# 149 - May 1994 

Since breaking into print in a naturist magazine (see Letters, in this issue) I am emboldened to go further, opening a subject that I think, if discussed openly, might benefit naturists and naturism. The subject is Nudism and Sexuality. How do they relate to each other?

It has seemed to me that the naturist movement, at least in Australia and New Zealand, has been at pains to avoid the subject of sexuality, as if its members were asexual or at least less sexual than other people. I believe this to be an overreaction to the minders of others' morals and the ignorant whose view it is that naturists are quite the opposite, an overreaction prompted by fear of social disapproval. The truth, as is the case so often in human affairs, lies somewhere between. Naturists are no less sexual and probably no more so than non-naturists.

Naturists are perfectly normal in deriving pleasure from the sight of others' nakedness, and have the advantage over non-naturists that they can enjoy it more freely, but this is a far cry from voyeurism, defined in my Shorter Oxford Dictionary (1983 edition) as obtaining "sexual gratification from looking at the sexual behaviour or the sexual organs of others". I believe there is neither more nor less sexual gratification or behaviour among naturists than among the population at large, and certainly not other than in private.

The pleasure of public nakedness is deeper and more complex in its origins than sexual gratification, and I believe this is the unique attraction of naturism.

In publicly shedding our clothes we shed much more of a non-physical nature. We make ourselves vulnerable by stripping away the protection to our sensitivities, laying bare a great deal more of our essential selves, our real identities, than we would dare to do in other circumstances. This is an act of trust. As we must trust others, so they must trust us and we have a responsibility that we seize eagerly to be worthy of their trust.

With that in place our social relationship is much easier, relaxed and more pleasurable. There is no more need for pretence or vanity. The ability to simply be oneself, warts and all, and to be accepted thus, is as refreshing to the mind and soul as anything I know. My wife and I have found not only that the friendships established in this way are sustained, but that in meeting other naturists for the first time in circumstances where it is not practicable to be naked we are immediately at ease in the warmth of that implicit trust.

Though the potential for sexual relationships to evolve where people trust and care about each other must be greater than in other circumstances, we have yet to observe any behaviour in this direction among naturists. I hope that more or better sexual relationships do eventuate among them, for only a hypocrite or an imbecile can be against enriching sexual relationships, but no less do I respect naturists for their propriety in maintaining privacy where such developments are concerned.

Sadly there are people who seek the company of naturists for the sake of shallow sexual gratification which has no prerequisite of trust, care and respect. We feel angry at their breach of our trust, but we might well pity them for the humiliation they bring upon themselves. The difference in their behaviour may be subtle but it causes them to stand out among naturists and their resulting discomfort usually prompts them to depart.

Then there are the sneaky peepers, often seen among the sand hills above free beaches. These, I think, are the worst enemies of naturists, first because un-confronted they do not go away, and second because they are the reason frequently used by neighbouring residents for closing free beaches. Tedious though it may be, the best action is to pull on a swimsuit and confront them, which usually shames them into departure.

My last word is about what we call ourselves. While I have used it above, to me the name "naturist" connotes some untouched child of Eden, which comes nowhere near describing any naturist that I have met. Is this some semantic attempt to deceive the public at large into thinking we are purer, more innocent than others? If so it is shallow, naive, and deceives nobody. As with sexuality, we are no purer, no more innocent than anyone else, so let's abandon it and call ourselves what we are, nudists. At least "nudists" is defined in the Shorter Oxford: "An adherent of the cult of the nude" - exactly what we are. The word "naturist" fails to appear in my dictionary.

AUCKLAND

Although the journey upwards from Wellington to Auckland had been littered with numerous sections of road-works, there were relatively few areas of such activity on the road down to Wellington via the West Coast.

At first I covered up with the towel well before entering the slow speed zone around the road works, and uncovered when safely past. I did notice that one or two of the "STOP" "GO" sign operatives on this leg of the journey were young females, who in contrast to their male counterparts, sensibly carried out such duties whilst sitting comfortably on a chair.

No one seemed to notice me in my towel sarong. No cat-calls, no ribald shouts. After weaving through the third gang of road-scalpers I decided to dispense with the cover-up routine.

About a dozen or so kilometres further on I was calmly bumping over yet another rough section when, passing a road roller at close proximity, I suddenly noticed the driver to be young and quite definitely female. Panic stations! No towel covering my natural assets! Had she seen anything? I drove carefully on keeping one watchful eye on the rear vision mirror, the other on the workman ahead whilst trying to calm a distinctly erratic heartbeat and mopping up several litres of sweat.

The roller continued straight as a die. The young lass had probably:

(a) Seen something, but wasn't sure what.

(b) Seen everything and couldn't believe her luck.

(c) Seen everything, and was so busy laughing, had to concentrate very hard on steering straight.

(d) Not seen anything at all.

Having occasion to visit Auckland in February to attend the wedding of my youngest son I mulled over the pros and cons of air travel versus road, and opted to drive, in order to have transport available in and around that foreign metropolis, and I could then make a leisurely return, taking in some "Free beaches" en-route.

The northern weather I found to be considerably warmer and more humid than experienced down on the mainland, so after the wedding festivities I spent a pleasant afternoon in company with some Auckland freebeachers at Ladies Bay.

With a deadline of 1500 hours Friday for the ferry across the ditch, I had four and a half days in hand to wander the byways of Te-Ika-a-Maui at will. Eventually leaving the big A, I headed southwards in my Nipponese four-wheel-drive tin box, clothes gently steaming and bunching up in strategic areas.

