The Listening Library

Great New Zealand books to listen to whenever you want them.

Produced by Duncan Smith

Cover image with olive green and cream tones featuring the text 'The Listening Library' in bold white serif font, and 'Audiobook Collection' in smaller text above. Stylized vertical book spines line the right side of the image.

RNZ exclusive

This podcast is only available on the RNZ website and apps, ad‑free and uninterrupted.

Harbouring (Part 1) by Jenny Pattrick

A Game of Cards by Witi Ihimaera

Season 6 / Episode 1
Pounamu Pounamu is classic Ihimaera, and also classic New Zealand literature. "A Game of Cards" is a short story written by Witi Ihimaera in 1972 that tells the story of a young man who returns home and visits his sick grandmother Miro who loves to play card games.
Book cover for Pounamu Pounamu

Beginning of the Tournament by Witi Ihimaera

Season 6 / Episode 2
The narrator's father calls asking him to come home to bolster the team numbers in the local hockey tournament.

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Fire on Greenstone by Witi Ihimaera

Season 6 / Episode 3
A story about family and a treasured whanau house which holds many items of historic significance to the whanau.

In Search of the Emerald City by Witi Ihimaera

Season 6 / Episode 4
A story about a Māori family who leave their whanau and roots behind to seek the opportunities of the big city.

The Child by Witi Ihimaera

Season 6 / Episode 5
A story about a devoted and loving relationship between a young boy and his grandmother. Who is caring for who?

Tangi by Witi Ihimaera

Season 6 / Episode 6
A story about a young man and his father at a three day tangihanga. It is an account of death but also an affirmation of life.

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