FREE BEACH News

January - February 1995

FREE BEACH GROUP Inc

PO Box 41-171   St LUKES   AUCKLAND 3

And the Winner is...

At a ceremony conducted on the banks of the Panatewaewae Stream, in the Tararua Ranges, on Sunday 11 December, a member who had travelled all the way from Napier, drew the wining number of the member(s) to win a refund of their 1994/95 subscription and a free subscription to Naturist Life NZ.

The winning number was 137, and this was compared with a list of all those who had renewed their subscription by 30 November. And the winners: Pauline & Arthur Willcox of Putaruru. CONGRATULATIONS.

We would like to thank all those who have renewed their subscription so promptly, and for the generous donations to the By-law Appeal, to which Members have contributed $1,095!

To those who have not got around to renewing yet, we have included a renewal form, in case you have lost the one sent with the September newsletter. As this will be the last newsletter unfinancial members will receive, we hope you will send in your subscription very soon, and help keep the flag flying. If you don't have 95 or 99 on your address label, our records show you have not renewed at the time the newsletter was mailed. If we are wrong, we would like to hear from you so we can put it right.

Meanwhile,

Happy, nude year everyone,

hope to see you on the beach, at Uretiti, Ngatuhoa, Waikuku, or some other Free Beach Group activity where-ever the Fred Bear flag is flying.

FREE BEACH   News

January - February, 1995

Page 2

FREE BEACH   News

January - February, 1995

Page 3

From the President

I have been getting a mixed bag of information from various sources in New Zealand. I have been looking at the situation in Australia and in between I have been thinking. We are a special breed of people. We are self-confident, we are socially aware, we are accepting, of both the beauty and the flaws, we are a-tuned with nature. When we are on the beach, we are free, even more free than our "cousins in the clubs".

But our freedom is as fragile as the environment we enjoy. Just as the stroke of a pen can level the trees, the hills or the beaches for a new development, that same pen can take away our freedom of lifestyle. The motto of the United States is "Ever Vigilant", so it must be with us.

I have been asked on several occasions, "what is our purpose?" ... to lobby for beaches or to be a social focal point. The answer is, of course, both. It is the role of the National Committee to undertake three main tasks:-

1 - To develop policies which promote the mission of the Free Beach Group.

2 - To  educate the  public of  NZ  in the  value  of clothes-optional recreation.

3 - To ensure that the erosion of the first two tasks never takes place.

It is the role of the Regions to promote the social framework in which the National Committee can effectively carry out its role. It is the Regions, whose most critical task is to ensure that by being present on the beaches and other venues, the Movement never dies. It is the Regions by example, who promote the image which will ensure our growth and continued freedom of choice.

So what's the problem?      Apathy

Over the past few years our numbers have been declining, in Australia the situation is even worse.

If we fail, all it will take to remove ALL of us from the beaches is a couple of developers, a couple of lawyers and a Bill in Parliament. AND that threat can be applied to the Clubs as well. We already are seeing the problems some clubs are having.

On a good day, on many of our beaches, we see many more nudists then we have in our Group. WE must get to them. We must show that there is security in the Free Beach Group, and danger outside of it. We must be able to represent the voices of thousands, not a hundreds.

Many of us take this Freedom for granted. In the US (that land of the free) the Free Beach groups must fight for each and every beach or lake or river. They spend thousands of dollars to ensure that they can go down to the beach and express themselves as we do at Breakers Bay, St. Leonards or where-ever.

You may say, I am preaching to the converted. What I am saying is: become the missionaries, get out and convert some more.

Traven Searle

The By-law & the Free Beach Group

Nobilangelo Ceramalus presented our case to the North Shore City Council on 10 November, only to have the Mayor sweep it aside with the statement that "nobody else had spoken up for the nudists", which is not true, since the 1992/93 Committee had also presented a submission, with several members attending that Council meeting.

The North Shore City Council has shown no respect for us or our rights, and we intend doing the same for their by-law. In our opinion, backed by the legal opinion prepared for us by Mr Barry Wilson MA, barrister, (and member of the Council for Civil Liberties), we are entitled to swim and sunbathe naked on the beach, and we shall continue to do just that.

