The Night ‘n Day Rainbow Runs in Wānaka and Frankton, on November 21 and 22 respectively, will officially launch this year’s Summerdaze programme.

Summerdaze is a series of fun events organised or supported by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) in the summer months that aims to bring the community together.

The 2025/26 edition will see the return of the Rainbow Run, the Picnic in the Park series, and the popular Teddy Bears Picnic with Stride, Ride and Slide – a mini-triathlon for tamariki aged two to six years old.

QLDC community partnerships advisor Marie Schmidt said Summerdaze is all about community connection and enjoying the beauty of our district.

“It’s the sixth year of the Summerdaze programme and we’re delighted to offer a number of exciting, family-friendly community events,” she said. 

“Check out the QLDC website for a full schedule and make sure you get along to have some fun.”

Wānaka’s Rainbow Run will take place at Eely Point and tickets can be purchased online through Sport Central or in person on the day.

Sport Central community sport Advisor Jo Knight said she was excited to have the Rainbow Run back on the calendar.

“What better way to say hello to summer than a 3km fun run or walk while being colour-bombed at five different corn starch stations,” she said. 

“I challenge friends, family and flatmates to get together, dress up in black or white and have a blast.

“The local fire brigade will be on hand to douse participants near the start of the run to make the colours stick better, and we have volunteers and supporters joining QLDC in staffing the stations.”

The upcoming Picnic in the Park events will feature free BBQs, a games trailer, sports activities, face painting, a library pop-up tent, and QLDC’s elected members in attendance to discuss current topics of interest with residents. 

Dates for the picnics will be confirmed in December.

Learn more about the Rainbow Run and Summerdaze events in general, including dates and locations of activities on both sides of the Crown Range here. 

PHOTO: Supplied