Book events and opportunities for writers calendar

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.

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.

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

Writers in Schools visits by Kyle Mewburn

Otago based author Kyle Mewburn is visiting schools in Canterbury this week.

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

Creative scriptwriting work in progress directed by students

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.

NZ Society of Authors National Writers Forum

THE NATIONAL WRITERS FORUM is the biennial event for writers run by THE NEW ZEALAND SOCIETY OF AUTHORS (PEN NZ INC) TE PUNI KAITUHI O AOTEAROA .

Philipa Werry 'Writing from War to Peace'

Philippa will describe her current writing project, based on her visit to Antarctica in 2016.

Writers on Mondays: Short Sharp Script 1

Creative scriptwriting students direct their work in progress

Going West Books & Writers Festival

Going West Festival - an intimate experience with New Zealand's best and most loved writers and thinkers.

The Imaginary Lives of James Pōneke by Tina Makereti

Join Tina Makereti and friends as we launch her new novel The Imaginary Lives of James Pōneke

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.

Lunchtime Event - Word to the Wise by Mark Broatch

Join Unity Books Wellington as author Mark Broatch discusses his new book 'Word to the Wise: Untangling the Mix-Ups, Misuse & Myths of Language' with fellow author Catherine Robertson.

Writers on Mondays: The Next Page 1

Creative Writing students read their work in progress

False Divides: Lana Lopesi in conversation with Damon Salesa

Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa is the great ocean continent. For those Indigenous to the Pacific, the Moana was traditionally a connector and an ancestor. Imperialism, however, has created false divides between islands and separated their peoples.

EDUCATION EXPO TAURANGA

An expo for all levels of learning from pre-school right up to tertiary and adult education. An opportunity to promote educational services and sell educational products.
Open to the public and will also be attended by many teachers/educators from the area.

Launch of Parallel Lives: Four Seasons in the French Pyrenees

You are warmly invited to the launch of Parallel Lives: Four Seasons in the French Pyrenees, by Jennifer Andrewes.

Launch - Parallel Lives by Jennifer Andrewes

You are warmly invited to the launch of 'Parallel Lives: Four Seasons in the French Pyrenees' by Jennifer Andrewes.

Helen Clark book signing: Women, Equality, Power

Unity Books will be hosting an in-store book signing with Helen Clark
for her new book, “Women, Equality, Power: Selected speeches from a life of leadership”. All welcome.

Writers on Mondays : Feel the Heat with Gigi Fenster and Megan Dunn

Gigi Fenster and Megan Dunn in conversation with Emily Perkins

Ladies' Litera-Tea

An afternoon of women's words, wit & wisdom served with a lavish afternoon tea. Tickets are $65 from The Women's Bookshop, 105 Ponsonby Rd. Buy online or phone +64 9 376 4399

Dante's Heaven, Poetry Reading and Book Launch

NZ poet and writer Janet Riemenschneider-Kemp (formerly known as Jan Kemp), will read poems from her book Dante's Heaven

Iain Sharp at Golden Bay Live Poets

Golden Bay Live Poets presents Iain Sharp at the Mussel Inn. Former editor of Landfall literary magazine, Iain Sharp has published five poetry books and appeared in Essential New Zealand Poems and other anthologies.

The linguistic landscape of English-Spanish Dual Language Picturebooks

How do you place text for two languages in a single bilingual children’s picturebook?

'The 9th Floor' at Te Papa

Join Guyon Espiner and Tim Watkin to mark the publication of 'The 9th Floor: Conversations with five New Zealand Prime Ministers'.

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

postponing... Writers in Schools visits by Michel Mulipola

Auckland-based author Michel Mulipola is visiting schools in the Nelson/Tasman area this week.

Writers in Schools visits by Des Hunt

Coromandel based author Des Hunt is visiting schools in Waikato this week.

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.

Karl Wolfskehl Poetry & Exile: Letters From NZ 1938–1948 - Dr Nelson Wattie

In the final of the L’Dor Va Dor speaker series join Unity Books and Dr Nelson Wattie as he discusses his most recent book 'Karl Wolfskehl. Poetry and Exile - Letters from New Zealand 1938 - 1948' at the Holocaust Centre of New Zealand.

WORD Christchurch Writers & Readers Festival

The largest literary event in the South Island is back for 2018.

The Broken Estate: Journalism in New Zealand

In the age of Trump, fake news and celebrity headlines, it is easy to despair about the future of journalism. Mel Bunce, author of upcoming BWB Text The Broken Estate: Journalism in New Zealand, will discuss the state of journalism in New Zealand and the solutions needed to ensure its future.

Writers on Mondays : The Imaginary Lives of James Pōneke

Tina Makereti in conversation with Lawrence Patchett

Donovan Bixley on Tour

Donovan is hitting the road to promote 'How Māui Fished Up the North Island'. This is your chance to see Donovan in action – he’ll be drawing live, talking about his new book and signing copies.

Island Time with Damon Salesa

What would it mean for New Zealand to act like a Pacific
Island nation?

Lunchtime Event - Chessie Henry 'We Can Make a Life'

Join Unity Books & Victoria University Press as Chessie Henry discusses her new memoir, 'We Can Build a Life: A Memoir of Family, Earthquakes & Courage' with Emily Perkins.

Levi's War

At 6pm, join Julie Thomas for a discussion about her new novel, the final
chapter in the Horowitz trilogy which began with The Keeper of Secrets and Rachel’s Legacy

Writers on Mondays: Best New Zealand Poems

Best New Zealand Poems 2017 for National Poetry Day

Women’s History in the Otago Museum Collection

Join historian Barbara Brookes and Otago Museum curators as they explore the history of New Zealand women in the museum’s collection.

