Auckland Libraries

Alison is joined in the studio by author Michael Bennett, to discuss his novel Carved in Blood, the third instalment in the gripping Hana Westerman series. Carved in Blood is published by Simon & Schuster and can be borrowed from Bestie collection displays in all Auckland Council libraries or requested from the Auckland Libraries catalogue https://bit.ly/3H48jtm This interview was recorded for Auckland Council Libraries' We Read Auckland festival of Auckland's readers and writers, celebrated 1 - 31 August 2025. Visit aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/WeReadAKL for more details.

Alison is joined in the studio by author Diana Wichtel, to discuss her memoir Unreel: A life in review, published by Penguin. Diana is an award-winning reviewer and bestselling author of Driving to Treblinka. Unreel is a brilliantly funny, achingly nostalgic memoir of a life spent watching and writing. Unreel can be borrowed from Bestie collection displays in all Auckland Council libraries or requested from the Auckland Libraries catalogue https://bit.ly/4m4TsOg This interview was recorded for Auckland Council Libraries' We Read Auckland festival of Auckland's readers and writers, celebrated 1 - 31 August 2025. Visit aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/WeReadAKL for more details.

On Saturday 28 June in celebration of Matariki and as part of our Tāmaki Untold series, Auckland Libraries hosted a conversation between Roimata Smail, author of ‘Understanding Te Tiriti’ and Avril Bell, author of ‘Becoming Tangata Tiriti’. The two authors discussed the meaning of Te Tiriti and how we can work on better honouring this foundational document. The rich conversation and exploration of ideas, offer listeners a conversational glimpse into the detail of the books' content. Listen in to the conversation here and follow the links below for access to further reading. Understanding Te Tirit - Roimata Smail https://discover.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/search/card?id=13e92daf-1efc-5609-8139-601169f69151&entityType=FormatGroup Becoming Tangata Tiriti - Avril Bell https://discover.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/search/card?id=c360b902-8e03-563a-933e-9b559553871b&entityType=FormatGroup Follow Auckland Libraries for regular Tāmaki Untold conversations and other Heritage and Research events. www.aucklandlibrari

In this track Sue Berman talks with Tania Mace about her research into early inner city Auckland neighbourhoods. Tania talks about her history research interests, her approach to documentary heritage material, her discoveries and the opportunities for research still to come. Tania's research was undertaken with the support of the Auckland Libraries Heritage Trust - John Stacpoole Scholarship and through the use of the Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections. Listen to the associated oral history clips - https://soundcloud.com/auckland-libraries/sets/lost-neighbourhoods-of Read about Tania's research findings on Heritage et AL https://heritageetal.blogspot.com/2025/05/lost-neighbourhoods-of-central-auckland.html Information about the ALHT John Stacpoole Scholarship here: https://heritageetal.blogspot.com/2025/05/auckland-library-heritage-trust-john.html Read: Tania's recent publication The near west : a history of Grey Lynn, Arch Hill and Westmere https://discover.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/search/ca

Explore space, time, and technology in science fiction through indigenous lenses with award-winning author Dr Gina Cole (Black Ice Matter; Na Viro) and writer, critic and producer, Dan Taipua. Dr. Gina Cole is an award-winning author of Fijian, Scottish and Welsh descent. Her collection Black Ice Matter won the Hubert Church Prize for Best First Book Fiction in 2017. Her science fiction fantasy novel Na Viro (Huia, 2022) is a work of Pasifikafuturism following sisters wayfinding through sea and space. Awarded the 2023 Fulbright-Creative New Zealand Pacific Writer’s Residency in 2023, she is currently working on the second book in her Turukawa Trilogy. Dan Taipua (Waikato-Tainui) is a writer and critic working in Tāmaki Makaurau. His interests cross through art history, popular culture and Te Ao Māori with a particular focus on futurism and imagined worlds. In 2015, Dan Taipua and Sophie Wilson produced the documentary Aotearoa Futurism for RNZ Music, interviewing Māori and Pasifika artists whose works explo

