# 153 - June 1995 

I write in extension of the letter published in your March issue (no. 152) by Alan Williamson. To quote from his letter - "My note-writer when naked feels more at home where he blends with nature rather than with other naked people, so quite understandably regards himself as a naturist".

Alan quoted too, "as (Joyce Fleming) says, we could debate this issue (are we nudists or naturists?) till the cows come home". Personally I don't think it matters all too much how long the cows take coming home, because "naturists" and "nudists" alike enjoy being free of clothes.

I have, myself, felt spiritually uplifted from many 'clothes-free' experiences. Being naked on ones' own or with others is immaterial to me. If people are comfortable with their own nakedness they should find the unclad form to be aesthetically beautiful and not sexually stimulating.

I have been a naturist in the true sense of the word ever since my boyhood, on through my teenage and into adult years working on my parents' farm in Australia. The enjoyment of many 'clothes-free' experiences when my father and I went swimming after our work; sometimes joined by relations or neighbours at our old "swimming hole"; provided a delightful and memorable period of my life. As a boy, I loved to rove along the tree-lined banks of that same stream totally naked, enjoying living things of nature all around me. The vivid memories of this are with me still, nearly three score years later.

Married, and with our two children we "migrated" to NZ from Australia nearly twenty one years ago now and as a family, joined the Waikato Outdoor Society for a while.

My family, though not involved in their mature years, and my wife, are all understanding of my participation in 'clothes-free' pursuits whenever such occasions are possible for me.

I do recall a time though when my son, then aged twelve, and I had a very pleasant long weekend trip with the Free Beach group to Mayor Island in the Bay of Plenty. In fact an article written by "Jenny" in "N.Z. Naturist" issue no. 95, made mention of us joining that very same energetic lady on an early morning bush walk to see the crater lakes, in the approximate centre of the island. It was quite an inspiring scene, to look down upon the twin lakes, from the hills above.

I narrated a very special experience (N.Z. Naturist, issue no. 125) of another occasion, on Great Barrier Island. While I was sunbathing in a deep sandy niche in a rocky and rugged shoreline, a young seagull left his group and inched slowly towards me, until he finally had a few pecks at my cap, held in my extended hand. There was I, naked and natural among the creatures of nature, being accepted as part of it all. This, is true naturism, being at one with nature.

Recently I experienced an unforgettable, and to me, a truly spiritual experience at Rotota's Sun Club. I was staying there with an old and valued friend from Tauranga, in his caravan. We had occupied ourselves for some days, slashing and clearing a number of their beautiful bush walks. I was told of a large stand of tall black pongas on the "Trig Hill". So one day I went on my own to climb from the lake side of this hill to its summit, but because of a physical problem and slippery pine needles underfoot, I was unable to manage it.

A day or two later a twelve year old boy who was there with parents, offered to show me a better track to climb, so with parental approval we set off and this time, we "conquered the heights".

To me, the groves of pongas (tree ferns) were almost unbelievable; it made my difficult climb so worthwhile. Dozens of tall stately pongas vied with each other to touch the sky; a true cathedral of nature, overlooking the lake below. Plentiful fantails, flitting so low as to almost be touched. No sound of other human life there then, just nature created so beautifully by non-human hands. Yet we humans are a part of this creativity and can draw breath of freedom from its source.

Later, I was able to return to this place again and yet again. Yes, when 'clothes-free' freedom helps one to "belong" in such inspiring places, to draw sustenance from the spiritual feeling - emanating from such peace and tranquillity of it all, I know that my true calling is "Naturist".

Over my past nine years operating the N.Z.N.F. Supporter Group, I have invited many to share the freedom of "clothes-free" living, whenever possible within their own homes, and also when away from home in any suitable location.

Try it, uncommitted reader, and surprise yourself in its invigorating freedom and beauty.

When you shed your clothes and your inhibitions, whether you are "nudist" or "naturist", the pleasure is all yours.

by John Trotter

It's amazing how a group of friendly nudists can enjoy themselves, even if the weather is unkind. Actually, "unkind" is hardly the word to describe the weather on that Friday evening in February when the Wellington Free Beach Group converged on the old farm house, now converted into a Department of Conservation hut and called Waikuku Lodge.

To give our daughter a well-earned rest, Peggy and I had offered to take her two little girls for a nudist holiday with the Wellington Free Beach Group. With the car loaded with camping gear, we drove over the Rimutaka Range and into rain. From Martinborough (in the south-eastern corner of the North Island), we headed south past Ruakokopatuna, then along the narrow, winding Haurangi Road. This apology for a road which was flanked on one side by steep hillside and on the other by a rather horrendous drop into the river far below, finally brought us within sight of the Lodge. A Fred Bear flag beside the gate told us we were at the right place. But we weren't there yet! The steep, slippery, rutted "driveway" from the road to the Lodge was quite a challenge. Put her into gear, keep her moving, and hope for the best! Lady Luck got us to the top on the first attempt, but we still had to manoeuvre the car through a sea of mud to get to the shelter of the back porch for unloading.

All thoughts we might have had about camping in our tents with our two little grandchildren were soon dismissed when we saw how wet and steep the ground was, and we took no persuading to settle for the more civilised comfort of one of the bunk rooms.

As you might have gathered so far, the surroundings and weather seemed hardly conducive to an idyllic naturist holiday, especially with two young grandchildren to keep entertained. But there was no going back. We would just have to make the best of it.

