Apirana Taylor

Ngāti Porou, Te Whanau a Apanui, Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāti Pakeha.

Apirana Taylor is a nationally and internationally renowned Māori poet, storyteller, playwright, novelist, actor and painter and is currently the ‘Writer in Residence’ at Rangi Ruru and St Andrews College. He has previously been ‘Writer in Residence’ at Massey University, 1996, and Canterbury University, 2002.

Apirana has published three collections of poetry, two collections of short stories and a novel. His poetry has been translated into German, Italian and Russian and, as well as being invited to India twice to read his poetry, he was also asked to take part in a three month poetry tour of Europe in 2000. In addition to this, Apirana also writes for radio, television and theatre and is a member of the Māori theatre group Te Ohu Whakaari.

As a storyteller Apirana incorporates traditional Māori and western music, dance, string games and movement into his performances creating a powerful, vibrant and energetic atmosphere. He tells his stories in English but often conveys parts in te reo Māori.

Apirana Taylor will be performing his unique style of storytelling as part of Christchurch City Libraries ‘Te wiki o te reo Māori’ celebrations.

You can see him at:

Central City Library

Wednesday 30 July 1.00 – 2.00pm

Fendalton Community Library

Wednesday 30th July 6:30pm

New Brighton Community Library

Thursday 31 July 1:00 - 2:00pm

Bishopdale Community Library

Friday 1 August 2:00 - 3:00pm

Papanui Community Library

Friday 1 August 11:00am

Apirana’s published works can be borrowed from any library in the Christchurch City Libraries network.