Rainbow Games 2026 will return to Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, from 29 October to 1 November, marking the next stage in the evolution of New Zealand’s largest community-led multi-sport event for rainbow communities and allies.
The announcement coincides with registrations opening on 15 February 2026, alongside confirmation of an expanded programme delivered through a new partnership-led model.
Building on 2024 Momentum
David Huxford, General Manager of Basketball New Zealand, said the 2024 event laid strong foundations for the future.
“Rainbow Games 2024 marked the beginning of something truly special for our sporting community. It showed what’s possible when people are welcomed exactly as they are, and it set the tone for a future where every athlete feels they belong. Rainbow Games 2026 will build on that momentum, and Basketball New Zealand is proud to stand alongside an event that celebrates identity, connection, and participation. Diversity and inclusion aren’t add-ons for us; they are core to who we are as a sport. We actively encourage participation from all communities and are committed to ensuring basketball remains a place where everyone can thrive.”
15 Ways to Take Part
Rainbow Games 2026 will offer 15 ways to participate, including 14 competitive sports and a brand-new Get Active programme focused on inclusive movement and wellbeing.
The programme features:
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12 returning sports
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Two new competitive codes: Kickball and Functional Fitness
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Get Active sessions including Yoga, Q Zumba and Q Box
The Get Active programme broadens participation beyond traditional competitive sport, providing accessible opportunities centred on connection, movement and wellbeing.
A Partnership-Led Model
The 2026 event will be delivered across multiple venues through strategic partnerships with National and Regional Sporting Organisations, embedding the Games more deeply into New Zealand’s wider sporting system.
Teresa Platt, Programme Director of the Pacific Rainbow Games Trust, said:
“Partnering with established sporting bodies such as Swimming Auckland, Auckland Marathon, Basketball New Zealand, and Bowls New Zealand provides proven infrastructure and expertise, supporting the continued growth of New Zealand’s only multi-sport event for rainbow communities and allies.”
Proven Impact
Independent post-event evaluation from the 2024 Rainbow Games demonstrated the event’s powerful impact:
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More than two-thirds of participants said it was their first time competing in a fully accepting sporting environment
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96% reported feeling accepted and that they belonged
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80% felt more empowered to be active
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68% felt more confident staying involved in sport beyond the event
With registrations opening 15 February 2026 — including a limited-time Early Bird discount — organisers expect strong demand.