In this bonus track join host Sue Berman as she talks with Florette Cardon, Senior Library Research Assistant and exhibition curator researcher. Florette tells the story of how she came to dig deep into the world of Science Fiction art and design, leading her to discover and celebrate the work of Auckland born artist Mike Hinge. See the exhibition on the Ground Floor of the Central City Library until the end of April or read more here: https://heritageetal.blogspot.com/2025/03/the-legacy-of-mike-hinge.html Visit the onsite exhibition and join us in a series of events and activations: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worl…exhibition For recommended reads visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-reads Image: Florette Cardon in the exhibition, Central City Library, March 2025. Produced by Sue Berman and JL.

This clip is drawn from an oral history with Suzanne Chan On as part of the From Guangdong to Aotearoa Collection. In this snippet Suzanne talks about activities seen and unseen. She describes shops, gambling and opium dens in the Greys Avenue neighbourhood. See the exhibition: Lost Neighbourhoods of Central Auckland on Level 2 of the Central City Library April - May 2025 Suzanne Chan On, oral history, 2014, interviewer Sue Gee, From Guangdong to Aotearoa Collection, Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections, OH-1133-003 Image: Accompany material from OH-1133-003.

This clip is drawn from an oral history with Suzanne Chan On as part of the From Guangdong to Aotearoa Collection. In this snippet Suzanne talks about the area and the people who came into Ann’s Dairy. See the exhibition: Lost Neighbourhoods of Central Auckland on Level 2 of the Central City Library April - May 2025 Suzanne Chan On, oral history, 2014, interviewer Sue Gee, From Guangdong to Aotearoa Collection, Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections, OH-1133-003 Image: Accompany material from OH-1133-003.

In this episode of Other Worlds, we explore some of the most iconic works of dystopian and utopian literature and the value of reading these works within the science fiction genre. Joining Sue Berman to discuss this theme is Other Worlds exhibition curator Renee Orr. We talk about Aldous Huxley's 'Brave New World', Margaret Atwood’s 'The Handmaid's Tale', the utopian vision of Charlotte Perkins Gilman in 'Herland' and the 1970s classic, Marge Piercy’s 'Woman on the Edge of Time'. Visit the onsite exhibition and join us in a series of events and activations: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-exhibition For recommended reads visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-reads Books mentioned in the podcast: Aldous Huxley, with illustrations by Leonard Rosoman. Brave new world. London: Folio Society, 1971. Arthur C. Clarke, Childhood’s end. London: Pan Books, 1961. Charlotte Perkins Gilman. Herland. New York: Pantheon Books, 1979. Margaret Atwood. The handmaid’s tale. London: Jonathan Cape, 198

In this episode of Other Worlds, we discuss an important part of the history and development of the science fiction genre - the power and influence of fans! To discuss this, Sue Berman is joined by Other Worlds exhibition curator, Andrew Henry. We examine how the influence of fandom has helped shape and define science fiction since its inception as a genre, and just how integral the fan base is to the development of seminal works. Visit the onsite exhibition and join us in a series of events and activations: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-exhibition For recommended reads visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-reads Books mentioned in the podcast: Julius Vogel. Anno Domini 2000, or, Woman's destiny. London: Hutchinson, 1889. Sascha Stronach. The dawnhounds. Wellington: Little Hook Press, 2019. Larry Niven. Ringworld. London: Sphere, 1973. Amazing stories, vol. 21, no. 4. Chicago: Ziff-Davis, April 1947. Amazing stories, vol. 25, no. 10. Chicago: Ziff-Davis, October 1951. Astoun

