With six categories – student poetry, student fiction, staff poetry, staff fiction, alumni poetry and alumni fiction – this is an opportunity for ALL keen writers across ALL of the University’s campuses and alumni all over the world to have a go.
The competition was created in 2019 as part of the University’s 150th celebrations – and we are thrilled to be offering it once again this year.
This year’s theme/writing prompt is: Small things – overlooked details and ordinary moments
“Writer” welcomes entries in English and te reo Māori (though we do ask for an English translation for judging purposes).
Otago psychology research has shown that creativity is hugely beneficial for mental health, and this competition is one way of supporting creativity among our University community and alumni.
University of Otago research on creativity
Writer 2026 winners
| Student poetry | Annie Hall |
|---|---|
| Student fiction | Anindita Chatterjee |
| Staff poetry | Nat Christensen |
| Staff fiction | Tino Mercado |
| Alumni poetry | Sarah Gallagher |
| Alumni fiction | Nicki Macklin |
Read the Writer 2026 winning entries
Any questions?
If you have any questions, please contact us: