The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa (PEN NZ Inc) is the principal representative for the professional interests of writers. Protecting basic rights to freedom of expression, working to improve income and conditions, promoting Aotearoa New Zealand writing and literary culture. Developing and creating a community for writers.
Build on your skills
- Develop your craft through our in-person and online workshops and roadshows
- Apply for our member-only mentorships, manuscript assessments, prizes, awards and pitching opportunities
- Receive expert training in the business aspects of authorship
- Get individual guidance and advice on all aspects of your professional life, and help with disputes or concerns (non-legal)
- Stay up-to-date with trends and opportunities with our fortnightly newsletter, the Literary Bulletin
Grow your career
- Get individual guidance and advice on all aspects of your professional life, and help with disputes or concerns (non-legal)
- Negotiate better agreements with our free confidential contract advice
- Promote your books, launches or author appearances via our channels
- Highlight your services and skills on our website and in our fortnightly Literary Bulletin and NZ Author
- Access up-to-date information about writing, editing, marketing and publishing in Aotearoa
Connect with other authors
- Connect with writers in your community by joining your local branch
- Kaituhi Māori can also join Te Kaituhi Māori, a safe and supportive space for Māori writers
- Young writers under 30 can also join Pens and PJs
- Meet with writers across Aotearoa at online and in-person events
- Connect with other professionals in the same boat as you
- Share your career and creative concerns with people who understand
Make a difference
- Support our campaigns to improve creative incomes
- Be part of advocacy work to uplift and showcase the creative industries
- Make your voice heard in an increasingly difficult profession
- Join the fight to save libraries, improve literacy and defend the arts
Save with our member discounts
- Access one free Writer Toolkit module per year of membership
- Receive ongoing discounts for Webworkshops, Regional Roadshows and Writer Toolkits
- Save with our member discounts on services from editors, proofreaders, digital conversion, typing services, book designers, bookstores and other arts venues
- Apply for our open awards at a discounted rate
- Browse free information and advice on essential guides and references including contract templates