Photo credit: Cuetone Media
More than 700 players representing 12 countries and territories came together in Auckland for Rainbow Games 2026, bringing four days of international competition, celebration and community connection to Tāmaki Makaurau.
The Games, held from 29 October to 1 November, saw 703 players take part, including 398 individually registered participants and competitors from more than 30 sports teams, supported by an incredible team of over 100 volunteers.
Athletes travelled from across the Pacific and beyond, representing New Zealand, Australia, American Samoa, Guam, Samoa, Tonga, South Africa, Germany, the United States, England, Canada and Mexico.
The Games also celebrated gender diversity in sport, with registration data showing at least 65 players identifying as transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, genderfluid or fa'afafine. Their participation highlighted the importance of creating sporting environments where people of all gender identities can compete, connect and feel welcome.
Returning after its inaugural event in 2024, the Rainbow Games brought together LGBTQ+ athletes and allies of all abilities, from experienced competitors chasing medals to people discovering a new sport and community for the first time.
And while medals were won across the weekend, some of the Games' biggest successes happened away from the podium.
Auckland couple Ben and Reuben had double reason to celebrate, taking home gold and silver medals respectively in the swimming competition.
University of Auckland student Jah fell in love with kickball at the Games and is now establishing a university kickball league.
American traveller Brady had only been in New Zealand for two weeks when he signed up for kickball and found himself part of a new community. His enthusiasm and commitment to the Games' inclusive spirit earned him a special award for "living our full values on and off the field".
Photo credit: Cuetone Media
These stories reflect the wider purpose of the Rainbow Games: creating opportunities for LGBTQ+ people to participate in sport, build confidence and form meaningful connections in an environment where everyone is welcome.
“This weekend, we’ve seen people of all genders, backgrounds and sporting abilities come together and feel genuinely welcome. We’ve seen couples win medals alongside each other, complete strangers become friends and people discover sports they now want to introduce to their own communities. With more than 700 players, including a wonderful diversity of gender identities, Rainbow Games 2026 has shown what sport can look like when everyone feels safe, included and free to play at full volume. That’s what these Games are really about!” says Rainbow Games Chair Tux Hika.
The Games began with a spectacular Opening Ceremony at Auckland's Aotea Centre, where Councillor Richard Hills officially opened the event, before sporting competitions took place at venues throughout Auckland.
The four-day celebration concluded on Sunday 1 November, with athletes, volunteers and supporters coming together to celebrate their achievements and the friendships formed.
Taking place in the year marking 40 years since Homosexual Law Reform in New Zealand, Rainbow Games 2026 offered a reminder of the importance of LGBTQ+ visibility, inclusion and belonging in sport.
Photo credit: Cuetone Media
