#  52 - September 1969 

[The New Zealand Naturist] Editors: An Auckland committee (Pages: 44 - 35c)

Contents:-

Tributes to our Late Founder
Our Second Half Century
Obituary: Percy Walter Cousins
So you can't Join a Club? by Doug Cousins
News From All Over the World - INF Presidency, America, Hungary, France, Portugal, Great Brittain, International Sport Meetings, Australia, Belgium, Corregenda
Talking to Women with Joan Treanor
How I Became a New Man by Norm Dyson
Talking About Books
Health in the Sun
NZSA Notes - Kaurimu Sun Club, Next Annual Rally, Disclaimer, Nudist Magazines Available, Commiseration, Perc Cousins Trust Fund
Quote of the Month
Readers Have Their Say
History: Naturism in NZ Part 3 by the Late Dominion President
The Junior Section with Joan Treanor
To the Beach - a poem by Gwen
Vale Karimu by Eric Flint
News from the Clubs (10)
Solinude
Directory: (15)

Noted

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	Registered at the GPO Wellington, as a magazine
	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

 

THE N.Z. NATURIST
Editor		Committee of Auckland members
Business Manager		Doug. Cousins
Copy Preparation		John Hedley-Brown
Advertising Representative		Barry Hill
Cartoons		Slim

 

Cover picture by Doug. Cousins

NEW ZEALAND SUNBATHING ASSOCIATION INC.

Acting President		Ivan Mowlem, Wanganui
Vice-Presidents		Jock Shoolbread, Auckland Jack Knowles, Auckland Norman Bell, Napier
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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TRIBUTES TO OUR LATE FOUNDER

In place of our usual editorial, we are this time reproducing extracts from some
of the condolence letters received by Perc's family and our national office.

"While it seems only the other day when I was first taken over to "The Whare", (Maori for hut) it was really over 35 years ago. I met Perc. on a couple of occasions and used his comfortable hut several times. I well remember the numerous signs including "The Bridge of Size". All the older trampers I know and have spoken to have read of his passing and have a kind word for him."

- A Member of Parliament

"Perc's work in all its spheres must continue. His example in every avenue of his endeavours was fine. Had some of his work been more publicly accepted, he would undoubtedly have been awarded some distinction - I feel he was already on the way to some such, by his uninhibited attitude to life and the more general acceptance of his views as seen by his recent contributions to the Indecent Publications Tribunal. He is not to be missed. He is not to be made the patron saint of either theatricals or naturism. He is not to be canonised. He is to be the example which others should follow. All the spheres of activity should be filled by others as quickly as possible so that his passing will not be a tragedy but a step ahead. Surely this would have been what he would have wanted.

The NZSA must be guided, especially in the early days, by the thought of what Perc. would have done. With that policy nothing will fail - there will be a redistribution of strength. From this will come a stronger movement, bound together by the revelation of how much Perc. achieved during his lifetime. God, ever-present Good, is with all of you at all times.

- LA, Australia, ex-Wellington

I shall always remember Perc. as a man who loved life and lived it to the fullest extent possible. His many and varied talents will be greatly missed in the organizations to which he devoted so much time and energy. If these organizations, particularly the NZSA and its associated clubs, continue to grow, as I believe they will, they will be a fitting tribute to Perc.

I enjoyed very much my association with Perc., both in the field of drama and within the NZSA, and will miss his helpful influence and guidance. One of my main regrets is that our friendship should have been so short."

- DNJ, Wellington club

"I had the privilege of both meeting and corresponding with Perc. and always had a profound admiration for his consistency of purpose. However, his monument comprises a tower of salutary good deeds and I trust awareness of this will help you in adjusting to your sad loss and in carrying on his good work."

- PC, Auckland Book Distributor

"He was the backbone of the naturist movement. He was an educated man and very understanding, and the praise and thanks for his past good work cannot be too high." - TM, West Coast, ex-Canterbury club

"We first met when rehearsing in 1944. Perc. was always so kind and encouraging to us at these rehearsals and we had a great respect for him. He will be sadly missed as he gave so much of himself and his time to drama."

- ES, Wellington

"I never did meet Perc., but knew of him as early as 1947. By 1952, I knew that he had openly declared his beliefs, and was prepared to stand up for those ideals, even in a court of law. His able defence of all the ideas he and others held so dear, must have convinced many doubters.

There were few men indeed in those days who would publicly acknowledge membership in the naturist movement. Perc's able and fearless leadership over the years, not only built the movement into a dignified organization recognized throughout the whole country, but indeed played a part in shaping the thinking of all New Zealanders.

In winning acceptance for the nudist movement, he did much to encourage sane, clear thinking on all moral and social matters within New Zealand. He struck a blow for all minority groups. Much of the freedom in literature and films is indirectly due to his clear and fearless defence of the rights of individuals to live their lives in their own way.

I doubt that any pioneers have accomplished more."

- IME, Hawkes Bay, non-club member

"Your family was the first one we met in this country when we arrived and we did and still do think of the kindness you showed us when everything around us seemed strange and new. The sun club will miss him immensely and he has undoubtedly left his mark."

- LM, Wellington club

"We still remember with pleasure the days when we met regularly in the Concert Chamber or some other bleak rehearsal room, and shared a common interest. With Perc's passing, Wellington amateur theatre will be that much poorer, for he gave a great deal of his time and thought - a great deal of himself in fact - to it."

- RW, ex-member The Thespians

"Perc. was always so full of vitality - when I think of the years of hard work he has put into dramatics I wonder he could sustain such great interest and courage to continue. I shall always remember the fun we had at rehearsals: we could rely on Perc. to come up with every detail."

- GG, member Peter Pan Players

"Although I never met Perc., I felt that I knew him, as he wrote such nice letters, and always had the courtesy to answer every letter. I am sure that he will be greatly missed by all NZ naturists, and perhaps more so by all the isolated naturists who may have corresponded with him. People like him are their only contact with the movement."

- NCD, West Australia

 

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This is issue No. 52 but it is the first to include pictures that are unretouched. For many years we were under the impression that it was unlawful to print natural photographs, but our experience last year with the Indecent Publications Tribunal proved it to be otherwise. And further, as members of the Tribunal said, they "are inclined to deprecate the practice of painting out pubic areas in health and naturist magazines, and we do not believe that the Act requires that young people be kept in ignorance of the appearance of the adult form". "We are aware of the present tendency towards acceptance of more liberal standards and we are also aware of the dangers of too rapid change. It is our view that the Act as well as the community requires us to keep a balance between necessary protection and individual liberty."

The nudist movement appreciates this liberal and fair attitude and as a result is pleased to accede to the request from so many of our readers that we display the courage of our convictions and print natural pictures of people as we know them in our well-conducted clubs.

But let us make it quite clear that it will never be our intention to exploit this concession, as is done by some publishers in the world today. Official nudism is, and (we hope) always will be, a dignified approach to the unclothed body and all our pictures will be in the best taste and unlikely to offend any but the most prudish.

However, until the stock of photos that have already been retouched is used up, it will be a little while before we can publish a completely natural edition. We do hope, in the meantime, the change-over will be appreciated by all our readers.

In conclusion, just a note to our hundreds of Australian readers. Your Customs authorities would not approve this forward step and we therefore have to go to the extra expense of providing you with a retouched edition. When you can persuade them to adopt a more liberal attitude we will be happy to forward to you the same edition that most of the rest of the world is receiving. •

- Perc. W. Cousins

 

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OBITUARY

The passing of a pioneer -

Percy Walter Cousins

by Aubrey M. Fitton

THE LAST PICTURE EVER TAKEN OF PERC., FOR HIS 1969 PASSPORT

The passing of Perc. on 22nd June, 1969, marked the end of an era - an era of fighting for a cause - characterised by the dogged determination, perseverance and steadfast dedication to a principle of one man in particular, the like of which is not often seen.

In the passing of my old friend and fighting companion, the chapter has ended and a page has been finally turned.