The Free Beach Group is the only organisation in New Zealand devoted to the promotion and protection of beach nudity, yet, throughout the whole country, we have little over two hundred registered membership units. It is therefore important for each one of us to go to the beach as often as we can, and if possible, persuade other naturists to join the Free Beach Group.

We have the law on our side, and New Zealanders generally are on our side. As a nation, we don't like restricted legislation that curtails our freedom to do our own thing, especially when what we are doing is harmless.

The world has become far from a natural place, at least the parts of it that we humans live in, but we can't go on like that, because we are slowly destroying our environment. The only way the world can live forever is for us to be in harmony with nature and the naturist lifestyle. We hold the candle of hope, a small and wavering flame of enlightenment. May our Fred Bear stand for one word: FREEDOM. Is not the history of mankind one long saga of campaigns against oppression?

Jackie Caldwell

It would seem that the North Shore City Council has a by-law which has no teeth. The police have said that they have no grounds on which to prosecute anyone sunbathing or swimming nude on a beach. The by-law has no jurisdiction below the mean high water mark.

If you should encounter any problems, have pen and paper ready, ask for identification, note where you are, time and place, and record the conversation. Be courteous, explain your rights, and have a copy of "Law Notes" (included in with the May-June 94 newsletter, together with a copy of our legal opinion (pages 3 & 4, Sept-Oct 94 newsletter). It would be a good idea to have these laminated for protection for the elements.

An excellent article on the law as it applies to nudity in NZ appeared in the October issue of Naturist Life NZ. Write to Nobilangelo, 3 Caram Place, North Shore City for a copy, enclose $5-50.

FREE BEACH   News

January - February, 1995

Page 4

Titbits From OZ

I was invited to attend the Queensland Free Beach Association annual AGM during October, (a warm time of the year). It was enlightening... they have the same problems with getting a quorum as we do. I think I got counted in the make-up of the 15 required, in order to make the numbers. Of course they have a bigger area to handle.

I found that many of the issues they face are similar to ours, except the legality of nude freedom. I understand now how precious this is to us and how fragile. The AGM was in three parts... allow me to explain.

It was held on the grounds of "Pacific Friends" clothes optional resort. A place I recommend. Part 1 was the AGM which went from l0am to noon. More about that later. Attendance at the AGM was free... but... for $8, one was invited to part 2 & 3. So I paid my's money and got treated to Part 2, a BBQ (sponsored by the executive). I wonder what would have happened if there were 50 people. Part 3 is what I paid my money for and by far was well worth every penny. That was the right to spend the day at Pacific Friends, to meet lovely people, to swim and to lie in the sun. There was sun, lots of it. I left about 5pm (the sun goes down early here).

Highlights of the AGM

1 - The Group's main role is to lobby the Government for changes to the laws governing nudity on the beaches. It is actually up to the local councils to designate nude recreation, but due to the current wording of the State laws, there is confusion over the legality of the council by-laws in relation to the State laws. That we should so lucky!

2 - Membership is decreasing. They believe, as I do that the current acceptance of nudity in general is nullifying the need to join a group. (Apathy.) Also because they have designated beaches, the size of the crowd at them, keeps some people from joining. And many of the beaches are in harder than normal places to get at, and therefore make it difficult for textiles to "happen by".

3 - Fees are holding firm. Currently $10 per unit, or $5 for students & pensioners. Plus a $3 charge for the INF card. About this small matter... The FBAQ is the group recognized by the ANF as representing the Free Beaches in Queensland. Free Beach groups also exist in other States.

4 - Elections: Gill Porter stepped down as President and Les Hotchin moved from Secretary/Treasurer to President.

I wish them all the best, along with the rest of the committee. They have a very tough job to do.

In closing, Pacific Friends is a nice cosy, bright and friendly acreage, in the early stages of the "Sunshine Coast". One can go for the day or spend some time there. If you are in my area, give me a call and I will be glad to give directions, and to hitch a ride.

Until next time...

Traven Searle

Naturist Walkers

Basil Nottingham (Canterbury Sun Club) has re-formed (or should that read reformed?) his 'Naturist Walkers" group to include local Free Beach group members.

Nine "Naturist Walkers" enjoyed a leisurely Tuesday saunter over the Port Hills from Camp Bay to Little Port Cooper. The gathering devolved into three sub groups, dependent on fitness and general inclination. Basil and the tyro's charged off into the blue, the second group including yours truly, followed our own inclinations and a slightly different route, whilst Joyce and Bertie brought up the rear.