I seemed to be surrounded by textiles wheeling along (probably just as uncomfortably) in their own tin cocoons seemingly hell-bent on getting somewhere faster than I desired to travel. I thought of the beaches and streams ahead, wanting to get there quickly and strip off. I said to myself "Wish I could drive home nude". My alter ego replied "but it's probably illegal, and anyway, people might object".

Surveying the inside of my motorised box, trying to assess the various angles from the eyes of passing motorists to my "naughty bits", I wondered how long it would take for someone to notice a naked motorist and complain to the police.

Watching every overtaking motorist with renewed interest, I tried to see as much of their lower regions as possible whilst still maintaining a straight course along my section of the highway. I couldn't see very much at all.

My diesel powered box finds it hard work to overtake anything at the speed they were intent on maintaining, so the chances of being seen through my passenger-side window were considerably reduced, and I was well shielded by my driver's side door when being overtaken.

The southbound traffic continued to be nerve-wracking until well on the way to Hamilton. I was ready for a caffeine break anyway, so pulled into a rest area and enjoyed a brew, whilst thinking over the pro's and con's of baring all.

TO

Came time to move on! I decided to risk it. Off came tee shirt and shorts, and sitting on a towel, with enough to spare as a cover-up should the need arise, I drove carefully onward.

Having been a defensive driver for thirty or more years - I found a lack of clothes reinforced the desire to avoid accidents. (Lurid visions of emergency personnel opening the door of a wrecked car - " 'ello, 'ello"... "Wot's this then?" ... "This joker's got no clothes on"!!!)

CHRISTCHURCH   -   NUDE

And thus I journeyed south from Horotiu, in my slightly crumpled birthday suit, following the coast as much as possible passing through hamlets with magical sounding names such as Raglan, Te Hutewai, Te Mata, Ruapuke, Moerangi, Aotea, Kawhia, Oparau, etc, etc.

Wearing nothing but a bush hat, carrying shorts in one hand and a snack in the other I walked along several beaches, tramped the Karamu Walkway, viewed the Bridal Veil Falls, scrambled over rocks betwixt Manu Bay reserve and Whale Bay reserve, lounged on Patea beach, drove and fossicked along Turakina beach and camped nude, in out-of-the way spots.

From Plimmerton I covered up, remaining clothed for the duration of the Cook Straight crossing and most of the weekend, which I spent in Picton.

On Monday I continued south, nude again, including a couple of rest stops, a little nervously through Belfast and the Johns Road detour south of the city. It was getting dark by this time and just a little chilly so clothes once again covered my wrinkly-suit.

Has anyone else done such a journey? Is it illegal? Who cares? I enjoyed myself.

Footnotes:

1. Not being entirely sure of legal ramifications, I thought it prudent to also cover up with a towel when passing through villages, and wore shorts when driving through towns along the route.

2. Silly me left my copy of free beach contact addresses at home, so my only meeting with North Island naturists was at Ladies Bay.

3. Yes! I will do it again.

Wishing you all happy motoring.

by Steve Wilkinson

I.N.F.

NEWS

40 Years International

Naturist Federation

Against all pessimism, the INF was able to celebrate its 40th anniversary in dignified and beautiful conditions at the three holiday centres, C.H.M. Montalivet, Euronat and La Jenny, from 21 to 24 August 1993.

On Saturday, 21st August, 1993, the mayor of Vendays-Montalivet, Mr David, held a reception for 120 naturists from many countries in the banquet room of the Vendays Municipality. In his welcoming speech, the mayor emphasised his municipality's link with the Montalivet naturist centre, especially stressing the excellent co-operation with the C.H.M. and also with the naturist holiday makers from the most diverse countries, who spend their holidays there. The deputy for the Gironde area, Mr Xavier Pintat, who was also present, cordially welcomed the naturists from 18 countries in the "Département" of the Gironde, wishing them a nice stay and successful Jubilee days.

Sports and culture events filled the Jubilee days in the three holiday centres (C.H.M. Montalivet, Euronat and La Jenny), the leaders of which had prepared the entire series of events with consummate skill, in cooperation with the INF, and then carried out their programme without a hitch.

The actual Jubilee Day, 23 August 1993, was celebrated at the very birthplace of the INF, at C.H.M. Montalivet's "Espace FNI", and at the column built to celebrate the INF's 20th anniversary. On this column, featuring a commemorative plaque for that anniversary, a second plaque was secured to celebrate the INF's 40th birthday. Bart Wijnberg and Karl Dressen, who unveiled the plaque, held Jubilee speeches in which they stressed above all the effectiveness of the INF's work up to then and the recent successes achieved.

Many of our friends, who had worked at and for the INF, had come to celebrate this Jubilee, and they attended the above-mentioned festivities: Christiane Lecocq, the widow of the still-remembered Albert Lecocq, the founder of C.H.M. Montalivet in 1950, as well as of the FFN, the Club du Soleil, SOCNAT and many other naturist organisations; Jacqueline Sarrou, the widow of the former INF President Gilbert Sarrou; our former INF president Erik Holm (1956-1964), our honorary president Dr Frans Mollaert (INF president from 1976 to 1980); the former Central Committee Members Pierre Deloire, Jess Jessen and Tom Operti, our former auditor Jaap Rijskijck and our archivist, Maurice Vreugde (who founded Belgium's first naturist club in 1929).

