United Nations 75th anniversary art exhibition, bringing forward authentic Māori, indigenous and many cultures artistic visions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Wellington Poetry Slam Final 2020 - Festival of Slam
Who will be Wellington's Slam Champ 2020? Motif Poetry and Poetry in Motion Wellington bring you Wellington's top performance poets. The winners will travel to Christchurch in November to compete for the title of New Zealand Slam Champ.
Be quick, this event always sells out!
WORD Christchurch Festival
New Dates! Mark your diaries... the 2020 WORD Christchurch Festival will now be taking place from 30 October - 1 November, with a new grassroots programme.
Launch of ‘DietVale’
The official launch of 'Dietvale', a horror thriller from multi-genre New Zealand author, Andrene Low.
Squiggla - Bringing Arts Back into the Classroom
From the co-developers of Squiggla and Te Uru
Launch | Bus Stops on the Moon: Red Mole Days 1974-1980 by Martin Edmond
Join Otago University Press in celebrating the launch of Martin Edmond’s Bus Stops on the Moon: Red Mole days 1974–1980.
KISS ME OR KISMET?
Launch of the fourth issue of NMIT’s arts and literary journal "kiss me hardy".
Escaping the Poem
Cliff Fell and John Newton perform parts of their hybrid works, an epic poem and a verse novel.
Pukapuka Talks: Annabel Langbein
Annabel Langbein discusses her new memoir, Bella: My Life in Food, with Nicola Galloway.
Pukapuka Talks: Our Grandfathers
Ian Trafford and William Moloney have both written fascinating novels based on their grandfathers’ WWI diaries.
Pukapuka Talks: Historical Fiction
Christine Leunens and Alexandra Tidswell discuss how they work with both research and imagination when creating characters from the past.
Miriam Lancewood: Wild At Heart
Miriam Lancewood talks with Kerry Sunderland about her gripping sequel to the international bestseller, "Woman in the Wilderness".
NZSA Writing Workshop
Two-hour workshop with award-winning YA author Mandy Hager
Writing Young Adult Fiction
Multi-award winning author of fiction for young adults Mandy Hager in conversation with local YA writers Rachael Craw, Brin Murray and Robyn Prokop.
Not Just for Laughs: Eamonn Marra and Lil O’Brien
Eamonn Marra and Lil O’Brien discuss the balance between comedy and tragedy in their debut books.
The launch of Reading the signs a poetry collection by Janis Freegard.
The launch of a new collection of Poetry by Janis Freegard.
Our People, Our Cultures, Our Languages
Panel discussion about our multicultural whenua
Pukapuka Talks: Fleeing to Freedom
Behrouz Boochani and Golriz Ghahraman in conversation with journalist Anke Richter.
Writing Funny, Writing Sad
Comedy writing masterclass with stand-up comedian and novelist Eamonn Marra
EVENT – LAUNCH – LAND Te Whē ki Tukorehe
What does it mean to speak from the whenua?
Do you want to hear about new directions in Māori literature?
Come, put your ear to the land, and listen to the writings of Te Whē ki Tukorehe.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by James Russell
Auckland based author of the Dragons Brothers and Dragon Defenders books (with augmented reality app!) will be visiting schools around Christchurch this week.
Pukapuka Talks
Nelson literary festival Pukapuka Talks presents a varied programme of topical and stimulating talks, discussions and workshops with appeal to readers, writers and people who like to have something to think about.
Nelson Live Poets
Featuring Rachel McAlpine performing from her new collection of poems, "How to Be Old".
Inspire Series - Joyce Campbell
The next in Te Uru's Inspire Series
Southern Writers at Te Awe Brandon Library – 20 Oct 2020
We are very excited to announce our first ever author event at Wellington's fabulous new Te Awe library.
Six Southern poets and prose writers giving a very special lunch time reading. All hail from Dunedin or Southland.
Including; Kay McKenzie Cooke, Richard Langston, Tim Jones, Nick Ascroft, Madison Hamill and Jenny Powell, with Mary McCallum reading some of the late Elizabeth Brooke-Carr’s work.
Storylines National Story Tour - Central Plateau Region
Applications for Story Tour visits in 2020 are OPEN!
