Dunedin Writers' Walk plaque unveiling for OE Middleton and Peter Olds

An unveiling ceremony was held at Dunedin City Library to celebrate the inclusion of two writers of enormous significance to Ōtepoti, the late O.E. (Ted) Middleton and Peter Olds.

The occasion was proudly hosted by Dunedin UNESCO City of Literature, and guests were welcomed by Mayor of Dunedin Aaron Hawkins, who reminded the crowd that the Writers’ Walk in the Octagon is an ever-present reminder of why the city had been designated a UNESCO City of Literature.

Both Ted Middleton and Peter Olds were University of Otago Robert Burns Fellows and a part of the cultural fabric of the city, Mr Hawkins said.

Suzanne Middleton (Ted Middleton’s daughter) spoke of the importance of the Burns Fellowship and how the opportunity this offers recipients was visionary. Dunedin is fortunate to have had benefactors who helped ensure that creativity in the city flourished to this day. Peter Olds’ Publisher and friend, Roger Hickin, described Peter’s life and work and his ongoing commitment to documenting the city.

Guests were treated to some well-chosen readings and insights into the lives of both writers by Ted Middleton’s partner Cynthia Greensill, and Jenny Powell and John Gibb, long-term friends of Peter Olds. Nicky Page, Director City of Literature called the gathering of family and friends ‘‘heartwarming, heartfelt, and actually very moving’’.