For to Perc. belonged the credit for building up a strong and united sunbathing movement in this country, to which it is now a joy to belong. There had been several other earlier attempts to introduce nude sunbathing in New Zealand, but they were not successful.

Born in Northampton, the son of a tailor, Perc. early showed some of his talents that were evident throughout his whole life. His family still holds his earliest successful art work at the age of 6, and his first appearance on the stage was at the age of 5. Over a short period he was a Boy Scout. For two years he served time as a plumber, but it was his interest in art that led to his career as a sign writer. His apprenticeship agreement signed in 1918 shows he started work on 15/- a week. To cap it all it was in the middle of the depression that he started his own business, which prospered because of those characteristics for which he became so well known.

Perc's interest in the out-of-doors became very pronounced in the twenties whilst he was a member of the Tararua Tramping Club. His achievements included scaling the North Island's four highest mountains. It was common for he and his father (plus his wife later) to pack a fortnight's supplies on their backs and go into the wilds, relying on their fishing lines and rifles for meat.

This love of the outdoors led to Perc's interest in naturism, and in the thirties his family spent two weeks every Christmas 40 miles from the nearest shop. With the war they looked nearer home and bought the section that was to be the start of Wellington's sun club.

Another aspect of the twenties was Perc's active membership in various capacities in his church. Gardening took up a lot of his time, for it was usual for the family to have their own vegetables all the year round. Still another interest was music, Perc's specialty being the flute and piccolo. He was a member of several bands and orchestras. In this capacity he visited a number of charitable and welfare organizations to entertain the residents. Later, for 14 years, twice a year, he produced three-act plays that were read to residents of hospitals, penal institutions, charitable and welfare organizations. The war years saw him in many concerts put on for the troops (his health caused him to be graded C III for Army service). He even appeared in movies and on the radio.

His interest in theatricals included producing, acting, adjudicating and even writing plays. It was partly through his own enthusiasm that the Peter Pan Players, of which he was a member for over 32 years, now holds the position of being the oldest amateur theatrical group in Wellington that is still active.

My first memory of Perc. goes back to 1945, when an article from his pen appeared in Health and Efficiency describing his delightful little sunbathing retreat in Stokes Valley. Came the year 1948, I met Perc. in the flesh and became acquainted with the small group then gathered around him, a group which had been meeting at various places on weekends and holidays. They persuaded me to join them for the sake of my health.

Shortly after this came the actual formation of the Wellington Sun and Health Society, with Perc. as president, his son Doug. as treasurer, myself as secretary and a small membership of men, women and children, totalling about 30 strong. There are now, with the passing of Perc., only five of the original members, men, women and children, still in the Wellington Sun Club as it is now called. The others have dropped out; quite a few have passed on.

The newly-formed club met at three sunbathing sites in turn, at Wainuiomata, at Perc's property in Stokes Valley, and at my own retreat, close to the present Wellington Sun Club site called Fiveacres.

PERC. AS SO MANY MEMBERS WILL REMEMBER HIM AT OUR NATIONAL RALLIES - THE DEEP TAN, THE WHITE HAT, THE READY SMILE

Those were fighting days, and Perc. was a keen fighter and an indefatigable worker.

He fought for the right of the individual to sunbathe in the nude in mixed company without interference; he fought against prejudice; and he fought for, and gained, official respect. It must have been the crowning glory of his life when at last members of the sunbathing clubs of New Zealand enjoyed the recognition and freedom for which he had always worked so hard and the friendship and approval of so many outside the sunbathing movement.

It was apparent from recent discussions with Perc. that he felt an overwhelming pride to see the movement to which he had dedicated his life grow beyond his wildest dreams with the influx of members, mostly families, from all walks of life, and the development of club facilities to a very high standard in the major clubs.

There were many annoyances and embarrassing little incidents in the early days when Perc. and his small band of helpers had to make decisions and take action to preserve our group and the dignity of sunbathers in general: the peeping Toms found lurking around our grounds, the vandals who made life so difficult by their damage and destruction of property, the jibes of the ignorant and prejudiced. All of these and many other problems had to be met and dealt with in those early days, and Perc. rapidly became an expert in contending with them, also in sorting the wheat from the chaff in screening applications for membership.

The difficulties, not merely of building up the movement, but of combating public misunder-standings and ill-will in the early history of the movement, may have become distant memories to those left who experienced them. Those who did not experience them - the comparative newcomers - would find it difficult to believe the problems and actual and very real opposition with which we had to contend and against which Perc. courageously pitted his strength, lending his name at a time when almost all members of the movement preferred to remain anonymous.

During this time, Perc., who had already commenced making introductory tours of sunbathing groups wherever they existed in New Zealand, was busily engaged in helping to weld these independent groups together into a united and strong national movement. He visited and corresponded with all groups, helped establish rules of conduct to ensure safety of the movement, introduced groups and individuals to each other, and corresponded regularly with overseas organizations to keep the sunbathing world informed concerning naturism in this country.

The national organization as such was finally born, with Perc. as president, rallies were organized and clubs got to know each other and lost their feeling of isolation. They shared the security afforded by a strong national organization, with strength in numbers and the moral support of other club members throughout the length and breadth of New Zealand, and so a New Zealand-wide sunbathing organization as we now know it came into being.

As one of the editors of The New Zealand Naturist, again Perc. succeeded in building up something worthwhile. From small beginnings, the journal has grown to occupy a proud place as an excellent magazine production; yet there have been times when some thought that it could not possibly succeed.

Members will have read all about the Ohau Beach trip, which was attended by Perc. Whatever criticisms may have been levelled at this experiment, and however justified some of these may have been, we learnt much from it. We found out what we could do, and what we could not do. Generally speaking, those who participated would not have missed the experience for anything. When the police car arrived, most members dived for their clothes, but not Perc. Still nude, he walked up to the car and with one or two others, accepted the brunt of the disapproval which was at first apparent. Largely through his good efforts, our face was more or less saved and an atmosphere of friendliness pervaded our discussions with the authorities. Through our experience we were able to reach some conclusions as to just how much of our activities other people will now accept, and where we stand in the public mind.

There have been times when I have not agreed with Perc., times when I have even actively opposed him, but throughout our long association, he earned my profound respect. I know of no one else with such singleness of purpose, nor anyone I think could have achieved what he achieved. It could thus prove exceedingly difficult to replace Perc. in many of the roles in which he served.

Indeed, Perc. was a man of many parts, whether in his official capacities as national president of the NZSA, and editor of The New Zealand Naturist, in his role in maintaining a liaison with other organizations and the general public, his sitting in by invitation on the deliberations of the Indecent Publications Tribunal, the many addresses which he gave to various groups, or his less formal roles on the stage at Fiveacres, at children's parties, helping to conduct rallies, or what have you, Perc. was always there to plug a good line, win official recognition for us all, or just to entertain us.

In more recent years, Perc. had to restrict his activities for health reasons, but he lived a full life span, and his quiet unassuming front concealed the heart of a lion, and an unselfish generosity toward anyone less fortunate than himself. An example of this was the selling of his Stokes Valley property when it became apparent that it was too small for the fast-growing club, and later guaranteeing the club against loss on an unsatisfactory site it owned at a time when finance was desperately needed for a better site.

The first trophy to be presented for national competition was the Perc. Cousins Teniquoit Trophy, still being competed for annually.

The fifth national rally at Wanganui was the only rally Perc. did not attend, as his old heart, to quote his own words: "just wouldn't take any more". It was at this rally that the national officers established, in recognition of his services to the naturist movement, the Perc. Cousins Trust Fund, which is available for any worthy cause within the naturist movement in this country. The NZSA executive is the trustee of this fund. The support of the many members of the clubs will help not only to perpetuate his memory but to carry on his good work.

In passing, at the age of 68, Perc. has left behind something worthwhile by which he will be remembered. As we enjoy the many privileges of membership of a happy and healthy organization, we can afford to spare a thought for one without whose efforts all of this may not have been possible. All of us will feel sad that at last Perc. - a legend in his lifetime - has left us.