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Daisy Lavea-Timo
Christchurch based slam poet Daisy Lavea-Timo is visiting schools in Hawke's Bay this week.
Closed to Public
Writers in Schools visits by Gareth Ward
Hawke's Bay based author Gareth Ward is visiting schools in Northland this week.
Kā Huru Manu: Projects from the Ngāi Tahu Archive
HB Readers and Writers Festival presents Sir Tipene O'Regan, Takerei Norton and Helen Brown
Native Son
Witi Ihimaera in conversation with Marty Smith
Bella: My Life in Food
Annabel Langbein in conversation with Lizzie Russell at the Hawkes Bay Readers and Writers Festival.
Puppy Zen + How to Walk a Dog
HB Readers and Writers Festival presents Mark Vette and Mike White in conversation with Louise Ward
Night of the Dragons
HB Readers and Writers Festival presents James Russell and Gareth Ward in an interactive event for young minds
Born to Be Wild
HB Readers and Writers Festival presents Adele Broadbent and Mary-anne Scott in conversation with Gareth Ward
Escape!
A ‘pop-up’ version of the popular Escape! festival will take place in Tauranga on October 17 and 18 with tickets on sale from September 16.
Running for Redemption
HB Readers and Writers Festival presents Matt Calman and Steve Gurney in conversation with Louise Ward
Book Feast
Join us on October 17th- NZ Bookshop Day for - Book Feast -a book festival for children
WBAJ charity book signing
We have so many talented authors here in New Zealand and abroad, and WBAJ is the place to meet them!
Escape!
The Little Festival with Big Ideas
How to Get Away With Murder
HB Readers and Writers Festival presents Nalini Singh, Charity Norman and Cynric Temple Camp in conversation wit Lynda Corner
Magpies in Our Back Yard
HB Readers and Writers Festival presents Mark Sweet, Catherine Robertson and Cristina Sanders in conversation with Lizzie Russell
Short and sweet
Workshop Offering: Short and sweet - an introduction to the art of short form journalism - Mike White, $30, places limited. Book at hbaf.co.nz
Hawkes Bay Readers and Writers Festival
A weekend of smart conversation from some of our best writers, thinkers and speakers
Kristian Fredrikson: Designer panel discussion
Join us to celebrate the publication of Kristian Fredrikson: Designer - by Michelle Potter (Melbourne Books).
Renter writes: Eamonn Marra & Murdoch Stephens talk books
Join us for a lunchtime discussion with authors, Eamonn Marra (2000ft Above Worry Level) and Murdoch Stephens (Rat King Landlord).
The Present Continuous: Poets on pandemic elections and neverending colonisation
Poetry reading from Anahera Gildea, Laniyuk, Areez Katki, Henrietta Bollinger, Aziembry Aolani, Michaela Keeble, Dallas Karangaroa and...
Yarns in Barns
Save the date! Wairarapa's biennial literary festival happening.
Tu Meke Tūī! Live On Stage (Hamilton)
Adapted from the popular children's book by Malcolm Clarke. A Tu Meke Tūī! and Auckland Live production. Presented by Tour-Makers.
David Coventry Lunchtime Event at Unity Books
Join us for a lunchtime author talk as award winning novelist David Coventry is joined in discussion by Brannavan Gnanalingam.
Girl in the Mirror Unity Wellington Lunchtime Event
Join Rose Carlyle, author of the #1 bestseller The Girl in the Mirror, for this author talk and book signing at Unity Wellington.
Tu Meke Tūī! Live On Stage (Gisborne)
Adapted from the popular children's book by Malcolm Clarke. A Tu Meke Tūī! and Auckland Live production. Presented by Tour-Makers. Part of the Te Tairāwhiti Arts Festival 2020.
Stuff that's Loud by Ben Sedley & Lisa Coyne NZ Book Launch
Join us to celebrate the launch of Stuff that's Loud: A Teen's Guide to Unspiralling When OCD Gets Noisy.
Tu Meke Tūī! Live On Stage (Hastings)
Adapted from the popular children's book by Malcolm Clarke. A Tu Meke Tūī! and Auckland Live production. Presented by Tour-Makers
'A Baa-rilliant Adventure' Book Launch Oxford
Celebrating the launch of 'A Baa-rilliant Adventure' - what happens to the sheep when their shepherds run off to Bethlehem ...
