Twenty-six New Zealand authors secured spots on the 2026 Whitcoulls Top 100 Books List, marking the strongest domestic performance in the list’s nearly 30-year history. According to Whitcoulls book manager Joan Mackenzie, the results reflect a record number of votes and a surge in reader interest for local voices and relatable storytelling.
The Rise of Local Authors in the 2026 Rankings
New Zealand writers claimed over a quarter of the total positions on the 2026 list. Dr. Lucy Hone, a resilience researcher, achieved the highest ranking among local authors, placing sixth with her book How Will I Ever Get Through This? Other notable local entries include Anna Cameron’s Just a Mum’s Kitchen (7), Hira Nathan’s Māori Ora (13), and the late Nigel Latta’s Lessons on Living (19).
The list also features high-profile figures, including former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern at number 60 with A Different Kind of Power and TVNZ Pacific correspondent Barbara Dreaver, whose book Be Brave debuted at number 90. Mackenzie noted that the influx of new titles indicates a “major refresh” and shows that readers are actively engaging with a dynamic range of new literature.
Did you know?
Fantasy remains the dominant genre among readers. The Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros held the top spot for the second year, while Sarah J. Maas secured both second and third place with her A Court of Thorns and Roses and Throne of Glass series.
Genre Trends and Reader Preferences
Fiction accounted for 78 of the 100 titles on the list, with series-based books proving particularly popular. Of these fiction entries, 30 are part of a series, and 26 belong specifically to the fantasy genre. Beyond fantasy, the list reflects a diverse interest in romance, classics, self-help, and motivational literature.
The 2026 rankings also highlight a variety of non-fiction themes. James Laughlin’s Habits of High Performers (23) and Kelsey Waghorn’s Surviving White Island (28) represent the strong showing for works. Meanwhile, classic literature remains a staple, with Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice holding the tenth position.
Future Outlook for New Zealand Literature
According to Mackenzie, the “voracious appetites” for stories that resonate with the Kiwi experience are driving these record-breaking numbers. The appearance of new authors like Catherine Chidgey, who landed at number 50 with The Book of Guilt, suggests that the market for domestic publishing remains robust.
If you are looking for your next read, consider exploring the top-ranked local non-fiction titles. These books often provide unique cultural insights and practical advice specifically tailored to the New Zealand context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which book took the top spot in 2026?
The Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros received the most votes, claiming the number one position for the second year in a row.
How many New Zealand authors made the list?
Twenty-six New Zealand authors were featured in the 2026 Whitcoulls Top 100 Books List, which is the highest number in the history of the survey.
What is the most popular genre on the list?
Fiction dominates the list with 78 titles, with fantasy being the most popular sub-genre, accounting for 26 of those fiction entries.
Are you a fan of local literature? Share your favorite New Zealand book from the 2026 list in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on the local publishing scene.
Worth a look