Skip to main content
Category

News

Nov 03 2025
Love0

Whitireia Publishing Course Secured: PANZ Announces 2026 Intake

By News, Whitireia Publishing

The Publishers Association of New Zealand / Te Rau o Tākupu (PANZ) is delighted to announce that it will assume responsibility for the Whitireia Publishing Course – New Zealand’s only full-time, industry-led publishing qualification – from 2026 and will welcome a capped intake of 20 students for next year.

This decision was a response to the closure of the programme by Whitireia/WelTec, announced earlier this year and follows a PANZ Council vote to formalise a partnership with Whitireia, ensuring the continuation of the Graduate Diploma in Publishing (Applied) and related Microcredentials and preserving a vital pathway into the New Zealand publishing industry.

PANZ President Eboni Waitere says the move represents a significant commitment to workforce development and industry sustainability:

“This course has been a puna mātauranga – a spring of knowledge – nurturing skilled graduates who are already shaping our industry. PANZ is proud to invest in this talent, ensuing a vibrant future workforce. From editing and project management to publishing, marketing and sales, our graduates’ skills make a remarkable impact across sectors.”

Under the new arrangement, PANZ will take on operational responsibility for the course while Whitireia retains NZQA accreditation and student enrolment processes. This continuity allows students to benefit from the course’s unique blend of practical experience, industry placements, and intensive mentorship.

Senior tutor Odessa Owens says the 2026 cohort will be limited to twenty students in order to strengthen the experience of ākonga:

“We are thrilled to work even more closely with publishers to prepare students for a rapidly evolving industry. Our hands-on apprenticeship style programme gives ākonga real practical experience and industry contacts.”

Odessa says students will work directly with publishers, editors, designers, booksellers, and authors to bring real books to life.

Benefits to Industry and Students

By taking a leadership role in the course, PANZ will:

  • Ensure a secure talent pipeline, with skilled graduates entering the workforce each year.
  • Strengthen industry networks through collaboration between publishers, tutors, and students.
  • Support diversity and Te Tiriti commitments, including continuation of the Penguin Random House Māori and Pacific Scholarship.
  • Offer members access to interns, placements, and projects that build sector capability.
  • Generate sustainable revenue to reinvest in advocacy and member services

Enrolments

Places for the 2026 intake will be limited to 20 students and subject to a minimum number of 15 enrolments and NZQA site accreditation. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their interest early to avoid missing out.

For enrolment enquiries, visit here.

 

Whitireia Publishing Course – FAQ

What is the Whitireia Publishing Course?

The Whitireia Publishing Course is New Zealand’s only full-time, industry-led qualification in publishing. Running for over 30 years, it has produced graduates who work across trade, educational, legal, and government publishing, as well as communications and media.

Why was there a risk it would close?

Whitireia signalled it could no longer run the course on its own due to space and delivery constraints. Without industry intervention, the course would have faced closure — leaving a significant skills gap in New Zealand publishing.

Who is now running it?

The Publishers Association of New Zealand (PANZ) will take on operational leadership, including employing tutors, arranging a Wellington site to run the course, and leading promotion. Whitireia will retain NZQA accreditation and enrolment processes.

How many students can enrol?

The 2026 intake is capped at 20 students.

What makes this course unique?

  • Hands-on, apprenticeship-style learning
  • Two work placements for each student in real publishing environments, and three internships per year
  • Two scholarships (Mason Publishing Scholarship and Penguin Random House Māori and Pacific Publishing Scholarship) and two industry-sponsored awards
  • Mentoring from industry professionals
  • Projects where students take real manuscripts from pitch to publication
  • Strong employment outcomes – graduates are in demand across the sector. On average, over recent years at least 75% of graduates are in publishing or publishing-adjacent work within 6 months of graduation.

What are the benefits for industry?

  • A secure and diverse talent pipeline
  • Strengthened whanaungatanga across the sector

How do people apply?

Enrolments are managed through Whitireia’s website. Students can submit enquiries now and apply directly once the enrolments page reopens. Register your interest via: https://www.whitireiaweltec.ac.nz/study-programmes/creativity/creative-writing-and-publishing/graduate-diploma-in-publishing-applied

*NZQA and TEC approval processes are being completed before direct enrolments can open fully.

Who can speak to media about this announcement?

PANZ Council members Michael Upchurch (michael.upchurch@tepapa.govt.nz) and Graeme Cosslett (graeme.cosslett@nzcer.org.nz) are the primary spokespeople. Course tutors Odessa Owens and Theresa Crewdson available to comment on programme delivery and student experience (publishing@whitireia.ac.nz).

Social Media Tiles are available for download here.

 

Oct 25 2025
Love0

Backing local: Strengthening education through NZ publishing

By News

PANZ calls for increased government support and the strategic development of New Zealand’s local education publishing sector to improve literacy and curriculum outcomes

 

Tēnā koe

The Publishers Association of New Zealand (PANZ) / Te Rau o Tākupu represents over 80 publishers across trade, education, academic, and specialist sectors. Our education publishing members are more than 20 strong, see brief snapshot appended for a sample of our breadth and depth. We develop high-quality, curriculum-aligned resources for Aotearoa’s learners, supporting literacy, curriculum subjects, cultural identity, and equitable access to knowledge across English and Māori-medium settings.

