Storylines is delighted to present an afternoon of creativity, imagination and inspiration at our Story Sparks Writing and Illustration Workshops as part of the Storylines te Tai Tokerau/ Northland Story Tour.
This special event offers young writers and young illustrators (Yr3 – Yr13) the chance to learn directly from some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most talented authors and illustrators.
📅 Date: Saturday 8 August 2026
🕐 Duration: 1.5 hours
📍 Venue: Multiple venues – check below for details
💲 Cost: FREE – we are delighted to let you know that all workshops are free due to OneTree House publishers and an anonymous donor.
Join us for an afternoon filled with hands-on workshops, new skills and plenty of inspiration to spark your next great story or artist.
Inangaro Vakaafi
Time: 12.30pm
Venue: Taipa Area School
For: Yr3-Yr6
Niu Tupu Adventures
Discover ‘Niu’ coconuts, island life and creativity through weaving and nature-inspired drawing.
Bring a writing pad/ paper/ book and pen.
Paul Beavis
Time: 12.30pm
Venue: Ahipara School
For: Yr4-Yr7
How Pictures Tell Stories
Learn how illustrators use pictures to create stories without words.
Bring A3 paper, pencils and something to lean paper on
Tim Tipene
Time: 12.30pm
Venue: Kaitaia Intermediate School
For: Yr7+
Creating with Words
Unlocking creativity and practical skills for writing and storytelling.
Bring a writing pad/ paper/ book and a pen
Sponsored by:
Shilo Kino
Time: 12.30pm
Venue: Taipa Area School
For: Yr7+
Finding Your Unique Voice
Explore what makes your voice unique and learn how to make your stories shine.
Bring a writing pad/ paper/ book and pen
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity!
Whether you love writing or drawing, these workshops will help you grow your skills, meet other creative tamariki and rangatahi, and learn from inspiring mentors.
👉 Complete the form below to register your place.
What to bring: Water bottle, snacks, and something to write on (pen/paper or device). Illustration attendees should bring their favourite illustration tools (which can be pen/pencils or a device)
Lift Another Voice – Sponsor a Seat
Help open the door for a young storyteller. By sponsoring a seat, you can purchase a ticket that enables a child from a local school – where the workshop is being held – to attend and take part. Your support gives them the chance to explore their creativity, build confidence and experience the joy of storytelling alongside others. It’s a simple act that can spark a lifelong love of reading, writing or illustrating.
Pay it forward and help lift another voice!
Sponsor a Workshop. Inspire Young Creators.
Are you a children’s publisher, community organisation, business or writing group looking to make a real impact?
For just $300, you can sponsor an entire Storylines Story Sparks Workshop – giving tamariki and rangatahi the opportunity to learn from leading Aotearoa New Zealand authors and illustrators. ✍️🎨📚
Your support helps remove barriers, sparks creativity, and encourages the next generation of storytellers.
💛 Help fill every seat with imagination and opportunity.
Interested in becoming a workshop sponsor? Get in touch today!