Drag, macrame and other accessible events this Auckland Pride Festival

Last year, The D*List partnered with Auckland Pride Festival to produce Deepen*, a curatorial programme which highlighted queer and disabled artists, led by Pelenakeke Brown and Beth Awatere.

As part of this programme, Beth wrote about how Pride events could be more accessible.  Because for some folks who sit within the intersection of disability and rainbow communities, it can be hard to know which events feel safe and accessible.

In a different approach this year, The D*List has contacted a few other Auckland Pride Festival event organisers to check what accessibility is on offer this year. You can check out the full programme here or contact Auckland Pride Festival directly via kiaora@aucklandpride.org.nz for more information about accessibility.

Embroidery for Crafty Queers

When: Sunday 9th February 12pm-3pm 

Try your hand at embroidery by designing and creating a patch that expresses what pride means to you. Held at Studio One Toi Tū in Ponsonby, which is wheelchair accessible, this workshop is suitable for beginners. Set in a chill and quiet environment, this is the perfect opportunity to explore embroidery as a creative outlet. Book your spot in the workshop here.

Drag On You

When: Thursday 13th February at 1pm

Embrace your inner diva with a drag makeover event held at the Ellen Melville Centre, which is wheelchair accessible. There will be makeup artists to transform your look and match you in a fabulous outfit fit for a Queen or King. If you’re not keen on a makeover, but want to support other whānau there will also be a red carpet to watch from and cheer on participants. Slots are limited so get in touch with Leela Bhai for more information contact: leela.bhai@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz 

Big Gay Out

When: Sunday 16th February 12pm-7pm

Big Gay Out will take over Coyle Park again this year bringing together community, musical performances, stall holders and good vibes. There is limited accessible parking available and accessible toilets around the park. This event is mostly on grass with some concrete pathways. Big Gay Out brings big crowds, but this year a low-sensory area will be set up for those who prefer to hang out in a more chill zone. 

Macrame with The ReCreators

When: Wednesday 19th Feb at 10am

Glen Eden Library and The ReCreators are hosting a free macrame making workshop for adults. If you’re crafty or fidgety with your hands, this might be a fun way to release some of your stims and make something new. The workshop will be in a relaxed environment and totally suitable for beginners. The Glen Eden Library is wheelchair accessible with an accessible toilet. You can register for a spot here. 

Zine & Badge Making Workshop 

When: Wednesday 19th February at 3:30pm-5pm

Get creative by designing your own zine and crafting a unique badge that represents you. Whether you're into writing, drawing or just having fun, this hands-on workshop is all about self-expression. The event is held at Highland Park Library which has ramped access to the entrance. 

Pride Book Club

When: Thursday 27th February at 6pm

Avondale Library is hosting a Pride Book Club to celebrate Pride Month. Share your favourite stories and literary icons, browse new books, create a badge at one of the craft stations or simply find a spot at the library and read with a cuppa! With the book club being held after hours it could be suitable for folks who prefer low-sensory settings, and the library has mobility parking and an accessible toilet.

Studio One Toi Tū exhibitions 

When: February 

Throughout February, Studio One Toi Tū is hosting various exhibitions to celebrate Pride Month. From 23rd Jan-20th February, Queer Icons is being presented by Lane Worrall. Worrall collaborates with the LGBTQIA+ community, capturing their joy through dynamic portraits. And from 19th-28th February, BEINGS: Tātou Tātou is being presented by Léon Bristow & Frances Carter. This is a photography exhibition to showcase authentic representation of our BIPOC, Rainbow, and Disabled identities, and champion the rich and unmatchable storytelling we bring to media spaces. All rooms and galleries are wheelchair accessible at Studio One Toi Tū.

We know that Pride is not just a monthly event. Celebrating and advocating for our rainbow and takatāpui whānau needs to be consistent and is also celebrated differently within communities. If you want to share any Pride events happening in your area, send us an email to kiaora@thedlist.co.nz 

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