International Condom Day

International Condom Day History

International Condom Day is an annual event promoted by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) as an innovative, yet fun and light-hearted way to remind people that wearing condoms can prevent STIs, including HIV, and unwanted pregnancies. It advocates for routine condom use with an objective to reduce the spread of sexually transmitted infections and promote healthy sexual behaviour. Apart from this, the observance also seeks to break down the associated stigmatism and shame, by promoting a positive and open dialogue surrounding sexual health and condom use.

In New Zealand, the relevance of International Condom Day carries weight, considering sexual health is a significant public health issue. AHF began recognising the day in the mid-2000s in an effort to normalise condom use. The country has been actively participating, acknowledging increased rates of STIs as a global issue. This initiative fits well with New Zealand's robust sexual health strategies which also encourage the use of condoms as a prime method of prevention for STIs.

International Condom Day is observed in New Zealand across various spaces such as colleges, health facilities, and community centres. Activities often include humour-filled educational games, condom distribution, testing for STIs, and wearing of condom-themed attire to promote the cause. Condom accessibility is also highlighted, reminding the public that condoms are conveniently available in various outlets including supermarkets, pharmacies, and vending machines. The observance takes place annually on February 14, coinciding with Valentine's Day, delivering an important message about love and safety on a day that celebrates relationships.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 International Condom Day in NZ

• The Big Gay Out festival at Coyle Park on February 15, 2026, serves as the premier community outreach event for the observance, featuring more than 200 stalls and a major presence from the Burnett Foundation Aotearoa.
• To address local research showing that 25% of people use the wrong size condom, the Pūkoro Ure Fit Kit was specifically developed in New Zealand to help individuals find a reliable and comfortable fit.
• Historical records from Te Papa highlight that the first rubber condoms imported to New Zealand in the mid-19th century were notoriously unreliable because they frequently perished during the long, humid sea voyage through the tropics.
• Each year, a dedicated network of volunteers in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch hand-packs approximately 750,000 free condom and lube kits for nationwide distribution through various clinics and community hubs.
• The coinciding Auckland Pride Festival 2026 is operating under the theme Ngā Uri E!, which acts as a "rallying cry" for current generations to carry forward the legacy of the original rainbow rights movement.
• Recent public health campaigns like Don’t be a Dk getting DK utilize cheekier, high-energy visuals by illustrator H O R N O to reach young people who may otherwise rely on adult films for their sexual education.
• A popular piece of trivia often shared during local celebrations is the nearly unpronounceable Danish word for condom, svangerskabsforebyggendemiddel, which is sometimes used in educational games to break the ice.
• During World War II, the commander of the New Zealand forces, General Bernard Freyberg, famously defended the importance of sexual health by retorting that if his soldiers could not engage in intimacy, they would be unable to fight.
• As part of the month-long festivities, the PROWL FEST queer dance festival will host free Waacking workshops on the Friday of the observance to celebrate gender expression through street dance.
• The New Zealand College of Sexual and Reproductive Health is scheduled to hold its 2026 conference in Hamilton under the title Currents of Change – Advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health in Aotearoa.

In the News and Trending in NZ for International Condom Day

Top things to do in NZ for International Condom Day

• Say the Danish word for condom 10 times fast. Svangerskabsforebyggendemiddel
• Talk to your kids about safe sex and answer any questions they may have.
• Attend Avant-Garde Art Exhibitions: Sometimes, artists or communities create art installations or stage performances to capture the public's eye to the subject matter.
• Participate in Discussions and Debates: Some organizations might hold public forums or discussions on sexual health topics, including the importance of condom usage.