The title of this recording is "Wellington Pride Parade 2025". It is described as: Audio from the Wellington Pride Parade 2025. The parade was held on Saturday 8 March 2025, starting at 5pm. It was recorded in Courtenay Place, Wellington on the 8th March 2025. This is a recording of an event and features the voices of Alex Geenty, Anna Simpson, Ard van der Vorst, Arrun Soma, Craig Watson, Emily Bathgate, Gaye Searancke, Glen Bennett, Halcy Thomas, Hamish Allardice, Jen Wilde, Jo Maxwell, Peter Mersi, Phil Rogers, Quinn Cassidy, Rachael Archer, Rev. Jean Malcolm, Sandra Marekino, Shanan Halbert, Sian Quennell Torrington, Tabby Besley, Tania Penafiel and Yuval Zalk-Neale. It also includes interviews conducted by Gareth Watkins. Their names are spelt correctly, but may appear incorrectly spelt later in the document. The duration of the recording is 1 hour and 24 minutes, but this may not reflect the actual length of the event. A list of correctly spelt content keywords and tags can be found at the end of this document. A brief description of the recording is: Audio from the Wellington Pride Parade 2025. The parade was held on Saturday 8 March 2025, starting at 5pm. Parade participants gathered in Tennyson Street, and headed into Cambridge Terrace before starting the parade in Courtenay Place. The parade travelled along Courtenay Place and into Dixon Street, before ending at the Rainbow Crossing at the intersection of Dixon and Cuba Streets. A small group of Destiny Church supporters protested the parade by performing a haka at the Taranaki Street intersection. A similar protest had occurred a month earlier at Auckland's Rainbow Parade. The content in the recording covers the 2020s decade. A brief summary of the recording is: The Wellington Pride Parade 2025, held on 8 March in the capital city’s central district, was a vibrant and powerful celebration of Aotearoa New Zealand’s rainbow communities. Drawing together participants from diverse backgrounds, the event served not only as a joyful march through the heart of Wellington but also as a meaningful reflection of the progress, resilience, and ongoing challenges faced by rainbow communities across the country. The parade route followed Courtenay Place into Dixon Street, concluding at the symbolic Rainbow Crossing on the corner of Dixon and Cuba Streets. This year’s gathering was marked by heightened awareness of recent social tensions, particularly following disruptive protests at Auckland’s Rainbow Parade, and organisers implemented a deliberate focus on safety, peace, and mana-enhancing responses to any potential opposition. Among the many voices featured in the event’s extensive audio coverage were community members, activists, public servants, and representatives of cultural and faith-based organisations. One of the parade’s key messages was inclusivity across all identities, emphasising the intersectionality within rainbow communities. Notably, intersex visibility was given prominence, with Intersex Trust Aotearoa New Zealand (ITANZ) marching at the front of the parade. Dykes on Bikes returned with enthusiasm, symbolising grassroots pride and long-standing commitment to visibility and solidarity. Participants noted the parade's evolution over the years, celebrating its ability to maintain a local, accessible atmosphere while growing in organisation and diversity. Organisational representation included a wide range of sectors. Woolworths New Zealand and Transpower were among corporate allies present, alongside Wellington City Council and governmental groups such as the Cross-Agency Rainbow Network (CARN) and public service leaders. These entities underscored their commitment to inclusive workplaces, often referencing initiatives like the Rainbow Tick accreditation and internal support networks for queer employees. Cultural diversity was also strongly represented. Indian Origin Pride New Zealand brought vibrant colour, dance, and heritage to the streets, while Hineni, the Jewish rainbow group from Wellington, marched in defiance of both antisemitism and queerphobia, promoting co-existence and solidarity. The Dutch and Irish embassies participated as international allies, reinforcing global support for LGBTQIA+ rights. Youth involvement was prominent through groups such as InsideOUT Kōaro and Kāhui Irarau from Massey University. These organisations highlighted the importance of visibility for young people, especially within educational institutions. Many youth shared personal stories about finding connection, support, and empowerment through participation. Accessibility was a core focus for the 2025 parade. Grandstands and low-sensory environments were provided to ensure the event was inclusive for disabled and neurodiverse attendees. The importance of community care and ensuring everyone could participate safely was echoed throughout the planning and execution of the parade. Spiritual and historical connections to rainbow identity were also present. Rev. Jean Malcolm and members of St. Peter’s Church carried pride flags and reflected on the legacy of inclusive faith-based activism, dating back to Rev. Godfrey Wilson’s landmark sermon in 1967. The mood throughout the event was celebratory and defiant. Participants consistently spoke of pride not just as a festival, but as a necessary act of resistance in a world where queer and trans lives are increasingly under threat. From drag performers and community choirs like The Glamaphones to volunteer bakers distributing treats, every group and individual contributed to a sense of shared joy and collective strength. The full transcription of the recording begins:  My name is Tania Penafiel Bermudez and we are at Tennyson Street. Um, this is the Pride Parade set up and my crew for Dykes on Bikes, friends and allies. We've got so far, about 10 of us already here, but we are expecting about 30 and we're just, um, dressing up the bikes in ourselves, getting ready. Now, this is not the first time that Dykes on Bikes have been in the Parade Desert? Not at all. We, um, 2019 was the first time, um, and it was just a friend of mine said, Hey, you should do Dykes on Bikes. And I said, yeah, I should. And we, so we just did. Yeah, it was great. So having that kind of period of time, can you, um, describe the, the kind of changes in, in, in the Pride Parade? Have, have you seen any or noticed any differences? I think that, um, we've noticed the organization has been even bigger and better every year. Um, but it's still maintaining and retaining that Wellington feel of. Local and friendly and, um, reachable, you know, close to the public. So yeah, it's really fantastic. Um, our group has grown and, um, yeah, no, it's just every year has been better and better. Yeah. Why do you, why do you come here personally? Oh, because you have to maintain the rights that you've, you've earned. Um, so lots of people have done the hard mahi before us, and now we, it's up to us to maintain that and also fight for the, um, for our fellow, um, the, the people that are trans, Taka, tapi and non-binary folks that are still struggling every day with their rights and, and under fire. So we're here for them. We're honoring them today. Our guest, our guest, celebrity guest is, um, Hugo Girl. And, uh, and yeah, so, you know, it's, it's about everyone. We all ride and rise together. Can you paint a picture of, of the kind of current mood for rainbow communities, uh, in this country? What, what, what, what's it like to be rainbow? Yeah. I think it's a bit dark at the minute. We are feeling a bit nervous, a bit, um, under attack, uh, especially due to some people that we won't mention. Um, and we know we are expecting them today, but we, we are gonna be peaceful. We're gonna be, um, ready to face whatever we need to face. But no, it's, it's a dark time all around the world for, uh, rainbow communities. Again, that's why we're here today, just to keep strong and to keep fighting for our rights. If you hit some, uh, words of encouragement for, for, uh, uh, somebody in the rainbow community that couldn't be here today, what would that, what would that be? Um, to look after yourself. Um, you, the, you know, to be you and be proud no matter what. Um, Kia Kaha. Yeah, I think that if you can't make it, that's okay of, you know, just know that we're here for you and, um, you know, reach out, reach out if you need support. Ura, I'm Beck. I believe we are standing in Wellington somewhere near Tennyson Street, across from some amazing looking motorcycles and some interesting lesbians. And, and so why are we here today? Um, I think right now it is kind of, um, we are, we are looking down at things that are approaching our community. Um, and so now's the opportunity for us to band together, um, and to get back to more the original meaning of pride and show that we're, we are here, we're sticking together, um, and that you can't. Suppress us. You know, we are, we're gonna be looking out for each other and keeping our community strong and alive. So is this the first pride event you've been to? This is my second. Oh, so what was the first? The first was in Auckland a couple of weeks ago. Wow. And can you describe that? How was that? I have never even watched a pride parade before, and immediately I'm in the dam thing and on the back of the truck, I can't describe the feeling, the love that came to us from the sidelines, from the people waving at the balconies on the top of the bar. Thank you Auckland. Um, I have been to a couple of Christchurch prides, um, and, uh, pride across Europe, but this is my first time in Wellington. I'm very excited to be here. I'm really excited. So do you think there is a difference between, say, the pride festivities or, um, events in Auckland, the Christchurch and Wellington? I'd say so, yeah. Um, I think, um, each community in this country faces its own unique issues and, and, um, organizes in its own unique way. And it's really lovely to, to go across the country and see how people, uh, total core each other, um, and how the community, um, organizes itself and looks out for each other. It's, it's really special to see each individual reflection of that. And so your experiences of pride, how, how have they been? They've been good. Um, pride has always been, if I've ever been by myself, there's always people who are around to, to spend time with you, to make you feel comfortable, to introduce you to new people. Um, and even when there have been people there who are against who we are or prejudiced in some way, people have always stepped in to, um, protect others and make sure they feel safe and welcome no matter what. Um, I've always just felt so comfortable and, and, um, supported being at Pride. So it's such a special thing for me. If you had, uh, words of encouragement for, for somebody in the rainbow communities that couldn't be here today, what would that be? Just be yourself. I'm here for every flavor of human and I love to watch every single flavor of human. If you are alive today, thank you for coming. Thank you for staying. You rock. Um, I would say everyone has some way to support, uh, themselves and support their community. Whether it's big or small, whatever you do makes a