Perc. is survived by his wife Phyllis, his son Douglas, and his daughter Gae. •

 

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So you can't join a club?

by DOUG. R. COUSINS

"I can't join a club as there isn't one in my town." "The nearest club is 60 miles away." "I live in the country and don't get much chance to go to a club even if I could join one."

Often do we receive letters at the national office with these plaintive tales. We have been able to assure these people that they CAN become members of our clubs, and thus participate in their activities, as well as visit other clubs whilst on holiday, with the same rights and privileges of the ordinary members. Here's how.

Most of our clubs have long realized the difficulties of many people in not being able to participate in club activities very often, and not wishing to become members partly because of this factor, and also the expected cost of annual subscriptions. They have a special class of membership expressly to help these people.

This is known as country membership. It is open to anyone living too far from a club to be able to 'attend very often. As a general rule, the rights and privileges of country members are the same as for town members. The main difference is in the scale of annual subscriptions. Clubs allow for the fact that country members live so far away from club grounds, and as a result t,he attendances of these members is much less frequent than for town members. In consequence the scale of subscriptions is much lower for country members.

Club rules no doubt vary somewhat over details of country membership, but the above facts will explain the general principles.

So to those who have no club in their town, or people living in the country or too fair from a club site, now is the time to approach the nearest club for membership. Don't delay, as the sun is getting stronger every day, with plenty of hot weather ahead of you.

 

It was recalled in Woman's Realm that children in Sweden wore no clothes on the beach, yet when eating ice creams and so forth, their mothers put spotlessly clean serviettes round their necks.

 

 

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NEWS & VIEWS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD

 

INTERNATIONAL NATURIST FEDERATION                

The new INF President is Mr Michael Caillaud, who like his predecessor, Mr Gilbert Sarrou, is the President of the FFN, France's national association.

It is with deep regret that we have heard of the death of the Rev. Ilsley (Uncle Danny) Boone, a former editor of Sunshine and Health magazine. His position in American nudism is not unlike our own Perc. Cousins in this country. He died at almost 90 years of age.

The authorities have allowed the development of a naturist ground at Balaton Lake, only 200 kilometers from Vienna.

The progress of naturism in France is such that the number of members of the FFN has doubled in about the last 5 years. The average length of membership is only 5 or 6 years, and many of the older members find themselves today in the midst of a considerable throng of new recruits who came to naturism mainly to find an escape each weekend, especially during the summer holidays.

Thanks to the establishment of some hundred naturist grounds and numerous holiday centres, French naturism has obtained a recognized place in the general movement associated with open-air activities. In some cases, the local authorities have insisted on the formation of new naturist holiday centres in several regions of France.

As a result of the progress, the FFN has had to examine the whole structure of naturism in France. The world has so changed in the 40 years of organized naturism in France, that the newer members do not find ready answers to the value and need for naturism nowadays. Many involved questions are being considered. One is the growing difficulty of obtaining suitable land for clubs, and the possibility of adapting naturism to more urban districts, whether in a general social atmosphere or in developing "artificial" (as distinct from "natural" i.e. bush sites such as we have) sites provided by man, such as sun decks, pool, etc. With the ever-growing population in already over-populated parts of Europe and the difficulty and cost of transport to normal clubs, this survey might be of value to New Zealand in future years. How many?

A naturo-vegetarian organization which considers life in the open and camping an important part of its activities has been formed and affiliated to the INF.

The next World Congress of the INF will be held at the North Kent Sun Club in 1970. North Kent last acted as host to a very large gathering at the Festival of Naturism in 1951.

English clubs seem to experience a problem similar to one we are trying to avoid in New Zealand. In their case it is continental visitors who do not write in advance to the club they wish to visit. They expect to be admitted to the grounds simply by showing their INF passports. English clubs deprecate this practice as we do here.

The INF has reported several of these events: swimming and various sports in several countries, and one set aside solely for volleyball. What a pity we on the other side of the world could not send teams representing our country.

It is understood that the Australian magazine Solar is now to be published quarterly and not 6 times a year as previously.

There appears to be a conflict of personalities in this country, as there are three "national associations" and a fourth has been formed. The application for affiliation to the INF for this latter has been declined. It is known as the Belgian Saunabond, Deurne.

The INF World Survey reported in our last issue was not quite Correct. The number of clubs for France should have been 192 and Germany 130: certainly a lot more than little "old" New Zealand.

Parthenos 

A GALA DAY AT THE NORTH KENT SUN CLUB, VENUE FOR THE NEXT INF WORLD CONGRESS

 

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with Joan Treanor

 

Well, the months are going by, and still I am waiting for those letters and news items from the keen ones at the last rally at Christ- church. I rather think that I shall have to give up time visiting you all personally to make sure that I do get them. I know that when you read this page, you get a guilty feeling once more, as so many of you have told me.

Unfortunately, this feeling doesn't last very long though, as I still don't get those letters. I advise my postman every time that a magazine is due out that I shall shortly be inundated with piles of letters, but what happens? I get a trickle in mostly from males and more important, from overseas males at that.

Very poor, ladies. There is only one thing for it. I shall have to hand over this position to someone who can really get you so interested that you will write, and write straight away, and not never as the case is. What a blow for me. To have to give up all this because apparently I am no use as a person that is supposed to bring the women of the movement closer. Oh, well, when I first started this page ten years ago, the men scoffed then, and informed me that women can talk, but otherwise are useless, and it looks as if I will have to accept defeat and prove them right for a change.

I have left sunny Christchurch and am living at the present in wet, windy Auckland. However, I must admit that I have seen the sunshine occasionally. Usually it shines first thing in the morning and I get up bright and early with great ideas of working out in the garden. But by the time I have finished the housework and collect the gardening utensils, the sun laughs at me and goes inside. But I must admit that Auckland does provide me with plenty of exercise. I hang out the washing in the sunshine and half an hour later, it clouds over, so I rush madly down the stairs to bring it all in again. Shortly the sun appears again, and once more I am down the stairs hanging it out. This procedure goes on all day, until finally a weary me brings in the washing ... dry?

Never did I realize how fortunate I was in living so close to a club, as I was there more often than I was ever at the house. Now, however, it's a different story as we are so far away from any of the Auckland clubs and half the day is wasted packing up to go out, as I just can't arrive and find everything in my cabin as before, and what a nuisance having to pack lunches, etc. Now I can really see why women were so envious of me before, and ladies, I must admit that I really miss those pleasant hours of solitude at the grounds. Unfortunately, the NZSA won't pay my fares to Christchurch every weekend, so I shall have to put up with this arrangement and hope that it isn't too long before we get posted back to Christchurch and the cabin at Pineglades.

Ladies, now is the time to get talking to those friends of yours that would be interested in joining the movement but are a little reluctant to do so. Often it is only a small push that is needed to get another new member, and seeing that you enjoy yourself at the clubs so much, you could always help another to receive the same pleasure. We are asked continually what do we really derive from the sun clubs and I can answer better now that I can't take the club for granted, for I miss that relaxation that 'I had so much: the wonderful freedom of relaxing completely without the restriction of clothing; to be able to mix with people with the same interests and not have to worry what your neighbour thinks about your activities; to see the children so happy and without a care. I really think that the club took years off my age and helped me to feel younger.

I am sure that if I didn't belong to the movement but only had the beaches to go to for relaxing, that I wouldn't be happy there, nor would I go so often as I would be so conscious of my figure. That certainly wouldn't win a Miss Universe contest. I never think about my bulges, my scars, or anything like that when I am either lying in the sun or participating in sport.

There are others, surprisingly enough, who are worse off than I, and I know that they too are completely without worries as to who may be looking at them. For this is one big thing in the movement. Beyond a fleeting thought that so and so is either white, too burned, or has a lovely tan, not much is thought about the actual figure. I have been in the movement for many years now, but I doubt whether I could describe exactly the figures of my best friends there, be they female or male. I just value their friendship, not what they look like.

