At the 2026 Pānui event at the National Library of New Zealand, join lit legend David Hill as he explores his thoughts on reading as a pathway to compassion, self-reflection and happiness—all with that characteristic David Hill warmth and wit.

The 2026 Pānui is Tuesday 3 November, 6pm at  National Library of New Zealand Te Puna Mātaruanga o Aotearoa Auditorium in Wellington.

One of New Zealand’s most prolific authors for children and young adults, David Hill has published more than 50 titles over four decades.

David Hill is best known for writing for children and young adults but is also a playwright, poet, columnist, adult novelist and critic. His books have been published in many countries and languages around the world.

Born in Napier, David spent fourteen years teaching before writing full-time. His books range in topic from studies on poetry to teenage fiction, for which he has received numerous awards here and overseas.

In 2004 he was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, and in 2021 he was awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for Literary Achievement – Fiction in recognition of his outstanding contribution to New Zealand Literature. He also received a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2024 for Services to Writing.

David is a passionate advocate for reading and a beloved part of the Aotearoa literary community whose influence extends beyond what the eye can see. Generations of readers have felt inspired and seen by his characters and stories.

David’s main publisher is Penguin New Zealand, and recent titles include Stepping Up, a middle-grade novel about a sporty teenager who faces a journey of resilience after losing his lower leg in a mountain rock accident; and Giant Heart: How Jonah Lomu Became a Rugby Legend which is a a children’s biography of the famous sporting star.

David lives with his wife Beth in New Plymouth, New Zealand.

Read NZ said it was beyond thrilled that he is delivering this year’s Read NZ Te Pou Muramura Pānui.