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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HIBISCUS COAST PUHOI NATIONAL POETRY DAY EVENT "POETRY IN THE PUB"!
Come along to the 15th year of Poetry in the Pub!
Readings of your own or others' poems, along with poetry-based fun, activities and raffles. A special "potluck" prize from among the poets who present an original poem.
Wine, coffee, beer and food available throughout the evening. All welcome, readers and listeners!
Where: Sugar Loaf Beach Bar, 38 Waiwera Road, Waiwera.
When: Thursday August 14th from 7.15 pm -9.15pm
Entry details: Koha welcome to contribute to expenses
Contact: Diane Newcombe 021483849 dianenewcombe@hotmail.com
POETRY DAY PRELUDE: SHORE WORDS
Join our poets Raewyn Alexander, whose work has been published world-wide and enjoyed for decades, award winning Auckland poet and author of several collections, Michael Stevens, and Amy Cotter, a graduate from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London as well as an accomplished spoken word poet who writes and acts for stage and film.
MC Stu Bagby will read a selection of poems by the late Kevin Ireland.
Entry Details: RSVP: takapunaevents@aucklandcouncil.govt.nzKoha appreciated
Date/Times: Wednesday 20 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.aspx | https://www.facebook.com/TakapunaLibrary/
BIRKENHEAD COLLEGE – POETRY SLAM
Entry Details: Free school event
Date/Times: Friday 22 August at lunchtime
Location: BC Library
Contact:
zel@birkenhead.school.nz (Mrs Elliott)
Further Info: See Mrs Elliott in the library any time!
RANDOM MUSINGS AFTER A FEW…
Entry Details: Free. Open to ages 18 and above.
Date/Times: 22 August, 6:30pm-7:30pm
Location: Birkenhead Library, 204 Hinemoa Street, Birkenhead
Contact: Birkenhead Library, bkhwrk.bkhwrk@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Further Info: https://www.facebook.com/birkenheadlibrary/ | https://events.humanitix.com/random-musings-after-a-few
OPEN MIC POETRY AFTERNOON - WHANGAPARĀOA LIBRARY
Come along for a cozy afternoon of poetry, self-expression and connection to celebrate National Poetry Day.
Whether you’re just starting out writing, want to read your favourite poem, or you’re a well seasoned poet, bring in some poetry to read aloud! Or simply sit back and listen to some poetry live.
After the open mic, stick around for a chill mingle with tea, coffee and conversation.
Entry Details: This free event is for teens and adults, ages 16 and up.
Date/Times: Friday 22 August 2025 from 4pm to 5pm.
Location: Whangaparāoa Library, 9 Main Street, Whangaparāoa, 0932. In the Pōhutukawa Room.
Contact: Whangaparāoa Library.
Further Info: www.facebook.com/events/1666323814032917
LET’S WRITE MICRO POETRY
We’re celebrating micro poetry at Orewa Library on National Poetry Day. These tiny poems, typically under 25 words, include free verse, rhyming verse and haiku. Often based on a single moment they tell a story by evoking strong images, emotions or a particular idea.
In this two-hour interactive workshop hosted by Orewa poet Sue Courtney (winner of Poetry on the Beach in 2022), we’ll read and discuss some exemplary examples, learn some micro poetry writing techniques, and write our own using prompts and props. Bring along pen and paper and a favourite micro poem to share.
Entry Details: Cost: Free, Open to adults.
Date/Times: Friday 22 August, 1pm – 3pm.
Location: Moana Meeting Room, Ōrewa Library, 12 Moana Avenue, Orewa.
Contact: Sandra Sinclair, sandra.sinclair@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Further Info: https://www.facebook.com/OrewaLibrary/, https://www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/pages/library.aspx?library=32
