Katherine Mansfield Awards Close Wednesday

Katherine Mansfield Awards Close Wednesday 30 June

Budding writers – that $10,000 flash of inspiration better come quick. The Bank of New Zealand Katherine Mansfield Awards close Wednesday 30 June 2004.

Andrew Whitechurch, Bank of New Zealand’s general manager for business development and strategy, says it’s not uncommon for writers to submit their stories at the last minute.

“Over 90 percent of entries are received in the final two weeks of the competition, so there’s certainly still time for writers to get their entries in.”

Mr Whitechurch says at this late stage, writers may wish to submit their entries online at www.bnz.co.nz.

“This will ensure their entries are received instantaneously by the organising committee. People put a lot of effort and inspiration into writing their stories and we wouldn’t want them to miss out because their story was delayed in the post.

“It also gives writers that extra few hours to put the finishing touches to their piece.”

Mr Whitechurch says there has been an increase in the amount of interest in this year’s awards, and Bank of New Zealand has been putting particular emphasis on getting school pupils involved.

“Bank of New Zealand is making strong inroads into the youth market, and part of our approach is to encourage and foster success amongst today’s youth. Who knows, we may be able to spot a budding Katherine Mansfield amongst the talent.”

The Katherine Mansfield Awards were established in 1959 and are New Zealand’s premier short story competition. Previous winners include Frank Sargeson, Keri Hulme and CK Stead.

There are three categories for writers to take part in: Bank of New Zealand Katherine Mansfield Award (prize $10,000) Bank of New Zealand Novice Writers Award (prize $1,500) Bank of New Zealand Young Writers Award (prize $1,500, $1,500 given to the winning school, and a creative writing workshop hosted by a New Zealand writer.)
Each section is judged anonymously by respected New Zealand writers. Their identity is only revealed when entries have closed.

Winners will be announced on 14 October 2004.

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