difference. So just don't be afraid to, to be there for people and to really look after yourself as well. Yeah. So, um, Emily Bathgate, she, her and I am co-chair of Queer at Council, um, here at the Pride Parade. What is Queer at Council? Um, so really it's just a network for those who work at Wellington City Council to come together, have some fun, um, allies and all identities. Welcome to it. So what is it like being part of that group at council? Um, it's really fun. We. Uh, probably still in a bit of an emerging stage, so getting set up, getting some things, um, going with my co-chair, Ash. Um, so yeah, just a bunch of different activities, but pride is our first big event of the year. So yeah. Looking forward to what comes next. And can you describe how you are, um, decorating the, the, the, the vehicle? Well, over here we have our lovely assistants who have done an amazing job. Do you wanna introduce both yourselves? No. Okay. Um, so I do have two very beautiful people who have helped, um, us decorate the car. So we've got an electric vehicle here. It's got bit of, what would you call this? Rainbow ribbon sparkle work on the bonnet tinsel. Beautiful. Um, different types of hearts. And a banner on the back as well. And is this the first, uh, pride event you've been involved in? Yes, for me personally, um, I believe council's come a few times before, though. And, and can you describe the feeling? Yeah, it's pretty cool to, uh, a little bit nervous, but I'm sure it'll be fine. Th this year has been, um, particularly difficult for even last year as well in terms of just some of the, the, the, the nasty stuff that's going around for rainbow communities. I'm wondering, can, can you paint a picture for what it's like now in rainbow communities in um, yeah. I think it's a really difficult time for those who are rainbow or takatapui in our communities. Um, I think the introduction of people like Trump into the world has empowered a lot of hate, um, which is really sad to see. But it's really nice to be able to lean into our communities and each other in these times. Um, really luckily as well, we have a really strong ally in Tori Fau who helps lead this beautiful parade for us, um, and is very much there to support our communities, um, during this time and all times. Mm. If you had some words of encouragement for, for someone that couldn't be here today, what would they be? Um, we see you. Uh, so we are on Tennison Street in Tower and we're setting up and waiting, um, for people, the groups to come together for the Pride Parade 2025. And who are you with today? Um, so I'm leading The Good Bitches Baking, which is a volunteer organization that I'm part of where we basically bake goods and deliver them to people who are having a hard time. Organizations like, um, women's Refuge, Wellington City Mission, um, DCM, all kinds. Um, and we're a nationwide network. Yeah. Um, and also just, um, just some friends and we were going to have Baron Hasselhoff on board, but he couldn't make it. But we do have a bunch of his chocolates to hand out, so we're gonna be handing out, um, cookies that I made in his chocolates during the parade. So, um, how did, how did good Bitches and Badass Bakers come about? Oh, that was me. I just, I wanted to come up with something a bit original, um, and something, I guess, yeah, a little bit out there. Um, it was totally one of my crazy ideas and I just decided to do it. Um, I was a Marshall last year. Yeah. And I just really wanted to sort of take it up to the next level and do something fun. Yeah. And how's the baking been received? Um, so actually Craig, who is on the committee or the organizers, he ordered some for the volunteers as well. Um, so we are hoping that the baking that we're handing out to the crowd will be received, um, enthusiastically. I have some vegan baking as well, so, um, yeah. Uh, sort of individually wrapped in and. Put ribbons on all of them at home. So yeah, hoping, hoping they'll be, they'll be, um, enjoyed. And can, can you describe some of the baking? Um, so I've made, uh, gingerbread vegan and non-vegan, and I have iced them with, um, so royal izing for the non-vegan and the, uh, just a glaze with rose water and lemon flavoring for the vegan ones. Yeah. And some stickers as well. Um, from good bitches. Yeah. So, so if somebody can't be here today and somebody's part of the rainbow community, do you have a words of, uh, encouragement for them? I think, um, I think just stay, like, um, tuned in and stay connected and I think, I think as a part of the rainbow, uh, identifying as rainbow myself as well, just like. Staying connected and knowing that you are valued, um, especially at a time like this where the, um, poli political climate overseas and everything is quite scary. Um, and the stuff that's been happening in Auckland. But, um, I think just stay connected and know that you are part of a big community and we, we are really, we are really glad to have everybody. Yeah. Yeah. Kta, I'm Demi, I'm one of the volunteers, uh, particularly I'm helping out with, uh, organizing the parade lineup. So I am in charge of groups. In the one and two category. And yeah, just getting them all set up and making sure they know what they're doing. So, so, so what are the energy levels like so far? Yeah, no, it's very exciting. I think, um, there we are very organized, which means there's actually quite a lot of waiting, which I think is less fun. Um, so there's lots of groups who have come very early, which is amazing. But there is, yeah, lots of waiting. Um, I'm sure at some point it'll get very chaotic, but so far it's been really great. Yeah. So how did you get into volunteering? Um, I just saw it was happening and, uh, emailed the, um, I think there was a email on the Wellington Pride, uh, page, um, offering to volunteer. Yeah. Is this the, um, the first pride event you've been involved in? Uh, yeah. Yeah. I have nothing else to say about that. Yeah, no. Why do you, why do you think pride events are important? Uh, I think, uh, particularly at the moment, there's a lot of, um, discourse, uh. A lot of homophobic and transphobic discourse going on around the world, and I think it's really nice for everyone to show up for their communities and yeah, show support. Yeah. Can you give me a sense of the, the, the types of groups that are performing or, or in the parade this year? Yeah, there's a whole bunch from, um, kind of community groups, uh, like intersex and dykes and Bikes, um, here representing the community. There's corporate groups as well, getting involved, um, which is great. And then there's performing groups, uh, who are different, like dance studios or, um, yeah, other creatives that are coming to support the parade. Uh, are you able to give me some of the, the, the names of the groups? Yeah. So in my group, the big ones, yeah. Dykes and Bikes. You've got Intersex, rainbow Wellington, queer Act Council, uh, everybody eats Kai, communities of Porny. Uh, one of the performing groups is a studio, December Wellington. Um, yeah, heaps and, uh, lots of mana groups as well. Wow. That sounds, uh, uh, amazing. If, if, if somebody couldn't be here today and you wanted to give them some kind of words of encouragement, what, what would that be? Oh, just that, uh, I hope you know that Wellington is showing up a strong force for you guys today, um, and that you are seen and always welcome to express yourself in our city. Hi, I am Rachel Archer. I'm a cub and a rover here in Wellington, and I'm currently setting up our scouts car with a bunch of rainbow flags, and we're all got lovely rainbow scarves and uniforms on and here to represent scouts in the Pride parade. Wow. Is this the first pride parade you've been in? Yes. And, and what, what's the feeling like? Um, I'm very excited. I'm seeing all these other floats and rainbows and smiling people and everyone being supportive, so, yeah. That's great. So how long have, um, Scouts been involved with Pride Parades? Um, for a few years now. Yeah. Um, this is definitely a, a returning. A returning group. So we're really happy to be, to be part of it and to be invited along. And, and so why is it important for scouts to be here? Um, so Scouts is a youth organization, so we really want to be supportive and inclusive of all different types of people, especially young people, because that's so, um, influential, uh, to young lives. So, yeah. And, and so why was it important for you, for you to be here today? Oh, for me, um, I just really want to be supportive of the community and I'm within the rainbow community myself. Um, so it's, it's just really awesome to help to organize this and to be there for the kids and to have a great time. So, so within scouts, are there, um, particular groups like focused on kind of rainbow communities or rainbow activities? So within our wider organization, organization, we do have a diversity and inclusion team. Um, so that's a. Uh, team run by adults, but we also have, um, youth led, um, teams to give, uh, feedback about different things. Um, but within the actual scouting movement, our, um, scout lawyers to have respect to do what is right and be positive. And we can't do that if we are not including everybody who wants to be our part of scouting. So, yeah. Just finally, if, um, somebody in the rainbow community couldn't be here today, but um, just needed some words of encouragement, uh, what, what, what would you say to them? Oh, um, well, this whole event is in celebration of you, and even if you're not here, you are still a part of it and you're still just as important. Yeah. So my name is Yuval z Neil and my tiny child don't want me to talk with others. We're not allowed to talk with strangers, but I know him. I saw him many times and I am, I guess I'm the chair person also for Hini, which means, uh, here I am. Uh, and it's, uh, the Jewish Rainbow Group, uh, in Wellington. And I think we operate already some years, two, three years. And in the. In the Jewish, uh, space where we accommodating, facilitating also, um, just, uh, social catchups, but also, uh, helping people to, with their identity and their cultural or, uh, religious belief as Jewish people. Uh, lately we even started to collaborate with the more orthodox part, uh, of the Jewish community that, uh. Really open up their doors. And so that was really nice to see. And yeah, that's what we're doing. And so why was it important for the group, uh, to be here today? Today? It was, well, so the secret, uh, the, there was like the 7th of October, which was, uh, a attack on the, the Jewish people in Israel and also other communities and a lot of people who suffered, uh, Jewish people and also the other side Palestinians also suffered. And since then, there is a lot of antisemitism and hate towards Jewish people and misrepresentation of also Jewish people, but also Jewish queer people. And from one hand we got a lot of love from community and from people. So we want to give back and just show a positive light. And for the other hand, also a lot of community members. From the rainbow part said it's a bit, we have a bit enough of hiding and, and we want to be here and we want to show that it's okay for people