#  50 - March 1969 

[The New Zealand Naturist - Autumn] Editor: Perc Cousins (Pages: 48 - 30c)

Contents:-

Editorial
"None so Deaf..." by Lionel Jackson
Textiles or Sex-Styles
News from the Clubs (11)
Talking to Women with Joan Treanor
Quote of the Month
17th Annual National Rally (Pineglades)
Obituary: Dick Whittington
The Bare Facts - a poem
The Junior Section with Joan Treanor
NZSA Notes - The 18th National Rally, Christmas Greetings, Overseas Magazines, The Latest Nudist Film, International Passports and Guides, Advertising Representatives, Lost or Just Mislaid, News Extraordinary, Advance Deadline Date, Perc Cousins Trust Fund, Sydney Pirates, Disclaimer
Competition
Readers Have Their Say
A Nudist is Born
History: Otago on the Move
Alone in the Sun
Sun Clubs in New Zealand - No 11 - Conventional Thinking
Naturism in NZ by Eric Flint
Ode to an Orb a poem by John Hedley-Brown
History: Early days of Naturism in NZ - Part 1
Talking About Books
Club Directory: (16)

Noted

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	NEW ZEALAND SUNBATHING ASSOCIATION INC. P.O. BOX 6359, WELLINGTON, N.Z. PUBLISHED QUARTERLY MARCH, JUNE, SEPTEMBER, DECEMBER
	ARTICLES AND PHOTOGRAPHS ARE INVITED

A    VALUABLE    CONTRIBUTION    TOWARDS    A    BETTER    WORLD

 

N.Z. NATURIST
Editor		Perc. W. Cousins
Business Manager		Doug. Cousins
Copy Preparation		John Hedley-Brown
Advertising Representative		Barry Hill
Cartoons		Slim

 

Cover photo by Doug. Cousins

NEW ZEALAND SUNBATHING ASSOCIATION INC.

President		Perc. W. Cousins, Wellington
Vice-Presidents		Jock Shoolbread, Auckland Jack Knowles, Auckland Norman Bell, Napier Ivan Mowlem, Wanganui
Secretary - Treasurer		Doug. Cousins, Wellington
Public Relations Officer		Gavin Robieson, Wellington
Youth Organiser		Joan Treanor, Christchurch
Women's Representative		Joan Treanor, Christchurch
Overseas Correspondent		David Jenkinson, Wellington
Delegates representing all clubs

 

Enquiries regarding naturist clubs or any matters concerning naturism in New Zealand
or overseas should be made to the association at its office

NEW ZEALAND SUNBATHING ASSOCIATION Inc.

P.O. Box 6359, Wellington, New Zealand

APPLICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP OF CLUBS SHOULD BE MADE DIRECT TO THE CLUBS

 

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PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

THE PAST

Most organizations need a mouthpiece and a somewhat unconventional movement such as nudism, needs one more than ever. Apart from keeping members informed, the work of counteracting the misunderstanding that still exists in the public mind about us, is equally important. A magazine also provides a medium for correcting untrue statements and becomes a forum for opinion, true or misguided.

The importance of these requirements was recognized from the first and as soon as it was practical, an attempt was made to meet the need.

In May, 1956, it was decided to launch our first effort at journalism, and when we compare this issue with that early attempt, we can modestly accept the fact that we have come a long way.

That first issue was a duplicated effort on two foolscap sheets, with no cover, no staples, no illustrations or pictures and little else but good intentions. The National Review, as it was then called, cost 4d and started with a circulation of 150 copies and for several years the entire set-up was executed by willing members: writing the articles, typing stencils, duplicating, assembling and distributing. It was a great day, filled with trepidation and not without some misgiving, when we eventually went into print, a step that would have been further delayed had not a sponsor willingly offered to meet any loss on the first two issues. And a loss we did suffer, but the slightly increased circulation encouraged us to continue in that format.

THE PRESENT

And so, thanks to our printer, artists, distributors, contributors and others, we have overcome the various difficulties to be associated with the marketing of a somewhat unconventional magazine, against considerable opposition and prejudice. We now enjoy a good sale in NZ and Australia and small outlets in England and Canada.

It is of considerable interest to readers to know that all contributions have been voluntary, and with the exception of the actual printing, block-making and distribution, the rest of the work is still freely given.

There are a number of shops not stocking our magazine, and much still remains to be done to increase the circulation. We nevertheless are optimistic and know that as we are getting known and accepted more and more, so the demand will increase.

THE FUTURE

Readers make it clear that they enjoy the genuine and fresh approach we have maintained and a number of people have been influenced to join us, just through reading this magazine and consequently having their false ideas corrected.

So we can look forward to a better and better magazine as the increased circulation permits, for all profits are ploughed back for improvements. While we aim to encourage a greater acceptance and appreciation of our principles, there will always be some objections from the ignorant; but while we maintain the high moral tone associated with the movement today, we can look forward to a bright and prosperous future. The editor sincerely thanks everybody, past and present, who have made this venture the success it has undoubtedly become.

- PERC. W. COUSINS 

 

• "... THERE WILL ALWAYS BE SOME
OBJECTIONS FROM THE IGNORANT"

 

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"None so deaf..."

Lionel Jackson

IT WAS a late-winter Sunday morning. I was in my caravan at the sun club enjoying breakfast. The sun was shining and the birds were singing. Through the window I could see a member working and enjoying the sun. I was about to call to him to ask him to share my joy, when I remembered he was deaf; he could not hear the birds.

This saddened me for a while and set me thinking. I knew that in the distant past he had been able to hear and I wondered if he missed them. I thought of the pleasures I get each day, the bird in a nearby tree that sings to me each morning and evening; the blackbirds each evening as they go to bed, and the little fantail that perches above the caravan each evening and chatters away until I come out and talk to him and watch him fly around, before he too, goes to bed.

Then, although my friend could not hear them, I knew there was something he heard that we could and do share, that is the call of naturism: the joy of living naturally whenever possible. To do everyday things, to relax, to play in the air, the sun and water, without clothes, completely free, together with our friends at the club or at home; from experience we both know it is healthy, for both body and mind.

I wonder how many of our friends and workmates outside the clubs are really deaf to the call of naturism; some of them heard, but they have no one in whom they can confide, to find out more and how and why. You could help them and yourself, if only you did not keep your interest a secret. I know that you will find more true friends than you lose.

How many times have you had to stay at home on a fine, sunny Sunday, when you would much rather be at the club, just because some non-naturist friends or relations dropped in? Do they do it on purpose, having found out that your mysterious trips are to the sun club? Next time, why not be firm and tell them to come back again on a wet day or come with you? Do it with a smile and you won’t lose any friends, but you may gain new members. Many members live in fear lest their parents or others find out, and this does not help them relax. Eventually they find out, and some turn against you because you lied to them for so long.

Many members have been pleasantly surprised, as well as relieved when they have been found out, to hear, "Why didn't’t you tell us before, we would love to come." They have come and stayed and family life has been improved. It pays to be frank every time.

Now just sit and think, listen, look around. How would you like to be completely deaf? You would miss a lot ... your friends are doing just that, and it is up to you to help them. •

 

 

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TEXTILES or SEX-STYLES

by PENWORTHY

NUDISTS in Europe are aware of, and practise, their naturist credo at certain free beaches in Europe and elsewhere. Where folk dress in bathing costumes for seaside activities, the term "textile beach" has been coined, and an apt label it is.

We in New Zealand have not vet stormed the Bastille of public opinion on free beaches for nudists, so we will continue to see semi-nudity this summer at all resorts. What a pity and what an insult to intelligent people. To see a toddler of two or three years sporting a bikini is not only ludicrous, it's alarming. A child must willy-nilly conform to a pattern of social mores laid down by parents who in turn are moulded by national laws, religious scruples, and so on. The seeds of doubt, puzzlement and shame are sown deep in the young mind, to flower later into all sorts of undesirable behaviour; at best this regime causes severe emotional stress and loneliness. The worst results are seen in the sexual assault and the multiple rape.

Why do parents perpetuate this fiasco of respectability? More amazing still is the display of semi-nudity on our beaches in summer. Brevity in costumes is a recent phenomenon here and the delicate boundary line betwixt shame and decency is the subject of police supervision, national law, local by-laws, gossip of the Mrs Grundies, and lavatory scrawl.

How absurd and unnecessary it all is. Immorality is a national sickness and we still continue to give it wholehearted support while we persist in treating our bodies like holy relics. While Jimmy doesn't see Mum in the bath; while Anne doesn't get undressed for bed in front of guests or the cosy fire; while Harry changes behind his clump of scrub for frolic in the creek and Jean behind hers; then, and with such nicety, we mock our own ideals of decency.

