One of the country's most distinguished writers has been chosen as New Zealand's new poet laureate.
Vincent O'Sullivan was nominated by his contemporaries and chosen by the Poet Laureate Advisory Group to promote New Zealand's poetry.
The poet, fiction writer and editor will succeed Wellington poet Ian Wedde.
Mr O'Sullivan says it is gratifying to be selected as it is an act of faith on the part of those who chose him.
He says the role will be a liberating experience and allow him to work more collaboratively with artists in other fields.
Mr O'Sullivan will also receive $100,000.
The group's chair, Chris Szekely, says Vincent O'Sullivan is a leading figure in poetry both here and internationally and will be a great champion for New Zealand poetry.
Mr Szekely says his poetry is accessible, intelligent and reaches a diverse ranges of audiences.