Our books matter. Our authors and their stories are world-leading. ReadNZ is a campaign to get more of us reading books written by New Zealanders.

New Zealand books reflect the rich social and cultural history that has shaped us as a nation. There is a special joy in reading about ourselves, and in hearing our own voices telling our own stories.

Just like the music and films made here, our books have a special energy that comes from our unique place in the Pacific.

Book Council CEO Jo Cribb says the campaign is all about celebrating our own voices.

“Immersing yourself in a book that has been written in a familiar place is a special experience.

It just deepens your engagement with it,” she says.

“We want to encourage readers to check out the diverse range of amazing books written here in Aotearoa.”

Look out for #readNZ on social media and join us by sharing what you’re reading. You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter and the Book Council blog.

Find special book recommendations, events, competitions and giveaways and join us in celebrating New Zealand voices.

ReadNZ is a sector-wide initiative and has included input from New Zealand libraries, booksellers, Creative New Zealand, publishers, literary festivals and other organisations. Please get in touch if you or your organisation would like to be involved.