Speaking of inclinations, one of our lady members was seen frequently caressing selected tussock clumps in some sort of back-to-nature/Earth Mother Ritual; or was it simply relation mode?

Towards the end of the day everyone re-grouped at Diamond Harbour and savoured the delights of a most enjoyable barbecue and social chit-chat courtesy of Nigel and Hilda (CSC members). Thank you Nigel and Hilda, a delightful end to the day.

Steve Wilkinson

Members' Directory

The 1994/95 Members Directory is included with this newsletter for those members who declared that they wished to included, AND have renewed their subscription.

Reducing Breast-Cancer Risk Factors

No one yet knows how to prevent breast cancer, but women can take some pro-active measures that may help reduce their risk and minimize environmental and health factors that are suspected of contributing to the increased rates of breast cancer:

1: Participate in outdoor activities for one hour at least three times a week.

2: Add UVA (full spectrum) light to work and home environments whenever possible, to enhance melatonin production.

3: Lower fat and sugar in diet to a maximum of 15 percent of total calorie intake.

4: Increase intake of vegetables, particularly dark green vegetables like kale, collards, and cabbage-family vegetables.

5: Avoid all synthetic hormones: oral contraceptives, foods that contain DES or other hormone residues (such as meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products), and estrogen-replacement therapies, including tamoxifen.

6: Maintain a regular exercise program for a minimum of forty-five minutes, four times a week.

7: Lower stress with professional therapy, meditation, yoga, career satisfaction, and loving, supportive relationships.

Linda Nunn

Sunday 8 January
Fitzpatrick Bay
High tide 1.40 p.m.

A pretty little beach with pine trees and grass where the kids can play. Handy to town, and you can do your shopping on the way. Good place for a barbecue.

Sunday 15 January
Tawhitokino
High tide 7.25 p.m.

One of our nicest beaches, a wide stretch of white sand with bush-clad cliffs and rocky headlands. At low tide you can walk around the coast to Orere Point.

Saturday 21 January
to Monday 30 January
Ngatuhoa Lodge

Yes, there is still time to join us for our annual holiday at Ngatuhoa. Meet at the gate at 2 p.m. on Saturday, or at 4.30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday or Friday, or at 10 a.m. on the second Saturday. See your newsletter for details.

Sunday 22 January
Orpheus Bay
High tide 3 p.m.

One of Auckland's early nudists, Emiel Roland, discovered this little beach, and it became his favourite spot. Emiel was a foundation member of the Free Beach Group, and some of us still call it "Emiel's Beach".

Sunday 29 January
St. Leonard's Beach
High tide 6.55 p.m.

If you're not going to Ngatuhoa, it's a good weekend to stay close to home and avoid the traffic. The tide will be just right for a warm evening swim.

Monday 30 January
Orpheus Bay
High tide 10.40 a.m.

Two weeks in a row isn't too much for this lovely little bay. Because it faces south, Orpheus Bay is best during mid-summer, so make the most of it.

Sunday 5 February
Pohutukawa Bay
High tide 12.20 p.m.

One of Auckland's traditional naturist beaches, with shady pohutukawas and good swimming. Go by bus if you haven't a car. The track along the top of the cliff has been widened and upgraded, for access when the tide is in.

Monday 6 February
Little Palm Beach
High tide 12.5Op.m.

A special trip to Waiheke. Ferries leave from the Ferry Steps at 8 and 10 a.m., returning at 4.45 and 6.15 p.m. Adults $22 return, children $10, plus bus fare.

Sunday 12 February
Mellon's Bay
High tide 6.05 p.m.

Enjoy a soft and balmy evening, and swim by the light of the moon. Take your barbecue, and invite someone from your Members' Directory to go with you.

Sunday 19 February
Karekare
High tide 1.45 p.m.

A fascinating place, with lots of tracks to explore. For sunbathing, walk up Watchman's Road, through a bush track and down to the beach, about ten minutes' walk. Fishing.

Saturday 25 February
Palm Springs
6 p.m. to midnight

First swim night for the year, courtesy of Hibiscus Coast Sun Club. Large pools, spa pools and gas barbecues, or buy a meal from the restaurant. Motor camp over the road.

