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Competition Calendar

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Across the motu, competitions bloomed — from nationwide contests to local treasures — inviting poets of all ages and stages to put pen to paper. Some drew hundreds of entries, others unearthed hidden gems in schools, libraries, and community halls, but together they showcased the remarkable breadth of talent in Aotearoa.

Watch this space: The first 2026 competitions will begin appearing once registrations are complete and entries are open.

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GREY DISTRICT LIBRARY POETRY COMPETITION

Grey District Library Poetry Competition poster.jpg Join fellow poetry lovers in a competition to celebrate Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day, 2025. The writer of the most engaging poem within each age category will win a prize. Winners will be announced at a Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day event hosted by the Grey District Library on Wednesday 20 August and prize winning poems will be read aloud at two local rest homes.

Entry details: Free. Open to Grey District residents only. Age categories are up to 8 years old; 9 to 13; 14 to 17; and 18 years and over. Poems can be on any topic. One poem per person. Submit your poem, age range, address and contact details by email to poetrycompetition@greydc.govt.nz no later than 4pm Friday 15 August, 2025.

Submission dates: Poetry Competition open from Monday 28 July to 4pm Friday 15 August 2025. Prize giving and poetry readings on Wednesday 20 August 2025.

Contact details: Rachael Flannagan rachael.flannagan@greydc.govt.nz

Further info: Facebook event