All events took place in an atmosphere of friendship and harmony. We wish to convey our special thanks to the organisers of the three holiday centres for their co-operation.

The Jubilee events at Montalivet also featured an exhibition in the C.H.M. building, where naturist pictures, documents and magazines were on show.

This initiative was set up and organised by our First Vice-President, Mr Karl Dressen. 64 display tables showed pictures from the naturist movement's earliest days (1908) up to the present day. There were publications and documents from 1893 to 1993. This event met with a big success, as evidenced by the entries in the "Livre d'Or".

On the last day of the official celebrations, Tuesday 24th August, many thanks were expressed. All speakers especially emphasized the atmosphere of harmony during the Jubilee as well as the INF's capacity to bring different nationalities closer together. Philippe Cardin, the President of the host federation, also stressed this point, referring to the FFN's annual congress held in Verdun in mid-September. The theme then was "Verdun - Capital of Peace and of Naturism". The guests and the federation delegates gave Bart Wijnberg and Karl Dressen presents commemorating the Jubilee. And so the official part of the celebrations ended amid friendly discussions.

by Karl Dressen

What's in a name? "Nominamus ut cognoscimus" expounded certain medieval philosophers, generally intending to signify that we put names to things according to our knowledge of them. At times, we may wish to dispute that theory, for example, what knowledge did we have of trees or water before we decided to call something a "tree" or "water"? At other times, however, the dictum is more apparent, for example, whenever we may feel tempted to call someone a "son of a bitch".

What is quite clear is the fact that people have always attributed a certain significance to names. Within nudist / naturist circles, there has always been an on-going debate about the terms "nudist" and "naturist". Some of our members have strong preferences for one, while others use the terms interchangeably. It is not my intention to enter that debate in this short article, although I may turn specifically to the issue in the future.

My present concern was raised at my work place during the summer. I was discussing nudism / naturism with my work colleagues. They all know of, and respect, my lifestyle. One colleague mentioned that, before she knew me, she didn't even know that the nudist / naturist lifestyle existed, and she had never heard of organisations such as a Sun Club or Free Beach Group.

I asked this colleague, who has two university degrees, what the terms "Sun Club" and "Free Beach Group" would have signified, if I hadn't just told her what they were all about. Her reply should give us food for thought.

In these days of covering up against the natural sun and preferring the supposedly-safer solariums, the term "Sun Club" conjured up visions of tanning clinics with rows of sun beds.

The term "Free Beach Group", my colleague conjectured, could refer to a group of citizens somewhere who wanted a private beach to be opened up to the community.

This is not too dissimilar to the question that was put to me when I was at the Cap d'Agde in France some years ago. I had just mentioned in a conversation that I was a member of New Zealand's Free Beach Group. "What?" came the reply, "Do you have to pay to go onto a beach in New Zealand?" That question came from someone who was just as totally nude as myself and who obviously shared the same lifestyle.

My point is this: if we hope to increase our numbers, we need to be identifiable. Our names should identify who we are and what we are.

I think that, unfortunately, our current names do not achieve this purpose in the 1990s. Maybe our names were more significant to the general public in the 1970s. It has now struck me, though, that our names no longer mean anything to people who do not already know who we are. The significance of the names "Sun Club" and "Free Beach Group" is only obvious to those of us who are already nudists / naturists.

Many nudists / naturists are strongly attached to the name of their club or group or whatever organisation they may happen to belong to. However, I am suggesting that, if we want to be more widely known than we are, it is time to devise new names.

What would be appropriate names? I am not sure, but I think that we can narrow our choices. We may well love the outdoors, but an "Outdoor Club" does not identify us as nudists / naturists. Countless other people love the outdoors also. Likewise, we may well aspire towards healthy lifestyles, but a "Health Club" is far too broad a term to identify us as nudists / naturists. In the same way, "Nature Club" fails to specify who we are.

In order to be accurate, a name or title should fulfil two main purposes; it should not only indicate our general attributes, but it should also specify our particular qualities. All three of the terms - Outdoor, Health and Nature - are too general.

They do not identify the particular fact that we are nudists / naturists.

There is a common theme throughout this article. There is one thing that does identify us: it is precisely our nudism / naturism. This is what identifies us. It specifies our lifestyle. It even unites us - this is exactly why we form groups or clubs or any other organisation. This is what gives us unified and collective purpose of action: to live the nudist / naturist lifestyle to which we have an innate right.

Therefore, I think that our names should unequivocally use the world "Naturist / Nudist" in our titles. People who have reasons for not wanting to be identified publicly as a nudist / naturist could retain their privacy by not publicising the fact that they belong to such an organisation.

I think that the big issue of identity also applies to our emblems. Take, for example, the Fred Bear emblem of the Free Beach Group. We love our Fred Bear, but what does he signify to others? It is quite clear to us that he signifies the Free Beach Group. But to the public he merely signifies a bear on a yellow flag. OK, he's a happy looking bear with a smile on his face and his hand is extended in a friendly greeting, but he's still just a bear on a yellow flag. He doesn't signify or identify us as nudists / naturists.

Does that mean that the Free Beach Group should discard Fred Bear? Not at all. We need to give him a logo: we need to write the title of our group around or under Fred Bear. But we need an appropriate title. I suggest that the "Free Beach Group" is not an appropriate name for our group.

There are a few thoughts that I offer for everyone's consideration. Maybe this could be the start of a discussion in which readers would like to participate: some may strongly disagree with my article, others may wish to come forward with suggestions for alternative names to our current titles.