Waikuku Lodge is very well equipped for its purpose, with a large kitchen, dining room with fireplace, and several other rooms - plenty of space for the thirty-odd people who joined us during weekend. There were several showers, not four-star standard, but with plenty of hot water.

The Wellington Free Beach Group makes
the most of a wet three-day
Waitangi Weekend at Waikuku

- Story and photos by Doug Ball -

The bunk rooms had two layers of "Maori bunks" with mattresses, reminiscent of the Tararua tramping huts I used to frequent in my younger days.

Peggy and I had just settled down in the dining room with our two little girls, when our first stroke of luck appeared to cries of "Here's Uncle Barry!" It transpired that Barry, who is godfather to Mary and Sarah, had been a Free Beach member for several years.

He knew that we were members, but we had no idea that he was one also. His unexpected arrival was a very pleasant surprise to us all, and during the weekend he not only helped to entertain the girls, but also accompanied me on a daily long runs over the hills.

The second piece of luck, was the sunshine that broke through on Saturday, allowing everyone to get outside and explore the Lodge environs. Everything looked much brighter.

Photo: Doug Ball

Some opted for sunbathing, others for a game of badminton on the lawn. Trampers went tramping, and runners went running. The children played in the creek and built a fort in the trees. This was the life!

Waikuku is a good place for a relaxing holiday far from the stresses of everyday life. It lies in a sheltered valley with easy access to the Haurangi State Forest Park. There are plenty of roads and tracks - popular with adventurous mountain bike riders - which can, if you have the time, take you all the way over to Palliser Bay near the Putangirua Pinnacles, a distance of about 20 kilometres.

Because it is fairly remote from populated areas, the park is relatively deserted, and so is well suited to nude tramping or running. A popular destination for many of our group was Sutherland Hut, which can be reached either by a hilly track through diverse native bush, or by a gently graded four-wheel-drive road down a long valley. On the Sunday several keen trampers did the round trip over the hills and back up the road. On our runs, Barry and I took the more gentle route via the road, stopping by at the hut for a rest and to empty river gravel from our shoes. We ran in "club uniform," enjoying the sensations of sun and wind on our bodies. Running naked gives one a feeling of freedom and a sense of belonging in the natural environment. However, we did allow ourselves the luxury of running shoes, both for comfort and to reduce the risk of injury to our feet. The occasional trampers we passed on our way did not seem to mind our nakedness, although I suspect they thought we were a little mad to be running.

Unfortunately, except for the few hours of sunshine on Saturday, the weather continued to be fairly inclement all weekend, but, apart from persuading most of us to keep our clothes on and spend a lot of time indoors, it did not dampen the enthusiasm of the party. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the Waikuku experience. Good company, good food, a warm fire in the lodge, and plenty of friendly banter, added up to a memorable weekend. The Wellington Free Beach Group proved that sunshine is not an essential ingredient for an enjoyable, relaxing, nudist holiday.

Footnote: In case any readers are inspired to experience the pleasure of naked running in the hills, please remember that basic safety precautions should always be taken. On our runs Barry and I took turns to carry a light pack containing polypropylene clothing and parkas in case the weather turned cold.

Photos: Doug Ball   

Just 15 kilometres from the city centre of Darwin in the tropical north of Australia is a lovely nudist beach which is totally legal. Access to the beach from the car park is a very easy 5 minute walk up the textile beach to the well signposted nudist area.

At Casuarina beach the NT Conservation Commission has provided a good sealed car park and on the track to the beach are toilets and an outdoor shower.

Casuarina beach is approximately 3kms long and depending on the tides can be up to 800 metres wide. Here in the Northern Territory tidal movement can be as much as 7 metres between high and low tide.

Very large shady trees overhang the beach and up until midday provide welcome shade. As the beach faces west, the morning is the best time to be there.

At dusk a lot of people go down to the beach for a picnic tea to watch the fantastic sunsets we have here in the territory.

To get to Casuarina follow the Stuart Highway and turn left onto Bagot Road. Follow Bagot Road through to where it becomes Trower Road and follow Trower Road to the Casuarina Coastal Reserve. The free beach is very well signposted.

Darwin has two seasons, December to March is the wet season with temperatures ranging from 21°C overnight to 36°C during the day with very high humidity and thunderstorms with fantastic lightning shows most evenings. The dry season from March brings glorious days and pleasant evenings with temperatures from 16°C nightly to 32°C during the day.

During the months between October and May, it is unavoidable to enter the water due to the presence of Box Jellyfish whose tentacles contain a toxin which can be fatal.

Crocodiles are also in abundance in the rivers throughout the NT. We have the estuarine crocodile which is predominately a salt water animal, but is also at home in freshwater. It is a very dangerous animal which can grow up to 6 metres long. There is also the Johnson River or freshwater crocodile which is generally regarded as harmless and - it grows to approximately 3 metres.

60kms out of Darwin on the Stuart Highway is a crocodile farm where you can view the crocodiles close up and also watch them being fed.

The dry season is tourist season and most of the motels and caravan parks are nearly always full with a lot of interstate visitors coming up from the southern Australian states to escape their winter.

Darwin is very steeped in Australian history having been bombed by the Japanese in World War 2 and nearly wiped out by Cyclone Tracy on Christmas morning 1974. All around Darwin are remnants of the defence of Darwin by troops during the war. At East Point are the turrets from the fifteen inch guns and the shore batteries.