It's time we scrapped the bikini, the monokini, the mini-skirt, le minimum and every other accoutrement of the morbid, messy, mini-mind. If our children are tainted by our crudities, then it's because we don't reveal our true selves, inwardly or outwardly. •

Roy S. Carson 

• BREVITY IN COSTUMES IS A RECENT PHENOMENON

  

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N E W S F R O M  T H E C L U B S I N  N. Z.

 

The start of the 68/69 season has got away to an excellent start at the OTAGO SUN AND HEALTH CLUB for old and new members alike. They have enjoyed every Sunday and some Saturdays at the club grounds for the past two months. Labour weekend saw three families camping at the grounds where an excellent weekend of swimming, teniquoit and sunbathing was enjoyed. On Sunday night a general sing-song in the clubhouse helped to keep spirits up, whilst the rain thundered down outside. Monday dawned fine and another pleasant day ensued.

The dam for holding the head of water for the pool has been renewed, a new inlet pipe built and the pool itself cleaned and reconcreted. This season they intend to widen and improve the tracks for the bush walks as these have become very popular, especially the walk up to the waterfall. Roy has presented the club with a volleyball and members thanks go to him and Thelma for their kind gesture.

They intend to organize film and slide evenings throughout the year, so this will help keep members in touch with each other during the off season, as well as the inevitable working parties, without which no club can prosper.

Fiveacres, the grounds of the WELLINGTON SUN CLUB, was prepared for what was hoped would be the best-ever season. Improvements included a jumbo sized draughts board of black and white tiles set in concrete, the painting of the kiddies' play equipment, including nursery rhyme characters around a slide-cum-dolls' house, grading and surfacing the drive and the never-ending chore of grass cutting. A major improvement was the lining of the pool with a thick coating of fibreglass, which it is hoped will be a permanent solution to the arduous annual repainting.

A steady response was obtained from Press advertisements, which for the first time stated plainly that the club offered "nude swimming and sunbathing". It is a new breakthrough in public relations to find this wording freely accepted for publication. Enquiries from 5 advertisements involved some 60 people, some of whom have already joined their ranks.

The annual visitors' day and children's Christmas party attracted a record crowd and there must have been well over 120 youngsters who received gifts from Father Christmas and enjoyed the pranks of a clown. A TV crew once again took shots around the grounds and were very impressed by the set-up.

The WANGANUI SUN CLUB is getting close to acquiring its own grounds, a 15 acre property about 10 miles from the city. They now have the lease transferred, and two of the owners have agreed to sell to their club. By the time the third one agrees, and the "red tape is unwound", they expect it will be March, 1969, before a price agreement is reached, and they can take possession. Then all the hard work will be ahead of them A full-page write-up in the local newspaper about the move brought them several new keen members.

At the time of writing they were looking forward to their trip to Christchurch for the Rally, and a trip to the beach with Wellington members in February. Despite the weather during Labour weekend, their members had a very enjoyable time at Fiveacres, renewing friendships with Napier and Wellington members. Thank you Fiveacres.

They are looking forward to being able to invite Fiveacres members to visit them as soon as the new grounds are in some sort of order.

The GISBORNE SUN CLUB tells us they are still searching for those elusive grounds, having been unsuccessful with the Lands and Survey, the Catchment Board and the County Council; in fact they say land is as scarce as rain. As a change from the regular activities, they are holding a big barn dance in the New Year. At 50 cents each and by invitation only, they expect a big turn-out, as half the proceeds will be donated to the Crippled Children Society. That seems to us to be a wonderful idea to gain public acceptance. We wish them every success in such a laudable idea.

New life seems to be astir in ROTORUA, for a recent report indicated that they were placing ads in the local paper and they are doing their best to form a club. Local people interested should write to P.O. Box 1007, for it is high time we had a club in the centre of the thermal area. Wouldn't it be wonderful if they had a hot pool?

The inaugural meeting to name and form an incorporated club in Auckland was held on the 18th December, 1968. The name chosen for the new club was KOWHAI VALLEY CLUB INC. Some members have been in the movement for a number of years, and suitable land (15 acres) was purchased by a company in July of 1968, and members agreed to the terms in September and started to develop the land.

The property is set in beautiful native bush bounded by Council bush reserves on three sides and a mountain stream on the other, giving members in the meantime a swimming pool, until such time as they build their own. A road has been constructed into the centre of the grounds and members can park their cars on half an acre set aside for that purpose. One acre of land has been cleared, giving them a sunning area, camping and games areas and it is intended to enlarge this to three acres during the coming winter, to give them plenty of space for all facilities. They hope to be able to let the youth of their club have one acre for their activities and a youth group will be formed next season.

Poplar trees have been planted on their front boundary for screening purposes, and this coming spring will see kowhai trees planted on the sides of the driveway leading into the grounds to fit in with their, name. Kowhai trees are all along their stream boundary at present, so it will be seen why they chose this name. The property is at the end of a road which makes this an ideal nudist retreat.

Members have visited a northern beach and enjoyed a Christmas party in mid-December when Santa left a see-saw roundabout for the, children. At the turn of the year they numbered 33 adults and 22 children, with prospective members on their lists. They have a campaign mapped out for publicity and have restricted their membership to keep them as ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY, so that all members can go on outings together. They will have photos of progress ready for the next issue of The NZ Naturist. So if you are thinking of joining a young nudist club in Auckland, why not drop a line to the secretary at P.O. Box 6238, Wellesley St. W, Auckland 1, and he will be only too glad to hear from you.

Things have been hectic at HAWKES BAY SUN CLUB for, during November, an advertising campaign for their open day resulted in over 50 people being interviewed and approved. All this happened in just over a week. Of these people over 30 joined in the next couple of weeks. As their previous membership was about 45, this severely taxed the amenities, so much so that the water supply, just getting back on its feet after the trouble during the winter, was completely used up and they have had to resort to carrying water for drinking purposes. Unfortunately, this also meant that it would make conditions intolerable for anyone camping on the grounds and it was an embarrassed committee which made the decision to write to all the visitors who were expected, with the plea that they would stay in the local motor camps at night but spend their days at the club. The much larger membership, expected to double this year, has meant that amenities will have to be built and it was while applying for permits to build that it was discovered that it was necessary to get permission to even have a sun club on the land. They have legally applied to the County Council for a conditional use for the land, and when this is approved, the club can then go ahead in planning for a new ablutions block and dam to store water.

A fairly new committee took over at the AUCKLAND SUN CLUB last year and they wish to thank all past members for their valued service in the past. Swim nights had a good attendance and will be resumed this coming winter.

The new swimming pool is well under way. The hole has been dug and the boxing finished, leaving only the polythene sheeting to be fitted into place. With a little luck, it will be in use in the New Year. Though the children's party was marred by rain, everyone enjoyed themselves except Santa, whose whiskers threatened to leave his face and he needed three hands. Also a 2-gallon carton of ice cream froze solid in its dry ice pack and had to he shaved off in slices. Enlargement of the car park will eventually be a big improvement without the loss of any screening.

• "I'M SORRY, BUT I JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND THIS MODERN ART."

The CANTERBURY SUN & HEALTH CLUB'S activities were entirely centred around preparations for the big get-together, reported elsewhere. Visitors were pleased to note a new toilet block has been completed, a miniten court sealed and several new cabins built.

The NELSON SUN CLUB is on the brink of great things. Yes, there is a club there and at the time of writing was just 4 weeks old. In those 4 weeks they have managed to become accepted, to have gained new members and are going ahead. It is thought that with Nelson's sunny climate, the club will become popular with visitors from other clubs, so they are bearing this in mind while looking for permanent grounds.

There is one great advantage in joining now. You will be able to mould the club in the way that appeals to you most. Remember their motto: It is great to belong, at the Nelson Sun Club. Why not drop a line to P.O. Box 467, Nelson.

Although the season has been exceptionally dull - 32 consecutive Sundays with rain, according to one member - the AUCKLAND OUTDOOR HEALTH CLUB INC. has seen a steady growth of membership due to an advertising campaign during the last three months. However, there is still plenty of room for new members and they are always pleased to receive enquiries.

Recent activities included a Hallow-e'en fancy dress party which was a great success and a barbecue with fireworks for Guy Fawkes. The children's Christmas party was held to end off the year with vast quantities of ice cream and jelly consumed. The club canteen has been restocked for the summer and a large deep freeze purchased with donations from members so that ice cream will be readily available.

