Calendar of Events
WELCOME TO THE 2026 NATIONAL POETRY DAY CALENDAR OF EVENTS!
National Poetry Day 2026 brought poetry to communities across Aotearoa, with events for every kind of poetry lover.
From intimate workshops and library lock-ins to street poetry, spoken word, exhibitions and community celebrations, organisers found their own ways to celebrate poetry on Friday 28 August.
Browse the regions below to discover the events that took place across Aotearoa for National Poetry Day 2026.
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POETRY DAY PRELUDE: SHORE WORDS
Join our poets Nicholas Reid, whose work and reviews have appeared in a range of publications, Sheryl Coyle who began standup comedy in her 70s, and making a return visit to our poetry night, Amy Marguerite whose debut poetry collection has met with wide acclaim. Along with MC Stu Bagby.
Entry: Koha appreciated
Date/Times: Wednesday 26 August | 6pm - 7.30pm.
Light refreshments from 6pm, event starts at 6.30pm
Location: Level 1, Takapuna Library, 9 The Strand, Takapuna, 0740
RSVP: takapunaevents@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Contact: Jenny Cole, jen.cole09@gmail.com
Further Info: https://www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Pages/news-and-blogs.aspx
“POETRY IN THE PUB”
Entry: Koha to contribute to prizes and expenses is appreciated.
Date/Times: Thursday 27 August 2026 | 7.15pm - 9.15pm
Location: Sugarloaf Bar, 38 Waiwera Rd, Waiwera
Book here: Please contact Pauline on 021899326 or paulinevella@gmail.com
DEVONPORT LIBRARY: POSSE OF POETS
A posse of poets includes readings of poetry from local poets and poetry groups.
Entry: Koha/Donation
Date/Times: Friday 28 August | 7.00pm
Location: Devonport Library, Victoria Road, Devonport
EAST COAST BAYS LIBRARY - ALL AGES OPEN MIC
National Poetry Day is your chance to share your love of poetry with others. Come and celebrate with us and share your own poem or favourite poetry in this free and welcoming open mic event for everyone. Put your name on the list now to get a spot at the mic stand, or come along to listen to live readings at this all-ages event.
Entry: Free
Date/Times: Friday 28 August | 3.30pm - 5.00pm
Location: East Coast Bays Library, 8 Bute Road, Browns Bay, Auckland
Book here: https://events.humanitix.com/national-poetry-day-open-mic