We are delighted to announce that our 2025 children's writer in residence is Barbara Uini.
Barbara Uini
Barbara Uini is a writer, artist, and teacher based in Tāmaki Makaurau. She holds a BA in English, History, and Māori Studies from Massey University and a Master of Creative Writing from the University of Auckland. Some of Barbara’s short stories have found homes in anthologies and her art has been featured in coloured pencil masterworks books. She loves children’s books and illustrations, dreaming up stories and playing with words.
We’re delighted to be offering this three-week residency opportunity to support a children’s writer! Applications are welcomed from children’s writers who live in Aotearoa and are writing books for children, of any age, including picture books, junior and middle grade, and young adult fiction and nonfiction.
Dates
The residency takes place Monday 25 August - Sunday 14 September.
Where
In Te Whanganui a Tara.
Accommodation
At Sexton Cottage, a beautifully restored heritage building, close to Wellington’s Botanic Gardens (two-bedrooms).
Stipend
$1,300 per week (gst included).
Travel contribution
Contribution to travel will be arranged with the successful recipient.
Mentoring
Verb is pleased to offer an option of tailored mentoring for the successful recipient. Mentoring will be for up to 8 hours and could be for any element of the project, as decided by the resident and mentor. Verb will match the successful recipient with a mentor who best suits them.
During the residency
Verb will provide opportunities for the resident to meet with local writers. We will also discuss the option of an end-of-residency conversation, workshop or reading. This will be decided with the resident and only take place if desired and suits the project.
Further information
Please note there is a $10 administration fee required for the application (via the application button, above). If you have any questions, please feel free to email us.