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New Zealand

News from within the borders of New Zealand and the fight for LGBT equality there. New Zealand legalized marriage equality in 2013. Learn more about past and present obstacles toward achieving equality in New Zealand including hate crimes law, transgender rights, adoption, and other rights denied to same-sex couples and LGBT people. Learn about individuals--activists, politicians, and allies--who have helped us make strides toward equality. We also cover the campaigns of groups opposed to marriage equality and explore how gay marriage is covered in mainstream media. We stay on top of developments so that you can stay informed about this issue.

Georgina Beyer, the first out transgender woman elected to government worldwide in New Zealand in 1999
Transgender

World’s First Out Transgender Member of Parliament Dies at 65

During Georgina Beyer's time in public office, she became well known for her LGBTQ+ advocacy and efforts to bring marriage equality to New Zealand.

Campbell Johnstone
Coming Out

Gay Rugby Player Campbell Johnstone on Coming Out

As a rugby player, Campbell Johnstone 'pushed away' his sexuality. Now, he wants to open the door for more people to come out

Images of Campbell Johnston playing rugby and another of him retired
Sports

Campbell Johnson, Former All Blacks Pro-Rugby Player, Comes Out As Gay

Campbell Johnstone is the first member of the famed New Zealand rugby team to come out.

Laurel Hubbard at Olympics
Sports

Trans Athletes Can Self-Identify in Community Sports in New Zealand

The new policy doesn't force transgender athletes to explain their gender identity to play on sports teams that better fit their identity.

LGBTQ+ rights demonstrations in Israel and New Zealand
World

New Zealand, Israel Take Steps Against Conversion Therapy

New Zealand passes a law banning use of the practice on minors and certain others, while Israel issues rules barring medical professionals from offering it.

Rob Tennent
Books
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Rob Tennent Captures Erotic Beauty in New Zealand

I’m Going to Miss You documents the long and nostalgic summer days, shared with beautiful men. The book of photography explores intimacy, sensuality, and romance.

JK Rowling
Books

Book Festival Cancels Harry Potter Quiz Over Rowling Transphobia

The Featherston Booktown Kaukatea Festival in New Zealand will not include its regular Harry Potter quiz this year, due to author J.K. Rowling's transphobic statements.

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Lesbian

Lesbians Kiss to Protest Homophobic Preacher at Pride Parade

The controversial conservative, Phillip Blair, had no idea what he was up against. 

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern
World

New Zealand PM: Conversion Therapy Ban May Impair Religious Freedom

Jacinda Ardern, generally an LGBTQ ally, says she is concerned about the harm done by the practice but also about religious liberty considerations.

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Family

A Sperm Donor Is Trying to Block Lesbian Moms' Move to New Zealand

The donor is using homophobia to bolster his case.

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World

Birds in 30-Year Same-Sex Interspecies Relationship to Get Statue

New Zealanders want to honor the love between Thomas the white goose and Henry the black swan, who raised 68 cygnets.

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Travel

New Zealand’s North Island

Renowned for their vistas and world-class LGBT-friendliness, Auckland, Wellington, Hawke's Bay, and Waiheke Island charm visitors.

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Marriage Equality

Straight Mates Marry for Rugby Tickets

A radio competition orchestrated same-sex marriage for two straight male friends and gay rights groups are outraged.

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Transgender

WATCH: Trans Refugee Finally Finds Safety in New Zealand

After months of being rejected for asylum because she had not undergone any gender-confirming surgeries, trans refugee Eliana Rubashkyn says she can finally live as herself in New Zealand.

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Pride

PHOTOS: Pride in Auckland, New Zealand

The passing of time and the weaving together of cultures struck a theme for this year's Pride parade.

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Wedding

WATCH: New Zealand's First Same-Sex Marriage in the Sky

Lynley Bendall and Ally Wanikau were among the first same-sex couples to marry in New Zealand on Monday, but they did so high above the Kiwi nation, with out actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson on board.