Calendar of Events
WELCOME TO THE 2025 CALENDAR OF EVENTS!
With over 110 events confirmed across the motu — from city slams to rural rhyme nights — this year’s line-up is a powerful testament to the vitality of poetry in Aotearoa. It’s everywhere, and it’s more accessible than ever.
From verse on soda cans to typewriters on the street, hip hop gigs to inter-arts showcases, regional organisers have pulled out all the stops. There’s an inaugural Writers & Poets Festival in Kerikeri, a full week of celebrations in Invercargill — and so much more in between!
To help you find your nearest poetic fix, use the handy region tabs (below and left) to explore what’s happening near you — or venture further afield. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or a curious newcomer, this is your invitation to be part of something big.
On Friday 22 August, let’s come together to celebrate the power of poetry — and watch it shine across the country!
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FAREHAM CREATIVE SPACE – SODA CAN POETRY
Perfect your small poem with the help of a critique, stamp it on a soda can, and see your work both exhibited locally and bound into the Soda Can Book!
Entry details: 7 years to 99. $40 per person. Please register by August 8th
Date/time: Saturday August 16th 1pm till 4pm
Location: 80 Underhill Rd, Featherston. Fareham Creative Space
Contact: admin@farehamcreativespace.nz
Further info: Facebook Fareham Creative Space
IT’S RAINING HENS! MARTINBOROUGH BOOKSHOP
It's raining hens! Fiona Kidman, Mary McCallum and Madeleine Slavick will read their Wairarapa poems and talk about the people and places (and chickens) behind them.
Entry Details: $10.00 includes a glass of wine and light refreshments
Date/Times: August 22nd from 5:00 - 7:00pm
Location: 6 Kitchener Street, Martinborough
More information: Tickets are available from the bookshop