also to believe in God, also to be, go in with their culture. And I think that we are also the only faith group in this parade. So from one hand we want to show that it's possible to have faith, to practice your culture, to practice your religion, and, and also to be there outside and say. We are not afraid from, from anything. And we want to be responsible, uh, for our own, uh, for our own, uh, not sake, but how would you say for our own destiny? Uh, probably not a good name to say at this moment, destiny and motorbikes in the background. But, uh, it's, it's like important for us to be a part of Wellington and, and we really appreciate also the rainbow community that does a lot for the, for the society here and also, and also us, uh, giving back to also the Jewish and also to the rainbow community. Mm. It, it must have been such a, a, a seismic event, which happened in October last year. How has that reverberated, uh, within the kind of Jewish and Jewish queer communities say in? So I think it's, it's open at the dialogue that we didn't have before and sometimes we still avoid to have a dialogue of what is our relationship to Israel. From my end, it's like, I'm from Israel, my entire family is there, so it shocked me to the bones and, uh, I lost good people. And so for, from my end, it's actually brought me more back to loving the place from where I am and be consistent worries for other Jewish people, it's a Jewish rainbow people, it's make them realize that to be Jewish, it's like to be rainbow no matter where you enter the room. You will be always checked on your, on what you think, and you always need to be in fear to share your identity. So I think it's brought us a lot of together. But then also there are other parts of the community that has brought them far away. They don't want to be a part of, of the mess, and they don't want to handle their emotions. And then our space is, I need to be neutral always. So I'm neutral. I try to be neutral as much as possible and accommodate everyone. And I hope I sometimes succeed more than what I believe that I I am. But it's hard. It's a hard job to today being in the parade. This is, this is a very, um, public showing. Uh, of, of, of groups. And, uh, I'm guessing, I mean, I, I certainly, I've sensed within Wellington, you know, both, um, a lot of strong feeling towards, you know, um, Palestine and, and Israel. I mean, how, how are you preparing for that? Because, I mean, you just don't know what will happen, will you? Yeah, like for one end, it's like we are Jewish people and we, we have no contact to Israel politically wise. Like we cannot, uh, make any decision there. Like, we cannot change minds. We, we, like, it's not our role in society. We like we Jewish, and that's, that's what they do. We work in God, or we work in our community, and, and that's our role. And I don't think that everybody understand it again. And it's not common that you will see an Israeli who leads a Jewish group overseas. It's, it just happened here. Uh. Okay. And so from this end, like I hope that the public understand that it's not always intertwined. And even if it is in my role, I, I am trying to be neutral as possible. From the other hand, then we, we understand that there are biased against Jewish people and against Israel. Unfair bias, I would say even. And, and if something happen, we, 'cause there is a fear and we have some people that are vulnerable people or more vulnerable people that will not come because they're afraid of, of getting attacked here or, or have a fear for their own safety. And, and even I had my doubts. Um, so we will try to take the high road and avoid as much as possible, uh, anything that has to do with, with the conflict. 'cause again, our role here is to say thank you. And, and show to people that there's other ways of coexisting of love that is possible to do. If there was, um, someone in the rainbow communities, uh, that, that, that couldn't be here today, um, what kind of words of encouragement, uh, would you give them? Uh, I remember my first fight parade. Let's, let's go back. Tel Aviv, huge, huge parade. I think it was like a hundred thousand of people. And, and I was 24, maybe something like 23 when my first boyfriend, sorry, her partner marriage. But when you, when you are in the parade, parade and even, you know, Wellington's smaller than what we see overseas, it's like. You celebrate your culture, you celebrate your people. You see beautiful and amazing creative people that have the similar journey to you. And, and I think the question was why? Why to come in. In other words, it's like celebrate yourself, be free. And there's something amazing in New Zealand, in Ottawa where we are free. We don't have too many fights, like we need to support our transfer now. And we, and there are, there's homophobia in the public spaces, but in general compared to the rest of the world, we are in a good spot. And, and I think that alone is the reason to come and celebrate and to maintain it. We always need to be in public so people will see that we are in public, like the Jewish C oh Ano. I'm Joe from Wellington Airport. We are here at the Wellington Pride Parade, celebrating Wellington, celebrating diversity and love in all its forms. And you've not only brought people, you've also brought a, a, a very multicolored van. Yeah, actually we've got two vehicles in the parade today. We've got, um, van, no diesel, who's, uh, e van that's out and about on the, on the runway, um, which is painted up with, um, pride colored decals all year around. And then we're also bringing one of our firetrucks a panther here this afternoon as well. So why is it important for Wellington Airport to, to be in the parade? Well, we really support, um, all of Wellington. We are the airport for everyone. And, um, we think it's really important to celebrate diversity in all its forms, and really proud to be a silver sponsor of the Pride Parade and, um, be here for the second year in a row. Can you describe the feeling of doing that first Pride parade? Uh, well, I must say I felt like I was a celebrity walking around. Just the atmosphere was amazing. Um, just so much celebration, just great to be even the part where we were waiting before the parade actually starts. Just all of Wellington businesses and organizations here at celebrating together. So just such a vibe now, if somebody couldn't be here today, um, is there any words of encouragement you would give them if, if they really want to be here? Uh, look, there's lots of opportunity to be here. Lots of groups welcome people to parade with them. There's lots of different opportunities for people to, um, to, um, be involved in the different sensory, um, aspects, whether it's being on the bus, if you can't walk and parade, or being in the low sensory area or in the stadium seating. Um, for people who can't stand for long times, there's lots of opportunities for that. Um, but I know the parade last time, if you can't make it here, celebrated a lot of content online. So get a look on the Facebook page, um, see all the video clips and, and you'll certainly feel a bit of that celebration from wherever you are. Kia ua and we are here getting ready for the Pride Parade 2025 in Tata. And what, what's directly in front of us? That's actually a really good question. Uh, I'm not sure what that is. It's massive, massive truck that does rescue of some kind. Looks like a, a, a rescue vehicle from, from the airport. Wow. It's very impressive. Oh my. So, so, so who are you here today with? I'm here with Massey University and Kahu editor. So Kawi Ido is the LG btt LGBTQIA A plus support group over at Massey University. Um, and they're, uh, absolutely wonderful support for all students, staff, and just community members as well. And, and what's your involvement with, with them? Uh, I'm the Rainbow Massey Guide for the P yahoo campus here in Wellington. Uh, so initially we've had guides around Massey for years before this point, and, um, they wanted to kind of give new students an openly and visibly queer person to come to if that was something that they were more comfortable with. Um, so we have a few different rainbow guides for each campus and it, and I just happened to be one of them, and it's just to welcome those new students and have support for the students that have been there for a while. And so do you many do, do you get many people coming to you? Uh, yeah. I noticed I started to be recognized around campus whenever I'm studying and I happen to spend time in our Rainbow room and people come by and be like, do you know where Block Forest is usually? I'm like, no, not really, but I can, we'll figure it out. So why, why is it important for Massi to be here today? I think it's important for any, um, you know, education provider to be here to make sure your students feel safe and welcomed as they are entirely in their community where they're supposed to learn and improve themself. I think it's such an important thing and building that community that makes you feel so much more solid in yourself to take out into the world is just such a massive part of learning about anything. So, so what is the feeling of doing a Pride parade or, or, or any pride event? Um, I absolutely love doing pride events. I, I think they make. Uh, the whole space feels so warm and welcoming and to, to see, uh, people like yourself being so openly them and, you know, people that are further in their journey or people that are just starting it. Just seeing this whole range of where everyone is at, uh, is such a warm and like inside Fuzzy's experience. What, why, why do you think, um, pride events are so important? I think it's a really important thing. Um. That people don't get pushed under a rug. You know, like I queer people and say, TA tapi. People from New Zealand have always been here, despite the attempts to make that seem like that wasn't the case. And so I think having these events being so public and open and welcoming, really it, it enforces that we are here. We always have been here, and we always will be here. You can't push us under a rug or anything. Well, if somebody couldn't be here for, for whatever reasons today, what, what kind of words of encouragement would you give them? Oh, that's totally fine. Do what you need to do. Um, we would've loved to have everyone here, of course, but everyone has other things going on and just prioritize what you needed to prioritize. But no matter if you are here or at any other queer event, or if you're anywhere in your journey, just you are the person that you are. And that's absolutely valid and beautiful and wonderful. And whether you make it to pride or not, that doesn't change. So we are here in Central Wellington and we are preparing right now for. The Pride Parade down Courtney Place, which is a beautiful, uh, set of colors and sounds marching our way through Central Wellington. Um, we are just getting our truck ready right now, um, and it's gonna be adorned with all things Indian, um, rainbow flags and Indian flags. And we, uh, have Indian dances that'll be dancing down to Bollywood music and a whole host of people behind us with beautiful embroidered Indian umbrellas