A strategic plan for Aotearoa’s Book Sector

Thank you to all our members who provided thoughts and feedback for the work the Coalition is doing, collaboratively across the sector, on a five year strategic plan.  

In October we took the first step in this process, holding a small hui with representatives from each segment of the book sector, to gather thoughts and perspectives for a whole-sector strategic plan. It was a really positive and productive day and it was exciting to hear the ideas in the room and see the real desire to work together. 

In November we held two Zoom hui, bringing a wider group including many Coalition members up to speed on the discussions and priorities raised at the hui. Next, an online form was distributed widely to gather further feedback.

Currently, plan writer Janette Searle is working on a draft, incorporating the priorities raised at the October hui and the perspectives provided via the online feedback. 

It’s been a timely undertaking. This work directly connects to the government’s work on Amplify: A Creative and Cultural Strategy for New Zealand — and the submission the Coalition made last week on Amplify was informed by the feedback and views gathered over the book sector strategy work.

Next steps: a working document is in the pipeline and we aim to have a final plan by March 2025.