Peter Wells, writer and filmmaker who gave literary voice to gay and lesbian New Zealanders, dies aged 69

February 19, 2019

Wells wrote New Zealand’s first gay-themed work Dangerous Desires, in 1991.

Celebrated New Zealand novelist, filmmaker and playwright, Peter Wells, has died aged 69.

Wells was known for writing New Zealand's first gay-themed work, Dangerous Desires, in 1991 - giving a literary voice to gay and lesbian New Zealanders.

The award winning writer also co-founded New Zealand's most successful book festival - The Auckland Writers Festival.

In 2006, he was made a Member of the Order of New Zealand.

In a Facebook post, the Auckland Writers Festival said, "We are so sad to lose Peter Wells, co-founder of the Auckland Writers Festival, long-time trustee and writing luminary.

"Our thoughts go out to Peter's husband Douglas Lloyd Jenkins and his family. Go well dear friend, we will miss you," the post says.

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