Dear Essayist, I like your style

Are you interested in what's going on in the world of essays? Do you want to try to write an essay or develop it further? If this sounds like you, join Lynn Jenner in this two-day course happening in Waikanae on the Kāpiti Coast.

Lunchtime Event - To the Mountains

Unity Books and Otago University Press invite you to a lunchtime book event with Laurence Fearnley and Paul Hersey, editors of To the Mountains, as they discuss their book with fellow author Shaun Barnett (Tramping: A New Zealand History & Tramping In New Zealand).

Tatau: A History of Sāmoan Tattooing

Join Unity Books Wellington & Te Papa Press for the launch of Tatau: A History of Sāmoan Tattooing by Sean Mallon & Sébastien Galliot.

A Matter of Fact – A Panel Discussion (Wellington)

Jess Berentson-Shaw, author of A Matter of Fact: Talking Truth in a Post-Truth World (BWB Texts 2018), will be joined by Shaun Hendy and Emily Beausoleil to talk about how we can convincingly explain the difference between good information and misinformation, and talk effectively about contentious issues such as immunisation, the gender pay gap and climate change.

Writers on Mondays : Anna Jackson

Pasture and Flock: Anna Jackson

Wāhine Māori: Women Who Moved Us

Wāhine Māori: Women Who Moved Us will bring together Māori historians, curators, archivists and mokopuna for an afternoon of kōrero and waiata, including a live performance by musician Ria Hall, to celebrate the diverse history of mana wahine.

A Matter of Fact – A Panel Discussion (Auckland)

Dr Jess Berentson-Shaw, author of A Matter of Fact: Talking Truth in a Post-Truth World (BWB Texts 2018), will be joined by Professors Shaun Hendy and Jennifer Curtin to explore how we can convincingly explain the difference between good information and misinformation, and talk effectively about contentious issues such as immunisation, the gender pay gap and climate change.

Romance Writers of New Zealand 2018 Conference

'When Love Comes to Town' - the annual conference of romance writers of New Zealand.

Celebrate Children’s Books in Wellington

Unity Books Wellington welcomes you to hear publishers and writers (Gecko Press, Escalator Press, Wardini Books, Gareth Ward...) of titles shortlisted for the New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults discuss what they like about each other’s books.

NZ Book Awards for Children & Young Adults ceremony in Wellington

The winners of the 2018 New Zealand Children & Young Adults Book Awards will be announced at this ceremony.

Writers on Mondays : Poetry Quartet

Writers on Mondays is presented by the International Institute of Modern Letters and The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. These events are open to the public and FREE of charge.

True Stories Told Live: Transformation

Join six Wellington poets for an evening of transformative storytelling.
The NZ Book Council's AGM will begin beforehand at 6pm. All welcome.

New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults - Hamilton

On Wednesday 1 August, Hamilton will host a selection of the finalists of the 2018 New Zealand Awards for Children & Young Adults, ahead of the awards ceremony in Wellington on 8 August. ALL SCHOOL EVENTS ARE FREE TO ATTEND, BUT BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL.

Author Event

Enjoy afternoon tea and listen to award winning author speak about her latest novel The Nam Legacy.

Spoken Word Open Mic Night

Be transported to a world of Spoken Word art and celebrate National Poetry Day at Puke Ariki Library with an Open Mic Night!

Author Event

A chance to meet the author of New Zealand story, The Nam Legacy.

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!

Writers in Schools visits by Jennifer Somervell

Canterbury based author of "Tales from the Farm" books is visiting schools in Taranaki this week.

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.

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

Writers on Mondays: Harry Ricketts

Writers on Mondays is presented by the International Institute of Modern Letters and The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. These events are open to the public and FREE of charge.

Lunchtime Event - See No Evil: NZ's Betrayal of the People of West Papua by Maire Leadbeater

See No Evil issues a challenge to New Zealanders. The book begins by relating the little-known history of West Papua, but its focus is on the impact of New Zealand’s foreign policy on the indigenous Melanesian inhabitants.
In the 1950s New Zealand supported self-determination for the former Dutch colony, but in 1962 opted to back Indonesia as it took over the territory.

Tax Is Love - A Panel Discussion

Economist Shamubeel Eaqub inspired a flurry of think-pieces 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, Terry Baucher and chair David Hall to debate the nature of tax: is it love or is it theft? Come along, hear the discussion, and make up your own mind.

Launch | Is it bedtime yet? by Emily Writes & friends

Come along and celebrate the launch of 'Is it bedtime yet?' by Emily Writes and friends

Writers on Mondays: Kate Duignan and Rajorshi Chakraborti

Writers on Mondays is presented by the International Institute of Modern Letters and The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. These events are open to the public and free of charge.

Women’s History in the Te Papa Collection

Join historian Barbara Brookes and Te Papa curators Katie Cooper and Matariki Williams as they explore the history of New Zealand women through objects and artworks from the museum’s extensive collection.

UK Spoken Word Artist RikTheMost

RikTheMost has performed shows in the UK, Australia, Canada, America and Finland and is currently touring NZ.

A well-known figure on the UK spoken word scene, Rik has won numerous Poetry Slams, including in Melbourne where they qualified to represent Australia in their first ever national slam team at the American National Poetry Slam Finals in Denver last year.

Please note: This Live Poets Special has a $10 entry fee. Get there early to get a seat!

Benjamin Em will open the evening with harmonic percussive guitar. A musician, poet and novelist from the coldest corner of NZ, Benjamin is currently working on his second album.

