The first All Black to publicly come out as gay is putting together a kickball team with his husband and friends. Join their team before Rainbow Games registrations close this Friday night, 16 October.
Campbell Johnstone is swapping rugby for kickball, and his new team has a name Britney fans will appreciate: Kick Me Baby One More Time.
The former All Black and Rainbow Games ambassador will join his husband and friends on the kickball court when the Games bring rainbow communities and allies together in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland from 29 October to 1 November.
With registrations closing this Friday, organisers are encouraging anyone curious about kickball to sign up, including people who have never played before.
Think baseball, with a ball you kick instead of hit with a bat. Players kick, run between bases and work together to score, making it an accessible option for anyone keen to try a team sport.
Kickball takes place at Hiwa, Recreation Centre - University of Auckland, with Saturday’s sessions giving participants the chance to learn the game before Sunday’s tournament. Different grades cater for newcomers through to more experienced players.
There is also room for a little theatrical flair. Costumes and themed awards are part of the kickball culture, bringing extra personality to a weekend built around participation and community.
The Rainbow Games welcome LGBTQ+ participants and allies, giving people the opportunity to compete, try something new and enjoy sport in an inclusive environment.
Sports registrations close on Friday, 16 October.
The Games begin with the Opening Ceremony at Auckland’s Aotea Centre on Thursday, 29 October.
Register for kickball: https://www.rainbowgames.co.nz/participate/sports/sports-1
Rainbow Games 2026: What You Need to Know
When and where: Thursday 29 October to Sunday 1 November 2026, across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.
What: Four days of sport, culture and community, welcoming LGBTQIA+ people and allies from across New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific.
Who can participate: People aged 18 and over, from beginners and social players to competitive athletes.
Sports on offer: Football, netball, swimming, tennis, badminton, basketball and more, alongside yoga and Zumba.
Opening night: The all-ages Opening Ceremony takes place at 7pm on Thursday 29 October, at Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre, Auckland.
The entertainment: Hosted by Luke Bird, with performances from Anita Wigl’it, Ardon England and Ramon Te Wake.
Everyone’s invited: Opening night is open to the public, with entry included for registered Rainbow Games athletes.
Book opening-night tickets: https://www.moshtix.co.nz/v2/event/rainbow-games-opening-ceremony/200130
Explore the Games and register: https://www.rainbowgames.co.nz/
