Calendar of Events
Scroll on down to explore the vivid, fabulous selection of events that took place on National Poetry Day 2023! There were workshops, poetry walks, slams, beach events, musical evenings, book launches, poets in conversation, poetry with art, and much more! This was our 26th year. Rock on the 27th!
Quick Menu: Regions
International | Nationwide | Northland | Auckland Region | Waikato/Coromandel | Bay of Plenty/Rotorua | Gisborne/Hawke’s Bay Region | Taranaki | Manawatū/Whanganui | Wellington/Kapiti Coast | Nelson Region | Canterbury | West Coast | Otago
Welcome to the National Calendar of Events 2023!
INTERNATIONAL
Poetry While You Wait International - Raewyn Alexander BIC
Kia ora - chat re the poem you'd like, then... soon a PDF file is sent to you. Excellent poetry is posted online, plus beautifully on video if you wish. Ask international writer Raewyn Alexander for a lyric, a haiku, or an acrostic poem, while you wait, on any subject; communicate by email, or facebook message, or video call. Engaging for any age, Raewyn has entertained with various poetry worldwide for decades, and is internationally published. See more on Read NZ.
Entry details: FREE thanks to our sponsors Phantom Billstickers – on facebook or by email on request. All ages in any country and illustrated for children if you wish.
Date and times: All day, New Zealand time! 9am to 9pm - 25th August 2023.
Location: International and based in Tāmaki Auckland Aotearoa New Zealand
Contact: Raewyn Alexander on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/events/608952274713340/?active_tab=discussion
or raewynalexandergood@gmail.com
Further info: Facebook event - Phantom Billstickers Poetry While You Wait 2023. Hei konei ra.
Otago University Press National Poetry Day Readings 2023
Join us to celebrate National Poetry Day with our annual poetry reading series! Every year we put together a video series of our poets reading from their collections to be shared online for everyone to enjoy in the lead-up to National Poetry Day. This year we are treated to readings from our poets with new collections out in 2023: James Norcliffe, David Eggleton, Diana Bridge, Megan Kitching, Robyn Maree Pickens and Rushi Vyas.
Date/Times: A new video every day at 11am on Facebook and Instagram (20th- 25th August 2023)
Contact: Meg Hamilton (publicist) publicity@otago.ac.nz
Further Info:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OtagoUniversityPress
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/otagounipress/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@otagouniversitypress2607
Late Nite Lit: Poet's Corner Video Release
Late at night is when poets come to life and are at their best. Now you can re-live some of the best poets and poetry in Aotearoa NZ – Poet Laureate Chris Tse, Sam Duckor-Jones, Frankie Leota, Rachel Buchanan and Debbie Broughton captured during their performance at Featherston Booktown Karukatea Festival in May this year.
On National Poetry Day, the video of this event will be released on Featherston Booktown’s YouTube and social media channels. The audio of the event will also be featured on the Featherston Booktown Podcast.
Further info: Facebook Event link:https://fb.me/e/xcNfiOMK
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@featherstonbooktown8150/featured
Podcast :https://www.buzzsprout.com/2172196
AotearoaNZ Phantom National Poetry Day in Berlin 2023
Celebrating Aotearoa New Zealand's Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day with an evening of poetry, music and friendship. The weather gods are fickle – if raining we'll transfer into the apartment.
To respect nature & neighbours starting 19:30 sharp & finishing by 22:00. Door open from 19:00. Once we start entry won't be possible as the building's street door will be closed.
Bring Aotearoa New Zealand poetry to share, spirit, cheer, wine & beer (see what we did here?)
According to tradition, there shall be biscuits! With: Sandra Sarala, Takumi Motokawa and YOU
Entry Details: KOHA.
Date/Times: Friday 25 August 2023. Door 19:00 for 19:30 sharp start till 22:00
Location: Private Hofgarden, Heinrich-Roller-Straße 22, 10405 Berlin, Germany
Contact: Sandra Sarala sandrasarala@yahoo.com
Further Info: AotearoaNZ Phantom National Poetry Day in Berlin 2023 |
NATIONWIDE
Seven Days of Walking
Wake up to a txt poem or provocation inspiring you to go for a walk or get a reminder in your pocket at morning tea to go out and experience the world.
Seven Days of Walking delivers a micro poem or walking prompt to your phone each day for seven days, taking you on a journey of discovery. One that starts where you are when you receive the sms.
Five writers – Amber Esau, Mustaq Missouri, Jaq Tweedie, Courtney Sina Meredith and Michael Steven – have each created a week-long walking experience for you. All you need to do is sign up and, when you get your sms, go for a walk.
Entry Details: Select a poet and register your mobile number at https://urbanwalking.nz/sevendays by 9pm Thursday 24 August. You will receive your first sms on 25 August.
Date/Times::
Dawn transitions – Amber Esau. (Poems arrive 15 minute before dawn. Dawn is at 6:52 am on 25 August)
7am Rising – Mustaq Missouri
10am Break – Jaq Tweedie (poem series begins Monday 28 August)
2:30pm Refresher – Courtney Sina Meredith
All day dérive – Michael Steven (poems arrive at variable times)
Location: From your front door
Contact: Melissa Laing, info@urbanwalking.nz
Further Info: https://urbanwalking.nz/sevendays
Poetry arrived in search of me: Write On Young Writers Online
The Write On team works with hundreds of young poets each year. Our tutor, Gail Ingram, has selected some poems that have stood out from 2023 workshops so far and we have curated them online in time for National Poetry Day. Featuring young poets from ages 6 to 18.
“And it was at that age ... Poetry arrived in search of me.” Pablo Neruda
Entry Details: Free access
Date/Times: Live Online on August 25th
Location: https://www.schoolforyoungwriters.org/blog
Contact: Heather McQuillan
Further Info: Event: https://www.facebook.com/schoolforyoungwriters/
The Poetrybrick
Each year poet David Merritt will laboriously hand stamp a few hundred banana box book covers, and then glue inside each one of them an A3-sized poem, folded-up.
Poet assembles “bricks” of 17 different poems and puts them into an appropriate box along with curator notes.Poet then sends #poetrybricks out to 13 different locations around the country. There the poems are available to be read by anyone, at their own leisure, at no cost.
Entry Details: Generally office hours for the #poetrybrick are 10am till 4 or 5pm. Each event has a local organiser / curator.
Locations: August 25th:
Hanger Gallery - 14 Cross St Whangarei
the open book + search and destroy 80 Ponsonby Road, Auckland
Greatest Friend 112 Ocean View Rd, Oneroa Village, Waiheke
Snails Artist Run Space - Palmerston North
Raw Balance Cafe Turangi
eighty-eight cafe, 88 Putiki Drive Whanganui
Firebird Cafe - 58 Oxford St, Levin
Common Ground - Main Street, Featherston
National Library Bookshop - Aitken St, Wellington
Black Coffee - 133 Riddeford St, Newtown
Lyttelton Coffee Co - 29 London street Lyttelton
The Grainstore Gallery - Harbour St, Oamaru.
