Dr Sarah Sandley, Chair of the Auckland Writers & Readers Festival is delighted to announce the appointment of Anne O’Brien as Artistic Director of the organisation.

“We are so grateful to Stephanie Johnson for her excellent work as acting Artistic Director and delighted to have Anne O’Brien join us,” Sarah Sandley says.

Anne O’Brien will be working closely with General Manager Anne Rodda who oversees all the non-artistic aspects of the business.

Anne Rodda adds, “I am so looking forward to having Anne join our small team. I do find it remarkable that we have the same christian name and hope it isn’t too confusing for everyone!”

Anne O’Brien brings to the Festival a wealth of experience in the literary festival sector, taking over from Jill Rawnsley who was at the Festival for the last decade,These are matched with exceptional producer skills and extensive arts and literature networks.   She has a degree in English Literature and a Diploma in Journalism and has previously managed the NZ International Arts Festival's six-day literary festival, as well as producing Nine to Noon with Kim Hill for National Radio.  More recently, Anne spent three years as the Executive Director of Women in Film and Television NZ. 

"I'm excited and honoured to join the Auckland Writers & Readers Festival team.  The power of the written word to delight and console us, as well as reflect, expand and challenge our thinking, is one of the inspirations of my life.  I have loved reading from the time I was old enough to sneak out of bed and squeeze myself into the small alcove by the door so as to catch the light from the hallway and finish my book! I'm looking forward to the privilege of programming this successful Festival over the coming years, building on the tremendous work that has gone into establishing it as one of New Zealand's premiere arts endeavours," Anne says.