Coming events are an inter-club sports day with games and swimming competitions and a club picnic at the beach. •

 

 

Why does it always rain in Spain?

We thought that was quite plain.

 

  

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with Joan Treanor

THE cheerful sound of laughing children, talking adults and hammering in the background, indicated that many arrivals were on the grounds of Pineglades for the 17th National Rally last December. Once again we see faces that we normally only meet at these Rallies. It is a pleasure to see how their children have grown in the past year and to discover what has been happening to them all.

Although I endeavour to visit most of the clubs through the year, this isn't always possible, hence my effort to talk to you all at the Rallies, as I find the personal approach is much better.

In every article I keep nagging for letters or news from you all, but discovered at the women's session during the Rally that I haven't made myself entirely clear on this matter. I don't mind whether the letters come from you as an individual or from your club, just as long as I do get your queries and comments. There must have been many times when you have disagreed often with what I have written and would have loved to have commented with regard to it. Well this is your opportunity. Write as soon as yOu have finished reading this. If you don't want your comments published, then I am prepared to answer your letter individually, for I really enjoy writing letters.

In the mail today was a letter from a club member, and I quote as follows:

"Dear Joan,

Although I am a man I always read your women's page and recently I have been thinking about the lazy part women take in club life. I agree that they do, in my club at least, make the afternoon tea and run the canteen with the male members of their communities, but I can see no particular sphere which can be classed as purely a women's project.

"The men build fences, toilets, top trees, check the water pump, maintain the showers, etc. Our club is rather drab and dry, and wonder what is the best way to suggest that they could plan a garden around the clubhouse. I know that the club would need to get some good soil for the plots to stand our hot summer sun and I am certain the women members could plant a very attractive display of bedding plants. What do women members feel about this?

- Snapdragon"    

Well, ladies, I do hope that someone will reply to Snapdragon.

• A FAMILY ALL THE BETTER FOR BREAKING AWAY FROM CONVENTIONAL THINKING

One of the ideas mentioned during the ladies session was that the clubs hold social evenings at least monthly, especially during the winter. This idea would of course, help to keep the women together when there isn't much opportunity for sunbathing, but I rather feel that socialising is just as important. This would also be a good opportunity for the newer woman to get to know the older members better, and make them feel more at ease within the club.

There were a lot of suggestions brought forth as to what form this social evening could take, and here is where, if one club wrote about what they were doing, others would perhaps inform us of their suggestions or else accept the ideas of others.

Apparently a few women who would really like to join the movement feel that they must completely strip on entering a club. This idea is as wrong as the supposed one that we stay undressed whether raining or fine. Naturally we would like to see you completely relax when you join, and to do this, one must remove all those layers of clothing, but heavens, if we made it a ruling, I feel that we wouldn't get so many women members. I didn't undress completely until after the first few visits, and I am sure that others feel as I felt. Once you have removed all those fetters, you stay that way and enjoy the naturist way of life as I do, then we certainly won't have any complaints. To see a completely browned body makes one look and feel so much healthier. I know that I haven't a show of pretending to be ill, for with being so brown I look as if I had never experienced a day's illness in my life.

We have had glorious weather over the Rally period and the days following, and it is delightful to watch those paler North Island bodies slowly acquiring the richer tans. Not of course as good as ours, but not doing so badly, especially the children. There is such a relaxed pleasant atmosphere amongst the club during the Rally. Both volleyball courts were being used for games, the miniten court had a foursome on it, teniquoit was being played, in the background was the sound of laughter coming from the swimming pool and children were running around the grass centre. In all it was a most pleasing sight and with the night so delightfully light, no one seemed to be in a hurry to return to their cabins or tents.

I feel that at this Rally I was able to come closer to the women than previously, but the only way I will know is when your letters start coming in, and I am sure that some of you at least will take time to put pen to paper.

Send your letters to Joan, P.O. Box 6359, Wellington.

  

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THE 17th ANNUAL NATIONAL RALLY

HELD AT PINEGLADES, 29th Dec. 1968 to 2nd Jan. 1969

TWELVE months intensive preparations paid off by a well-organized and smoothly-run Rally. A gathering of around 350 members from as far away as Whangarei, housed in 34 cabins, 40 tents and 10 caravans thoroughly enjoyed the programme arranged for their entertainment. One visiting family referred to the Rally as the best holiday that they had ever had. Remarks of this kind, which were frequently heard at the time, were the true reward to the team of dedicated workers who co-operated to make the Rally an outstanding success.

The weather started off with a drizzle and chill wind, but these were soon replaced with typical hot and calm days and many a rosy body proved this point.

Newspaper reporters and a TV team reported the event, each in their inimitable way, and several applications for membership proved the value of publicity. A representative national executive met to consider mostly the problems automatically associated with progress and this was evidenced by the application of two brand new clubs and the acquisition of grounds by three other new clubs. Others are in the process of formation as our wider acceptance is being acknowledged. In addition to the general progress, the financial position of the NZSA showed an extremely healthy position.

Swimming, volleyball, teniquoit and table tennis took up most of the daylight hours and the local club, practically swept the pool by winning most of the trophies. A demonstration of the English game of miniten was played on the newly sealed court and there is no doubt that this game will be popular in NZ where clubs have the space to devote to it.

A daily news sheet delivered to everybody each morning was appreciated and in addition to the information on the programme for, the day, bright comments and pithy pars made it most acceptable. The midnight oil burned by a few to make this possible was well spent.

Two happy innovations appreciated by all was the variety given the discussion session, when written questions were invited and a panel of "experts" under an able chairman, were given the job of expressing their views. A number of really "curly" questions about Father Christmas's beard, stretched bloomer elastic and so forth, together with a breezy commentary from the chair, kept the evening very bright. The other light touch was provided by 12 of the local club members who, dressed in all sorts of queer regalia, showed us a few refinements on the game of volleyball, where rugby, basketball, rough house and a bucket of water certainly lightened the proceedings.

A film evening, a youngsters' concert and fancy dress parade, an adult shipwreck dance, a revue which included a pantomime, "Off-White and the Three Bares" was most topical and enjoyable, and a bonfire and sausage sizzle rounded off a wonderful 4 days of "togetherness", proving how united the NZ nudist movement is.

Doug. Cousins 

• THE LINE UP FOR TEA AT ANOTHER NATIONAL RALLY

Mention must be made of the excellent canteen service, which among other things, sold 400 loaves, 40 doz. eggs, 64 doz. soft drinks, 1220 pints of milk, 30 doz. sausages and was open for business at all times. The NZSA executive also was supplied with a first class luncheon on the day of its meeting, the like of which has not been seen before.

Add to all this a most happy and friendly atmosphere, well-behaved youngsters, a good representation from most of our NZ clubs, unobtrusive but efficient organization and plenty of sunshine, you have an annual event that was outstanding in every way. The grateful thanks of all of us go to Canty. for a job well done. •

 

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THE BARE FACTS by a Canadian Reader   When God created man, Then made for him a mate; The trouble all began, When forbidden fruit she ate.   Their minds were pure and clean, Their bodies free from clothes; The very air they breathed, Was fragrant as the rose.   But then the tempter came, And told that awful lie: Come, eat this fruit he said, I know you will not die!   She disobeyed the Lord, And even from that day, Folks that on earth do dwell, Are paying in this way.   No more can people walk about, As we were born to do: We cover up from head to toe, Seems silly, but it's true.   Because the heart of man, Will ever be the same, It turns a thing of beauty Into one of lust and shame.   I'm glad that there still are some folks, Today whose minds are clean, Who like to frolic in the nude, The way is should have been.   Man may be clothed from head to toe, Or only in his skin; The outward side of man don't count, He's judged by what's within.

• "THE OUTWARD SIDE OF MAN DON'T COUNT, HE'S JUDGED BY WHAT'S WITHIN." - EVEN IF HE'S UPSIDE DOWN

 

 

  

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with Joan Treanor

 

AT the recent Rally held at Pineglades, we started a new innovation. The Youth present held their own junior session for an hour, and all clubs staying at the grounds had at least one representative present, and of the youth there, thirty-six were present.

This is a good beginning, and we are hoping to foster this movement at all future Rallies.

At first the meeting took a while to get under way, as I seemed to be doing all the talking, but once they started to "thaw" out with me, we soon had the suggestions and ideas flowing in freely.

I have made a list of all of these, and hope that you all might come up with either further suggestions, or improvements on those already listed. Also we could do with some helpful advice with regards to these things, as some members are not quite sure what to do to interest themselves in these ideas, but perhaps your suggestion could be of use.

• "SAY AH!"