Yours + western Values Catalog Octagon Dunedin
Maggies Cafe - 46 lower Stuart Street Dunedin
Wanaka Wastebusters - Ballantyne Road and Riverbank Road, Wanaka
Contact: David Merritt - lrfpress@gmail.com
Further Info: https://instagram.com/dm807169/ https://instagram.com/poetrybrick/
https://discord.com/channels/922571951124394074/1088416732609249402 is a Discord channel for co-ordinating local event organisers and media enquiries. https://discord.gg/7evswgxsuT is an invite link. Hashtags David uses are: #NZpoetryday, #poetrybrick, #poetryinabox, #landroverfarmpress #nzpd, #dm807169
Northland
Whangārei
Let's Talk Poetry: Northland Forum Discussion & Poetry Share event
Creative Northland is inspiring local poetry lovers to celebrate National Poetry Day. Join us to talk with two Northland poets to celebrate, share & discuss poetry in Northland. Covering key questions about how poetry has transformed over the years and what the future of poetry looks like in the region. Come and meet other poet enthusiasts from all walks of life and ages with the focus on bringing your favourite poem to share/read out or perform.
Let’s Talk Poetry is a free community event, providing an opportunity to get inspired by poetry and reconnect through this creative writing practice.
Entry Details: Free. Open to all ages. Please RSVP by emailing: Kiaora@creativenorthland.com
Date/Times: 25 August, 4pm – 6pm
Location: May Bain Room, Whangārei District Library, 5 Rust Avenue, Whangārei 0110
Contact: kiaora@creativenorthland.com
Further Info: https://www.creativenorthland.com/
FAST FIBRES POETRY 10 Launch
Celebrate ten years of poetry with the launch of Fast Fibres Poetry 10, Northland’s very own poetry anthology. Be enthralled for a few hours with diverse and interesting new poetry from some of the our best poets including Piet Nieuwland, Arthur Fairley, Olivia Macassey, June Pitman, Kathy Arlidge, John Geraets and many other talented language-artists.
Entry Details: Free
Date/Times: Thursday 17 August, 5pm to 7.30pm
Location: ONEONESIX, 116 Bank Street, Whangārei
Contact: pietn@outlook.com
Auckland Region
North Auckland
North Shore
Central Auckland
West Auckland
South Auckland
East Auckland
North Auckland
Hibiscus Coast Poetry at the Pub
The usual fun mix of poetry reading (your own or someone else’s), and assorted poetry fun and prizes, or just come and enjoy.
Coffee, wine, meals and bar food all available.
Koha to contribute to prizes and expenses is appreciated.
Entry Details: Koha, all welcome
Date/Times:Thursday, 24th August 2023,7.15–9.15pm
Location: Sugarloaf Bar, 38 Waiwera Rd., Waiwera
Contact: Diane on 021483849 dianenewcombe@hotmail.com
Poetry Day Prelude: Shore Words
Get ready for the Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day in the best possible way. Join MC Stu Bagby, plus long time poet Piers Davies and co-facilitator of the Titirangi Poets Group, Janet Charman, author of many poetry books, Amy Marguerite who is working on her debut poetry collection, and Jack Ross, author of numerous novels, short fiction and poetry collections. Plus songs from poet musician Caitlin Lucy Smith.
Cash only book-selling table at the event.
Entry Details: RSVP: Please reserve a seat via the libraries’ website, ring 890 4900, or email takapunaevents@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz. Koha appreciated.
Date/Times: Tuesday, 22 August, 6pm - 7.30pm. Light refreshments from 6pm, event starts at 6.30pm
Location: Level 1, Takapuna Library, 9 The Strand, Takapuna, 0740
Contact: Jenny Cole jen.cole@btinternet.com
Further Info: https://www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Pages/news-and-blogs.aspxhttps://www.facebook.com/TakapunaLibrary/ Eventbrite: https://tinyurl.com/37mndw2t
Open Mic Poetry
Open mic poetry event to celebrate National Poetry Day in the library for all ages. Bring some of your own poetry to share and/or your favourite poems by others that mean something to you. Sign up on the day for the open mic if you're interested, time/space permitting. Tea and coffee provided. All welcome.
Entry Details: All welcome.
Date/Times: Saturday 26 August 10am-12pm
Location: East Coast Bays Library, 8 Bute Road, Browns Bay, Auckland
Contact: ecblibraryevents@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Further info: https://www.facebook.com/EastCoastBaysLibrary/
Central Auckland
The Earth Child
This special premiere concert is offered as a tribute to Katherine Mansfield in the centenary year of her death. An evening of beautifully performed songs of NZ poetry by Mansfield and her contemporary, Ursula Bethell, set to music by acclaimed NZ composer, Janet Jennings. Featuring the mesmerising soprano voice of rising star Natasha Te Rupe-Wilson (back briefly from performing in Europe) and stunning piano played by NZTrio member and internationally in-demand Somi Kim. Not to be missed for poetry and music lovers alike - brought to you at drastically reduced prices courtesy of Phantom Billstickers and Creative Communities Scheme Auckland.
Entry Details: Tickets $15/$12. Event open to all ages. Bookings advised.
Date/Times: Friday 25 August, 7pm - 8.15pm
Location: St Matthew-in-the-city, 132 Hobson Street, Auckland
Contact: Jenni at pactnz@gmail.com
Further Info: https://events.humanitix.com/the-earth-child I https://www.facebook.com/events/836378247895112
All Tomorrow’s Poets 2023
Join us for our famous yearly event, All Tomorrow's Poets on National Poetry Day! Embracing new and emerging voices, cutting-edge poetry and multi-disciplinary approaches, All Tomorrow's Poets brings together a community of writers, readers and makers to celebrate burgeoning New Zealand talent and new movements in poetry. This year our readers are: Haro Lee, Tim Wilson, Hebe Kearney, Arielle Walker, Shania Pablo, Ngaio Simmons, Zephyr Zhang, Beth Torrance- Hetherington, Yě Yě, Abby Irwin-Jones, and Roman Sigley.
Entry Details: All Ages, BYO booze
Dates/Times: Friday 25th August, 6.30-8pm. No RSVP required
Location: Upstairs at Time Out Bookstore, 432 Mt Eden Rd, Mt Eden, Auckland 1024
Contact: Roman and Abby @ books@timeout.co.nz
bad apple presents FRAMED!
Moving from the online space and into the real world, bad apple celebrates its second Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day by taking up residency in two galleries for an evening. Local LGBTQIA+ poets in both Tāmaki Makaurau and Te Whanganui-a-tara will read brand new work that draws inspiration from significant art pieces that move them. Come along to enjoy these wonderful exhibitions of queer poetry as we harmonise the experience of visual art with spoken word. All the work (and more) will also be available to read online at badapple.gay.
Entry Details: Free. Open to all ages.
Date/Times: Friday 25 August from 6:30–8:30pm
Location:
Tāmaki Makaurau — Samoa House Library, Level 2/283 Karangahape Rd
Te Whanganui-a-Tara — Enjoy Contemporary Art Space, 211 Left Bank, Te Aro
Contact: Damien Levi, damien@badapple.gay
Further Info:
Tāmaki Makaurau: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bad-apple-presents-framed-auckland-tickets-695274323217?aff=oddtdtcreato
Te Whanganui-a-Tara:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bad-apple-presents-framed-wellington-tickets-695285496637?aff=oddtdtcreator
Write Your Life – Childhood
Participants will use their childhoods as raw material. They will be guided through the creative process, and everyone is guaranteed to leave with a fresh piece of writing valuable to them. Experienced poet/teacher Amanda has perfected this workshop, which makes writing easy. She’s dedicated to showing how much fun it is to just pick up a pen and get going. This event will be followed up by a complementary Open Mic event you can share your work at.
