NZ bookstores embracing digital revolution

Bookshops throughout New Zealand now selling e-books and e-readers

An increasing number of independent bookstores in New Zealand have begun selling Kobo e-books and e-readers. This follows a recent agreement between Booksellers NZ on behalf of its independent members and Kobo Inc. of Canada.

From Whangarei to Dunedin, New Plymouth to Gisborne, Nelson and Blenheim to Christchurch, Masterton, Caterton and Wellington - bookshops are now selling e-books only through their website or selling Kobo Glo devices in-store along with e-books online.

“It’s only in the last few days that we've seen this activity pick up, but indie bookshops throughout the country are now servicing their customers with the e-format,” said Lincoln Gould, CEO of Booksellers NZ.

The Women’s Bookshop in Auckland was quick off the mark with strong promotion, surprising themselves by selling out of their first batch of Kobo Glo devices within a few days.

Owner Carole Beau advised Booksellers NZ, “We had our Customer Christmas Night last night and SOLD OUT of Kobo e-readers. YAY."

New stock is arriving at her store next week.

Kobo e-books and e-readers have been in Whitcoulls stores for some time and are also available through Paper Plus stores as well as independent bookshops.

“New Zealanders now have access to three million e-books and well-priced quality e-readers through their favourite local bookshop and no longer need to rely on buying from overseas online retailers,” said Gould.

The wider availability of e-books through New Zealand bookstores has been welcomed by the Publishers Association of New Zealand.

PANZ President, Kevin Chapman said, “The investment that has been made in e-publishing by New Zealand publishers has been considerable and it is wonderful that Kiwis now have an ever increasing ability to access international and New Zealand authors through the e-format from local bookstores.”