KUPU Ngā Ringa Tuhituhi – Māori Writers Festival 2025 returns to Rotorua with a bold new format and fresh energy. Rere te maramara! The sparks of storytelling will be flying across three unforgettable events — from a lakeside writers’ retreat at Lake Ōkataina, to our flagship festival in Rotorua’s cultural heart, and the historic hosting of the Pikihuia Awards in Te Arawa for the very first time.

Join us as we honour the power of indigenous storytelling. Hear from celebrated Māori authors, poets, playwrights, screenwriters, kapa haka composers and reo champions — each sharing their journeys, skills and inspirations. Whether you’re a writer, reader, kaihaka or kaiako, there’s something here for you.