to show our true colors, um, of Indian origin, pride New Zealand. I, I think I might have interviewed you, uh, just after Indian Origin Pride had started. How is, how's it going? It Indian Origin Pride. New Zealand's been going really well. We launched about five years ago in Parliament, um, sponsored by mps and we've seen an incredible growth, both our online audience, um, so people tuning into our social media posts and the things we're putting out there, but also people that have been coming along to, uh, our peer support program. We hold retreats in person and online peer support, um, and also to, um, March with us at Pride Events, um, to come and see us at our stalls. People are really interested both the Indian community and the Rainbow community. So this is a national group here. It's a national organization that we launched. It started in Wellington, but we knew there was a, um, a demand from all over New Zealand. So this year we're gonna be at, um, we, we've been at Auckland, um, pride Parade and, and Big Gay Out. We'll be at Wellington's Pride Parade and out in the city we're gonna be in Christchurch at the, um, pride Flea Market. We're also looking to be in Hamilton and Topo as well. It's really important for us to get to as many places in New Zealand, um, as possible. So, so are there differences between like the, um, the feelings within Pride in Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, other centers? I think different cities turn out in different ways and in different numbers. But it's really important, um, that we are there to kind of showcase who we are. So, um, so we can be there to capture the audience's imagination, particularly with our organization, which is a really niche organization for a, um, cultural group, really. Um, it's about us being able to celebrate, uh, ourselves, uh, culturally as Indians, uh, as well as our, our rainbow selves as well, both identities. So, um, what for you, over the last five years, what, what has been the biggest, what's had the biggest impact on you? Me personally is seeing the organization grow and more people, particularly in the mainstream, becoming aware of it. Um, that's with the likes of mainstream media. Um, for example, uh, one thing that's been beautiful to me, for me to watch is to watch the number of people coming forward because we feel that each one of those people that comes forward to us is hopefully a life changed or a life, um, that, um, we can help to influence in a positive way. We know that there are many stories behind that. People face their own adversities, particularly being Indian and Rainbow and from other ethnic diverse groups. Um, but seeing every individual come forward is always meaningful, and it's really important for us to connect with them. If, if somebody couldn't be here today, what kind of encouragement could, could you give them? Um, if, if they were just hearing this online? If someone can't be here today to see this play out. Go and look at our, uh, Instagram page and our Facebook page and see what we're posting. It's a real, true, uh, symbolism that we like to showcase, which is our cultural selves and our rainbow selves. And hopefully what you see and what you hear will make you know that you have a community here for you. And that's the most important thing. Sometimes people, it's not the right time for them to come forward to us. Um, sometimes they may never come forward at all. That's okay. Um, but we are here when they are ready and that's the most important part. We are not going away. Yeah. Um, I'm Alex. I am the communications and content manager at Cricket Wellington, and I'm here as part of our Pride Action Group today, um, which is a recently formed group at work that we're just trying to push forward some of our goals that we've been working towards. Anyway, I. We recently became the first cricketing organization in the country to receive the Rainbow Tech. We recently held our first pride round ever at the Super Smash game. We partnered with Inside Out and other local charities like that to bring that data life. And so this becomes a natural extension of that and our journey and I guess making our game more accessible, more friendly to all people. You know, it's a, it's a goal of our organization to make our game accessible to everyone. We're obviously quite historically like a white male sport. So to be able to, I guess, push those barriers and try and make ourselves more inclusive is something we've been working hard on for the last couple of years and we're excited to be here today on the back of that work. So, um, is this your first parade event? Um, I think Alex and I went last, well, we went to see it. We weren't in the, the parade. So this is our first Yeah. Time kind of being in the parade. What's the feeling like? Oh, it's exciting. It's so nice to see so many people like dressed up and like, it's very colorful. I feel a little underdressed, if anything. Um, but yeah, it's fun. And how about you? Yeah, so this is my first Wellington Pride, um, parade. But I've been involved in, um, doing pride events back home. So I'm here studying, um, I'm doing a degree here in New Zealand, so that's how, um, I ended up in this neck of the woods. And I, um, I volunteer as part of the Rainbow advisory group that Alex just spoke about. Um, so I'm here in that kind of capacity. But yeah, it's uh, it's my first one here and it's really exciting and it's cool to see all this like, work coming together and that kind of thing. So, yeah. So, so can you compare like what pride is like in New Zealand to, uh, back home? Yeah, sure. I mean, I'm from a tiny island in the middle of the Irish Sea, so I'm from the Isle of Man originally and we only had our first pride a couple years ago, and then there was a bit of backlash for doing that pride event, and so it then got canceled. Um, so it's nice to actually be somewhere and living somewhere where I can proudly be queer and not have to worry too much. I mean, there still always is that worry. Um, but I, I definitely feel more comfortable being here in Wellington. I felt like I've been able to express myself more freely and be able to actually meet more people and form a community, which has been really, really cool. Um, I think about my younger queer self probably would absolutely froth being here, so it's really cool to sort of be, yeah, be able to have something like this in the first place. So what, what does pride mean to you? I think it means accessibility and it means opening doors that might've been closed. Um, like I say, if we're talking in cricket terms, you might not feel safe playing in, for example, an all boys team where being gay or being anything that's not straight, essentially we'll be locked down upon. Um, and so if we can change that little by little, we come here, we show people it's okay to be different. You can engage with us. Honestly, a lot of our clubs do a really good job in this space. And so we can help push people towards safer playing environments. I think everyone's stronger for that. What about you? Uh, it's pride's community. Like for me, it's, a lot of my friends are, are queer and it's just like a great way to like meet people and, and get to know people and have like this kind of quite strong bond. Uh, and share that in common. Yeah, those guys took both of my words. Um, I think my, I think the other word I'd throw is just like inclusion. It's making this as a place for all, whether you are queer or whether you're an ally. Like I think that's an equally important part as well. Like I've got it where like my partner's coming down and he's straight, but he sees the importance of this work. He sees the importance of being an ally. And so I think that's equally as important as well. So being inclusive for everybody. Yeah. Hi, I'm Craig, the event manager for the Wellington Pride Parade. Uh, we're on Tenon Street. It's a little bit gray, but that's okay. And we are getting ready for the Pride Parade. Wow. Can you describe what we can see in front of us? Yeah, there's a, um, we've got the clip street closed and it's just a real hum of people. We've got the apartments behind us, we've got rainbow flags kind of out there, having glasses of wine and really creating the vibe. We've got trucks, we've got fire trucks, we've got, um, community groups all rocking up with rainbow flags and trans flags and every kind of flag you can imagine to really pump make this a really great day. What's it been like organizing the Pride parade this year? Stressful would be the word I'd go to first, but no, it's been fun. We've had a great team of volunteers, some amazing partners, um, who have gotten on board and really helped to resource it. It's cost about 180 grand to put on. Um, so it's taken a lot of money and there's been a great team of help to get that money, but some great partners who have gone. Yeah, man, we love Pride. We want to get on board. Yeah. So this parade has happened after Oh, is, is about to happen after the Auckland Pride Events and also the Christchurch Pride events. Um, and there has been some issues in terms of protests and that, but I, I have to say, I, I have loved, um, how you have partnered with Mana. And, and the messaging that's come out, uh, through that, can, can you talk through some of those things that you, that you've tried to, to, to make it a safe parade? Yeah. So firstly, one of the things that we heard from the community, we spent lots of time engaging with our community, and they told us that they really wanted to be a space where that was safe for all of our community, but particularly ua, um, and our aka Tapi people to be engaged. So that for us, meant that we needed to get UA at the table, at the decision table and leading from the front. So we have been really blessed to have Nate from us, from UA who has, um, who's just big, a big advocate for our community, part of the AKA Tapi community. Um, and he's been really kind of leading us. And I just remember feeling really stressed about this protest. What's, what could happen? And I said, Nate, I, I need you to help me. And he just said, yeah, absolutely. This is what we would do. And he talked about the cloak of peace that is over Tata. Um, and how we are if in a, in a time of protest, we had to remain peaceful. And then something he mentioned to me yesterday was around the, if we were to engage with the protesters, we essentially give them our mana. And he said, what we must do is not give them our mana. And so it was really important for me to hear that and think actually, yeah, I don't want to give them away the, the joy that I'm feeling about this event. So I'm not gonna let them have their way. Um, I suppose that's just one way we've kind of said actually, how do we bring Maori to the front of this event? The other way that we've, uh, or the other group that we've really listened to is our, uh, people with accessibility needs. They often are overlooked when it comes to large events like this. So we've invested probably about 50,000 into, um, putting in grandstands hiring, um, areas or making areas that, uh, allow them to have, um, low noise. Have, um, we've got a quiet space for them to go and find