HIBISCUS COAST SUN CLUB

Thanks to all those who came to our get together in February and to members and friends who came to our chicken spit.

Both events were well attended and the weather was fine and warm. A much better summer than last year. It was wonderful to meet up with old members and friends.

Club members have also enjoyed the hospitality of our neighbours. Anniversary Weekend at Auckland Outdoor Health, opening of ground extensions at South Auckland and of course the Annual Chinese Banquet at Auckland Sun. Thanks to all involved.

The hot pool nights are on again - last Saturday of each month. Why not come and give these a try.

Over the next year or so our grounds will be upgraded. Looking to the future we envision putting in full camping facilities. We will also be looking for a couple as caretakers, any enquiries to P.O. Box 128 Orewa or Jim phone 09-525 6067.

Last but not least some of our members have helped set up a "stragglers" sports team. Please take note of this up and coming name.

Best wishes from Kirikau.

ROTOTA CLUB NEWS

What a magnificent summer - or was it the qualities of our visitors that made it seem so? On busy weekends, visitors frequently outnumbered our own members. With all the space and different activities available there is (as yet) no overcrowding.

One of the highlights has been the visit by a world-famous puppeteer - and all the visitors to our disco that weekend. Children of all ages (yes, me too!) standing in a group with their mouths open, all listening to how the puppeteer worked. Have you ever seen a nude puppet show? No puppets, just the hands!

We have a new and warmer pool developed in the hot stream, not far from John and Shirley's caravan. The stream is cooling with the winter rains, but will warm up again for summer.

Photos: Graham McGregor

With the cutting and clearing of land around us, wildlife have moved into the remaining bush. Lots more birds (the bell-birds are beautiful), and the occasional pig coming onto the grounds. Patrick shot a corker-porker not far from his caravan! Don't rush down/up with your rifle, though. There is no shooting with other people on the grounds, and no shooting by (or of) visitors!

Thanks to all our visitors supporting Rotota over summer. We may be clothed, but never closed over winter. Come and enjoy some of the fine winter weather with us at Rotota.

Graham

AUCKLAND SUN CLUB

As our regular writer, is very busy with visitors from overseas. I shall try to give you some news about what is happening in our club. We are still very much alive.

At Christmas we had quite a few campers, and the new sauna was well used, also the spa pool. Also we had a fair amount of new members over the last few months.

Peter represented us in Palmerston North as our delegate. I hear he and his wife had a great time there, with another couple from our club. We could not make it this year, but are trying to make Christchurch.

Last weekend we were hosted by South Auckland, again we had a lovely time. They are hospitable nudists. But most of us are.

On Sunday the 13th we are having our annual Chinese barbecue. Let's hope the weather is fine. The pool was well used this year, Jeff is doing a great job keeping it sparkling.

SOUTH CANTERBURY SUN CLUB

On 29th and 30th January our club had a very successful 21st reunion. This week leading up to this seemed to do nothing but rain, but on the Thursday sunshine came through. Frantically the lawns were mowed and because of the hard work of our few members, everything looked great.

Friday evening saw showers but for the folk that had started to arrive it didn't deter them from a few games of petanque on into the darkness.

Saturday dawned to drizzle. Through the day caravans and campers arrived. Two couples even braved tents.

Wine and cheese was served about 3pm. It was a time to chat and catch up. Old photographs going back to the club's beginnings were viewed with great interest.

Some of the men came to the fore to cook the B.B.Q. With every type of salad imaginable and a huge stock pot full of new potatoes, fifty one people sat down to enjoy it.

The cake was cut by Bernie who has been with the club since its beginning. A speech was given by Ian our President and replied to by Joyce the South Island Vice President for the N.Z.N.F.

Into the evening we went. We danced and sang until about 1 am on Sunday morning. Murray from Alpine Lakes cannot go without mention. He is the life of a party. With guitar in hand and his infectious ways had everyone going.

On Sunday the weather couldn't have been better for those who stayed on. Ian had planned a trip up to the Orari Station to look around the historical old Tripp family homestead and gardens. Bernie serenaded us in the distance on his trumpet. We all meandered around the beautiful gardens with a wonderful sense of kinship that sun-clubbers seem to have.

After lunch some folk stayed on to lay around the pool and soak up the sun.

Reluctantly everyone had to eventually leave for different destinations.

To all those who attended - and some travelled great distances, "Thank you!"

We really appreciated your support and sincerely hope that we see you on our grounds again soon.

N.Z. NUDIST FEDERATION INC.

At the Annual NZNF Rally held at Palmerston North Sun Club Inc. the following persons were elected to office of the Federation.

President - Les Olsen - Auckland Outdoor, N.I.V.P. - Stan Gartner - Waikato Outdoor, S.I.V.P. - Joyce Mullen - The Orchard, Secretary - Peter Holt - Auckland Outdoor, Treasurer - Ian Miller - South Auckland, Trophy Secretary - Kay Burrows  - Canterbury Sun Club.

Magazine Editor - Graeme Brown - Auckland Outdoor, Business Manager - Frank Murphy - Auckland Outdoor.

During the past year there has been an upturn in membership in most of the clubs throughout the country. Although the Southern Sun Club at Invercargill has been in hibernation for a few years, we have learnt that they are in good heart and occasionally venture out to take part in activities with The Orchard and Alpine Lakes clubs.

