Witi Ihimaera Smiler's return to the world of The Whale Rider
Author Witi Ihimaera has released his latest novel, The Star Path, thirty years after his iconic work The Whale Rider. The book aims to provide a sense of strength and adventure for young readers navigating the challenges of 2026.
Why it matters
Ihimaera is a significant figure in indigenous literature, and his continued output highlights the ongoing relevance of Māori storytelling in global culture.
Thirty years after the publication of his global hit The Whale Rider, Witi Ihimaera Smiler's latest novel The Star Path tells a new epic story.
Nine to Noon 4 October 2026 7 min read Caption: Witi Ihimaera (Te Whānau-a-Kai, Te Aitanga-a-Māhaki, Rongowhakaata, Ngāti Porou, Tūhoe) is best known for his 1987 novel The Whale Rider, which became a worldwide bestseller and was adapted into an acclaimed film. Photo credit: Publishers Association of NZ In his latest novel Witi Ihimaera Smiler wanted to take rangatahi “on a journey to the end of the world and back”, he says.
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