The Aotearoa NZ Book Industry Awards celebrate the outstanding publishing, writing, and bookselling mahi taking place across the motu. These awards honour the creativity, dedication, and collaboration that bring stories to life and connect readers with books that matter.
Presented by Booksellers Aotearoa NZ and the Publishers Association of New Zealand (PANZ), the awards shine a spotlight on excellence across our vibrant book industry.
This is your year to bring your main character energy.
Step forward. Back your mahi. Put your work in the spotlight.
Someone has to win — and it could be you.
Winners will be announced at a special ceremony in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland on 25 July 2026.
Entries/nominations are now open for the following categories:
- Bookshop of the Year
- Publisher of the Year
- Bookselling Trailblazer
- Publishing Trailblazer
- Sales Professional of the Year
- Marketing & Publicity Strategy of the Year
The Booksellers Choice Awards, Audiobook of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Awards will also be presented on the night.
Key dates:
- Entries close - 17 April, 5pm
- Shortlists announced - 25 May
- Winners announced and ceremony - 25 July, Auckland