Welcome to the Poetry Comp!

Who are you when no one’s watching—and who do you let the world see?

This year’s theme is Mirrors & Masks, and what you do with it is entirely up to you. There are no rules, no pressure, and no “right” way to write. Whether it’s polished, messy, funny, raw, or somewhere in between—if it’s yours, it belongs here.

This competition is open to all University of Otago and Otago Polytechnic students—whether you’ve been writing for years or have never tried poetry before. If you’re feeling a bit nervous, that’s kind of the point. This is a low-stakes, supportive space to give it a go, put something out there, and maybe surprise yourself.

All entries will be displayed during Art Week, turning your words into part of a shared creative space on campus. We’ll also have some light, casual judging from local writers and academics—but this isn’t about being the “best.” It’s about expression, curiosity, and celebrating the creative voices around us.

Play with identity. Hide behind it. Reveal it. Question it.

Never written a poem before? Perfect. This is your sign.

You can enter up to 2 poems to be judged, and displayed as part of the OUSA Art Week in August. 

Poems can be of any style, so long as they represent this years theme.

 

* Both Otago Uni and Otago Polytech Student can enter this comp