A full house for Biology Field Trip!

By Dunedin Public Libraries | Posted: Friday Jun 26, 2026

Last night the cold stayed firmly outside while a warm crowd gathered on the 4th floor of the City Library to celebrate the launch of Biology Field Trip, the new poetry collection by Dunedin's own Jenny Powell — acclaimed poet, writer, teacher, and our City of Literature South D Poet Lorikeet.

The collection invites readers on a journey beneath the surface of the natural world — rafting alongside Kororā Little Blue Penguins , taking flight with Ngaro Huruhuru Native Bees , and even meeting the world's rarest whale . Jenny's signature blend of acute observation, imaginative flair and gentle humour was on full display as she read to the room.

With a warm welcome from Nicky Page, Director of Ōtepoti Dunedin UNESCO City of Literature, the evening was led by Roger Hickin as MC — New Zealand visual artist, poet, translator, book designer and publisher, whose Lyttelton-based Cold Hub Press published the collection. Jenny was also joined by the wonderful Kay McKenzie Cooke and Paddy Richardson for a generous conversation , with books selling fast courtesy of the University Book Shop Otago — and Jenny on hand to sign copies for readers .

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who braved the chill and joined us — and to Roger and Cold Hub Press, and Ōtepoti UNESCO City of Literature, for helping bring this special evening together.