
What
Rainbow games is a fully inclusive multi-sport tournament for LGBTQI+ and allies

where
The Trusts Arena (and surrounding venues), Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand

When
Opening Ceremony: 4 April 2024
Sports: 5-8 April 2024
Rainbow games is a fully inclusive multi-sport tournament for LGBTQI+ and allies
The Trusts Arena (and surrounding venues), Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand
Opening Ceremony: 4 April 2024
Sports: 5-8 April 2024
The Rainbow Games will follow a year of worldwide queer sporting events. Use these events as a training ground and get yourself to Aotearoa New Zealand in early 2024.
The Rainbow Games 2024 is a multi-sports event taking place in premier venues, celebrating diversity in sexual orientation, sex characteristics and gender identity.
Our main goal is to provide a safe space for everyone to come together and play sports.
Get ready to experience a celebration of diversity, hauora and athleticism like no other! The Rainbow Games 2024 is a multi-sports event celebrating diversity in sexual orientation, sex characteristics and gender identity. Our main goal is to provide a safe space for everyone to come together and play sports.
The Rainbow Games will follow a year of worldwide queer sporting events, Use these events as a training ground and get yourself to Aotearoa New Zealand in early 2024.
With 14 different sports to choose from, including rugby 7s, netball, badminton, swimming and more, the Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024 is perfect for anyone who loves getting active or simply wants to get involved in a fun and friendly event.
For seasoned athletes or complete beginners (aged 18 and above), each sport offers different grades and classifications to ensure everyone has a meaningful experience playing a diverse range of participants from across the Pacific, and beyond. Other sports include: 5k/10k fun run, basketball 3×3, football 5-a-side, lawn bowls (Bowls3Five), roller derby, softball, tennis, ten-pin bowling, touch and volleyball 4s.
Yes, volunteers are an essential part of the Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024, and the event organizers welcome volunteer support. The volunteer application portal will open later in 2023. Currently, you can pre-register your interest as a volunteer here. More information will be available on this page over the coming months.
Transport discount options are available to participants as part of their registration - more information on this will be available soon. Nonetheless, participants are encouraged to take public transport to attend their sporting events. You can find out how to get to each sporting venue here. Participants are encouraged to plan their transport in advance, aligned with the schedules they receive ahead of the event.
Find out more about Auckland's public transport at Auckland Transport (at.govt.nz)
It is the players, teams and supporters' responsibility to find out the entry requirements to New Zealand. You may require a visa to enter New Zealand to take part in the Rainbow Games 2024. Here are some helpful links to help you find out infomration on visas to enter New Zealand:
Visa and entry requirements to New Zealand | 100% Pure New Zealand (newzealand.com)
Check if you need a visitor visa or an NZeTA | New Zealand Government (www.govt.nz)
Participants are advised to bring appropriate sports gear and equipment, including sports shoes, sports clothing, and any equipment specific to their chosen sport (e.g. badminton and tennis players will need to bring their own rackets). Participants should also bring sunscreen (particularly if playing outside), a water bottle, and any personal items they may require.
Yes. We are working on exclusive deals for our preferred and rainbow-friendly accommodations which will be available on our website soon, catering for a variety of budgets. It is the participants responsibility to source their accommodation, and participants are encouraged to book their accommodation in advance.
Auckland has a number of eco-tourism opportunities, such as visiting Tiritiri Matangi Island bird sanctuary, exploring the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, or taking a guided tour of the Auckland Domain. Find out more at Discover Auckland - Travel, Tourism & Events | AucklandNZ.com
Auckland has many shopping options, including boutique stores, high-end fashion brands, and local markets such as the Auckland Fish Market and the Otara Market.
