Friends of the Festival is KUPU’s patron programme, created for those who believe in the power of Māori storytelling. By joining, you help sustain the festival, nurture emerging writers, and ensure our kupu — our words — continue to thrive for generations. Your support goes beyond funding; it builds a movement that places Māori literature at the heart of Aotearoa’s cultural landscape. Each tier offers exclusive benefits, meaningful engagement, and a direct role in shaping the future of our stories. TIER A: A welcoming step into the KUPU whānau. Perfect for those who want to show their support and enjoy the festival experience while staying connected to the kaupapa. Benefits: 1 × Day Pass (Main Festival) Festival e-newsletter and updates Early access to ticket sales & merchandise Acknowledgement on website and printed programme. TIER B: For those who wish to walk a little closer and connect with organisers and other supporters of Māori storytelling. Benefits: 1 × Festival Pass, Reserved seating and RSVP area for main sessions, Invitation to pre-festival patrons’ gathering, Festival e-newsletter and updates, Early access to ticket sales & merchandise, Acknowledgement on website and printed programme. TIER C: Partners help shape the festival’s journey and enjoy premium access and recognition. Benefits: 2 × Festival Passes, 1 Gala Dinner invitation, Limited-edition KUPU taonga or enamel pin, Direct access to organisers (Patron Channel), Reserved seating and RSVP area for main sessions, Invitation to pre-festival patrons’ gathering, Festival e-newsletter and updates, Early access to ticket sales & merchandise, Acknowledgement on website and printed programme. TIER D: Champions stand at the heart of KUPU’s vision, guiding new projects and joining exclusive cultural exchanges. Benefits: 2 × Festival Passes, 2 Gala Dinner invitations, VIP invitations to travelling festival cultural exchanges, Personal acknowledgment from Kaihautū, Limited-edition KUPU taonga or enamel pin, Direct access to organisers (Patron Channel), Reserved seating and RSVP area for main sessions, Invitation to pre-festival patrons’ gathering, Festival e-newsletter and updates, Early access to ticket sales & merchandise, Acknowledgement on website and printed programme Lifetime Patron: For those wishing to make a lasting contribution to the legacy of Māori literature, a one-off gift of $10,000+ secures permanent recognition as a founding patron. Benefits: Permanent acknowledgment in festival materials, Invitations to key gatherings marking KUPU’s evolution, All benefits of Tier D. Gift a Patronage: Support doesn’t have to end with one’s own name. You may gift a Tier A or Tier B patronage to an emerging Māori author, allowing them to attend, connect, and participate in the festival.Benefits: Enables an emerging writer to access festival experiences and networking opportunities, Recognition for your generosity