Standing United for Love, Diversity and Inclusion
Mark your calendars and prepare for a spectacular display of unity and joy! The Auckland Rainbow Parade is back on Saturday, February 21st, 2026, promising an even bigger and brighter celebration for everyone.
Imagine the buzz as dynamic motorised floats roll through the streets, complemented by the fantastic viewing from the Western Park grandstand. For our amazing community groups and supportive workplaces, this is your prime opportunity to showcase your pride and connect with thousands.
Let’s come together to create an electric atmosphere, a vibrant tapestry that celebrates the strength and diversity of our LGBTQIA+ and Ally communities. Get ready for an unforgettable day – we’re excited to celebrate with you!
New Zealand’s Largest LGBTQIA+ Celebration
The Auckland Rainbow Parade is an annual Pride event celebrating the diversity and resilience of New Zealand’s LGBTQIA+ community. The parade pays tribute to the heroes who fought against AIDS in the 1990s, and honours the LGBTQIA+ advocates, representatives, and trailblazers who have paved the way for us all.
By participating in the parade, you can showcase the best of Auckland to LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies from all over the world. This is your chance to express your pride, joy, and celebration.
Together, we can stand united as a community, championing the values of love, diversity, and inclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Parade is free to attend and view along the side walks of Ponsonby Road and public spaces. However a number of venues and the Grandstand are paid/premium ticketed events.
In 2019, a community discussion arose concerning the inclusion of government entities in the parade. This discussion resulted in the cancellation of the Auckland Pride Festival’s parade. In its place, “Our March” emerged, a grass roots protest march from Albert Park to Queen Street advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights. Separately, a new community organisation, “Rainbow Pride Auckland,” formed to continue the tradition of a celebratory pride parade in Ponsonby, celebrating with the rainbow and allied communities.
Yes, this will be our third year welcoming the return of motorised floats, since Rainbow Pride Auckland re-established the Parade in 2020.
No, you are not able to turn up on the day. All Parade participants need to be pre-registered ahead of the parade due to health and safety compliance.
No, there are no age restrictions for people to join our Parade but all under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Yes, please do! We encourage our entries to bring banners that show our crowds who you are and what your message is.
Unfortunately, we don’t facilitate individual entries, but you can volunteer and help us on the day, or we can connect you with an exciting group within the parade.
Yes, all LGBTQIA+ staff and allies from government agencies, including those in defence and emergency services, are welcome to join. We fully support the efforts and progress of individuals within these organisations.