CAMBRIDGE AUTUMN FESTIVAL
2026 SHORT STORY COMPETITION

NOW OPEN!

Sponsored by our amazing sponsor
Maurice Trapp Group

THE THEME:
You might notice we have done something different with the theme…
In fact, there’s no theme! You can write about any topic you wish!
Your story has to be a work of fiction. We know the hard work that goes into each and every story, and we can’t wait to see the entries.

ENTER AS MANY TIMES AS YOU LIKE!
Entries close 2 February 2026 and entrants can submit multiple entries (maximum 4 entries).
There are great prizes to be won…
FIRST PRIZE: $1,000
SECOND PRIZE: $500
THIRD PRIZE: $250
Word limit is 1500 words. It’s open to all ages and is free to enter.
We accept online or printed entries:

If you would like to read the 2025 winning stories head to the bottom of this page.

HERE IS THE TIME LINE FOR THE 2026 COMPETITION:
Entries close 5.00pm Monday 2 February 2026 and then the judging will begin.
Winners will be notified on or before 12 March 2026.
Winners will be awarded in Cambridge Thursday 19 March 2026.
The announcement of winners will be emailed to all entrants shortly after 19 March, and the entrants who were shortlisted will also be advised at that time.

The competition is open to NZ permanent residents (sorry to our overseas friends who want to enter, we love that you want to enter, but this one’s only for NZers).

Happy writing!

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If you would like to read the winning stories from 2025, click on the story links below:

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