We are delighted to announce shortlisted stories for English entries in the 2025 awards. The decision of our te reo Māori judge Nuki Takao will be given at our prize-giving event (details below).

Please note it is a condition of entry that authors’ names must remain confidential. Your story will be disqualified if you publicise your success before before the prize-giving event.

Congratulations to authors of the following stories (in alphabetical order):

• Astrid, the disbeliever
• Billy’s Place
• Coq Au Vin For Dinner
• Da Boyz
• Emily’s Ballet Flats
• Flush
• My Watercress Kitty
• Scarlet Woman
• The Elephants
• Waves rise up like mountains

Stories will be published (if authors permit) on the Top of the South website after the awards ceremony.

Authors who have requested an assessment of their entry will recieve judge’s feedback by the end of October.