One of the main improvements suggested was that more sports be allocated to them. Now I know that most of the bigger clubs have sporting facilities, but perhaps you haven't advised the adults that you would like the courts to yourselves at some time. Perhaps it would be advisable to mention this, as I am sure that they would be only too willing to be of assistance. Some of the ideas, like having soccer and such, were rather impracticable owing to ground space. However, I would like to see more swimming encouraged in the clubs especially swimming carnivals, which are so easy to run.

Social evenings and tramping trips were discussed, and these were felt to be an ideal way of keeping the Youth together, not only in one particular club, but by inviting others to join in with you. Social evenings during the winter months are certainly ideal in keeping Youth together. One doesn't need to hire a hall or hold it at the grounds, as I am sure there would be some willing parent in the club only too pleased to offer their home for an evening. And if everyone brought a plate, then there isn't too much work for your hostess to do.

There must be plenty of ideal tramping places nearby, and even some of the adults would be willing to join in this. I know that I heartily enjoy a decent hike, and I am no spring chicken.

Debates and discussion groups amongst yourselves or inviting other clubs is again a most excellent suggestion. Also the formation of your own Youth group in the club to arrange these outings and evenings, with perhaps the leader being changed every three months, so that all have a chance to make suitable suggestions. What about suggesting to your main committee that some of you are represented on the social committee? I am sure that they would appreciate you there, as you would be of assistance quite a bit with the socialising.

One idea that came to hand and met with instant approval, is that of holding a Junior Rally. It was suggested that this be held prior to the main Rally, but we rather feel that the host club has enough on its plate without involving it any further. Instead, it was approved for the May holidays, which gives us enough time to make all the arrangements and to raise some finance towards the trip. Now, full details haven't been gone into, but I am in the process of writing to all the clubs and getting their views on the suggestion.

• A MOTHER IN THE MAKING

It will probably end up more as a social trip in that we are hoping to visit as many of the grounds as possible, and we hope to make AOHC our headquarters for this first attempt.

Then if this is a success, we would perhaps hold it at the Wellington grounds next year. Again this is just a suggestion.

Now, it's all very well saying that we are going to hold this Rally, but you folk will have to help as much as possible, for after all it is yours and not the adults.

The main question is finance, and I am sure that if you make a genuine attempt at raising funds, your parents will be only too pleased to subsidise your fares. It was suggested that the South Island children have their fares paid entirely by their parents so that they will only have to raise the same amount as the North Islanders.

Some of the suggestions for raising money were: to have small weekly raffles, form a library in your club and rent out the books, bottle drives, helping in the canteen, and at your evening social, charge a small entrance fee. This won't hurt any of you, and if you get cracking now, by May you should have quite a bit saved. But please remember, if you want any assistance from your club or parents, you yourself must make an endeavour to start raising the necessary finance.

Well, this time there is certainly plenty of news for you, and lots of things for you to work on, so please do write to me for any inquiries and I will be in contact with all your clubs with regards to the forthcoming trip, and you will be advised on the progress.

Write to Aunty Joan, P.O. Box 6359, Wellington. •

 

 

No matter what happens, there is always someone who knew it would.

 

  

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Notes

from the

New Zealand

Sunbathing Association Inc.

 

THE 18th NATIONAL RALLY

This important annual event will be held at Oranui, the grounds of The Auckland Outdoor Health Club Inc. from 1st to 4th January, 1970, with the NZSA executive meeting on the 31st Dec. To those of you who have never beep to one of these big events, let us say right here and now, you are missing the holiday of a lifetime by not attending. There is plenty of room at Oranui, so why not plan a North Island tour, taking in the Rally as part of it? You will never regret it.

Southerners, pencil in your ferry bookings now for it is no trouble nor cost if you have to cancel later in the year.

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS

May we say a very big "Thank You" to all those kind people who sent Season's Greetings and cards. We sincerely appreciate the kindly thoughts expressed and wish we were in the position to personally acknowledge every one. This is a physical impossibility, for there are never enough hours in the day to cope with the volume of work that seems to come our way. Nevertheless your good wishes are heartily reciprocated and may we look forward to an even better year than before.

OVERSEAS MAGAZINES

We remind all readers that we are now in a position to supply NZ readers only with the well-illustrated magazine, Sun and Health at $7 per year of 12 issues Back issues as specimen copies may be purchased at 60 cents. Like British Naturism, which sells at $1 per year of 4 issues, it has coloured covers, splendid pictures and interesting articles.

We also have a number of back issues of American and other overseas publications, and while most of the American ones are fairly expensive, most of the others are not too costly. Send your money and request and we will do our best to help you. The Australian magazine, Solar, of which we have a large quantity of back issues, 32-46 (except 34), we are happy to sell at 15 cents to clear. As the retail price is 40 cents, this is good value for money.

THE LATEST NUDIST FILM

Amalgamated Theatres are currently screening a very short film, entitled "But Charlie Never Played Volleyball". While one wonders what this title has to do with the story, it is nevertheless beautifully presented in colour and depicts a Miss Nude Universe contest held at Oakdale Ranch in California, when contestants from various parts of the world posed in the nude for the best all-over tan, personality, beauty, etc. Publicity-wise, this contest has probably become one of America's best promotion schemes, especially as models, judges and the audience are all in the nude. Although the film is only just over 800 feet long, it can give the public some idea of the inside of a luxury nudist park and the screening of numbers of naked people is surely another step in the long process of familiarising the public with the nudist movement. As a true picturisation of a club in NZ, it falls far short of the mark.

INTERNATIONAL PASSPORTS AND GUIDES

INF International Passports may only be procured from this office. They are available to club members only and applications must come through your club secretary. The passport costs 50 cents and each annual stamp to be affixed therein costs another 50 cents. Passports must be held by each member over 18 and the name, address, occupation and year of birth are requested. For overseas visiting, these are essential and a Holiday Guide, which sells at $1.35 gives you all the particulars of overseas clubs, with maps and facilities.

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES

We all want our magazine to grow, to get bigger and better and thus attract more members into our ranks. This is already happening, but we want more. No magazine can survive without advertising or subsidies. We want more advertisements. You can help! Don't leave it to the other chap! We have a willing volunteer who is prepared to cover the Auckland district and we would like to have someone in at least the other main centres. In addition, you, the reader can help. If you know someone who could boost their sales or service, who could benefit by an ad. in this magazine, just drop us a line and we will be pleased to take it from there. Remember, this is your magazine.

LOST OR JUST MISLAID

The official colour slides taken by Ray at the National Rally at Pineglades in 1964 seem to have disappeared. If anyone knows of their whereabouts, will they please contact us. It is important that they be traced, so please check now. Did your club borrow them and not return them?

NEWS EXTRAORDINARY!!

Of the several outstanding decisions made by the NZSA executive at its last meeting, those pertaining to this magazine are by far the most important and significant of progress.

In addition to regular coloured covers from now on if possible, we will be introducing 2 issues, one with natural illustrations and the other as now. The natural edition will be available to all NZ clubs and those NZ subscribers and resellers who wish to accept it and the retouched edition to all Australian readers.

As practically all photographs on hand have been retouched, it will take a little while before we have a completely natural edition. We feel readers will be happy to wait for this improvement.

ADVANCED DEADLINE DATE

Please note, the deadline for contributions, reports and photos for the next issue is the 22nd March, not the 30th. The editor is going overseas for a well-earned rest.

PERC. COUSINS TRUST FUND

This fund is steadily growing and is already proving its usefulness by helping clubs to purchase their grounds. The last balance was $745.40 and we gratefully acknowledge the following donations up to the 31st December. Profits from sales of Hotsprings handbooks $2.40; Club levies $4.80; Interest on loan $5.35; Bank interest $11.60; WHC Auckland $1; Balance $777.05.

SYDNEY PIRATES

In a recent edition of Solar. we note with some disgust that a Sydney University students' newspaper, "Honi Soit", included a half-column article entitled "Intervarsity Nudism", which was illustrated by a photo of "the Queensland University Tennis Team". The article reported "the results of the first annual outdoor games competition".

What annoys us is that the picture was calmly lifted from this magazine, issue No. 45, depicting a group of Hawkes Bay Club members holding tennis racquets and captioned "Tennis has come to stay at Hawkes Bay Sun Club". That seems to us to be a pretty low form of plagiarism.

DISCLAIMER

In an issue of the NZ Truth last November, a reporter on the subject of skin cancer, said that the Dominion President claimed that the Cancer Society's warning about the dangers of skin cancer was "Rubbish".

