We Read Auckland

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.

The 2025 programme of free events and workshops at libraries and community places across Tāmaki Makaurau offers something for everyone.

Want to manage your money better? Hear directly from Aotearoa's most trusted personal finance specialist Mary Holm, as she presents an evening of kōrero about personal finances, Kiwisaver and money management for Kiwis, based on her revised best-selling guide, Rich Enough?

Or, be inspired by broadcaster and former Silver Fern Jenny-May Clarkson’s stories from her recent memoir, Full Circle, and her journey to reclaiming and reconnecting to te ao Māori.

Fiction readers are in for a treat too, 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.

No matter where you’re based in Tamaki Makaurau, there’s an event in a neighbourhood near you. Catch Diana Wichtel in conversation with Kerre Woodham at Birkenhead Library, hear Michael Bennett discuss his latest book Carved in Blood at Howick Library, or join bestselling debut author Rachel Paris with Megan Nicol Reed at Glen Eden Library.

Aspiring young writers can explore their creativity and find their voice as a wordsmith at FREE writing workshops for rangatahi at Mt Roskill Library, Ellen Melville Centre, Tupu Youth Library and more.
Plus, enjoy two adult writing workshops – the first on August 10, diving into the world of poetry and observation with local poet Vivienne Plumb, followed by a session on August 17 exploring the nuances of romance fiction writing with USA best-selling author Steff Green.
 
New this year, don’t miss the collab you’ve been waiting for: We Read Auckland x Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki! The relaxed reading party on August 2 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.
All events are FREE to attend, but they fill up fast! See the full schedule and book your tickets today.