2024 Data highlights – NZ Publishing is a local asset with global reach

  • $282m – Total value of NZ’s publishing industry in 2024
  • $34m – Revenue from education publishing, 83% from locally developed content
  • 36% – Education publishing export share (Australia, Asia, US)
  • 325,000 – Te reo Māori books sold (1.8% of total unit sales)

…and yet as a country we grapple with

  • 1 in 4 New Zealand adults (25%) having low literacy skills
  • less than half of Year 8 students meeting expected reading levels
  • considerable disparities in school library provision across Aotearoa

There is considerable opportunity for the NZ publishing industry to be more fully utilised, supported and sought after for the innovation and partnership we offer. We seek to be engaged in the ‘Going for growth’ strategy, to be a part of unlocking New Zealand’s potential.

The support we’re asking for

  1. Develop a national education publishing strategy

Alongside the 20+ education publishing members of PANZ, the Ministry of Education is itself the largest publisher in the country. Yet there is no overarching strategy that is visible to NZ publishers to guide this significant public investment. A coherent, forward-looking publishing strategy would ensure long-term investment in local content, capability, and infrastructure. It would also support curriculum implementation and embed equity by ensuring Aotearoa-specific and te ao Māori content reaches all learners.

  1. Ensure publisher representation on education panels

To ensure resources are fit-for-purpose, local publishers must be at the table on panels shaping curriculum, AI in education, copyright frameworks, and Māori Medium policy. Publishers bring expertise in pedagogy, production, and intellectual property. This is critical to evidence-based and forward-looking decision-making.

  1. Commit to fair, open procurement processes

Recent closed tenders have favoured offshore providers, undermining much of the local sector and bypassing fair competition with the majority of a $30m investment going offshore. Open, well-planned procurement allows NZ publishers to deliver high-quality, culturally relevant content without the pressure of crisis-driven timelines. We seek greater transparency and planning that recognises the time required for quality publishing. NZ publishers want to be part of Going for Growth, unlocking New Zealand’s potential.

  1. Strengthen cross-government engagement with PANZ

PANZ should be routinely engaged across government on decisions involving education, content creation, publishing, IP, and export of education resources. Whether it’s curriculum design, the ethical use of AI in learning, copyright reform, or the treatment of local authors and creators, our sector brings practical expertise and systems knowledge. Consistent input helps ensure decisions are realistic, inclusive, and future-ready.

  1. Invest in a long-term pipeline of work for NZ publishers

Sporadic projects and short lead times limit what local publishers can sustainably deliver. A long-term, curriculum-aligned pipeline would enable investment in talent, innovation, and content development. With change ahead such as the proposed changes to NCEA, and further curriculum resources the opportunity to engage is now.

PANZ is passionate about inspiring a nation of readers, lifting literacy, and supporting every child’s right to a relevant, engaging education. We welcome the opportunity to meet and discuss these proposals in more detail. Together, we can strengthen education outcomes and ensure New Zealand learners benefit from high-quality, locally developed resources.

Eboni Waitere
President

Publishers Association of New Zealand, Te Rau ō Takupu

Appendix – snapshot of Education Publishers in Aotearoa NZ

Sep 07 2025
Love0

NZ Book Sector Unites to Drive Growth, Protect Copyright and Increase Local and Global Visibility

By News

The New Zealand book publishing sector comprising author, illustrator, publisher, bookseller, writer festival, copyright, library, reader and educator representatives have joined forces for the first time, committing to increase the visibility and sales of books by local authors as a priority.

The show of unity, summarised in Mahi Tahi Work Together: A Strategic Plan for the Aotearoa New Zealand Book Sector 2025 – 2030 highlights goals and action areas that will drive growth, sustainability, and greater local and international recognition of New Zealand’s literary works.

Chair of the Coalition for NZ Books Melanie Laville-Moore says local novelists such as Catherine Chidgey, Nicky Pellegrino, Charity Norman, Jenny Pattrick and Witi Ihimaera have shifted the dial on public demand for NZ adult fiction titles.

‘Despite the current economic and social headwinds facing all retail sectors, Domestic publishing revenue grew by 5% in 2024, with a slight 2.4% increase in revenue also generated in 2023 compared to the year prior*. Local book lovers are reading more novels written by NZ writers than ever before, across all genre: crime, contemporary, historical and literary fiction. The ‘cultural cringe’ days where Kiwis shied away from reading books written by their own are gone.

‘One of the aims of collaborating as a sector is to capitalise on the hunger Kiwis are showing for stories by and about ourselves.’

Laville-Moore says Mahi Tahi aligns with the Government’s Amplify: Creative and Cultural Strategy for New Zealand (2024–2030), outlining priority areas that require government support.

‘The sector wants to work with government to modernize the Copyright Act and the Public Lending Right Act to protect and value intellectual property in the digital age, addressing risks such as AI misuse and copyright infringement.

