A happy busload of international GLBTI people enjoyed a magical two-hour tour of Wellington yesterday afternoon, as part of the AsiaPacific Outgames. Co-guide Dr Alison Laurie emphasised the widespread communities of lesbians and gay men who had lived in Wellington. Hugh Young focussed on famous queer folk who had lived there or passed through. On the way up Mt Victoria Alison pointed out houses where lesbian parties had been held, and coming down Hugh read Frank Sargeson's fictionalised account of cruising the bushes there. Chraracters like Arthur Tauhore, Carmen, and long-term partners Bette Armstrong and Bea Arthur were remembered on a winding route through the city and its many sites of queer interest, from murders to lesbian networking to HIV/AIDS awareness and law reform. The tour reached Katherine Mansfield Park - where a handout given to the tour guests showed Sargeson walking with (Dame-to-be) Ngaio Marsh - right next to the US Embassy. The United States' first openly gay Ambassador, David Huebner, was at the Asia Pacific Outgames opening ceremony with his partner, Dr Duane McWaine, and will speak at the Human Rights Conference. GayNZ.com Daily News staff - 14th March 2011
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Monday, 14th March 2011 - 9:41am