This article was published in 2015. To maintain an accurate record of our history, we have kept references to previous organisation names and terms such as New Zealand AIDS Foundation, Ending HIV and Love Your Condom.

NZAF estimates a turn-out of 12,000 to 15,000 people again at this year's signature event.

The event doubles as a celebration of the diverse LGBTQI community and an opportunity for LYC to share its HIV prevention messaging: ‘Love Your Condom’. 

LYC Big Gay Out spokesperson Joe Rich says it was fantastic to see so many out and proud people enjoying themselves. “By all accounts this was the greatest and gayest Big Gay Out ever. We couldn’t be happier with how things went. The weather turned on its charm, the crowds just kept coming, and everybody really got stuck into the spirit of it. 

“Thanks must also go to the 80 amazing LYC volunteers and crew who pitched in to help with the event. This is a community event and we couldn’t have run it without them,” adds Rich.

This year also saw a giant, interactive LED screen positioned next to the Durex main stage displaying photos uploaded to Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag ‘biggayout’. Over 1000 images were displayed throughout the day, showcasing moments of joy and celebration amongst the crowd. 

Market stalls, music, community performances and shows featured as well – all adding to the diverse and colourful atmosphere of the event.

LYC distributed 20,000 condoms during the course of the day and the team at the NZAF Burnett Centre tent tested 209 people for HIV.