Grant Robertson Shines at Queenstown Writers Festival 2025

The seventh annual Queenstown Writers Festival concluded this weekend, showcasing a vibrant celebration of literature and culture in the heart of New Zealand. The event attracted a record audience and reached a memorable climax on Sunday afternoon with a captivating appearance by Grant Robertson, New Zealand’s Minister of Finance and a prominent figure in the Labour Party. His event not only sold out but also had a volunteer team scrambling to secure additional seating to accommodate the enthusiastic crowd.

Robertson spoke about his political memoir, Anything Could Happen, which resonated with attendees eager to engage with his journey. Fans eagerly purchased copies, necessitating quick trips to the local airport bookstore for extra stock. His popularity may seem surprising in an area typically aligned with the National Party, yet Queenstown has its own distinct political landscape, leaning towards Labour despite the current National MP Joseph Mooney representing the surrounding countryside.

Festival Highlights and Atmosphere

The festival was held primarily at the Te Atamira arts space in Remarkables Park, which locals have hailed as a significant asset for the community. It served as a hub for creativity, drawing in a diverse group of writers and literary enthusiasts. Over the course of the weekend, approximately 1,500 tickets were sold, transforming the precinct into a dynamic literary salon.

The opening event featured a panel of writers discussing their favourite books. Notable authors, including Damien Wilkins, participated, setting a lively tone for the festival. Attendees mingled over delightful refreshments generously provided by local sponsors, enjoying cheese from Whitestone Cheese, wines from Two Paddocks, and beers from Altitude Brewery.

On Friday night, the gala evening showcased six speakers, including crime writer Liam McIlvanney, whose rallying call for writers inspired many. His passionate words about the dedication required in literature left a lasting impression on the audience.

Engaging Discussions and Personal Insights

Robertson’s session, chaired by Debbie Jamieson, transcended conventional political discourse, focusing more on personal narratives. He shared poignant experiences from his youth, including a challenging moment when he arrived drunk at a party only to find a sign that read “NO POOFTERS.” He also recounted the emotional toll of visiting his father in prison, revealing how these experiences shaped his moral courage.

The festival provided a platform for candid conversations, including a session with Wilkins that struck a deep chord with the audience. He spoke movingly about his novel Delirious, which delves into the struggles of a retired couple facing dementia and loss. During his reading, the audience was captivated, with many visibly moved by the emotional weight of his words.

In addition to Robertson and Wilkins, the festival featured a tribute to the late Brian Turner, where speakers shared personal anecdotes and celebrated his literary legacy.

The weekend concluded with a sense of community and shared passion for literature. Attendees left with a renewed appreciation for storytelling and the connections it fosters. Robertson’s presence, alongside other esteemed authors, reinforced the festival’s significance as a cultural touchstone in Queenstown.

Overall, the Queenstown Writers Festival not only celebrated literature but also highlighted the importance of community engagement in the arts. It was a weekend filled with inspiration, heartfelt conversations, and a shared commitment to fostering creativity in New Zealand.