‘Books and literature need to have a dedicated literary funding stream within Creative New Zealand ensuring equity with other creative sectors. And we want books and writers to be included in cultural diplomacy efforts internationally, to grow export revenue for the literary arts.

‘A unified approach to government regarding these significant opportunities for the sector signals our collective intent,’ says Ms Laville-Moore.

The coalition also confirms increased sales of educational and children’s books as a priority. Unit sales of educational books, or those titles destined for early childhood, primary and secondary institutions, after a 22% decrease in 2023, recorded a small gain of 4% in the past year*.

‘The positive impacts of reading at home and at school on student literacy performance are well established. Studies like PISA demonstrate that reading for enjoyment is associated with higher literacy achievement**. This suggests a correlation between declining literacy rates and declining sales of books for students and children. As a unified sector, we can work alongside government to address the longtime trend of declining literacy rates. There is huge potential there.’

‘By working together, we can ensure the book sector in Aotearoa New Zealand continues to thrive, enriched by diverse local voices and fostering a strong reading culture,’ says Ms Laville-Moore.

* Publishers Association of New Zealand Market Size Report 2024

**Reading for pleasure for the collective good of Aotearoa New Zealand | National Library of New Zealand

Access Mahi Tahi Work Together: A Strategic Plan for the Aotearoa New Zealand Book Sector 2025 – 2030 below

More information can be found here.

 

Aug 11 2025
Love0

Eboni Waitere makes history as first Māori President of PANZ

By News

Eboni Waitere (Ngāti Kahungunu, Rangitāne) has made history as the first Māori President of the Publishers Association of New Zealand Te Rau o Tākupu (PANZ), following her appointment at the organisation’s 49th Annual General Meeting.

Highlighting the strength of Māori leadership at the highest levels of the sector, this milestone marks an important shift in Aotearoa’s publishing landscape.

“I’m genuinely thrilled that Eboni is stepping into the role of PANZ President. She brings strategic excellence, mana, unwavering integrity, and a lived understanding of the power of publishing to shape culture,” says Courtney Sina Meredith, PANZ Association Director. “Eboni’s leadership is courageous, considered, and grounded in a vision that reflects the richness and diversity of Aotearoa. I can’t wait to work alongside her as we continue to grow and advocate for a sector that holds our stories at its heart.”

Eboni is Executive Director of HUIA Publishers, which under her leadership won the prestigious 2024 Bologna Prize for Best Children’s Publisher of the Year (Oceania) – international recognition for their bold, rangatahi-focused publishing and unwavering commitment to Te Reo Māori and Māori creatives.

Over the past decade Eboni has helped shape HUIA into a respected name in publishing worldwide with a focus on growing talent, elevating Māori voices, and forging partnerships that centre equity and excellence.

Now, as PANZ President, she’s bringing that same vision to the wider sector.

“I am excited to be of service back to the publishing community,” Eboni says. “We have an extraordinary depth of talent across Aotearoa, and I believe New Zealand’s trade and education publishers are world-class. We’re already exporting stories, voices, and ideas globally – my vision is to build on that foundation through collective strength, collaboration, and bold, strategic action,”

Eboni is known for her kaupapa-driven leadership style. She holds a degree in Education and Māori from Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington and is a 2024 graduate of the Advanced Publishing Institute at New York University. She leads HUIA alongside co-director Panaia Tahau-Hodges (Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Tūtemohuta, Tūhoe), and together they are committed to nurturing the next generation of Māori storytellers.

“Literacy rates and our education space are priorities for me,” says Eboni. “Valuing our local content and seeing our stories is important. New Zealand is an international leader in educational resources, we need to reignite that – through stronger investment and cross-sector collaboration.”

Eboni also believes the publishing industry has a critical opportunity to help shape a copyright framework that truly reflects Aotearoa.

“In the age of artificial intelligence, laws must protect creators, uphold indigenous rights, and enable fair access in a digital world. This is a chance to create copyright settings that are future focused, a system that values mātauranga Māori, supports local publishers, and ensures the voices of our storytellers are protected and respected.”

Jul 24 2025
Love0

Bookseller’s Business Acumen Rewarded with a Top Industry Prize

By News

 

The Martinborough Books & Post has won the Ugly Hill Press Bookshop of the Year at the 2025 Aotearoa New Zealand Book Industry Awards for all round excellence and successfully diversifying its store offering to secure its future.

The award was presented to the store’s owner manager Brenda Channer at a gala dinner ceremony emceed by Mike McRoberts held in the AUT Atrium, Auckland on Saturday 19 July.

The prize was among 14 honours presented to booksellers, publishers and book trade stalwarts for excellence, success and innovation in work carried out in the industry between April 2024 and March 2025.

The judges said The Martinborough Books & Post demonstrated strong evidence of changed practice to a more sustainable retail model with great results.

‘Martinborough Books & Post is an exceptional provincial bookstore, skilfully curating a selection of books and services to a vast community. Its inclusion of a mixed revenue stream, with postal integration, has created a more resilient business model to weather future change and it’s rebranding has cemented its position in the local market.’

Tasty by Chelsea Winter published by Allen & Unwin Aotearoa New Zealand has taken out the Nielsen BookData NZ Award for the bestselling New Zealand title.

