Leading New Zealand writers honoured at the 2008 Prime Minister's Awards for Literary Achievement

Three of New Zealand‘s most celebrated writers were honoured on Tuesday night at the 2008 Prime Minister's Awards for Literary Achievement held at Premier House in Wellington.
These three writers were recognised in the categories of Poetry - Elizabeth Smither; Fiction - Lloyd Jones and Non-Fiction - WH Oliver.
Prime Minister Helen Clark said the writers have all added something special to New Zealand's cultural landscape through their work.
"These awards were created to recognise those who have made an enduring contribution to literature in New Zealand. Their work reflects the nuances and subtleties of what it is to be a New Zealand writer. From the uniqueness of this country and the people who live here to worlds beyond these shores, their work adds depth and richness to our literary traditions."
The Prime Minister's Awards for Literary Achievement were established in 2003. Every year, New Zealanders are invited to nominate their choice of an outstanding writer who has made a significant contribution to New Zealand literature in the genres of non-fiction, poetry and fiction. The nominations are assessed by an expert literary panel and recommendations forwarded to the Council of Creative New Zealand for approval. Each writer receives $60,000 in recognition of their significant contribution to New Zealand literature. The Awards are administered by Creative New Zealand.

For more information see the Creative New Zealand press release on their website.