The Dictionary of New Zealand English: A Dictionary of New Zealandisms on Historical Principles by Harry Orsman (Oxford University Press, 1997)
Fiction
Live Bodies by Maurice Gee (Penguin, 1998)
Poetry
Shape-Shifter by Hone Tuwhare (Steele Roberts, 1997)
History & Biography
The Dictionary of New Zealand English: A Dictionary of New Zealandisms on Historical Principles by Harry Orsman (Oxford University Press, 1997)
Illustrative Arts
Goldie by Roger Blackley (David Bateman, 1997)
Environment & Heritage
Pick of the Bunch: New Zealand Wildflowers by Peter Johnson (Longacre Press, 1997)
Lives & Lifestyle
The Complete New Zealand Fisherman: Saltwater & Freshwater Fishing by Geoff Thomas (David Bateman, 1997)
Readers’ Choice Award
New Zealand Historical Atlas edited by Malcolm McKinnon (David Bateman in association with the Historical Branch, Department of Internal Affairs, 1997)
The NZSA Hubert Church Award for Best First Book of Fiction
In a Fishbone Church by Catherine Chidgey (Victoria University Press, 1998)
The NZSA Jessie Mackay Award for Best First Book of Poetry
All Roads Lead to the Sea by Kapka Kassabova (Auckland University Press, 1997)
The NZSA E. H. McCormick Award for Best First Book of Non-Fiction
Olives: The New Passion by Genevieve Noser (Viking, 1997)
