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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FAREHAM CREATIVE SPACE – SODA CAN POETRY
Take a small poem, perfect it with the help of critique, and hammer it onto a soda can, and be published in the Soda Can Poetry book. Poetry will be displayed at Mrs Hopes Second Chance Emporium.
RSVP with your poem by August 10 to receive helpful critique.
Contact: Fareham Creative Space, 80 Underhill Road, Featherston
IT’S RAINING HENS! MARTINBOROUGH BOOKSHOP
It's raining hens! Fiona Kidman, Mary McCallum and Madeleine Slavick will read their Wairarapa poems and talk about the people and places (and chickens) behind them.
Entry Details: $10.00 includes a glass of wine and light refreshments
Date/Times: August 22nd from 5:00 - 7:00pm
Location: 6 Kitchener Street, Martinborough
More information: Tickets are available from the bookshop