Membership to the NZ Founders Society is available to anyone who can trace their ancestry back to at least one person who arrived in New Zealand prior to 31 December 1865. The application form provides details of the proof required to be submitted with the application. A certificate is issued to all new members on verification of their application.
Ordinary membership is for years 18 and over. Junior membership is available for under 18 years.
Associate membership is available for those who are not able to prove direct descent but who are related to either an ordinary member or someone who was eligible for membership but who is deceased.
Membership is with a particular branch and your membership application form is submitted through the branch. Fees are shown on each branch page and other categories of membership (such as friends) may be available by contacting the branch directly.
Download the application form here.
Membership application forms should be posted or emailed to the Branch in the first instance, along with the supporting proof required for membership. To make sure that your application is processed promptly please make sure that you attach proof that the ancestor from whom you are descended arrived in NZ prior to 1865, and that your line relationship is direct and not through an uncle or aunt but only through parents.
Do not send your application form to the National Office address as it will delay your membership as it has to be processed by the branch in the first instance. Branch contact details can be found under the Branches tab. Anyone in an area not covered by our branch structure interested in becoming a member or maintaining their existing membership can join the Remote Branch by contacting the National Membership Secretary. Any enquiries for the Remote Branch should be directed to nzfounders@gmail.com