James Charlton: THROWN
The latest from James Charlton
The Final Choice Book Tour - Nelson Event 2
Here’s your chance to get informed about the End of Life Choice Act with journalist and author of best-selling book The Final Choice, Caralise Trayes.
The Final Choice Book Tour - Nelson Daytime Event
Here’s your chance to get informed about the End of Life Choice Act with journalist and author of best-selling book The Final Choice, Caralise Trayes.
The Final Choice Book Tour - Nelson Event 1
Here’s your chance to get informed about the End of Life Choice Act with journalist and author of best-selling book The Final Choice, Caralise Trayes.
The Hallowe'en launch of "The Uncomfortable Glass Slippers"
Join in the spooky fun to celebrate the launch of The Uncomfortable Glass Slippers! There will definitely be treats if you come dressed up, as well as games, awesome books for sale and
BWB Talk: Rebuilding the Kāinga (Whangārei)
Author Jade Kake is joined by Aroha Shelford, Eamon Nathan, Wiki Walker and Brandon Edwards at Whangārei Terenga Parāoa Marae for a discussion of her new book Rebuilding the Kāinga: Lessons from Te Ao Hurihuri.
Lunchtime Author Event | Peter Simpson & Jill Trevelyan discuss Colin McCahon
Unity Books Wellington & Auckland University Press warmly invite you to a lunchtime author event with
PETER SIMPSON
in conversation with curator, reviewer and author Jill Trevelyan about
'Colin McCahon: There is Only One Direction, Vol. I 1919–1959'.
Lunchtime Author Event | Peter Simpson & Jill Trevelyan discuss Colin McCahon
Unity Books Wellington & Auckland University Press warmly invite you to a lunchtime author event with
PETER SIMPSON
in conversation with curator, reviewer and author Jill Trevelyan about
'Colin McCahon: There is Only One Direction, Vol. I 1919–1959'.
2019 Wham Bam Author Jam
Wham Bam Author Jam is a charity book signing event, showcasing authors from New Zealand and Australia.
Flow Generation. A Survival Guide for our unpredictable lives
FREE EVENT: "Flow Generation. A Survival Guide for our unpredictable lives."
by Vera Sprothen and Nicoló Andreula
Hindsight by Mandy Hager BOOK LAUNCH
Mandy Hager launches this non-fiction book, looking at four pivotal events in NZ history and how it affected our social evolution.
Source material, links and resources
Book Launch | Social Media by Mary Macpherson
Unity Books Wellington, Mary Macpherson and The Cuba Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Social Media' by Mary Macpherson with readings by The Meow Gurrrls. All welcome.
Paint n’ Pen: Free Creative Writing Workshop - 20 Oct
Write a short story, a poem or some lyrics inspired by Christchurch's rich street art and get published! We are offering a series of workshops plus guided tour to work on your ideas. Open to writers, budding and established, of all ages.
Letter to a Weta Picture Book Launch
Meet the author and artist!
Meet Lee Kimber and Matt Kambic and purchase one of the first copies of this wonderful new book!
Listening to the Waves: part 1
A two-day workshop with Lynn Jenner which looks at tuning in to the sound and rhythm of your sentences and paragraphs.
This listing is for the first workshop. See the separate listing for the second part, which will be held on November 2.
Book Launch | Females In The Frame: Women, Art, And Crime by Penelope Jackson
Unity Books Wellington and The New Zealand Art Crime Research Trust warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Females In The Frame: Women, Art, And Crime' by Penelope Jackson.
All welcome.
Owls Do Cry - Auckland
The first ever theatre production of New Zealand’s first great novel. Red Leap brings the delight of reading to life, bringing their signature devising styles to beloved author Janet Frame
Book Launch | The Burning River by Lawrence Patchett
Unity Books Wellington and Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of The Burning River by Lawrence Patchett. All welcome.
BWB Talk: The Dark Island
Join author Benjamin Kingsbury in Christchurch in conversation with Sally Blundell (chair) to celebrate the launch of his new book, The Dark Island: Leprosy in New Zealand and the Quail Island Colony.
BWB Talk: Rebuilding the Kāinga
Author and architectural designer Jade Kake talks with Jess Berentson-Shaw about the resurgence of contemporary papakāinga – and her vision for the future.