The recent tour by nudists from Australia was indeed a first and Les and Jan Hotchkin and Doug and Peggy Ball are to be commended for their efforts in organising this venture. The clubs visited by this group surely benefited from their attendance and I feel sure that the visitors had an enjoyable and hospitable time during their holiday here.

AUCKLAND OUTDOOR HEALTH CLUB

With the continuing brilliant fine weather being experienced in the Auckland region this summer, activities have continued week by week to bring our sports and social calendar to an end.

Highlights have been our Anniversary Weekend of "Mad Sports" and top team, veterans miniten competition, swim sports, club miniten, petanque and golf champs.

These above activities have been accompanied with a variety of social events which have been enjoyed by many members.

Our Oranui designed chicken spit which cooks fifty "chooks" at a time is really great and the deep fried chipped potatoes cooked in the special designed "fryer" are a real treat.

Our annual mid winter Xmas Party is in preparation and will be held on 18 June 1994.

We have had a wealth of new members join us during the summer and we wish them many years of happy sunning at the club.

During the recent National Rally business meeting it became apparent that many Club members, and especially Club officers, do not know much if anything about the Trust. This article explains it all.

It began in January 1945, when Percy Cousins, the founder of organised nudism in New Zealand, wrote an article for the English Health & Efficiency magazine. The final paragraph advised that the Editor was at liberty to pass on his name and address to other interested readers in New Zealand. From the tiny acorn grows the mature oak, and from that small beginning in 1945, has grown the movement as we know it today.

During the latter half of Perc's life a weak heart affected his activities to an extent beyond his liking; he had always been an active person: he missed attending only one Rally - at Wanganui in 1961. On doctor's orders he was in bed having a complete rest.

To quote his own words, his old heart just wouldn't stand any more.

It was at this Rally, when, at the suggestion of the National Executive meeting, the members present set up the Trust in his name as a permanent memorial to what he had done for the nudist movement, not only in New Zealand, but also in building up goodwill with other national associations overseas. From this base the Trust has grown to be a respected organization within the movement, legally established and run.

The Trust Deed sets out the objectives of the Trust and gives to the trustees very wide powers. The general policy of the present trustees is to help nudism in New Zealand in any way possible. This is usually achieved by way of loans to clubs for all sorts of purposes - buying land, erecting buildings, sealing games courts, improvements to club grounds, preparing for Rallies etc. Sometimes outright grants are made, such as twice to the NZNF for promotion work, assisting with travel costs for an NYC delegate to attend an NZNF seminar, legal costs to help a club avoid repercussions over a court case. One suggestion when the trust was established, was to assist youth members to visit Australian Clubs.

The interest rate on loans is always lower than the outside mortgage rate. The present policy is to set this at ²/₃ the outside rate: currently 5%.

Photo: Doug Cousins

In addition, the trustees undertook a project which included preparing photos, writing, printing and distributing a national brochure. This valuable pamphlet is designed to help win over the new enquirer, and the trustees would like to see more clubs using these, especially now that they are free to all clubs.

The NZNF appoints the trustees. At present they include Percy's son, Doug, and two other Wellington Club members, both of whom have served on their club committees; including terms as presidents.

When trustees were properly appointed in 1978 (the National Executive had previously thought they were the trustees) the Trust funds had only reached around $6,000, but now they are nearer to $50,000.

Funds are raised from interest on loans, interest on investments of surplus funds, Rally concert collections, levies on clubs, and donations. The trustees are pleased to consider any requests from clubs and their members for financial assistance, as the more funds out on loans with clubs the less will be the tax liability - yes, the Trust does pay tax, but only on income from outside the movement, i.e., bank and investment interest.

Our accompanying photo shows the three Trustees standing in front of one of the Wellington Club's toilet blocks, a project financed in part by a loan from the Trust. The trustees from the left, are Roy Cox, Chairman; Doug Cousins, Secretary / Treasurer; and Jeff Hatfield, who keeps the minutes of Trust meetings.

For some years I have resisted visiting Ngatuhoa in spite of the urging of others who had had the pleasure of visiting before.

I was told the scenic beauty was spectacular and the companionship at the Ngatuhoa Youth Camp on Forestry Corporation land was second to none. Still I had hesitated until Anniversary Weekend this year.

Certainly none of the descriptions was any exaggeration. The streams, the bush walks and the social atmosphere were second to none.

However as with NZNF Rallies the enjoyment is equal to the contribution each individual puts in. I was lucky enough to be part of a group of Auckland Outdoor Health Club members who had been there before and willing to initiate a "newcomer".

Apart from evening volley ball "floodlit" by a solitary 100 watt bulb on the sideline, the highlight was the short walk led by the Commandant Ron.

He had promised a casual walk for his better half, Maureen, and Angela, Fern, Brian, Wayne, Bill, Jocelyn, Graham and myself. But what it turned out to be, was a tramp similar to the chase by the Allied Eighth Army of Rommel's Afrikaan Corps in the Middle East during WW2.

Ron set the pace, in spite of protests that we were not having a chance to enjoy the beautiful native bush and the occasional sound of native birds communicating in their natural habitat.

The sumptuous food lovingly and carefully prepared by Fern, Angela, Jocelyn and Maureen was making its bid to be let out backpacks and eaten. Not to mention Fern's "bubbly" which was in danger of melting in the rapidly overheating ice-pack.

Murmurs of discontent reached a crescendo when Ron failed to find a clearing where we could settle down to dine.

