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
KATIKATI POETRY DAY 2025
Since its conception, Katikati dance teacher/writer Gaye Hemsley has organised a selection of events to celebrate the occasion.This year, she will be visiting the local primary school and rest home, holding ‘Having Fun with Poetry’ sessions.
You don’t have to be a poet to enjoy the day. All it takes is a love of verse, anything from traditional stanza to haiku, hip hop and beyond. Poetry day is for taking poetry off the page and out into the streets, the airwaves, business meetings or the hairdressers. So, wherever you happen to be on Poetry Day, just do it, recite or read a poem.
Date/Time: August 22nd, 11.30am
Location: The Arts Junction, 36 Main Road, Katikati
Contact: Gaye @ Christina Productions – gayehemsley@gmail.com
RHYMES & LYRICS 2025
Rhymes & Lyrics returns for another unforgettable night of spoken word, hip-hop, and lyrical brilliance.
Celebrating Aotearoa’s National Poetry Day, this showcase brings together bold voices from across Tauranga and beyond — fusing rhythm, poetry, R&B, and raw storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned fan of verse or just vibing with good music and real stories, this is the space where words come alive.
Entry Details: $10 per person. Limited tickets available at the door and online. Book here: https://www.theincubator.co.nz/event-details/what-are-words-worth-at-the-jam-factory
Dates/Times: Friday, 22 August 2025. Doors open: 7:00 PM, Show starts: 7:30 PM
Location: The Jam Factory, The Historic Village,159 17th Avenue, Tauranga
Contact: Email: dhaivatmehta7@gmail.com
VOICES UNLEASHED: AN OPEN MIC NIGHT
Entry Details: This is a free event, Pre-register by clicking here for a 5-minute slot – or just come along, be inspired, and if the vibe feels right, step up during our open floor session at the end. This event is for ages 16 and up – mature themes welcome.
Date/Times: Friday 22nd August 2025, 5.30pm-8pm
Location: Te Kōputu a te whanga a Toi. Whakatāne Library and Exhibition Centre
Contact: aimee.passau@whakatane.govt.nz