Entry Details: Free, but bookings required.
Date/Times: August 25th 4-6pm
Location: Mt Roskill Library, 546 Mt Albert Road, Three Kings 1042
Contact: Hebe Kearney, hebe.kearney@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Further Info: Bookings: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/write-your-life-childhood-tickets-669733118787
| Facebook Event: https://fb.me/e/1igT8Ffmz
Open Mic: Childhood Memories
Everyone is invited to come along and share their childhood memories in poem form! Whether they’re happy or difficult or a mix of both, we want everyone’s inner child to feel seen and nourished by words. Attendees of the ‘Write Your Life -- Childhood’ workshop are encouraged to come along and share the shiny new poem they’ll have written. Bring-a-plate for a shared afternoon tea, the theme of which is 'things you'd bring to a child's birthday party'. Time to embrace nostalgia!
Entry Details: Free, all welcome.
Date/Times: August 27th 2-4pm
Location: Mt Roskill Library, 546 Mt Albert Road, Three Kings 1042
Contact: Hebe Kearney, hebe.kearney@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Further Info: Facebook Event: https://fb.me/e/19wN6HWms
Black Out Poetry at The Open Book
Poetry making fun for all ages! Try your hand at black out poetry, a simple way of creating bespoke poetry using pages from a book or newspaper. The Open Book will have all the materials you need to get stuck in, including black markers and recycled book pages. An all-day event, drop by with your friends, family and dogs and enjoy a chill time in this cozy second-hand book store. Once you’re done, feel free to leave your poetry for others to read or take it home with you.
Entry Details: Free. Event for all ages. No bookings required. Drop in any time between 10.30am and 4.30pm.
Date/Times: Sunday 27 August, 10.30am to 4.30pm
Location: The Open Book, 201 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
Contact: info@theopenbook.co.nz
Further info: www.theopenbook.co.nz
Open Mic Poetry at The Open Book
Choose to listen or join in as local poets take to the mic at The Open Book. This casual, welcoming open mic event is a chance for you to hear budding poets share their work. Support poetry in a big way by participating in it live, all while surrounded by second-hand books. Entry is free for all. There’ll be light snacks and beverages on hand too. If you would like to share your poetry, get in touch or simply pop down on the day.
Entry Details: Free. Event is for all ages, but parental discretion advised as poems shared will be up to the individual poets.
Date/Times: Sunday 27 August, 3pm-4pm
Location: The Open Book, 201 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
Contact: info@theopenbook.co.nz
Further info: www.theopenbook.co.nz
The Great Grey Lynn Poetry and Pizza Congress
Bring friends, hear poetry and eat pizza at an evening session in our community living room, the much-loved Grey Lynn Library. Performance poetry award-winner Tim Heath will be joined by the Monday Poets, a group of senior writers brought together by the Ockham Collective. Performers including Janice Marriott, Alison Kroon and Dixie Dolejs will entertain, enthuse and move you. Sponsored by Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day and Hell Pizza Grey Lynn. Your booking on our Eventbrite page below is appreciated: this helps us plan and cater.
Entry Details: Free. All welcome.
Date/Time: Wed 23 August, 6pm
Location: Grey Lynn Library, 474 Great North Rd, Auckland 1021
Contact: claire.gummer@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Further Info: https://greylynnpoetry-pizza.eventbrite.com, www.facebook.com/GreyLynnLibrary
UoA Poetry Club “Poets in Nature” Poetry Writing Event 2023
Join the University of Auckland Poetry Club's first ever immersive experience! Join us for a relaxing session to get down some thoughts prompted by your presence within nature and fuelled by some kai. If you would like to join us for this soul-nourishing session, please RSVP by visiting the link https://forms.gle/4mFXAwtkb5Xzs4or5 Spaces are limited!
Entry Details: Free for paid members of the UoA Poetry Club, gold coin koha for non-members. You do not have to be a student of the University of Auckland to attend; anyone is welcome!
Date/Times: 26th August 11am-2pm in Albert Park. The back-up date in the event of bad weather will be the 27th August.
Location: Albert Park
Contact: UoA Poetry Club, uoapoetryclub@gmail.com
Poetry Central 2023
Join the Isthmus Poets at Auckland Central Library to celebrate Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day. With guest reader Siobhan Harvey and an open mic for emerging poets. The Isthmus poets will launch their new collection, Terrazzo.
Entry Details: A free all ages event.
Date/Times: Friday 25th August, 6.00pm (sharp) start to 7.45pm. Doors open/open mic sign up from 5.30pm.
Location: The Event Space, ground floor, Central Library 44-46 Lorne St. Auckland CBD.
Contact: Lincoln Jaques ltjaques@yahoo.com
Further Info: General info and open mic guidelines: https://www.facebook.com/isthmuspoets/
Poetry and Psychoanalysis ON: ‘Face the Truth”
The New Zealand Institute of Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy (NZIPP) celebrates 100 years of Katherine Mansfield's creative legacy with a Poetry Competition and an Event in occasion of the National Poetry Day. The theme is based on Katherine Mansfield's quote: “Face the Truth.”
Both Poetry and Psychoanalysis are driven by a sort of unknown matrix towards getting to know the ‘truth’ about oneself. What is this truth about? What does it mean facing the truth? Why are we interested in it? Can we really face the truth? As there is always another truth, an unknown or invisible part of it!
The event will be facilitated by Dr Gloriana Bartoli, who will introduce the winners of the poetry competition and invite them to read their poems. The audience is invited to participate by sharing thoughts, reactions, and reflections on the link between poetry and psychoanalysis, stimulated by the poems presented and one’s own experience.
Poems will be published on NZIPPWebsite and Facebook.
Entry Details: FEE: $20, students $10. Please book by payment to NZIPP account: 38-9016-0052471-00 by 24 August 2023.
Date/Times: Friday 25 August 2023 at 7 - 9:30 pm
Location: Jubilee Building, 545 Parnell Rd, Parnell, Auckland. And available remotely via Zoom; a link will be sent upon registration
Contact: gloriana.bartoli@gmail.com
Further Info: NZIPP Webpage http://www.psychotherapy.co.nz/ Facebook LinkedIn #NZPoetryDay #KM23
West Auckland
AJ Bell and the Poets
Kumeu Live presents AJ Bell in Concert with local poets in celebration of Phantom Bill Stickers National Poetry Day. The poets are Richard Pamatatau, Lincoln Jaques and Denise O’Hagan. The evening will start with the poets reading their work and then combining their poetry with musical performances by AJ Bell and band members.
Entry Details: Cost: $25. Event open to all ages, BYO, glasses provided, door sales available, eftpos, Tickets on Under the Radar.
