Brian Turner new poet laureate

Central Otago man Brian Turner has won the position of New Zealand Poet Laureate, Associate Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Judith Tizard announced today.

The position, developed by the International Institute of Modern Letters at Victoria University and Te Mata Estate vineyard, began in 1996.

Pressor Bill Manhire, director of the institute and himself a renowned writer, said the choice was perfect.

"Brian is actually the ideal laureate. He's a wonderful writer, admired by his peers," Prof Manhire said.

"But he also has a large popular following, and this must have something to do with the fact that for him, poetry isn't something that lives in lecture halls, but is a normal part of a rich, full life."

Prof Manhire called his poems "quiet, laconic, and expertly crafted."

Mr Turner, 44, from Oturehua, 25km northwest of Ranfurly, Central Otago, is the brother of former New Zealand cricket coach Glenn Turner and golfer Greg Turner.

Brian Turner has also represented this country in hockey.

He not only writes poetry, but also discusses recreation, sport and environmental, political and social issues.

"One of my roles as a poet, as I see it, is to try to convince more people that language is precious and uplifting, that poetry is written by real people with important things to say, and that as such it is indispensable, and enriches our lives," he said.

Mr Turner has won other awards for his writing, including Ladders of Rain (1978), which won the Commonwealth Poetry Prize, and Beyond (1992), which won him the New Zealand Book Award for poetry. He also won the Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council's prestigious Scholarship in Letters.

The appointment runs for two years and allows for writers to produce their own verse and work to enhance the public profile of New Zealand poetry, especially through secondary school visits and other public engagements.

The writer receives a travel fund for that purpose and a tokotoko, or ceremonial carved walking stick, symbolising their achievement and mana.

Mr Turner takes over the role from Elizabeth Smither.

- NZPA