 

HarperCollins Aotearoa New Zealand has won the Nielsen IQ BookData NZ Publisher of the year.

 

The judges said HarperCollins’ range of books and their bold publishing initiatives gave them the edge.

‘HarperCollins’ list had real depth and breadth this year. It’s market growth leveraged as opposed to depended on overseas titles; and its cultural commitment is noticeable, demonstrated by the publication of much-deserved Ockham 2025 General Non-Fiction Award winner Hine Toa: A story of bravery by Ngāhuia te Awekotuku. HarperCollins’ shift to a New Zealand-based managing editor has made a big difference,’ said the judges.

 

The Sales Professional of the Year Award was won by Ross Lorimer of Archetype Book Agents.

 

The judges said Ross Lorimer was an exceptional talent; an experienced sales person who maintains the energy levels of someone fresh to the industry.

‘Ross’s skill at tailoring book offerings to each store’s market with knowledge built up over many years is second-to-none, and his familiarity of new titles, using data to back up recommendations, is legendary.’

The Marketing and Publicity Strategy of the Year Award has gone to Penguin Random House New Zealand for their campaign to launch The Bookshop Detectives: Dead Girl Gone.

 

The judges agreed that the marketing of The Bookshop Detectives was faultless.

‘Penguin Random House’s campaign to launch the first The Bookshop Detectives title was very ambitious and it achieved all its objectives, doing so with great verve and originality. The Instagram campaign was fun and immersive, and the launch party was brilliant. The book didn’t seem to be a natural bestseller but the marketing really got this across the line.

‘We loved the publisher’s determination to see the book succeed.’

The ‘cosy crime’ novel The Bookstore Detectives: Dead Girl Gone, written by and loosely based on the lives of actual bookstore owners Louise Ward and Gareth Ward of Wardini Books in Hawke’s Bay, also won the Booksellers’ Choice Adult Award.

 

Mid-grade fantasy adventure novel The Grimmelings by Rachael King published by Allen & Unwin Aotearoa New Zealand took out the Hayden + Rollett Booksellers Choice Children’s Book Award.

 

The two titles were decided in a vote by the booksellers of Aotearoa as the books they’ll always keep on the shelf, that are considered modern classics, and are loved by customers and booksellers.

The Publishing Trailblazer of the Year Award went to Jasmine Sargent (Ngāti Porou), editor at Te Herenga Waka University Press.

 

The judges said Jasmine stood out in a very strong field of contenders for her intense and concentrated editing work, and her commitment towards Māori literature.

‘In the six years of her role as editor, Jasmine has demonstrated incredible tenacity and an ambition to give more. She has carved out an important cultural role, providing a safe harbour, and caring for her authors – many of whom gave her their deep thanks.

‘She has made a real impact as a Māori editor of Māori writing.’

Mandy Myles of online retailer Bookety Book Books has won the Titlepage Bookselling Trailblazer of the year.

 

The judges commented that Mandy’s initiative, smart thinking and sheer hard work saw her stand out from the other very worthy contenders.

‘Mandy has made some bold business decisions that have paid off. She has consciously, and self-reflectively, learned to work smarter not harder as a crucial lesson for long-term success. She has skilfully procured sponsorship and strategically beneficial partnerships, and her marketing and programming skills are among the best in the industry.’

Simon and Schuster’s audiobook Return to Blood by Michael Bennett narrated by Miriama McDowell has won the Libro.fm Audiobook of the Year Award. An honourable mention was given to Penguin Random House New Zealand’s audio adaptation of The Bone People by Keri Hulme.

The judges said listening to the six audiobooks nominated this year was truly a pleasure.

‘Each title offered a surprise, from production to narration, to the calibre of the content. But it was Michael Bennett’s Return to Blood narrated by Miriama McDowell that swept the competition. From the crystal-clear production to the captivating prose, captured perfectly by superstar narrator McDowell, there was never any doubt who should win,’ they said.

Karen Ferns has been honoured with the Publishers Association of NZ Lifetime Achievement Award. Ms Ferns is respected across the industry for her strategic focus, unremitting commitment to NZ authors, and determination to maximise sales for the publishers she has worked for over many years in leadership roles which include Penguin Random House NZ and HarperCollins Aotearoa New Zealand.

Bruce McKenzie of Bruce McKenzie Books in Palmerston North, an outstanding general bookseller whose career spans over 65 years in the book trade; Jo McColl, who has one of the longest institutional memories of bookselling in Aotearoa and has been instrumental in building and shaping the internationally recognised and award-winning Unity as its co-founder; and Tony Moores of Poppies Howick who is retiring this year after extensive experience across the trade in bookselling, publishing and governance, making him one of the most storied booksellers have received Booksellers Association of Aotearoa New Zealand Lifetime Achievement Awards.

Booksellers Aotearoa New Zealand (BSANZ) association manager Renee Rowland says she is delighted for each of this year’s winners in what has been a challenging year for booksellers.

‘Booksellers, like most retailers, are impacted by the incredibly challenging retail environment across the motu. The winners and finalists celebrated this evening have shown excellence and encourage amongst their peers by lifting bar, demonstrating best practice and pivoting strategically in response to their markets.