BWB Talk: The New Zealand Wars | Ngā Pakanga o Aotearoa
Join acclaimed historian Vincent O’Malley in Dunedin for a public talk on the New Zealand Wars.
Paint n’ Pen: Free Creative Writing Workshop - 13 Oct
Write a short story, a poem or some lyrics inspired by Christchurch's rich street art and get published! We are offering a series of workshops plus guided tour to work on your ideas. Open to writers, budding and established, of all ages.
Closed to Public
Find Your Way Forward II with Elizabeth Knox
Whether you are writing short fiction, a novel, or a work of creative non-fiction there is always a way in which your story will want best to be told.
Acclaimed New Zealand author Elizabeth Knox (The Vintner's Luck), will support you to find a clear direction for your story - and, along the way, you'll learn to become a shrewder, more flexible, confident and daring storyteller.
Lunchtime Author Event | Mike Chunn: A Sharp Left Turn
Unity Books Wellington and Allen & Unwin warmly invite you to a lunchtime author event with Mike Chunn discussing his memoir 'A Sharp Left Turn: Notes on a life in music, from Split Enz to Play It Strange' with Radio NZ’s Bryan Crump. All welcome.
Inside.Out Open Mic for Writers
BRING YOUR WRITING - poetry, flash fiction, micro fiction, short story, novel excerpts, performance poetry etc - to share at the open mic (up to 6 mins max) , or come as audience to hear what's brand new.To read, just sign up on the open mic list as you arrive. Everyone welcome.( For prose, please time your piece aloud beforehand.) Inside.Out and Cafe One2One have been providing this space for writers since 2012.
Book Launch | We Are Here: An Atlas of Aotearoa by Chris McDowall & Tim Denee
Unity Books Wellington and Massey University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'We Are Here: An Atlas of Aotearoa' by Chris McDowall and Tim Denee. All welcome.
Auckland Heritage Festival: Gertie and the Geese Book Launch
The Book Launch, for Gertie and the Geese, published by Mahi Books. Following on from the publication of Barkell and Mr Arkell last year, this is the second book in the series about event and characters from the lost suburb of Newton East, Auckland.
Drawing, Art, Illustration Workshop for Kids - Wellington
Learn to create illustrations like a published illustrator - with a published illustrator!
WRITERS ON MONDAYS: This Hostile Place: Carl Shuker and Lawrence Patchett
This Hostile Place: Carl Shuker and Lawrence Patchett
BWB Talks: Ngā Pakanga o Aotearoa Talk | The New Zealand Wars
Join award-winning journalist Mihingarangi Forbes and acclaimed historian Vincent O’Malley on the legacy and impact of The New Zealand Wars
Te Hā National Māori Writer’s Hui
Te Hā National Māori Writer’s Hui. More info to follow...
Owls Do Cry - Oamaru
The first ever theatre production of New Zealand’s first great novel by the late Janet Frame. Red Leap brings the delight of reading to life, bringing their signature devising styles to a beloved author. Set in Oamaru, this is a special show about small town love, grief and hope.
Join us for the launch of our 2019 reading research
We would love you to join us for the launch of our 2019 reading research on Thursday October 3, 2019.
In Conversation: Liz Nugent and Kirsten McDougall
Join us for a special evening with two acclaimed storytellers who craft suspenseful tales centred on unforgettable protagonists.
New Zealand Young Writers Festival
A festival for young writers and everyone who loves literature.
Book Launch | Flying High: The Photography of Lloyd Homer by Simon Nathan
Unity Books Wellington & Geoscience Society of New Zealand warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of
'Flying High: The Photography of Lloyd Homer' by Simon Nathan
to be launched by the Rt Hon Simon Upton. All welcome.
Book Launch | Craven by Jane Arthur
Unity Books Wellington and Victoria University Press warmly invite you to celebrate the launch of 'Craven', the debut poetry collection by Jane Arthur. All welcome.
Holiday Creative Writing Camp - Auckland - North Shore
Learn to write stories like a published author - with a published author! On our fun holiday workshops.
Holiday Creative Writing Camp - Queenstown
Learn to write stories like a published author - with a published author!