Well, ladies, I had better start writing out my notice of termination before I receive a dismissal notice instead. Thank goodness, these articles are written on a voluntary basis and not paid on the strength of letters received as my family would all be dying of starvation.

Joan's address is P.O. Box 6359, Wellington. •

 

 

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"I'm sorry, but there is nothing we can do for you. You are full of arthritis, especially in your neck and lumbar region. You will just have to take things easy, take what exercise you can, and aspirin to relieve the pain. We will get you on a pension."

This was my doctor's verdict, back in 1954. Not so good. I just had to give up my work, as an orderly, in the hospital.

Now, if I were a writer, I could, no doubt, make a story out of this, but as I am not, I will just try and give you my experience with rheumatoid conditions and naturism. I am just not the type who gives up easily, and having been an ardent physical culturist in my youth, I knew just about all there was to know about muscular exercise, and I made full use of my knowledge. I also made a study of raw vegetable and fruit juices; in fact, I think I tried everything possible.

ALL CHILDREN LIKE PETS, WHETHER THEY HAVE 4 LEGS OR 2 WINGS

Now, without going into all the tribulations, etc. over a long period of time, I eventually overcame most of my trouble, except the osteo-arthritis in the neck and what seemed to be a chronic condition of fibrositis, in the lower lumbar region and buttocks. Then one day, about two years ago, I had a day's shopping to do in Perth, and was very tired, and having a bit of heart trouble, I was just going into a bookshop to get something to read on the train, when I remembered that I had to go some distance to buy a part for a polisher friend, and that I did not have much time. After doing this, I went back past the same shop, as it was on my way to the station.

Now, I have always been interested in anything to do with nature and, as stated, I didn't have any time to waste, so, when I saw 'New Zealand Naturist' in large black print, I, at a quick glance, read it as 'Naturalist' and didn't even notice the photo on the cover, (No. 40) in fact. Well, after reading the daily paper on the train, I got the little mag out of my case and had a good look at the cover picture, and also the title.

Now, not only had I never seen a naturist mag. before, but I had never heard of naturists either, so it was quite a surprise to see the inside cover. I will not say I was shocked in any way, because I have always had a leaning towards nudism, and done my swimming nude whenever I could. So when I say that I was surprised, I mean it was a pleasant surprise. By the time I had reached the end of my 125 mile trip home, I had read NZN right through, I think it was three times, and the message really got home.

By the end of the week, a year's subscription was on the way. Unfortunately, as Doug. will remember, I had quite a lot of trouble getting my first copies, for one reason or another, which didn't seem to be anyone's fault really. and I was firmly launched on my naturist adventure.

THE AUTHOR AND HIS WIFE "ON WALKABOUT" IN THE WEST AUSTRALIAN BUSH

I have always been fond of swimming, but, for many years, have been unable to enjoy it because of the pain suffered afterwards in my back, but after reading about naturism, I got to thinking and realized that the only part of me that suffered was that covered by bathers, so, the next step was to get out in the bush and try it nude. The very first time the advantage was noticeable, for I did not experience any discomfort after a whole afternoon in and out of the water. This seemed to indicate that laying around in wet bathers was the trouble as far as swimming was concerned. As to the rest, by the time I had acquired a good suntan, I was feeling better than I had for some fifteen years, but unfortunately, by that time our summer was over, so there seemed nothing for it but an ultra-violet lamp.

Now I don't know how other naturists get on with these lamps, but I find that they seem to burn in one particular spot, while surrounding parts don't even tan. In any case, I am firmly convinced that there is no lamp made which can compare with nature's lamp up there in the sky.

I am a lone naturist more or less, as I have been unable to contact others of like mind round here, but while it would be nice to meet some of our people now and then, my main interest is in the benefit that I get from naturism in the way of health. Being quite sure of that, no matter what else happens, I will be a naturist for the rest of my life.

To anyone who suffers from rheumatic or nerve trouble, I most strongly advise them to give naturism a fair try. Are you sensitive about being nude? Don't worry, you will forget it in half a day, probably less. •

(This writer would like to hear from any other naturists in Western Australia. We will be pleased to forward enquiries. - Ed.)

 

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FARNHAM'S FREEHOLD by Robert A. Heinlein

"Hold it," interrupted Hugh "We need a No Blushing rule. Here we are crowded worse than a Moscow apartment. Do you know the Japanese saying about nakedness?"

"I know they bathe in company," said Karen, "and I would be happy to join them. Hot water! Oh, boy!"

"They say, 'Nakedness is often seen but never looked at'. I'm not urging you to parade around in skin. But we should quit being jumpy. If you come in to change clothes and find that there is no privacy why, just change. Or take bathing in the stream. The person available to guard might not be the sex of the person who wants the bath. So ignore it." He looked at Joseph. "I mean you. I suspect you're sissy about it."

 

LIFE IN RUSSIA by Vice Admiral Leslie C. Stevens

"Whilst I was cleaning the fish, a whole family arrived besides us, undressed completely, and slid into the water . . . The soldier's girl came out of the water and started to dress. It was growing dusk, and soon it would be hard to unrig the sods, so we finally folded up and left, a little reluctant to leave so idyllic a place. And one of the most idyllic things about it was the complete lack of self-consciousness, together with the complete modesty, with which those Russians undressed, went gleaming into the dark river, came shining out of it, and again dressed themselves. There is no basic incompatibility between nakedness and modesty, and those people showed that they knew this instinctively."

 

THE PROPHET by Kahlil Gibran

"And the weaver said, Speak to us of Clothes. And he answered:

Your clothes conceal much of your beauty, yet they hide not the unbeautiful.

And though you seek in garments the freedom of privacy you may find in them a harness and a chain.

Would that you could meet the sun and the wind with more of your skin and less of your raiment.

For the breath of life is in the sunlight and the hand of life is in the wind.

Some of you say, "It is the north wind who has woven the clothes we wear."

And I say, Ay, it was the north wind,

But shame was his loom, and the softening of the sinews was his thread.

And when his work was done he laughed in the forest.

Forget not that modesty is for a shield against the eye of the unclean.

And when the unclean shall be no more, what were modesty but a fetter and a fouling of the mind?

And forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair." •

 

Two small boys at a modern art exhibition stared at a wildly abstract painting. One of the youngsters muttered to the other: "Let's get out of here before they say we did it."

 

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•   CHILDREN AND CARS

Several tragic reasons why youngsters should not be allowed to play around cars are quoted in an Australian publication:

• A three year old girl, playing in a station wagon with automatic window controls, put her head out the window and pressed the button that raised it. She was choked to death.
• A little girl released the brake on a car parked on a sloping driveway. It rolled across the street and struck a kerb. She was thrown out of the door and fell under the wheels, where she was crushed.
• A little boy removed the petrol cap on a car parked in a driveway. Later, while playing under the car, he struck two stones together, creating a spark that set off an explosion. He was disfigured by burns over his whole body.  
   

•   SUN TAN SENSE

Don't let the sun SPOIL your holiday!

That is the sensible advice given in a Central Council for Health Education pamphlet, says Better Health. It points out that red faces, sore shoulders, and peeling backs are neither pretty nor pleasant. To get brown, do st slowly, exposing your skin to the sun in small doses at first:

First day, 10 minutes; Second day, 20 minutes; Third day, 30 minutes, and so on. If as an adult, you take risks with your own skin, you are not likely to do more harm to yourself than spoil your holiday and be very uncomfortable. With the children it is different. Babies can become very ill with sunburn. Generally they are entirely at the mercy of their parents and cannot escape the burning rays. So take great care to see that the first day they have no more than 10 minutes front and back. If they do not become red or sore, try 20 minutes the next. If they are still comfortable, try 30 minutes the next day and so on to a happy holiday.