‘To survive, let alone thrive in this environment requires hard work, innovation and a lot of creativity. Huge congratulations to all the worthy winners,’ says Ms Rowland.

Publishers Association of New Zealand (PANZ) director Courtney Sina-Meredith commends the determination and innovation shown by each of this year’s recipients.

‘These award winners are among the very many significant achievers in an industry that understands what it takes to publish, sell and promote winning books.

‘By listening to the market, and nurturing this country’s diverse writing talent, we continue to build a thriving Aotearoa New Zealand literature. Congratulations to you all,’ says Ms Sina-Meredith.

The 2025 Aotearoa New Zealand Book Industry Awards were judged by Anna Burkey (Australia Reads) and Steve Braunias (author and literary editor, Newsroom), joined by Anita Kingston, last year’s winner of the Book Retailer of the Year award in judging the Publisher awards, and Kevin Chapman (Upstart Press) in judging the bookseller awards.

BSANZ and PANZ sincerely thanks this year’s award sponsors and funders for their generous support.

The Aotearoa New Zealand Book Industry Awards have been recognising the best New Zealand publishers, booksellers and industry stalwarts connecting Aotearoa books and readers for more than 20 years.

Oct 11 2024
Love0

Robust and Resilient Indies Celebrate their role as Community Hubs on Aotearoa New Zealand Bookshop Day

By News

Independent book shops across the motu will celebrate their pivotal roles as community hubs with fanfare events on Aotearoa New Zealand Bookshop Day Saturday 12 October as they continue to trade strongly in a tough retail environment.

Bookstore sales volumes increased by three percent in August on the month prior according to Nielsen BookData. This compares with an increase of just 0.2 percent in New Zealand retail sales overall for the same period, following decreased activity over the previous six months*.

In addition, Booksellers Aotearoa New Zealand (BSANZ) membership is growing, with four new bookshops joining in the last three months.

BSANZ association manager Renee Rowland says the fact that physical bookstores are holding firm and increasing in number is largely due to their role in communities as places that bring people together.

“Independent bookstores are community and cultural powerhouses.

“They are much more than just a retail space. Bookstores enrich the cultural lives of communities. They are helping to keep retail in high streets alive, promoting a positive sense of place and bringing foot traffic to town centres – many of which are struggling.

“Bookstores provide an array of activities and events that reach across generations, bridge rural urban and online communities, help to combat social isolation and loneliness, and support the needs of diverse and sometimes historically marginalised groups,” she says.

A recent BSANZ Pulse Survey found 80 percent of its members held at least one public event a month, with one third of respondents holding more than 20 events a year. These events, curated according to the needs of the community, include book clubs, author talks, book launches across a wide variety of genre, poetry readings, and panel debates on issues of the day.

All booksellers in the survey said they supported community groups and organisations with fundraising, donations and volunteering efforts.

Further evidence of the health of physical bookstores is highlighted in the NZ Publishing Market Size Report (2023) commissioned by the NZ Publishers Association (PANZ). It showed physical bookstores returned a flat trading result, while there was an overall value drop in the NZ book publishing industry’s net book sales of 3.7% against 2022.

“Given the overall drop in value and units sold across the NZ publishing industry in 2023, the fact that physical bookstores are holding firm speaks to the resilience of the local sector,” says PANZ director Courtney Sina Meredith.

Ms Rowland adds that independent bookstore owners go out of their way to create welcoming and safe spaces for all.

“Booksellers are match makers of sorts, skilled at curating events and offering book titles according to the wishes of their communities. They’re nimble and innovative.

“Much of the work undertaken by independent bookshops is at a small scale but collectively it is extremely powerful. These stores, run by hardworking and enthusiastic community-minded people are hubs of activity with a ripple effect of increased social cohesion and positive impacts on attendees’ intellectual and emotional health,” says Ms Rowland.

Physical bookstores account for an average of 64% of all print sales annually in New Zealand.

* Source: https://www.interest.co.nz/business/129699/electronic-card-spending-rose-august-first-time-seven-months-statistics-nz-says

Sep 17 2024
Love0

Applications for the CLNZ 2024 Contestable Fund Grants are now open

By News

Copyright Licensing New Zealand (CLNZ) is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2024 round of Contestable Fund Grants. We have $75,000 available to support strategic projects that demonstrate New Zealand publishing sector growth. The Contestable Fund Grants are made possible through the CLNZ Cultural Fund.

Applications are invited for projects that have clearly defined and measurable project outcomes, including projects that:

  • Develop the professional skills of writers, including those who write for an education audience.
  • Seek to grow export markets for New Zealand published content.
  • Demonstrate innovation in the creation and distribution of NZ published content.
  • Diverse content that encourages Māori, Pacifica and other minority and ethnic groups to submit within New Zealand Aotearoa.
  • Use online platforms to enhance the profile of New Zealand publishing and/or published content, including to international/export markets.

The amount applicants can apply for depends on the project, with the number of successful recipients varying each year depending on the individual merits of the applications received. In 2023, there were 15 successful recipients.

