Rotorua Chamber of Pride organises weekly rainbow walks and monthly social gatherings. Photo / Supplied
Rotorua Chamber of Pride organises weekly rainbow walks and monthly social gatherings. Photo / Supplied
A charity representing Rotorua’s LGBTQIA+ community has been given a $10,000 boost to stage a Matariki Pride event.
Rotorua Chamber of Pride trustee and treasurer Maddie Palfrey said the grant would help the organisation become more visible and active in the city, with plans to run more events, launch awebsite, set up community support groups, and compile a list of professionals like doctors and psychologists who LGBTQIA+ locals can trust.
“2026 is going to be a big year for us. Not only have we established ourselves more formally and employed a part-time coordinator to action our strategic plan, but we also have a lot of funding behind us now and programmes in place. It’s continual progress, and we are loving it.”
The charitable trust, also known as Rainbow Rotorua, was set up in 2023 to provide regular events, social gatherings and essential services so people can connect, express themselves and feel a true sense of belonging.
Funding had also been received from Rotorua Trust, Geyser Community Foundation, the Department of Internal Affairs and private donors.
“We exist to make Rotorua a place where being your authentic self is not just accepted, it is celebrated,” Palfrey explained.
“It helps to have something visible and tangible – a place where people can come together, find information and develop a sense of belonging and pride. Whānau, allies, and the wider Rotorua community also benefit through increased understanding, stronger connections and the celebration of diversity.”
Rotorua Chamber of Pride trustee and treasurer Maddie Palfrey. Photo / Supplied
Palfrey said a lack of dedicated resources and events has left many within Rotorua’s LGBTQIA+ community – particularly youth, Māori and multicultural individuals – suffering from isolation, discrimination and poor mental health.
“There was someone who came to our weekly walking group and it was the first time they’d been outside in months. It was the first time they’d told someone else they were trans; it was the first time they were actually respected and had their name used correctly.
“When you see someone like that who was struggling, and who is now able to have a life and enjoy themselves and be accepted for who they are, it’s absolutely worth it.”
Rotorua Chamber of Pride now organises weekly rainbow walks, monthly social gatherings, guest speakers, panel discussions, creative workshops, and annual events such as Matariki Pride.
“I still remember being 14 and people protesting about civil union law being passed,” Palfrey said.
“Nowadays you think ‘we’re in a good place’ yet we have people in our community constantly saying they’re struggling and feeling unsafe. They need help and support and services. There’s not been a lot out there for us in Rotorua until now.”
BayTrust Community & Māori liaison adviser Lotima Vaioletisaid while the world was a more accepting place for LGBTQIA+ people these days, a lot of prejudice and fear still exists.
“There are some outspoken critics who want to disestablish rights that queer and transgender people have fought hard to achieve. Having a community of people who understand and support you is vital, particularly for mental health.
“The connections and support that Rotorua Chamber of Pride are providing are essential, allowing people to be themselves and find a safe and secure place in our community.
“We want to see all Bay of Plenty communities flourish. We’re pleased to provide this financial support and look forward to attending Matariki Pride 2026 and many other great events to come.”
