Calendar of Events

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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!



WAIUKU LIBRARY OPEN MIC NIGHT

Poetry Open Mic Waiuku.pngIn preparation for Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day (August 22), we warmly invite you to attend a free open mic event at Waiuku Library. If you would like to read, please bring along a poem (or a few!) either written by you or a favourite poet. If writing and/or reading poetry isn’t your thing, do feel free to just come along and listen!

Entry details: Free. Open to all ages. No experience required.

Date/time: Monday 11 August, 6pm – 7.30pm

Location: 10 King Street Waiuku

Contact: franklinoutreach@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Further info: https://www.facebook.com/waiukulibrary/


PUKEKOHE LIBRARY OPEN MIC NIGHT

Poetry Open Mic Pukekohe.pngIn preparation for Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day (August 22), we warmly invite you to attend a free open mic event at Pukekohe Library. If you would like to read, please bring along a poem (or a few!) either written by you or a favourite poet. If writing and/or reading poetry isn’t your thing, do feel free to just come along and listen!

Entry details: Free. Open to all ages. No experience required.

Date/Time: Friday 15 August, 6pm – 7.30pm

Location: 12 Massey Avenue Pukekohe

Contact: franklinoutreach@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Further info: https://www.facebook.com/pukekohelibrary