Almost as a compromise, Ron sought out a shady track where we could relax and enjoy the feast: sandwiches, chicken and other goodies. By general consent, the break was heavenly.

But we relaxed too soon. We did not allow for the aroma of the food attracting a swarm of wasps which descended upon us like a flight of F18 aircraft seeking out hostile enemy.

Ron, naturally made light of the invasion but Fern discovered a hitherto unknown aversion - to wasps. Well she might, as she seemed to be their preferred target. Even her favourite and precious bubbly had to be sacrificed for the sake of safety.

Our brave leader Ron attempted a diversion by spilling vintage wine on himself. His reward: the only one to be stung. Happily Maureen was prepared and had a first aid kit out in no time.

Restored to his usual extrovert self, Ron decided it was time to go. His platoon of trampers had no objection, fully fed, fully relaxed and ready for further discovery.

And discovery there was. On the way back to the camp we came upon an old wooden bridge whose only claim to fame appeared to be an easy way to get over a fairly wide stream.

On closer inspection however, we found a grand swimming hole complete with miniature waterfalls natural spas and cool, cool water.

Even more interesting was the spot's potential to be a natural aqua restaurant. There was a plateau of rock, smoothed flat by years of water flowing over it.

"What about a lunch on the rocks tomorrow?" asked Fern. There was a unanimous "yes" and preparations were set in train there and then, to have the gourmet meal there before the weekend ended

And what a meal and venue. A dining table and chairs were transported to the Restaurant in the Stream. The food prepared by the ladies was magnificent. A waiter was in attendance but because of the limited facilities the meal was taken in two sittings. The ladies first, then the gentlemen

Believe me we felt like ladies and gentlemen even though we were without cocktail dress and black ties.

And the comments from passers by? "Eat your hearts out, diners on the glaciers!"

No question: you make your own fun and Ngatuhoa is fun!

I wonder why I hadn't visited this place before. It certainly was a discovery. Roll on Auckland Anniversary Weekend 1995, when we yet again, will travel to this tranquil locale.

Article by Eddie Kwok and Photos by Graham Hall

WELLINGTON'S

MINI -

Photos: Doug Cousins

RALLY

Friday evening saw the bulk of the visitors arrive at Fiveacres and set up their camp sites. Most of them came from Palmerston North, but also included Hawkes Bay and South Auckland. There were supposed to be fun games that evening but they did not get underway, as settling in for the weekend took too long.

Saturday dawned with plenty of cloud and there was a period of light rain in the morning. This did not effect the programme as sports entries did not close until 11am. The sports entry sheets were professionally printed with columns for "Seeding" and "Needs". Under the latter some amusing comments included "Lots", "The wife", "Steroids". Another showed a list of surgical and other aids to keep the body moving and repaired! As soon as the draw sheets were posted up play began, with miniten taking first choice. For all pairs names were drawn from two hats, one for seeded players and one for the rest. There were some good games and close competition in all sports.

Late in the afternoon some tenikoit and petanque were played. Throughout the whole afternoon a whole sheep was slowly roasting for the club's weekend highlight: the spit roast.

Over 70 people joined in this scrumptious feast on the main lawn. We did notice that one of the ladies, who last year was thrown in the pool after the meal; turned up dressed in her Sunday best: fancy hairstyle, make-up and all - trying to be sure she wouldn't get another dunking.

That evening was the Club's homebrew competition, but, as it was extended to include wines, sweets and cakes; it was called a "home bake" competition with plenty of comments on the significance of that name. The official judges were "helped" by all those present as everyone had a chance to test their taste buds. Some rich comments were made about some of the brews. One said a sample tasted like "varnish remover" and another said "rat poison". One man was seen to roll around a mouthful of brew, then head for the door to spit it out. The winner was again a Palmerston North member. The prize winning cake was shaped like a bare female torso from the waist up.

Sunday dawned clear and mainly fine with very warm conditions all day. The usual bubbly breakfast got under way about 9.00 am and continued for quite a while. This must have had some effect on the sports players though, as nobody seemed to be too concerned about results! Sports really did their thing all day so that most events were completed in good time, with winners coming from both Wellington and Palmerston North clubs. They even had time for some Wellington versus Palmerston North volleyball, won by Wellington.

Children were not forgotten during the weekend. In addition to the junior events in most sports they also had some videos and on Sunday afternoon there was some body painting.

It was BBQ dinner on Sunday evening with three BBQ units going full blast. The Sports Officer got people into the clubhouse for indoor sports. Darts, table tennis and bowls took up all night. For bowls it was three ends a game. The last game was played at 1.30 am; but who cared, it was all good fun.

By the time everyone was ready for Monday's sports the grounds were starting to dry out a little from light rain overnight.

It was a trifle difficult for petanque as the soft lawn meant the balls sank in so that the "fairway" looked rather like a cow paddock after they had finished! The air was still warm so that swimming was much more practical than 12 months earlier. Several races, some novelty, were enjoyed by all who took part, including those in a relay won by Palmerston North.

All sports were completed by noon, when the heavens opened up for about an hour of heavy rain.

It was a good weekend in all ways, and that was well evidenced by some visitors staying an extra night. They again had warm and sunny weather on Tuesday, both to sun themselves as well as to dry out their gear.

by Doug R. Cousins

Photo: Doug Cousins

Dear Editor,

As both "H & E" and "Australian Sun & Health" pay for any article or features which I contribute (under a different pseudonym) to their magazines I presume that the "Naturist" does likewise. In support of this presumption I know of several people who have been paid for their contributions and can see no reason why I should be treated differently. It is now several months since my article "Unsung Heroes" appeared in the Naturist but I have heard nothing further. In addition you have printed two of my articles in the current issue. My pseudonyms were Paul Hunter (for "Requiem for Reef Beach") and Prudella Bartlett-Whitehouse (for "Down on the Farm Humour").

