5 Aotearoa/New Zealand fantasy publishers accepting manuscript submissions in January 2025

My worldwide list of fantasy publishers can be found here.

You’ve written your fantasy novel and now it’s time to pitch it to a publisher! Sadly, there aren’t many options for Aotearoa/New Zealand-based fantasy writers but there are definitely publishers who are keen to hear more about the world you’ve created. All of the publishers listed are currently (or were at the time I compiled this list!) accepting manuscripts without a literary agent.

Don’t forget to check out my developmental editing services or pre-querying package if you want to make sure your novel is in top shape before you sent it to a publisher for consideration. I offer a variety of services to suit all budgets, from writers looking for the standard developmental editing experience to those seeking high-level feedback and a quick turnaround time.

I update this list at the end of each month so please subscribe to my monthly newsletter if you’d like to be notified of the next month’s Aotearoa/New Zealand publishers accepting fantasy submissions.

1. Little Moa

   Little Moa is an imprint of Hachette Aotearoa New Zealand which champions diverse voices.
   Genre: Fiction, nonfiction, and children's books with a strong New Zealand connection.
   Word count: Varies by genre.

2. Penguin Random House New Zealand

   Penguin Random House New Zealand celebrates writers, stories and ideas that entertain and inspire.
   Genre: Adult fiction and nonfiction. Children's submissions are closed until 2025.
   Word count: Around 80,000 words (guideline).

3. Moa Books

   Moa Press is an imprint of Hachette Aotearoa New Zealand who champion the diverse voices of writers across Aotearoa New Zealand.
   Genre: Fiction.
   Word count: Not stated.

4. Bateman Books

   Bateman Books specialises in illustrated nonfiction but they publish novels of all genres.
   Genre: All genres except poetry.
   Word count: Not stated.

5. Huia Publishers

   Huia Publishers is a Māori owned publisher who shares stories that resonate with their people and values.
   Genre: Books centered in te ao Māori and Māori worldviews.
   Word count: Not stated.

Best of luck with your manuscript submissions! If you want to ensure your manuscript is in the best position to be accepted, check out my developmental editing services, pre-querying package or my free writing advice.