Find out more at Explore Auckland - The Best Things To Do & See | AucklandNZ.com
Auckland has a thriving LGBT community, with a number of LGBT-friendly bars, clubs, and events throughout the city. Karangahape Road is the heart of Auckland LGBTQI+ community and you can find out more about the events, venues and things to do at karangahaperoad.com
Auckland has many cultural attractions, such as the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, the Māori cultural experience at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and the Pasifika Festival celebrating Pacific Island culture. Find out more at Discover Auckland - Travel, Tourism & Events | AucklandNZ.com
There are many day trip options from Auckland, such as visiting the Hobbiton movie set, exploring the Waitakere Ranges and Piha Beach, or taking a trip to the Coromandel Peninsula. Find out more at Discover Auckland - Travel, Tourism & Events | AucklandNZ.com
Auckland has a diverse and vibrant food scene, with a wide range of international cuisines and local specialties such as seafood and Māori-inspired dishes. Here are some helpful links to help you find some of the best food and drink spots:
Explore Auckland - The Best Things To Do & See | AucklandNZ.com
Auckland has many outdoor activities to offer, such as hiking, kayaking, surfing, beachcombing, sailing, and fishing, among others. Find out more at Explore Auckland - The Best Things To Do & See | AucklandNZ.com
Auckland has a number of top tourist attractions, including the Sky Tower, Auckland Harbour Bridge, Waiheke Island, Auckland War Memorial Museum, and Auckland Zoo, among others. Find out more at Discover Auckland - Travel, Tourism & Events | AucklandNZ.com
Yes, volunteers are an essential part of the Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024, and the event organizers welcome volunteer support. The volunteer application portal will open later in 2023. Currently, you can pre-register your interest as a volunteer here. More information will be available on this page over the coming months.
Transport discount options are available to participants as part of their registration - more information on this will be available soon. Nonetheless, participants are encouraged to take public transport to attend their sporting events. You can find out how to get to each sporting venue here. Participants are encouraged to plan their transport in advance, aligned with the schedules they receive ahead of the event.
Find out more about Auckland's public transport at Auckland Transport (at.govt.nz)
It is the players, teams and supporters' responsibility to find out the entry requirements to New Zealand. You may require a visa to enter New Zealand to take part in the Rainbow Games 2024. Here are some helpful links to help you find out infomration on visas to enter New Zealand:
Visa and entry requirements to New Zealand | 100% Pure New Zealand (newzealand.com)
Check if you need a visitor visa or an NZeTA | New Zealand Government (www.govt.nz)
Participants are advised to bring appropriate sports gear and equipment, including sports shoes, sports clothing, and any equipment specific to their chosen sport (e.g. badminton and tennis players will need to bring their own rackets). Participants should also bring sunscreen (particularly if playing outside), a water bottle, and any personal items they may require.
Yes. We are working on exclusive deals for our preferred and rainbow-friendly accommodations which will be available on our website soon, catering for a variety of budgets. It is the participants responsibility to source their accommodation, and participants are encouraged to book their accommodation in advance.
It is the participants/spectator's responsibility to organise their own travel and personal insurances to cover property and possible damages to themself or a third party for the whole period of Rainbow Games 2024.
Yes, participants need to follow the rules and regulations set by the event organizers, including rules related to sportsmanship, fair play, and safety. This is covered in the gender policy, health and wellbeing policy and player code of conduct which is agreed in the registration phase. You can view all of these in our website footer too. Participants also need to follow any rules and regulations specific to their chosen sport which will be available on the respective sport's webpage closer to Games' time.
Yes, there are competitive and social grades available to enable everyone to get the best possible experience. Please view each sport-specific webpage to view details on the grades/divisions relevant to the sport.
No, participants will not be asked to prove their gender. During the registration process, a participant may be asked to indicate their preferred gender of participation i.e., the gender category they feel most comfortable with when participating at the Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau to assist with the tournament scheduling, however they will not need to prove the selected gender or identity. The organisers specifically note that certain sports will be dealt with in accordance with their own sporting codes’ policies regarding gender participation, for example rugby. More information can be found in our Gender Policy.
It is possible to participate in more than one sport, but this is subject to scheduling constraints. It is the players responsibility to ensure they have checked the itinerary and ensure there are no clashes before the event. If you wish to enter more than one sporting event, please contact kiaora@rainbowgames.co.nz to express your interest.