Darwin has an international airport and is served by six international carriers which make it a good starting point to see the Northern Territory and the rest of Australia.

There is also a new private naturist recreational retreat opening up in Easter '95 about an hour's drive south of Darwin, positioned in a natural bush setting that is ideal for naturist families. Features already include: large in-ground pool, spacious undercover BBQ areas, toilets, showers and more. Enquiries please phone (089) 886185.

The Northern Territory is a great location to visit during the dry season so if you never, never go, you'll never, never know!

Anyone who would like to contact the author regarding the Northern Territory can do so at P0 Box 37727 Winnellie NT 0820 Australia.

by Tony Hodskiss

l00kms from Darwin on the Arnhem Highway is the Jumping Crocodile Cruise on the Adelaide River where from the comfort of an air conditioned boat you can watch crocodiles in the wild.

Brent Thomson (NZNF President) and myself have been actively campaigning for membership increases to your clubs by appearing as guests on local radio stations.

Our objective was:

• To be nude and comfortable with one's friends and surroundings
• To progress nudism forever forward
• To increase membership through whatever medium available
• To be understanding and develop good listening skills
• To portray all clubs and all activities in the most positive way.

The first station visited was Radio Pacific whose listening audience is in the age bracket 35 to 80+. We spoke about nudism - what it feels like to have that option - and then we spoke to a man about a most common fear, erections.

Brent was able to assure the man that that part of the anatomy did not behave in an uncontrollable way in most cases and gave him guidelines on what to do in the unlikely event that it did. The second caller was woman whose fears (in this day and age with so much rape and violence to women) centred on what would happen if she were "dragged into the bushes'

We were able to assure her that this event was totally unlikely due to the tolerant and friendly attitude of members and the selective process by which the membership is recruited.

We felt that the interview went well, with an invitation given to come back in a few weeks time. We received about ten replies following the interview of which about a third have been referred on to Waikato, Christchurch and other clubs around the country.

The second interview was with 97FM on their breakfast show. We were to be at the studio by 7am and conduct the interview naked (nude). There were several reasons for this, the main one being to demonstrate we were comfortable about nudity and could conduct ourselves in the same carefree manner without clothes on as with. Strangely enough I felt 'safe' in the studio. It was as though I had taken the club to the studio so knew I was safe and therefore comfortable in my surroundings. Kevin Black and the team of 97FM were in the studio and remained clothed the whole time (even though on air he made out they were nude). Neither Brent nor I had a problem with that and the two hours that we were there was very enjoyable. The listening audience that they target are aged from 25 to 55+. They have a huge listener-ship and the message of the availability of a nudist club in their area and the things to do were passed on in a happy and relaxed way. We received 20-25 replies, mostly from males in the Auckland area.

The third interview was with the teenagers of the club who expressed their views on what it was like being a teenager around naked people. Similar questions as those mentioned previously were asked by people who have never conceived of such an idea. The interview went very well and Carol and Stuart are to be commended on their bravery - sharing with the public a little bit of their private world. Interviews can be quite nerve-racking, far more nerve-racking than being nude with strangers. Warren, the DJ left with a totally different point of view and saw nudism as a lifestyle, a way of life. So the message is getting out there. The station targets 13 to 23 year olds. It will also be broadcast over the rest of the North and South Is through the station's network. (Calls in response to this interview are not available at time of printing).

Through these radio stations, I have been able to target all age groups from teenagers to the well-retired. Let us hope that the membership figures reflect in the number of enquiries. I have personally grown in deeper understanding of nudism through the interviews and have been given advice on handling certain subjects. The difference I found between the teenage interview and the adult ones was the different focus on similar topics. I found the teenage interview refreshing as it did not focus too strongly on the sexual aspects as the adults tended to. Rather the "lifestyle" of nudism was discussed in an enlightened and wholesome way. This is the type of message we need to relay to all enquirers as we are all ambassadors of nudism and need to meet the myths with compassionate understanding.

My other goal for this year is to speak to other clubs, such as Rotary, Jaycees or similar. If there are any members who belong to a club like this or who can put me in contact with one, please contact me by writing c/- NZ Naturist.

Nudism is Natural.

Delia Adams - Pro. NZNF

Penny & I are relatively new to the Movement have been members of ASC since early 1993. Our 16 year old son Michael is comfortable with our nudist involvement but (being at that sensitive age) has chosen at the moment anyway not to participate. I am self-employed as a computer tutor/support person.

We had seen a notice in a local paper advising a Family Open Day at AOHC in the November prior. Interestingly, it was my predecessor Peter Holt who was our contact and guide for the day.

I like to think my broad mission in the movement, similar to the American organisation's goal, is to promote, enhance and protect our social nudism practices in this country - New Zealand can play a unique part in the world scene with its great clean, green and natural potential. I have some ideas for the role of secretary.

I feel I can contribute by making information available to all the affiliate clubs to foster unity and, progressively, a more open and enlightened membership. A personal goal leading up to the turn of the century is to produce a NZ Nudist's Guide, the brief details of my thoughts on this is in ASC's December 1994 newsletter.

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What's in a name - Privacy Act 1993

In my capabilities presently as newsletter editor, club PRO and newly-elected Secretary NZNF I have set myself several objectives. One of these is to help the wide community understand and accept recreational social nudism as the wholesome, healthy and natural lifestyle we know it to be.

