Ōtepoti Dunedin is a truly inspiring place for writers and readers, with a plethora of bookshops, publishers and writing groups and a year-round calendar of literary events. Here are some highlights.
There’s lots more information, including an up-to-date events calendar, on the Dunedin City of Literature website.
Dunedin UNESCO City of Literature
Provide an amazing online guide to what’s available and what’s on. Sponsor local literary events and opportunities and foster connections between community groups. Maintain relationships with other UNESCO Cities of Literature and bring overseas writers here for residencies, readings and author talks.
Octagon Poetry Collective
A poetry reading on the second Wednesday of every month with diverse featured guests plus open mic for everyone from newbies to famous names. Relaxed, supportive vibe. Many people come just to listen.
NZ Society of Authors Otago/Southland Branch
The local branch of the national authors’ union. Hosts regular literary salons, plus readings for National Poetry Day, National Flash Fiction Day and more.
Ōtepoti Dunedin Poetry Circle
A weekly gathering of poets and poetry lovers to sit and share poems and chat about them. Every Friday evening at Dunedin City Library. Facilitated by poet and Home Sweet Dunedin host Jackson.
Dunedin Athenaeum & Mechanics Institute
Subscription library, reading room, and event venue. Hosts performances and writing workshops. Established in 1851!
Dunedin Public Libraries
Wonderful range of books and other media, including a number of special collections. Comprehensive calendar of book groups and other community events. The top floor of the City Library is a well-appointed event venue often used for book launches.
Dunedin Writers & Readers Festival
Two-yearly gathering of bookish folks, and occasional events at other times. Attracts large audiences to hear well-known authors.
NZ Young Writers Fest
Annual long weekend of workshops, panels, readings and performances for and by, but not limited to, writers aged 15 to 35. Includes the Otago Poetry Slam.
Dunedin Fringe Festival
Annual showcase of comedy, theatre (including Shakespeare in the Park, always fun), music, visual art and more.
University Book Shop
Supports local authors and publishers and hosts their book launches.
Dead Souls Bookshop
Hocken Collections, University of Otago Library
A reference-only research library, archive and gallery. Has a large collection of material relating to the histories, cultures and natural environments of Aotearoa, the Pacific and Antarctica. Open to the public.
Robert Burns statue & Dunedin Writers Walk
Overlooking the Octagon at the centre of town (yes, Dunedin’s main plaza is octagonal!) there’s a statue of the Scottish national bard, Robert Burns, to celebrate Dunedin’s strong Scottish heritage. It’s surrounded by plaques in memory of famous writers who lived here.
Ōtepoti Dunedin hosts many other events, including a festival of nature and an international science festival, both of which include literary speakers and workshops, plus an arts festival, a heritage festival, several film festivals and various academic conferences.
There are also community cultural celebrations—Māori, Pasifika, Chinese, Indian, Scottish and more—plus live music (everything from classical to hardcore noise) and a number of theatres. There’s so much going on, no-one can keep up.