No, previous experience is not required to participate in the sports events. Every sport has different divisions and classifications to give every participant a meaningful experience regardless of their ability or experience in sport. However, participants are encouraged to choose a grade that matches their skill level and familiarise themselves with the rules and regualtions relevant to the competition before the event begins. This will be available to view on the website at least one month before the sport begins.
There are 15 sports included in the Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024: 5k/10k/Half Marathon run, badminton, basketball 3x3, volleyball 4s, roller derby, lawn bowls, aquatics (swimming and diving), softball, ten pin bowling, netball, tennis, touch, rugby 7s, and football.
Yes, there is an OUTreach programme actively promoting the Games to disadvantaged communities and allowing players with barriers to participation to participate. More information will be available soon.
Each player will need to register for their sport individually, however, we can put you into a team group so you can see each others profiles. Participants will be prompted to declare their team affiliation/team name in the registration process as well. Let us know if you want to grouped in your team by emailing kiaora@rainbowgames.co.nz
Yes, family and friends are welcome to attend and watch the sports events. More information on spectators and visitors will be available over the coming months.
All of the rules, dates and regulations relevant to event cancellations and/or refunds are outlined in the terms and conditions.
You can register for the Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024 by visiting the official event website and following the registration process on the webpage specific to the sport you wish to enter.
Yes, once you have registered through our online platform YouLi, you can log back into the system to view your registration details and find out more about the event. You can also download the YouLi app to view on your mobile.
We are excited to be bringing a vibrant range of merchandise for teams, players and supporters to wear Rainbow Games merchandise with pride. More information on this will be available soon.
If you have any questions or concerns before the event, please contact kiaora@rainbowgames.co.nz and the team will be happy to help you.
Yes, there will be trained medical staff and services avaialble to assist with first aid and emergency medical services if required.
Participants will be able to access an exciting arts, culture and social hub during Games time. More information on this will be available over the coming months.
Visibility is crucial for the rainbow community as it helps to break down stereotypes, challenge stigma, and promote acceptance and inclusion. It also helps to create a safe and supportive environment for members of the community to participate in events like the Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024.
There are food and drink outlets in each venue or in the immediate vicinity to all sports venues which are part of the Games, including vegetarian and vegan options. Please check on the appropriate venue's website regarding rules around bringing your own food and drink.
The term 'Rainbow Community/LGBTQI+' refers to people of minority sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions including, but not limited to: Takataapui, Bisexual, Gay, Gender-Queer, Homosexual, Intersex, Lesbian, Queer, Transgender, Transexual, Whakawāhine, Whakatāne, Tangata ira Tāne, Mahu, Vaka salewalewa, Palopa, Fa’afafine, Akava’ine, Fakaleiti, Fakafifine.
Sport is one of many sectors which to this day is still not open to everyone. Some minority groups and athletes are barred from competing in sport, based on their gender identity, and some could even be subject to serious health and safety risks based on their sexuality or identity. This can cause people to experience a hostile environment which causes negative thoughts, feelings and consequences. Everyone has the right to health and wellbeing opportunities, including sport and the Rainbow Games are an opportunity to break these barriers/traditions, create a safe and inclusive environment and let people unite and play sports, regardless of who they are.
No. In fact we actively welcome all allies and LGBTQI+ friendly participants to the Rainbow Games as it is important to work together alongside the Game's values to set an example for our community, our Rangathai and the sports world in order to bring about change. Everyone and anyone who is involved in the Games will need agree to our player code of conduct and our gender inclusion policy to be a part of the Games.
Participants must be 18 years or older on the first day of the event, i.e., April 5, 2024. Participants aged 13-18 are encouraged to attend our Rangatahi sports, movement and wellness celebration - more information will be available soon. Meanwhile, all ages are welcome to attend the sports event as a spectator.
The Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024 is a multi-sports, inclusive event for members of the rainbow community and allies.
The Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024 is primarily based at the Trusts Arena and surrounding venues.
Badminton, Roller Derby, Basketball 3x3, Volleyball 4s, Touch, Rugby 7s, Football, arts, culture and social hubs, along with Rangatahi and disability sport components will take place at The Trusts Arena.
