Two writers residencies in crisis
Two of the most well-established writers residencies in New Zealand literature are under threat. Wellington’s Randell Cottage Writers Residency has been defunded. The Sargeson Fellowship, with beautiful premises in Auckland’s Albert Park, is now essentially homeless. Both face uncertain if not downright gloomy futures.
Invitation to Lynn Davidson’s book launch on 13 February
We are thrilled that Lynn Davidson is about to launch the memoir she worked on while a resident at Randell Cottage. All are welcome to the launch of Do You Still Have Time for Chaos? at Unity Books on 13 February.
From snowy Paris to sunny Wellington
The 2024 French laureate has just taken up residence in Randell Cottage. Julien Blanc-Gras and his son were welcomed at Wellington Airport by representatives of the Randell Cottage Writers Trust and the Embassy of France.
Michael King Writers Centre residency for Rose Lu
Congratulations to Rose Lu, an alumna of Randell Cottage, who has been selected as a 2024 writer in residence at the Michael King Writers Centre in Devonport, Auckland. Rose spent April to September 2022 at Randell Cottage.
Farewell to Caroline Laurent
After a whirlwind two-month stay, Caroline Laurent is on her way back to France via Tahiti, which will be one of the settings of the novel she has been working on during her residency. Caroline was enthusiastic about the writing she has already completed and the lasting friendships she has developed in New Zealand. Trustees Jean Anderson and Christine Hurley farewelled Caroline from Randell Cottage and look forward to news of her safe return home.
Hinemoana Baker selected as 2024 Randell Cottage Writer in Residence
Poet and performer Hinemoana Baker has been selected as the 2024 Creative New Zealand Randell Cottage Writing Fellow, and will be residing and writing in the Cottage from July to December 2024.
Randell Cottage mourns the passing of Renée
The Randell Cottage Writers Trust pays tribute to renowned author and playwright, Renée, whose passing on 11 December at the age of 94 has been announced by her family.
Rachel O’Neill seeks the music of the moment: new video and report
Our most recent resident, Rachel O’Neill, has reflected on the six months they spent in Randell Cottage in a new video and report to Trustees.
A night with two Randell Cottage writers
Huge thanks to everyone who joined us in person and online on Tuesday at the National Library to hear from 2023 Randell Cottage residents Rachel O’Neill and Caroline Laurent, in conversation with trustee Francis Cooke.
Join us on 21 November with two Randell Cottage writers
Please join us on Tuesday 21 November at the National Library – or via zoom link if you’re unable to attend in person.
Special event on 21 November with two Randell Cottage writers
You’re invited to the National Library Auditorium on 21 November to get to know our latest writers. New Zealand poet Rachel O’Neill has just finished
News flash: Randell Cottage events in October and November
Read the latest newsletter from the Friends of Randell Cottage and find out about events in October and November.
A Better Place, new wartime novel by past resident Stephen Daisley
A newly-launched novel by Stephen Daisley traces the harsh Second World War experiences of twin brothers serving in the Taranaki regiment as it fought in Crete, Egypt and Italy.
Applications Invited For 2024 Randell Cottage Writers Residency
Applications are now open for one of New Zealand’s top writing residencies: the 2024 Creative New Zealand Randell Cottage Writers Fellowship.
Randell Cottage Movie Night
Book now for the Randell Cottage screening of the new film, Napoleon.
Julien Blanc-Gras announced as the French resident for 2024
Julien Blanc-Gras now joins the prestigious tradition of writers in residence at Randell Cottage, where he will reside in Wellington from January to May 2024.