Fair Borders? Migration: A Panel Discussion (Auckland)

Join us for a panel discussion with BWB Texts Fair Borders? editor David Hall and contributors Andrew Chen, Arama Rata and Evelyn Marsters to discuss how New Zealand’s borders impact on its citizens, on recent immigrants, and on people who aren’t permitted to set foot on this land.

UK Spoken Word Artist RikTheMost

A well-known figure on the UK spoken word scene, Rik has won numerous Poetry Slams, including in Melbourne where they qualified to represent Australia in their first ever national slam team at the American National Poetry Slam Finals in Denver last year. Rik has performed shows in the UK, Australia, Canada, America and Finland and is currently touring NZ.

Book Launch: Tony Williams Goldsmith

You are warmly invited to celebrate the launch of 'Tony Williams Goldsmith'. Published by Tony Williams Gallery in association with Potton & Burton

Author Event: Changing Gears: Ups & Downs on the New Zealand Road by Sequoia Schmidt

Join author, adventurer and entrepreneur Sequoia Schmidt for a presentation of her award-winning book, 'Changing Gears: Ups and Downs on the New Zealand Road'.

Writers on Mondays: The Graphic World of Dylan Horrocks

Writers on Mondays is presented by the International Institute of Modern Letters and The Musuem of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.
These events are open to the public and FREE of charge.

Launch of See No Evil – New Zealand's betrayal of the people of West Papua

See No Evil is a shocking account by one of New Zealand’s most respected authors on peace and Pacific issues, issuing a powerful call for a just and permanent solution – self-determination – for the people of West Papua.

Book Launch | Poūkahangatus & People From The Pit Stand Up

Join Unity Books Wellington & Victoria University Press for the double book launch of two stunning debut poetry collections – Poūkahangatus by Tayi Tibble and People From The Pit Stand Up by Sam Duckor-Jones.

Author Event: Changing Gears: Ups & Downs on the New Zealand Road by Sequoia Schmidt

Join Hawkes Bay-born/US-based author, adventurer and entrepreneur Sequoia Schmidt for a presentation of her award-winning book 'Changing Gears: Ups and Downs on the New Zealand Road'.

Lunchtime Event | Changing Gears by Sequoia Schmidt

Unity Books Wellington warmly welcomes you to hear Sequoia Schmidt talk about her new book,
Changing Gears: Ups and Downs on the New Zealand Road

Author Event: Changing Gears: Ups & Downs on the New Zealand Road by Sequoia Schmidt

Join author, adventurer and entrepreneur Sequoia Schmidt for a presentation from her new award-winning book 'Changing Gears: Ups & Downs on the New Zealand Road'.

Mary McCallum - XYZ of Happiness

XYZ of Happiness, a once in half-century poetry collection by our publisher Mary McCallum will be launched by publishing rangatira Roger Steele, with music by Mary’s band The Brooklyns. All welcome. Free event.

Island Time with Damon Salesa

What would it mean for New Zealand to act like a Pacific Island nation? Damon Salesa explores this question in an energising public lecture, based on the Michael King Memorial Lecture he delivered to a standing-room-only audience at the Auckland Writers Festival in May.

Marlborough Book Festival 2018

The Marlborough Book Festival is an annual festival held to celebrate reading and writing.

Author Event: Changing Gears: Ups & Downs on the New Zealand Road by Sequoia Schmidt

Join author, adventurer and entrepreneur Sequoia Schmidt for a presentation from her new book, the award-winning chronicle of her 28-day solo cycle through New Zealand.

Fishing for Maui Book Launch

Come and celebrate the publication of Fishing for Maui by Isa Pearl Ritchie.

NZ book launch: Changing Gears: Ups & Downs on the New Zealand Road by Sequoia Schmidt

Join author, adventurer and entrepreneur Sequoia Schmidt for the New Zealand launch of her award-winning book, 'Changing Gears: Ups & Downs on the New Zealand Road'.

Kids' Lit Quiz: world final

Kids' Lit Quiz world final

The Mapmakers' Race launch

Gecko Press and The Children’s Bookshop warmly invite you to the launch of The Mapmakers’ Race by Eirlys Hunter.

Lunchtime Author Event: Dame Fiona Kidman

Join authors Dame Fiona Kidman and Redmer Yska in conversation, to mark the publication of Kidman's new novel 'This Mortal Boy'.

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.

100% Kiwi Business book signing

The 100% Kiwi Business book is based on interviews with 100 New Zealand business owners. Learn what’s working for Kiwi business owners, and the questions to ask, to unlock your own professional and personal success.

Fair Borders? Migration: A Panel Discussion

Join us for a panel discussion with BWB Texts 'Fair Borders?' contributors to discuss how New Zealand’s borders impact on its citizens, on recent immigrants, and on people who aren’t permitted to set foot on this land.

Friends of Turnbull Library Founder Centenary Lecture

Professor Lydia Wevers ONZM will be this year's speaker for the annual Friends of the Turnbull Library Founder Lecture.

ADLIB - Puke Ariki Library Festival

Puke Ariki is going all out with a tightly packed festival, super squished with fun. Celebrate the winter solstice in style with us!
Programme out now! http://adlib.pukeariki.com

Lunchtime Event | Scoundrels & Eccentrics of the Pacific

Come and hear John Dunmore, author of Scoundrels & Eccentrics of the Pacific, in conversation with Lydia Wevers.

Kids' Lit Quiz: NZ final

Kids' Lit Quiz New Zealand final

Shortlist announced for NZ Book Awards for Children & Young Adults

The finalists in the 2018 New Zealand Book Awards for Children & Young Adults are announced.

