It’s finally time for Pride Festival 2026, a whole month of Pride revelry, joy and shenanigans, and after a year of waiting patiently we are kicking off with a banger. You told us how much you love the Walk for Support and how much you want to stick around once it’s done, so this year we’re proud to introduce you to a new, revamped version: the Pride Parade and Picnic. We’ll be starting at The Commons on the corner of Kilmore St and Durham St North at 2pm on Sunday the 1st of March and strutting our fine selves through the iconic wooden arches of The Commons and down into Victoria Square for an afternoon of Drag, Dance, Moana Vibes and live music. Bring a picnic blanket or chairs, your non-alcoholic drinks, and gather your friends, whānau and chosen family for an afternoon of community, entertainment, and celebration in the heart of Ōtautahi.
And this is just the beginning. Throughout February we will be announcing Pride events, Community events and all of the delicious things coming up as part of Pride Festival 2026. Expect pool parties, roller derby, supper club, the boat trip, hot pools and more bingo than you ever thought possible. Trust us, there’s something for everyone this year, and we cannot wait to celebrate with you.
Pride Parade and Picnic info
Please remember to bring sunscreen and water as it might be warm!
Quiet Spaces:
There are lots of shady spaces under trees and areas that are adjacent to but not directly by the stage if you prefer a more quiet space.
Family friendly space:
Please be aware the Ōtākaro/Avon River runs through the Square, if you bring children you will need to keep an eye on them around the water.
Toilets:
The closest toilets are at the Margaret Mahey Park, a short walk or roll through Oxford Terrace and behind Te Pae on Cathedral Square.
Accessibility:
The Parade part of this event is of a similar length to the previous walk for support but has flat, wide pathways with a slight decline towards the square.
The stage will be on the grass area indicated on the map, there is an incline to get onto the grass area but if you follow the pathway up to Armagh st it is a smoother journey on to the grass.
Volunteers will be available to assist and help with seating or positioning near the stage if needed.
NZ sign interpreter will be present.
There will be no flashing lights or strobes.
Health & Safety:
This event is outside but we recommend staying home if you are sick, or wearing a mask if you wish to.
This event is Smokefree and Alcohol free.
Transport:
Parking/buses – There is paid parking in many areas around Victoria square, the closest bus stop is outside the Town Hall.
If you have any questions about the event or any accessibility enquiries feel free to reach out to contact@chchpride.co.nz