From the celebration of Auckland’s parade to Wellington’s community-rooted celebrations, and Christchurch’s evolving grassroots programme, the 2026 Pride season in our major cities promises something for everyone.
Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland (1–28 February)
Auckland celebrates PRIDE throughout February, transforming neighbourhoods, streets, galleries, and public spaces into vibrant expressions of LGBTQ+ culture, artistry, and visibility.
This year’s highlights include:
Inside the Closet
A street-side fashion exhibition curated by the New Zealand Fashion Museum in collaboration with drag pioneer Edward Cowley (aka Buckwheat). Displayed across the Pavilion panels at Britomart, the exhibition features life-size portraits of 13 drag performers, each styled in a colour of the Pride Progress flag. From local legends to TikTok stars, these queens, kings, and non-binary performers showcase the diversity, craftsmanship, and culture of drag in Aotearoa. It’s free, open-air, and running throughout the month.
Bear NZ Week
Celebrating the Bear community and their allies, the week opens on Wednesday, 4, and highlights include a relaxed Meet & Greet at the Abstract Hotel that day at 6 pm. On Thursday 5, the hilarious Funny, Furry, Fierce! comedy show (7 pm) and then the energetic Underbear Party at Phoenix Cabaret (9 pm). Friday 6’s evening double‑header with Haus of Bears (7 pm) and the Mr Bear NZ 2026 competition (9 pm). On Saturday, 7, Bears & Board Games takes over Dice & Fork at midday, and later that night, the huge Tri‑Nations Party runs from 9 pm at Phoenix Cabaret. The week wraps up on Sunday 8 with a cosy Bear Brunch at the Long Room (12 pm), a steamy Wet Fur sauna session at Centurian (2 pm), and finally a Leather & Gear Party at G.A.Y.
Mile High Comedy Club
On Thursday, 12, head to MOTAT’s Aviation Hall for a high-flying night of LGBTQIA+ comedy. Hosted by Hugo Grrrl, the award-winning drag king and House of Drag winner, this event features an exciting line-up including comedian and writer Janaye Henry, up-and-comer Matt Coombe, and the razor-sharp James Mustapic. It’s a cabaret-style night full of camp, comedy, and cocktails — complete with DJ sets and a themed “Aviator” drink for extra flair. DJ THROCAT will be supplying the Pride anthems, and tickets are limited, so get in quick! Buy tickets at motat.nz
Big Gay Out
On Sunday, 15, Coyle Park in Point Chevalier hosts the annual Big Gay Out, a flagship event that brings together tens of thousands for a free day-long celebration of rainbow pride. It’s part music festival, part community fair, with live performances, food trucks, charity stalls, and dancing. This is New Zealand’s largest LGBTQIA+ outdoor festival.
Rainbow Parade
The Auckland Rainbow Parade, set for Saturday, 21, is the month’s highlight for many. With pre-parade festivities from 5 pm and the parade itself stepping off at 7.30 pm, expect floats, dancers, costumes, and flags representing every corner of the rainbow. A celebration of our diverse communities, the parade also pays tribute to the LGBTQIA+ activists and AIDS awareness champions of the 1990s, anchoring celebration in remembrance and advocacy. The parade is free to attend, but you can treat yourself to premium seats in the grandstand area, which gives you exclusive access to the Smirnoff Bar for those seeking a luxe viewing experience. Tickets from rainbowparade.co.nz
Out of the Gutter Street Party
Auckland Pride wraps up with the Out of the Gutter Street Party on Saturday, 28, a free event at Beresford Square. Expect live DJs, drag, and an all-ages crowd dancing in the streets. This year’s headline act is Ramon Te Wake, an acclaimed screenwriter, director, and performer known for championing trans and Māori stories on screen.
Te Whanganui-a-Tara – Wellington Pride Festival (6–22 March)
Dawn Ceremony & Opening Gala
The festival launches on Friday 6 with a dawn ceremony, acknowledging the whenua, the ancestors, and the ongoing journey toward queer liberation. The opening gala that follows later that evening invites everyone to embrace all intersections of identity.
Youth Ball
Returning on Saturday 14 — this is a vibrant, all-ages dance party designed for LGBTQ+ rangatahi. Inclusive and drug/alcohol-free, the event empowers young people to shine.
Out in the City
On Sunday 15, Out in the City takes over Odlins Plaza in downtown Wellington with a family-friendly market and performance day. Dozens of community stalls, stage acts, workshops, food vendors, and entertainers transform public spaces into a buzzing queer hub.
Pride Hīkoi & Pride Picnic
While details are still being finalised, the Pride Hīkoi is set to return around Tuesday 17, honouring Pride’s protest roots through a peaceful walk that underscores the continued fight for equity and representation.
The festival wraps up on Sunday 22 with a Pride Picnic — a chill day for friends, whānau, and community to gather with kai and connection.
Ōtautahi – Christchurch Pride Festival (1–31 March)
Walk for Support & Picnic
The festival opens on Sunday 1 with the Walk for Support through the city, followed by a laid-back community picnic, reflecting Christchurch Pride’s commitment to an accessible, inclusive, and family-friendly Pride — welcoming tamariki, elders, and everyone in between.
Drag Bingo & Boat Party
Due to the overwhelming popularity of last year’s sold-out event, the much-loved Drag Bingo is likely returning for two separate shows in 2026. The organisers are teaming up again with restaurant Muy Muy, and while final dates are pending, it’s bound to be a riot of colour and cheek.
Also locked in is the Boat Party on Saturday, 14 — an unforgettable evening on the water complete with DJs, drinks, and dancing.
Pool Party & Rainbow Ride
On 24 March, the action heads to the Hot Pools for a splashy Pride Pool Party, offering fun and relaxation for rainbow folks and their allies.
Then on Tuesday, 28, pedal into pride with the Rainbow Ride, a community cycle event culminating in the Ōtautahi Pride Market. The day wraps up with a queer rave, spotlighting local DJs and queer artists.
More to Come
Christchurch’s programme continues to grow with events like family picnics, queer film screenings, drag nights, and collaborations with organisations like Five Films for Freedom. The festival also encourages locals to get involved as volunteers or join the organising committee. Follow updates at @chchpride.
