Beat the heat with a great read: Puke Ariki’s most-borrowed books of 2025

As summer beckons and the beach calls, NPDC’s Puke Ariki is encouraging Taranaki readers to borrow one of 2025’s most-borrowed titles from its catalogue for their holiday reading – all free with your library card.

This year’s borrowing trends reveal what’s been captivating readers of all ages this year with 667,277 books checked out from Puke Ariki and community libraries.

On the teen shelves, Suzanne Collins dominated the list with three Hunger Games titles making the top 10, including prequel The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (issued 33 times) and brand-new release Sunrise on the Reaping (50). Holly Jackson’s A Good Girl’s Guide… series (133) and Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson Adventures (82) also proved addictive for young adult readers.

For adult fiction lovers, Kristin Hannah’s historical novel The Women, set in the Vietnam War topped the list again with 159 issues, as well as her novel The Four Winds (112). Lee Child’s In Too Deep came in second with 140 issues. Thriller fans couldn’t get enough of Lee Child and Freida McFadden, with multiple titles by both authors featuring in the list.

The non-fiction list reflects reader’s appetite for inspiration and self-improvement. Former Aotearoa Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s memoir A Different Kind of Power was the most-borrowed non-fiction title with 95 issues, followed by Mel Robbins’ The Let Them Theory (94). Memoirs from Ruth Shaw, Jenny-May Clarkson, and Alison Mau resonated strongly with readers seeking authentic Aotearoa stories.

In Puke Ariki’s Discover It! children’s section, younger readers had an unwavering devotion for graphic novel adaptations of The Baby-Sitters Club (726) and Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man series (470)– proving that engaging stories and vibrant illustrations remain timeless.

“This year’s borrowing stats continue to reflect the interests of our community. Whether you’re after a gripping thriller for the beach or a cookbook to try out a new recipe, or a memoir to inspire you in 2026, our friendly team can help you find your next read,” says Angela Jowitt, Tumuaki Whare Pukapuka – Manager, Puke Ariki Libraries.

Beyond books, Puke Ariki offers free wifi, research support, free events, and digital resources like film streaming and eBooks accessible 24/7 – all at no cost with your library card. Joining is easy and free and doesn’t expire.

Leap into your new favourite book this summer at Puke Ariki or any of our community libraries.

At a glance

• Puke Ariki libraries service the region’s readers from the central Puke Ariki location, community libraries in Bell Block, Inglewood, Ōākura, Waitara, Urenui; and the Mobile Library Te Waka Pukapuka.
• Opened in 2003, Puke Ariki is the world’s first purpose-built, fully integrated museum, library and visitor information centre.
• Te Pua Wānanga O Taranaki/Taranaki Research Centre is also housed at the site.
• Visit pukeariki.com to browse the catalogue, reserve titles online, or find opening hours.