Nomination deadline for new Poet Laureate

Nominations for one of the most prestigious honours in New Zealand literature, the post of New Zealand Poet Laureate are due at the National Library by June 17. The Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon Nathan Guy will announce the appointment in July.

The Award runs for two years and provides the Laureate with $40,000 per year. The Laureate also receives assistance from the National Library with a programme of poetry-related events and technical support to enable the Laureate to create an online presence.

The Poet Laureate is selected on the basis of being an accomplished and highly-regarded poet who has made an outstanding contribution to New Zealand poetry. Past Laureates include Bill Manhire, Hone Tuwhare, Elizabeth Smither, Brian Turner, Jenny Bornholdt and Michele Leggott. The current Laureate is Cilla McQueen.

The Library is inviting the poetry reading, writing and publishing communities to express their opinions about who deserves to hold the prestigious post.

Nomination forms can be obtained at www.natlib.govt.nz/poetlaureate on the National Library’s website.

Nominations can be e-mailed to deborah.debbage@dia.govt.nz or posted to the National Library of New Zealand, Poet Laureate Award, PO Box 1467, Wellington 6140.