Reel Earth – Past, Present, Future
Kia Ora. Welcome to Reel Earth, the leading film festival in the Southern Hemisphere with a focus on nature and the environment. Hosted in New Zealand’s magnificent Manawatu region, a thriving riverside community with a rich culture of heartland values, commitment to sustainability, and vibrant science and education realm.
New Zealand is globally renowned for creative expression in film and for her unrivaled and superb natural environment, making it the perfect place to host an international film festival focused on nature and the environment.
Reel Earth sprung from humble origins in 2004, thanks to a small band of friends with a shared passion for film and a sustainable future. Today it has flourished to become recognized by filmmakers and audience alike as a festival that seeks, selects and accolades the best new film from around New Zealand and around the world, in a juried annual competition.
In recognition of the Festival’s impact and excellence, Reel Earth achieved Finalist status in New Zealand’s annual Ministry for the Environment Green Ribbon Awards in 2011.
For filmmakers, Reel Earth offers a magnificent reason to visit one of the world’s amazing natural treasures, one of her most welcoming countries. We offer unparalleled access to an Australasian audience, a professional platform to celebrate nature and sustainability, and the opportunity to test creativity among peers, jurists, and film and environment enthusiasts.
Reel Earth’s Gala Awards night in the Regent Theatre celebrates and honours films in our region’s magnificent original film palace now lovingly restored to her original grandeur.
Reel Earth’s limited Festival Season opens each May. The Festival is owned and operated by an Incorporated Society of recognized Charitable purpose.
Filmmaker, enthusiasts, community, sector leaders in sustainability: we look forward to meeting you in May!
