New Zealand Writers

MARTIN WILSON, Niyaz

Colourful and determined.

• Links

MARTIN (WILSON), Niyaz (birth year withheld)

Niyaz Martin Wilson's work combines autobiography, poetry and recipes.

Martin was born and raised in Turkey. She spent time in England before settling in New Zealand. Here in New Zealand Wilson has worked as a teacher and a lecturer. She has also been the Director of Training of the Rotorua Playcentre and President of the Lynmore Country Women’s Institute.

Martin’s first book Season of Figs: Memories of a Turkish Childhood (1999) begins with the story of Martin’s grandmother, and has been described as "more than an autobiography, it also has 20 recipes and a selection of Mrs. Wilson’s poetry."

Martin’s second book Circassian Granddaughter: Memories of a Turkish New Zealander (2000) picks up with her teenage years and her migration to New Zealand. This book is described as having a "colourful style. It’s like reading a letter from a friend."

In addition to her writing and teaching Martin is the President of the Friends of the Auckland Art Gallery and is an avid collector of New Zealand Art.

Niyaz Martin Wilson is available for visits to Book Groups. She lives in Auckland.

(LK)