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
LIGHT UP THE MIC! NATIONAL POETRY DAY AT GISBORNE LIBRARY
Gisborne, the first place to see the sun, now the first to shine with words! Join us for a family-friendly, heartwarming afternoon where stories come alive, and poetry finds its voice. Whether you're sharing your own verse or soaking in the rhythm of others, this is a celebration of creativity, connection, and community. Be part of something special. 🎤 Open mic – all welcome!
Entry Details: Free! Open to all ages.
Date/Time: Friday, August 22, 2025, 3-4pm
Location: HB Williams Memorial Library, 34 Bright Street, Gisborne
In celebration of Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day, we’re trading sunrise for stanzas and gumboots for good verse. Let your words rise with the sun — come light up the mic!
Contact: Sharlene Douglas-Huriwai sharlene.douglas-huriwai@gdc.govt.nz
FB event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Exn31GaDx/
Or find us on FB here: GisborneLibrary