Successful 2022 grant recipient Damien Levi said:

“The grant helped not only to produce our first book ‘Spoiled Fruit: Queer Poetry from Aotearoa’ which was the original goal, but has managed to help me kickstart a

micro-press (Āporo Press) and add new voices to the publishing landscape in Aotearoa.”

Read the full interview with Damien Levi about why to apply for a Contestable Fund grant here.

Applications must be made online and submitted before 4pm Friday 11 October 2024. For more information, and to apply visit the CLNZ Contestable Fund Grants webpage.

Questions about the application process can be sent to awards@copyright.co.nz.

Aug 07 2024
Love0

Topp Twins Memoir Wins Book of the Year Award

By News

 

Untouchable Girls: The Topp Twins Story by Jools and Lynda Topp has taken out the Nielsen BookData NZ Award for the bestselling New Zealand title at the 2024 Aotearoa New Zealand Book Industry Awards.

 The prize was presented to The Topp Twins in person at a gala dinner ceremony emceed by Paddy Gower held at the Crowne Plaza, Auckland on Saturday evening.

 The book’s publisher, Allen and Unwin NZ, won the Marketing and Publicity Strategy of the Year Award for the campaign that took the Topps to the top.

 The judges say the team at Allen & Unwin rose to the occasion with their innovative campaign promoting The Topp Twins’ Untouchable Girls.

 “The marketing and publicity strategy is the critical point where all the effort culminates. Fun, clever, eye-catching, and measurable, book lovers were captivated by every aspect of this outstanding campaign,” say the judges.

 The awards were among 15 honours presented to booksellers, publishers and book trade stalwarts for excellence, success and innovation in work carried out in the industry between April 2023 and March 2024.

Atlas: The Story of Pa Salt by Lucinda Riley and Harry Whittaker (Pan MacMillan) won the Nielsen BookData NZ International Bestseller Award. 

 Petronella’s Bookstore in Tekapo and The Booklover Bookstore in Milford, Auckland jointly won Nielsen BookData NZ Bookshop of the Year.

 The judges say they were impressed with all entries in this category which reflected the strategy and effort that sits behind selling books. 

 “The decision was difficult, but ultimately Petronella’s and The Booklover share the award for their business success, place in the community, inviting stores and for their outstanding knowledge of their respective markets,” say the judges.

Moa Press won the Nielsen BookData NZ Publisher of the Year.

 The judges say Moa Press demonstrated how nimble a small and innovative publisher can be.

 “Moa Press impressed us with the range of material it seeks and how open it is to submissions, while also being very clear about what is needed to get a text across the line. Established in 2022, Moa Press has already brought several bestselling and diverse titles to the market – opening doors for local authors with books that stores enjoy selling,” say the judges.

BookHub, a new website that makes it easier for consumers to buy books from independent bookstores, took out the Innovation Award. 

The judges say they were absolutely thrilled to recognise the efforts and the success of BookHub and look forward to its immense ongoing value to Aotearoa’s publishing industry. 

“It seems so simple: one platform to rule online sale space in an ethical way that supports local booksellers? And yet we know how much work it has taken to craft BookHub, surely one of the most exciting and impactful advances in bookselling at least in the last decade,” say the judges.

Penguin Random House New Zealand’s audiobook Māori Made Easy by Scotty Morrison won the inaugural Libro.fm Audiobook of the Year Award.

“Māori Made Easy is an exemplar of audiobook production and it has been one of the bestselling audiobooks in Aotearoa NZ since it was released. It demonstrates, in spades, the value of this book medium when it comes to learning a language,” say the judges.

Penguin Random House New Zealand won the Mana Māori Award.

 “The mahi of this year’s Mana Māori winner has had a lasting influence on the book industry, finding new readers and celebrating old ones. The launch of their seven-month campaign last year was a timely celebration of a literary Kaumatua whose pioneering books and prose have been impactful for Māori, for Pakeha, and for readers and writers around the world,” say the judges.

 Fungi of Aotearoa New Zealand by Liv Sisson (Penguin Random House NZ) and The Observologist by Giselle Clarkson (Gecko Press) were announced the joint Booksellers’ Choice Winners.

The two titles won in a vote by booksellers across the motu as the local titles they most enjoyed selling. 

Mike Hill and Susan Holmes, the founders of sales and distribution agency BookReps, won the industry’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

 From humble beginnings in 1996, when the duo literally started the business with one book sold from the back of car with a handwritten invoice, BookReps has grown to become one of the most respected book agencies in the country.

The Sales Professional of the Year Award was jointly won by HarperCollins NZ sales and marketing coordinator Laura Jager and Penguin Random House NZ sales representative Paula Pengelly.

 “We are thrilled to present this award to Laura and Paula, two highly deserving individuals. Both have demonstrated an impressive depth of knowledge, a remarkable willingness to tackle and overcome challenges, and have earned immense respect from their colleagues,” say the judges.

 The Emerging Bookseller of the Year Award was won by Melissa Oliver of Unity Books Wellington.

 “Melissa was a clear standout among a group of standouts. We were so impressed by what she is doing to foster community and support local writers and publishers,” say the judges.

