Will you show up on Friday 6 February 2026 and represent the inclusive kaupapa of the bear community? Go on then – enter here!
Every year, Bear New Zealand Week brings together one of Aotearoa’s warmest, furriest, most proudly eclectic corners of our rainbow community. And right at the heart of it sits one of the week’s biggest highlights: the search for Mr Bear New Zealand 2026.
On Friday 6 February at 9pm, Phoenix Cabaret on Auckland’s Karangahape Road will once again host a packed room of bears, cubs, otters, wolves, admirers and allies, all ready to cheer on the next person to take home the sash. Entry is free, the vibe is electric, and the night is always unforgettable. But this year, the spotlight might just be calling you.
So… what exactly is Mr Bear NZ?
According to long-time organiser Paul Heard, it’s simple:
“It’s about finding someone who represents the kaupapa of the bear community — friendly, caring, inclusive, and proud. Someone who gets what our community is about and wants to lift us all up.”
And despite myths that persist, being a “bear” has nothing to do with meeting a specific body type. “Anyone can be part of the bear community,” Paul says. “We’ve had big hairy bears, pocket bears, skinny otters, Asian pandas, trans guys, older guys, younger guys — contestants with no body hair at all. If you identify with the community, you belong.”
Why enter?
Many contestants describe it as one of the best nights of their lives. They walk away with new friends, new confidence, and — for the winner — a year of opportunities.
The Mr Bear NZ winner becomes a community ambassador, encouraged to:
- represent Aotearoa at Mr Australasia Bear in Melbourne (with financial support)
- support local events and charities
- show up for bears, trans whānau, queer youth and the broader LGBTQIA+ community
- help champion inclusion within and beyond the bear scene
As Paul puts it: “It can genuinely take you places. And contestants who don’t win often go on to do incredible things too.”
What to expect on the night
You don’t need to be a seasoned performer. You just need enthusiasm, a willingness to give it a go, and a sense of fun. The competition has three rounds:
1) Bear Casual Wear
Your introduction on stage. Everyday clothes. A couple of questions from the hosts. A chance to show who you are.
2) Bear Fantasy
Your creative moment. Leather, sports gear, jocks, a character, a reveal, a talent — whatever expresses you. You’ll be asked a few more questions, including about how you embody community, kindness and social good.
(Judges will be scoring communication, confidence, attitude, appearance, your interpretation of “bear”, and your commitment to helping others.)
3) Raffle Round — among the crowd
You’ll head into the audience to raise money for a charity of your choice. This counts toward your final score, and it’s pure fun. Flirt, charm, banter — it’s the ultimate bear icebreaker.
A mystery judge will also be in the crowd watching how you connect with people.
What you’ll need to prepare
- Two outfits (Casual Wear + Fantasy)
- A charity you care about
- A short intro song (10–20 seconds)
- A performance track (optional)
- The ability to be at Phoenix Cabaret by 8:30pm on Friday 6 February
After registering, you’ll be sent all guidelines, including how to submit music to Everett, the show’s audio wizard.
Who can enter?
Anyone over 18 who identifies with the bear community, including trans men and non-binary folk.
Prior contestants are welcome to re-enter.
Previous winners should leave the stage free for the new cubs coming through.
Residency is flexible — ideally you’ll be based in Aotearoa for at least the next year so you can represent NZ Bears throughout 2026.
A final word from Paul
“Just be yourself. You don’t have to look a certain way. You don’t have to be a performer. You just have to show up, give it a go, and let people see who you are. You never know what doors it might open.”
✅ Ready?
Think you could be the next Mr Bear New Zealand?
Your community wants to meet you.
Apply below.