In this episode of Other Worlds, we explore the literary convergence of science fiction and science fact. To explore this theme, Sue Berman is joined by Other Worlds exhibition curator Andrew Henry. We discuss the exciting crossroads between science fiction and real world scientific developments, illustrated through published material that intone seer-like qualities to the authors - everything from consumer electronics to future war machines. Visit the onsite exhibition and join us in a series of events and activations: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-exhibition For recommended reads visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-reads Books mentioned in the podcast: H.G. Wells. ‘The Land Ironclads’. From: The Strand magazine, vol. 26, no. 156. London: G. Newnes, 1903. Radio craft, vol. 10, no. 5. New York: Gernsback Publications, November 1938. Startling stories, no. 10. Manchester: Pemberton's, 1952. Astounding science fiction, vol. 10, no. 4. London: Atlas, April 1954. Analog, vol. 101, n

In this episode of Other Worlds, we explore the notion of Inner Worlds by looking closely at the idea of inner space vs. outer space - the power and problems of our own minds. Exploring these ideas with Sue Berman is Other Worlds exhibition curator Andrew Henry. We discuss a range of texts including 'Return to Tomorrow' and 'Dianetics' by L. Ron Hubbard, 'The World of Null-A' by A.E. Van Vogt, and 'The Dreaming Jewels' by Theodore Sturgeon as well as the well-known Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic 'Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde'. Visit the onsite exhibition and join us in a series of events and activations: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-exhibition For recommended reads visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-reads Books mentioned in the podcast: L. Ron Hubbard, Return to tomorrow. London: Hamilton, 1957. L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics: the evolution of a science. London: Hubbard Association of Scientologists International Limited, 1958. A.E. Van Vogt, The world of Null-A. New York: Ace Books

In this episode of Other Worlds, we delve into the fascinating world of robots and monsters, and the intersection of science fiction writing and pop culture. Robots and monsters have clearly captivated the imagination of writers and artists for centuries, to discuss this theme is Other Worlds exhibition curator Renee Orr. We discuss magazines with evocative cover art, 19th and 20th century classics like Mary Shelley’s 'Frankenstein' and Frank Herbert’s 'Dune', and objects like the Blade runner origami unicorn and a gorilla soldier from Planet of the Apes. Visit the onsite exhibition and join us in a series of events and activations: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-exhibition For recommended reads visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-reads Books mentioned in the podcast: Astounding science fiction, vol. 7, no. 1. London: Atlas, January 1950. Mary Shelley, with engravings on wood by Lynd Ward. Frankenstein: or, The modern Prometheus. New York: Harrison Smith and Robert Haas, 193

In this episode of Other Worlds, we discuss colonisation, a theme explored through science fiction writing. Joining Sue Berman to discuss this theme is Other Worlds exhibition curator Renee Orr. We talk about how writers have used science fiction to explore very real and complex aspects of human society and history, and, how the themes of invasion, colonisation, language and cultural difference come up again and again in speculative fiction. Visit the onsite exhibition and join us in a series of events and activations: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-exhibition For recommended reads visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-reads Books mentioned in the podcast: Alaisea Fa'alafi Iosefa. Malaga I le vanimonimo = A trip to space. Los Angeles: National Dissemination and Assessment Center, 1980. Liu Cixin. 三体. II, 黑暗森林 / 刘慈欣著. San ti. II, Hei an sen lin. The three-body problem II: The dark forest. Chongqing: Chongqing chu ban she, 2008. Ursula K. Le Guin. The left hand of darkness. London:

In this episode of Other Worlds, we explore the theme and concept ‘The Empty City’. This theme stretches across time, art, literature, and imagination as we examine the many ways that the empty city, or the city emptied of its people, has been represented in science fiction. Joining Sue Berman to discuss this theme is Other Worlds exhibition curator Andrew Henry. Visit the onsite exhibition and join us in a series of events and activations: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-exhibition For recommended reads visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-reads Books mentioned in the podcast: Gustave Doré and Blanchard Jerrold. London: a pilgrimage. London: Grant, 1872. Europa's fate, or, The coming struggle: a history lesson in New Zealand A.D. 2076. London: Griffith and Farran, 1875. Nevil Shute. On the beach. Melbourne: Heinemann, 1957. Craig Harrison. The quiet earth. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1981. New worlds SF, vol. 49, no. 152. London: Roberts & Vinter, July 1965. Samuel R. Delany, D

