The Auckland Pride Parade is nearly here!!! We have put together a guide to the hugely-anticipated event so you know everything you need to before Saturday afternoon! The route: The Auckland Pride Parade route travels in a northerly direction up Ponsonby Road from Western Park to Three Lamps. Ponsonby Road and all adjoining streets will be closed to traffic from midday till 9pm. All day parking restrictions apply on Ponsonby Road and all adjoining roads. What time does the parade start: 4PM. When should I arrive: Parade boss Jonathan Smith suggests arriving from 2PM onwards as there will entertainment on the parade route to get you warmed up. Parking: on-street parking costs have gone up in Auckland, so we recommend the Cross St Car Park, just behind K’ Rd. It is incredibly cheap compared to other parking buildings, and just a short walk to Ponsonby Rd. Public transport: is probably the best way to get to the parade for Aucklanders. All bus services will be operating to a normal Saturday service. Minor route changes are in place on Bus 20 and 30 (now operating via Beaconsfield Street). The Inner Link will be operating via Wellington and Pitt Streets. For more information check www.maxx.co.nz. Disabled access and mobility parking: is available on Hopetoun St. What to wear: Rainbow colours! Be outrageous! Think fabulous! Even if you’re not in the parade you will still be part of the atmosphere. What should I bring? Something noisy! Smith is urging people to bring some kind of sound making device to join in the fun!! What isn’t allowed? Booze (a liquor ban is in place and will be enforced). Do NOT cross the barrier, do NOT throw things at the floats, do NOT climb on canopies or awnings. Who should I bring: Everyone! The parade will be family appropriate, if you want to bring kids or your nana. Best view: If you want to be guaranteed a view without having to save your spot for hours beforehand - and want to be able to have a drink and catering service, the Gay Auckland Business Association is running a “Glamstand”. It comes at a cost of $85 (or $75 for GABA members) however the proceeds do go to GABA’s Charitable Trust arm. Get tickets here. How will I know the parade is coming: Look out for a silver 1970s fire engine – that means the lead float is on the way! How can I get the best experience: If you get to know the marshal standing closest to you they can give you a run-down of all the floats. And Smith would LOVE it if you would start a Mexican wave!! What’s the theme? This year’s Auckland Pride Parade theme is ‘One Community’, reflecting a Rainbow Community that is one in its diversity and a community that has its place within the wider community. Look out for the marching boys! What to expect: Explosions of colour, flashing sequins, over the top drag queens, hot toned bodies, wild dancing, fantastic music and even a full choir performing live on the back of a truck – all happening on a stage over 1.5kms long! Toilets: will be located on Pompallier Terrace, Brown St, Pember Reeves St, Franklin Rd and Crummer Rd. Common sense: Be sure to drink lots of water throughout the afternoon to stay hydrated, especially when watching the Parade for a few hours in the hot sun. Sunscreen is a good idea if you’re going to be out in the sun for any amount of time. There are many pharmacies and retail outlets along Ponsonby Road if you run out. Lost and found: For any Lost