A short story competition open to
all
Māori writers
Nearly 200 Māori writers have emerged through the Pikihuia short story competition, a competition that has firmly cemented a place in the literary calendar of Aotearoa.
The Pikihuia Awards has long championed new and emerging talent, serving as a springboard for the next generation of Māori writers.
Past winners of the Pikihuia Awards have included acclaimed writers – Paula Morris, James George, Kelly Ana Morey, Tina Makereti, Whiti Hereaka, Steph Matuku, Shilo Kino – and the list grows.
Pikihuia is held every two years and is open to all Māori writers.
Submissions now OPEN
2025 Pikihuia Awards
This year the Pikihuia Awards will celebrate 30 years of supporting and nurturing kaituhi Māori! Held biennially, the Pikihuia Awards have welcomed short story submissions in both te reo Māori and English. Following the exciting new categories introduced in 2023, The Māori Literature Trust is proud to announce that we are again adjusting the genre categories in response to feedback from the writing community and industry experts.
2023 Pikihuia Awards
The 2023 Pikihuia Awards revealed a record-breaking number of Māori poets, ready to share their kupu with the world.
2021 Pikihuia Awards
The 2021 Pikihuia Awards revealed a strong indication that more Māori writers than ever are finding their voice and are ready to be heard.
2019 Pikihuia Awards
The 2019 Pikihuia Awards revealed a new generation of confident Māori storytellers, speaking with authority and authenticity.