We are not in the habit of making such statements and this is definitely untrue. What was said to the reporter in answer to his question, was that in his experience of nudism in NZ, he knew of no one who had suffered from this complaint. We would add that we have the utmost respect for the excellent work being done by the Cancer Society.

  

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COMPETITION

Here's an easy competition for all you budding artists, adult or junior. Just suppose you are the magazine's illustrator and the editor has given you this assignment: Imagine an artist's studio, with queer pieces of sculpture about. The artist has been working on an abstract sculpture from a nude model posing on a dais. Suddenly the gasman has come in to read the meter and the model has fled behind the sculpture for concealment. As there are numerous holes in the work, she reveals more than she hides, much to the delight of the gasman.

Now, draw that and see how clever you are. Just use black and white like the other cartoons in this magazine and we hope to be able to publish the best entries.

For children who have not reached their 12th birthday, there will be a prize of $1, and for the rest a prize of $2. Send your entries to the NZSA Competition, P.O. Box 6359, Wellington, by the 25th April. Even if you are not much of an artist, give it a go, for it costs nothing and it will be lots of fun. An outside authority will be the judge.

And here are the results of the last limerick competition. Of the entries received, we have had to divide the prize of $2 between two splendid answers. Here they are, first from Deidre of Westport, (yes, the sister of last issue's winner)

	"My dear," said the judge, "You're quite mad, To undress in public is bad - Join a naturist club Because there is the hub Of nude, happy days to be had."
And the other from Joy of Levin.
	"My dear," said the judge, "You're quite mad, To go to a camp with a grown up lad, For though you were nude, It may not be rude, It still would be hard to convince your Dad."

 

  

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Readershave their say ... 

 

FIGHTING TALK

I have been a naturist for many years, and a social naturist for only a few months. I feel and I know that these months have done a great deal for me; I have gained in both mental and physical health.

The turnover we have is a great help but it does not strengthen the movement or the clubs. Propaganda must be increased in the magazine; we must state our aims in every edition. We must say our aim is freedom of dress for all. We must get the freedom to wear little or no clothing, when we feel like it and where we like, every man, woman and child.

The recognized channels are the best, if done in the right way. Our only enemy is Mrs Grundy, and who is she? She is a very small person with a very loud voice. She is a few frustrated spinsters, a few wrong thinking church people, a few clothing manufacturers who feel they will lose trade. (They will not.) The rest are a few people with filthy minds who can only see filth.

I have been looking for an aim in life; a reason to live; I feel I have found it.

- LIONEL JACKSON, Wellington

VICTORIAN UPBRINGING

May I say how much I enjoy your published articles, for their open frankness and presentation. I have been a sun lover myself for many years, although I have not as yet managed to convince my wife to the joys and freedom and health-giving benefits of complete nudism and a natural way of life. She does however, like the outdoor life and needs to overcome a natural instinct from earlier upbringing.

May I wish the NZSA the best of luck in the future for bringing happiness and joy to many people, both young and old.

- JKC, Lower Hutt

SECRECY

I received my copy of The NZ Naturist today and I am writing immediately to protest formally about the Quote of the Month, which concludes with "... a secret nudist hurts, he doesn't help, the nudist movement."

A newcomer in any field is surely wise to keep in the background until he has found his feet and has accumulated knowledge and experience of his field that would result in his becoming a thoughtful and enthusiastic member with something of value to say when he does speak.

My own advice to new nudists is to go about the business quietly and, if you are trying to influence others in your family, do it very patiently and wisely. Enjoy yourselves so that the obvious benefit from your outdoor activities and your pleasure in new-found freedom might be self-evident and an answer in itself to such people as you may wish to inform of your activities.

When a nudist is thoroughly established, he may start to reason that if he (or she) could be less secretive and more open and honest about his beliefs he could have more freedom in his own home.

- WALLY B, Auckland

(The above are a few excerpts from a lengthy letter on the subject of whether we should be secretive about our nudist activities or no. We agree that a degree of secrecy is acceptable and perhaps wise on some occasions, but it still does not alter the fact that we and our movement are liable to be suspect when we do not admit our affiliation with the nudist movement. Ed.)

• HEAR NO EVIL, SEE NO EVIL, SPEAK NO EVIL

 

VICTORIANISM

I enjoy your magazine thoroughly and especially the True Naturist Experiences. Nude living fills a big part of my life and I am still hopeful of meeting a companion to share the joys of this recreation. My lady friend, I am afraid is much too set in her ways to convert, and I'm in the hopes of finding somebody else who will share my ideals.

- PW. Dunedin

NATURAL PHOTOGRAPHS

I have enjoyed reading the New Zealand Naturist for several years and have been very interested in the steady progress and improvement in the magazine since I first saw it.

One thing has continually annoyed me. It is the expression "unretouched" as applied to natural photos of nudists. Touching up a photograph for publication produces unnatural people, whereas only the photograph is unnatural.

If we referred to natural and unnatural photographs in our publications, I feel we would gain a great deal of support from the general public, many of whom think we choose to look at unnatural photos.

I admit privately however, that unnatural photographs are still better than none.

- GEOFF

 

 

  

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MANY years ago while in a news store browsing over the magazines, I saw a copy of a nudist magazine. I was just twenty years old then and I can well remember how I looked about me with a furtive glance to see whether anyone was watching me, but to my relief, no one was the least concerned at what magazine I was reading. Therefore I opened it and cautiously scanned through its pages. After a quick review of the pictures it contained, I picked it up, along with another magazine and paid for them. To my surprise no objection was made about selling the nudist magazine to me so I hurried home where I could take a more leisurely look at it.

I must confess that my first interest was the pictures. However, that was only a beginning. Now and then I would glance through it and each time I would toss it aside. Finally, one day I decided to read it That was when my ideas changed and a new interest developed. Soon, I was to discover through the constant reading of the many fine articles and editorials just what nudism meant and what it stood for.

Since that day I began purchasing my copies from the same store and they became my monthly pleasure. After a few months of reading, I decided to try nudism for myself. Never before had I been completely unclad except for bed and bathroom, but one bright sunny afternoon I cycled out into the country and found a secluded spot where I was quite sure that no prying eyes would be likely to surprise me.

Divested of my garments I sat down under the blue sky and bright afternoon sun to read a book I had taken along with me. It was wonderful to feel the warm sun and the fresh air on my naked body as I relaxed with a sense of complete freedom. Coming home that afternoon, I knew that I had been converted to the naturist way of life. With the joyful sense of freedom that I had found, I decided then that I would continue to take further outings as often as opportunity afforded.

I well remember the day I mentioned my experiences to the chap where I bought my magazines, telling him about how I felt on the subject of nudism. The result of my conversation with him ended in my converting one more to the nudist way of life. A day was set and we travelled to my secret rendezvous. This was the beginning of a new friendship and what became an almost weekly event during the summer months, which lasted through nine wonderful summers. By that time we had two others who had joined us.

Then came the war and we all joined various services and our weekly jaunts were ended. Those days, when the boys were able to get a beautiful tanned body while enjoying comradeship in a life we were most happy to share, became but a memory.

The end of the war found most of us married. It is unfortunate that we were not able to gather together again but changes were bound to take place in our lives. Some married elsewhere, some just disappeared. I was the only one left in this area.

It was a proud day when I took my wife out to see the combination volleyball and tennis court which we boys had built. The idea of nude sunbathing had been foreign to her up to that time, but we now find our way out to this spot and do our own sunning when time and weather permit.

During those many summers spent sunbathing the naturist way, I can honestly say that my resistance to colds and those ills that beset most people, was vastly fortified. I recall only one instance of having a cold, so if my experience is any proof of the good that sunshine can do for one, I can honestly recommend sunbathing to all who wish to build better health and leave the medicine on the shelf. •

• "... BUT SHE'LL NEVER BUY A NEW DRESS. SHE DOESN'T
GET THE SAME OPPORTUNITY TO SHOW IT OFF."

  

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The OTAGO SUN & HEALTH CLUB has been in existence for over 12 years and we can proudly say we still have some of the original members practising nudism today.

THE setting of the club grounds is in a very picturesque area of about 50 acres of native bush, which is the haven of many native birds such as bush robins, bellbirds, native pigeons, fantails, etc. Access to the club is good except for the last 200 yards or so, and there is ample parking available.

Our club is far enough inland to miss most of the coastal showers, so we can enjoy the sun while it may be raining in the city. Here in Otago, we are indeed fortunate that our peninsula coastline abounds in many fine isolated beaches which are seldom visited by people other than we nudists. Some of our members have been visiting these beaches for years.