The task is not so daunting as it might first seem. Compared with prevailing social attitudes just a few decades ago, huge strides have already been made. In nudism's favour, people are generally a lot more tolerant of others' lifestyles. There is also a constant search for adequate relaxation to counter today's stressful business pace.

Bringing the issue into the public mind impinges to a degree on the privacy of individuals involved. It is doubtful that there is another lawful organisation in the country that wrings its hands so regularly trying to balance the paradox of openness with privacy! It's logical that a semi-secret organisation cannot realistically, successfully (convincingly!) promote its virtues. In short, we fool ourselves if we expect the wide community to embrace nudism seriously and with some enthusiasm while we persist in keeping aspects of it under wraps. As an example, there are clubs in which the committee members remain virtually anonymous, probably to many of their own members as well, by using abbreviated names on the letterhead.

The same people who don't need to hide inside clothes! Encouragingly, some clubs (notably WSC and AOHC) have recently demonstrated a much more enlightened approach.

As a further step in "bringing nudism out" I advocate the practice of using full names, where appropriate, in our newsletters. I hazard that "Peter" or (heaven forbid) "Peter M" are as good as meaningless to most readers let alone readers from other clubs. Hardly worth printing them and, frankly, so boring to read. But if I saw "Peter Moosberger" then suddenly I am recognised as a whole, real person. The way I see it, I am protected by the Privacy Act whether or not we use my full name in print or anything else. The fact is, we all are. The matter is aired now following a gentle reminder at the 5 March committee meeting that I had referred to a member couple by full name in the last newsletter.

So now you all know my preference. I'm all for standing up and being counted! Let's demonstrate to any knockers in the community we are committed, and then capitalise on the opportunity to educate them.

If any member is still anxious and would prefer his or her name not to appear in full in the newsletter, please let me know.

- Peter Moosberger

Photo: Doug Ball

By the time our club AGM came around month or two after joining I had been persuaded to produce the club newsletter and do my bit on committee. I also wear the PRO hat for ASC.

It was an honour as well as a surprise to be nominated/elected Secretary NZNF so early in my nudist career.

Photography International's editor Terry Barnett, has just released in black & white a book that features his favourite photographic subject - the art nude.

For many years Terry has been the Creative Director of a publishing company that produces magazines and specialty books, so he is no stranger to seeing his photography in print.

But this is the first time an entire book featuring photography taken purely for his pleasure and personal artistic satisfaction has been published. Surely the first of many.

His interest in the subject dates back a long way: "My uncle was a hairdresser and right from a young boy I was fascinated by a picture he had on his wall. I was intrigued by the nude form

- to me it portrayed uninhibited release and a feeling of complete freedom. As a photographer I have constantly strived to capture this on film.

"But it's elusive; I find art nude photography an almost unattainable art form offering me endless challenges that I'm constantly trying to master.

I love the variables presented by the human form; it offers an incredible variety of photo opportunities. By simply altering the position of a light source or making just a slight change in body position you can achieve totally different results'

All the photography in this 72 page book has been shot in black & white, which is Terry's preferred medium. He does shoot a lot of colour but this is mainly for commissioned commercial work or regular requirements for his company's own in-house publications.

Terry Barnett is a photographer, artist and graphic designer and the front cover of "Exposures" aptly portrays his talent and expertise; his camera is often just another tool for him just like his brush or pen.

The book represents his personal work over a ten year period and studying it page by page one can see the changes and maturing that has occurred over the time.

And what of the future - what's next? His colour work of the nude is often more complex where he likes to explore multiple exposure techniques and combined art/photography styles. Although this technique is used more for commercial purposes maybe there could be a colour publication some time in the future.

"EXPOSURES" offers variations to a given theme and will be enjoyed by those who appreciate art photography. It will also be a constant source of inspiration to others in their quest to create art nude images.

(Reprinted by kind permission of Photography International).

EXPOSURES

the art of the nude

from the camera of
Terry Barnett

Photo: Terry Barnett

The New Manawatu Outdoor
Leisure Club

Article and photos by Doug Ball

The Palmerston North Sun Club was formed in 1970 by a small group of naturists who met on temporary grounds in Pohangina. The club became an Incorporated Society in 1971 and purchased the present club grounds at Lake Road, Orua Downs. The site is 37 km from Palmerston North and is called 'Lake Downs'. It is situated in a warm spot quite near to the West Coast, and covers 7.5 ha of what was originally farmland.

Thanks to the continuous efforts of club members, 'Lake Downs' now boasts a fine modern clubhouse, a filtered 20m swimming pool, and two excellent miniten courts, as well as many other facilities including two modern ablution blocks, children's playground, a 9 hole putting green, and a permanent barbecue. There are 36 powered caravan sites, 3 caravans for hire, and plenty of room for tents. Planting of trees, shrubs and flower gardens has greatly enhanced the environment.

Over recent years there has been considerable media publicity warning of the harmful effects of too much sunshine on the skin. Regardless of one's opinion of this publicity, it has to be recognised that it has had a profound effect on public opinion. People are questioning the wisdom of sunbathing, and the Committee felt that the word 'sun' in the Club's name might be a deterrent to prospective members.

