SkyCity gets Pride Pledge certification

04/17/25

The Pride Pledge certification recognises dedication to promoting a more inclusive and supportive workplace for all employees.

New Zealand.- SkyCity has announced that it has received Pride Pledge certification for creating an inclusive workplace for its employees, especially those from the LGBTTQIAP+ community. The casino operator started the process of obtaining the certification last December, reviewing policies and practices and undergoing additional training by the Pride Pledge team.

SkyCity chief executive officer Jason Walbridge said: “We have big ambitions for SkyCity and want the best people to come to work with us – you can’t do that unless you make everyone feel welcome, supported and able to be themselves.”

SkyCity: "We're proud to be certified Pride Pledge. Active & Engaged rainbow employee committee. Rainbow inclusion & Awareness Training. Rainbow DEI backed by Leadership team.

SkyCity chief people and culture officer Shaun Philp said: “We believe that everyone deserves to feel comfortable, respected, and valued at work, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation,” said Philp. “The Pride Pledge certification is a meaningful recognition of the progress we’ve made, but it’s also a reminder that there is still much more to do.”

Pride Pledge director Martin King said: “We are thrilled that SkyCity is the first to achieve this new standard for Rainbow Diversity, Equity and Inclusion certification. Their commitments are authentic and genuine with deep employee engagement at heart.”

SkyCity’s Diversity, equity and inclusion manager Karina Nathan, said, “We were challenged at every step to move beyond token gestures and really embed inclusion into the way we work. The certification process pushed us to examine ourselves honestly and act with purpose, and we’re better for it. As a large organisation, it means a lot to know we’re staying true to our values. We’re proud to stand visibly alongside our Rainbow communities and celebrate together.

“At SkyCity, we’re dedicated to creating an environment where everyone can bring their authentic selves to work, and while this certification is a milestone in our continuous journey, it’s not the end. We must keep learning, growing, and striving to do better every day.”