Writers' Festival

Wednesday, 13th May 2026 at 7:30am

On Wednesday (13 May 2026), GBHS's English Scholarship students attended the Auckland Writers' Festival as part of their year long extension programme in preparation for an end of year exam.

Throughout the year, English teachers deliver university level lectures on how to critically read and analyse texts. The Writers' Festival is a fantastic opportunity for our students to hear published authors from around the world discuss their writing processes and driving forces.

Gilbert Enoka (former All Blacks mental-skills coach, and author of 'Becoming Unstoppable') gave an inspirational talk - his strategies on creating a winning mentality were fascinating.

Nikita Gill, an Irish / Indian author, discussed her book 'Hekate: The Witch'. Gill’s passion for modernising Greek mythology using poetry was an inspiring combination of talents to experience.

After a quick lunch break in Aotea Square, students headed back for more literature.

UK author Josh Silver spoke about his latest award winning YA novel 'Traumaland'. His thoughtful perspective on how fictional dystopian futures help us understand the world around us today sparked fascinating discussions amongst our students.

The day ended with some spectacular homegrown poets. Manaia Tuwhare-Hoani (Ngāti Wai, Ngāpuhi) and Matariki Bennett (Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Hinerangi) used poetry and waiata to create a performance unique to Aotearoa NZ, leading to an interactive session where students collectively created an original poem!