New Zealand Poet Laureate Robert Sullivan to Visit New Plymouth

Renowned New Zealand Poet Laureate Robert Sullivan will visit New Plymouth on October 11, 2023, to celebrate the work of fellow artist Maureen Lander and to engage with the local community through poetry workshops. Sullivan, who was appointed to the prestigious role in August, aims to enhance the visibility of poetry across Aotearoa during his three-year tenure.

Sullivan, a poet based in Ōamaru, has authored nine poetry collections, notably Star Waka, which has seen five reprints. His latest work, Hopurangi/Songcatcher: Poems from the Maramataka, delves into the influence of the Māori lunar calendar on his writing. This connection between nature and poetry will be a key theme during his visit to New Plymouth.

The day’s events will begin at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, where Sullivan will honour Lander’s contributions. He will perform a reading from his Star Waka collection, coinciding with the current exhibition titled He Tukutuku Auahatanga: Maureen Lander with Community, which concludes on October 12. Lander, an esteemed artist of Ngāpuhi and Te Hikūtū descent, received the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2020 for her services to Māori art, including collaborations with over 100 artists and students to create large-scale installations.

Sullivan expressed his anticipation for the visit, stating, “She’s really a taonga of our country. She’s always been so supportive of my work and of others too.” His reading will not only feature selections from Star Waka but also poems from his latest collection, reflecting on how the gravitational influences of celestial bodies shape the energy and tone of his writing.

The workshop at Puke Ariki, set for later in the day from 14:00 to 16:00, will explore the relationship between the natural world and poetry. Sullivan emphasized his belief that poetry should be accessible to all, describing his appointment as “a great gift” and an opportunity to give back to the art form.

Both events are free of charge, although pre-booking is required for the workshop. The reading at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery will commence at 11:30. Sullivan’s visit represents a significant effort to engage the community with poetry, encouraging participation and appreciation of the art.