- Health

•   MEDICAL TIP: HOW TO REMOVE FOREIGN PARTICLES FROM THE EYE WITH
    SAFETY

Foreign particles in the eye can be removed safely, under certain limited conditions, if precautions are observed. Dangers from foreign bodies on the eye surface are infection and the greatest danger comes from the object lodging on the surface of the pupil. An affected eye should not be rubbed, lest the foreign body penetrate the eyeball surface, and become even more deeply embedded. This is what to do:

1. Wash the hands thoroughly. Then grasp the upper eyelid and elevate it. Have the victim look up, down, and to the right and left while you check each part of the eye. If you see a speck, touch it with the corner of a clean damp cloth. In many instances, the foreign body will adhere to the cloth. Do not use fluff or cotton in place of the cloth.

2. If you cannot see the speck, it is probably under the surface of the upper lid. Grasp the eyelashes of the upper lid and draw the lid downwards gently several times over the eye surface. Often this will dislodge the foreign body so it will wash away or can be removed with a damp cloth.

3. If the speck does not come away with the cloth, do not persist. Seek medical care at once. If the foreign body such as a splinter, however tiny, penetrates the eyeball surface, make no attempt to remove it. Take the victim to a doctor.

•   MEALS FOR GROWING CHILDREN

How do you fancy yourself as a builder? That's just what you are, you know - a builder of strong, healthy young people and for this kind of building, you can't afford to choose anything but the very best materials.

It is important that the child should EAT his lunch - so it must be attractive to him - and it's important that what he eats provides the necessary material for the growth and energy output of the next few hours. Growing children have voracious appetites. Adolescents in particular seem to dispose of enormous quantities of food without the slightest trouble, and without any apparent alteration in appearance.

But measure them against the door jamb every few months and you'll soon see how it's being used. 12-16 year-old girls and 12-18 year-old boys need more food than the average adult - they use it for building new body tissues - they burn it up in intense physical activity.

So their meals must not only satisfy their hunger, but must provide suitable fuel for the body: Proteins found in such foods as meat, cheese, fish and milk, for body growth and repair of damaged tissues; Fats, butter and cream, for heating and energy; Minerals and vitamins from fruit and vegetables for normal healthy body development; Carbohydrates for energy and bulk, bread, porridge and potatoes will meet this need.

You see ... no mention of sweets, biscuits or cakes. The adolescent years should be training years not only in the classroom but also in the dining room. A hungry child will eat anything, and this is the time to cultivate in that child a taste for good, wholesome food, cooked in a variety of ways to avoid monotony.

Here are a few sandwich fillings. Firstly, egg fillings. A hard-boiled egg minced or mashed with minced celery and salad dressing is good, or mixed with white sauce and yeast extract or chopped tomatoes or curry sauce. Or you can use a lightly cooked scrambled egg with chopped chives or grated cheese or minced cooked bacon.

Grated cheese mixed to paste with white sauce or salad dressing makes a good base for blending with chopped walnuts, or steamed fish, or worcester sauce, or raw, grated carrot or mashed green peas.

Cottage cheese with dates, raisins, or sultanas makes an appetising, sweet savoury mixture.

Cold meat can be minced and mixed to a paste with salad dressing, gravy, or tomato sauce. Flavour this paste with chopped parsley or celery, raw grated carrot, or chopped seasoned beetroot.

Creamed fish is good with chopped parsley or minced egg. Creamed smoked fish is very tasty.

There's a big range of vegetable fillings to choose from. Lettuce is a steady favourite and blends with tomato slices, grated carrot, grated cheese, cucumber slices, or yeast extract. Finely shredded raw cabbage can be substituted for lettuce with any of these things. Mashed baked beans, mashed tinned peas, and spaghetti, with or without cheese, make attractive fillings. And try chopped onions and raisins, or mint and raisins minced together.

- Health

 

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Notes

from the

New Zealand

Sunbathing Association Inc.

 

KAURIMU SUN CLUB

Elsewhere in this issue we reproduce Eric's report on the closing of the Kaurimu Sun Club. We thank Eric for the good work that he has accomplished on behalf of the movement in New Zealand. It is particularly pleasing to learn that the annual general meeting of the Auckland Outdoor Health Club Inc. resolved to grant Eric honorary membership. This is a fitting tribute and vote of thanks to Eric from the movement.

NEXT ANNUAL RALLY

When you read this, it will only be another 4 months to the rally. Club members should remember that their application forms to attend this event should be forwarded to the host club, suitably signed at the foot by their own secretaries, not later than 31st October. The host club cannot guarantee anything if forms are received late.

Non-members should first apply to the NZSA, not to the host club, if they wish to attend.

DISCLAIMER

A recent edition of the publication National Informer contained a so-called survey of nudism in New Zealand, illustrated by four English photos. The NZSA dissociates itself entirely from this write-up. It is not factual and we were not consulted for any information by its author, whose name is unknown to us.

NUDIST MAGAZINES AVAILABLE

The demand for American magazines has been such that we have sold out. We wish we could obtain an import licence so that readers may secure these from us. We hope soon to be able to announce more publications available from England. At present we only have left a few odd copies of Health and Efficiency, mainly at 20 cents each, plus Solar at 15 cents each. Subscriptions to Sun and Health are available at any time at $7 a year of 12 issues.

COMMISERATION

It is with deep regret that we learn of the sudden death from an unexpected heart attack of Arthur C., a foundation member of the Canterbury Club. Arthur will be especially remembered for his enthusiasm for sports, particularly volley ball. We extend our sincerest sympathy to his wife and family at this sad time.

PERC. COUSINS TRUST FUND.

This fund is still steadily building up ready for any worthy cause within the movement. Some club members who would have liked to have sent a floral tribute to Perc's funeral may instead like to forward a donation to the fund.

We gratefully acknowledge the following donations: Last balance $819.25; AJH, Darwin, ex Wellington, $5; LL Hawkes Bay $1; CKM Westport $1; Wellwisher Auckland $1; Investment interest $5.35; Miscellaneous $1.50; Total $834.10. •

 

 

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Readershave their say ... 

 

FOR THOSE LIVING IN THE COUNTRY

Re your letter reminding me of my subscription to the NZ Naturist: I certainly do intend to continue subscribing.

I myself have always been a naturist. I have worked nearly all my life in the back-blocks and have often gone for months at a time naked. Others who have seen me have often thought that I was queer. They never seemed to realize how free one feels to run around naked all summer. I certainly have enjoyed reading your magazine. I never realized there were so many other people in New Zealand who were naturists. I would love to join your club. Would I be welcome to come to some of your outings next summer or does one have to be nominated as I have seen advertised in English magazines?

- HW, Tinui

(Of course you are welcome, if the nearest club accepts you as a member. Club rules vary as to the method of admission of new members, so the best plan is to write to the local secretary applying for membership.

Many naturists living in country areas or in towns without clubs may not be aware of a special class of membership open to them, known as country membership. More on this appears earlier in this issue. - Ed.)

FROM AN EARLY SUPPORTER

The magazine has come a long way since it started. I am sorry now that I didn't make a point of keeping issue No. 1 way back in 1956. About the earliest I have kept is No. 6, and that was flash enough to boast one staple. I was quite surprised to see in the latest issue that only 150 copies of the first issue were made. Nice to know that I was in at the beginning.

- IEM, Hawkes Bay

(Yes, it is a long way from a 4-page duplicated effort at 1/6 a year with only 150 copies to a 44-page well illustrated magazine with a colour cover, natural pictures and 5000 copies. Thanks IEM for your continued support. - Ed.)

TWO SURPRISES IN ONE

I bought a copy of your great little mag. through the advertisement in Truth and I rather expected a cheap paper back sort of thing. Believe me, I got the surprise of my life to see such a nicely turned out job and all in good taste, too. You have got me interested already, for if nudists can produce such a good magazine and so cheap, they must be a great bunch. Put me down for two years sub, and thanks a lot. I might become a member yet.

- JES, Oamaru

(Thanks JES, for those kind words. The nudist organization tries to do the right thing by everybody and we can only sell this magazine so cheaply because there is so much voluntary labour put into it. - Ed.)

 

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

I recently purchased a copy of issue 50 of your magazine and I must say I really enjoyed reading it. It compares very favourably with magazines I have read in England; in fact, I think it surpasses many in that it seems more light-hearted in its makeup. I would, however, like to make a suggestion.

