This week, OHS students and teachers attended Lil Gay Out 2026 at Massey University in Albany. More than 300 rainbow and takatāpui secondary school students from over 20 schools across Tāmaki Makaurau came together for the event, which was hosted by Massey University for the first time. The day began with a Mihi Whakatau and Hugo Grrl's electrifying performance, followed by a panel discussion featuring Green Party Co-Leader Chlöe Swarbrick MP, Dr Tere McGonagle-Daly of Massey University, and takatāpui artist and cultural leader Hāmiora Bailey. From beginning to end, the programme offered students opportunities to listen, learn and engage.

Students took part in two rounds of workshops spanning cosplay, comics, self-defence, visual art, dance, and Ka mua, Ka muri: Walking Backwards into the Future, a session tracing the whakapapa of queerness and takatāpuitanga in Aotearoa from before colonisation to the present day. Between workshops, students explored the festival market, enjoyed a provided lunch and tried their luck in the raffle. Performer Miss Geena brought the space to life throughout the day, and the farewell left everyone walking away on a high.

Thank you to everyone at Lil Gay Out, along with the volunteers, speakers, performers and community partners who made the event possible. It was a memorable day that provided our students with opportunities to learn, connect with others and celebrate alongside young people from across Auckland.