Sunday 26 February
Bethell's Beach
High tide 8.30 a.m.

If you like exploring, and want total solitude, walk along the beach to your left, and around the rocks to Wigmore Bay. Wear strong shoes, as the rocks are sharp, and allow plenty of time to get back again, it's a long way.

Wellington NEWS

January - February, 1995

Waikuku Lodge, why not?

Get away from it all at Waitangi weekend at Waikuku Lodge.

The Lodge, or rather, old farmhouse situated 32km south-east of Martinborough right in the middle of the Haurangi Forest Park. The Lodge provides comfortable accommodation, three bedrooms sleep 30-40 bunk style (but bring your own air mattress or similar), large kitchen with electric stoves and Zip hot water, adjoining living room and lounge. Both the living room and lounge have open tires. Three hot showers.

The area provides good walking tracks for the fit and not so fit, and no prospect of upsetting the neighbours if you are unclothed (there are none). But parents should make sure their children don't venture into the bush alone, in fact no one should go alone unless they are very experienced.

Neil intends to scout around the area over the Christmas break to check out the swimming holes in the nearby river. There are also nearby creeks, but at this time of the year these could be low.

The Blue Creek (Ruakokopatuna). Glow-worm caves are a short distance away and are well worth a visit. A good TORCH is essential. A picnic can be had at the entrance to the caves on the grassy bank.

Come along and enjoy the great out doors, See you at Waikuku, Why Not ?

Bob Squires

Please make out cheques to the Free Beach Group (Wellington), not Linda Geeves as stated on the gold Waikuku Lodge registration form.     Linda

Panatewaewae Tramp

What may have been lacking in numbers was surely made up by the air of friendliness and enthusiasm by the group who undertook this interesting and somewhat exciting adventure.

After a courtesy wait at the Waikawa picnic site, we headed oft along the road to the Waikawa shelter at the road end. After the seal ran out at the old Forest Service Rangers residence we were subjected to a rough and somewhat precarious drive but finally made it intact. We then prepared for the unknown, and within the first 500m both Les and Geoff had taken a tumble over the roots and rocks, both fortunately surviving with nothing more than a blow to their pride and a few scratches.

Crossing the Panatewaewae stream we trekked up the track through native bush on the true left bank of the stream. Within halt an hour we were delighted to see a large open area covered with tall bush grass and signs of human endeavour of a bygone age. Within sight of a most inviting swimming hole we lunched in style wondering which of us was game to dive into the cold stream - no volunteers.

So we headed on upstream passing through a number of open areas similar to the first. The going became a series of crossings and the routine became more precipitous until we virtually waded through a tunnel in the rock. There was also evidence of large slips on either side of the gorge, but none fortunately of recent origin. Time for a break, so in a small clearing with a fine grassy bank, we sun bathed in the warm sun that finally appeared.

Retracing our steps back to the Waikawa shelter mostly starkers, Geoff suggested we had not earned a rest so we headed up the old tram track along the Panatewaewae Ridge track. A steady climb with plenty of botanical interest in the variety of native plants and shrubs ably explained by John made for education of the less knowledgeable. Finally after half an hour, the track became overgrown and a unanimous decision was made to return. We all agreed it was a most worthwhile adventure and vowed to repeat the experience in the not too distant future.

Les Davies, who had joined us from Napier as an honoured guest drew the lucky number from John's hat for the free subscription at our lunchtime stop.

Desmond Dawe

PS: Certainly beats the burning sun and searing winds of Peka Peka at this time of year!

(And yes, the retraced trip to find a pair of lost sunglasses was successful. We wont embarrass anyone by naming the person who lost them, but we can say it was not Des, Les, or John.)

Breaker Bay Bonanza

Sunday 11 December, while some of the more energetic were tramping at Panatewaewae, a group of no less than ten of us converged on Breaker Bay, and hoisted five Fred Bear flags. 

The weather was magic and hot, and there were lots of other nudists there, so we approached them and asked if they would like to join the Free Beach Group. The response was startling, they were all enthusiastic to join; we chatted for a while in some cases and ended up with 12 or more names and addresses. 

We have also drafted a letter to the Wellington City Council thanking them for installing steps where the track was washed away. Access is now much improved. 

Rick Baker

The November Swim Night concluded another year of this very popular activity, and we all look forward to another season beginning in April. Meryl