Former TVNZ Presenter Sonya Wilson Transitions to Acclaimed Author

Sonya Wilson, a former TVNZ presenter and reporter, has successfully transitioned from broadcast journalism to authorship and charitable work. With over twenty years of experience in the industry, where she reported for programs such as *One News*, *Breakfast*, *20/20*, and *Sunday*, Wilson has carved a new path as a writer and charity founder.

After completing a Master of Creative Writing at the University of Auckland, Wilson published her debut novel, Spark Hunter, an adventure-fantasy book aimed at readers aged ten and older. Set against the stunning backdrop of Fiordland National Park, the novel has resonated with audiences, becoming a bestseller. In 2022, it was honored with the NZSA Best First Book Award during the New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults, in addition to receiving a Storylines Notable Book Award.

Wilson’s literary journey did not stop there; the sequel to Spark Hunter, titled The Secret Green, is set to be published in July 2025 by Allen & Unwin. This follow-up promises to continue the enchanting narrative that has captured the hearts of young readers.

Alongside her fiction work, Wilson is also an accomplished writer of creative non-fiction, essays, and reviews. Her passion for storytelling extends beyond the page as she actively participates in the literary community. She engages with audiences through talks, workshops, and by chairing sessions at writers’ festivals, merging her background in journalism with her love for literature.

Wilson’s commitment to fostering a love of reading in children is evident in her founding of Kiwi Christmas Books, a charity dedicated to gifting brand new books to children in need. Her belief in the transformative power of literature to inspire empathy and wonder drives her charitable initiatives.

Originally hailing from the Deep South of New Zealand, Wilson currently resides in Auckland with her husband, Pete, their two sons, a cat named Graham, and a dog named Dusky. Her multifaceted career reflects a deep commitment to both storytelling and community enrichment, showcasing her as a dynamic figure in contemporary New Zealand literature.