About

For the first thirty years of my professional life I identified as a jeweller. Now, in my eighties, I call myself an author. Alongside both those careers (and alongside my husband Laughton, a musician) I have written lyrics and book for songs and musicals for children which have been performed widely throughout New Zealand.

My jewellery is held in private collections and at the Museum of New Zealand, Te Papa Tongarewa. I was inaugural member and President of the Crafts Council of New Zealand, and designed and taught the original craft design (jewellery) course at Whitirea Polytechnic.  My work was included in international touring exhibitions Kahurangi and Bone Stone Shell

My first novel, The Denniston Rose, was published in 2002. It, and the nine others that followed have all been best sellers. Most explore areas of Aotearoa’s history. The wonderful Katherine Mansfield Menton Fellowship was awarded to me in 2009.

Other interests have been in Arts Governance, notably chairing the boards of QEII Arts Council and Toi Whakaari New Zealand Drama School; also house renovation, tramping, travel and enjoying the company of friends and family. In 1990 I was award an OBE for services to the arts.

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Jenny does not spend much time on social media but you can email her.