Event Dates
From: Saturday, February 15, 2025
To: Saturday, February 15, 2025
The Auckland Rainbow Parade celebrates the diversity and spirit of Auckland’s gay community.
The Auckland Rainbow Parade celebrates the diversity and spirit of Auckland’s gay community. Expect lights, floats, glitter, love, and colour!
- Stay close to the parade and events at the Hotel Fitzroy, a “Travel Proud” certified hotel, rated “Wonderful” by guests. We love the hotel’s stylish designer rooms and central location, just a short ride to the parade and from the CBD. Enjoy a delicious breakfast on the porch in a historic building.
The Event
- Next Edition: Saturday 15th February – Part of the Auckland Pride Celebrations
- Make your way to Ponsonby Road in the early evening for the annual Rainbow Parade, which stretches into the night from 7.40 pm until 9.30 pm.
- Enjoy a unique pride experience with spectacular floats, over-the-top costumes, drag queens, sexy boys and a party atmosphere.
- The parade route is lined with allies and well-wishers. Events kick off at 5.30 with several parties and events lighting up Ponsonby Road.
- Awaiting the final parade route. Typically, the event starts from Tole Street, down Ponsonby Road, and goes to Williamson Ave.
- For a unique stay, check out the Great Ponsonby Arthotel, rated ‘Excellent’ by guests. Set in a charming 1890s heritage villa, we love its central location, just a short stroll from Ponsonby’s gay bars, shops and restaurants. The hotel offers a unique blend of history and modern comfort, making it a perfect choice for your stay during the Auckland Rainbow Parade.
The Parade – Best Views?
- Ponsonby, known for its bohemian vibe, is a welcoming hotspot for nightlife. It’s home to several LGBTQ+-friendly bars and clubs, making it a perfect place for everyone to celebrate.
- If you are looking to relax with some food or cocktails while enjoying the parade and atmosphere, check out our favourite places:
- Elmo’s – Out with a group? Elmo’s has you covered with its diverse menu of sharing dishes and pizzas. Don’t miss the burrata bar—it’s a crowd-pleaser.
- Chapel – An institution, for good reason, Chapel is the place to be. Settle in at this prime corner spot for drinks under the sun. Perfect if you’re planning to stay a while.
- Ponsonby Road Bistro – Fantastic outdoor seating and a comforting menu of bistro classics.
- Prego – Head to the ever-reliable Prego for some pasta or pizza. The lively atmosphere will keep everyone happy.
- SPQR – Iconic Ponsonby Road gem is guaranteed to be buzzing right from the start. If you can snag a table, you’re in for a treat.
Recommended Hotels in Auckland
The following hotels are close to the city’s gay bars and tourist attractions and a short ride from the party in the park:
VR Queen Street Hotel, The Langham Auckland, M Social, Ramada Auckland.
Where to stay close to all the gay bars
Our top 4 selections with the best rates.
The Langham Auckland is where we stay
in New Zealand close to the gay centre.
For further information and advice on
Auckland Rainbow Parade visit the Website
The gay bars and clubs are located on Karangahape road and have some good hotel and apartments close by that will not break the bank.
83 Symonds StreetGrafton, Auckland 1010,New Zealand
Designed with your
in mind, 411 modern guestrooms and suites convey a sense of understated sophistication with a blend of woods, handcrafted furniture and quality textiles. Thoughtful extras and stylish interiors reveal an to , reflecting the best in modern design. All rooms feature high-speed internet and WiFi to keep you connected 24/7.Four Points by Sheraton Auckland, 396-406, Queen Street, Aotea Arts Quarter, Auckland Central, Auckland, Waitematā, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
Four Points by Sheraton Auckland offers accommodation with a restaurant, private parking, a fitness centre and a bar. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange for guests. The units come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer and a desk.
219 Federal St, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
All modern apartments are air conditioned and feature a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. There is also a kitchen or kitchenette, fitted with a dishwasher, microwave and toaster. A refrigerator and kettle are also featured. Every unit is fitted with a private bathroom with free toiletries. Towels and bed linen are also included.
200 Quay St, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
Located on the iconic Quay street, M Social offers accommodation in the heart of Auckland. Free WiFi is featured throughout the property.
All 190 rooms overlook the vibrant Princes Wharf and include satellite TV and air conditioning. There is a refrigerator and an en suite bathroom in every room.
36 Sale Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
The apartment features 4 bedrooms, a Living room flat-screen TV with satellite channels, fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and washing machine, 1 bathroom with a bath and shower. FREE WiFi
39 Scanlan Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021, New Zealand
NY air-conditioned Loft offers 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with a bath or shower, a living room with a flat-screen TV & satellite channels & a terrace, fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher. Free WiFi & parking
1010 Auckland, New Zealand
Luxury in the City air conditioned apartment has 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with a shower, a living room a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and washing machine. Free parking and WiFi.
442 Karangahape Road, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Modern and vibrant living with sunny deck on K'rd, the apartment featuring 1 bedroom, a kitchen with a dishwasher and a washing machine, 1 bathroom with a Shower. Access to a patio. Free WiFi
461 Karangahape Road, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Legendary Caluzzi Cabaret is an unforgettable dining experience. Award winning Drag Queen waitress’ will have you laughing from the moment you step through the door and will provide you with excellent and personal service. With a delicious and carefully selected menu, fabulous shows, hilarious comedy and dazzling costumes (not to mention the impressive stilettos!), you can’t go past Caluzzi for Auckland’s ultimate dinner entertainment experience.
Sub Level 1, 25 Dundonald Street, Eden Terrace, Auckland 1021, New Zealand
Gay cruising Bar
New Zealand's biggest, most popular sex-on-site venue for gay & bi men.
335 Karangahape Road, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Bamboo Tiger has finally found its home. This Asian gay freindly fusion Jazz & Cocktail lounge is not to be missed
150 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011, New Zealand
Gay Friendly – Long-running bistro & bar featuring Italian dishes
259 Karangahape Road Auckland, New Zealand 1010
friendly gay local. Come early for cocktails and conversations or late night for dancing and debauchery. Always a good time!
262 Karangahape Road, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Hot theme nights, sexy staff and warm atmosphere + regular Shows
270 Karangahape Road, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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