WHERE: Pipitea Marae, 55 Thorndon Quay, Pipitea, Wellington 6011

TIME: 6.15pm for a 6.30pm ceremony start, followed by drinks and refreshments, 8.30pm to 10.00pm

TICKETS: $52.00 (including after function)

Book and pay online at https://events.humanitix.com/nz-book-awards-2026 (fees may apply)

For any enquiries regarding ticket sales, please email childrensawards@nzbookawards.org.nz

VENUE: Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui, Wellington's Central Library (65 Victoria Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011)

DATE/TIME: Wednesday 19 August, 9.30am-2.30pm

Over 20 writers and illustrators who are finalists in the 2026 New Zealand Book Awards for Children & Young Adults will be appearing at the Wellington Books Alive events.

A varied programme will include behind-the-book talks, workshops on writing and illustration, live drawing, and lightning talk sessions.

Schools that register for Wellington Books Alive events will be provided with individual schedules that are created especially for them based on the ages and interests of students.

Groups can attend either morning or afternoon sessions only, or come along for the whole day.

Due to overwhelming interest, we have had to close registrations for Wellington Books Alive events.

If you are interested in attending and would like to be added to a waiting list, please email booksalive@nzbookawards.org.nz. Should any cancellations occur, we will do our best to fit your group in.

Please note that while all Books Alive events are FREE, booking is essential.

The 2026 Books Alive finalist event programme in Wellington is being organised by an expert team at Wellington City Libraries, and is supported by funding from Wellington City Libraries.