Inside winter with singer‑songwriter Hanne Jøstensen
Wednesday, 6 May 2026
The Post - Cosy Arts Club - Hanne Jøstensen
Welcome to the first instalment of The Post’s Cosy Arts Club, an occasional series where we ask artists what winter looks like to them — the rituals, comforts and small joys that shape their colder months.
Originally from Norway, we begin with Wellington singer‑songwriter Hanne Jøstensen, whose Norwegian winters and love of luminous, low‑angle light echo through her music, including her new EP The Lighthouse. This winter, she’ll be taking her songs around the motu, connecting with people over live music in a series of solo shows and maybe even visiting a lighthouse or two.
What’s your go-to winter ritual — the thing that gets you through the cold months?
Stacking the log burner at night. It’s a New Zealand-made machine that goes all night and you can cook soup on it.
Is there a book you always return to in winter, or one you’d recommend for a cosy night in?
I bought a beautiful book called Winter by Karl Ove Knausgaard at the Martinborough Bookstore. It has illustrations by my favourite watercolour artist, Lars Lerin. I stumbled upon an exhibition of his once, he was co-exhibiting with Queen Sonja of Norway who is also an artist. I couldn’t believe my luck.
What’s your favourite winter activity when you’re not working — indoors or outdoors?
Ice skating. I’m considering taking up rollerblading as a substitute, but I’m a bit concerned I’ll break my arms.
Where in your home (or city) do you retreat to when you need warmth or inspiration?
I love the winter light, so for inspiration I go for walks along the south coast of Wellington. Unless it’s a southerly and I get sandblasted. For inspiration and warmth, it’s hard to beat a coffee at a cafe with my notebook.
Does winter change your creative process — for better or worse?
For the better, for sure. Logistically, it’s easier to find time to just sit behind the piano and play. And it brings a melancholy, I think, that sometimes makes its way into my lyrics.
What’s one small winter joy you look forward to every year?
Persimmons.
Do you have a soundtrack that feels right when the temperature drops?
One of my main lyrical inspirations, the late songwriter and rock artist Anne Grete Preus says (translated from Norwegian): “It’s snowing. Heavenly liquid paper over misspelt summer.” Beautiful. I also love NZ artist AUNCE’s gorgeous atmospheric song Walking Through Walls. It brings a sense of calm and possibility in the dark.
What’s your ultimate winter comfort food or drink?
For this one I’d say cinnamon buns fresh out of the oven. I can live off those.
Do you have a winter survival tip you swear by?
Warm water with manuka honey for my voice. And always wear a woollen layer under jeans!