There has also been a move by the executive of the New Zealand Nudist Federation to promote greater awareness of skin-cancer prevention, and to push the benefits of clothes-free recreation. So the old name 'Palmerston Sun Club' has become history. By a large majority, members at the last Annual General Meeting voted for the new name, 'Manawatu Outdoor Leisure Club Incorporated'.

Photos: Doug Ball

With newly-painted signs at the gate, MOLC welcomed a large contingent from the Wellington Sun Club to an inter-club sports and social rally from 21 to 23 January, (Wellington's Anniversary Weekend). The weather was perfect, in fact, if we had not had the pool to cool off in, it would have been a trifle hot. As it was, many took advantage of the wide, shady clubhouse verandahs to shelter from the sun between bouts of sporting activity.

The idea of a Mini-Rally began thirteen years ago when the Wellington Sun Club invited nudists from other clubs in the lower North Island to join them for a weekend of friendly sports and socialising. This was so successful that it has become a tradition, with the venue alternating between Wellington and Palmerston North.

At Mini-Rallies the emphasis is on participation by all, and there are games for novices as well as for experts. On Saturday and Sunday we played miniten, tenniquoits, petanque and golf. On Monday there was inter-club volleyball and cricket. No recording of scores, no trophies, and no losers. Everyone had a great time, with many people trying sports like petanque for the first time.

The social side was not highly organised, but none-the-less enjoyable. On Saturday evening a communal barbecue started festivities which went on into the wee hours of the morning. Music, singing, dancing, or simply yarning with friends over a beer, whiled away a lovely warm evening. The pool came in handy for cooling off after dancing.

On Sunday evening our Manawatu resident chef turned on a really excellent meal (with a lot of help from his friends), which was the prelude to another evening of fun in the clubhouse. During a game of housie, Geraldine, of Wellington, was so intent on filling her two cards, that she didn't notice for quite a while that one card was full. Luckily for her, no-one else had a full house before she finally twigged!

When everyone finally set off homeward on Monday afternoon, we all had very pleasant memories of Manawatu Outdoor Leisure Club. The Mini-Rally was a fine example of what club nudism can offer. A most enjoyable, safe, happy holiday for all the family, in beautiful surroundings, with the finest bunch of people you could hope to find anywhere. Thank-you Manawatu, you have christened your new name in fine style.

After hearing so much about this remarkable club which is located between Rotorua and Taupo, Jocelyn and I decided to see it for ourselves.

We had heard also of the warm welcome you get from the proud members and the unique features of the grounds, but we were in for a treat. Accompanied by our friends Truus and Johan, who had been visitors there before, we set forth and they proved to be excellent guides for us. They had found to their delight that each time they go there they make new discoveries.

The four of us took canoes with which to explore Lake Ohukuri which laps one edge of the club grounds. The lake is crystal clear, very scenic and a joy to canoe on.

The day after arriving, we set forth by canoe heading past Orakei Karako; the well known thermal area of the region. It was a lovely day and we were thrilled with the amazing scenery, colourful terraces, bubbling pools and rumbling steam holes all along the banks providing a unique setting for our days outing.

Further on, the locals have placed an old cast iron bath on a flat area beside the lake. It is fitted with two pipes, one from the hot stream flowing above it and one to add cold water. It felt too hot for me but Truus climbed in and said it was 'choice'.

Canoeing on further along the lake, we stopped again for lunch and noted the water skiers watching us.

The 'boaties' seem to accept the situation that you will see nude people on or around the lake but pity the poor water skier who should fall off as they go past as they don't seem to be looking the right way.

After lunch we headed back to the club, climbed the hill to our tents, grabbed some towels and headed off to a hot pool to soothe our tired arm muscles.

The club has thermal streams running through the grounds and the members have sandbagged some areas to create natural spa pools. Night time in the pools is magic. Being well away from the city lights, the stars put on a dazzling display. But to make sure that you are really captivated, there are glow worms putting on a light show of their own around the edges of the pools.

Next morning we packed a breakfast and paddles around the shore to a hot water stream. It runs into the lake and while you are swimming you can adjust the heat you want by moving around in the water. Watch out though as it can be very hot where it is coming up from the bottom.

Soon after our hot water swim, Truus and Johan took us to see one of the highlights of our visit. Landing at the outlet of another hot stream running through the club grounds, we start wading and swimming upstream. The water is delightfully warm so no clothes are needed here. You have to squeeze between narrow but smooth gaps in the rocks in places but when you arrive at you destination it is all worthwhile. There is a hot waterfall dropping about four or five metres and to sit under it and feel the water pounding on your back and shoulders is absolute bliss.

All to soon it seemed that our visit

had to end. We have made plans to return again soon to this unique setting. There is much to explore and a wonderful social atmosphere exists at this delightful club.

Rotota is an extraordinary place and it is reserved for nudists. Aren't we lucky.

by Graham Hall

(Editors note: Canoes are available for hire at the club).

NZ N.U.D.V.A.N. Club Inc.

We became fully fledged members at the 37th AGM of the NZNF Inc. held at Christchurch during January 1995. Many thanks for your vote of confidence to those who supported us. We had eight members on the ground which was no mean effort from our small club considering all had come from the North Island.

Who are we? We are! Nudists United Driving Vans Anywhere Naturally. We are the first mobile nudist club in New Zealand. There are similar clubs in England and America who have the same basic objectives as our club. The club in England is the biggest nudist club in England, and we aspire to achieve a similar status in New Zealand.