She's back....the sequel to Kate and Caboodle is here

Jerri J. Pirc, author, and Jane C. Smith, illustrator, have again collaborated for a sequel. Kate and Caboodle In a splendidly blended tale is now available.

She's back....the sequel to Kate and Caboodle is here

Jerri J. Pirc, author, and Jane C. Smith, illustrator, have again collaborated for a sequel. Kate and Caboodle In a splendidly blended tale is now available.

"The Big Show": Messines 1917

The week of the centenary of the Battle of Messines, Award winning Birkdale author Matt Elliott will present an assortment of eye-witness accounts, poems, paintings and photographs of the 1917 attack on Messines ridge.

Author Talk: Steve Braunias

Te Atatu Library is hosting local journalist and author Steve Braunias, to talk about his latest book “The Man Who Ate Lincoln Road”.

Breaking Ground

Two public and free Rehearsed Readings and one Artist Panel om Wellington, showcasing the work of creative natives from Australia, Hawai’i, New Zealand and the Pacific – all are welcome to attend and enjoy these free public events.

Jeremy Scott Author Talk

Meet author Jeremy Scott and hear his inspirational talk about his epic 52,000 kms bicycle ride from London to Auckland to raise money for the Heart Foundation, all because of a hole in his heart.

Murder in the Library - Queenstown

The Ngaio Marsh Awards, in association with the New Zealand Book Council and Queenstown Lakes District Libraries, invites booklovers to an event featuring two talented local writers.

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

Winter Eyes Poetry Reading

A poetry reading to celebrate the release of Winter Eyes by Harry Ricketts.

The Expatriates – Martin Edmond in conversation with Jane Parkin

Martin Edmond will read from The Expatriates at Wellington City Gallery, 6pm Monday 28 May. Following the reading, Martin Edmond and editor Jane Parkin will discuss the multiple worlds of ‘home’ and ‘away’ explored in The Expatriates.

Turning the Page: NZSA Auckland Branch AGM workshops

The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa is holding its AGM in Auckland this year, Saturday May 26 10am. The Auckland Branch is hosting this year and has prepared a series of workshops on various aspects of the writing craft for the afternoon.

Blue Dragon Book Fair

The annual Blue Dragon Book Fair is a very popular fundraising event for the Blue Dragon Children's Centre in Vietnam to support its work in providing education and training for kids in crisis in Vietnam.

Alex Ross with Bianca Andrew & STROMA

Literature and music come together in this unique concert.

Sia Figiel's FREELOVE Book Launch

Celebrate the NZ launch of Freelove (2018 revised edition) with award winning author, Sia Figiel.

Bob Dylan's Birthday Open Mic with Monty Bevins at Golden Bay Live Poets

Golden Bay Live Poets is celebrating Bob Dylan's birthday at the Mussel Inn with the help of Nelson musician Monty Bevins.

Deadline for National Poetry Day event registration/seeding funding applications

Final day to submit for funding or to register to hold your own Phantom Billstickers Poetry Day event. Last year’s packed programme featured nearly 120 dynamic events, workshops and competitions, featuring acclaimed poets, new voices, young writers, and poetry enthusiasts.

Book Night 2018

A fun nationwide reading event for people of all ages

OneTree House celebration

OneTree House launched in 2017 as a new children's publisher in New Zealand, and has a programme of 43 titles for 2018.
In March they won the BOP Bologna Prize for Best Children's Publisher - Oceania. This event celebrates that success and toasts the first 9 books released and all 2018 inaugural authors.

Awards Ceremony for the inaugural Michael Gifkins Prize for an Unpublished Novel

The Michael Gifkins Prize for an Unpublished Novel was made possible by generous sponsorship from Ann Hatherly and Andre Gifkins, partner and son of the late Michael Gifkins, and Text Publishing. It pays tribute to the support and encouragement Michael Gifkins gave to New Zealand writers throughout his career. The award gives the winning author a $10,000 advance and a publishing contract. The competition is open to previously published authors and new writers who are New Zealand citizens or permanent residents, and is administered by the New Zealand Society of Authors (PEN NZ Inc).

Out of almost 200 entries, three outstanding manuscripts have been chosen for the 2018 shortlist:
When Curlews Call by H. E. Crampton (Cairns and Nelson)
Caught Between by Jeannie McLean (Auckland)
Slaughter Weight by Ruby Porter (Auckland
This event, held as part of the Auckland Writers Festival, announces the winner.

Burn Notice: A workshop with Terese Svoboda

Good political poems are nearly as hard to write as a love poem, but passion fuels them both. Join Terese Svoboda in this one-day workshop as part of her visit to Aotearoa.

Nelson Live Poets

The next Nelson Live Poets session will take place on Tuesday May 15th at The On Inn, 335 Trafalgar Square East, at 7 30pm. Bring a poem to share or just enjoy the show. Singer songwriters are also welcome. To take part, simply sign up on the night. Koha entry.

2018 Ockham New Zealand Book Awards ceremony

A glittering ceremony to honour the finalists and announce the winners of the 2018 Ockham New Zealand Book Awards.

Auckland Writers Festival 2018

Every year AWF stage over 180 public events, gathering together 200 of the world’s best writers and thinkers with over 28,000 Festival goers and up to 6,000 young people to celebrate the world of books and ideas.

Book Launch for Go Girl: A Storybook of Epic NZ Women by Barbara Else

Dunedin Writers & Readers Festival invites you to the launch of
Go Girl: A Storybook of Epic NZ Women by Barbara Else

4th Annual Featherston Booktown 11-13 May

A Book Town is a small rural town or village, close to major cities, in which second-hand and antiquarian bookshops are concentrated. Most Book Towns have developed in villages of historic interest or of scenic beauty. Their residents set up events around books - selling them, writing, reading, illustrating, printing, making and publishing them.