In this episode of Other Worlds, we explore how the mysterious red planet has fascinated writers and scientists for centuries. Mars has inspired many different narratives, including Martian invasions, philosophical reflections on life beyond Earth, visions of terraforming and colonisation. Joining Sue Berman to discuss the works of H.G. Wells to modern depictions of a colonised Mars in Kim Stanley Robinson’s 'Green Mars' and many more great reads, is Other Worlds exhibition curator Renee Orr. Visit the onsite exhibition and join us in a series of events and activations: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-exhibition For recommended reads visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-reads Books mentioned in the podcast: H. G. Wells. The war of the worlds. London: William Heinemann, 1898. LP booklet. Jeff Wayne’s musical version of 'The war of the worlds', 1978. Cover illustration by Mike Trim. On loan from a private collection. Louis Pope Gratacap. The certainty of a future life in Mars: be

In this episode of Other Worlds, we look Beyond Books into the fascinating world of science fiction related pop culture, and the artefacts that bring these worlds to life. We check out pop up books and bubble gum cards, 8mm film, figurines and LPs in this romp through collectables and material culture. To look at this theme I am joined by Other Worlds exhibition activation curator Brent Giblin. Visit the onsite exhibition and join us in a series of events and activations: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-exhibition For recommended reads visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-reads Books mentioned in the podcast: Reproduction cards of science fiction pulp magazines. 1980s. Eph-Books. Return of the Jedi bubblegum collector card, 1983. On loan from a private collection. Conquest of the planet of the apes Super 8 film cases, 1974. On loan from a private collection. Blade runner, Westwood Studios, 1997. On loan from a private collection. LP. Patea Māori Club. Aku raukura. Hawera: Maui, 1

In this first episode of Other Worlds, we discuss one of the most important and thought-provoking books of the 20th century — Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. First published in 1953 as a short story called 'Fahrenheit 451', this novel has captivated generations of readers with its chilling portrayal of a dystopian world of book burning. Beyond its gripping narrative, Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 offers us a powerful reflection on censorship and the importance of intellectual freedoms. To discuss this masterpiece, Sue Berman is joined by Other Worlds exhibition curator, Renee Orr. Visit the onsite exhibition and join us in a series of events and activations: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-exhibition For recommended reads visit: www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/Other-Worlds-reads Books mentioned in the podcast: Ray Bradbury, illustrated by Joseph Mugnaini. Fahrenheit 451. New York: Limited Editions Club, 1982. Music credit: https://www.melodyloops.com/tracks/space-harmony/ Image from: Cover of Ray

The Creed from Rev Thomas Kendell's "A Grammar and vocabulary of the language of New Zealand" Church Mission Society London: Printed by R. Watts. 1820 GNZM 3i Ref: https://discover.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/search/card?id=68d5e7a6-f145-588a-819c-a36e2deca81e&entityType=FormatGroup Read by Maureen Ned on the theme Reo Ako Recorded in support of the Waiwaia Ngā Ngutu Exhibition 2024 For more information about the exhibition: https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/events/2024/09/waiwaia-nga-ngutu/

He himene mo te karakia ki te Atua Nepia: Na te Haaringi i ta ki tona whare perehi pukapuka "Enlarged collection ('third edition') of 175 Anglican hymns" Hymn no. 94 1887 NZM 735 Ref: https://discover.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/search/card?id=78d627d0-d835-5a89-814c-3194ffc963f1&entityType=FormatGroup Read and sung by Xavier Forsman on the theme Reo Hahi. Recorded in support of the Waiwaia Ngā Ngutu Exhibition 2024 For more information about the exhibition:https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/events/2024/09/waiwaia-nga-ngutu/