This three-part series for the Jubilee of Hope honors the creativity of artists across Aotearoa, showcasing their work over the years. Their art expresses hope—not as a passing feeling, but as a powerful force woven into every brushstroke, lyric, and story. These works embody the richness of Aotearoa’s cultural and spiritual heritage, continuing to inspire and uplift.

Writing has the power to inspire, uplift, and connect us. In Aotearoa, writers give voice to stories of hope, resilience, and faith, weaving words that reflect the richness of culture and the depth of human experience. Through poetry, fiction, and storytelling, they invite us to see the world anew and find meaning in every page.

Joy Cowley, one of New Zealand’s most cherished and prolific writers, has spent decades crafting stories that illuminate themes of hope, resilience, and spiritual growth. Cowley’s literary career spans children’s books, novels, short stories, and spiritual reflections, all infused with warmth and wisdom. She is internationally renowned for her contributions to children’s literature, particularly through beloved characters like Mrs. Wishy-Washy, which have helped generations of young readers discover the joy of storytelling. 

Beyond children’s books, Cowley’s writing explores deeper spiritual and human experiences. Her novels and reflective essays frequently touch on themes of transformation, kindness, and the sacredness of everyday life. Her spiritual works, such as Aotearoa Psalms, invite readers to find divine presence in nature and personal encounters. A devoted advocate for literacy and storytelling, she continues to inspire people of all ages to embrace the transformative power of words, imagination, and faith. 

Eileen Duggan, one of New Zealand’s most beloved poets, is celebrated for her lyrical verse, which captures themes of faith, nature, and national identity. Born in 1894 in Marlborough, Duggan was deeply influenced by her Irish Catholic heritage, and her poetry reflects a profound spirituality and connection to the land. Her works, published in collections such as Poems (1921) and New Zealand Bird Songs (1929), evoke a sense of reverence for nature and human resilience. 

Duggan’s poetry gained international recognition, with her work frequently appearing in literary journals across the United Kingdom and the United States. She was praised for her ability to infuse her verses with both gentle optimism and poignant reflection, often exploring themes of love, devotion, and the beauty of the New Zealand landscape. Her legacy is preserved in the NZETC Archive and other literary collections, where her words continue to inspire generations of readers with their enduring message of hope and faith. 

Bernadette Hall is a celebrated New Zealand poet whose work blends spirituality, history, and personal reflection. Raised in a Catholic family, her poetry often weaves Catholic imagery with meditations on faith, memory, and identity. 

A former teacher of Latin and classical studies, Hall’s writing is influenced by mythology and religious symbolism, exploring the intersection of sacred tradition and modern life. Her acclaimed collections, including The Persistent Levitator (1994) and Life & Customs (2013), are known for their lyrical depth and contemplative tone. 

Beyond her own work, Hall has mentored emerging poets and edited literary journals. Recognized for her contributions to New Zealand literature, she received the Prime Minister’s Award for Literary Achievement in Poetry in 2015. Her poetry continues to inspire with its rich spiritual and cultural resonance. 

Read a piece of her work here. 

Photo by Grianghraf on Unsplash

Click here to read Part 1 & Part 3 in this series.