2026 Hawke's Bay Readers & Writers Festival

Join the conversation at the 2026 Hawke's Bay Readers & Writers Festival!

The 2026 Arts Festival is happening October 8-18.  All 2026 Hawke's Bay Arts Festival info can be found HERE.

Be inspired by our outstanding line-up of national and local guests. Explore subjects as diverse as surviving disasters, Hawke's Bay horse racing, romantasy, and solving mysteries through forensic science.

From Friday evening to Sunday afternoon, we're bringing you eleven engaging sessions and two hands-on workshops. Whether you're an avid reader, an aspiring writer, or simply curious about the world around you, there's something for everyone.

Wardini Books and Beattie & Forbes will be onsite throughout the weekend, with books available for purchase and opportunities to have your copies signed by your favourite authors.

The HB Readers & Writers Festival is all about connecting great writers and thinkers with local readers, opening doors to new ideas, and celebrating the stories that help us understand ourselves and each other.

The festival is made possible through the generosity of our supporters, funders and community. If you'd like to help us continue bringing outstanding writers and engaging events to Hawke's Bay, you'll have the option to add a donation when purchasing your ticket. Every contribution makes a difference, and we're hugely grateful for your support.

Book early to secure your place at your preferred sessions and workshops. We'd love you to join us.

From your Hawke's Bay Readers & Writers team: Carla, Catherine, Josephine, Judith, Kate, Kristen, Louise, and Maureen.

Click on a link below (when they appear), or click through to Eventfinda to get more details. Tickets are on sale from 6.00pm, Thursday 6 August.