Calling all fabulous fur babies and their humans! 🐾🏳️🌈 Burnett Foundation Aotearoa is bringing Pride Unleashed back this November, inviting Kiwis to get moving, have fun and raise $150,000 for vital rainbow community support services.
It’s time to dust off those walking shoes, grab the lead and get ready to strut your stuff for a fabulous cause!
Pride Unleashed returns from 1–30 November 2026, bringing together animal lovers, LGBTQ+ communities, allies and their four-legged companions for a month-long fundraising challenge.
Organised by Burnett Foundation Aotearoa, the initiative encourages people across the motu to walk, wheel, ride or scooter their way through November while raising funds to support rainbow communities.
Whether you’re strolling around the neighbourhood with your pooch or aiming to clock up an impressive 100 kilometres, there’s a way for everyone to get involved.
And yes, your cat is welcome too — provided they’re feeling cooperative!
Every Step Makes A Difference
Participants can set their own distance goals, with the campaign promoting challenges of 10km, 25km or 100km throughout November.
Along the way, they’re encouraged to seek sponsorship from friends, whānau and colleagues, helping Burnett Foundation Aotearoa reach its ambitious $150,000 fundraising target.
Jennifer Swain, Fundraising Manager at Burnett Foundation Aotearoa, says the challenge is about connecting people while supporting a cause that matters.
“Pride Unleashed is such a wonderful way for people to get involved, have some fun and support our Rainbow communities,” Swain says.
“Whether you’re walking around the block with your dog (or cat), or taking on 100 kilometres throughout November, every step counts, and every dollar raised makes a difference.”
And there’s something in it for your furry bestie, too!
Participants can earn rewards for their four-legged companions as they reach fundraising milestones.
Supporting Rainbow Wellbeing Across Aotearoa
While Pride Unleashed promises plenty of adorable pets and outdoor adventures, there’s an important purpose behind the fun.
Rainbow communities in Aotearoa continue to experience higher rates of mental health challenges, alongside discrimination, stigma and barriers to accessing appropriate services.
Research published by New Zealand’s Health Promotion Agency found that 56% of rainbow survey participants reported experiencing mental illness at some point in their lives, compared with 30% of other participants.
The figures come from surveys conducted between 2015 and 2018 and highlight the longstanding need for accessible, affirming support.
Swain says Pride Unleashed provides an opportunity for people to show their support in a positive, practical way.
“We know that too many Rainbow Kiwis continue to experience stigma, discrimination and barriers to accessing the support they need,” she says.
“This is an opportunity for all of us to show our support in a really positive, practical way, while looking after our own wellbeing along the way.”
Funds raised through Pride Unleashed will help support services for rainbow and takatāpui people, including counselling, peer support and affirming sexual healthcare.
The initiative is delivered by Burnett Foundation Aotearoa, with fundraising supporting projects in partnership with RainbowYOUTH and InsideOUT Kōaro.
You Don’t Have To Be A Fitness Fanatic
One of the best things about Pride Unleashed is that you don’t need to be an athlete to participate.
Whether you’re a dedicated daily walker or prefer a leisurely outing with your favourite furry friend, the challenge is designed to encourage movement at your own pace.
And it’s not limited to walking.
“We’re encouraging everyone to get involved. You don’t need to be an athlete, and you certainly don’t need to walk 100 kilometres, you can wheel, ride or jump on a scooter!” Swain says.
“It’s about getting outside, connecting with others and knowing that something as simple as walking your four-legged friend can help make a real difference.”
It’s a chance to enjoy some fresh air, connect with your community and turn an everyday activity into meaningful support for LGBTQ+ people across Aotearoa.
How To Join Pride Unleashed 2026
Getting involved is simple:
- Sign up: Register online for Pride Unleashed.
- Set your goal: Choose a distance that suits you and your four-legged companion.
- Get fundraising: Ask friends, whānau and workmates to sponsor your efforts.
- Move with Pride: Walk, wheel, ride or scooter throughout November and track your progress.
With the challenge starting on Sunday 1 November, now’s the perfect time to round up your crew and get involved.
“We would absolutely love to see Aotearoa come together and help us reach our $150,000 goal,” Swain says.
“So grab the lead, rally your friends and whānau, and let’s put our paws to the cause!”
Pride Unleashed 2026 Details
When: Sunday 1 November – Monday 30 November 2026
Where: Anywhere in Aotearoa New Zealand
Fundraising goal: $150,000
Who can take part: Rainbow communities, allies, friends, whānau and their four-legged companions
Register: Sign up for Pride Unleashed 2026
So whether you’re walking for a friend, your chosen family or the wider rainbow community, every kilometre is another chance to make a difference.
Grab those leads, gather your favourite humans and get ready to unleash your Pride! 🐶🌈