refuge. If, if it's just getting a little bit overwhelming. Um, we have a grandstand, which is my favorite thing of this, um, parade today. It's a huge big grandstand, uh, that people with that who can't stand for a long period of time or wheelchairs can go on and still be in the crowd, still have that crowd experience. But be at the same level, um, height-wise as the people. So they get an amazing view from up there. Um, we also have got, the Oaks Hotel are providing a low noise space so people with neurodiversity, um, needs can go there and simply relax and enjoy the parade. Can you, um, just name some of the groups that are participating in, in this year's parade? Yeah. I'll start with some of our amazing partners. So, uh, Woolworths, New Zealand. We've got Downer. We've got the airport, um, Wellington Airport. They've brought in one of their huge big fire trucks, which actually looks fantastic. Um, Wellington City Council will be here. We've also got trans power, the Dutch Embassy, the Irish Embassy, um, those are our Rainbow. Wellington is here. And then what we've got is. The, and so that's probably it in terms of corporates. And then from that we've got community groups. The rest of 'em are community groups. We've got ana, we've got Kahaka groups. As I said, we've got ua, uh, we've got the dancing groups. We've then actually done a lot of work this year to engage with sporting groups. So we have the, um, the Wellington Cricket, we've got Wellington Football, and we've got Wellington Rugby. They will all be here showing, uh, their pride and showing their their want to have inclusion and safe spaces for LGBT people. And look, here are some Grand Marshals. Oh yes. Our Queens of the year. Okay. Yes. Off to get some gossip. They go. So, so who are the Grand Marshals this year? Yeah, so this year we've, uh, looked at it across our community and thought, who do we want to lead our parade? And, um, Scotty and Mel who've been, uh. Pillars of this community are Wellington for a long time and have, uh, as I mentioned before, creating safe spaces. They have been doing that for so long, creating s and m's cocktail lounge. We've also got, um, Willie Macintosh. Um, a drag performer, um, in around here that we know has had come under a bit of turmoil this year, um, from some of those, uh, nasty groups that say, that have really protested, but they've risen up and they do it a fantastic job. And then, um, we always talk about the wedding, something old, something new. So our something old is lily loud mouth, um, who has been, uh, another pillar of our, of our drag community for a long time. So Lily will be there. Um, it's, it's very, it's a very rare treat to have Lily in drag. So this, we feel very privileged. So those are our grand marshals for today. Fantastic. So, um, we, we haven't had the parade yet, but I'm, I'm just wondering what has been the highlight of the Pride Parade Pride Festival this year for you so far, given that we're only two days in? Yeah. Uh, yesterday we spent, um, the morning at, um, Mount, um, Mount Victoria having a dawn service, and that was phenomenal. Just in a really nice way, a still way of stopping and reflecting on our day, uh, and getting set up for an amazing two weeks. So we're here at the Wellington Pride Parade, so we're here to celebrate and support our team, both from a diversity and inclusive, uh, collective as well. And, uh, everyone in our team is really important to us, so we are here to celebrate that. Yeah. And could you describe, um, uh, how big the team is and, and, and what you've got here today? Probably couldn't give you numbers, but I definitely can tell you that we've got, um, a really great group of passionate, um, team with a whole lot of lived experiences as well as those that, um. You know, just rallying with allyship and, um, wanting to support our team also with lived experiences. So that's who's rally today. So why was it important for Woolworths to be here today? I think it's really important. You know, we're a large employer, we're a large team, and, you know, we celebrate and accept diversity and inclusive in our business, and it's really important. We've got a really active role to play as a proud supporter of both the pride here, but also pride in Auckland as well, but across the entire country, you know. So, so within the, um, business itself, how is, um, diversity and inclusion, how, how does that play out within the, the business? So, um, yeah, I mean, we, like, like Wayne said, we're all about, um, diversity, equity, inclusion, and a lot of it is around our belonging. So if we think about our purpose and creating better experiences together for a better tomorrow, a lot of it is about, um, ensuring that our team feel belong. That they can bring their whole selves to work their authentic self. I'm also mindful that we've been partnering with Rainbow Tick now Topo for about six years now. And so over those six consecutive years we have, um, achieved the Rainbow tick, uh, and we continue to partner with them to improve, um, where we can. Year on year. Is this the, uh, first pride parade that you've been involved in? No. I, I can't. We've done it for a number of years. Uh, there was a small break during Covid, but it's great that we're back and we, we've been a part of this parade since, um, almost its inception, I suppose, from some degree. From a pride perspective. Yeah. Yeah. So can you describe the experience of actually being in a parade? Well, I can tell you that it's my first time. Uh, so I joined our Auckland team earlier in the month with the Auckland Pride Parade now here with the team down in Wellington. And it's, it's so much fun. I mean, there's music on, on, on the left of me and I'm just feeling all, all sorts of positive vibes and it's just a great way for our team to celebrate and recognize what Proud is all about Rainbow. I share exactly the same sentiment. It's a great atmosphere, you know, it doesn't just end after the parade. There's lots of, uh, parties happening as well, but you know, actually what the whole pride represents doesn't stop at the pride either. You know, everything we do from inclusive perspective and how we embrace and, um, buy into that, it's, yeah, it's a phenomenal night. It'll be awesome. Yeah. So if, if somebody couldn't be here today, in person, um, what would be some, uh, uh, encouraging words for somebody in the rainbow community do you think? I, I think that, you know, um, we're here to support those that are in the L-G-B-Q-T, um, community. You know, it's really important that they feel that they've got the respect and everything from our, from our people and our team. So, yeah, we, we truly embrace inclusivity and diversity. Yep. Yep. I'm, uh, Jean, Jean Malcolm. Oops. Um, I'm one of the priests at St. Peter's in Willow Street in Wellington. Um, and we are a, a, a proudly supportive congregation for people, whoever they happen to be. And so that includes people who identify as square. And, uh, we've got a bunch of our folks who are gonna be marching in the parade tonight, and they're, we'll probably dribble in at the last minute. But anyway, uh. And, uh, then we've got a service, not tomorrow, but next Sunday as part of the Pride Festival, um, at St. Peter's. Um, but right now it looks like slowly it's building, there's lots of color as you can hear. There's lots of sound. I'm sitting opposite a truck, which says, we are proud Woolworths. And you are, you are holding onto a very large pride progress flag. Yeah. Yes, yes. So this is the flag that one of the flags that we have in the church, I didn't bring the really big one. We have one that is so big it, it hangs over the whole, almost the whole width of the church. Um, which I happen to have made a long time ago now, but it was. Originally to hang from the tower, but it's never quite hung from there. But we use it in all sorts of other ways. It's really interesting too, 'cause it creates an opportunity for conversation. You know, people, we have a lot of people who come into St. Peter's for a whole lot of different reasons and, and, and they go, oh, tell me about the flag. So it means that we've got the, an automatic in for a conversation about inclusiveness and what it means to be people who celebrate what God has made, and that's us and all of our rainbow glory. And, and it's such a long history with, within St. Peter's. I mean, I, I, you know, we, we, we look back at, um, was at the river in Godfrey Wilson. That's right. 1967. Yeah. Yeah. Wow. Yeah, he was, um, yeah, he was quite crafty because he, he was, uh, a journalist and he regularly provided, uh, material for radio. Services and he sent them the script for his sermon, and it wasn't that script, it was a different one. So he then rocked out that sermon on that day and it went down in history. Yeah. Wow. And I, I, I mean, I may be wrong, but I, my, my understanding is that sermon, talking about homosexuality is probably the. First sermon in New Zealand to be broadcast around homosexuality probably is because at that stage, of course, homosexuality was still considered illegal. And, um, that was, yeah, at a time when sexuality wasn't really talked about in churches at all. Um, and so it was, yeah, part of the long history of St. Peter's of standing for what, um, provides space and safety and, uh, creativity and openness to all that the spirit has to tell us even if we don't like it or it makes us uncomfortable. Yeah. So it's keeping ourselves open to that and, and, um, something like the pride Parade gives us the opportunity to be open to a whole lot of things that, and a whole lot of people and ways of being who we are, um, and celebrating that it's great. Uh, Jean, you, you also have, um, a long history with coral things in Wellington, don't you? And particularly what now is the glam phones? Yes. Yes. So when I returned from Auckland, where I lived in Ponsonby for quite a long time, um, uh, some friends were looking at starting up a men gay men's chorus, and they asked if I might be interested in being the musical director. So we started off in, in someone's living room and we had just a small group and we did a little tiny Christmas concert. But then the following year we had a whole lot more men and we graduated to rehearsing at St. Mary the Angels Church. Um, and then, uh, we eventually, uh, decided we needed to be more than just. The men. And some of the men didn't like that so much 'cause that's what they, they wanted that particular style. But, um, yeah, so the glam phones were eventually born. They didn't have a name for a little while. We had the choir before the name came to us, but, uh, yeah. Wow. And now when you said, I mean, it is, it is such a polished choir, isn't it? Yeah. Yeah. And we had a lot of fun getting to where we got to when I then handed over to Rachel and she did a wonderful job with them too. And now I understand that they're kind of in the process of looking for a new director of music. So I hope that, that the number three ends up being better, if not as good as the two of us look. Um, could you just describe what we can see around us Because it's, it's the, the street is getting really packed, isn't it? Yeah. So