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Two acclaimed Kiwi writers have had their books disqualified from consideration for the country's prestigious literary prize because of the use of AI in designing their book covers.

Disqualification Particulars

Stephanie Johnson's story compilation "Obligate Carnivore" and the writer's short novel set "Angel Train" were entered for the Ockham 2026 book awards and its NZ$65,000 novel award in October, but were ruled out the following thirty days because of new rules concerning artificial intelligence usage.

The publishing house of both titles, Quentin Wilson, stated that the prize organizers updated the criteria in the eighth month, by which point the covers for all entered title would have already been completed.

“It was, therefore, far too late for any publisher to have taken this clause into account in their design briefs,” the publisher noted.

Writers' Reactions

Johnson expressed sympathy for the prize administrators, saying she has deep concerns about AI in artistic industries, but was disappointed by the decision.

“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t sad about it,” she remarked. “This marks my 22nd publication and my fourth short story anthology. These tales … were composed over roughly two decades, making this a particularly significant work for me.”

She added that authors typically have minimal input in book design and was unaware AI had been used for her book cover, which displays a cat with human-like dentition.

“I just thought it was a photograph of a real cat and the teeth had been superimposed, but apparently it wasn’t,” Johnson said, adding that unlike younger age groups, she finds it difficult to recognize computer-created graphics.

The writer feared that readers might assume she used artificial intelligence to compose her book, which she categorically did not do.

“Instead of talking about my book … and what the inspiration was, we are talking about bloody AI, which I hate.”

In a statement, Smither expressed that the designers devoted considerable time creating her book's art, which features a locomotive and an celestial figure partially hidden by smoke, inspired by artist the artist's imagery.

“My primary concern is for the designers: their careful, detailed work … is not being respected,” she remarked.

Prize Committee's Stance

Nicola Legat, head of the award foundation that administers the prizes, said the organization takes a “firm stance on the application of AI in publications.”

“The trust does not take lightly a decision that prevents the latest works of two of New Zealand’s most esteemed writers from being considered for the 2026 award,” she stated.

“Nevertheless, the rules apply equally to every participant, no matter their standing, and must be enforced uniformly.”

The move to amend the artificial intelligence criteria was driven by a desire to protect the artistic and copyright rights of the nation's authors and illustrators, she explained.

“With artificial intelligence advancing, the trust may need to review and refine these criteria in the future.”

Industry Considerations

Wilson pointed out that publishing houses and writers often employ software like Grammarly and Photoshop, which utilize artificial intelligence, and this incident highlighted the urgent need for well-defined policies.

“As an industry, we must work together to ensure that this situation does not happen again.”

Both Elizabeth Smither and Stephanie Johnson have previously served as judges for sections of the prizes, and both stressed that cover designs get minimal consideration during evaluation.

“The contents and the close reading were everything,” the author said.

The use of artificial intelligence in creative sectors has encountered increasing scrutiny as the technology progresses, with some groups developing ways to address its impact.