History of Pride in New Zealand – Our Journey to Equality and Celebration

At a Glance – Key Milestones in NZ’s Pride History

• 1972 – First public Pride event: “Gay Day” in Auckland

• 1986 – Homosexual Law Reform Act passed

• 1993 – Human Rights Act includes sexual orientation protections

• 2013 – Same-sex marriage legalised

• 2018 – Gender identity and expression explicitly protected under the Human Rights Act

• 2022 – Conversion therapy banned

Pride in Aotearoa is more than a month on the calendar – it’s the result of decades of courage, activism, and aroha from our rainbow whānau and allies. From the streets of Auckland in the early 1970s to nationwide parades today, New Zealand’s Pride history is uniquely ours, woven with moments of protest, heartbreak, and triumph.

1970s – The Early Days of Pride

New Zealand’s Pride movement began in a climate where LGBTQ+ people faced heavy stigma and legal discrimination.

• 1972 “Gay Day” in Auckland: Organised by the Gay Liberation Front, it was the first public LGBTQ+ gathering in Aotearoa. People came together in Albert Park to celebrate visibility and demand change.

• Throughout the 1970s, gay liberation groups formed in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, advocating for decriminalisation and rights.

1986 – The Homosexual Law Reform Act

After years of campaigning and heated public debate, the Homosexual Law Reform Act passed on 9 July 1986, decriminalising sexual relations between men over the age of 16. The fight wasn’t easy – the campaign faced significant opposition – but its passing was a turning point, sparking greater visibility and activism.

1993 – Human Rights Act

In 1993, the Human Rights Act was passed, prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation. This gave LGBTQ+ New Zealanders stronger legal protection and recognition, although it would take decades before gender identity was explicitly protected.

2013 – Marriage Equality

On 19 August 2013, the Marriage (Definition of Marriage) Amendment Act came into effect, making it legal for same-sex couples to marry in New Zealand. The moment Parliament passed the bill, the public gallery burst into a waiata of celebration – an unforgettable image of aroha and inclusion.

2018 – Protecting Gender Identity

In 2018, the Human Rights Commission clarified that gender identity and expression are protected under the Human Rights Act, strengthening rights for trans and gender-diverse people.

2022 – Conversion Therapy Ban

In February 2022, the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation Act became law, banning harmful and discredited “conversion therapy” practices. This was another milestone in ensuring the dignity and safety of LGBTQ+ people in Aotearoa.

Today – Pride Across Aotearoa

From the month-long Auckland Pride Festival to Wellington’s Pride Hīkoi and countless regional events, Pride today is a joyful mix of celebration and activism. While there’s still work to be done, the visibility and diversity of our events show just how far we’ve come since 1972.

Why We Celebrate at Aroha Pride Co.

Our business exists because of this history – the courage of those who marched before us made it possible to live and celebrate openly today. When you shop with Aroha Pride Co., you’re helping keep that spirit alive, supporting a small Kiwi business committed to visibility and aroha year-round.

Be bold. Be you. Be proud.

With aroha, Charlotte & the Aroha Pride Co. whanau