Other venues include: Te Pai Netball Centre (Netball), PINS Bowling Henderson (Ten-Pin Bowling), Waitakere Bears Softball Club (Softball), Henderson Bowls Club (Lawn Bowls/Bowls3Five), West Wave Swimming Pool (Aquatics) and Albany Tennis Centre (Tennis).
There will also be activities taking place around Auckland CBD with more information to be released over the coming months.
The Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024 will take place from April 5-11, 2024.
For most sports, the early bird price is $185 per person (including booking fees and gst) which is available: to the first 20 paid registrants or until 31 August 2023 (whichever comes first) and this includes:
The post early-bird offer is $265 (including booking fees and gst). More information regarding full registration and payments will be available shortly.
Please note: The prices are slightly different for tennis and running. Please see their sport-specific pages for more details - click here.
Auckland has a number of eco-tourism opportunities, such as visiting Tiritiri Matangi Island bird sanctuary, exploring the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, or taking a guided tour of the Auckland Domain. Find out more at Discover Auckland - Travel, Tourism & Events | AucklandNZ.com
Auckland has many shopping options, including boutique stores, high-end fashion brands, and local markets such as the Auckland Fish Market and the Otara Market.
Find out more at Explore Auckland - The Best Things To Do & See | AucklandNZ.com
Auckland has a thriving LGBT community, with a number of LGBT-friendly bars, clubs, and events throughout the city. Karangahape Road is the heart of Auckland LGBTQI+ community and you can find out more about the events, venues and things to do at karangahaperoad.com
Auckland has many cultural attractions, such as the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, the Māori cultural experience at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and the Pasifika Festival celebrating Pacific Island culture. Find out more at Discover Auckland - Travel, Tourism & Events | AucklandNZ.com
There are many day trip options from Auckland, such as visiting the Hobbiton movie set, exploring the Waitakere Ranges and Piha Beach, or taking a trip to the Coromandel Peninsula. Find out more at Discover Auckland - Travel, Tourism & Events | AucklandNZ.com
Auckland has a diverse and vibrant food scene, with a wide range of international cuisines and local specialties such as seafood and Māori-inspired dishes. Here are some helpful links to help you find some of the best food and drink spots:
Explore Auckland - The Best Things To Do & See | AucklandNZ.com
There are several options for getting around Auckland as a tourist, including public transportation such as buses and trains, taxi services, ride-sharing apps, and rental cars. Find out more at Auckland Transport (at.govt.nz)
Auckland has many outdoor activities to offer, such as hiking, kayaking, surfing, beachcombing, sailing, and fishing, among others. Find out more at Explore Auckland - The Best Things To Do & See | AucklandNZ.com
Auckland has a number of top tourist attractions, including the Sky Tower, Auckland Harbour Bridge, Waiheke Island, Auckland War Memorial Museum, and Auckland Zoo, among others. Find out more at Discover Auckland - Travel, Tourism & Events | AucklandNZ.com
The organising committee has plans to work with disability sport organisations to deliver a disability come-and-try sports session to encourage participation. More information will be available soon.
New Zealand is generally considered to be a safe and accepting country for LGBTQI+ people. The country has a long history of supporting LGBTQI+ rights and was the first country in the world to grant women the right to vote. In 1986, New Zealand also became one of the first countries to decriminalize homosexuality. In terms of safety for LGBTQI+ travelers, the New Zealand government has taken steps to promote LGBTQI+ equality and inclusivity. Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is illegal in New Zealand, and the country has laws protecting LGBTQI+ people from hate speech and hate crimes. Additionally, LGBTQI+ individuals have the right to marry and adopt children in New Zealand. Auckland, in particular, has a vibrant LGBTQI+ community, with numerous bars, clubs, and events catering to the community. While no place can guarantee complete safety, New Zealand and Auckland have generally been praised for their LGBTQI+ inclusivity and tolerance. As with any travel, it's always a good idea to exercise caution and stay aware of your surroundings, but overall, New Zealand is considered a safe and welcoming destination for LGBTQI+ travelers.
We are excited to be bringing a vibrant range of merchandise for teams, players and supporters to wear Rainbow Games merchandise with pride. More information on this will be available soon.