We screen our prospective members as most sun clubs do and our members are forever on probation as are sun club members.

We are not a landed club so do not have grounds as such. We hold rallies, hot pool swims at Rotota (see photo) and pot-luck-dinner at various locations. Sun club members are welcome to attend these activities.

We hope to be able to set-up NUDVAN Pop Stops (Park over places) through-out New Zealand that members travelling by motor home, caravan or just plain tenting will be able to avail themselves of.

Our aims are to enjoy nudism and travel the country spreading the benefits of nudism and the natural life. We hope to visit clubs through-out the country enjoying the friendship of the members and assisting with any activities we may come across. Clubs we visit will benefit financially by our paying of visitors fees.

The NUDVAN club was formed on 25 July 1992 at a pot-luck-tea before a swim at Fernlands Hot Pools in Tauranga. Those present had been discussing the practicalities of a mobile club for some time and felt that the formation of such a club would benefit ourselves and expand the bounds of the nudist movement as a whole to the benefit of all nudists. All of the founding members were sun club members and still retain membership of various sun clubs.

Now that we are fully affiliated with the NZNF we intend advertising our club for the betterment of the movement. We hope to attract like minded people who travel but may not wish to join a landed club, along with ex nudist club members who for various reasons have left the movement.

(continued...)

We have two overnight Pop Stops at Tauranga, one at Auckland, one on the Thames Coast and one in the pipeline at Taupo. For more information on Pop Stops please contact our secretary.

We have held nine rallies since our formation. If you enjoy good company and want to meet friendly people drop us a line. Now that we are affiliated we welcome enquiries from prospective members.

WELLINGTON SUN CLUB

Preparations for the '95/96 rally are now gathering pace. The grounds are receiving a spruce up, the main program has been fixed, though there will undoubtedly be extras added as we go and the rally team is taking shape. We need more hands to fill some important positions but we're getting there. The prime volleyball court has already been marked out on the main lawn and will be reseeded with some hard-wearing grass by Steve.

The summer has been a cracker in Wellington and this has undoubtedly helped swell the numbers of prospective members who have visited the grounds.

Wellingtonians have been prompted to remember us by a series of adverts in the free paper which is circulated throughout the greater Wellington area. Each advert has varied and some weeks more than one has been used to great effect.

The major pine tree felling project continues. A commercial mulcher was brought on site to dispose of some of the greenery, but the clutch burnt out at the end of the day! More overgrown and potentially dangerous trees will be felled around Easter, necessitating the moving of some caravans.

The outdoor sports was held over a very hot weekend recently and pleasingly more people turned up than last year.

ROTOTA SUN CLUB

Thank you to all our visitors who made it another great summer at Rotota. The raft in the lake is still being used by swimmers and the odd water skier and it has now hatched a little one. Thanks to 'Gypsy' who found another raft caught in weeds upstream.

New Year's eve was busy with about 140 people attending Waitangi weekend and about 120 for Easter. Lots of younger children were racing around over Easter, chasing a treasure trail left by the Easter bunny. Most of our bunnies have become D.I.Y. rabbit dinner kits.

The stream is cooling down with heavy rains and the approach of winter. A recent working bee converted about 20 firewood trees into ten tandem trailer loads of slabs, then through a splitter into firewood. All this to keep YOU, our visitors warm and hot-showered over the winter months.

Thanks also to members and visitors who shared their resources, by inviting others to join them for BBQ's, liquid refreshments, taking people water skiing or boating generally. It's this friendliness that helps make Rotota the great place it is!

HAWKES BAY SUN CLUB'S SUMMER

Through the local TV tabloid, the Napier City Council offered free advertising for "your group's event" if it was to be held during the period of their "Sun-smart Summer Festival." What a good idea. All we had to do to get the council to do our 'open day' advertising was call it something! Well, what would you do?

Initially, we thought it an intriguing idea to hold a "Fashion Parade for Naturists" as a way of demonstrating our commitment to political correctness. We were encouraged with a donation of 2½ litres of Cancer Society sunscreen and some Sun-smart tee–shirts from the Health Sponsorship Council.

The Fashion Parade idea, however, soon transformed itself into a Wearable Art competition. An "event" more likely to appeal to the general punter we thought. All we had to do was put up credible prize money and it would all happen.

So we did - $400. And it happened indoors, due to rain.

But we had about 100 visitors on the day, all squeezed into our hall. Of the half dozen performances intended, the weather permitted only two. The Wearable Art competition and a Rock 'n Roll demonstration. Our compère Neil, had his work cut out, but gamely kept pace with the afternoon's entertainment.

The body painters, Neville & Margaret from Palmerston North, found a spot to decorate a few backs, among the craft stalls with massages going on all around. The sausage sizzle had to be abandoned early, beaten only by Mr Whippy. It seems gentle, persistent drizzle whets no appetites for that white stuff in cones.

With the drought breaking rain allowing only about 20% of the events to proceed and limiting the people expected, the day was considered quite successful. But we still wonder if we'd have reached the 500 people indicated if it had been fine ... Well, we'll never know.

(continued...)

Just three weeks later though, the Hawkes Bay weather set us up for a hot time for the wonderful Variety Club Bash. They certainly enjoyed themselves during the fun stopover on our grounds from around 3pm on Monday March 6th. The sight of forty or so exotic and crazy vehicles, with crews of perhaps 150 was outdone only by the sight of all the cameras pointing out of the window of a fire engine when Margaret dropped her towel while trying to get her own picture, near the gate.

