2007 has begun on a successful note for Whakatane writer Nicola Kimpton. As the recipient of the inaugural Kingi McKinnon Scholarship for Emerging Writers, she says she is "delighted". In fact, she is "absolutely delighted".2007 has begun on a successful note for Whakatane writer Nicola Kimpton. As the recipient of the inaugural Kingi McKinnon Scholarship for Emerging Writers, she says she is "delighted". In fact, she is "absolutely delighted".With an article placed in the Bay Weekend and two published poems she has already taken her first steps as a writer, but on receiving the scholarship had this to say:

"I am keen to develop a career as a writer and value the opportunities and benefits this course will provide. I feel privileged to receive this award and look forward to commencing the course."

The Kingi McKinnon Scholarship for Emerging Writers was established in honour of Kingi McKinnon, a widely respected author and tutor on the Waiariki Creative Writing programme, who passed away suddenly in September 2006.

Applications for the Scholarship were received New Zealand wide - from the Far North to the Deep South, from young and old, from poets, non-fiction writers, and those who wanted to write for children.

The selection panel at the Waiariki Institute were impressed with the standard of writing presented for their consideration and recognised talent, of one degree or another, in all the applications.

This didn't make their decision an easy one, but they felt Nicola's application showed a "natural talent with words, enthusiasm, and determination".

Sue Emms, lead tutor of the writing programme, says: "While we all miss Kingi deeply as a colleague and fellow writer, we know that he would be chuffed at this opportunity being offered in his name, and be the first to congratulate Nicola."

Image: Kingi McKinnon, a widely respected author and tutor who passed away in 2006.