The Art of the Short Story

Though minimalist in word count, the short story is big on impact.

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  • Words by Auckland Writers Festival - Waituhi o Tāmaki
  • Last updated 21 Feb 2025

What is required to make a good work of short fiction? Airini Beautrais meets one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most celebrated fiction writers Patricia Grace (Ngati Toa, Ngati Raukawa and Te Ati Awa); editor of The Best Short Stories 2023, US author Lauren Groff, and Ockham NZ Book Awards longlisted author of Ruin and Other Stories Emma Hislop (Kāi Tahu) to discuss.

Location Te wāhi
Aotea Centre
Aotea Centre
Plan your route
Getting there Te huarahi ki reira

The Aotea Centre is a short walk up Queen Street from Britomart station, and the Civic car park is conveniently located beside the venue if you’re driving.

Local tip He tīwhiri mō te rohe

Check out the sculpture of celebrated Kiwi opera singer Dame Kiri Te Kanawa which sits on Level 3 of the Aotea Centre. It was created by local artist Terry Stringer and unveiled by Dame Kiri Te Kanawa herself when the auditorium was named in her honour in 2019.

dates and times
  • Sat 18 May 8:30pm