This year’s Auckland Pride officially closed on Saturday after a month of events, big and small, across Tāmaki Makaurau, celebrating the city’s Tākatāpui and Rainbow communities.

The kaupapa of the 2025 event – art as activism and creating spaces for queer people to “express their identities, demand their rights, and build stronger connections” – felt especially relevant following violent protests from groups not worth naming here.

The festival wrapped up with the Waimahara closing event in Myers Park – an activation and public art installation by Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Manu) that encouraged people to gather and connect. Throughout the afternoon, there were panel discussions on pride and protest, performances by Spdrtwnbby and Nganeko plus a Waiora Hub.

Fashion and self-expression through clothing have always been integral to the rainbow community, and that was on full display at Waimahara. Photographer Abigail De'llavo was there to capture the style and identity (and signs) on the streets.

You can donate to support Auckland Pride’s kaupapa here