Author Talk: An evening with Witi Ihimaera

Celebrate one of Aotearoa’s most celebrated writers in an intimate evening of conversation with Witi Ihimaera at Rotorua Library. Marking the 30th anniversary of Nights in the Garden of Spain, Witi will reflect on the groundbreaking semi-autobiographical novel that explored identity, family, culture, and his experience of coming out as a gay Māori man.
Known internationally for works including The Whale Rider, Witi Ihimaera has helped shape New Zealand literature for generations through novels, short stories, screenwriting, theatre, opera, and children’s books. His work has opened doors for Māori storytelling and LGBTQIA+ visibility in Aotearoa and beyond.
This special event will explore Witi’s remarkable creative journey, the personal and political impact of storytelling, and his ongoing journey reclaiming te reo Māori. The evening will include a moderated discussion, audience questions, and opportunities for reflection on belonging, identity, whakapapa, and the power of literature to change lives.
Hosted in partnership with Rainbow Rotorua and Rotorua Library, this event welcomes readers, writers, Rainbow whānau, allies, and anyone passionate about storytelling and cultural identity.
This event is a collaboration between Rotorua Library and Rainbow Rotorua.
Big thanks to our sponsors and partners
Bay Trust
Rotorua Trust
Lottery Grants Board
Te Puni Kokiri
Rotorua Library, Te Aka Mauri
Friends of Rotorua Library
Rotorua Lakes Council
Mcleods Booksellers
Penguin Random House New Zealand