We have a swimming pool, teniquoit court, sunbathing lawns, clubhouse, beautiful bush walks and many fine viewpoints of the Taieri Plains. One of the most popular walks is up to our natural waterfall. Children are catered for with a swing, see-saw, sandpit, etc. We are at present considering a volleyball court.

This year we hope to organize film and slide evenings, so this should help to keep members in touch with each other during the winter months, as well as the inevitable working parties, without which no club can prosper or improve its amenities.

One of our senior members can still remember the day when members of the cast of the Winifred Atwell show visited the club and spent a memorable day with us.

There have been many humorous incidents in the history of our club and one which comes to mind was when we were planning our pool. One of our members suggested that if we followed the slope of the valley with our pool floor, the shallow end could be at the lower end and we would only have to raise the walls at the top end. He took some convincing that it wouldn't work till the penny dropped and he realized water always finds its own level.

The enthusiasm of the early days takes some beating. Many a time our lady members, children, prams and all, huddled under some sheets of corrugated iron resting an manuka sticks, while the rain thundered down and the men continued toiling at the pool site in uniform.

In the early days of the club we used to hire a bus each Sunday and one of our members drove members to the grounds. Some of the members would slog for hours with sledgehammers and crowbars, even though this was work they were not accustomed to.

From the efforts of these, our senior and former members, we now have a club and a site of which the present members can be proud. •

 

 

"I had no shoes and complained, until I met a man who had no feet." - Arabian proverb

  

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ALONE IN THE SUN

by DJGN

Having been an active member for many years of various naturist clubs around the world, you can imagine how I feel at times as I relax in the morning sun on a secluded beach only four miles from my home at Maroochydore, on the Sunshine Coast of Southern Queensland - alone.

Why must I be alone on what must be one of the most beautiful expansive beaches I have ever seen around the globe, in ‘in area where the temperature changes only ten degrees - between winter and summer; where the mountains rise to a height of fifteen hundred feet only twelve miles from the coastline; where banana, pineapple, citrus, ginger and sugar-cane farms spread for miles, and where tourists from all parts of the world flock to, twelve months of the year? Because as far as I know, I am the only naturist in this region.

When I returned to Australia over two years ago, with my two children, I looked forward to joining one of two clubs in Brisbane, but was more !han surprised when I found out that twenty years of club life in the Philippines, England, France, Germany, Austria, Spain and Africa, did not entitle me to an introduction to a committee member ... applications were directed and the questions which had to be answered, assisted me in making the decision to remain a lone naturist. At the time, I had also pointed out in my letters that prior to returning to Australia, I had been secretary of the East African clubs, was overseas correspondent for Health and Efficiency magazine of England on club movement in East Africa, and for reference gave the president of the New Zealand Sunbathing Association.

• TWO AUSTRALIAN NATURISTS WHO ALSO ENJOY FREEDOM IN THE SUN

Then came the first breakthrough: last year I met the secretary of Solway, a small club outside Brisbane which I am told is slowly growing in number. Even here, although we correspond, and I have donated overseas magazines to the club, an invitation to visit the club grounds and meet its members has not been offered. As a last resort to get acquainted with the Australian movement, I have written to the secretary of Solway and suggested that some of his members be my guests for a weekend on the Sunshine Coast. Should this invitation not be accepted, then it would appear as though I will remain the lone naturist of the Sunshine Coast.

Some day. I hope that I will be in a position to forward a complete article on the sunbathing movement in Queensland, to my old friend, Perc. Cousins, but until that day comes along, I can only wish you all "on the inside" happy sunning. •

 

 

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SUN   CLUBS   IN   NEW   ZEALAND

 A  SERIES  OF  VITAL
INTEREST TO READERS

 

 

ARE you a slave to convention? "No," you answer vehemently, "certainly not!' Now I just can't help wondering how much consideration you really have given to this matter of conventionalised thinking. Unless you are a rugged individualist or an idealist, there is a pretty fair chance that you have unconsciously fallen into the trap of accepting and doing things without questioning them; we might even be able to say, without stopping to think about them at all.

As an example, let us turn our thoughts to our bodies, and it is to be hoped that all readers of this magazine are willing to do that, perhaps a little more than many others. If you are in the habit of doing things without stopping to think about them, you will no doubt answer, "Yes," to the following questions:

When undressing for bed or in preparation for a swim, do you always turn your back on others who might be near?

Do you always wear night attire?

Do you always lock the bathroom door?

Do you always wear bathing togs when going for a swim, even if you are in a secluded spot?

Do you regard the body as not quite nice?

Do you avoid a frank discussion of sex matters?

Do you have questionable thoughts when you look at pictures of nudes?

Have I convinced you? Let us look at an illustration to prove my point. A few years ago, when my daughter was about 15 years of age, I was swimming naked in our private pool, my girl and a male friend watching me. During my subterranean efforts, I saw and ultimately captured, the largest fresh-water lobster I had ever seen and knowing how pleased my daughter would be to see it, I walked out of the water to show her. She was very interested and after a thorough inspection, I freed it in a nearby creek and went back to my interrupted swim. A harmless little interlude, which was carried out as innocently as if we were admiring a hat in a shop window.

My friend said nothing at the time, but it came back to me later, through his wife, that I should have known better and should have been ashamed of myself, exposing myself before a young girl like that. He was apparently quite upset and could not make out what had possessed me to be so forward and thoughtless.

My wife and I have stopped to think about things and we believe that no one part of the body is any different from another. Admittedly, thoughtless people make a lot of fuss and secrecy out of the reproductive organs, but that still does not alter the fact that the organs themselves are no different from any others, for they have their particular function to perform and that's that.

We taught our children to grow up with this understanding and have always been frank and friendly with them on all matters pertaining to sex and kindred matters. Natural questions have been answered in language that could be clearly understood and as a result, our family, now grown up, has no curiosity about what we all look like, nor any mystery or misunderstanding around that vital but perfectly normal function, the sex act and the birth of children.

Going back to our illustration, my friend had obviously accepted the conventional ideas without question and had displayed this ignorance by voicing it. Don't be one of the crowd; don't let mass psychology control you. Think for yourself. Reason out your actions and do not fall into the trap my friend did; do not condemn until you have really gone into the matter thoroughly.

I remember an incident during the war that illustrates the point very well too. A WAAF who owned a plot of land near us, brought a couple of sergeants from her section one Sunday, to chop down some trees. It turned out a very hot day and she came to see if we would mind them having a swim in our pool at the end of the day's toil. It was accordingly arranged and later in the day she introduced us to two very hot and sweaty men, who looked at the water longingly. Sensing the position, she retired, leaving we three men on our own and I told them we never worried about wearing togs and invited them to do the same. Oh no! After messing about, they eventually dived in, wearing their underpants, that were absolutely no use as concealment once they were wet;

That was bad enough, but to cap it up, they stripped naked for a few minutes while they dried themselves and then went home with their underpants in their pockets. Silly, wasn't it?

• THIS GIRL RESPECTS HER BODY

I could quote lots more examples and so could you when you begin to ponder over it. And maybe you would be the star performer. Let us think about our bodies. Let us be proud of them, respect them and accept them for the masterpieces they truly are. If we are frank, we won't want to snigger and make coarse jokes about them. Rude pictures, smutty jokes, strip-tease artists and so forth will lose much of their glamour, for they only flourish among prudes and other undesirables and cannot succeed where all is open and above board.

By all this, I do not mean that we should exhibit ourselves naked at every opportunity or bring discredit on the fine people who constitute our nudist movement today. We must consider the feelings of others and be discreet, but at the same time, accept the body and its functions naturally, respecting the opinions of those who so far have not stopped to think; in other words, are still where you used to be before you had the jolt that shook you from your satisfied, conventional outlook. •

Previous titles in this series are: How to Join a Club, Naturism is a Family Affair, What you do at a Nudist Club, People You Meet in a Nudist Club, First Aid, Reactions, What to Expect in a Nudist Camp, Children in Nudist Camps, Love and Marriage, The Beginner.

Magazines containing these articles are available at half price from the NZSA.

 

 

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NATURISM IN NEW ZEALAND

from the NZ RATIONALIST AND HUMANIST

by ERIC FLINT

ONE of the major forward steps which our generation has witnessed has been the launching and the world-wide adoption of the nudity movement. After centuries of Christian tyranny, with its hatred of sex and anything which might in any way seem pandering to the flesh (culminating in the peak of that hypocritical anti-sex attitude, the Victorian era), the world was indebted to a courageous few (in Germany) who, before the First World War, extolled and demonstrated the benefits to mind and body of complete nudity, especially among others of like mind of both sexes and all ages. Needless to say, these ventures in nudity met with the usual venomous opposition of those self-elected guardians of morality, the Christian clergy of all denominations. Since there has never been a forward step toward civilisation and more freedom which the religious fanatics have not opposed, the move toward baring our "sinful" bodies met with special condemnation and fear.