Creative Conversations

Poet Therese Lloyd presenting her new book, The Facts, and art critic Anthony Byrt in conversation with gallery director Scott Lawrie

Plant the Seed creative writing retreat with Dr Jesse Blackadder

A creative writing retreat from 11-14 May 2018 with award-winning Australian novelist Jesse Blackadder focused on transforming the essence of a fact (whether it be something in your own life, or a moment in history) into a compelling narrative.

Launch - Kate Duignan 'The New Ships'

Join Unity Books & Victoria University Press for the launch of Kate Duignan's new novel 'The New Ships'.

An Evening With Sia Figiel

Join internationally acclaimed Samoan writer Sia Figiel for a reading from her long awaited new novel Freelove, followed by questions and book signing.

Inside.Out Open Mic for Writers

Inside.Out Open Mic (est. 2012) is a popular monthly event where writers can read their work - poetry, flash, fiction, short story, creative non-fiction, performance poetry etc- at the open mic for up to 5 or 6 mins. There are excellent music guests each time, and word challenges with randomly-awarded chocolate bars and books. Simply add your name to the open mic sheet when you arrive. Everyone is welcome, to read or as audience.

5-day Workshop with Gavin Bishop

An exceptional opportunity for an in-depth workshop with one of NZ's most successful children's authors.
All details at www.creativematakana.nz

Create Your Book Workshop for children!

A fun, crafty activity children will love. Free event. Booking recommended.
Register at: info@spiespublishing.co.nz

Writing Garlands of Stories

In this workshop with acclaimed Samoan writer Sia Figiel, the physical and metaphysical merge as the ancient Samoan concept of su’ifefiloi, or sewing of garlands is used to bridge oral storytelling to the act of creative writing.

Lunchtime Event - Dear Oliver by Peter Wells

Peter Wells discusses 'Dear Oliver' with Unity Books manager Tilly Lloyd

Book Launch: 'Marlborough Man' by Alan Carter

Come meet award winning writer Alan Carter at Volume Books in Nelson.

Pieces of You - Book Launch

Auckland book launch and celebration of 'Pieces of You', the debut novel by Eileen Merriman.

Three Days in the Country

Three Days in the Country is set on a beautiful Russian country estate where the arrival of a handsome new tutor brings reckless, romantic desire to an eccentric household.

Based on Ivan Turgenev’s passionate, moving comedy, A Month in the Country which has been a source of inspiration for TV, films, a ballet, and the plays of Chekhov. Patrick Marbers interpretation is a witty and elegant update on this Russian classic.

Over three adventure-filled summer days, this new arrival bestows lessons in love for young and old alike: first love and forbidden love, ridiculous love, maternal love, platonic love, the love left unsaid… and the love which must win out!

Zeustian Logic Launch at Space Place

"Zeustian Logic", by Sabrina Malcolm, will be launched at Space Place, with a lights show of the constellations featured in the book, an educational tour, and miscellaneous spacey activities...

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'.

Golden Bay Live Poets presents a tribute to Gordon Challis

Golden Bay Live Poets honours Gordon Challis who passed away this year on March 3rd.

Sam Hunt acknowledges him as a major influence; Bill Manhire included his poem ‘Walking An Imaginary Dog’ in The Best of Best New Zealand Poems; and Robert Bly commends his Spanish translation work.

His poetry has been featured in the NZ Listener, Landfall, the Times Literary Supplement and the Manchester Guardian, among others, as well as being included in many anthologies.

Join us to launch Gordon's last Spanish translation collection of poetry.

Launch | No One Home by Keith Westwater

Join Unity Books & Makaro Press for the launch of
NO ONE HOME: A BOYHOOD MEMOIR IN LETTERS AND POEMS
by Keith Westwater

Southland Arts Festival 2018

Based in Invercargill, the Southland Arts Festival is a month-long celebration of the very best in arts and culture.

Launch | Realising the Potential of Driverless Vehicles by Michael Cameron

Join Unity Books Wellington for the launch of
REALISING THE POTENTIAL OF DRIVERLESS VEHICLES:
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR LAW REFORMS
by Michael Cameron

Launch - Song for Rosaleen by Pip Desmond

Hastings War Memorial Library and Massey University Press invite you to the launch of Song for Rosaleen: Losing and finding a mother in dementia

Launch | Plundering Beauty: A History of Art Crime During War by Arthur Tompkins | In-store Tuesday 17th April, 6-7:30pm

Plundering Beauty: A History of Art Crime During War charts the crucial milestones of art crimes spanning two thousand years.

Our Creative Future – How bright does it look?

Tom Hill (Copyright Licensing NZ) gives the rundown on "Our Creative Future – How bright does it look?", following NZ Society of Authors Wellington Branch AGM for 2018.

Make Her Praises Heard Afar: New Zealand women overseas in World War One

Join author Jane Tolerton for a talk on her latest book Make Her Praises Heard Afar about the women (doctors, nurses and volunteers) who cared for soldiers in 1915 in Egypt and Malta, and those who worked with the New Zealand War Contingent Association in Britain.

Launch - Song for Rosaleen by Pip Desmond

Unity Books Wellington & Massey University Press warmly invite you to the launch of 'Song for Rosaleen' by Pip Desmond.

Launch - Nicky Pellegrino 'A Year at Hotel Gondola'

Join Unity Books Wellington & Hachette NZ for the launch of Nicky Pellegrino's new book 'A Year at Hotel Gondola'.

