The Nelson Arts Festival is back with a rich programme of 58 events across 11 days of unmissable arts experiences for and with Whakatū: 20 – 30 October 2022
Find the full programme on their website: nelsonartsfestival.nz
Pukapuka Talks
We’re proud to feature a star-studded line up – plus some of the most exciting new literary talent in Aotearoa – in this year’s Pukapuka Talks.
Prolific writers Catherine Chidgey, Elizabeth Knox, Wendyl Nissen, Charity Norman, and Renée are joined by the authors of some of this year’s most talked about debut books: Rebecca Hawkes, Rebecca K Reilly, Qiane Matata-Sipu and Noelle McCarthy. We welcome four of the finalists in this year’s Ockham New Zealand Book Awards, including Whiti Hereaka who won the top fiction prize for her astonishing novel, Kurangaituku.
In her book, Wawata, Hinemoa Elder takes us on a tour through the 30 days and nights of our lunar cycle guided by Hina, the Māori moon goddess. Explore how we can work together to protect our whenua, when Kim Hill questions some of the country’s leading thinkers and writers on climate change. And hear from one of the world’s most distinguished journalists on cults, Anke Richter, talking about her extensive investigation into two of the most notorious present and former 'high-control groups' in Aotearoa, Gloriavale and Centrepoint.
Join us in welcoming to the stage some of Te Tauihu’s own literary legends, including Becky Manawatu, Christine Leunens, Robbie Burton and Nicola Galloway. For laughs (and some lifesaving tips), don’t miss Penny Ashton quizzing Nicky Pellegrino and Niki Bezzant about menopause while film buffs will love hearing how Michael Bennett and Christine Leunens have adapted their latest books for the screen.
All books will be on sale through our festival bookstore Page & Blackmore, both through their shop and at their stall at our Pukapuka Talks events. Most authors will be available for book signings after their sessions.