With regard to this latter article I was disappointed that the photos were not included, as without them it doesn't really make a great deal of sense - especially with a couple of misprints. Wouldn't it have been better to have delayed using it until a later issue if, as seemed to be the case, you had no room for any photos other than those of the Rally? As you appear not to be using any of the photos supplied for both articles, could they please be returned? They were clearly annotated on the back.

Also, might I suggest that some form of communication with contributors be instituted e.g. either a letter or phone call to say that the article/s have been accepted and/or rejected, so that any updating may be done.

As you will no doubt appreciate, circumstances may change between sending in the article and it being published several months later. What was correct in December may be incorrect in April.

I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.

Yours naturally,
Bernard J.G. Holibar

The Editor,

re: Letter in issue 148 from Frank.

The Mission of the Free Beach Group

To promote, encourage and support the practice of recreational nudity in public places when appropriate and desirable, such nudity being at the discretion of the individual participating.

Strategies

2. To identify suitable localities for nude swimming and sunbathing and to inform members and others genuinely interested of these.

3. To provide a social framework within which members may share the use of these localities and other facilities for social nudity.

In addition to the above, it is the position of "The Group" to work with the Police to remove from the beaches of New Zealand any person(s), who in in the opinion of the majority of beach users are undertaking acts which are offensive.

The following statement is taken from the Free Beach Etiquette which has just been completed and is ready for distribution to all members and the beach public.

Free Beach Etiquette

No Overt Sexual Activity. Leave exhibitionism to those attending clothed beaches. Nude is natural, but combined with sex, undermines our image.

Reaction to the letter was very quick, from many of the members of the FBG. Brian, who knows the beach situation very well, has put the situation into the proper prospective.

Traven Searle
President F.B.G.

Dear Editor,

At the last Rally we had a spirited discussion group on the subject of name change and new marketing directions for our N.Z. "Sun" Clubs in order to improve our public image in the 90's. Some speakers were definitely against being personally identifiable to the general public, which drew my response that if it took my published photo in the "Naturist" as Supporter Secretary, to sponsor the lead in fronting-up to the public readership, I was willing to do so.

Several years ago I know you gave the enclosed photo a page spread in the magazine, as it is the only one of myself which I possess, I do wonder if you could run it again?

Yes, I am quite willing for it to be captioned "N.Z.N.F. Supporter Secretary" - or similar. Actually the 180-odd members of our group at present would probably be happy to see who was behind my pen over the last eight years.

And thanks for your correction of Stephen Bosbach's address. In quite a long letter in reply, he asks "In the last issue of N.Z. Naturist there is only one article that deals with the issue of the public nude beach access in N.Z. With your liberal laws concerning nudity, why are there so few nudists in N.Z.?" And again, "How enlightened is N.Z. on nude recreation?

"Has a survey of attitudes ever been done in your country? Can you discuss your nude activities with your boss and co-workers? How accepted is nudity on a textile beach? Or do you separate your beaches by nude and textile at all?"

I have just made a reply to this as best I was able, but could not enlighten your readership on these points as he apparently hoped I was able to do. He did ask if I could pass his queries on to N.Z. Naturist, too.

All fair enough. But I guess we would all like to know what the results of a national survey would reveal, etc, on e.g. attitudes, work discussions, beach users.

Which all leads up to my query - how practical would it be to invite N.Z. readers on their personal experiences in some of these aspects - of which Steve wrote?

Do you think it would be helpful to have, as N.Z. content for the magazine?

I'm the amateur! You're the Editor! Just a thought though Graeme, which could possibly confound the many "experts" one hears at an A.G.M.?

Best wishes.

Sincerely
John Trotter

Dear Editor,

Australian architect / yacht designer / TV producer / naturist seeks 1 or 2 females as crew companions on a unique 3 year world cruise thru canals and rivers of Europe, Russia, the Med, Nile; in new motor sailing yacht, a once in a lifetime experience commencing late 1995.

Contact G. Fulton, GPOB: 755 Gee- long, Victoria, Australia 3220.

Dear Editor,

Two days ago we received a phone call from a man who had read our advertisement in the N.Z. Naturist and wanted more information about facilities at the Aywon Motel. When we pointed out that, although we are naturists (presently non-practicing because we are much too busy to get away), ours is not a naturist motel, he suggested rather tersely that our advertisement was misleading.

We would like to make it quite clear that it has not been our intention to mislead anyone. As we told our caller, we would expect everyone, and especially New Zealand naturists, to realise that a naturist motel in this country is simply not viable on economic grounds. If that point eluded anyone then the fact that this is a city motel should surely indicate the unlikelihood that it would be possible to go naked except in the privacy of the units.

Perhaps it is appropriate to explain here why we chose to advertise in the N.Z. Naturist. We became naturists, or nudists as we prefer to think of ourselves, when we lived in Sydney and yearned for long weekends far from the hectic city, as close to nature as possible. We stumbled on a clothes-optional "resort", 700 acres in a big river valley 30 miles from the nearest town. The setting was both grand and peaceful, wildlife abounded, the facilities were very good and the people were relaxed and friendly.

