Sullivan named 2025–2028 Aotearoa New Zealand Poet Laureate
Robert Sullivan (Ngāpuhi, Kāi Tahu) of Ōamaru has been named the Aotearoa New Zealand Poet Laureate for 2025–2028.
Sullivan is a poet, writer, editor and academic, and the current president of the New Zealand Poetry Society / Te Rōpū Toikupu o Aotearoa. He has written nine books of poetry, including Hopurangi / Songcatcher: Poems from the Maramataka (Auckland University Press), which was shortlisted for the Mary and Peter Biggs Award for Poetry at the 2025 Ockham New Zealand Book Awards. He has also written a children’s book of Māori myths and legends and a graphic novel. Sullivan belongs to Ngāpuhi Nui Tonu (Ngāti Hau, and Ngāti Manu), and Kai Tahu (Kāti Huirapa ki Puketeraki), with affiliations to Ngāti Raukawa, and Ngāi Tai. He is also of Irish, Scottish and English descent. He lives in Oāmaru on the coastline known as Te Tai o Āraiteuru.
He said, ‘I’m very grateful to receive this laureateship. It recognises the continuum of Māori poets who are publishing such rich, vibrant work. There are too many to name all of the Māori poets writing, composing and performing today but they inspire me through seeing our tupuna in their soulful words.’
The National Library made the announcement as part of National Poetry Day celebrations.
Acting Te Pouhuaki / National librarian Gina Smith said, ‘Robert amplifies Māori and Pacific voices in thoughtful engagement with complex cultural narratives. He has great standing as a poet, teacher and scholar, he holds considerable māna and leads with grace and humility.’
As laureate, Sullivan receives $40,000 per year, with the balance held by the National Library to cover the cost of the laureate’s tokotoko, and to support his travel and participation in literary events.
The previous (2022–2025) Aotearoa New Zealand Poet Laureate was Chris Tse.
More information about the poet laureate program is available on the organisation’s website.
Category: Local news
