Wellington Airport has kicked off the city's Pride celebrations by painting a massive rainbow alongside its runway.

The rainbow is painted over 3000 square metres on a grass embankment that runs alongside the airport's runway.

It took three days to pain the rainbow using special temporary turf paint, which is expected to last about three to four weeks.

Wellington Mayor Justin Lester said the rainbow is a perfect example of the city's diversity, calling it one of the most inclusive cities on the planet.

"Last year we painted the Rainbow Crossing on Dixon Street - it's not quite as big - to show how we embrace everyone," he said.

Wellington is also hosting the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association's global conference in March.

Roxy Coevers, a board member at Wellington Pride Festival, said the rainbow is a sign of the city's welcoming nature.

"To my knowledge, it's the largest scale painted rainbow in honour of Pride in New Zealand, and the festival team is excited to have this very powerful and visual display of solidarity for LGBTQIAF+ folks during our yearly celebrations," she said.

There are over 128 events during Wellington Pride Festival, including the popular Out in the Park event on March 16.

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