The Auckland Writers Festival has launched its 2025 programme, promising an ambitious and wide-ranging celebration of books and ideas.

Running from 13 to 18 May in the heart of Auckland, this year’s event features more than 170 events and will welcome over 220 writers and thinkers from New Zealand and around the world.

For 26 years, this beloved festival has connected readers with storytellers.

Festival Director Lyndsey Fineran says 2025’s line-up reflects the team’s passion for creating dynamic and creative experiences for audiences.

“I’m so proud to reveal this year’s ambitious, wide-ranging and creative line-up,” she says. Last year’s festival broke attendance records, with more than 85,000 visitors, and book sales increased by 50% on the previous year.

The 2025 programme offers something for everyone—literary heavyweights, emerging voices, global commentators, and innovative experiences.

Coasties keen on fiction can look forward to appearances from Colm Tóibín, David Nicholls, and Rumaan Alam, while crime enthusiasts won’t want to miss Sir Ian Rankin and Chris Whitaker.

Catherine Chidgey will present her highly anticipated novel The Book of Guilt, and this year’s Jann Medlicott Acorn Prize for Fiction winner will make their first appearance just days after the awards ceremony.

For those interested in world affairs, The New York Times’ Edward Wong, philosopher A.C. Grayling, and journalist Anna Fifield will tackle global and local issues in panel discussions such as “How Tyrants Fall” and “Te Tiriti: Where to From Here?”.

The festival isn’t all serious talk—there are lively events like creating A Waiata in an Hour with Anika Moa, and The Book Factory, where visitors can help publish a book by hand in Aotea Square.

Spoken word poet Lemn Sissay will return with his inspiring morning performance Let the Light Pour In.

Even kids are covered with Pukapuka Adventures, a free programme offering readings and workshops for young readers, and a special gala night featuring Andy Griffiths and Jessica Townsend.

With free events like Kōrero Corner and Streetside, plus ticketed headline sessions, there’s a full week of inspiration ahead.

Coasties heading into the city can expect a vibrant literary celebration right on our doorstep.

For full event details and tickets, visit the Auckland Writers Festival website.

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