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Port of Auckland lit up in a rainbow of colour throughout the month of February to celebrate Pride Month for the first time.  

'Port Pride' came to life in different ways with office decorations, events, staff signing a Pride Pledge, buildings lighting up in the rainbow colours, to Sparky, the port's electric tugboat, being adorned with rainbow bunting.    

Port of Auckland CEO, Roger Gray, says the company will continue to show its support for the rainbow community year-round. 

"By celebrating Pride Month we have demonstrated to everyone within our port whānau and beyond, that this is a safe space to be yourself," Gray says. "It also brings to life one of our core company values of showing care and respect to one another. We will continue to champion, diversity, equity, and inclusion across the business."

A Port Pride organising committee, consisting of rainbow community members and allies from across the port, is planning to celebrate rainbow events and milestones in the buildup to next year's Pride Month.    

Committee and rainbow community member Dustin Lakey says the port's recognition of Pride Month was significant.  "It signals a pivotal shift towards greater inclusivity and acceptance within our workplace, fostering a sense of belonging and validation for LGBTQIA+ employees like me.

"This acknowledgment not only affirms our identities but also signifies the company's commitment to diversity and equality, creating a more supportive and affirming environment for all employees regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity."