FESTIVAL 2026
WELCOME
E sui faiga ae tumau fa’avae | The form changes but the substance remains the same.
Born from the kaupapa ‘by young writers, for young writers’, this festival encourages storytellers to put their roots down into a ground that has been nurtured by those who came before them, so they can grow into their own identity with confidence and excitement.
The festival creates a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible space for skill-building, creativity, performance, and community connection.
Proudly produced by Dunedin Fringe Arts Trust, NZYWF uplifts the voices of young writers aged 18-35 and celebrates a diverse range of wordsmithing.
We invite you to join us – from young creatives to art and literature loving adults, all are welcome to celebrate Aotearoa’s next generation of literary talent.
Nau mai, haere mai ki tēnei hui whakahirahira.
All festival events are free to attend but you can buy a ‘pay what you want’ ticket if you choose.
Events and workshops have limited space so we recommend booking.
All events are at Te Whare o Rukutia (20 Princes St) and Dunedin Community Gallery (26 Princes St) which are next door to each other and are both wheelchair accessible.
Events will be photographed for ongoing festival marketing.
If you’re feeling unwell, please stay home.
