We Read Auckland returns with free author events and writing workshops

We Read Auckland, Auckland Council Libraries’ free month-long festival celebrating authors and readers of Tāmaki Makaurau, returns this August!

This year’s festival brings together book lovers with a brand-new Bestie Collection featuring 14 exciting new book titles, engaging author talks, and writing workshops hosted at libraries across the region.

Councillor Angela Dalton, Chair of the Community Committee, says the return of We Read Auckland is cause for celebration.

“The literary spirit of Auckland truly shines through this festival,” said Councillor Dalton.

“We Read Auckland is about celebrating the books that reflect who we are and where we’ve come from. It’s a way to recognise our diverse voices and stories, and to share the connections that bring us together through reading.”

Each of the 14 titles will be available from 1 August at all 56 Auckland Council Library branches on a two-week loan.

Non-fiction fans can dive into everything from Jacinda Ardern’s memoir of her time in office, to Andrew Fagan’s* gripping account of his solo round-the-world sailing voyage, to Dr Timoti Te Moke’s inspiring story of turning his life around from gangs and crime to becoming a doctor at the age of 56.

[*the talk by Andrew Fagan has been rescheduled to occur later this year, as part of the Heritage Festival Auckland at play and sport Sept 20 - Oct 7]

Fiction readers are in for a treat as well, with six new titles to explore - including Dominic Hoey’s coming-of-age novel set in 1980s Grey Lynn and a powerful debut from Gina Butson about a woman on the run from her past.

To celebrate the collection, there will be an opportunity to engage with writers to discuss the inspiration behind their work; dig deeper with free writing workshops for aspiring teen and adult writers led by experienced local authors and tutors; and take part in a reading party at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki.

Catherine Leonard, Auckland Council’s Head of Library and Learning Services, is thrilled to support both local talent and readers through this festival.

“We Read Auckland is about creating opportunities, whether it’s a budding writer attending a workshop or a long-time fan seeing one of their favourite authors speak, our libraries will bring literature to life in new ways throughout August.”

There are several author events across Tāmaki Makaurau throughout the festival.  Catch Diana Wichtel in conversation with Kerre Woodham at Birkenhead Library, hear from Jenny-May Clarkson on her personal story of reconnection at Franklin: The Centre; or join bestselling debut author Rachel Paris with Megan Nicol Reed at Glen Eden Library.

New to the festival this year, it’s the collab you’ve been waiting for - We Read Auckland x Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki! This relaxed reading party on 2 August invites you to bring your own book or borrow a Bestie title from our pop-up library, then settle in for some quiet reading and a relaxed kōrero with fellow booklovers.

We haven’t forgotten our budding writers, there’s a range of writing workshops available for all levels. Led by local authors and creatives, the sessions range from writing the next romance bestseller to Tangata Moana-inspired songwriting workshops for rangatahi. 

All events are free to attend, but they fill up fast! Book your tickets at the We Read Auckland website.

Bestie Collection

Fiction:

• 1985, by Dominic Hoey
• Carved in Blood, by Michael Bennett
• See How They Fall, by Rachel Paris
• The Pool, by Hannah Tunnicliffe
• The Songbirds of Florence, by Olivia Spooner
• The Stars are a Million Glittering Worlds, by Gina Butson

Non-fiction:

• A Different Kind of Power: a memoir, by Jacinda Ardern
• Full Circle: a personal story of reconnection, by Jenny-May Clarkson
• No Words for This: a memoir, by Ali Mau
• Rich Enough? A Laid-Back Guide for Every Kiwi (2025 Edition), by Mary Holm
• Swirly World Lost at Sea, by Andrew Fagan
• The Unlikely Doctor, by Dr. Timoti Te Moke
• Unreel: A Life in Review, by Diana Wichtel
• Whānau: Reo Māori phrases to share with the people you love, by Donovan Te Ahunui Farnham and Rehua Wilson

Author Talk Events

About We Read Auckland Festival

We Read Auckland Festival was launched in 2021 to foster a shared love of reading and writing across Auckland’s diverse communities. The festival aims to highlight regional talent and encourage lifelong engagement with literature.

About Auckland Council Libraries

Did you know that Auckland Council Libraries is the largest public library network in Australasia? There are over 3.4 million items you can borrow at our 56 libraries, mobile libraries or online at aucklandlibraries.govt.nz.