we've got, um, all sorts of groups. Some of them have got big banners, some of them have just got the little ones that the organizers have supplied for them. And we've got everything from rainbow colored umbrellas to, um. People's clothes, the cardigan over there. There's also other kinds of flags as well as the, um, rainbow flag. There's, uh, an Irish flag over there and, um, there's a great sign over there with all sorts of, uh, pointing in directions like a street sign with lots of interesting things on it. And I'm really looking forward to, once the parade gets going, because then we'll see all of this in its glory. Absolutely. Absolutely. If somebody couldn't be here today and you wanted to give them words of encouragement, what, what would that be? I know that some people love to be out in the midst of it, in the thick of it. Um, and so this is a, if they ever have a chance and they didn't this time, um, try and, and come next year, but I know other people, um, would rather not be in the limelight. Um, but when we are celebrating tonight and when we are marching tonight, we are marching for you guys too. Um, for the, uh, the opportunity for us to be and celebrate who we are and not to have to defend who we are and simply allow us. To be us. Yeah. Hi Garrett. This is uh, yeah, art V first. I'm the Dutch Ambassador to New Zealand, and I'm super excited to be here in Wellington today with my embassy team to support the rainbow movement here in New Zealand because we have something to celebrate. You know, pride is not for free. You have to fight for it and to support it. So it's great to be here with all of you. Can you describe what we can see? Well, we see many variations of our community here in Wellington. I mean, we see of course, the medical teams, but we see also university teams. We see sporting. Teams. We see very young teams, old teams. I see a fire brigade, maybe it, it becomes too hot, they have to do something about it. But no, it's all looking exciting. And what I found so special about being an ambassador in Wellington from the Netherlands is that right in here in New Zealand, in Wellington, there's such a diverse group of the rainbow community and it's really lovely to connect to that. Why do you think pride of being so important? Well, I think, as I said, you know, pride, you know, is not for free. I mean, to being accepted, you know, being taken for granted, uh, move with the rest full is not something easy. The Netherlands have fought for a very long time for equality for marriage. You know, we won, we were one of the first ones, um, that really recognized the, uh, um, uh, equality for, uh, same sex marriages. And I think if you see what's happening around the world that we still have to fight, uh, for those that are still not included in moving forward, we are still vulnerable. We still still feel. That we are not all accepted. And also here in New Zealand, you see every day, uh, that the people that find maybe they feel themselves different or identify themselves different than others would do, still have to make a case why they want to be different than others. And for us, the Dutch is always important that, you know, we all stronger together and that means that we include all and we respect all. Is this your first Pride event? No, it's not my first, uh, uh, pride event. Um, I'm the Dutch ambassador, but I'm also a gay man. I'm here with my husband. So for me personally, it's always to see, uh, already for a long time that it has always been important not only to celebrate, but also to march and move forward. And also understand that the fight is not over. We need to have to fight the. Fight all the time. Can, can you remember your first event and, and what was that like? Oh, that was, that's a very long time ago, but I think that is, uh, about 35 years ago in the Netherlands. So I was 20 years old and I was really nervous to be out there as a gay man, young, um, still not completely comfortable with my identity. And then when I arrived at the, at the Pride Parade in Amsterdam, I found so many more that look like me, that acted like me, and I felt being part of a community. And that was great. And that really helped me to form my identity to become a stronger person. And look at now 35 years, I'm here as a Dutch ambassador, not only to New Zealand, but for, for the wider Pacific. We, as the embassies, support all sorts of projects in the Pacific to de decriminalize. Uh, anything that goes against the rainbow community, and I'm really proud that we can do that. It, it, it's very easy to forget how, um, scary it can be going to your first event because you just don't know, or just to be out can be quite scary, can't it? Yes. I, I think so. And, um, it's easy to say for the majority of the community to say what is, what is the issue, what's the problem? But if it was so, so easy, you know, then people probably wouldn't be so scared. Um, but no, no straight people in the world have to say that they are straight. But gay people have to say, no, I'm gay. And that's really different. If you feel that it is not accepted, uh, if people will just, uh, not respect you, you don't feel safe on the streets. You don't feel safe. Uh, to, to even admit the, to the one you love in, in high school and so on. So I really feel that's very important to show, uh, especially also from the older generation to show that you can be yourself, that you can feel protected, but also recognize that it still, it will still be difficult for the younger generation. It will never be easy. It's not an easy road. Yes. But it must make it easier when people see, uh, say for instance, yourself in positions of, of really high authority. Yeah. Well, I, I think it, it, we are, we are everywhere because we are part of, of the world. We are part of society. And I think it doesn't matter, um, where you are at or where your ambitious are, but I think. I was very comfortable, you know, by being supported by, by my surroundings. I was very comfortable because I was supported, um, by my family. I got the chances to study. I got the chances in my, in my job and the employment to get where I am right now. But, uh, it was still not very, an easy thing. And, um, um, you know, if I would've thought, okay, that would be an easy road to it, I would've taken that easy road. But it's never easy. If, um, a, a member of the rainbow community couldn't be here today, what kind of, um, words of encouragement could you give them? I would say that that is totally okay. I mean, uh, you know, you have to, everybody needs his time. Everybody has to find his path. But I think it's, it's always for everyone that listens, very important to understand that there are people like you out there that also sit alone, maybe at home or don't, don't dare to admit which part of the rainbow colors they are part of. And I think it's very important just to check. To see, to find those people. Uh, there are so all sorts of organizations. Also here in the, in Wellington, there's the fabulous organization called Inside Out, which I think is a great initiative. But there are also other organizations if you would be trans or you would be bi or, or you would be, uh, uh, uh, well, whatever you wanna be. I think it's great that there is something for everyone. So, and it is great to recognize that you are not alone and that you can step out and there are people there waiting for you to include you in where they are. I'm Jean Wilde. I am one of the co-chairs of the Cross-Agency Rainbow Network, which spans, um, all. Afraid by identifying people and allies across the public service. And we are here waiting to get going with the Wellington Pride parade and soaking in the atmosphere. It is a, um, a huge amount of people. Can you describe what you can see in front of you? Well, there's just a party atmosphere, really. Lots of people having fun, catching up, um, dancing, a bit of singing and a celebration, I'd say a sea of color, including a fire tender from the airport in St. John's. And yeah, it's just great. So why was it important to, to be here today? Well, Peter and I are here. We are the chief executive co-leads of Papamu, which is our, um, our diversity inclusion program for, um, public service ces. So we really just support the, the Rainbow Network and all the networks across, um, the public service to, yeah. Do anyone wanna come to this event and be part of it and also support all the other people who are here? Yeah. Like, this is a great event. We did this last year and it's a, it's a great way to show our support and solidarity with the Rainbow Network. Can you describe, um, the atmosphere today? Electric and, um, there's a real strong connection. So when community gets together that, um, that unity is really coming through. I'm walking up and down the street and people who I probably, vaguely know, but I can't quite remember, their names are coming up and there's hugs and. It's just one of love and togetherness. And this year, so, um, individual kind of public services aren't kind of marching individually, are they? They're they're all coming together. Like why is that? Well, I think it, it's part of the togetherness vibe really. Actually. We are all part of the public service. We, we've got across agencies, a whole lot of cross agency connections and we just, yeah, we wanna be together. And so it's like a caring sort of together atmosphere. So it's a, it's a really good vibe. Yeah. There are a few agencies that do have their own entries. Um, for example, fence. So Fire, emergency New Zealand. They always do, but they've always got their own and that's okay. 