A CONTRAST IN LIGHT AND SHADOW

Like its English counterparts, the NZ Naturist seems to print far too great a proportion of photographs of young ladies. While these would, of course, appeal to male readers, they could become a little monotonous to the ladies. Now I think the magazine would have far more appeal, especially to young mothers, if you printed more child studies, full page ones.

In fact, a full-colour cover picture of a little girl and boy gambolling naked on a beach, beaming all over their faces, would perhaps have great shelf-appeal in book shops, and booksellers would possibly display the magazine more prominently instead of the usual inconspicuous corner.

When I see a little girl wearing a two- piece bikini, it makes my blood boil. It is crazy enough trying to hide something that is there, but when one tries to hide something that doesn't exist, well... It is this sort of stupidity that corrupts young minds and is, I firmly believe, the main cause of immorality among young people.

I recently heard my next-door neighbour scold his 5 year old daughter for removing her blouse whilst playing in her sand pit one hot day. He, of course, was stripped to the waist.

- TH, Nelson

(Well, you shutter-bugs, what about it? It is NZSA policy not to have children on the cover of this magazine, as experience has shown that sales drop considerably when this is done. But inside the magazine is a different matter; and we sincerely hope you like the photo appearing on page 2 of this issue. Thank you for your letter TH. - Ed.)

THAT QUOTE OF THE MONTH AGAIN

On reading issue 51 of your magazine I feel I must comment on the letters of JWL and JAG. I am single and have been a keen member of the Rosco Club for over 4 years. We have 7 single men, 3 single ladies and a grand total of 81 adults and 53 children. We find that we have no problems with the 'singles' issue, and from what I have learnt over the years, we are not the only club in Australia to admit single men.

We used to use the quota system, but now any single applicant whose letter seems genuine is interviewed and if satisfactory is admitted to the membership. Granted we receive far more applications than we could admit.

As regards JWL, we admitted a widower last year and he turned out to be very keen and a great asset to our dub.

I do agree with the editor's comment that clubs do more harm than good by not admitting a few singles. Look at it this way! Most singles, including myself, have lots of free time and can spend much more time on work projects than those usually tied up with homes and families. Single people generally have more money to provide for the club too. It is the single people like these who have been the backbone of many clubs and the vast improvement to facilities and amenities is largely the result of their work.

- LEO M. (Asst secretary, Rosco Club, Newcastle)

 

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THE LATE DOMINION PRESIDENT

It was at the sixth national rally held in Christchurch that the NZSA was formed and became official, a regulation levy was imposed on all clubs to meet the ever-increasing expenses, and a committee was set up, with some members given powers to take over some of the work I had been doing. Now that we were officially organized, much more important work was undertaken in order to boost further the movement in the country and seek some sort of recognition in official circles, in addition to that already achieved.

As the clubs were fully represented on the NZSA, national work went ahead and in the course of the next few years, continued recognition with the Government, the Press and individual firms was maintained and enlarged, and in quite recent times, we have succeeded in gaining the sympathies of the police and the Indecent Publications Tribunal. This acceptance was gained by prudent advertising and by maintaining our reputation, and as the clubs were growing from strength to strength, we began to take our rightful place in the community.

In May, 1956, the National Review was commenced, and now, as The NZ Naturist, it has grown from two foolscap duplicated sheets to a full-scale magazine that is being accepted as a bona fide explanation of our ideals and aims, and it is fast taking its place among the more acceptable magazines of its type on the world market today. In fact, it appears to be one of the really genuine nudist periodicals available and it is doing a terrific job in helping to break down the mass of misunderstanding prevalent.

In 1958, the Christchurch club acquired more land adjoining their first purchase and they built a pool for only £261, met by levies on members. Cheap as this construction was, Otago went one better and built a pool in solid rock for a mere £47/4/5. AOHC also built a 20ft wide concrete bridge and Wellington was nearing the completion of the building of a homely clubhouse and the digging of a pool. The work involved in all these projects was colossal and was a display of the right spirit required by any club.

Other firsts this year were the attendance of a delegate to represent the NZSA at Woburn Abbey, the seat of the Duke of Bedford, at the INF International Naturist Congress, arrangements with the Kodak company to process nudist films when channelled through the NZSA, and a full-page spread, including large photographs in Wellington's evening paper covering the previous national rally. The NZSA was also able to negotiate with the owner of the Auckland Sun Club site to give the members prior rights over the land. This gave them the security they needed and development plans were then put into motion.

Clubs had now formed in Dunedin, Waikato, Whangarei and Hawkes Bay, while leaders in other areas were either trying to interest more members or searching for grounds.

In 1960, a long-felt need was finalised and a national constitution was submitted, which later was adopted after some amendments and we became an incorporated body. Also in order to standardise rules for players and umpires, a set of national sports rules was printed, for at the time of writing, we now have 12 sports trophies and 3 other awards to compete for annually.

As the national work had become too much for one pair of hands to handle, a secretary, women's representative and an overseas correspondent were elected, and our magazine was renamed The NZ Naturist. The NZSA was instrumental in getting the film "Garden of Eden" past the censor and publicly screened, to be followed by several others, all of them bringing in enquiries and helping the general public to accept the appearance of the unclothed body.

The following year saw the issuing of national passports and brochures, Agfa following the lead given by Kodak and now quite recently, the processing of Ferraniacolor has become possible on the same lines.

Nudism or naturism, call it what you will, is still comparatively young in this country and is just past its teething stage. Those of us who have proved the value of sun and air on nude bodies are continually doing all we can to further the acceptance of the movement, realizing that it is a definite force for good within the community. Although misjudged by so many, it is capable of doing more for individuals, especially young people, than most realize.

We look forward to seeing clubs established throughout the land, with healthy people making up the memberships who are unafraid to make their interest known and willing to get behind and push. Good foundations have been laid. It is for those who follow to use them to the best possible advantage. •

 

 

COULD IT HAPPEN HERE?

The Weekly News recently reported the following:

Travel agents throughout Germany report an unprecedented rush this summer on package-deal nudist holidays.

Headquarters of the travel agents' association in Munich said that about 4,000,000 Germans would take holidays designed specifically for nudists. In Munich alone, 80,000 people had already booked for beach and lake resorts with special facilities for nude sunbathing and swimming.

Travel agents are advertising family holidays in "Naked Paradise" for as little as $30 a week.

"AND WE CALL THIS 'POET'S CORNER'. THIS IS WHERE BOBBIE BURNS
AND YOU USUALLY SEE ROBERT BROWNING"

 

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with Joan Treanor

 

So often is the younger age group of the clubs left out of the planning and arrangement of any activities. Or at least they feel this way. This is the under thirteens that I really mean. Of course, a lot of the fault lies in the fact that the parent does not give the child the magazine to read, as often there are special articles, competitions and so on expressly for them.

By the poor response that we get from these efforts, it makes us aware that either the children are not interested or else they don't see the magazine. Parents, will you please help us to help your children. Let them read the magazine and especially the junior section.

At your club there are plenty of activities that you can take part in. I know that the Canterbury club holds socials monthly wherein the age group is from nine upwards, and it is this age group that really enjoys these evenings and keeps pestering the youth committee for more socials. Obviously one can't hold swimming events in the winter months, but there could be running sports, and these include a lot of activities. Quite a few of the clubs now play miniten and I have seen nine year olds and younger who are good players, so there is no reason why you can't play too. Most Mums and Dads will give you a game, or else approach your youth organizer. That is what they are for: to help you with your activities.

What is better on a dull day when the adults have a working bee, than for the youngsters to have a painting session. This doesn't cost much and doesn't require much supervision either, and certainly is a pleasant way to pass away an afternoon. Even you littlies must have some ideas of how you would like to spend your time and you can easily pass these ideas on to your youth committee, or if your club doesn't have one, then advise a senior member whom you like. Try though, like the older youth member, to help yourself, and then you will find that the adults will be only too pleased to help you all further.

