Biography

Darian Smith is an Auckland-based author, counsellor, and writing educator. A lifelong storyteller with qualifications in Psychology, English, and Counselling, he has spent years helping people understand both themselves and the stories they tell.

His professional background includes private counselling practice, family therapy work, establishing a free community counselling service, and supporting people living with neuromuscular conditions and bleeding disorders. This experience has heavily influenced his approach to fiction, where complex characters and emotional authenticity play a central role.

Darian is the author of multiple fantasy and speculative fiction novels, including the Agents of Kalanon series, the paranormal fantasy novel Currents of Change, and the young adult fantasy adventure The Lost Pendant of Pania. His achievements include a Sir Julius Vogel Award, two Koru Awards, and recognition as a finalist in the international SPFBO fantasy competition.

In addition to his fiction, Darian wrote The Psychology Workbook for Writers, a practical guide that adapts psychological theories into tools for developing believable characters, compelling relationships, and meaningful conflict. The book has become a popular resource among writers seeking to deepen their understanding of character psychology.

Darian can frequently be seen at New Zealand conventions, including Labour Weekend Auckland Armageddon most years.