Two writers’ residencies are offered annually at the Randell Cottage: one is available to New Zealand writers and the other to French nationals. The usual timing is for the French residency to take place in the first half of the calendar year and the New Zealand residency in the second half of the year.
Interested applicants can see more about the Cottage and its history on this website.
The Randell Cottage New Zealand Writer in Residence
The New Zealand writer’s residency is designed to run from July to December annually, with the recipient working on an approved project during their stay. Selection is carried out by a Trust-appointed committee.
From 2002 to 2024, the fellowship was supported by Creative New Zealand. However, the Trust’s funding application to CNZ for the three years from 2025 to 2027 was unsuccessful, and we are currently seeking alternative sponsorship.
essa may ranapiri has been awarded the 2026 Fellowship and has taken up residency from July 2026.
Applications for the 2027 NZ residency are due to open in early September.
Read more about the New Zealand Writer in Residence.
The Randell Cottage French Writer in Residence
The French writer residency runs from January to May annually. It is one of four arts residencies within the French Embassy’s ‘Villa Antipode’ concept.
Applications generally open for this residency in April/May of the preceding year.
Lili Sohn has been announced as the 2027 laureate.
Covid-19 provisions
Applicants for Randell Cottage residencies are required to observe any coronavirus-related regulations issued by the New Zealand Government that may be in force during their stay.has taken up residency from July 2026.