Sprechen Sie Deutsches? Creative New Zealand is calling for applications for the 2005 Berlin Writers' Residency. One lucky writer will get the chance to live in Berlin for up to a year rent free, plus a stipend of NZ$3000 a month, and paid airfares.

According to past winner Philip Temple, 'Berlin is a terrific base. It's central for travelling in Europe, and the cost of living and transport is very reasonable. As well, you're exposed to a huge variety of cultural activity.'

Having spent an all-too-short 72 hours in the city a few years ago, I can second that.

The selected writer will work on an approved project and must be able to undertake the residency for a negotiable period between August 2005 and July 2006.

Applications close at 5pm on Friday 11 February 2005. You can check the Residency guidelines by downloading them from the resources section of Creative New Zealand's website (www.creativenz.govt.nz), or by contacting Rosemary Wildblood (Tel: 04-498 0741 Email: rosemaryw@creativenz.govt.nz) or Danielle Tolson (Tel: 04-473 0184 Email: daniellet@creativenz.govt.nz).

Viel Glueck!