As the days grow longer and warmer, it’s time to mark your calendars and start planning your Summer of Pride! Aotearoa’s major cities are gearing up for a vibrant season of takatāpui celebration, community connection, and unapologetic joy — and 2026 promises to be bigger than ever.
Here are the key dates you need to lock in now:
🌈 Auckland Rainbow Parade: Saturday 21 February 2026
The highlight of the festival returns to Ponsonby Road, with the Auckland Rainbow Parade lighting up the streets in a dazzling display of colour, culture, and community. It’s a true celebration of whanaungatanga and pride — don’t miss it.
🏳️🌈 Auckland Pride Festival: 1–28 February 2026
Auckland kicks off the summer season with its iconic Pride Festival throughout the month of Huitanguru (February). Expect a diverse programme filled with art, performance, kōrero, and kaupapa-led events that reflect the mana of Tāmaki Makaurau’s rainbow communities.
🌈 Wellington Pride Festival: 6–22 March 2026
Pōneke steps up next with its own unique flair, running from 6 to 22 March. Known for its welcoming vibes and grassroots spirit, Wellington Pride brings together communities from across the motu in a celebration of identity, diversity, and inclusion.
🌈 Christchurch Pride Festival: 1–31 March 2026
Ōtautahi rounds out the season, with its festival running throughout all of March. With a full month of events, workshops, and parades, Christchurch Pride offers plenty of ways to connect, celebrate, and stand proud.
Getting involved?
It’s also a great time to get involved. Many festivals are calling for volunteers, performers, stallholders, and sponsors — a perfect opportunity to tautoko the kaupapa and help make Pride 2026 the most inclusive and empowering yet.
