Winter Pride is a festival in a small town with a bold heart, celebrating love, community, diversity, visibility, safety and inclusion.
This annual event has been capturing hearts and celebrating diversity since its establishment in 2003. What began as a modest gathering in the snow has transformed into a grand celebration known today as Winter Pride. This

Origins of Gay Ski Week
In the early 2000s, the LGBTQ+ community sought an event that would blend their love for winter sports with a vibrant celebration of their identities. It was in this spirit that Mike Sandford introduced the initial Gay Ski Week in 2003. While a promising concept, the event struggled financially during its early years.

Saviors: Sally and Mandy
In 2012, financial difficulties pushed the event to the brink of closure. At this critical juncture, two local heroes emerged: Sally Woods and Mandy White. Their intervention not only rescued Gay Ski Week from approaching demise but also breathed new life into it. Under their lead, the event flourished, gaining prominence as a must-attend celebration for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.

A Fresh Era: Mike and Martin's Leadership
In 2017, long term couple Mike Hughes and Martin King, took over directorship of the festival. They ushered in a new era by rebranding the event as Winter Pride, marking a significant transition for the celebration. Under Mike and Martin's guidance, Winter Pride underwent a remarkable transformation. Their leadership solidified the event's reputation and garnered robust community support. Over six years, they devoted their time and effort to nurturing the festival's growth and spreading its message of love, acceptance, and diversity.

Passing the Baton: New Ownership and Ambitions
In 2023, Mike Hughes and Martin King decided it was time to bid farewell to Winter Pride, but not before leaving an enduring legacy. They entrusted the festival's future to Sam Coulthard and Odette Rose, both deeply passionate about Queenstown and eager to build upon Winter Pride's achievements. Sam and Odette bring fresh aspirations to the table. Their vision extends to expanding the festival's reach, attracting participants and visitors from across the globe, and ensuring the celebration of diversity continues to thrive.

A Festival Reimagined
Winter Pride's journey from its modest beginnings as Gay Ski Week to the extravagant festival it is today is a testament to its transformation. Beyond being a mere event, it has become a symbol of unity, acceptance, love, and community.