It is not that, like a lot of other things, we cannot find Bible precedents for nudity. In fact, during the dark ages of Christian rule in Europe, there were some sects which took texts from the Bible seemingly authorising nudity and practised it in their daily lives and ceremonies. Their struggle for existence among the intolerant bigots can be imagined.

Later we had the rise of Puritanism and cruel intolerance had a field day. It gave expression to fundamental Christian hatred of the flesh. In these things, however, it operated its suppressions not so much because of inherent evils, but because of the pleasure experienced by "offenders"(?). As already stated Victorianism succeeded this age, but always, we may be thankful, there were those rebels against this religious obscurantism and in this case they ran counter to the most bigoted ideas of the Christian since it involved exposure of the body and the sex organs. That men and women could mingle in a state of nudity without sexual contact flew right in the face of religious teachings which for centuries had maintained that even with all manner of body covering, we naturally gravitated to "sin".

It wasn't long before these early exponents of nudity gave the lie to all dire predictions from inside and outside the churches and showed that nudity did not lead to immorality. Rather it demonstrated what the nudists had contended, namely that clothes and the partial hiding of the body tended to inflame and to excite the imagination. It is sad, but we still have among us many who have no use for the Christian way of life, but who, unconsciously perhaps, retain many of the religious moral values and echo Christian sentiments when it comes to morality and sexual codes. There cannot he any suppression of the sex instinct and the practice of social nudity does not mean that the sex urge is not a major interest, but it tends among the nudists to take a more rational place than with those who live in a closed "clothed" world. It is revealing commentary on the nudist movement and the fears of a moral decline by practitioners that they have to go to a strip tease show to see a sexy display since their own club activities do NOT provide a sex display anything like that money-maker of the clothed society, the strip show.

In a rational age when freedom of action and advance of knowledge is so widespread the great increase in nudist clubs is to be expected. It seems certain that never again can the churches clamp a prohibition on these things as they could in the not so distant past. Today their main interest seems to be to hang together else they will hang separately. The broader view has even penetrated to clergy, quite a few of whom have joined the nudist movement or given it their blessing. The world does move and nudists can take pride in the fact that their movement has more than assisted toward a more broad outlook in lots of ways. The Rationalist and Humanist have ever been the reformers fighting to improve the lot of their fellow men. Always it was the religious bigot who was indifferent or actively opposed. The old pattern has been borne out in nudity. The writer's attempt to begin a club over 30 years ago was condemned by some clergymen because it could be "morally dangerous" and a Roman Catholic clergyman said: "... the practice of nudism was most strongly disapproved of by his church and was in direct opposition to its teachings." Today we include "men of the cloth" in our nudist clubs. It is with a muted voice that the religious one condemns, when he does condemn, our movement today. The assurance, intolerance and bigotry of yesteryear are behind us and can never return, so it is that the Rationalist should be a "natural" for greater freedom from clothes and for nudity.

" ... FAMILIARITY WITH THE NUDE MUST LEAD TO A MORE BALANCED AND RATIONAL ATTITUDE IN THE END"

There is greater freedom in publication today and the nude in art and in ordinary magazines has much to thank the nudist movement. The nudist magazines can now be freely sold on the bookstalls in many countries and in most there is a fairly free distribution of unretouched nudist magazines. While sexy interest may be the interest of many who may get these magazines outside the movement, they can do no other than good since familiarity with the nude must lead to a more balanced and rational attitude in the end. It will be found, as already stated, that he who wants the thrills will have to go to the striptease show and not the nudist club.

  

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ODE TO AN ORB

by JOHN HEDLEY-BROWN
 

 

  

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DOMINION PRESIDENT

This brief history is concerned largely with the very early stages and development of the nudist movement in NZ. The more recent history is better known and has been and will continue to be, featured in these pages. The compiling of these notes has been a big undertaking and I am grateful to some of the early pioneers, and for newspapers, photographs, letters, etc., that have been placed at my disposal. In checking everything stated here, so far as I know, it is a true account, but it must be borne in mind that in sifting fact from fiction, I may have erred here and there. It is my belief that this history will form a true record of the movement started in NZ and its growth since. It should prove of great value in the years ahead.

NEW Zealand is favoured with more hours of sunshine than is the lot of many countries in the world and enjoys natural beauties that compare very favourably with other parts. Taking them, by and large, her people are reasonably broad-minded and the law is administered fairly for one and all. Yet, despite these very real advantages, the nudist history of this country left a lot to be desired some twenty odd years ago.

The reasons are not hard to find, for broadly speaking, they may be classified under two headings: insufficient education on the subject and the lack of leaders, with the right sort of courage and knowledge. John Citizen and his wife must first of all learn something of our ideals by one means or the other and after becoming interested, to have that co-ordinating influence to encourage them and put them in touch with others of a like mind. And that, roughly, is what was lacking in New Zealand in the early days.

The earliest effort I have been able to trace goes back when 15 members started a club in 1927 at Te Aroha and closed down 2 years later. Another venture was made in Auckland shortly after this but was similarly doomed to failure. Its folding up seemed to be cloaked with a certain amount of mystery, for some reports blamed the actions of an over-riding secretary, who, when deposed. spent much of his time putting the members in enmity with one another. I remember reading a newspaper report of one of their earlier meetings, when the reporter facetiously commented that when a gentleman removed his coat, the sign augured well for the new club. Such was the publicity of those days.

The year 1933 saw a group started in the South Island known as the Dunedin Gymnosophical Club, but Eric Flint its founder, still active in nudists' affairs today, suffered for his zeal. Being extremely enthusiastic, but unfortunately inexperienced, he advertised in the local Press and circularised sports bodies in the search for members. Such open publicity in a rather conservative city, on a highly suspect subject, only brought forth more ridicule and innuendo than was acceptable and after another year of ups and downs, still another attempt failed.

In 1936, another venture that should have helped the cause considerably, came into being in the form of a monthly publication, called "Health and Sunshine". Although its contents were also devoted to weightlifting, psychology and so forth, it allocated some space to correspondence and articles on nudism and was amply illustrated with nude studies that were quite daring at the time, but would not merit space today. During the few months of its existence, it filled a crying need, for enthusiasts and enquirers wrote in praising its aims and seeking information and knowledge of the movement. It was really beginning to do a great job as an avenue for centralisation and dissemination of news, advice and help generally, and had its life not been so abruptly terminated, I feel sure that this history would have been a very full one.

However, terminate it did, and the hopes of its correspondents were dashed to the ground, in many cases, not to be revived.

In April of the following year, still another attempt was made and promised to be the best to date. Four enthusiasts started this group with the name of The Auckland Sun and Health Club with the use of land at Titirangi. Advertisements brought in others interested or just enquiring, and meetings were arranged regularly in one another's homes during the winter, while work went on at the section during the summer. During the club's existence a membership of around 60 enjoyed its privileges and had it not been for the Second World War and its concomitant travel restrictions and the reduction in manpower, this club would no doubt have still been with us. As it was, these people had to ultimately close down in 1942, though some of them continued to get together whenever time and circumstances permitted. Eric Flint, having moved to Auckland, started "Kaurimu" in 1944, being the first permanent club in that city.

Rumours of clubs in various cities and towns in both islands were rife and circulated from time to time, but investigation proved them all to be without foundation. It must be admitted, however, that one group that used to meet on a river bed in Canterbury, has been proved, though where its members are now and what happened to it are cloaked in mystery.

It is also true that an airman friend claims to have seen groups of nurses sunbathing in the nude on the roofs of their hostels and other scattered parties on beaches and tracks far away from prying eyes, all of which goes to suggest that the benefits of complete sunbathing had been appreciated and realized, even though no official avenue existed.

Still another proof of interest was disclosed by the advertisements appearing from time to time in the newspapers from individuals seeking contacts. Some of these may have been genuine, but one in particular to which I replied in order to find out more, in 1943 was simply looking for mugs who would pay him 10/- a week for the deposit on a supposed site. But the desire on the part of a few courageous souls to spread beyond the confines of lone naturism showed the right spirit and though little or nothing came of such efforts, the spark was nevertheless there, waiting for something to happen.

Meanwhile the sale of two English publications were permitted and the spread of sane sunbathing by this means influenced many people by the common-sense presentation.

