Orewa College’s 2025 Pride Fair filled a rainy Thursday with colour, aroha and allyship to celebrate our rainbow ākonga.

Orewa College celebrates School Pride Month with colour, kōrero and connection

Despite the drizzle on Thursday 12 June, the vibe was anything but dampened as H Block lit up with laughter, music and rainbow celebration during our 2025 School Pride Fair.

Held during lunchtime and hosted by the Plus+ Diversity Group, the Pride Fair was a vibrant reminder of why Pride still matters. From a spontaneous conga line weaving through the crowd to button-making, arts and crafts, and ally lanyards proudly worn by staff, the event was a joyful celebration of acceptance and identity.

“People sometimes ask why we still need Pride,” said our Guidance Counsellor. “But rainbow ākonga still face discrimination, even here in Aotearoa. This is about showing everyone they are welcome and safe at our kura.”

While same-sex relationships are still illegal in over 60 countries, even in inclusive communities LGBTQIA+ rangatahi are more likely to experience bullying, and are more than twice as likely to attempt suicide than their cisgender, heterosexual peers. That’s why visibility and allyship remain vital.

Orewa College’s Plus+ Diversity Group meets every Thursday in D9, creating a safe space for queer students and allies to connect. 

Ngā mihi to all who brought aroha and energy to this year’s Pride celebration. You made a difference.

📷 Photo credit: Bhavitha Kotra