Everyone's favourite red-nosed reindeer will be the inspiration for New Zealand children to write Christmas stories endorsing acceptance and diversity.
Central Otago-based anti-bullying group Sticks ’n Stones has put the call out to the country's youth to write festive stories in its Rudolph Needs a Rewrite competition.
Entries will be judged by a panel of New Zealand authors and illustrators consisting of Central Otago's Kyle Mewburn and Bruce Potter, and Auckland-based Ross Kinnaird and Louise Dempsey.
Sticks ’n Stones national manager Karla Sanders said the competition was a way of empowering young people to write about acceptance and diversity.
''We wanted to tap into the huge talent we have nationally.''
The contexts of traditional Christmas tales were often not relatable to people today, she said.
''We want to create modern Kiwi Christmas stories that people can share at school or at home.''
They did not necessarily need to be about reindeer, she said.
''Writers can explore the messages in creative and unexpected ways. The perfect chance for anyone to share some Christmas magic.''
The winning entry was likely to be published in print with professional illustrations, she said.
It would also be included in a compilation of short-listed entries to be released as an e-book.
Mr Mewburn said the competition allowed a creative opportunity for children to have their diverse voices heard.
''With the voices of prejudice and discrimination becoming louder every day, it is vital for kids to hear balancing voices celebrating diversity.
“It is especially important for kids who don't fit squarely within the societal norms to know they are not alone.''
The competition has five categories from age five upwards, including an open category which adults can enter.
Stories must be less than 800 words and submitted by Wednesday, December 14.