Dance & Write: A workshop with Ingrid Kolle

In this workshop we will let movement free our bodies and words dance on the page. You will learn practical and magical ways to inspire your writing and hone your dance.

Murder in the Library

The Ngaio Marsh Awards, in association with the New Zealand Book Council and Hutt City Libraries, invites booklovers to an event featuring four talented and acclaimed Wellington writers.

2018 Ngaio Marsh Awards entrants Annaleese Jochems, Jennifer Lane, and Kirsten McDougall will discuss how they create memorable characters, craft page-turning plotlines, and infuse their exciting storytelling with real-life issues. Ockham Awards shortlisted author Brannavan Gnanalingam will prosecute the offenders.

Stretch Yourself Writers' Retreat

Have you always loved writing but want to take it to the next level? This creative writing retreat for beginners will help you tune in - with mind, body and heart - to the source of your creative inspiration and practise some fundamental craft skills. You will get the space and support to create a new piece of work in the form of your choice - fiction, narrative non-fiction or poetry - or polish an existing small project (up to 1,000 words) .

Murder in the Library

The Ngaio Marsh Awards, in association with the New Zealand Book Council and Hutt City Libraries, invites booklovers to an event featuring four talented and acclaimed Wellington writers.

2018 Ngaio Marsh Awards entrants Annaleese Jochems, Jennifer Lane, and Kirsten McDougall will discuss how they create memorable characters, craft page-turning plotlines, and infuse their exciting storytelling with real-life issues. Ockham Awards shortlisted author Brannavan Gnanalingam will prosecute the offenders.

Launch | Towards Democratic Renewal by Geoffrey Palmer & Andrew Butler and In Search of Consensus by Elizabeth McLeay

Victoria University Press warmly invites you to the launch of two important new books 'Towards Democratic Renewal' by Geoffrey Palmer and Andrew Butler and 'In Search of Consensus' by Elizabeth McLeay.

Appetites readers' and writers' evening at Brooklyn Primary School, Wgtn

Brooklyn Primary School's Readers and Writers event Appetites; an entertaining evening featuring local authors talking about their passions and their writing. The Appetites theme is not restricted to food; it could be the author’s hunger for life, poetry, disruptive characters or whatever they choose to speak about.

Poetry in Motion Wellington feat. Ben Fagan - 'Some Traveller' Book Launch

Fresh off his first tour of the UK, performance poet Ben Fagan is launching his new book 'Some Traveller' at Poetry in Motion's April event.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Launch - A Way With Words by Chris Maclean

Whitcombe Press & Unity Books warmly invite you to the launch of 'A Way with Words: A Memoir of Writing & Publishing in New Zealand' by Chris Maclean.

Lunchtime Launch - The Vanishing Act by Jen Shieff

Unity Books warmly invites you to the lunchtime launch of The Vanishing Act by Jen Shieff

Launch - Pursuing Peace in Godzone: Christianity & the Peace Tradition in NZ

Join Unity Books Wellington & Victoria University Press for the launch of 'Pursuing Peace in Godzone: Christianity and the Peace Tradition in New Zealand ' edited by Geoffrey Troughton & Philip Fountain.

Launch - So Many Islands

Join Unity Books Wellington & Little Island Press for the launch of 'So Many Islands: Stories from the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Indian & Pacific Oceans' edited by Nicholas Laughlin & Nailah Folami Imoja

So Many Islands Book Launch

Join Unity Books Wellington & Little Island Press Ltd for the launch of 'So Many Islands: Stories from the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Indian & Pacific Oceans' edited by Nicholas Laughlin & Nailah Folami Imoja.

Meet New Zealand Book Awards winner Karlo Mila, poet Mere Taito and Commonwealth Writers Prize winner Sia Figiel.

WOMAD World of Words

The World of Words is a site-wide programme at WOMAD created to provoke thought and encourage people to learn, listen, and participate.

Storylines National Festival Story Tour presents How To Encourage Children to Be More Engaged Readers

As part of the Storylines Story Tour that is coming to Canterbury, Zac McCullum is hosting a special night event aimed at parents, teachers and librarians. Fantastic authors Maria Gill, James Russell, Anne Kayes and James Norcliffe will be on a panel discussing how we can encourage children to be more engaged readers.

The event is Wednesday 14 March, from 7-8pm , Halswell School Library at Halswell School in Christchurch.

Launch of Walking to Jutland Street, poems by Michael Steven

Otago University Press and the Dunedin Fringe Festival 2018 invite you to celebrate the launch of Walking to Jutland Street, a debut poetry collection by Michael Steven.
Please RSVP by Thursday 8 March to publicity@otago.ac.nz

Writers & Readers 2018

Get up close and intimate with local and international stars for four days of fast-tracked, smart conversation from some of the world's best thinkers and talkers.

Smart Alex: Creative writing competition for secondary school students

The Friends of the Turnbull Library (FoTL) have launched an exciting creative writing competition open to all secondary school students in New Zealand and the South Pacific.
The aim is to celebrate the centenary of Alexander Turnbull and his remarkable legacy.
Entry is free and there is more than $2,000 in prize money.
Visit the FoTL website at http://www.turnbullfriends.org.nz/schools-competition for more details and the competition entry form.

Poet vs Pageant

What will happen when an awkward outsider dives head first into the perilous seas of a beauty pageant? Miss Congeniality meets Roald Dahl in this amazing adventure full of blood, sweat and tans. Come and get swept away.
Winner – Best Writing, Melbourne Fringe
Winner - L'Apres Fringe Award, Montreal Fringe
Nominee - Best English Production, Montreal Fringe

Ockham New Zealand Book Awards 2018 shortlist announced

Forty books have been selected for the 2018 longlist in the categories of fiction, illustrated non-fiction, general non-fiction, and poetry. Who will make the shortlist?

