WOOF! – The Rainbow Dog Show 2026

Auckland’s most colourful canine celebration is back for its eleventh year as WOOF! – The Rainbow Dog Show returns to lower Western Park on Sunday 8 March 2026. Hundreds of dog lovers, families, and rainbow community members are expected to gather for an afternoon of joy, glamour, and fourlegged fabulousness.

This year’s event shines a spotlight on the dogs who continue to support us through changing times. Whether helping us navigate hybrid work life, boosting our wellbeing, or simply being the loyal companions we adore, our pups remain the unsung heroes of daily life. Adoption rates across Aotearoa have stayed strong over the past few years, with many people choosing to welcome a furry friend into their homes for comfort, connection, and companionship.

Event organiser and lifelong dog devotee Steven Oates says 2026 brings fresh energy to a beloved tradition: “Every year Woof! grows bigger, brighter, and more joyfilled. We’re excited to welcome back our community for another afternoon of celebration — and yes, we’ve lined up an allstar panel of returning judges. Ben Barrington, Justine Smith, Tom Sainsbury, Louisa Wall and Drag Diva Buckwheat will be putting the pups through their paces….

The event continues to champion the wellbeing of the rainbow community. Feelings of isolation and mental health challenges remain a reality for many — and dogs, with their unconditional affection and nonjudgmental nature, offer a powerful source of comfort and connection. “As we know, animals don’t judge,” says Steven. “Give them love and care, and they’ll return it in leaps and bounds.”

Expect plenty of that love — plus a few joyful barks — as dogs of every shape, size, and personality take to the dogwalk to compete for Best Dressed, Dog & Owner Lookalike, Most Camp, and Most Butch.

The paws hit the runway at 2pm sharp, with ontheday registrations open from 1–1:30pm. Winners will take home certificates and prizes from Nutrience.

“Woof! may be created by Auckland’s Rainbow Community, but it’s for all dog lovers,” Steven adds. “And of course, we’re bringing back one of our most popular categories — Wee Woofers — celebrating adorable kids and their equally adorable furry best friends.”

The event takes place in lower Western Park, near the tennis courts at the end of Beresford Street West. Attendees can enjoy burgers, refreshments and ice cream on site. Bring a blanket, find a shady spot (or bring your own), and settle in for an afternoon of canine charisma and K9 capers.

A huge thankyou goes to sponsors Nutrience Dog Food and the Rule Foundation for helping make Woof! New Zealand’s biggest and brightest Rainbow Dog Show.

You’d be barking mad to miss it.

WOOF! – The Rainbow Dog Show

Sunday 8 March, Lower Western Park, Ponsonby

Registrations from 1pm, competition begins at 2pm

$5 per category, with all proceeds donated to the Auckland SPCA

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