No one though, was able to persuade celebrity Lana Cockroft to join any of the substantial number of visitors who tried out the pool, after a hot day's drive from Rotorua. However, a party of San Francisco Cops, resplendent with badges and batons arrived to case the joint as we were about to get into our barbecue tea. More pictures all round with Margaret ... sans towel.

On St Patrick's Day we hope to christen the spa pool.

John Lowe

NATURIST WALKERS:

We are a clothing-optional group comprising Canterbury Free Beach and Sun Club members and others who like to get out and about. It's been a wonderful autumn season when every outing has given us an opportunity for skinny-dipping or clothes-free recreation. Checking the calendar, I see that since I last wrote we have been to beaches at Taylor's Mistake & Hobson's Bay, Waikuku, Quail Island, Woodend, Birdling's Flat and Tumbledown Bay. (See photos)

Our reconnaissance trip to the Waimakariri River was very pleasant. There was no-one else around. We explored the area and picnicked au naturel, enjoying the warmth and the silence broken only by the gentle sounds of the river flowing nearby.

The next week was down as a reconnaissance trip to Birdling's Flat.

"Reconnaissance" means we are exploring the district and checking it out for future reference. Birdling's Flat is a pebbly beach, famous for gemstones and huge spectacular breakers, but due to the direction of the wind on that day, the breakers were a flop. So we went on to Tumbledown Bay - an inspiration, as we had the whole place to ourselves. Swimming, lounging about, picnicking, philosophic discussion, back chat and doing the 'Times' crossword: these have all been regular features of our very companionable outings.

We have taken to playing Petanque on the beach at low tide and had fun taking photos at Tumbledown Bay. At Woodend beach we were unexpectedly joined by a family of seven who appeared through the dunes. To our surprise, they turned out to be of similar persuasion - clothing optional - so we invited them to join us in a game of Petanque, which went off very well. Great P.R.!

A holiday weekend at Onuku Farm Hostel near Akaroa is on the agenda for mid-May, plus a pot luck get-together later in the month to pool our ideas and make plans for next season.

Day-time walks and spa-sauna evenings will be a feature of the winter months. Lots to look forward to!

Photos: Steve Wilkinson

GEYSERLAND LEISURE PARK TRUST

Formerly known as "Hot Springs Purchasing Trust" it is about to make a first distribution of funds to its shareholders (beneficiaries). All eligible members have been mailed Confirming Data Forms and a letter of information on trust affairs. To date (early March 1995) one-third of members' replies only have been received, and one-third of mailing returned undelivered, the fate of the balance is undetermined.

The Trust seeks all clubs' assistance in publishing this urgent matter to their members requesting that shareholders contact it:

Geyserland Leisure Park Trust

4/23 Cleary Road,

Auckland 1006

Tel: 09 570-5165

NEWS FROM THE REGIONS

Gisborne Country Club have given up their company status and reverted to just being a country club. They are still located at 'Mecca' and will have more time to entertain visitors now that they don't have to spend all their waking hours filing returns to IRD.

Taranaki Naturist's have had most of their activities washed out in recent times due to heavy rainfall experienced in their area but are pressing on with their developments.

Canterbury members have recovered from their post Rally Trauma and hit the high spots with their Easter "Biker and Molls" party to celebrate their 40th Anniversary.

- Good show you lot -

Southern Sun and Health Club recently stuck their hands up to say they are alive and well in the deep south. They have been enjoying occasional activity days with Alpine Lakes Nudist Centre.

Bay of Plenty enjoyed an Easter Spit Roast and fun weekend and were successful in winning the Phoenix Shield - their annual encounter with Waikato Outdoor Soc.

AUCKLAND OUTDOOR HEALTH CLUB INC

For the past few months work has progressed steadily on the new cottage for our resident Caretakers. Ray and Jessica have now moved in after spending the summer months domiciled in the club bach.

All that remains now is for the surrounds to be landscaped and the concrete pathways to be installed.

Our long hot summer has continued through Easter which allowed our annual Miniten Championships to be completed without hitch. A very high standard of play was evident and it was particularly pleasing to see so many of the new members taking part this time.

A large group of members visited Rotota over Waitangi weekend and enjoyed the fine hospitality of the host club. Along with members from other clubs, quite a lot of boating activity took place and a number enjoyed the experience of water skiing behind Ken Mercers boat which he had towed all the way from Wellington for the weekend. Our thanks to Guy Couborough and his team at Rotota for a most pleasant weekend.

NEW ZEALAND NUDIST FEDERATION INC.

Somehow the gremlins invaded our previous report concerning the Officers of the Federations. Those persons alert minded, could have turned to the back of the magazine and noted that the current NZNF President is Brent Thomson and not Johnson as reported. There was also some confusion in the editor's mind as to who was the Trophy Secretary and I am happy to report that Tai Zygadlo from (MOLC) Manawatu Outdoor Leisure Centre has taken up this appointment.

A further appointment was that of John Trotter who has continued as the Supporter Members Secretary.

Both Brent and Delia (PRO) have had a busy few weeks conducting Radio interviews with various stations in the region. In many cases these items are broadcast nationwide so they provide a good spin off for all clubs throughout the country.

