LitFest 2026
Kia ora, neighbours! We are thrilled to announce that LitFest is back, marking our second year running this district-wide celebration of literacy, and thanks to your incredible support, the festival is growing! For 2026 we’ve expanded our reach to ensure that our smaller and rural libraries are included – Glenorchy, Kingston, and Hāwea, here we come!
Queenstown Lakes District Libraries are proud to host a diverse array of free literacy events throughout May and June. Whether you are looking to sharpen a skill, share a story, or simply connect with fellow book-lovers, there is something in the program for everyone.
We kick off in May with a dedicated focus on neurodiversity, hosting an adult ADHD workshop and several sessions designed for adults and parents to better understand dyslexia.
For those looking to unleash their inner artist, the schedule is packed with creative opportunities. You can dive into the world of performance and writing through our workshops on spoken-word, micro-fiction and poetry. For a bit of lighthearted fun, don’t miss the “Bad Book Cover” design challenge - the ultimate chance to play ‘literary surgeon’ as we attempt to save existing books from their own disastrous cover designs! Our author events are shaping up to be a highlight of the season, including an intimate evening in Glenorchy with beloved author Ruth Shaw (The Bookseller at the End of the World), the launch of Eva Wong Ng’s moving memoir Daughter of Two Cultures, and an evening with mountaineer, filmmaker, and author Brian Hall (High Risk).
As we move into June, the festival shifts toward community spirit and practical skills, starting with the magic of reading for our youngest residents through Rainbow Storytimes held across the district. You can find community harmony by joining a singing session in Wānaka or getting hands-on with a craft workshop at the Frankton Library. For those exploring language and identity, we are hosting Latin kōrero - a special session for Spanish speakers navigating life in New Zealand - alongside workshops on crafting your pepeha to help you connect with your heritage and the land. To round out the offerings, you can gain practical wisdom and build your financial confidence during our expert-led session at Queenstown Library.
Everything at LitFest is free, but space is limited for certain workshops. Pop into your local branch or visit our website to view the full program and secure your spot. Let’s make this year our best one yet!
qldclibraries.govt.nz
