A tono for kaituhi Māori across the motu: apply now to be mentored by an established and acclaimed Māori writer!

Modelled on a tuakana-teina relationship, this kaupapa aims to offer a safe and supportive space for emerging kaituhi to develop their craft; gain encouragement and accountability, along with substantive feedback.

Over a period of up to six months, this programme provides opportunities to discuss ideas and issues – practical and editorial – and benefit from the experience, mōhio and mana of experienced kaituhi Māori. It is designed to help aspiring kaituhi Māori develop further skills to sustain and strengthen them throughout their future career.  As well as mentorship, part of this programme is to provide constructive suggestions for the refinement of a work in progress.

Mentors are acclaimed Māori writers including Cassie Hart, Emma Hislop, Steph Makutu, Kiri Piahana-Wong and Jacquie McRae.

This programme is open to all kaituhi who whakapapa Māori – applications from both NZSA members and non-NZSA members are welcome. Mentoring can take place either kanohi ki te kanohi, by telephone, zoom, email or a combination thereof. 

Successful applicants will not only secure a mentorship, but will also receive a year’s free membership to the NZSA (if you are already an NZSA member you will receive an additional year’s membership renewal).

Applications are open from 20 February - 20 March.

More information and application details are available via the New Zealand Society for Authors website, here and here.