Date/Times: Saturday 9th September, 7.30-10.00pm
Location: Kumeu Arts and 300 Main Rd, SH16 Huapai
Contact: Guy Wishart gwishart1@gmail.com
Further Info: Tickets at: AJ Bell And The Poets - Phantom Bill Stickers National Poetry Day Event - Kumeu Live (at Kumeu Arts), Kumeu
Rangitahi Poetry Showcase
New Lynn War Memorial Library invites you to our second Rangatahi Poetry Showcase! Poets share their words with friends and whānau, and we celebrate the publication and launch of a dedicated book of their collected works, which will also become available in the Auckland Libraries catalogue, published through Auckland Libraries.
The book will be available to purchase via cash donation on the night, with all proceeds going straight to the poets!
Entry Details: Admission is free.
Date/Times:26 August, 4.30pm - 6.30pm
Location: New Lynn Library, 3 Memorial Drive
Contact: NewLynn.Library@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Further Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/1335033590559849/1335033620559846/?ref=newsfeed
A Visual Verse
In celebration of National Poetry Day, take time to explore, experiment, and learn the origins and possibilities of visual poetry. Aided with tips and techniques in this one-day adults visual poetry workshop, we'll be crafting poetry then setting our words free in visual form using a variety of media including gouache, watercolour, collage, ink, and charcoal.
Unleash your artistic potential and let visual poetry unlock the artist within! 'A Visual Verse' with Rachael Naomi @naomi_rachael and Miriam Barr @mirilarbar.
Date/Times: Saturday 26 August 10am-4pm
Location: Corban Estate Art Centre
Contact: info@ceac.org.nz
Further Info: https://ceac.org.nz/workshops/art-workshop/a-visual-verse
Experience Cultures: National Poetry Day
Celebrate cultures! Experience the diversity and similarity of our community through the sharing of poetry read aloud, in different languages.
This event is multilingual. All welcome. Proudly organized by Te Manawa, New Zealand Poem and Art Association, Art One International.
Entry Details: Free
Date/Times: 25 August, 3pm-5pm
Location: Te Manawa, 11 Kohuhu Lane, Westgate, Auckland 0814
Contact: temanawa@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Further Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/635943234953310
South Auckland
NZ Poetry Day
Glenbrook School will be celebrating poetry and our poets throughout August 21st -25th.
We invite students, parents and families of the school to create and share their poetry with us. Poems can be presented in writing, a recorded performance, using technology or as an art piece. Be as creative and as inventive as you can. Please email your poetry to Ms Stuart stuartl@glenbrook.school.nz.
Support Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day.
“Poetry is when its emotion has found its thought and the thought has found words”, Robert Frost.
Event Details: Closed event.
East Auckland
Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day at Howick Library
To celebrate New Zealand poetry day, visit Howick Library Facebook page to view our talented staff read a poem from a New Zealand author accompanied by cello playing. Visit our library to view our display of New Zealand poetry books.
Entry Details: No cost. Free
Date/Times: Monday 14th August to Friday 25th August
Location: Howick Library, 25 Uxbridge Road, Auckland
Contact: Victoria Cawkwell: Victoria.cawkwell@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Further Info: Facebook Event | https://www.facebook.com/howicklibrary/
Waikato/Coromandel
Hamilton
POETRY AT THE MUSEUM
Come and help us celebrate National Poetry Day on Friday 25 August by enjoying some poetry at Waikato Museum.
Curators will guide you through exhibitions Of This Place: Margot Philips’ Landscapes, Rita Angus: New Zealand Modernist | He Ringatoi Hou o Aotearoa and we'll explore the National Contemporary Art Award.
Dadon Rowell will facilitate some poetry writing and invite people to share poems they've written based on the exhibitions.
Entry Details: Free. Register required via Poetry at the Museum | 2023 (hamiltonbookmonth.com)
Date/Times: 25 August, 1.30-4.00pm
Location: Waikato Museum, 1 Grantham St, Hamilton
Contact: Hamilton Book Month HamiltonBookMonth@gmail.com
Further Info: Poetry at the Museum | 2023 (hamiltonbookmonth.com)
Matamata
Poetry Tasting
Join other poets or poetry curious folk to celebrate National Poetry Day at Te Aroha Library. Sample a selection of poetry from around our beautiful country and even share your own if you are keen. Drinks and nibbles provided.
Numbers are limited so please register at the library or at mpdc.nz/poetrytasting
Entry Details: Cost - Free event open to all aged 15+. Please RSVP online at mpdc.nz/poetrytasting or in the library.
Date/Times: 25th August 7-9pm
Location: Te Aroha Library, 43 Rewi Street, Te Aroha 3320
Contact: Sarah Lee slee@mpdc.govt.nz
Further Info: mpdc.nz/poetrytasting
Bay of Plenty/Rotorua
Katikati
Share a Poem
Since the conception of National Poetry Day, Katikati dance teacher/writer Gaye Hemsley has organized a selection of events to celebrate the occasion. This year she will be visiting two retirement villages giving out daffodils and reading some humorous poems.
At 11.30 lovers of poetry are invited to The Arts Junction 36 Main Rd Katikati to share a poem. Listen or read
Katikati residents are encouraged to take a walk in our local Haiku Path, email one of the featured haiku to gayehemsley@gmail.com to go into the draw to win some gift vouchers.
Entry Details: Daffodil Day donation appreciated
Date/Time: 11:30am 25th August
Location: The Arts Junction 36 Main Rd Katikati
Contact: gayehemsley@gmail.com Ph 0272748753
Tauranga
Rhymes & Lyrics
Come and celebrate National Poetry Day, with original flavours of Spoken Word, Hip-Hop and RnB.
Try your hand at the Open Mic section, or just come and groove along to the music and poetry of Archaeo, Captain Houndstooth, Ronna Grace, King Cass, Phreaze, Jenna, Mr Ridl, and The Legendary: Headline Act 4 CORNERS. With sounds by DJ Ayesha.
Entry Details: $20 purchased online. $30 at the Door. R18.
Date/Times: 25 August, 6:30-10:30 pm
Location: 11 Totara Street Mount Maunganui
Contact: Dhaivat Mehta connect@craft.org.nz. Ticket Purchases: Rhymes and Lyrics | Totara Street - Flicket
Further Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/652568039725384; https://www.craft.org.nz/rhymes-lyrics
Words on Fire National Poetry Day
Come to He Puna Manawa (Tauranga Library) to enjoy a range of events celebrating Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day. There are two sessions for spoken word performances from local wordsmiths, a poetry workshop with Fi B Sullivan, young wordsmiths reading their winning entries in a sonnet writing competition with prizes presented by Hon Jan Tinetti and a lunchtime presentation, Everything, Everywhere: A Journey in Asian Speculative Poetry by International award-winning poet Lee Murray. Lee will read from her Bram Stoker Award-winning collection Tortured Willows and forthcoming prose poetry work Fox Spirit on a Distant Cloud, winner of the 2023 NZSA Laura Solomon Cuba Press Prize.
Entry Details: All events are free, but registrations are required for the workshop https://rb.gy/f6kbu
Date/Times: August 25
11am - 12pm Spoken word performances from local wordsmiths
12pm – 12.45pm Everything, Everywhere: A Journey in Asian Speculative Poetry with Lee Murray
12.45pm - 2pm. Spoken word performances from local wordsmiths
2.30pm – 3.30pm Explore your inner poet. Find out about rhythms, and rhymes, structure and the power of words with FiB Sullivan.
