Auckland’s Rainbow Games have been dealt a major blow, with the New Zealand Government pulling its funding for the 2026 and 2028 events, leaving organisers scrambling to secure alternate sources to keep the inclusive multi-sport festival alive.
The Rainbow Games, launched in 2023 to champion inclusion, community, and participation in sport among LGBTQIA+ communities, had received around $800,000 from the government for the inaugural event. Under the original agreement, a total of $2.25 million was pledged for three events across 2024, 2026, and 2028. However, organisers have now confirmed that roughly $1.4 million in promised funding for the 2026 and 2028 games has been withdrawn.
If you wish to support the Rainbow Games, you can donate here.
Brad Christensen, one of the event’s co-chairs, said the funding decision was linked to a wider government shift in strategy for major events. “Governments have to make hard decisions, and we understand that,” he said. “We’re not the only event that’s been affected, the America’s Cup have also lost support.”
The impact, however, is significant. The expected $700,000 per remaining event now needs to be sourced through new channels. “It’s not just about the money. This is about building resilient communities, promoting participation, and amplifying rainbow and trans voices,” said Christensen.
Co-chair Tux Hika added that despite the loss, the Pacific Rainbow Games Trust remains committed to delivering the next games in 2026. “Our board has had to pivot rapidly. We’re now focusing on commercial sponsorships, philanthropic support, and rallying behind the many community sport teams who formed as a result of Rainbow Games 2024.”
The government’s decision does not appear to be linked to anti-trans sentiments voiced by members of the coalition government or the Rainbow Games’ inclusive stance on trans participation.
If you wish to support the Rainbow Games, you can donate here.
The Rainbow Games had been seen as a platform to demonstrate Auckland’s readiness to host a future Gay Games. However, with Auckland pulling its Gay Games 2030 bid earlier this month, many feared a domino effect. Christensen clarified that the decisions were unrelated and that the Auckland Council organisation Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (Tātaki) continues to support the Rainbow Games.
Beyond funding challenges, organisers remain hopeful. “We’ve built an inclusive, community-led event,” Hika said. “If we can tap into local sports clubs, community fundraising, and corporate partnerships, we believe the Rainbow Games can not only survive, but thrive.”
Organisers have also emphasised the social benefits of the Games. The 2024 event saw 1,700 participants and support personnel, and delivered outreach programmes including support for Pacific Island athletes. “This isn’t a ‘nice-to-have’. This is essential,” said Hika. “It’s about showing underserved communities that sport is a space for them too.”
With planning underway and optimism unshaken, the Pacific Rainbow Games Trust is urging the public and businesses to help secure a legacy of inclusion, equity, and community in Aotearoa’s sporting landscape.
If you wish to support the Rainbow Games, you can donate here.
