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Become a Member

Be part of the making

Doc Edge Guardians / Kaitiaki are passionate patrons of New Zealand’s premier documentary festival, Doc Edge. As part of this philanthropic programme, Guardians / Kaitiaki help sustain and grow the festival, allowing it to bring world-class documentaries, year-round screenings, and educational events to Kiwi audiences.  

Through their contributions, Guardians / Kaitiaki enable Doc Edge to celebrate diverse voices, support filmmakers, and foster a thriving documentary culture, all while enjoying exclusive benefits, recognition, and behind-the-scenes access. 

Join the Doc Edge Guardians / Kaitiaki Programme and support New Zealand’s premier documentary festival as it celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025 and builds a sustainable future for documentary storytelling. Becoming a Guardian / Kaitiaki means standing behind a vital cultural movement, supporting year-round programming, education, and the visionary voices of documentary filmmakers. 

Why Become a Doc Edge Guardian / Kaitiaki? 

As a Guardian / Kaitiaki, you’ll play a vital role in helping Doc Edge to: 

  • Bring groundbreaking documentaries from around the world to New Zealand audiences and provide a platform for underrepresented voices. 
  • Create unique experiences that celebrate local and international filmmakers. 
  • Sustain year-round access to curated films through Doc Edge Virtual Cinema and our Film of the Month offerings. 
  • Support exclusive industry events, filmmaker Q&As, and educational programmes that inspire the next generation of storytellers. 
  • Keep our mission alive for future audiences and create a legacy for documentary in New Zealand. 

The Doc Edge Guardians / Kaitiaki Programme is open to individuals, families, and businesses, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to an inspiring legacy. 

Guardian / Kaitiaki Levels & Benefits  

To suit varying levels of commitment, we offer three core tiers, each designed to elevate your Doc Edge experience and foster a meaningful connection to the documentary community:  

  1. Supporter – $2,500+

As a Supporter, you provide essential backing for Doc Edge’s core programming and outreach. Benefits include: 

  • Recognition as a Doc Edge Guardian / Kaitiaki in the Festival booklet & website 
  • VIP Access to all screenings for Opening & Closing Nights 
  • Complimentary access to Doc Edge Virtual Cinema during festival season 
  • Monthly access to the Film of the Month, highlighting a top-tier documentary each month 

 

  1. Champion – $5,000+

Champions sustain and expand our programming, enabling broader community impact. Benefits include all Supporter perks, plus: 

  • Invitation to the VIP Awards Night and Guardians / Kaitiaki Appreciation Event 
  • Access to Meet & Greet Sessions with filmmakers and festival guests 
  • Year-round Doc Edge Virtual Cinema Membership 
  • Special acknowledgment as a Guardian / Kaitiaki Champion in Festival materials 

 

  1. Visionary – $10,000+

Visionaries are instrumental Guardians / Kaitiaki, ensuring Doc Edge’s ongoing growth and success. Visionaries enjoy all Champion benefits, plus: 

  • Personalised Festival Pass with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to festival programming 
  • Opportunities to dedicate screenings to honour your family, business, or organisation 
  • Invitations to private preview screenings before public release 
  • A private consultation with Doc Edge programmers for a curated list of recommended films to watch 

 

All Guardian/Kaitiaki levels are eligible for tax deductions in New Zealand. 

 

To learn more about joining, please contact us. Help us make Doc Edge’s 20th anniversary a landmark celebration and secure its mission to champion documentary film for years to come. 

Supporter

Expand programming & outreach
$ 39
99
Monthly
  • Recogntion in Festival programme
  • VIP access
  • Complimentary access to Virtual Cinema
  • Monthly access to Film of the Month

Champion

Enable community impact
$ 39
99
Monthly
  • Invitation to the VIP Awards Night and Guardians / Kaitiaki Appreciation Event
  • Access to Meet & Greet Sessions with filmmakers and festival guests
  • Year-round Doc Edge Virtual Cinema Membership
  • acknowledgment as a Guardian / Kaitiaki Champion in Festival materials

Visionary

Empower growth and success.
$ 39
99
Monthly
  • Personalised Festival Pass with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to festival programming
  • Opportunities to dedicate screenings to honour your family, business, or organisation
  • Invitations to private preview screenings before public release
  • Private consultation with Doc Edge programmers for a curated list of recommended films to watch

Donate to Doc Edge

Love Doc Edge? We would love your support to bring you the best festival every year and every little bit matters. Select a one off or regular donation below. Thanks from the entire Doc Edge team!