New Zealand’s Literary Landscape in 2025: Triumphs Amid Challenges

The literary scene in New Zealand faced significant turbulence in 2025, highlighted by the closure of seven bookstores and funding challenges for key literary institutions. Despite these setbacks, the year also showcased a remarkable resilience among writers and readers, culminating in the annual ReadingRoom literary awards, which celebrated outstanding contributions to the field.

New Zealand witnessed the closure of several beloved literary hubs, with Randell Cottage losing its funding and Sargeson Fellowship losing its historic premises in Auckland. The situation was further compounded by the demolition of a notable literary site where Robin Hyde crafted some of her most enduring works. This loss symbolized the precarious state of the literary infrastructure, but within this context, New Zealand writers continued to produce compelling works and engage with audiences.

At the Tauranga Arts Festival, artistic manager Megan Brown voiced concerns about the ongoing funding crisis affecting the arts sector. “We’ve all got rising costs, and the pool of money is getting smaller and smaller,” she noted in an interview. Despite these challenges, the festival announced its transition to an annual event, reflecting a growing demand for literary activities across the country. Events in Auckland, Christchurch, and Queenstown attracted enthusiastic audiences, demonstrating a vibrant literary culture.

While the infrastructure faced challenges, the literary output remained strong. Authors such as Catherine Chidgey and former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern released popular titles that resonated with readers. Chidgey’s book, The Book of Guilt, won the accolade for best work of fiction at the ReadingRoom awards, though it faced criticism for its similarities to Kazuo Ishiguro‘s work. Despite this, the success of various authors showcased a thriving commercial fiction market, with works from Josie Shapiro, Zoe Rankin, and Jennifer Trevelyan contributing to a golden year for the genre.

The literary community also celebrated significant achievements, such as the publication of Rosemary Baird‘s oral history, The Middle of Nowhere, which received the award for best book. This work provided an engaging insight into the experiences of those involved in the Manapōuri hydro project during the 1960s, further enriching the cultural landscape.

Amidst these successes, 2025 was not without its disappointments. The year saw a dearth of innovative fiction, with a prevailing middle-class orthodoxy stifling creativity. This reality was starkly contrasted by the enduring impact of classic literature, as evidenced by the resurgence of Ronald Hugh Morrieson’s posthumous novel, Pallet On The Floor, which captivated readers with its unique portrayal of rural New Zealand life.

The Auckland University Press emerged as a standout publisher, delivering a range of impactful titles throughout the year. Its commitment to quality literature included significant biographies and historical texts that enriched the national narrative. The press’s achievements, alongside the efforts of other publishers like Penguin, highlighted a collective effort to sustain the industry’s vitality despite financial pressures.

In the realm of literary accolades, Niamh Vaughan won the prestigious Adam award for her poignant memoir, The Hierophant, shedding light on the challenges of dealing with familial conspiracy theories. Her work, along with exceptional contributions from emerging writers, underscored the dynamic nature of contemporary New Zealand literature.

The year concluded with a series of engaging literary festivals, with the Queenstown Literary Festival standing out for its intimate atmosphere and compelling programming. The festival featured significant discussions, including a session with author Damien Wilkins, whose reading left a profound impact on attendees.

As New Zealand literature navigates the complexities of 2025, the community’s ability to adapt and innovate remains evident. The resilience of writers, publishers, and readers ensures that, despite the challenges, New Zealand literature continues to thrive and evolve. The upcoming year promises further opportunities for growth and creativity, reinforcing the importance of this vibrant cultural landscape.