Listen to spoken word performances from local wordsmiths.
5.30pm – 6.30pm Support some young wordsmiths as they read their winning entries in a sonnet writing competition and celebrate with the winners!
Location: He Puna Manawa, 21 Devonport Road, Tauranga
Contact: penny.guy@tauranga.govt.nz
Further Info: https://rb.gy/f6kbu
Gisborne/Hawke’s Bay Region
Napier
Soundshell Poems II
Come along to Napier's famous soundshell and listen to Napier Live Poets read their work, to celebrate National Poetry Day. Poetry heard outdoors is a wonderful experience! Bring a chair if you wish.
Entry Details: Admission is free.
Date/Times: 25th August. Readings will begin at 11:00 am and finish at 1:30 pm.
Location: Napier Soundshell
Contact: 021 027 98395
Further Info: https://www.facebook.com/hawkesbaypoets
Taranaki
New Plymouth
Sayings and other Poems
Step up to the microphone and immerse yourself in the world of words at this gathering of local spoken and written word enthusiasts. The theme that unites us for Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day is ‘Sayings.' Embrace your favourite quote as a wellspring of inspiration. All poets will be welcomed with open arms and warm hearts. Embrace the camaraderie of fellow creatives, as we paint the canvas of emotions, forming a masterpiece of verse at The Art Loft in New Plymouth.
Entry Details: FREE, open to all ages and abilities
Date/Times: Friday 25th August 6pm-8pm
Location: The Art Loft 33 Devon Street West, New Plymouth
Contact: Helen Griffiths poet@thebandanabard.com
Manawatū/Whanganui
Murmur Presents: The Murmur Poets and Poetry Open Mic
Palmy’s Murmur creative writing group perform their work for Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day! Come and hear some emerging poets share their favourite pieces in an awesome environment. Murmur is a queer friendly, neurodivergence accepting, diverse group of writers. The performers include rosa b., Reuben Goddard, Saba D. Ha, and Dorian David Leigh. There will be an open mic, so if you’d like to join us and share your poetry, email Murmur a poem or two.
Entry Details: Free. Open to all ages, but there will be mature content.
Date/Times: 25th August, 7pm-9pm (doors open at 6:30pm)
Location: Snails Artist Run Spaces, 103 Taonui St, Palmerston North
Contact: Dorian at murmurpalmy@gmail.com
Further Info: https://fb.me/e/1eqBYRoZL
Off the Page: An Evening with Robert Sullivan
Celebrating National Poetry Day. Bring friends & hear poetry at an evening session in the living room of the city with award winning poet Robert Sullivan.
6:15PM - Tribute for Paula Harris
6:45PM - Light refreshments
7:00PM - Robert Sullivan
Entry Details: Free. All welcome.
Date/Times: Wednesday 23 August, 6:15-8pm
Location: Palmerston North City Library
Contact: genny.vella@pncc.govt.nz
Further Info: https://www.facebook.com/palmerstonnorthcitylibrary
Pot Luck Poetry
Join us for a reading of poetry celebrating National Poetry Day and the magic of Koanga/Spring.
Bring one poem about Koanga/Spring to share. Everyone welcome.
Entry Details: Free. All welcome.
Date/Times: Friday 25 August / 12noon
Location: Mezzanine Floor / Central Library 4 The Square Palmerston North
Contact:genny.vella@pncc.govt.nz
Further Info: https://www.facebook.com/palmerstonnorthcitylibrary
Poetry Open Mic Evening
Join us for an evening of poetry on the open microphone. Bring along some poetry to recite - either your own, or your favourite poet's, or both. Light refreshments provided.
Date/Times: 26th August 2023, 6.30pm-8.30pm (door open 6.15pm)
Location: Woodville Library, 45 Vogel Street, Woodville
Light Refreshments Provided, BYO permitted
Contact: library@tararuadc.govt.nz or call – Woodville Library 06 376 0212
Further Info: Tararua District Library | Facebook| Tararua District Library (NZ) : Te Whare pukapuka o Tāmaki-nui-a-Rua (wordpress.com)
Spine Book Poetry
Come into any of our Libraries Tararua Branches to make a Spine Book Poem on the 25th August for Billstickers National Poetry Day. It is simple. Choose a selection of books from the library shelves and stack them, so the titles on the spine create a poem. Anyone can have a go! There will be a prize for the best junior and best adult poem, (judged by library staff. winners announced 1st September). Runs all day.
Location:
Dannevirke Library, 1 Station Street, Dannevirke
Woodville Library, 45 Vogel Street, Woodville
Pahiatua Library, 167 Main Street, Pahiatua
Eketahuna Library, 31 Main Street, Eketahuna
Runs all day
Contact: library@tararuadc.govt.nz
Further Info: Tararua District Library | Facebook| Tararua District Library (NZ) : Te Whare pukapuka o Tāmaki-nui-a-Rua (wordpress.com)
Roll the Dice Poetry
Come along to any of the Libraries Tararua branches on Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day and give Roll the Dice Poetry a go!
Dice will be provided with various poetry prompts, roll the dice and write a poem using the prompt it lands on.
Date/Times: 25 August 2023, 10am to 12pm
Morning tea Provided
Location:
Dannevirke Library, 1 Station Street, Dannevirke
Woodville Library, 45 Vogel Street, Woodville
Pahiatua Library, 167 Main Street, Pahiatua
Ekētahuna Library, 31 Main Street, Ekētahuna
Contact: library@tararuadc.govt.nz
Further Info: Tararua District Library | Facebook| Tararua District Library (NZ) : Te Whare pukapuka o Tāmaki-nui-a-Rua (wordpress.com)
Wellington/Kapiti Coast
Wellington Central
Lower Hutt
Upper Hutt
Kapiti Coast
Wairarapa
Wellington Central
The National Poetry Day Extravaganza
On National Poetry Day, New Zealand Poet Laureate Chris Tse and friends invite students to the National Library of New Zealand in Wellington to learn about poetry in its many exciting forms. Bring along your school group and join Poet Laureate Chris Tse to explore the power of poetry through workshops, zine-making and slam, and how it can shape the world you want to live in.
Entry Details: Free. Event open to Year 9 -13 students. Register your school group at events.natlib@dia.govt.nz
Date/Times: Friday 25 August, 9am - 12pm for Year 9 -10 students, 12.30pm – 3.30pm for Year 11-13 students (also open to junior students)
Location: National Library of New Zealand, corner Molesworth and Aitken St, Thorndon, Wellington
Contact: events.natlib@dia.govt.nz
Further Info: Website listing: https://natlib.govt.nz/events/the-national-poetry-day-extravaganza-august-25-2023
Poetry Open Mic
The Mt Vic Hub is proud to partner with Motif Poetry for Wellington's cosiest open mic! We are excited to fill our little space with spoken word, spill poetry out onto the pavement and send whispered stories out Wellington-wide.
Co-hosted by Mt Vic Hub coordinator Sara Hirsch and local poet Dr Blue, this is a chance for locals to gather at the mic and share stories. This is the launch of what will hopefully become a regular Mt Vic event. We are hoping that we fill the Hub and have to hunt for a bigger venue for the next one! So come help us create a crowd. Sign up to read a poem on the door (up to 5 mins of poetry/storytelling or 2 poems, whichever is shorter).
