03 Mar 2016
Since 2010, The Māori Literature Trust and Huia Publishers have worked in conjunction to establish this unique writing opportunity for Māori writers. Chosen applicants will spend six months of 2016 working in partnership with a mentor to further develop their manuscript and improve their writing processes. All to meet the end goal of having a publishable manuscript.
Robyn Bargh, chairperson of the Māori Literature Trust says, “We are honoured to be running the fourth Te Papa Tupu incubator. For us, pairing promising Māori writers with effective writing mentors is an important part of the development of our writers and Māori literature. The Trust is looking forward to this year’s applications.”
Previous participants in the Te Papa Tupu Writing Incubator have not only gained valuable help from their mentors but some have also gone on to become published authors. The list includes Jacquie McRae, The Scent of Apples, Mark Sweet, Zhu Mao, and Tihema Baker, Watched. In addition, Fred Te Maro’s Tūtewehi was the first Māori language book to be published from Te Papa Tupu. With three out of these four books being nominated for or winning national and international book awards.
“Te Papa Tupu has helped enormously in my development as a writer; as a participant in 2012 and later as a mentor,” says Whiti Hereaka. “Without the support of the programme, I wouldn’t have written my novel Bugs. It’s a great opportunity – grab it!” Bugs was also the winner of the 2014 New Zealand Children’s and Young Adults Book Awards.
So what are you waiting for? The Māori Literature Trust invites Māori writers of novels, short stories, children's books, young adult books and non-fiction writing to send your completed manuscripts in. Whether you write in English or Māori, it’s up to you! Applications are open now and you will have until 5pm 22 May to apply – so don’t leave it too late.
For more information visit mlt.org.nz or email tepapatupu@huia.co.nz
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