Early in 1945, after an article of mine had appeared in one of these magazines, a number of keen sunbathers in NZ wrote to the editor to find out my name and address. These particulars were passed on to them, and they eventually wrote to me, expressing their pleasure that someone was interested enough to write from this country and I thus began to learn about the position here and glean considerable information, some of which has been written here. I was happy to put enquirers in touch with folk in their own areas and as I was receiving overseas magazines on the subject, I was in a position to disseminate information and some advice.

• GROUNDS WITH LUXURY FACILITIES NOW EXIST WHERE GORSE AND
BLACKBERRY ONCE HELD SWAY. THIS IS THE WELLINGTON CLUB

This happy state of affairs continued and grew, and further articles brought in more enquiries, making me realize that it was necessary for someone to act as a sort of central office, from which people would not only be put in touch with one another, but through which new members might be encouraged to join. Thus I gradually drifted into a self-appointed organizer and everyone seemed to be happy at the prospects.

In 1946 I learned of the Kaurimu Club, with beautiful grounds in the Waitakeres and although they started off with unified activity, later on some of the members decided to organize on their own and they moved to a property not far away and became the Auckland Outdoor Health Club, affiliated with the BSBA in England, leaving the remainder to carry on as the Kaurimu Sun Club as it is known today. These two clubs continued to operate, the original one as a proprietary club and the other as a member one. Since then the Auckland Outdoor Health Club moved back to Kaurimu, where they leased a portion of that property until they eventually moved in 1956 to the grounds they now occupy and those members left behind became the Auckland Sun Club.

(To be continued)

 

 

The largest room in the world is the room for improvement.

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THE NEW ZEALAND

NATURIST

THE   LATEST   NEWS   AND   PICTURES

OF   THE   NUDIST   WORLD

 

• FRANK         • UPLIFTING         • HEALTHY

 

A MAGAZINE FOR ALL THE FAMILY

 

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Readers  may lodge  subscriptions  with their booksellers  if preferred  or

JUST SEND $1 for 1 year (Australian subscribers send money order for $NZ1.25)

Business Manager

N.Z. Naturist

P.O. Box 6359, Wellington, N.Z.

Back issues Nos. 33, 37-45 are available at half price.

Numbers before those at 5 cents each.

 

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(Top)

THE BOOK OF LIFE

by Health and Physical Culture
Publishing Co. Ltd. 1940

"On the surface it does seem incredible. Nudism is about the last thing any of us dream of indulging in. Haven't we all been reared in the centuries- old belief that the body is SIN? Have we not only just emerged from an era which clothed the limbs of pianos and put fig leaves on statues?

It would seem far more consistent with human behaviour if any of our respectable Friends went off and took to Drink, Mormonism, or Fletcherism.

We have learned to a certain degree to tolerate human frailty, and even the most dogmatic among us have been forced to admit that no man can be wholly without sin. But the most radical among us never for a moment looked forward to the day when he would give his considered opinion upon those of his friends who peeled off their clothing in mixed company and went about in what Arlen called "the altogether". Nevertheless, Nudism's here.

And what are we going to do about it?

No, the nude cult will ever remain for us Australians something to read about with a feeling akin to amazement and mirth. Yet in a small measure it is here ... adopted by a number of devotees whose courage, at least, must be admired."

(Now, 29 years after, nudism is established and organized and is growing day by day. Ed.)

 

THE HIGH TEMPLE OF STRIP

by Leslie Hannou

Referring to a strip club run by a man named Bernadin and amplifying our own argument, we read, "I don't like to see a body too starkly naked," he told me, "I like a nude to make you guess a little. The trick is not to shock but to induce the audience to think they're some place they are not supposed to be. Every number must be inspired, imaginative. There is nothing so dreadful as a naked woman standing stock still on the stage with an idiotic look on her face."

(Haven't we been advocating this argument for years? Ed.)

 

 

 

(Top)

CLUB DIRECTORY The secretaries of the clubs listed below will be pleased to hear from genuine enquirers. Please enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope. NORTHERN SUN SEEKERS P.O. Box 4126, Kamo. AUCKLAND OUTDOOR HEALTH CLUB INC. P.O. Box 2702, Auckland. AUCKLAND SUN CLUB INC. P.O. Box 2925, Auckland. KAURIMU SUN CLUB P.O. Box 20015, Glen Eden, Auckland 1. KOWHAI VALLEY CLUB INC. P.O. Box 6238, Wellesley St. W, Auckland 1. WAIKATO OUTDOOR SOCIETY INC. P.O. Box 619, Hamilton TAURANGA SUN CLUB P.O. Box 2205, South Tauranga. GISBORNE SUN CLUB P.O. Box 126, Gisborne. Phones 86-457, 4166 (day or night) HAWKE'S BAY SUN CLUB INC. P.O. Box 551, Napier. TARANAKI OUTDOOR SOCIETY P.O. Box 635, New Plymouth WANGANUI SUN CLUB P.O. Box 410, Wanganui. Phones, pvte 38-421, 33-123, bus. 30-858 WELLINGTON SUN CLUB INC. P.O. Box 2854, Wellington. Phone 826-132 NELSON SUN CLUB P.O. Box 467, Nelson CANTERBURY SUN & HEALTH CLUB INC. P.O. Box 1823, Christchurch. OTAGO SUN & HEALTH CLUB P.O. Box 2058, South Dunedin. SOUTHERN SUN & HEALTH CLUB INC. P.O. Box 486, Invercargill. Phone 541K Winton If you are not close to any of the above clubs, you may like to know that other naturists are ready to form clubs in the following areas: Rotorua (P.O. Box 1007) Blenheim Palmerston North Westport Masterton Timaru To contact them, write to:         N.Z. Sunbathing Association Inc.         P.O. Box 6359, Wellington

SOLAR incorporating SUN REVIEW        AUSTRALIA'S NATURIST MAGAZINE Profusely illustrated From your newsagent or direct from the publishers 40c per copy GOLDRAY PUBLICATIONS Box 2, P.O., Austral, N.S.W. Australia     Read and enjoy                         Health & Efficiency The   world's   greatest sunbathing  magazine  SCORES OF PLATES in every issue PLUS the official news and pictures of  all  British  Naturist  Clubs Full Colour Cover 16 issues yearly including 4 special DOUBLE SIZE extra numbers Send NOW for specimen copy, 3/- post paid or 50/- post paid for 12 months HEALTH & EFFICIENCY PLANT NEWS LTD 38 North Audley Street London, W.1, England

Printed by Martin Printing Co. Ltd, Napier, N.Z.

 

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Noted:- 

History: Early days of Naturism in NZ - Part 1 by Perc Cousins

History: Otago on the Move

Lionel Jackson "None so Deaf..."

Obituary: Dick Whittington

Eric Flint Naturism in NZ

17th Rally Christchurch - 1969
18th Rally Auckland - 1970

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Doug. Cousins 

• ONE FINGER TENIKOIT AT FIVEACRES

A. Leon Gilbert 

• APPROACHING MATURITY

Lawford White 

• SMILE PLEASE!

• LUNCH AT CORSICANA, CORSICA

 

 

• NUDISM IS THE SAME THE WOLRD OVER

A. Leon Gilbert 
 

Doug. Cousins 

• RELAXED AND CONTENED AT THE HAWKES BAY SUN CLUB

THE GROUNDS OF THE
OTAGO SUN AND HEALTH CLUB
 

 

A. Leon Gilbert 

• BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER

• NOTHING IS MORE NATURAL THAN TO SOAK
UP THE SUN IN THE PRIVACY OF ONE OF OUR OFICIAL SUN CLUBS.

FOR MORE DETAILS, DROP A LINE TO
YOUR NEAREST CLUB.

• SERIOUSLY - HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT OF JOINING A NUDIST CLUB? THERE'S A LOT TO BE GAINED AND NOTHING TO LOSE.

SEE THE LIST OF CLUB ADDRESSES ELSEWHERE

• CAVE MAN STUFF, BUT THE LADY
DOES NOT SEEM TO MIND

Michael Leonard 

• SUN VALLEY GARDENS, ONE OF THE MANY OVERSEAS CLUBS THAT WELCOMES VISITORS

Murray Wren 

• A SNAPPER SNAPPED

• "THERE IS A BAY WEHERE TIME STANDS STILL"

• A VISITOR TO THE SWIMMING POOL AT FIVEACRES

Doug. Cousins 

• NATURAL POOL AT AUCKLAND SUN CLUB

National Publicity Studios 

• BEAUTIFUL NEW ZEALAND

HARISON COVE, MILFORD SOUND. PEMBROKE GLACIER IS IN THE BACKGROUND

Photo: Doug Cousins

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