Tauranga Moana Pride Picnic a first for the city

Tauranga's waterfront is set to be transformed into a colourful and vibrant hub on Saturday when a picnic celebrating diversity takes place. Photo / File

Tauranga's waterfront is set to be transformed into a colourful and vibrant hub on Saturday when a picnic celebrating diversity takes place.

The inaugural Tauranga Moana Pride Picnic is being held from 12pm to 3pm before a Pride Walk along The Strand.

The family-friendly event encourages people to come together to enjoy an afternoon of live entertainment, music, food stalls, games and activities.

Volunteer Lee Lucas said the picnic's motto "Be yourself, everyone else is taken" reflected the diversity, passion and sense of pride shared by people across the Bay of Plenty.

"When planning the Pride Picnic, we were really keen to ensure that the event would be a fun and exciting experience that could be enjoyed by everyone," Lucas said.

The event will begin with a welcome from Manurewa MP Louisa Wall and end with the walk, which is aimed to recognise LGBTIQ rights, and celebrate the inclusive pride within the community.

"We are encouraging everyone to come down, enjoy the atmosphere and celebrate the diversity and inclusion that we are really proud of," Lucas said.

"Community is not what you are taught, or what you might have been exposed to by one TV show, or through popular culture and social media. We are people, we are human, just like everyone else, we are a real part of this community."

Volunteer Carlo Koppe said he hoped people could leave the event feeling they accept themselves more and it is okay to be who they are.

"It is not just a once a year thing, it is something we have to do every day, but here we have this opportunity to get together and be super proud of who we are and show the community that we are here, we are part of this community," Koppe said.

Picnic-goers were encouraged to consider waste-free alternatives when packing their food and beverages or bring reusable bags to take their rubbish home with them. All food and beverage suppliers will also be going waste-free and using sustainable packaging options.

If people would like to support the Tauranga Moana Pride Picnic, or volunteer to assist the organising crew at the event, please contact Lucas on 022 184 8358 or via email leelazo@yahoo.com