Yes, there is an OUTreach programme actively promoting the Games to disadvantaged communities and allowing players with barriers to participation to participate. More information will be available soon.
Each player will need to register for their sport individually, however, we can put you into a team group so you can see each others profiles. Participants will be prompted to declare their team affiliation/team name in the registration process as well. Let us know if you want to grouped in your team by emailing kiaora@rainbowgames.co.nz
All of the rules, dates and regulations relevant to event cancellations and/or refunds are outlined in the terms and conditions.
You can register for the Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024 by visiting the official event website and following the registration process on the webpage specific to the sport you wish to enter.
Yes, once you have registered through our online platform YouLi, you can log back into the system to view your registration details and find out more about the event. You can also download the YouLi app to view on your mobile.
Yes, family and friends are welcome to attend and watch the sports events. More information on spectators and visitors will be available over the coming months.
Participants are advised to bring appropriate sports gear and equipment, including sports shoes, sports clothing, and any equipment specific to their chosen sport (e.g. badminton and tennis players will need to bring their own rackets). Participants should also bring sunscreen (particularly if playing outside), a water bottle, and any personal items they may require.
It is the participants/spectator's responsibility to organise their own travel and personal insurances to cover property and possible damages to themself or a third party for the whole period of Rainbow Games 2024.
Yes, participants need to follow the rules and regulations set by the event organizers, including rules related to sportsmanship, fair play, and safety. This is covered in the gender policy, health and wellbeing policy and player code of conduct which is agreed in the registration phase. You can view all of these in our website footer too. Participants also need to follow any rules and regulations specific to their chosen sport which will be available on the respective sport's webpage closer to Games' time.
Yes, there are competitive and social grades available to enable everyone to get the best possible experience. Please view each sport-specific webpage to view details on the grades/divisions relevant to the sport.
No, participants will not be asked to prove their gender. During the registration process, a participant may be asked to indicate their preferred gender of participation i.e., the gender category they feel most comfortable with when participating at the Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau to assist with the tournament scheduling, however they will not need to prove the selected gender or identity. The organisers specifically note that certain sports will be dealt with in accordance with their own sporting codes’ policies regarding gender participation, for example rugby. More information can be found in our Gender Policy.
It is possible to participate in more than one sport, but this is subject to scheduling constraints. It is the players responsibility to ensure they have checked the itinerary and ensure there are no clashes before the event. If you wish to enter more than one sporting event, please contact kiaora@rainbowgames.co.nz to express your interest.
No, previous experience is not required to participate in the sports events. Every sport has different divisions and classifications to give every participant a meaningful experience regardless of their ability or experience in sport. However, participants are encouraged to choose a grade that matches their skill level and familiarise themselves with the rules and regualtions relevant to the competition before the event begins. This will be available to view on the website at least one month before the sport begins.
There are 15 sports included in the Rainbow Games Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland 2024: 5k/10k/Half Marathon run, badminton, basketball 3x3, volleyball 4s, roller derby, lawn bowls, aquatics (swimming and diving), softball, ten pin bowling, netball, tennis, touch, rugby 7s, and football.
Transport discount options are available to participants as part of their registration - more information on this will be available soon. Nonetheless, participants are encouraged to take public transport to attend their sporting events. You can find out how to get to each sporting venue here. Participants are encouraged to plan their transport in advance, aligned with the schedules they receive ahead of the event.
Find out more about Auckland's public transport at Auckland Transport (at.govt.nz)
It is the players, teams and supporters' responsibility to find out the entry requirements to New Zealand. You may require a visa to enter New Zealand to take part in the Rainbow Games 2024. Here are some helpful links to help you find out infomration on visas to enter New Zealand:
Visa and entry requirements to New Zealand | 100% Pure New Zealand (newzealand.com)
Check if you need a visitor visa or an NZeTA | New Zealand Government (www.govt.nz)
There are several options for getting around Auckland as a tourist, including public transportation such as buses and trains, taxi services, ride-sharing apps, and rental cars. Find out more at Auckland Transport (at.govt.nz)