Rants in the Dark by Emily Writers

Popular blogger Emily Writes gives words of encouragement to sleep-deprived parents everywhere.

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.

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

Launch - Tane’s War by Brendaniel Weir

Cloud Ink Press and Unity Books warmly welcome you to the launch of Tane’s War by Brendaniel Weir

True (Publishing) Stories

A panel of Wellington writers tell short, sharp, true stories of how they got published.

The 2018 Kāpiti Writers' Retreat

The 2018 Kāpiti Writers’ Retreat
23-25 February 2017
Kāpiti Coast, New Zealand

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, lively afternoon discussions led by six established New Zealand writers–Airini Beautrais, Anahera Gildea, Pip Adam, Rajorshi Chakraborti, Queenie Rikihana-Hyland and Victor Rodger. You'll find space to write, relax and engage with topics critical to your work. Find out more here: http://www.kahini.org/the-2018-kapiti-writers-retreat/

Launch - After Alexander: The Legacy of a Son by Jan Pryor

Unity Books warmly invites you to the launch of 'After Alexander: Legacy of a Son' by Jan Pryor.

Meet author Emma Stevens

NZ author Emma Stevens will talk about her amazing life and adventures in remote "bush Alaska".

He Whakaputanga/The Declaration on Independence: A Panel Discussion

In this conversation, Dame Claudia Orange and Morgan Godfery will discuss He Whakaputanga and Te Tiriti o Waitangi with chair Carwyn Jones. Speaking to the history of these documents over nearly two centuries, the panel will also reflect on their significance in twenty-first century New Zealand.

Launch of Social Investment: A New Zealand Policy Experiment

You are warmly invited to join us to celebrate the launch of Social Investment: A New Zealand Policy Experiment, edited by Jonathan Boston and Derek Gill.

Golden Bay Live Poets presents UK spoken word artist RikTheMost

Internationally touring spoken word artist RikTheMost will perform at the Mussel Inn in Golden Bay. He has performed shows in the UK, Australia, Canada, America and Finland and won numerous Poetry Slams. Local harmonic percussive guitarist Benjamin Embers will open the evening at 8pm.

Library Lovers' Day

Library Lovers' Day is an occasion to celebrate libraries and librarians.

Same Same But Different

Taking place as part of the 2018 Auckland Pride Festival, New Zealand's LGBTI Writers' Festival is returning for 2018.

Book Launch: Tinderbox by Megan Dunn

Please join us for the Wellington launch of Tinderbox by Megan Dunn, published by Galley Beggar Press. The event will take place in the City Gallery Shop (entry via Nikau courtyard). Megan will give a short reading, and there will be drinks.

Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival 2018

A festival featuring exciting events from across all Arts genres.

Seven Spectacular Scribes - Meow Bar

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

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.

Summer Writing School for Teenagers

The School for Young Writers offer another week of writing workshops and 1:1 mentoring for teenagers. Details at https://youngwritersnz.wordpress.com/

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.

Golden Bay Live Poets celebrates 25 years of The Mussel Inn

Mark Raffills presents The War Prayer Concert at the Mussel Inn on 12 December 2017.

The War Prayer Concert

Mark Raffills presents The War Prayer Concert at the Mussel Inn on 12 December 2017.

Author Signing | Al Brown

Join Al Brown as he signs copies of his book 'Eat Up New Zealand'!

Author Signing: Daniel Falconcer author of 'Middle Earth: From Script to Screen'

For the first time ever, the epic, in-depth story of the creation of one of the most famous fantasy worlds ever imagined, a richly illustrated compendium that reveals the breathtaking craftsmanship, artistry, and technology behind the magical Middle-earth of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Motion Picture Trilogies, directed by Peter Jackson.

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.

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.

Wham Bam Author Jam

An event for readers to discover the wonderful talent we have here in our very own backyard. With over 30 authors coming from around New Zealand and Australia, there's something for everyone!

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.

NZ Book Festival 2018

The NZ Book Festival is an annual event for independently published New Zealand authors to come together and share their books with readers and meet other authors and publishing industry professionals.

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.”

LitCrawl Wellington 2018

Since 2014, LitCrawl has taken place with the aim of taking literature to the streets of Wellington and celebrating emerging and established literary voices.

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.

Creative Cities Southern Hui

Ōtepoti He Puna Auaha, UNESCO City of Literature warmly invites you to the Creative Cities Southern Hui – an invigorating assemblage of local and global creative minds.

https://www.cityofliterature.co.nz/creative-cities-southern-hui/

Carry on Writing Memoir

Carry on Writing Memoir is an intensive two day workshop with writer and teacher Lynn Jenner.

Launch - A Colonial Naturalist by Pamela Hyde

Join Unity Books for the launch of 'A Colonial Naturalist: Henry Suter’s Life of Discovery & Hardship in New Zealand' by Pamela Hyde.

Launch - Floating Islanders: Pasifika Theatre in Aotearoa

Join Unity Books & Otago University Press for the launch of 'Floating Islanders: Pasifika Theatre in Aotearoa' by Lisa Warrington & David O’Donnell.

Banned Poetry Uncensored

Kevin Moran, author of Alchemical Psalms and banned poet from letters to the editor columns, celebrates banned poetry uncensored.

From children's poetry like Shel Silverstein's 'A Light In The Attic' to the works of Shakespeare, for as long as there have been writers, there have been texts that have been challenged, censored, burned, and banned.