'cause they've got the cool the trucks. They've got the cool trucks. We don't have trucks, trucks, but we've got, um, we've got connections can exist to serve across the whole public service regardless of which agency you serve through what? What binds us is our role as public servants. So to be able to have this opportunity to meet, we've got people who've come from around the country, um, to be here and have this togetherness. So, so where did, where did Kahan come from? Uh, it was formed back in 2017, um, which was before I was even out. Um, and it was a small group of public servants who realized, well, we don't have a meeting place. We don't have a connection point for us. And there's a lot of work happening, but it was happening in silos and, um, we're all about effectiveness and efficiency. And so we joined together and, um. Really, it started as a place to share resources and from there it's become a place of friendship and connection, sharing struggles, but also successes. And, um, Khan as an organization does a lot of support for different agencies with their own pride networks, helping them stand up and navigating any challenges. And so why is it important to, to be here today? Look, more than anything else, this is a celebration of pride. It's a celebration of rainbow. And, uh, I think it's really important that we're able to, to collectively, uh, share that. I think it's a great thing. Yeah. And I, it's really important when, when at times like this, when we can be together and we're organizing to be together to just take that opportunity to celebrate. There's a really happy and caring feeling in the ear, and we all need that now more than ever. Oh, Kiara. Um, we are here with Inside Out. We are, um, returning to the Pride Parade after a few years off, um, with a float celebrating pride in schools. So we've got some of the local, uh, rainbow Diversity or Queer Strait Alliance groups marching with us. Um, we are just gathering, um, on Tennison Street before the parade kicks off at the moment, just at our meeting point, um, we've got the, uh, rainbow Corp, uh, with PPTA and so on in front of us. We've got, um, youth line behind us. Uh, ooh. There's a Rescue Wellington Airport truck. I've just seen, um, Massey University. Lots of rainbow flags, trans pride flags, uh, some good queer tunes pumping, and people I think excited, ready to. Yeah, ready to go. Lots of familiar faces and new faces too. Can you describe, um, what the feeling is like? I mean, it seems quite electric today. Yeah, it feels really positive even though, you know, well the weather's not, you know, woke up. It's like, ah, it's a bit cloudy, kind of wondering if it'll rain on us. Um, but I heard someone say, well then if there was a rainbow, wouldn't that be cool? Um, I don't know if that's gonna happen 'cause there's really no sun. But the feeling around, yeah, it feels really positive, which is awesome, especially because it has been quite a, uh, yeah, difficult time for our communities after Destiny Church turning up at Auckland Pride. So there's definitely been a bit of, um, caution and fear if something similar will happen here. But I think, um, people know that yeah, there's way, way more, many way many. More of us. Um, and people are excited. I've talked to quite a few people in our group. It's their first time being part of anything to do with pride or the, or the Pride Parade, and people are feeling really excited. I, I, I love how the organizers of the parade have really, um, uh, coordinated with Mana. And in terms of the, the messaging about, I mean, if there are protests, how to react to that, eh? Yeah. Awesome. Just the idea of, yeah, not engaging, just putting love out there, singing and, you know, we would drown out any, any hate that tried to, to come upon us. I think. Why was it important for, um, inside out to, to be at the Pride Parade? Because I mean, as, as you say, you haven't been here for a number of years, um, but, but you've, uh, been, um, hugely involved in the Pride Heco. So, so, so what, what, what's the change? Yeah, so this, um, yeah, obviously the Wellington Pride parade's gone through a few different iterations. Um, and um, this year they actually brought us on to consult with them to help improve their policies, to make it, um, more inclusive and really respond to and consult with community and respond to some of the concerns about particular groups, um, marching and try and bring back that community feel to the parades that can be that time of really focused on celebration a little bit different to the, where it might be more, more of a protest. But, um, uh, yeah, just that opportunity to let community groups rather than kind of corporations or political parties, um. Police, so on for, for them to kind of, um, be in our parade when they've still got a long way, way to go. So after doing that process and, uh, seeing the changes they made, we were really excited to, um, come back in and provide that visibility, particularly for young people as a place that, um, they could come to and march with us. We, we've been to a, a, a number of, uh, pride event events, uh, together over, over the years. What, what, what is, what, what are the high points for you when you, when you come to Pride events? What, what, what, what kind of really gets you going? Oh, um, definitely it's always seeing the, yeah, seeing our young people have those experiences and you know, particularly if they've come from, you know, homes that aren't supportive or they've just never had that opportunity to be around so many other people like them who support them. Especially in the world right now where it's. Yeah, quite a difficult time that that is really hard to get away from on the news, social media and so on. So just seeing them, yeah, celebrate that pride in who they are and know that there's so much support out there for them is really exciting for me. And, uh, last night as well, attending the, um, opening gala was really beautiful. And just seeing, uh, again, just really the center on local community artists and performers, um, centering Takatapui was really Yeah, just gorgeous to see all of, um, those people brought together and just celebrate as well the amazing talent in our community. So that was a really kind of, was a sort of like, oh yeah, it's pride let's, it's time to get excited and, you know, just try and quieten the, or the bigotry for a little bit. It's our, our time to shine. Absolutely. If, if there were, um, people that weren't here today in the rainbow community, um, what kind of words of encouragement would, would you give them? Yeah, it doesn't matter if you're, you are here or not, you're still, you know, a part of our communities, um, for many attending an event like this is, you know, very way too overstimulating or not, um, not where you want to be or you might not yet have that community around you. Um, but I'd say there's lots, lots of different groups and opportunities to get involved. Um, and just so many people that do care and want you to live your best life, being yourself and yeah, be, be free. Uh, Kilda. My name is T Chapman and I'm the chair of intersex. Um, and we are privileged to be at the front of the queue today, which is never usually what happens, we often get forgotten about, but I can see just an eclectic bunch of awesome, dedicated, passionate, fabulous people getting ready to celebrate their identity and your float today. Can you tell me a wee bit about that? Yes. Well, as you can see, it's the colors of intersex, which are purple and yellow. Some have actually mistaken it for big fat chocolate, so that might be coming after the night. But we've just gone for the creative bright look because the bright colors are actually what represent our community. The intersex colors represent identity and they represent our genetics as people, so. It was introduced, the colors and the intersex pin was introduced by Morgan Carpenter in Australia who runs Intox. So yeah, it's just a whole lot of fabulous color and greenery. And what is it like you, you, you are, you are almost right at the front of the parade here. Um, it's, I got a feeling it's gonna get quite eclectic and quite noisy and quite happy, and I think that's probably the best thing that we're looking for right now is, you know, just to celebrate and be happy and forget about all the rubbish that's going on out in the, in the world at the moment. Why is it important for Intersex RA to be here? Yeah, look, we are a very, we're a very, um, marginalized community within, already a marginalized community itself. Um, it's important for us to be here because with the intersex Copa, we sit, we don't sit in the typical normal binary or the gender constructs of society or that have been placed on us. So we have a really unique position within the rainbow community. Whilst we don't technically fit within the rainbow community, we've been embraced and welcomed by the rainbow community. So we're very fortunate to be here. Is this your first Pride event? It absolutely is not. Uh, this is probably my 21st pride event around the country. Um, I have been a part of the community for a very long time, uh, especially when before the word intersex came in, actually. Um, you know, people like myself were classes hermaphrodites. Um, and then we had all of the, the differences of innate characteristics and what it means in terms of binary and identity. So, uh, I'm not new to this community. Yeah. What, what's the kind of overall feeling you get from pride events and like, why, why are they important? I think the one word says it all pride. Just pride and resolute in who we are as people. Uh, and you know, just accept us for who we are. Embrace us for who we are and love us all the same. If somebody couldn't be here today, um, what kind of words of encouragement would you, would you give that person? I. I look each to their own. I say, uh, and those that couldn't be here today. I encourage people to get down to your next parade. Check out your local community, uh, events that might be happening. Uh, your councils will definitely have a list of events that are happening around, uh, the town or where, wherever they reside, uh, made mainly the big cities have big pride, pride festivals. As you can hear, lots of noise going on in the background. Have big pride festivals and those are really good to get to as well. So it is pride month for both us in Welling, uh, in Christchurch. And so there's lots and lots of, uh, Copa going on around the country. Hey, ish. What's the, uh, what's the braid like? It's looking great. Great crowd, lovely people, nice atmosphere, and not too hot. Can't really beat it. Can you describe the crowd? Oh my God. This, all the colors of a rainbow are here. There's a wonderful all cross section of a community, age groups, all sorts of people. So, yeah, it's just great to have people who are so excited to, uh, to see a little bit of gay on the streets. And who are you marching with today? We were marching with different strokes. Wellington and Tams are here. We had a swimming competition today in Kari, and then we, um, we came down for the parade. So we are still on our Speedos. I haven't even got changed. I think that's why there's all the, the, the whoops, the whoops, whoops. Whoop. Yeah. It has been a few. Whoops. Just to keep it a bit of fun, you know. Can you describe, um, the size of the crowd, the size of a crowd down this thing? Court was Courtney placed all the way to Cuba Street. It's basically a standing room to, you can still walk past on the sides, but it's a lovely, uh, you know, five deep as you look at this, the crowd. So, yeah, it's lovely. What kind of feeling? Well, it's just buoyant. It's just buoyant. People are lovely. And the feeling I would say is celebratory and, um, lots of love, lots of blowing kisses and smiles and all that kind of thing. So it's lovely. Kilda. I'm Shannon Halbert, uh, labor Party spokesperson for rainbow issues. Uh, we're here on Courtney play celebrating pride in the great city of Tata. And who are you marching today with? Uh, today I am with and supporting ita. It's a Kopa. That's really important. I want to put my support behind it and demonstrate to Wellington, uh, that I've got their back. Can you describe what you can see around us? Uh, well, today's been filled with celebration. We've had a lot of some people enjoying, enjoying themselves, solidarity, and of all. Tonight, we're here to celebrate. What's the, uh, what's the feeling like? Uh, the vibe is really warm. It's energetic. Down here at Courtney Place tonight. Uh, people are out celebrating, uh, supporting one another. Uh, whether you're an ally, whether you're from the rainbow community, everyone's turned out in Wellington tonight. If somebody