 The Emerging Publisher of the Year Award went to Grace Wang, campaign manager at Allen and Unwin NZ.

 “The work of the individual publisher is often invisible but their choices, their processes and their instincts are crucial to an expansive industry. The judges were deeply impressed by Grace Wang’s passion and the potential shown in her impressive application,” say the judges.

 The Paper Plus Book Retailer of the Year Award was presented to Gisborne Paper Plus. 

 The judges say that Gisborne’s Paper Plus demonstrated an understanding of community, and how books and associated material has a role to play in unifying a population. 

 “Being part of a national chain is not a guarantee for success, particularly in Gisborne which has been disrupted significantly in the past year and a half. Gisborne Paper Plus has cemented its place as a de-facto community hub as well as a great place to buy books,” say the judges.

 Booksellers Aotearoa New Zealand association manager Renee Rowland says she is delighted for each of this year’s winners in what has been a challenging year for booksellers.

“Booksellers, like most retailers, are impacted by the softening in sales across the motu. The winners celebrated this evening have all pushed the boat out, working extremely hard, as all our bookseller members do, to ensure success now and in the future. On behalf of the association, I thank and salute you all,” says Ms Rowland.

 Publishers Association of New Zealand president Graeme Cosslett says he could not be more proud of the innovation and hard work demonstrated by each of this year’s winners.

 “These award winners are among the very many significant achievers in an industry that understands what it takes to publish and sell winning books. Each year I think book production values can’t get any better, that we can’t possibly find authors that will outsell the last best books, but we do.

 “By being laser focused on the market, and nurturing the immense writing talent we have here in New Zealand, we go one better each year. Huge congratulations to you all,” says Mr Cosslett.

 The 2024 Aotearoa New Zealand Book Industry Awards were judged by Libro.fm co-founder Nick Johnson; The Spinoff book’s editor and author Claire Mabey; and poet, creative non-fiction author and academic Richard Pamatatau.

 The Aotearoa New Zealand Book Industry Awards have been recognising the best New Zealand publishers, booksellers and industry stalwarts who have been connecting Aotearoa books and readers for over 20 years.

 ENDS

 Access winners’ images here

Jul 10 2024
Love0

Launch of audiobooks platform in NZ offers significant opportunities for local bookstores and publishers

By News

Global audiobooks platform Libro.fm has launched in New Zealand and is set to be a major disruptor in an industry that is seeing year-on-year double digit growth.

The Seattle-based social purpose corporation is the only audiobook e-tailer in the world that directly supports local bookstores, with consumers given an option to select a local bookstore of their choice to receive a commission from every Libro.fm audiobook purchased.

Nick Johnson, a co-founder of Seattle-based audiobooks social enterprise Libro.fm is in NZ this month.

Libro.fm co-founder Nick Johnson is in New Zealand this month meeting with booksellers and publishers.

Mr Johnson says the idea of partnering with bookstores has been an integral part of Libro.fm’s business from the get-go.

“As avowed readers, we knew the model we created had to be friendly to independent bookstores. We’ve seen 21 percent growth in audiobook sales in the last financial year and we’ve been able to increase the amount we share with bookstores.

“Over the last five years, revenue from audiobooks has more than doubled, making it the fastest growing book market globally.

“This is great for bookstores for two reasons. Firstly, the bookstore selected by Libro.fm buyers receives up to 30% commission on every audiobook sold. Secondly, we do not see the sales of audiobooks cutting into the physical book market. People read audiobooks at times when they wouldn’t be reading physical books, like when they are commuting, doing housework, or walking the dog.

“Libro.fm is growing the market for book sales overall,” says Mr Johnson.

Launched 10 years ago in the US and Canada, Libro.fm’s international launch gives consumers in the UK, Australia and New Zealand access to more than 450,000 audiobooks.

“Around 99% of new releases are available to audiobooks’ consumers on Libro.fm,” says Mr Johnson.

Booksellers Aotearoa New Zealand association manager Renee Rowland welcomes Libro.fm’s introduction to the local market.

“We’re thrilled Libro.fm is here and showing interest in New Zealand. As a ‘support local’ enterprise, Libro.fm is a significant and viable alternative to purchasing audiobooks from faceless global conglomerates.

“These mega-corporates currently have 70 percent of NZs audiobook market share. It is in all of our best interests to pull this right back, and instead give business to Libro.fm.

“With its bookstore commission model, large range and competitive pricing, buying from Libro.fm is a win-win for everyone,” says Ms Rowland.

There are already 40 independent bookstores across the motu signed up with Libro.fm.

“We anticipate that the number of bookstores registered with Libro.fm increase significantly by the end of Nick’s visit. Given that there is no charge to a bookseller for doing so, joining is a no-brainer,” says Ms Rowland.

Publishers Association of New Zealand (PANZ) president Claire Murdoch says Libro.fm’s launch here is a significant opportunity for local publishers.

“It’s expensive to produce audiobooks for NZ titles. We are a small market, so in order for our local authors’ books to succeed, we need to maximise the platform’s economies of scale.