Entry Details: Koha entry! Free tea & biscuits provided! Age 14+ event.
Date/Time: Friday 25th August, 6-9pm
Location: Mt Vic Community Hub, 24e Elizabeth St, Mt Victoria, Wellington,
Contact: Sara Hirsch hello@mtvichub.org.nz
Further Info: https://fb.me/e/6BPDcIHUS
Exploring Generations: Children and Youth's poetry workshop
Explore the theme of GENERATIONS! Write poems with a published poet, Riah Tahana-Dawson, and find your voice! This is a workshop for both beginner poets and seasoned poets alike. Your poem may even be published in Landing Press’ next anthology!
Entry details: Free to enter. Kai provided.
Date/times: Friday 25 August, 6.00-8.00pm
Location: Newtown Library, Wellington.
Contact: landingpressnz@gmail.com
Further Info: landingpressnz.com
https://www.facebook.com/landingpressnz
SALON – POETS ON THE WRITERS WALK
Join Wellington Writers Walk and Wellington Branch of New Zealand Society of Authors on Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day, for a celebration of poetry featured in, and inspired by, Wellington Writers Walk. At this salon event we’ll announce the winners of our POETS ON THE WRITERS WALK competition. We’ll have readings from competition winners and entrants, an open mic, and special guests. As well as new poems, we’ll celebrate the poems and poets featured among the 23 typographical sculptures of our iconic waterfront WELLINGTON WRITERS WALK – in its 21st year in 2023 – with readings from the sculptures, and visuals projected on screen.
Entry details: Entry by donation, $5 recommended
Date/Times: 25 August 2023, 5.30—8.30pm
Location: Adam Auditorium at City Gallery Wellington Te Whare ToiContact: wellington@nzauthors.org.nz
Further info: http://www.authors.org.nz/wellington
The Poet Laureate’s poetry quiz
Do you know your Manhire from your Mansfield? Or the difference between a haiku and a sonnet? Join New Zealand Poet Laureate Chris Tse for an all-ages quiz about everything poetry, from Shakespeare to contemporary Aotearoa poets. Get a team together, grab coffee and kai from our friends at HOME Café, and show off your lyrical knowledge for a chance to win some great prizes.
Entry Details: Free. Event open to all ages. Register at the National Library on the day.
Date/Times: Saturday 26 August 2023, 10am to 12pm
Location: HOME Café, National Library of New Zealand, corner Molesworth and Aitken St, Thorndon, Wellington
Contact: events.natlib@dia.govt.nz
Further Info: Website listing: https://natlib.govt.nz/events/the-poet-laureates-poetry-quiz-august-26-2023
Letterpress Love-in
Experience the allure of hand-setting and hand-printing using historic metal types and presses at Wai-te-ata Press, Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington. Bring your favourite poem and join The Printer, Sydney Shep, to make a collaborative letterpress poetry poster. Sessions start promptly on the hour. Bookings essential. Confirm your place by emailing wtapress@vuw.ac.nz by 18 August.
Entry details: Free, event open to newbies and seasoned creatives alike.
Date/Times: Friday 25 August, 10-4pm
Location: Wai-te-ata Press, Room 006 Rankine Brown, Gate 3, Kelburn Parade, Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, Kelburn Campus, Wellington
Contact: Sydney Shep, wtapress@vuw.ac.nz
Further info: https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/wtapress/about/events/national-poetry-day-2023 Instagram: @waiteatapress
Dedications and Postscripts: Celebrating Jacquie Sturm
Pioneer and trailblazer, Jacquie Sturm is thought to be the first Māori woman to achieve a Masters degree in Aotearoa. She crossed paths with the Sisters of Compassion at Hīruharama/Jeruselum where her husband (New Zealand poet James K Baxter) lived for a number of years. Quietly triumphant, her poetry weaves together a unique portrayal of Aotearoa landscape and identity. Join us for a night exploring this exceptional Aotearoa poet - her work, work inspired by her, and work in the same vein.
Entry Details: Open to all, entry by koha
Date/Times: Friday 25th August, 7pm-8.30pm
Location: Chapel, Our Lady's Home of Compassion, 2 Rhine Street, Island Bay, Wellington
Contact: events@compassion.org.nz
Ōrongohau | Best New Zealand Poems
What better way to anticipate Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day* than with a line-up of 11 of the best? Come along to hear Nick Ascroft, Morgan Bach, James Brown, Anahera Gildea, Tim Jones, Michaela Keeble, Frankie McMillan, Khadro Mohamed, Sarah Scott, Siobhan Harvey and Frances Samuel read their poem selected for the annual online publication Ōrongohau | Best New Zealand Poems, plus a favourite New Zealand poem. The poets will be introduced by Damien Wilkins.
(*National Poetry Day is on Friday 25 August).
Entry details: This event is open to the public and free of charge.
Date/Times: Monday 21 August 2023 12.15-1.15pm
Location: Te Papa Marae, Level 4, Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington
Contact: Katie.hardwick-smith@vuw.ac.nz 04- 463 6854
Further information: Go to the IIML website: http://wgtn.ac.nz/modernletters/about/events/writers-Mondays
Poetry Showcase
Join Unity Books Wellington for a poetry showcase to hear from five fresh, new Pōneke poets! The poets will take the floor to share their own poetry and read other writers' poems that have inspired their work. Each poet will share why poetry is important to them and why they choose the poetic form to convey their ideas and creativity. All are welcome to join us in the shop to celebrate these poets and what better way than to be surrounded by books while you do!
Entry fee: Free, open to all ages.
Date/Time: Friday 25th August, 6pm-7.30pm
Location: Unity Books Wellington, 57 Willis Street
Contact: Kate, wellington@unitybooks.co.nz
Further info: FB event page to be made
National Poetry Day @ QMC Library
The written word will come alive in the library on 25 August 2023. Come and see Anahera Gildea. She is a visual artist, performing artist, writer and teacher. Her vibrant poems are informed by her Māori heritage. Come see her at sessions 1&2.
Rose Northey, poet comedian, illustrator and artist will enliven your day in sessions 2&3. Queen Margaret College Library is the poetry hub!
Entry Details: Free. This is a closed event.
Date/Times: 25 August
Contact: Jude.grogan@qmc.school.nz
Further Info: qmclibraryweebly.co.nz
Lower Hutt
‘The Night Before… a National Poetry Day Open-mic’
As the sun sets on the eve of Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day, Schrödinger’s Books is hosting an unforgettable and intimate open-mic in their independent bookshop in the heart of Jackson Street. The Night Before will also feature three special featured poets, Nicole Titihuia Hawkins, Trinity Thompson-Browne and New Zealand poet laureate, Chris Tse, who will open the evening with readings of their poetry.
Following a short break, where you’ll have an opportunity to chat to the poets, get a book signed and grab some nibbles, the open-mic segment will begin. Bring your own poem and take the stage! To ensure fairness, the order of readings will be determined by picking names from a hat. This inclusive format encourages aspiring poets, seasoned wordsmiths, and everyone in between to come forward and share their creativity.