The response to the junior rally is most promising and I only hope that the enthusiasm keeps up. This rally is to be held at the grounds of Auckland Sun Club from the 28th to 31st December, and we would like to see as many present as possible. Do ask your parents if you are allowed to attend and help raise money for your fares to keep costs down. The general, idea is that we hire a bus in Wellington to use to travel to Auckland, stopping overnight at Hawkes Bay grounds. There will be a sports day during the rally, plus a social one evening, and a trip around Auckland and over the harbour bridge, with possibly a drive through to Helensville for a swim in the hot mineral pools. Remember your bathing suits!

We are keeping our fingers crossed that Auckland provides us with some decent weather, so we can have a good time. If this rally proves worth the effort that has gone into it, we hope to make it an annual affair, but most of it is entirely up to you, and we do hope that you will show us your pleasure in our work by your attendance and participation in all the activities provided for you.

Another pleasing fact was the children that wrote to each other after the last rally in Christchurch. It is good to see you keeping up the friends that you make at these rallies, as so often it is the only time that you come into personal contact with them; but with you having the same interest at heart, it certainly gives you something to write about. I know that I like to write to other club members just to know what they do over the winter months, and what they propose doing at the start of the summer season again.

With all this cold wet weather that we experience in the middle of the year, it makes one wonder what the summer is really like doesn't it? But then again, there is so much to do throughout the whole year, that I find there aren't enough days to do everything. Do you find this so? If you don't, you could use some of that spare time you have in writing to me about yourselves, or your activities at the clubs or even anywhere for that matter. I like receiving letters, and certainly answer all that I do get, so please write to me.

Joan's address is P.O. Box 6359, Wellington. •

COMPETITION RESULTS

We were very pleased to receive more entries for the letter-writing competition than for previous tasks set for the juniors. BUT, every entry made the same mistake. Have a look at the calendar! There are only 30 days in November. Ouch, how many others missed that mistake?

The two winners of this competition were: Kevin T, aged 10½, who lives way up North Auckland not so very far from Wellsford. Kevin found 56 mistakes; at least he says so, but our late editor reckoned there were only 48. The other winner was Lance F, aged 10, who lives on a farm near East Cape. Lance found 33 mistakes, but he made quite a lot in his re-written letter.

All of you made a good attempt at this competition, so keep it up next time. We did promise another competition for this issue of our magazine, but there has been so much material come in, and as our editor is no longer here to do all the necessary work, we shall hold over another competition until the next issue. That will be a Christmas box for you all; and we sincerely hope you give US a big Christmas box by filling our post office box with your answers. Good hunting juniors. •

 

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TO THE BEACH

by GWEN, ASC

(Dedicated to the farmer who gave us access through his land)

WHETHER IT IS ON THE BEACH OR ON THE ROCKS, YOUR CARES STAY BACK IN THE SMOKY TOWN

 

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It was in 1944 that I acquired the property at Oratia in order to build a home and establish a nudist club in Auckland. Naming it 'Kaurivale' and the club 'Kaurimu' a few enthusiasts were gathered together and the club grew. Over the years mighty labour was put in by a lot of stalwarts in removing the hill and digging out the pool - labour which had to be repeated every now and then, as flash floods swept silt and destruction through the playing area.

It was evident at the start that, although it was necessary to obtain grounds for a club, these of mine were not the best. Beauty of situation we had in abundance; bush and stream were ideal surroundings for our nudism and privacy was of the very best. As against that, however, there were certain drawbacks and, as the years passed, they were made more and more evident. First there was the lack of level ground. All flat ground we enjoyed had to be hacked out of the surroundings, and was. Secondly, access by car was a long way short of the playing area, necessitating a fairly long walk down to and a climb up from, the pool.

I was concerned, in the first place, to get nudists together and enjoy simple sunbathing having little fondness for the forming of committees, rules and red tape. Of course, as the years passed and nudism grew in strength, it was evident that the movement would go on to these things, but I hoped that Kaurimu would continue as it was originally established, a simple retreat for nudism, with those who wanted something more elaborate passing over to the more highly organized clubs. Our small outfit has been a 'feeder' for a number of years and finally I passed control over to a committee, retaining the title of president, so that they could organize in the way they cared.

This arrangement seemed to prove satisfactory for a while, but there was still a big drawback and that was the ownership of the property, and the clubs insecurity if I decided to sell. I could not lease a portion since it would spoil my selling, or upset the club when that happened. An offer to buy was not anywhere near the figure I had to get and that was that.

The newspapers provided the next clue and I learned that the club was to be shifted to new grounds and, following the members leaving in a body, having the mail re-directed, etc., the old grounds here are now deserted. As if to put finis on the old club, one of our flash floods came down recently and caused havoc down below, damage which I am not inclined, or now able, to repair on my own.

So, Kaurimu has reached the end of what I trust was a useful service to nudism. We have here tried to gather in the interested and set them on the path of true nudism and now, with the resultant growth and organization, find this place redundant and out of step with the latest developments. It has been the work of many years and much toil, but has provided many, many folks with their first introduction to nudism and the years have seen lots of happy hours by all at the old pool and waterfall at Kaurimu. •

Doug. Cousins 

A CLOSE-UP VIEW OF THE DOME, WHICH IN ITS DAY,
BROUGHT FAME TO KAURIMU SUN CLUB

 

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

 

In forwarding their reports the clubs have expressed their sincere regrets at the passing of our president and editor. Perc. They repeatedly eulogize his great work on behalf of the movement and the fact that so many clubs were formed as a direct result of his efforts.

Our newest club, the Rotorua Sun Club, reports that it is on the verge of acquiring a lease on a 5-acre site - and - wait for it - it has a warm stream.

Once again the Wanganui Sun Club has had its hopes dashed as far as obtaining the elusive property. Unfortunately one of the owners died before all the necessary signatures had been obtained and the successors to the land have decided not to sell. They are again on the hunt and Ivan has willingly given them the use of his home grounds for a further season. Members have shown their appreciation by cutting all the lawns and hedges, and will continue to do so for as long as the club has the use of the grounds.

They are still holding winter social evenings, and by the time this issue goes to press, they should have again visited Mount Egmont. A few members are still being gained from the publicity received from increased sales of this magazine in the district, and can recommend all clubs to help push this very worthwhile medium of advertising the clubs.

After a period of comparative inactivity, the Kowhai Valley Club Inc. is now making good progress in the development of its grounds. Members have been very generous in donating the necessary materials for this work. They had a better attendance at the last working bee and an area has been cleared for two more games courts. Drainage was a major problem at one time, but some hard work has reduced this considerably. A tool shed, donated by a member, has been renovated and another smaller one erected alongside. Water tanks connected catch rain from the roofs to provide immediate drinking requirements. The June swim night was a great success with 63 adults and well over that number of children. A social group has been formed and a PRO appointed. The development group is working on plans for the future of the grounds. All they want now is fine weather for the working bees.

The Wellington Sun Club Inc. rounded off the summer season with a well attended half annual general meeting in March, followed by a Maori hangi, which has now become a regular annual feature of the club's activities. This latter feast - for such it was - catered for over 150 people. Much preparatory work was done on the Saturday, with the fire being lit at 7.30 a.m. Sunday, the food placed on this at 12.30 p.m. and the fire pit opened up at 5 p.m.

During the winter months, members have been enjoying a well organized social programme. The club's annual ball was held in May when they were pleased to welcome members from the Wanganui and Hawkes Bay clubs. In June a large party of members and friends attended a performance of "Fiddler on the Roof". The continued private use of a city sauna bath once a week is an added attraction of the club's social life. They have been pleased to welcome members from other clubs at these sauna sessions.

At Fiveacres, work days are being held during the winter months. The more work and maintenance they can get done in winter, the more they can look forward to relaxing during the summer. There was not a great attendance in June, as for this month the district experienced over 19 frosts, some around 16°. Earthmoving operations in Hide Park have been completed and the area is ready for topdressing.

