Sun blazing. Pride flags flying. Queer joy everywhere. The Big Gay Out returned to Coyle Park on 15 February, once again transforming the Point Chevalier waterfront into a vibrant celebration of colour, connection and community for Auckland’s Pride.
From the moment the gates opened, the atmosphere felt electric. Picnic blankets spread across the grass, chosen families carved out shady spots beneath makeshift umbrellas, and glitter shimmered on cheeks, outfits and in the late-summer air.
More than a festival, The Big Gay Out remains a living snapshot of Tāmaki Makaurau’s diverse rainbow communities.
Dedicated spaces, including Big Trans Out, Big Lesbian Out, Big Non-Binary Out and Big Pansexual Out, created welcoming hubs throughout the park. These pockets of belonging offered moments of visibility and recognition amid the joyful buzz of the wider crowd.
Takatāpui, MVPFAFF+ communities, allies and whānau gathered not as separate silos, but as part of one expansive, interconnected rainbow.
On stage, performers kept the energy soaring throughout the afternoon, their music drifting across the harbour as crowds danced and sang along. Community stalls buzzed with advocacy, education and connection, reinforcing that Pride is as much about care and solidarity as it is about celebration – and a little protest too.
Check out some of our favourite moments from a day that captured the very best of summer Pride in Tāmaki Makaurau. GET YOUR PICS HERE!
