[4] At the Manukau Institute of Technology, Sullivan led the creative writing programme[5] and served as Deputy Chief Executive (Māori).

Maui: Legends of the Outcast (1997), illustrated by Chris Slane and "one of New Zealand's first graphic novels",[9] was shortlisted for the LIANZA Russell Clark Medal.

[10] His book-length poem Captain Cook in the Underworld was long-listed for the Montana New Zealand Book Awards in the Poetry Category.

[1][13] His wide-ranging work explores dimensions of Māori tradition as well as "contemporary urban experiences, including local racial and social concerns.

"[14] His writing has a post modern feel and shows acute awareness of important Aotearoa/New Zealand issues while linking them in a complex way back to the cultural past.