Lynley Dodd Children's Writers Award

This award is made possible thanks to the huge act of generosity from Aotearoa New Zealand’s literary great, Dame Lynley Dodd DNZM, who has committed to backing this award for the future with a long-term gift.

Lynley says this award aims to replicate that impactful support. “The Bursary I received in the late 1970s gave me the vote of confidence I needed at just the right moment. I have always felt immensely grateful for such a life-changing piece of luck. Knowing what the win did for me, I have always thought how marvellous it would be to be able to do the same for another writer. At last, I have the opportunity to realise my dream!”

Jessica Palalagi, Kaiwhakahaere / General Manager of The Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi, says this completes our annual recognition of the creators of children’s literature. “The launch of the Lynley Dodd Children’s Writers Award puts The Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi in a unique position to annually recognise creators of children’s literature. This new Award will alternate with the Mallinson Rendel Illustrators Award, which recognises children's illustrators. We couldn’t be more grateful for these arts champions, whose backing directly supports artists who do the crucial work of telling our stories to our tamariki / children across generations.”

The Lynley Dodd Children’s Writers Award is intended for authors who have established their identity in the field of children’s literature, showcasing richness, range, and depth in their work. Eligible recipients should have published two or three books, whether they are picture books, junior novels, or young adult novels, and should exemplify the strength and quality of children’s literature in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Founded in 2024, this award will be presented every two years, it complements the off-year of the Mallinson Rendel Illustrators Award, which recognises children’s illustrators. Both awards are not open for application and will be selected annually by independent panels.