Books Alive is a programme of large-scale, immersive events that bring hundreds of students in touch with finalist authors and illustrators in the weeks leading up to the annual New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults ceremony.

Programmed by literature experts, the engaging sessions for school groups are designed to drive a sense of belonging and relevance around books and reading for our tamariki and rangatahi.

In 2026 we’re delighted to be bringing our Books Alive events back to Christchurch and Wellington.

Christchurch – Thursday 13 August and Friday 14 August

Ōtautahi will host an exciting line-up of shortlisted authors and illustrators over two mornings, in association with our longtime collaborators WORD Christchurch:

• Thursday 13 August at Chisnallwood Intermediate School Hall,76-90 Breezes Road, Avondale, Christchurch 8061
• Friday 14 August at Hillmorton High School Hall, 31 Tankerville Road, Hoon Hay, Christchurch 8025

Both the Thursday and Friday sessions will begin at 10am, and will be aimed at primary and intermediate age groups.

Presenters for the Christchurch events will be confirmed and registrations will open once the 2026 NZCYA shortlist has been announced on Wednesday 10 June.

If you aren’t already on our schools database, email booksalive@nzbookawards.org.nz to make sure you get a note as soon as bookings open.

Wellington – Wednesday 19 August

Books Alive will be staging a takeover of Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui, Wellington's Central Library (56 Victoria Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011) on the day of the awards ceremony, Wednesday 19 August.

There will be sessions for upper primary, intermediate and secondary age groups, and school groups can attend for either morning sessions or afternoon sessions – or for the whole school day.

Schools can expect more than 20 finalist writers and illustrators to present at a wide range of sessions through the day.

Finalists who will be presenting at Wellington Books Alive events will be confirmed after the 2026 NZCYA shortlist has been revealed on Wednesday 10 June.

Schools can register their interest in attending Wellington Books Alive events by completing this quick online form, or by emailing booksalive@nzbookawards.org.nz.

Please note that while all Books Alive events are free, booking is essential.