Keynote: Writing the Trail: Northbound with Naomi Arnold

Step into the wild with Naomi Arnold, critically acclaimed author and award-winning journalist, as she shares stories from her latest book, Northbound—a lyrical and honest account of walking Te Araroa, New Zealand’s longest trail, from Bluff to Cape Reinga. Over nine months on foot, Naomi traverses both physical landscapes and emotional terrain, weaving reflections on nature, science, solitude, and the art of storytelling. In conversation with journalist and WORD Christchurch director Kiran Dass, this event offers a rare encounter with one of Aotearoa’s most thoughtful nature writers. Includes an audience Q&A and book signing.

Spend Opening Night immersed in the arts on Friday the 12th of September with a special deal – purchase a bundle ticket for both the Opening Night Drinks with the Creatives, and Writing the Trail: Northbound with Naomi Arnold for only $45 (save $10).

Or book with a friend group of four, and get another ticket free (limited availability).

ABOUT THE STORY WORLDS FESTIVAL

Story Worlds is a new festival that invites audiences to experience storytelling as a rich, interconnected practice—through the written word, material culture, and oral traditions. Explore the programme, which stretches across Puke Ariki Museum, Libraries, and the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery | Len Lye Centre for four days of sessions that celebrate storytelling in all its forms and honour the ways stories help us make sense of ourselves, each other, and the world we share.

The Gallery is set over a number of levels, which are connected by ramps, stairs and an elevator. All spaces and facilities are mobility-friendly. We have manual wheelchairs available for use while at the Gallery, and mobility spaces available in the Len Lye Centre Cinema.

For more information on Gallery accessibility please visit Accessibility | Govett-Brewster Art Gallery | Len Lye Centre

This event will be held in the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery Cinema.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre, 42 Queen Street, New Plymouth, New Zealand