Calendar of Events
CELEBRATING THE 2025 CALENDAR OF EVENTS!
More than 110 events unfolded nationwide — some small and intimate, others swelling to 200 voices — and everywhere the feeling crackled with energy. From city slams to rural rhyme nights, verse on soda cans to typewriters on the street, the line-up was a powerful testament to the vitality of poetry in Aotearoa.
Organisers and participants captured the mood best:
“It felt like this year had a lot of good energy … we thrive on collaboration and it felt like that was everywhere.”
“Wonderful to see so many events across the motu, including schools. It had a much higher profile this year with a huge number of events.”
And perhaps most fitting of all: “Can’t wait to do it again next year.”
We can’t wait either. The 2026 Calendar of Events will be revealed mid-year.
Event Filter
POETRY IN THE GALLERIES
This is a free event but registration is required via www.hamiltonbookmonth.com
Entry details: Suitable for those aged 14 years and over
Date/Time: Friday 22 August 12:30-3:00pm
Location: Waikato Museum, 1 Grantham St, Hamilton
Further details: Hamilton Book Month hamiltonbookmonth@gmail.com
Follow Hamilton Book Month on Facebook and Instagram
“Ko te kai a te Rangatira he kōrero”
The food of Chiefs is discussion - Whakataukī.
We will be running workshops with Hamilton Motif Finalists Luca and Sam as well as National Finalist Zemara and published poet Nadia for youth/rangatahi wanting to learn and grow in their art form from 1-3pm.
And then running an open mic from 3pm-4pm.
Entry details: There will be a koha entry. All welcome.
Date/Time: Friday 22nd August, 1pm to 4pm.
Location: Whatawhata Arts Collective
Nau Mai Haere Mai.
NGĀ ART POETRY SLAM
Join us for an electrifying evening of rhythm, expression, and raw emotion at the NGĀ ART Poetry Slam! Whether you're a seasoned poet, a first-time performer, or a passionate listener, this is your chance to connect, be heard, and celebrate the power of spoken word. Poets will take the stage to share original works, competing in a high-energy format where performance, passion, and creativity collide. Bring your truth, your voice, and your whānau for a night of inspiration and connection.
All ages and experience levels welcome – come to perform or just to soak up the vibes.
Entry Details: Performer Entry: Free (registration required), Audience Tickets: Koha / Pay what you can at the door
Date/Time: Friday 22 August 2025 Doors open 6pm
Location: NGĀ ART – 18 Herschel Street, Ngaruawahia
Contact: manager@ngaart.org.nz