Everyone is welcome to attend or participate.

Lunchtime Event - The Journal of Urgent Writing Vol.2 (2017)

Editor Simon Wilson in discussion with Wellington based contributors Jessica Berentson-Shaw, Jo Randerson, Sarah Laing & Mamari Stephens.

Chris Sanders public performance and talk

Browns Bay based author-songwriter Chris Sanders will be performing and talking about the inspiration behind his breakaway Children's hit "Angel Star".

After the Cyclone

The launch of New Zealand Poetry Society’s 2017 competition anthology.

Shaky Places

A song cycle merged with poems of Aotearoa.

NZ Book Festival

The NZ Book Festival is an annual event for independently published New Zealand authors who come together and share their books with readers.

NZ Poetry Conference & Festival - Auckland 2017

Auckland is the host for the NZ Poetry Conference & Festival 2017. Based at the city's freshest community hub the Ellen Melville Centre's Pioneer Women's Hall, the three-day conference is packed with six features, five themed reading sessions, four korero panels, six workshops and enough whanau reading opportunities for all. Witness more than fifty leading poets from Tamaki Makaurau and across Aotearoa read their new works and discuss what poetry means to them, what spurs them to write and how they broadcast their work in the digital age.

NZ Poetry Conference & Festival - Auckland 2017

Join scores of award-winning poets from Tamaki Makaurau and from across Aotearoa from Dunedin to the Coromandel, Napier to Whangarei who are reading their work or speaking in korero sessions at the NZ Poetry Conference in Auckland 10 – 12 November., at the Ellen Melville Centre. This conference follows on from the successful 2015 Wellington Poetry Conference, and the inaugural Havelock North korerorero in 2013.

LitCrawl 2017

The renowned crawl will be held on Saturday 11 November and will have more events than ever before!

Lunchtime Event - Catherine Chidgey discusses her new book with Tracey Slaughter

Catherine Chidgey will be discussing her brand new found novel
'The Beat of the Pendulum', with short fiction writer Tracey Slaughter.

Book Launch: Night Watchers by Grant Sheehan

Phantom House Books & Unity Books are please to invite you to the launch of Grant Sheehan's latest photographic book.

Book Launch: Dark Forest Deep Sea by Richard Hall

Join Mākaro Press & Unity Books for the launch of 'Dark Forest Deep Sea: Reflections of a Hunter' by Richard Hall.

Nation Dates 3rd Ed. by Wendy McGuinness

Nation Dates is a book founded on our belief that, to understand where we are heading, we need to know where we have been.

NZ Book Council Lecture: Owen Marshall

How does the short story measure up to the novel in New Zealand literary circles?

Why go to war? Was it good policy for New Zealand to go to war in 1914, 1939 and 1941?

Public lecture and launch by Stevan Eldred-Grigg, author of Phoney Wars: New Zealand Society in the Second World War

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.

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.

Hawke's Bay Readers & Writers Festival

A series of events with writers presenting, reading and discussing their work with Hawkes Bay readers, designed to inform, entertain and inspire.

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.

Hawke's Bay Arts Festival 2018

The Hawke's Bay Arts Festival features events from across a wide range of artistic disciplines.

Author Talk/Book Signing: The World Beyond the Stairs: Mary's Journey by J.T. Grainger

United States author J.T. Grainger will sign and discuss his new fantasy fiction series, "The World Beyond the Stairs: Mary's Journey". Event is free and being held at Time Out Bookstore. All ages welcome. Refreshments provided.

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.

Find Your Way Forward creative writing retreat 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.

Writers on Mondays : The Next Page 2

Creative writing students read their work in progress (2)

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.

HOW NOT TO STOP A KIDNAP PLOT Book Launch

Launch of Suzanne Main's sequel to her award-winning children's novel, How I Alienated My Grandma.

NZ Bookshop Day at Unity Books Wellington

Here’s to you, you good localists! Call in on Saturday 28th October and go in the draw to win a local book of your choice.
Visit at 11am to see Tom Scott as well!

The Whimsy Primsy Collection Book Launch

Jen Gibbs will be launching her collection of three Whimsy Primsy books.

NZ Bookshop Day Xmas shopping trip

Readers taking a train trip together to Upper Hutt to buy truly uniquel Christmas presents in a special little book shop that stocks only Kiwi authors.

Seraph Press book launch

The launch of two exciting new chapbooks with a French connection.

Golden Bay Live Poets presents Elizabeth Smither

Golden Bay Live Poets presents first woman Te Mata Poet Laureate Elizabeth Smither, winner of the New Zealand Book Award for Poetry, the Montana New Zealand Book Award for Poetry, the Prime Minister’s Award for Literary Achievement and the Sarah Broom Poetry Prize, New Zealand’s most valuable poetry award.

Remembering Dave Gallaher: All Black & Soldier

Award winning Auckland author Matt Elliott will be talking about Dave Gallaher the original All Black Captain and one of our War Blacks.

Ramble On

Ramble On: a celebration of walking, health and the outdoors. Book launch with artist Z. R. Southcombe and special guests.

Book launch: My wide white bed by Trish Harris

Come celebrate the launch of this beautiful collection of poetry by Trish Harris, where hope and humour are never far away.

Explorer, Extraordinary: Journaling to Support Creative Process

Explorer, extraordinary is a workshop taught by Palmerston North writer and teacher, Helen Lehndorf on how journalling can support your creative process. Limited spaces. Find out more: http://kahini.org/explorer/

Stories from e-Tangata at the National Library, Wellington

The online Sunday magazine e-Tangata tells Māori and Pasifika stories about people and issues of significance to all New Zealanders.