The National Library of New Zealand has extended the position of New Zealand Poet Laureate from a two-year tenure to a three-year term.
Chris Tse currently holds the position.
In making the decision, the National Library sought views from previous Laureates including David Eggleton, who felt three years allows the Laureate to really make a difference and put their own stamp on the role.
The value of the Poet Laureate Award becomes $150,000 over three years.
One of Hawke’s Bay’s most respected artists, carver Phil Belcher has died.
He is being remembered for his incredible dedication to Māori arts and culture, as well as his love for helping his local community.
He was a “staunch advocate” for Toi Māori and was incredibly passionate about the environment.
He worked on several key projects relating to Waimārama.
Critically acclaimed journalist and author Rebecca Macfie has been appointed as the 2024 JD Stout Fellow by The Stout Research Centre for New Zealand Studies at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
During her time as Fellow Rebecca’s research will focus on the capacity of grassroots and community organisations to disrupt the harms of poverty.
Dolina Wehipeihana and Tama Waipara have this week been appointed Festival Co-Directors at Tāwhiri, the creative force behind the The Aotearoa New Zealand Festival, Wellington Jazz Festival and other events.
They start their Co-Director roles in June, replacing Marnie Karmelita and Director Ngā Toi Māori Mere Boynton.
Meanwhile in Otautahi, Word Christchurch have announced two new Programmers-at-Large.
Poet Tayi Tibble and writer Jordan Tricklebank.
Tricklebank is best known as Jordan from Māori Lit Blog, an influential online publication and Instagram account which champions Maori writing.
The Word festival opens on the 27th of August.
