Ōtautahi Christchurch came alive this March with a spectacular celebration of diversity, inclusion, and community spirit during Pride Month 2025. Across the eastern suburbs, a range of fantastic events brought people together to honour the LGBTQIA+ community, offering safe, welcoming spaces for fun, connection, and celebration

Pride at the Pool – A Celebration for Every Body The festivities kicked off with an unforgettable evening at Te Pou Toetoe, where Pride at the Pool created a space for every body to feel welcome. On Friday, 7 March, attendees enjoyed an inclusive movement session led by Suli from Moana Vā and Yvette from Safe Gains, specifically designed for the rainbow community. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for attendees to unwind in the spa, take a swim, and immerse themselves in a positive and affirming atmosphere. It was a night of laughter, joy, and connection, setting the tone for the rest of the month’s celebrations.

Roll for Pride – Dungeons & Dragons Sessions Libraries in East Christchurch embraced the Pride spirit with the exciting Roll for Pride events at Te Kete Wānanga o Ihutai Linwood Library and Te Kete Wānanga o Oraka Shirley. Held on 14 and 28 March, these beginner-friendly Dungeons & Dragons sessions welcomed adventurers of all identities to step into the world of fantasy, camaraderie, and creativity. Participants embarked on thrilling quests, proving that storytelling and role-playing can be powerful tools for inclusion and belonging.

Pride on Wheels – Roller Derby Exhibition Cowles Stadium turned into a high-energy arena for Dead End Derby’s Pride Month exhibition roller derby. The event showcased the fierce talent of local skaters while celebrating the rainbow community in a dynamic and exhilarating way.

Together We Shine – Storytime in New Brighton Te Kete Wānanga o Karoro New Brighton Library hosted ‘Together We Shine’ storytime, a heartwarming event that brought families together through storytelling. Featuring inclusive tales that celebrated identity, love, and acceptance, the event was a beautiful way to introduce young readers to the values of diversity and pride in a fun and engaging manner.

Queer Bookclub at Aranui Library Literary enthusiasts gathered at Aranui Library for the Queer Bookclub, where members discussed powerful works by LGBTQIA+ authors and explored stories that resonated with their own experiences. The session provided a supportive space for people to share their thoughts, reflect on representation in literature, and connect through a shared love of books.

Rainbow Warriors Dragon Boat Open Day On 29 March, the Rainbow Warriors Dragon Boat team held an open day, inviting new paddlers to try out this exciting water sport. With the Avon River as their backdrop, participants worked together to find rhythm and strength, embodying the spirit of teamwork and inclusivity.

Pasifika Dance Fitness – Moana Vibes Returns Another highlight was the return of Moana Vibes, offering a Pasifika dance group fitness class that got hearts pumping and bodies moving. This event was a fantastic way for attendees to celebrate culture, fitness, and pride in an energetic and joyful atmosphere.

Closing Picnic at Dallington Landing The celebrations concluded on 30 March with a relaxed and festive Closing Picnic at Dallington Landing. Friends, families, and allies came together to share food, laughter, and reflections on a month filled with pride and unity. It was a fitting end to a series of events that highlighted the strength, vibrancy, and love within the LGBTQIA+ community in East Christchurch.

Looking Forward As Pride Month 2025 wraps up, the spirit of inclusivity and celebration continues to resonate throughout the city. The events held across East Christchurch have once again demonstrated the power of community and the importance of spaces where everyone can feel safe, valued, and proud of who they are. Here’s to another year of progress, pride, and unity in Ōtautahi Christchurch!