Schrödinger’s Books is an inclusive space, any form of racism, sexism, homophobia or transphobia is not welcome. Suitable for people 16+. Submit your name for the open mic by emailing poems@schrodingersbooks.co.nz
Entry Details: Free entry. RSVP by email or using the Facebook event. Ages 16+
Date/Times: Thursday 24th of August, Doors 5:45, 6pm start
Location: Schrödinger’s Books, 137 Jackson Street, Petone 5012
Contact: Schrödinger’s Books - books@schrodingersbooks.co.nz, Submit your name for the open mic by emailing poems@schrodingersbooks.co.nz
Further Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/1422126165233235
Upper Hutt
Kapiti Coast
Open Mic Poetry Night: If You're a Poet, We Want to Know It "Ink/Waitahi"
Celebrate Poetry at the Open Mic Poetry Night – the 11th Annual Kāpiti Coast District Libraries Poetry Competition 2023If you're a poet, we want to know it! "Ink|Waituhi"
Come and enjoy a night of poetry at the Phantom National Poetry Day Friday 25 August, 5.30-6.30 pm at Paraparaumu Library
Anyone is welcome to come and read their poem, or just listen in at this friendly and inclusive event. The results of our competition will be announced, and the winners are encouraged to read their poems.
The 2023 print edition of the poetry book, containing all the poems entered in the competition, will be available to purchase at the event.
The eBook is free to download from 6.30 pm, Friday 25 August 2023.
Entry Details: Free, Anyone in Kāpiti community is welcome.
Date/Times: Friday 25 August, 5.30-6.30 pm.
Typewriter Bonanza
This Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day, are you ready to create a poem on a trusty old typewriter? Did you know that, once upon a time, people didn't have computers or smartphones? And did you know people used machines called typewriters to write letters and poems instead? Well, this is your chance to travel back in time and click-clack away on a real typewriter. Come sit at our table and choose a typewriter from our colourful collection! Roving poet Katja Starke will teach you all about how to insert the paper, where the ink ribbons is, and how to type on the big keys. What will your poem be about?
Event Details: No charge, no bookings required.
Time/Dates: Friday 25 August, 3.30–5pm
Location: Porirua Libraries City Centre branch, Children’s Area – 17 Parumoana Street, Porirua.
Contact: bee.trudgeon@poriruacity.govt.nz
Further info: https://porirualibrary.org.nz/whats-on/ or https://www.facebook.com/groups/PoriruaLibraryChildrensChat
Generations: a writing workshop for Arabic-speaking women
This workshop, presented by Landing Press, is both for women who are writers and women who aren't! Write small stories and poems about your family in Arabic and/or English. Have the chance to see your writing in a book! We will look after your children while you write.
Entry details: Free to enter. Kai provided. 1pm-3pm.
Date/times: Saturday 26 August, 1.00-3.00pm
Location: Porirua Central Library, 17 Parumoana St, Porirua
Contact: landingpressnz@gmail.com
Further Info: landingpressnz.com
https://www.facebook.com/landingpressnz
ورشة عمل للكتابة الإبداعية للنساء.. اكتبي قصة قصيرة أو قصيدة عن عائلتك باللغة العربية أو الإنجليزية لتحصلي على نسخة مطبوعة من
Wairarapa
REMEMBERING ROBIN HYDE
We remember Robin on AUGUST 23. She died on this day in 1939.
We celebrate her life as journalist, poet, novelist, war correspondent, mother, editor, socialist, Māori rights activist, feminist, pacifist & one of the great authors of 20th-Century Aotearoa.
Evening of film, biography, poetry & conversation. Join Philippa Werry (Author, Iris & Me), Juanita Deely (Director, A Home In This World & Editor, The Uppish Hen) & Mary McCallum, Publisher, The Cuba Press. Books for purchase & signing through Almo's Books. Film through Sunset Cinema.
(Philippa Werry will also lead a workshop at Carterton School, through Wairarapa Library Service.)
Entry Details: Free seating. First-come-first-served. Koha entry.
Date/Times: 23 August, 2023, Wednesday, 6-8pm
Location: Carterton Community Courthouse, Holloway St, Wairarapa
Contact: Madeleine Slavick, Coordinator, Wairarapa Word, events.waiword@gmail.com
Further Info: https://www.facebook.com/events/243167781993495
'Your Highlight’
Katja Stark, Wellington poet and writer welcomes you to join her at Chicken and Frog Bookstore, Saturday 26 August, between 11am and 1pm. She says: "Welcome to my living room! It is plenty cosy, except for the bare walls… Grab a book & a neon highlighter and try to find a poem hiding on its pages... Once you’ve found your poem, lets wallpaper my room with your highlighted poetic pages!" Suitable for families and anyone who loves words.
Entry Details: Free event.
Date/Times: Saturday, 26 August, 11am - 1pm (drop in)
Location: Chicken and Frog Bookstore, 3 Clifford Square, Featherston
Contact: Joanna Ludbrook, ludbrookjoanna@gmail.com
Further Info: Facebook: Chicken and Frog Bookstore
Interactive Poetry Workshop with Sara Hirsch
Join UK Poetry Slam Champion Sara Hirsch for a fun, relaxed, and interactive workshop, to celebrate National Poetry Day. With a focus on the theme of 'refuge' we will use writing exercises and prompts to explore the full potential of our creativity. You might leave with an idea for a story or poem, the first line of a song or even a full manuscript for your debut novel. This session will be about embracing your inner writer and giving them some time to shine. No experience necessary, all you need is your imagination and a pen and paper. www.sarahirsch.co.uk @sarsbars89 Open to everyone, not necessarily existing poets.
Entry Details: $25 per person. Years 11 to 13 and Adults
Date/Time: Saturday 26th August 2pm -4pm
Location: Fareham Creative Space, 80 Underhill Road, Featherston
Contact: registrations@farehamcreativespace.nz
Further Info: www.farehamcreativespace.nz
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Canterbury
Christchurch
Poetry arrived in search of me: Write On Young Writers Online
The Write On team works with hundreds of young poets each year. Our tutor, Gail Ingram, has selected some poems that have stood out from 2023 workshops so far and we have curated them online in time for National Poetry Day. Featuring young poets from ages 6 to 18.
“And it was at that age ... Poetry arrived in search of me.” Pablo Neruda
Entry Details: Free access
Date/Times: Live Online on August 25th
Location: https://www.schoolforyoungwriters.org/blog
Contact: Heather McQuillan schoolforyoungwriters@gmail.com
Further Info: Event: https://www.facebook.com/schoolforyoungwriters/
Unruly Memories
Buildings hold memories, histories and stories as much as pages do. Nathan Joe, Claudia Jardine, Isla Huia (Te Āti Haunui a-Pāpārangi, Uenuku), Frankie McMillan and Ariana Tikao (Kāi Tahu) come together to weave words within the bricks, mortar and stone of The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora. Our special guided tour will take you through familiar and new haunts alike, with our all-star poets responding to spaces with poetic recollections and reactions. Afterwards, come together with our storytellers to share a drink in the Great Hall.