The article that was published late last year in the NZ Woman’s Weekly provided a good platform for recruitment from the Donna Fleming article.

YELLOW PAGES - AUCKLAND CLUBS ADVERTISE

We noted that the next edition of the Auckland telephone directory Yellow Pages would contain an entry for Auckland clubs' contact details.

Well, the 1995 directories are hot of the press and were delivered earlier this month.

You may recollect that we mentioned AOHC have in the past had their own Yellow Pages advertisement. Now a joint Auckland clubs advertisement appears (refer copy of the entry beneath). You, and we hope the wider community, will find the real thing on page 406 (first book) under Clubs - Chartered.

Letters to the Editor

Now that you are aware of the problems facing BIM I have come to the very hard and sad decision to no longer publish BIM.

I want to thank you for your years of support, some longer than others, I feel as if we are part of a family here at BIM and it is very difficult saying goodbye.

Most sincerely
Betty Goodwin
Editor/Owner
Bare In Mind

Editors note:

Sincere condolences are extended to Betty on the death of her husband Kenny. BIM has provided a valuable contact for nudism between USA and NZ and we are sorry to see it go.

Dear Editor,

I am a Supporter Member and recently (late February) spent a delightful visit to the W.O.S. grounds near Hamilton. Now I suffer from a movement disorder, which means my head and arms have a will of their own; and whenever I go into town someone is always sure to stare. Some days later I was discussing my visit with someone, when I realised that NOT ONCE at Matangi did anyone stare at my movements. That speaks volumes for the attitudes of naturists: a mountainous 'Thank you'

With renude enthusiasm!

John Anderson

Dear Editor

As always issue No. 151 was eagerly awaited and warmly received. Your publication always has interesting articles and photographs. The photographs of other naturist facilities and activities is always interesting and informative. We enjoyed your coverage of the growth of the naturist movement in New Zealand and the "Open Day" article. My only suggestion for a slight improvement would be to caption the pictures as it helps enjoy them even more when their location is known.

Although my wife and I haven't had the opportunity to visit New Zealand yet we are looking forward to the experience in the next year or so. It wouldn't be such a long trip as we are currently living in Manila, Philippines. In that regard, we would love to hear from any Naturist couples currently living in the Manila area. If there is sufficient response and interest, we are considering forming a local club. Letters can be sent to:

Manila Naturist

P.O. Box 4012, MCPO 1280

Makati, Metro Manila

Philippines.

Once again, congratulations on an excellent publication and please accept our subscription renewal.

Sincerely,
Walter & Karen

Dear Editor

This is the saddest letter I have had to write in my life and I hope you will understand, after you have read it.

'Bare in Mind' has been in publication for over 22 years, however for the last six or seven years it has been getting harder and harder to try and stay in the black each month due to fewer renewals and new subscribers. Because of that I decided to start work outside of BIM, so in 1989 I took a full time job and along with my husbands financial help we were able to continue publishing BIM even though we were still losing money each month.

When hard times hit any family one of the first things a person does to cut back expenses is cancel their newspaper and magazines subscriptions and that is understandable because I have had to do that myself over the past few years.

In the past few years we have had increases in postage and printing costs that have hurt the small business throughout the US and of course one of those small businesses has been BIM.

On January 13, 1995, my husband of 36-years Kenny, died of cancer, he was only 57. He had been on disability since September of '93, so from then until now it has been a struggle to try and publish BIM, what with the considerable decrease in his income it just became harder and harder to continue.

NEW ZEALAND CLUB DIRECTORY

The secretaries of these clubs will be pleased to hear from genuine inquirers. Please enclose return postage.

new zealand

naturist

No. 153 June 1995

The New Zealand Naturist is the Official Journal published quarterly by the New Zealand Nudist Federation Inc. Registered at the Chief Post Office Wellington as a magazine.

Editor:

Les Olsen

Business Manager:

Frank Murphy

This magazine is protected by copyright, no part of it may be reproduced. stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means electronic, mechanical, photographic, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of the editor.

In our desire to present different points of view we publish articles and letters which do not necessarily represent the opinion of the editor.

(Top)

AUSTRALIAN NUDIST CLUB DIRECTORY

All correspondence should be addressed to:

P.O. Box 2925,
AUCKLAND.
NEW ZEALAND

or

PO Box 101-187
North Shore Mail Centre
Auckland 1330

General inquiries concerning nudism in New Zealand, or overseas, should be addressed to the:-

New Zealand
Nudist Federation Incorporated
P.O. Box 1359. Wellington.
NEW ZEALAND

President: Brent Thomson
Auckland (09) 279-4751

Secretary: Peter Moosberger
PO Box 74 257 Market Road,
Auckland 1005
tel/fax: (09) 520-0796

Applications for membership of clubs should be made direct to the club secretary (see the Club Directory).

PHOTO CREDITS

Doug Ball - P1, P11, CENTRE, P15

P19, I B.C.

Graham Hall - P13, P14, P15

Graham Macgregor - P13A

Terry Barnett - P4, P8, P9, P10

Les Olsen - P21

Neville Watson - IBC

Peter Moosberger - FC

Steve Wilkinson - P19

DEADLINES FOR COPY

154 September 1995 - 25 June 1995

155 December 1995 - 1 October 1995

156 March 1996 - 30 January 1996

157 June 1996 - 20 April 1996