An Evening with the Poet Laureate

The Arrowtown Creative Arts Society and Queenstown Writers Festival are excited to present New Zealand Poet Laureate Chris Tse, performing alongside local poets, for one night only.

Chris Tse is a New Zealand poet, short story writer and editor. His works explore questions of identity, including his Chinese heritage and queer identity. Tse was named New Zealand’s 13th Poet Laureate (2022-2025).

Chris will be reading selections from his previous collections, plus new poems written during his time as Poet Laureate that focus on how we capture and express joy, particularly during times of crisis and uncertainty. Local poets will also share the stage with Chris for this special event.