On July 10 2025, Erik launched his new collection of poetry Sick Power Trip at Scorpio Books in Ōtautahi.

It was so great to speak with Erik Kennedy to celebrate the launch of his new poetry collection Sick Power Trip (Te Herenga Waka University Press) I really enjoyed speaking with Erik about poetry in general and his work in particular. I love Erik's work so much and this new collection is incredible. Can not recommend it enough.

Action: Climate Liberation Aotearoa

I asked Erik who he'd like to highlight in this section and he suggested Climate Liberation Aotearoa

Climate Liberation Aotearoa write:

Our plan is to transform society by building people power. To do this, we demonstrate the effectiveness of working alongside each other in a systematic, well organised way that achieves results. It’s up to every one of us to decide. We can liberate ourselves and each other. Or we can live in distraction and powerlessness.

This year Climate Liberation Aotearoa are focusing on transport emissions and pollution. About this they say:

Our first win will be to move the dial on cruise ships – a type of luxury emission worse than flying which we can all do without. Join us to find out more about how we plan to win. In action there is friendship, hope, and love. The first step is to show up.

Action Extra: Fundraising for Queer and trans art classes

The amazing Sian Quennell Torrington runs a beautiful group of projects to build art communities.

Sian says:

I am fundraising for Queer and trans art class, and club, and to be able to keep doing these projects…. funding has gotten real hard, so I've set up a Patreon where people can support from $5 a month. I always have free places, and I see how these spaces help our LGBTTQI+ communities so much. All ages, all together, all making things feel a bit easier through creative community.

You can support this work at the Queer and Trans art projects Patreon

You can support Better off Read financially at Buy Better off Read a Coffee

Music in Better off Read was made by Brent McIntyre.