couldn't be here tonight, uh, what would be the words of encouragement you'd have for them? Share your solidarity online with us. Tonight's a celebration. The rainbow community has done it tough recently with attacks from Destiny Church, uh, tonight's a chance for us to come together in solidarity, celebrate who we are, and most of all, paved the way for future generations. Hello. So Andrew, can you tell me what the atmosphere is like? The atmosphere is a hundred percent rainbow, pure Wellington, it's awesome atmosphere. It's a very beautiful atmosphere today. Colorful, beautiful. Everyone is in love with everybody. Today, who are you marching with? We are marching with glamour phones. Can you describe what you can see? Many people on the sidelines enjoying the Saturday pride. On phone singing. We have massive, um, university behind me, all the young ones, which is so proud and so nice to see. All the young ones coming out, everyone dressing up, enjoying Saturday Happy Pride. What's your favorite song you're singing? This Is Me. It is one hard song to sing, so we are singing it with the chorus, and I believe this song is a perfect song for today and every other pride day we have with everyone. This song brings out all our young generations no matter what. The intersex is the song shows them that this is me. I can be who I want to be, and it's bringing me out, out my shell. Happy pride, Wellington, look out. Here I come and I'm marching on to the drum. I love Scared to be Seat. I Make no apologies. I'm Sean Cornell Torrington, and we're in the middle of the Pride Parade. Can you describe what you can see? Oh, I can see beautiful young people doing synchronized dancing, which is amazing. Um, I can see many, many, many beautiful flags ahead of us. And my favorite interviewer, Gareth Watkins, next to me. Oh, and who are you here today with? Oh, I'm here today with. Quilted bananas. So we are the reincarnation, reon, continuation recontextualization of lesbian radio. Been on the air for 30, 40 years on Sunday mornings at 10 o'clock. Wow. So we've been to a number of pride events together. Um, can you describe this one and compare it to other ones you've been to? Well, the thing that's most striking to me is how much support there is here. There's a huge number of people on either side of the street who are here to support the Pride parade, and that feels really, really amazing. What, what, what kind of feeling do you have? Oh, I think it is, um, yeah, I feel proud and I feel, I feel really looked after the Maori wardens are here. Um, and yeah, people, everyone's smiling and looking at us and being super friendly, so I feel protected. Uh, Kura, I'm Glen Bennett. I'm a labelist. Mp, uh, based in tki, but I'm here in the middle of Courtney Place of Wellington for Wellington Pride. Can you describe the feeling? Uh, it's just electric. It's just to see the diversity, to see young, old whanau even, we've even got four-legged friends in the parade. It's just, yeah, it's life. It's, it's what our community is all about. Right. How, how big is the crowd? It seems quite large this year here. Oh, there's thousands upon thousands. Like, we're, we're obviously going. This is the slowest pride. Pride I've ever been in. It's like we're at a dole only because there's so many of us. Can you describe what's in front of us? Uh, we've got Indian Origin Pride in front of us. We've got fabulous, uh, umbrellas and paint and color and behind us we've got the crazy amazing gay sword brigade. They're just doing, doing their thing. It's really cool. And, and so who are you marching with today? Um, well actually it's, it's a nonpolitical um, parade. So we've got some of our labor whanau here, but we're just supporting the parade and supporting trans rights. 'cause trans rights are human rights. And so why is it important to have such, such events as this? It's about visibility and, uh, the way the world is going at the moment and what we see in our politics, what we see around the world. We have to fight for inclusion, fight for the, the, you know, 40 years this year since the introduction of homosexual law reform, but we still gotta fight. So this is about celebration, bringing our community together and letting the rest of the world see that we are here, we are queer and we're fabulous. Now we're just coming up to the intersection of, uh, Taranaki and Mana Street. Um, there seem to be hundreds, if not thousands of people here. I'd say there's thousands. I'd say there's, you know, I'm not a, I'm not a great crowd number person, but at least four or 5,000 people, right. This is, this is big. Wow. Can you describe this parade, um, um, in relation to other parades you've been to? I think this Wellington Pride parade is, is about community and family. Like, it's, it's not a big corporate event. You know, some of them you go to and you just see all the big banks and mucks and everyone. But here it is just seeing kids and families actually out celebrating and feeling loved. Like I think seeing, um, gay, gay families with their little kids, marching the prey just makes, gives me hope. 'cause you know, I wish I had that when as a kid I never did. So it's, it's so important. Yeah. So which was the, uh, what was the first pride event you went to? Um, the first, well, I sort of, I thought I'd start quite big. So I went to, went to Mardi Gras in, in Sydney years ago, and that was my first, um, first and only. But it's, yeah, I mean, this is, I was in, oh, I was in, I went to Christchurch Pride, pride last week. I was in Auckland the week before and here this week. It is just so important for us to, and for me, coming from Taranaki in the regions, we have our, we have a little, we humble one week of pride in April, but it's so important, you know, that we've gotta see ourselves to know that we actually exist, we're here, we're powerful, we're wonderful. Uh, and, and the world needs to be reminded that, uh, love is love. Yeah. If somebody couldn't be here today, uh, what kind of words of encouragement would you give them? Uh, I would say to anyone who can't be here, or maybe someone who chose not to come 'cause they're maybe afraid that, um, there is inclusion. And for what you see in the media, there actually is look at this clapping and, and the love that's here. Right? It's come along. Feel the love, feel included. That's so powerful. That is huge. It's massive. Yeah. It really is. Hey, well Phil, Phil, I mean, uh, we're looking at the parade. Go pass now. Um, can you describe it to me? Yeah, that's there now. Now we got Eden, got Wellington Cricket here, the Wellington Cricket people. Um, they're coming along. Do, do you think this is, do you think this is the biggest, um, pride parade we've seen in Wellington? It is. Is, it certainly is. Um, it's still going. I mean, I normally would've. Finished by now and it rains of time and I'm most impressed with that. Um, they had a little scrabble down there over the, um, destiny Boys tried to do something and they get down down there and they got shut, shunted out. They did a haku and that was it. Thank God. Um, now we got these ones here. Uh, uh, the hello, um, people. We lovely. All they were half you orange. What? The iron here and its pea and the orange part of rainbow, that's what we call it. And you can hear them shouting away and that's it going off and the bes going on and so it's still going. And I think we've got a big dance troop coming up now. Yeah. Yes we have. Um, big one. Um, yes, certainly a dance group and they're looking pretty fit. Then there's Wellington Rugby here. We have Wellington Rugby and a black and a little bit of yellow in there. Um. From the sports department, tell me how they tee these things all together and make, you know, each category quite okay. And we're still, we're still, we're looking, still looking right down to the end of, uh, Courtney Place. And the final ones will be the fire engines. And we cannot see them in cycle yet. Could you imagine this, say 20 years ago? Um, no. Um, but we did, we did have certain things, uh, when we, uh, got the homosexual law reform, we had a few, uh, things, they're more, more quicker. And then we got opened up a bit more. New Zealand, New Zealand opened up a little bit more. Some people didn't know what to think of it, but. If you, you're gonna go, oh, now, oh, here we got Vinegar Hill coming along. We've got the king of, uh, vinegar Hill. And the poor bugger is having trouble walking. He said he didn't know if you walked the whole thing. That's where Vinegar Hill, where they, all the big shows go on in, um, hill. Um, so Christmas in New Year, and they're very famous now. Up in, there's some people there that waved me before. Oh, here, here come the chiefest. Nafa, uh, great performance group. Oh, that they, oh, it's quite difficult to be in daylight, to be tough, particularly on a sunny day, your makeup starts to run. I mean, I know that, uh, but no, today the weathers is right. It's not too cold. So, Phil, how would you, how would you sum up the atmosphere today? Everyone. You could hear all the cheering. Everyone's just cheering. They clapping, you know, it's, it's to go back. It's just, it's nonstop, absolute, nonstop. Well, thank you, Phil. Um, much appreciated. Well, I think you better get another one, because I'm running out of voice. I mean, and you need another one, because there's a whole row still to come. Thank you. Happy pride. The full transcription of the recording ends. A list of keywords/tags describing the recording follow. These tags contain the correct spellings of names and places which may have been incorrectly spelt earlier in the document. The tags are seperated by a semi-colon: 2020s ; Alex Geenty ; Amsterdam ; Anna Simpson ; Aotearoa New Zealand ; Ard van der Vorst ; Arrun Soma ; Auckland ; Auckland Pride Festival ; Australia ; Baron Hasselhoff (Wellington) ; Brian Tamaki ; COVID-19 (coronavirus) ; Christchurch ; Craig Watson ; Cricket Wellington ; Cross Agency Rainbow Network (CARN) ; Destiny Church ; Different Strokes Wellington (DSW) ; Donald Trump ; Downer Group NZ ; Downtown Community Ministry (DCM) ; Dykes on Bikes ; Emily Bathgate ; Gaye Searancke ; Gaza ; Glen Bennett ; Godfrey Wilson ; Good Bitches Bakers ; Halcy Thomas ; Hamish Allardice ; Hineni (Wellington) ; Homophones (Wellington) ; Hugo Grrrl ; Indian Origin Pride New Zealand ; InsideOUT Kōaro ; Intersex Trust Aotearoa New Zealand (ITANZ) ; Intersex flag ; Isle of Man ; Israel ; Jen Wilde ; Jewish community ; Jo Maxwell ; Judaism ; Kāhui Irarau (Massey University) ; Lilly Loudmouth ; Malcolm Kennedy-Vaughan ; Morgan Carpenter ; Mount Victoria ; Nate Rowe ; Netherlands ; Palestine ; Papa Pounamu Public Service ; Peter Mersi ; Phil Rogers ; QUILTED BANANAS (Wellington Access Radio) ; Queer at Council (WCC) ; Quinn Cassidy ; Rachael Archer ; Rachel Hyde ; Rainbow Tick ; Rainbow Wellington ; Rev. 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The original recording can be heard at this website https://www.pridenz.com/wellington_pride_parade_2025.html. Please note that this document may contain errors or omissions - you should always refer back to the original recording to confirm content.