Dunedin opens the call for applications for an international literary residency

The city of Dunedin, recognised as a UNESCO City of Literature, has announced the call for the Caselberg Trust Margaret Egan Cities of Literature Writers Residency 2025. This literary residency, jointly organised by the Caselberg Trust and the Dunedin UNESCO City of Literature, provides an opportunity for writers from around the world to immerse themselves in the literary and cultural environment of New Zealand.

The residency is open to writers of any genre, language or scope of work from other UNESCO Cities of Literature. It is not necessary to complete the project during the stay, which allows participants to focus on the creative process without pressure. The residency lasts six weeks, from 2 October to 13 November 2025. Selected participants will stay at Caselberg House, located in Broad Bay, an area that offers a peaceful and inspiring environment for literary creation.

The selected writer will receive a grant of NZ$4,000 (approximately €2,200) to cover expenses during the stay. An additional NZ$3,000 (approximately €1,600) will be provided for travel expenses.

Applications for the 2025 residency are open until 7 April. Interested applicants must submit a detailed proposal of the project they wish to develop during the residency, as well as a sample of their previous work. Special value will be given to the originality, literary quality and relevance of the proposed project. The results will be announced on 7 May.

For more information on the call and application requirements, visit the official Dunedin UNESCO City of Literature website.