Dominic Hoey
Dominic Hoey is a poet, author and playwright currently living in Ōtautahi, Christchurch. His latest novel, 1985, was longlisted for the 2026 Ockham Book Award. His earlier books are Poor People With Money and his debut novel Iceland, which was a New Zealand bestseller and long-listed for the 2018 Ockham Book Award. His short story 1986 won the 2021 Sunday Star Times Short Story Award. His poetry collection is I Thought We’d Be Famous. Dominic has written and performed two one-person hit shows about his bone disease and his inability to get arts funding. In a former life, Dominic was an MC battle and slam-poetry champion. Through his Learn To Write Good creative writing course, Dominic has taught hundreds of students around the world how to think dyslexic. He also works with young people through the Atawhai program, teaching art, yoga and meditation to help them with their mental health and self-esteem. He has a small, vicious dog and dreams of one day owning an animal rescue farm.
2026 festival sessions
An Hour with Dominic Hoey
Dominic Hoey in conversation with Tania Miller
3.30pm-4.30pm, Saturday 25 July, Whitehaven Theatre Marlborough, $25
Dominic Hoey discusses his most recent acclaimed novels 1985 and Poor People With Money and looks back on his creative career from slam poetry champion to acclaimed novelist.
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Character Masterclass
Writing Workshop with Dominic Hoey
10.30am-12.30pm, Saturday 25 July, Te Kahu o Waipuna - Marlborough Library, $40
Novelist, poet, rapper and creative writing teacher Dominic Hoey shares techniques he uses all the time in his work, exercises to stretch your creativity, providing a good base into writing a short story or novel.