New Zealand literature has a character like no other. The country’s relative isolation means that, although themes similar to other postcolonial nations have slipped in, there is a quality about New Zealand writing which is wholly unique.

Kiwi writers aren’t afraid to speak their minds and broaden the minds of others: whether in the prophetic, powerful poetry of James K. Baxter, the rich prose of Keri Hulme, the haunting modern myths of Witi Ihimaera or the searing, lyrically honest autobiographies by Janet Frame.

The landscapes, the rich storytelling tradition of the Maori and the country’s love of individuality and creativity have combined to produce a wonderfully diverse range of books and authors.

Did you know?

Witi Ihimaera wrote Whale Rider in a three-week burst in 1987, inspired by his daughter’s complaints that he took her to movies with only male heroes.