Rotorua's McLeods Booksellers inviting customers to hunt for books

McLeods Booksellers manager Jemma Pirrie in-store. Photo / File

A Rotorua bookshop is encouraging the community to get beady-eyed for a treasure hunt celebrating New Zealand Bookshop Day.

McLeods Booksellers manager Jemma Pirrie says the store is holding a few events to celebrate NZ Bookshop Day.

Todayat 11.30am there is an under-5s dress up competition, where any child 5 years old or under can go dressed up as their favourite book character, and be in to win prizes from both McLeods Booksellers and the Arts Village Cafe.

Then tomorow, she says, is McLeods' annual treasure hunt, which was started a few years ago as a way to celebrate and give something back to customers.

"We wrap free books in brown paper and hide them in their respective sections (for all ages) and it's basically first in first served, as there are only so many books to go around."

There is a limit of one book per person.

"We encourage people to come along and enjoy their local bookshop by participating in this fun event, and hope to raise awareness around New Zealand bookshops and the benefits of buying locally, as well as instilling and nurturing a passion for literature in our community.

"We are so glad that Booksellers NZ has gotten behind NZ Bookshop Day to spread a passion for books and bookshops in New Zealand."

Jemma says independent bookshops each have a unique flavour and cater to the tastes of their specific communities.

She says they are proud to stock a large range of Māori and New Zealand books, as well as a renowned children's book section and a vast array of other titles.

"We turn 75 years old next year, and love that a bookshop is more than just a retailer - it's a cultural hub in the community too and we are passionate about books and getting people into reading."

As well as events, bookshops are championing the Top 20 NZ Bestsellers – Booksellers choice.

People can vote for their Bookseller of the Decade online at www.booksellers.co.nz/votebestsellers or in-store to be in to win $500 Book Tokens.