It took us no time to shed our clothes in public for the first time, and with them we shed our pretensions, inhibitions and cares. We have holidayed in many grades of accommodation in many parts of the world but nowhere did we relax so completely, have so much fun, or make such firm friends as we did there.

We think it had much to do with removing our clothes. Baring our bodies was like baring our souls without the stumbling, tedious, verbal explanations. An immediate trust was established with strangers: "Here we are, there is nothing more of us to see".

Since that first experience in Australia we have met a lot of nudists and with few exceptions have found them to be refreshingly down-to-earth, honest and caring with a good capacity for fun. We regard these as rare and precious qualities. The few exceptions have tended to be slightly creepy people, due, we imagine, to nervousness, a hangover of guilt from childhood or to a shallow sexual view of public nudity. It is because we have liked the great majority of nudists we have met that we advertised our motel in the Naturist. This is our place and we want to have here people that we enjoy.

Best wishes
Annette and Alan McWilliam

Dear Sir,

Re the story of Unsung Heroes, by Paul Hunter, issue no. 147.

As a matter of fact I can remember that bad weekend, as it happens I was on cooking duty. Between 2 tarpaulins the drops came down my neck like Chinese water torture.

Ron, myself and our children arrived on Saturday afternoon. Jean who really was a good swimmer (she was a life saver in England) had saved her daughter, with help from David & co. The accident happened on Saturday, because Jean was in our caravan all night spitting out sea water. Sunday we all went to the beach and my son Doug was stung by a Portuguese man-of-war jellyfish and we had to rush him to Wellsford to the doctor.

As Jean was on her own with the children we all looked after her. The weather was really bad on the Saturday. Barry who had found himself a real good spot (so he thought) found water rushing through his tent. His little daughter who was asleep came floating out the front on her Lilo.

So there are still a few of us in the movement with quite a lot of stories to tell of our experiences with Mother nature.

Hanna,
A.S.C.

Dear Editor,

Frank mentions that in NZN 147, he read of the "declining number of naturists" in my article entitled: Free Beach - Looking Forward. What I actually said was: "There has been a steady, if gentle, decline in both sun club and FBG membership over recent years." I believe the ACTUAL number of naturists is INCREASING - steadily.

The bulk of Frank's letter though, complains of deteriorating standards of behaviour at Breaker Bay: the place becoming over-run by "perverts and voyeurs". This situation wasn't mentioned in my article because I've heard only occasional rumours of trends there. I had observed most of the problems complained of, when I lived there 10 years ago, and have no reason yet, to believe it's much worse. If Frank cares to write to me c/- Box 551 Napier, I'll be happy to offer specific assistance.

The National Committee of the Free Beach Group is hoping to find, among dedicated beach goers on contentious or major beaches; volunteers for police and council liaison. (Offers to fill the positions gratefully received via Box 41-171 St Lukes, Auckland.)

Meantime, there are some simple measures that can be taken: like a cell phone, if you have access to one. Alternatively, take a camera to the beach, and point it (only) at anyone behaving offensively. Especially if Frank can find another family for support (either from the Free Beach Members Directory or by contacting the Wellington Regional Group), there's unlikely to be much trouble from any offenders pointed at.

The hard part at Breaker Bay, is getting the car registration number, it's a bit of a slog in the shingle just to see which car he gets into. However, with that and an incriminating photo the Police must act.

To answer Mike and Daphne Parr's plea for "true nudists rights:" the police now accept that it is not illegal to be simply naked in public. If anyone faces arrest for merely sunbathing nude, refer the constable - or local prosecutor, should there be an arrest; to the NZ Police magazine, 28th February 1992, Page 10, Law Notes: Naked Sunbathing on Beach. This has proved effective - even on the North Shore!

The New Zealand Bill of Rights specifically protects public expression of any "ethical belief." This has not been tested in court, and given the court ruling of 1991, a test of the naturist belief now seems unnecessary.

Offensive behaviour (that which arouses feelings of anger, disgust or outrage in the mind of a reasonable person) is illegal; as is 'indecent exposure': a "lewd or lascivious act" in a place clearly observable by the public. (It is a defence to claim belief that the activity would not be observed.) The police, given adequate evidence, will act on a complaint of behaviour in either category above.

It is obviously not practical for the police to patrol a beach like Breaker Bay. It is up to users to be sufficiently organised to fix the problem. We legitimate users, are going to be the ones to suffer if we don't. The problem of bad behaviour on city beaches has been around for years, but I think unless there's some positive control, the problem will get worse; and some control will be needed for at least one, possibly two, generations.

If we don't instigate some control, fairly soon, the wider public will. At present that would mean a simple law to ban public nudity altogether, put up by the 'New Right'; there isn't another option evident at present. The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.

Yours sincerely
John Lowe

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. 149 May 1994

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:

Graeme Brown

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

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

The Secretary N.Z.N.F.
PO Box 101-187
North Shore Mail Centre
Auckland 1330

President: Les Olsen
Auckland (09) 444-5015

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

PHOTO CREDITS

Graham McGregor - F.C., P7

Graham Hall - P10, P11, P12, P13,

P19, B.C.

Doug Cousins - I.F.C., P9, P14, P15,

P16, P17, I.B.C.

Les Olsen - P4, P22

DEADLINES FOR COPY

150 September 1994 - 15 July 1994

151 December 1994 - 1 October 1994

152 March 1995 - 30 January 1995

153 June 1995 - 20 April 1995