The Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2026 Opening Ceremony will be a spectacular celebration of community, culture and the extraordinary creativity of Aotearoa’s rainbow communities.
Taking place at the iconic Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, this unforgettable evening will officially launch the 2026 Rainbow Games, bringing together athletes, participants, supporters and our wider rainbow whānau for one incredible night.
Produced by DJ and rainbow-entertainment maestro Jordan Eskra, the Opening Ceremony will showcase an exciting line-up of some of New Zealand’s most celebrated queer artists and performers. Confirmed acts include dance music icon Ardon England, RuPaul’s Drag Race legend Anita Wigl’it, and acclaimed performer Ramon Te Wake, with many more exciting names still to be announced. The evening will be hosted by one of New Zealand’s biggest personalities, the incomparable Luke Bird.
Expect spectacular performances, electrifying dance, powerful moments of celebration and the ultimate showcase of New Zealand queer artistry. From emerging voices to established icons, the evening will celebrate the talent, diversity and creativity that makes Aotearoa’s rainbow communities so extraordinary.
The Rainbow Games Opening Ceremony promises to be more than simply the beginning of an incredible week of sport — it will be a bold, joyful and unforgettable celebration of who we are, where we have come from and the vibrant future we are creating together.
This is where the Rainbow Games begin.
For more information, click here.
Proudly part of the Auckland Council whānau
Local tip
He tīwhiri mō te rohe
Arrive early and explore the Aotea Arts Quarter. The Civic, Auckland Town Hall, Q Theatre and plenty of dining options are all within a short walk.
Getting there
Te huarahi ki reira
Aotea Centre is in Aotea Square on Queen Street, in the heart of the city centre. Te Waihorotiu Station is nearby, with frequent bus services along Queen Street and surrounding streets. If driving, The Civic Car Park is the closest option. For more transport information, check out our Getting Around page.
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