World Poetry Day

World Poetry Day History

World Poetry Day honours the unique ability of poetry to capture the creative spirit of the human mind. A significant goal of the day is to appreciate and support poets and poetry around the world. This day is also used to encourage a return to the oral tradition of poetry recitals, to promote the teaching of poetry, and to restore a dialogue between poetry and the other arts such as theatre, dance, music and painting. This observance aims to raise the visibility of poetry in the media and society which can positively contribute to linguistic diversity and promote the free expression of all ideas.

World Poetry Day was first designated by UNESCO during its 30th session held in Paris in 1999. For New Zealand, this day is a celebration of the country's rich poetic heritage, from traditional Maori chants (waiata) to contemporary works. New Zealand has a vibrant and diverse poetry scene with poets regularly exploring themes related to identity, culture, history, love, nature and much more. It is also seen as a day for recognising the talent of local poets and for highlighting the important role that poetry plays in New Zealand's cultural and intellectual life.

In New Zealand, World Poetry Day is celebrated with various events such as poetry readings, workshops, and competitions organised by schools, publishers, cultural organisations, libraries, and other community groups. Social media platforms often buzz with hashtags allowing Kiwis to share their favourite verses or own compositions. World Poetry Day takes place annually on March 21st, providing a wonderful opportunity for New Zealanders to explore and connect with poetry in all its forms and to foster a culture of literacy and intellectual growth.

Facts about World Poetry Day

• The oldest love poem in the world was written on a clay tablet during the Sumerian times, which was around 3500 BC.
• William Shakespeare is most often praised for his work as a playwright however he also wrote several poems. They were just as well received as his plays, some are, The Phoenix and the Turtle, Fear no more the heat o' the sun, and from The Rape of Lucrece.
• Mahabharata is the longest poem in the world. The Indian epic poem contains about 1.8 million words.
• Many prestigious New Zealand poets over the years, including Sam Hunt, Allen Curnow, and Hone Tuwhare, among others, have helped shape the vibrant and diverse landscape of New Zealand's poetry, celebrated on World Poetry Day.
• The Jessie Mackay Award, now known as the Jessie Mackay Best First Book Award for Poetry, is one of the oldest literary awards in New Zealand, encouraging and recognizing new poets.

In the News and Trending in NZ for World Poetry Day

Top things to do in NZ for World Poetry Day

• Read up about riddles, rhymes, limericks and sonnets and then try to write your very own original poem. Once written, share it on social media as a picture or a note.
• Go see a poetry slam show. It is often a dramatic performance in which poets recite their poetry. It is considered to be one of the most interesting ways of engaging poetry.
• Attend the Auckland Writers Festival: This annual event features local and international poets who share their work through readings, performances and workshops.
• Visit the Katherine Mansfield House and Garden: She was a well-known New Zealand writer. Though primarily a prose writer, her poetry is also worth exploring on this day.