Explore careers

Useful experience for authors includes work:

• as a journalist
• in film, theatre or television
• involving writing
• involving artistic skills.

Authors may do some or all of the following:

• choose and research topics to write about
• write and revise their material
• prepare their work for publication and find a publisher or producer
• discuss further revisions with an editor
• publish their work online
• attend book launches and publicity events
• give public readings
• run writing classes.

Most authors need another source of income

Most authors in New Zealand do freelance work or only write part time, and supplement their income by working other jobs.

Getting published is difficult due to the large number of authors seeking publication and a reduction in the number of book publishers operating in New Zealand. However, completing a recognised tertiary writing course could improve your chances of being published or getting writing work.

According to the Census, 1710 authors worked in New Zealand in 2018.

Self-promotion important for authors

Authors need to be able to market themselves. Some are now publishing their work online, or blogging to build their brand and audience.

Authors commonly work for themselves

Most authors are self-employed.

Authors may use their writing skills in journalism, copywriting, scriptwriting or teaching, and work full time for employers such as:

• book publishers
• education institutions
• media outlets
• film, radio and television companies.

New Zealand Society of Authors

(09) 379 4801 - office@nzauthors.org.nz - www.authors.org.nz

Authors may move into journalism or public relations roles.

• Journalist job information
• Public relations professional job information

Authors can specialise in a number of roles, including:

Dramatist/Playwright

Dramatists/playwrights write scripts for plays and other theatre productions.

Non-fiction Author

Non-fiction authors write factual works such as books about historical events.

Novelist

Novelists write fiction books and may specialise in writing in a particular genre such as romance or science fiction.

Poet

Poets write poems, usually published in collections of works.

Scriptwriter

Scriptwriters write scripts for television and film.

Authors need to be:

• imaginative and creative
• disciplined
• inquisitive and good at observation and listening
• able to accept criticism
• adaptable
• skilled at research and planning
• problem solvers
• happy working on their own.