Queenstown Lakes mayor Glyn Lewers has welcomed Winter Pride, which began this week.

“Running for 11 days, it’s the largest event in the southern hemisphere celebrating the Rainbow community and which, in its own words, ‘invites the entire town to come together and celebrate diversity’,” he said.

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) shares the values of Winter Pride, Glyn said.

“Council’s commitment to the Pride Pledge goes back several years thanks to my predecessor as mayor, Jim Boult,” he said. 

Queenstown Lakes mayor Glyn Lewers

“Inclusion, safety and visibility are very important to us, both for our employees and the work they do and also for the community with whom we engage on a daily basis.”

Glyn said he was saddened to hear that a number of street flags promoting the event were removed from the centre of Queenstown on Wednesday (August 21). 

“I understand this incident has, quite rightly, been reported to police. But whether it was a drunken prank or something more deliberate and targeted, it has caused hurt and anger to many people, whether they are here to enjoy Winter Pride or not.”

“While I respect anyone’s right not to engage in this celebration if they choose, I am firmly opposed to anyone who thinks they have the right to take choice away from others.

“I hope everyone here to celebrate diversity, inclusion and tolerance has a fabulous time.”

The annual Winter Pride event celebrates love, community, diversity, visibility, safety and inclusion.

It will run until September 11, with the majority of events over in Queenstown but a handful, including on-the-snow events taking place on this side of the hill.

Find full details of what’s on at Winter Pride here.

Otago Lakes Central Area Police Commander Inspector Paula Enoka asked anyone with information about the theft of the flags to contact police on 105 or online using ‘Update Report’ (reference file number 240822/6540).

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.