Labour List MP Glen Bennett describes his love of living in provincial New Zealand, despite the additional challenges it can create for rainbow Kiwis.
Living in Taranaki, I get to experience the beauty and simplicity of provincial life every day. There’s something special about being surrounded by nature, with big open skies and the brightest stars you’ll ever see. The colours of our rainbow feel even more vivid out here.
But being rainbow in the provinces can sometimes feel tough. It might seem like there are fewer of us, or that we need to keep a lower profile. The stigma and prejudice still exist and many of our rainbow youth look to the big cities for acceptance and community.
That’s changing though, and the shift is exciting. Here in Taranaki, our LGBTIQ+ community is coming together like never before – organising, supporting one another, and celebrating who we are. Pride Taranaki has become a beacon, with events that bring us together, make us visible and let us celebrate together. I’m also seeing this happen in Whanganui, Wairau, Nelson, Tauranga Moana and beyond. Our pride is spreading across the provinces
When Labour was in Government, we made sure the voices of our regional rainbow whānau were heard. We backed initiatives that improved life for LGBTIQ+ people in the provinces, ensuring organisations like RainbowYOUTH and InsideOUT had resources to create safe, supportive spaces. We also invested in mental health and wellbeing, focusing on those in the provinces who might feel more isolated.
We want rainbow communities to thrive in every village, town, and city, giving everyone the opportunity to belong. Our Labour Rainbow members and MPs are spread across the motu – out, proud and dedicated to building safer, more inclusive communities. Whether you’re in the cities, provinces, or somewhere remote, our rainbow whānau is stronger, more connected, and more visible than ever.
There’s still so much work to do, so let’s be bold, proud, and support our community wherever we live.
Glen Bennett – Labour List MP
Authorised by Glen Bennett MP, Parliament Buildings, Wellington, Funded by Parliamentary Services.
