21 POETS LAUREATE

This is a rare opportunity to see New Zealand Poets Laureate gather together for a special celebration of the post. Current Poet Laureate Cilla McQueen (2009-2011) joins her predecessors* inaugural Poet Laureate Bill Manhire (1997-1999), Elizabeth Smither (2001-2003), Jenny Bornholdt (2005-2007) and Michele Leggott (2008-2009) to perform for ten minutes each, before talking about what it means to hold the title. MC: Fiona Farrell.

* Brian Turner (2003-2005) is overseas; and we honour the memory of the late Hone Tuwhare (Poet Laureate 1999-2001).

This free event is supported by the National Library of New Zealand, a group within the Department of Internal Affairs.