The Nelson Sun Club Inc. is gaining momentum. With the use of 300 acres of land, thirty or forty of which are suitable for sunbathing, they are ready for all comers. Bulldozing has now been completed and apart from a natural swimming pool, there are games courts for volleyball, badminton and teniquoit. Plans for a canteen are in hand, and in the meantime soft drinks are available from the "Abbo Lean-to" which has been put up by some "bush engineers". This lean-to, the pride and joy of most but an eyesore to some, was constructed from materials found on the site and blends in nicely with the surroundings. It also provides shelter and is popular with young mothers.

The club has received a number of applications for membership from the younger set and whereas these were originally turned away on the assumption that sunclubbing was first and foremost a family activity, they are now accepting members of all ages. They have a keen youth leader who has a place on the committee and they are looking forward to some keen competition on the games courts this season.

The club is developing a central sunbathing area, but members are free to select and clear their own favourite spot. The owner of the land has donated 250 native trees and these have already been planted. The kids are having a whale of a time with crawlies in the creek, and the haystack. One member suggested that the club's advertising slogan should be "Make Hay in the Sunshine, Join the Nelson Sun Club Inc."

Activity at the Hawkes Bay Sun Club Inc. during the last few months has not been great, but some jobs done are the progressive cutting down of a l20ft pine tree, the planting of about 1500 new pine trees and the start of lining the kitchen in the clubhouse. At their quarterly general meeting, Norman, their president, was elected a life member.

The Northern Sun Seekers reports a very eventful and surprisingly busy period. In reply to their story in the Northern Advocate, they received seven offers of land for new grounds. Four were placed on a short list and they expect to have made a selection by the time this issue goes to press.

There was one unexpected "fall-out" benefit following the publication of the club's appeal. The secretary received a telephone call from the Auckland Town and Around television show. They wanted to do an interview with one of the members about the club's problem in particular and the movement in general. After much frantic phoning, one member, John, agreed to be interviewed and the interview was 'in the can' a bare four hours later. John, a willing workhorse if ever there was one, put up a very creditable performance and the members were later pleased to see him on the little screen.

The club suffered a major loss recently with the departure to Auckland of two prominent members and their family. They had been foundation members of the club and a keener nudist couple it would be difficult to find.

Doug., our former secretary, stepped into Alan's shoes as president, and Kevin is now secretary.

This year a work programme at the Auckland Outdoor Health Club Inc. has been designed with the forthcoming rally in mind and has been given a tremendous start by the use of a member's bulldozer over Easter. There is now a loop road behind the clubhouse to the baches to provide access to parking and more camping space for the rally. The area surrounding the former home of Dick and Anna has also been cleared up and many wattles removed to make way for more attractive trees. The club is grateful to Anna for making the building available for club use. Work is under way to provide further power outlets for caravans, and to ensure adequate screening along the road.

The first winter social has been held in the clubhouse and was a marked success both for the "Flower People" attending and for the club finances since there was no fee for hire of a hall.

It is said no news is good news, but since it is nearly a year since the Waikato Outdoor Society Inc. gave its last report, we thought we had better let you all know how very much alive we still are.

Membership increases slowly. Perhaps the Waikato is a little conservative, it surely can't be our weather, although this year we certainly have had our share of it.

Way back in '68 we were to have had a great day with Kowhai Valley and Tauranga visiting us. This was postponed so many times we thought they would lose interest. One of our members used the respite to wire our cowshed. We bought a new tank which filled in about a week, dug a pool to fill the washing water tank, marked out the volleyball court, and waited for a lift in the weather.

It was well worth the wait. Our visitors finally came at the end of March, 1969, and oh, how enjoyable they made it for us. We saw then what a club ours will be when we have as many members as the number of visitors we had that day.

Nudism is said to give one a sense of freedom and this is doubled on our grounds. We are not hemmed in by bush; even when our screening is fully grown, we will still have our views over the Waikato Plains. There is room to move, room for the youngsters to play volleyball, for the oldsters to laze in peace, walks for the energetic and a whole world for the wee ones to dig in and build huts.

 

What is the father of a schoolboy who is always writing home for money suffering from?

A touch of the son.

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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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JUST SEND $1 for 1 year (Australian subscribers send INTERNATIONAL Money Order, (NOT Inland postal order) for $NZ1.25)

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N.Z. Naturist

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

Back issues Nos. 37-50 are available at half price.

Numbers before those at 5 cents each.

 

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(Top)

SOLINUDE

by Penworthy

"TO LIE, TO SUNBATHE, TO REST, PERCHANCE TO DREAM."
A LONE NATURIST OUT FOR A DAY IN THE DUNES

EPILOGUE:

Alas poor Yoricke, I know him well, a fellow of great wit; of most excellent fancy; he has done a great many chores for our club these past years. But where are the others?

The Bard of Corcoravon

 

(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. Phone 604-235 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. ROTORUA SUN CLUB INC. P.O. Box 1007, Rotorua. GISBORNE SUN CLUB P.O. Box 126, Gisborne HAWKE'S BAY SUN CLUB INC. P.O. Box 551, Napier Phone 37-692 WANGANUI SUN CLUB P.O. Box 410, Wanganui. Phones, pvte 38-421, 33-123 WELLINGTON SUN CLUB INC. P.O. Box 2854, Wellington. Phone TIB 8300 NELSON SUN CLUB INC. 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: New Plymouth 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 3 by Perc Cousins

Obituary: Percy Walter Cousins by Aubrey Fitton

Eric Flint: Vale Karimu

Gwen (of ASC) To the Beach - a poem for Pakiri

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A. Leon Gilbert 

STEPPING OUT FOR A DAY IN THE SUN 

PY KORRY - THIS WATER SURE IS GREAT 

Doug. Cousins 

BAMBI COMES TO LIFE
IN A NEW ZEALND DEAR PARK

Leon Gilbert 

WHICH SHADE OF TAN DO YOU HAVE?

Doug. Cousins 

LONDON WAS NEVER LIKE THIS!

THE GISBORNE SUN CLUB
WHICH WAS FEATURED IN
A STORY IN OUR LAST ISSUE

 

A QUIET SPOT IN THE SAND DUNES SOON DEVELOPS A LOVELY TAN

 

Parthenos 

THE CHILDREN'S SAND PIT AT
NORTH KENT SUN CLUB

 

ANOTHER FREE BEACH? PERHAPS. THIS ONE IS, HOWEVER, A LONG WAY FROM OHAU

 

WHETHER IT IS ADULTS ON THE GAMES COURT OR CHILDEREN IN THE SPLASH POOL, THERE IS A LOT OF GOOD FUN FOR ALL IN A SUN CLUB. WHY NOT COME AND JOIN US?

Doug. Cousins 

PHOTOS TAKEN AT THE LAST NATIONAL RALLY AT PINEGLADES

 JIGGS

A STORY IN PICTURES

BRINGING UP FATHER

with apologies to George McManus

PHOTOS TAKEN AT FIVACRES
by Doug. Cousins

Doug. Cousins 

ISN'T EVERY CLUB THAT HAS SUCH AN IDYLIC SETTING, COMPLETE WITH A WOOD-NYMPH. THE OTAGO CLUB WILL BE HAPPY TO LEAD VISITORS ON THE SHORT WALK TO THIS WATERFALL

IF YOU DON'T LIKE THE UMPIRE,
SIMPLY TIP HIM IN THE POOL

MORE PHOTOS OF THE LAST
NATIONAL RALLY AT PINEGLADES

 

Lawford White 

• AUSTRALIAN GIRLS

SOMETIMES A GOOD TIME FOR NEW MEMBERS TO MAKE THEIR FIRST VISIT TO THE CLUB IS DURING THE WEEK WHEN
FEW PEOPLE ARE PRESENT.

Doug. Cousins 

THE SAND MAID

Doug. Cousins 

• BEAUTIFUL NEW ZEALAND

LIGHTHOUSE ROCK AND THE ROAD TO SKIPPERS, NEAR QUEENSTOWN

Photo: Doug Cousins

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