Entry details: $36 full / $31 concession (service fees apply). all ages. Book now via wordchristchurch.co.nz
Date/times: Friday 25 August, 6pm - 7.30pm
Location: the Arts Centre, Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch
Contact: WORD Christchurch, admin@wordchristchurch.co.nz
Further Info: https://wordchristchurch.co.nz/programme/unruly-memories/
Canterbury Poets' Collective Lambing Season
They may be lambs, but these young Canterbury poets are shaking tales and getting noticed! The Canterbury Poets’ Collective brings you LAMBING SEASON, some of the best Canterbury poets under-25 to celebrate National Poetry Day this year.
Four guest poets – SARAH-KATE SIMONS, BEN O'CONNELL, ISLA HUIA, and LIZ AYREY – plus an OPEN MIC exclusively for our under-25s and MCed by current Ōtautahi slam champ CLAUDIA JARDINE!
Mark your calendar now. You don't want to miss this one.
Event Details: Entry cost $10 adult, $5 student, under 12s free. All proceeds go to help the Canterbury Poets’ Collective bring more poets and more poetry to more people. Audience: Recommended for Over 12s.
Date/Times: Fri 18 Aug 6.30pm-8.30pm
Location: Eastside Gallery, 388 Worcester St, Christchurch
Contact Details: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/cantypoet
Further info: Facebook Event address: https://www.facebook.com/events/1709513786164381
Naming the Sirens
Featuring four worldly women at WORD Christchurch 2023 – Jeni Curtis, Janet Wainscott, Marisa Cappetta and Gail Ingram – and their four new books from Sudden Valley Press. A show curated by Ockham NZ Book Award Winner, Joanna Preston. A chorus in poetry calling you, singing you, warning you, naming the joys, miseries and desires of women through time. Be warned. Be wooed. Be wowed.
Event Details: Free entry. All ages.
Date/Times: 6pm-7pm Thursday 24 Aug 2023
Location: TSB Space Tūranga, 60 Cathedral Square, Christchurch
More Info: http://wordchristchurch.co.nz/programme/naming-the-sirens
Timaru
Word Salad
Spoken Word Open Mic Night. Join us in the Aigantighe Art Gallery on National Poetry Day for all your poetry nutritional requirements. If you'd like to perform, register at the bookshop or at the event on the night - names will be pulled from the salad bowl on the night for performance order. Until then, make sure you're eating your poetry greens every day people!
Entry Details: Free. 16+ audience.
Date/Times: 6pm - 8pm, 25 August
Location:Aigantighe Gallery, Wai-iti Road, Timaru
Contact: info@timarubooksellers.co.nz
Further Info: https://www.facebook.com/timarubookshop>>
West Coast
Hokitika
SPEAK UP!
Come celebrate National Poetry Day with us!
Bring along a poem to read, one of your own or one by your favourite author, one that rhymes or one that doesn't, one you can sing, whisper or hum, all words are welcome, for the pleasure of our ears.
Entry Details: Free. Everyone’s welcome. Please book a ticket for every person attending (performing and non-performing). To book a ticket, go on our website: https://westlib.co.nz/what-s-on/
Date/Times: 5.30pm to 7pm
Location: Westland District Library, 20 Sewell Street, Hokitika 7810
Contact: Pauline Leclerc: Pauline.LeClerc@westlib.co.nz
Further Info: Facebook Westland District Library, or visit our website: westlib.co.nz
Grey District
Local Poets in Person: Prize-giving and Poetry Reading
Join the Grey District Library for an evening of poetry readings and light refreshment to celebrate the lead up to Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day. Hear entries from the Grey District Library Poetry Competition and announcement of the winners.
Entry details: Free.
Date/Time: Tuesday 22nd August, 2023, 5.30pm - 6.30pm
Location: Grey District Library, 18 Albert Mall, Greymouth.
Contact details: Rachael Flannagan rachael.flannagan@greydc.govt.nz or 03 768 5597
Further info: https://www.facebook.com/GreyDistrictLibrary/events
Local Poems on Tour
To celebrate Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day on Friday 25th August, 2023. Individual events will be held at two local rest homes to read Grey District Library Poetry Competition entries including the prize winning poems to residents.
Contact details: Rachael Flannagan rachael.flannagan@greydc.govt.nz or 03 768 5597
Further info: Closed event; open to rest home residents only.
Poems Live & Cool
Your favourite pink former church GLORIA OF GREYMOUTH is once again hosting a live poetry performance for National Poetry Day! Featuring readings from local poets: Trev Hayes (Punakaiki), Katrina Brown (Mawhera), Sam Duckor-Jones (Mawhera) & Jeffrey Paparoa Holman (Blackball), plus a selection of live lyric talent from Grey High!
Entry Details: Open to all, entry by koha
Date/Times: From 7pm, August 25th 2023
Location: Gloria of Greymouth, 77 Packers Quay, Blaketown, Mawhera-Greymouth
Contact: Sam Duckor-Jones s.duckorjones@gmail.com
Further Info: @gloria_of_greymouth on Instagram
Otago
Dunedin
Poetry on the Edge: A South Island Celebration
An evening of new poetry, new books, new voices! Poetry in dialogue with past voices, poetry exploring old themes through new means. Come hear poetry that seeks the edge in unexpected ways!
Featuring
New poetry: Victor Billot, Cilla McQueen, Emma Neale, Richard Reeve, plus young poets from local schools
New books: Megan Kitching, Robyn Maree Pickens, Rushi Vyas, Louise Wallace
Collaborative words & sounds: Claire Beynon, S J Mannion, Lola Elvy, Robert Sullivan, Sophia Wilson, Susan Wardell
2023 Otago/ Southland competition winners, selected by Robert Sullivan (adult) and Susan Wardell (youth)
Original compositions by jazz musician Bill Martin & 2023 Caselberg Trust Creative Connections Resident Alison Isadora
All welcome – come explore words and sounds at the edge with us! Sponsored by the NZSA Otago-Southland branch, Ōtepoti Dunedin City Library and UNESCO City of Literature.
Entry Details: BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL. Tickets: $10, available for purchase at Dunedin Public Libraries (03 474 3690 or library@dcc.govt.nz)
Ticket includes wine/beer/soft drinks and a selection of nibbles (please email library@dcc.govt.nz to advise of any dietary requirements when booking)
Date/Times: 25 August, 6-8pm / doors open 5.30pm
Location: Ōtepoti|Dunedin City Library, Dunningham Suite, 4th Floor
Contact: library@dcc.govt.nz to book and for more info
Further Info: https://www.dunedinlibraries.govt.nz/news-and-events/events-calendar#event=76825113;instance=20230825173000?popup=1
Poetry Readings by Jenny Powell, David Eggleton, Lola Elvy and David Kārena-Holmes
Four Dunedin poets read from their works. Dunedin artist David Mackenzie exhibits a small series of his paintings. M.C. is Dunedin writer/musician Bill Direen.
Entry Details: A free event but reservations are essential. Event open to all.RSVP to email address found on thehop.neocities.org.
Date/Times: Friday August 25th
Location: Mornington House of Poetry, Mornington
Contact: Bill Direen antispam: ten.xmg@meopeht(antispam_ please reverse email address)
Further Info: Facebook /thehopnz | Web address: thehop.neocities.org | Event Finder Listing : https://thehop.neocities.org/Readings