“Making local audiobooks visible – so buyers here and overseas can find them – is absolutely central to this. We know our authors’ books are as good, if not better, than those of large countries, but they need to be seen to be bought in the quantities that make this medium cost effective.

“As a smart and nimble social enterprise, Libro.fm has the ability to offer this visibility for our audiobooks. We’re really excited about that,” says Ms Murdoch.

Independent research carried out by PANZ corroborates with Libro.fm’s assessment that audiobooks do not cut into the physical market. It found commuters were the biggest audiobook buyers; leaving their hands free to drive while listening to a book, or multitasking if taking public transport.

The research found that self-help, business and language learning (particularly te reo Māori) were the most popular genres in audiobooks in New Zealand, in addition to fiction titles.

Penguin Random House New Zealand (PRHNZ) is the biggest publisher of audiobooks in New Zealand, with 30 titles published in two years.

PRHNZs publisher Grace Thomas says the audiobook is their fastest growing book format, so Libro.fm’s launch into the local market is timely.

“We’re keen to work with Libro to amplify our fantastic local authors’ books in this format. There’s huge potential.

“We are finding that books that do well as E-books tend to do well in audio. And audiobooks are growing audiences for books overall, with sales skewing to men under 45 years of age. The core demographic for print books is women over the age of 50,” says Ms Thomas.

She agrees with Ms Murdoch that the biggest hurdle for local audio titles is distribution at scale.

“PRHNZ, like most local publishers, has drawn from the Ministry of Culture and Heritage’s audio fund, administered by PANZ, to produce audio books for the market.

“Costs vary for each book, but generally include narration, broadcast quality sound recording and editing. We hope that Libro.fm can become a key player in this market, offering greater visibility of our books so that we can produce more in this genre more profitably. It’s a win – win – win – win for authors, audiobook listeners, publishers and our local booksellers,” says Ms Thomas.

Nick Johnson will present the inaugural Libro.fm Audiobook Award for best local audiobook at the NZ Book Industry Awards to be held at the Crowne Plaza, Auckland from 6pm on Saturday 3 August.

He will be meeting with booksellers and publishers in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland and is available for media interviews.

Jun 11 2024
Love0

Allen & Unwin NZ announces Children’s List and new Publishing Director

By News

Allen & Unwin New Zealand is delighted to announce the newly created role of Publisher at Large for Jenny Hellen who is handing over her role as Publishing Director to Michelle Hurley. Jenny will continue to publish some of her bestselling authors such as Chelsea Winter, Ruth Shaw, Lotta Dann and Doug Gold and will also build up Allen & Unwin’s children’s list. Jenny published Mat Tait’s extraordinary Te Wehenga, which was the Margaret Mahy Book of the Year in the 2023 NZ Book Awards for Children and Young Adults, and this year The Grimmelings by Rachael King, Five Wee Pūteketeke by Nicola Toki and Jo Pearson, and the forthcoming The Raven’s Eye Runaways by Claire Mabey. Allen & Unwin NZ is also the new sponsor of Storylines Tessa Duder YA Award and Jenny is publishing the winner Kiri Lightfoot’s Bear in 2025 as well as one of the shortlisted titles, Hannah Marshall’s It’s A Bit More Complicated Than That.

Michelle Hurley, the publisher of hugely successful titles such as Salad by the Two Raw Sisters, Bella by Annabel Langbein, The Last Secret Agent by Pippa Latour with Jude Dobson, I Am Autistic and This is ADHD by Chanelle Moriah, Everything is Beautiful and Everything Hurts by Josie Shapiro and Whakawhetai: Gratitude by Hira Nathan is promoted to the role of Publishing Director.

Allen & Unwin NZ Managing Director Melanie Laville-Moore says, ‘This is an exciting time for Allen & Unwin New Zealand. We have ambitious children’s publishing plans and are thrilled that the outstanding Jenny Hellen will be driving the development of this list, alongside her bestselling adult titles. Over the last 10 years, Jenny has transformed our New Zealand non-fiction publishing and will now provide the same magic to books for younger readers. We’re delighted that this leads to a well-deserved promotion for Michelle Hurley to the role of Publishing Director. In her five years with Allen & Unwin, Michelle has demonstrated strong commercial nous with a slew of bestselling titles across many genres including cookbooks, memoir and, most recently, fiction. Under her leadership, our publishing programmes remain in safe and clever hands.’

Allen & Unwin NZ’s new Publisher at Large Jenny Hellen says, ‘I am thrilled to be able to pass on the role of Publishing Director to Michelle Hurley, who is a brilliant publisher and someone who will be able to lead our team to even greater heights. I’m really excited about my new role, delighted to be able to work with some of my ongoing authors, and very much looking forward to working in children’s publishing, which has long been one of my passions.’

New Publishing Director Michelle Hurley says, ‘After five years of working alongside the incomparable Jenny Hellen, I’m delighted to take on this new challenge, and even happier that Jenny will lead our spearhead into children’s publishing. Together, alongside publisher Tess Nichol, we aim to continue the remarkable growth we’ve seen from the many bestselling books Allen & Unwin NZ has published over the past several years.’