False Divides: Lana Lopesi in conversation with Emma Ng
In this BWB Winter Series event, Lana Lopesi, author of the newly released BWB Text False Divides, is in conversation with writer and curator Emma Ng discussing the question: is the Pacific Ocean - Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa - a divider or a connector?
Launch of Joy Cowley's 'Veil Over the Light: Selected Spiritual Writings'
You are warmly invited to the launch of 'Veil Over The Light: Selected Spiritual Writings' by Joy Cowley.
Words Will Work: South Auckland Writers Festival
Even if you’ve only written a To-Do list before, this very first South Auckland Writers Festival may be just what you need to hit the ground writing.
The aim of our festival is to provide an event for writers that has a uniquely South Auckland flavour.
Lunchtime Event - Monsters of Virtue
Unity Books & Escalator Press warmly invite you to a lunchtime author event with L.J. Ritchie discussing his new book 'Monsters of Virtue' with Madeleine Collinge.
FESTA 2018: DNR - Death, Nibbles and Refreshments - book launch
As part of FESTA 2018 and following the Death Cafe, join Freerange Press at the Space Academy as they launch the inaugural edition of the new Radical Futures series, Death and Dying in New Zealand.
FESTA 2018: Food and the City Symposium
Join Freerange Press, contributors to their book Kai and culture: Food stories from Aotearoa, and invited guests for a symposium where they explore some of the issues involved in the growing, making and eating of our food, and its potential for positive impact in our cities.
The Word, The Reckoning and The Rose
Golden Bay Live Poets presents The Word, The Reckoning and The Rose, three Nelson and Golden Bay poets with diverse styles, genuine voices and a love for the written and spoken word. They are Mark Raffills, Henry Ludbrook and Rose Michel von Dreger.
Launch - 'Karori Confidential' by Leah McFall
Join Unity Books & Luncheon Sausage Books to celebrate the release of
'KARORI' CONFIDENTIAL: SELECTED POEMS by Leah McFall
Cook's Cook Launch
Gecko Press and Scorpio Books warmly invite you to celebrate the release of Cook's Cook, the Cook who Cooked for Captain Cook by Gavin Bishop at Tūranga in Christchurch.
Lunchtime event: Prime Minister’s Awards for Literary Achievement
The recipients of the 2018 Prime Ministers Awards for Literary Achievement will read and discuss their work with Radio New Zealand journalist and Nine to Noon host Kathryn Ryan.
Lunchtime Event - A Change of Key by Adrienne Jansen
Escalator Press & Unity Books warmly invite you to a lunchtime author event with Adrienne Jansen, in conversation with Brannavan Gnanalingam, to celebrate the launch of Adrienne’s new book 'A Change of Key'.
Join Adrienne and Brannavan as they discuss their recent publications and the representation of the migrant and refugee experience in New Zealand literature.
Launch - Emma Gilkison 'Heart of Jesus Valentino'
Unity Books Wellington & Awa Press warmly invite you to the launch of 'The Heart of Jesús Valentino: A Mother’s Story' by Emma Gilkison.
Writers on Mondays: Kate Camp
The IIML is delighted to announce the addition of this special event to the 2018 Writers on Mondays series: spread the word, it’s going to be good! Please note the change from our usual venue in Te Papa.
Adrienne Jansen 'A Change of Key' Launch
The Score is back!
Remember The Score's odd and lovable characters? Adrienne Jansen picks up their story in her new novel.
Featuring violinist Vanya Mateeva, a glimpse of behind-the-scenes research, and a competition for the kids about mice!
Book Launch of Our Superbaby!
Our Superbaby! A picture book by Maris O’Rourke and illustrated by Helen Bell will be launched by Dr Libby Limbrick- researcher, children’s literature expert and chair of Storylines.
Writers on Mondays: The Next Page 2
Part Two of the popular Next Page sessions features readings from Andrei Seleznev, Charlotte Forrester, Sinead Overbye, Tim Grgec, Johanna Knox, Anna Rankin, Laura Southgate, Madison Hamill, Tracey Schuyt and Rose Lu, introduced by Emily Perkins.
Meet Stacy Gregg!
Meet award-winning author Stacy Gregg, creator of the Pony Club Secrets and Pony Club Rivals series, at selected Whitcoulls Auckland stores these school holidays.