Four writers from across Aotearoa have received the 2024 Copyright Licensing New Zealand (CLNZ) and New Zealand Society of Authors (NZSA) Research Grants. Each writer will get five thousand dollars to support the research needed for their next book. The grants help both fiction and non-fiction projects.
The judging panel included Siobhan Harvey, Vasanti Unka, and Vaughan Rapatahana. They said the number of applications was inspiring. The panel reviewed eighty-five submissions and encouraged more writers to apply again next year.
Dr Lori Leigh: Exploring Queer Homes in Aotearoa
Dr Lori Leigh, an award-winning writer based in Wellington, will work on their project “Homo Sweet Homo: The History of New Zealand’s Queer Homes.” Lori plans to explore how queer people in Aotearoa create safe homes and express identity through their living spaces.
The judges said the project stood out because it uses history, personal stories, and cultural analysis. They believe this topic has not been explored deeply before and will add important knowledge to New Zealand’s social history.
Kate Parker: Three Children’s Books About Native Wildlife
West Auckland author and illustrator Kate Parker will research and create three picture books about native animals. The books will focus on:
- Tākoketai (Northern Black Petrel) and their long journey between Aotea Island and Ecuador
- Korōra (Little Blue Penguin) and the problems they face due to heatwaves and disappearing fish
- Kōputōtara (New Zealand Porcupine Fish) and the damage caused when people take too much from the ocean
The judges said her projects will help young readers learn about wildlife, mātauranga Māori, and the environment. They believe the books will support conversations about caring for Aotearoa.
Steph Matuku: A Novel Set in the Whaling Era
Writer Steph Matuku will use her grant to research “The Blue Dawn,” a new adult novel. The story takes place in the early nineteenth century, during the height of the whaling industry. It mixes Māori mythology with the struggle between tradition and economic change.
The judges loved the idea and said the research trip to Kororāreka would help Steph build a strong and believable world for her story.
Kerry Sunderland: Understanding Life Through the Study of Death
Journalist and author Kerry Sunderland will start her book “Deathwalker’s Guide to Life: How Exploring Death Can Help You Live Life More Fully.” The project is inspired by her podcast, where she speaks with guests about death, grief, and personal growth.
Her book will combine true stories, reflections, and practical advice to help readers face difficult topics with more confidence. The judges said the proposal is strong and will have real emotional value for many people.
Supporting New Zealand Writers
CLNZ and NZSA say they are proud to back writers who bring Aotearoa’s stories to life. The grants are funded through the CLNZ Cultural Fund, which receives two percent of domestic licensing income and international revenue.
Both organisations thanked the 2024 judging panel and encouraged writers across the country to apply again next year. They remain committed to mentoring, supporting, and promoting New Zealand writers and their work.
Content sourced from Scoop.co.nz.
