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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!

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LOCAL POETS IN PERSON: PRIZE-GIVING AND POETRY READING

Grey District Poetry Reading poster.jpgJoin the Grey District Library for an evening of poetry readings and light refreshment to celebrate the lead up to Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day. Hear entries from the Grey District Library Poetry Competition and announcement of the winners.

Entry details: Free. Open to all, no booking required.

Date/Time: Wednesday 20 August 2025, 5.30pm - 6.30pm

Location: Grey District Library, 18 Albert Mall, Greymouth.

Contact: Rachael Flannagan rachael.flannagan@greydc.govt.nz or 03 768 5597

Further info: Facebook event

GLORIA OF GREYMOUTH – SHARE-A-THON SALON

Gloria of Greymouth Poetry Share-a-Thon poster.pngOur night will begin with the wholesome act of communal silent reading. Browse the bookshelves at Gloria of Greymouth or bring along your own beloved collections.

Later in the evening you will be invited to read aloud to the room any treasures you have found - or just lie back & enjoy being read to.

Gloria's extensive wardrobe will also be made available for folks who require silk robes / fur coats at their literary salons.

Entry details: This event is open to the public and free of charge.

Date/Times: Friday 22 August 2025 | 7.00 – 9.00pm

Location: Gloria of Greymouth, 77 Packers Quay

Contact: Sam Duckor-Jones, s.duckorjones@gmail.com

Further information: instagram @gloria_of_greymouth

WESTLAND DISTRICT LIBRARY - AN EVENING OF SPOKEN WORD

Westland District Library An evening of Spoken Words event poster.pngCelebrate National Poetry Day with us! Bring a poem to read; one of your own or one of your favourite authors, one that rhymes or one that doesn't, one you can sing, whisper or hum, all words are welcome, for the pleasure of our ears. No registration needed, family friendly event.

Entry: Free

Date/Times: Friday 22nd August from 5.30pm to 7pm

Location: Westland District Library, 20 Sewell Street, Hokitika 7810

Contact: Pauline.LeClerc@westlib.co.nz

MAKE A POETRY ZINE

Grey District Youth Trust Poetry Zine poster.pngThe Grey District Youth Trust & Left Bank Art Gallery bring you "Make a Poetry Zine!" Come along to the Left Bank Art Gallery between 11am and 2pm, and get creative with materials and prompts supplied, to create your very own DIY Poetry Zine.

Writing and drawing materials, magazines, paper, prompts, words... will all be supplied, and you can bring along your own poems and materials, too. So get down to the gallery and Unleash the Power of Poetry!

Entry Details: Free. All ages

Date/Times: Saturday 23rd August, 11am to 2pm

Location: Left Bank Art Gallery, 1 Tainui Street, Greymouth

Contact: Katrina@greydistrictyouthtrust.com

Further Info: www.greydistrictyouthtrust.com