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!
Event Filter
Illuminated Horizons is not just a show, it's an experience, a part of Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day - hosted by MC Allana Goldsmith - an immersive Wordcore showcase where words, sound, and visuals interweave to explore identity, ancestry, and transformation. Five creative trios - composed of writers, musicians, and visual artists - present original inter-arts performances shaped through deep collaboration and shared vision. Feautirng Wordcore bands Mono Watt, Still Thinking, Moebus Orchestra and Demi Urges.
Five Trios: unique performances, crafted by:
- David Eggleton, Richard Wallis & Ronald Andreassend
- Lex Shoemark, Luani Nansen & Noah Brown
- Em Berry, Janina Nana Yaa & Rose Freeborn
- Club Ruby (Jade Lewis, Hon Manawangphiphat) & Sally Louise
- Paris Whitehead, Paul McLaney & Martin Sercombe
This is not just a show, we also invite you to an immersive installation and exhibition after the show from 9 pm - Late - meet the artists and immerse yourself in impact storytelling. Interactive elements include Hebe Kearney's Blackout Poetry Installation.
This is an ambitious fusion of artforms that aims to give you a unforgettable Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day - bold, collaborative, and emotionally resonant. Step inside and see what happens when creative minds truly connect.
Entry Details: Tickets are $21 from https://events.humanitix.com/illuminated-horizons
Dates/Times:Friday 22 August, 7pm till late
Location: Te Puna Creative Hub, Henderson
Further information: www.wordcorenz.blogspot.com | @wordcore_wayfinders | #IlluminatedHorizons
WORDS FROM THE NGĀHERE
All welcome—no poetry experience needed, just curiosity and fun.
When: Sat 16th Aug – Workshop | Friday 22th Aug- Display
Where:Arataki Visitor Centre, 300 Scenic Drive, Oratia, Waitakere 0604
Contact: Emma Hinton, emma@thelightlibrary.com
KIDS POETRY DAY
Join local children's poets Elena de Roo, Annelies Judson and Melinda Szymanik for an afternoon of children's poetry fun! There will be a range of poetry-related craft activities, including mini-zines, poetry colouring sheets, and a chance to write your own poems. At 1.45 there will be poetry performances, including two students from Tirimoana School.
Cap off the afternoon at 2.30pm with the launch of Annelies Judson’s delightful new rhyming picture book, Turkey Hurly-Burly!
Entry: Free. Especially suitable for children aged 5-12, but we invite all ages!
Date/Time: Saturday 23rd August, 1pm- 2.30
Location: Te Atatū Peninsula Library and Community Centre, 595 Te Atatu Road
Contact: Annelies Judson, annelies.judson.writer@gmail.com
Further info: https://www.facebook.com/share/16YNZV9N6p/