Competition News

The takahē Matariki Short Short Story Celebration is currently open and accepting submissions until 27th June 2026. Nine stories will be selected to celebrate the appearance of the nine stars of Matariki.

This special submissions opportunity pays $150, has no theme, and is looking for stories of 500 words or less. The nine selected stories will be announced at Matariki and then published in the August 2026 issue (#117) of takahē. Anyone currently living in Aotearoa New Zealand is eligible to submit work, along with New Zealand citizens and residents living overseas.

Check all the details and send your story via Submittable.

The takahē Monica Taylor Poetry Prize is currently open and accepting submissions until 30th September 2026.

The Prize honours the memory of poet Monica Taylor, with the generous assistance of her whānau, and with the kaupapa of encouraging new generations of poets.

The first prize is $300 (NZD) and publication in the December 2026 issue of takahē. The runner-up prize is $150.

Work can be in English, or in Te Reo Māori with English translation. Open theme. Poems may be up to 50 lines. Entry is $5 per poem. Entrants must be currently living in Aotearoa New Zealand, or be a New Zealand citizen or resident currently living abroad.

Check all the details and send your entry via Submittable.