# 142 - September 1992 

"It's strange and sad that more Kiwi nudists don't appreciate the unbelievable freedom they have and the rare degree of tolerance that exists amongst the population. What a splendid country in which to exploit this freedom. Larger than California and more than twice the area of Britain, yet with a population of just over 3 million people, the opportunities to go nude are incredible but under-exploited. It should now be common to see naked people amongst the clothed population, fully integrated and exercising both their own personal and legal rights. Instead, predominantly, with the exception of one clothing optional resort which we visited, and the Free Beach Group, nudists still tend to gather behind fortress type enclosures, and many relish their anonymity. With freedom breaking out around the world and walls coming down, maybe it's time for naturists and resorts to demolish their own mental and physical walls and barriers."

This quote, part of the commentary on Heritage Video's beautiful film "Naked Down Under", is a very accurate and perceptive view of the state of nudism in New Zealand. The quote is all the more remarkable for its lucidity, given the brevity of time spent in New Zealand by the Heritage Video team.

This commentary on nudism in New Zealand was made, of course, in the light of nudism overseas. Elsewhere, nudism has had to fight in order to gain legal recognition. It may be a tendency for us in New Zealand simply to think that Europe is liberal and, therefore, nudity has become an openly accepted state, without any positive efforts on the part of European nudists.

One can be forgiven for imagining this to be the case, especially when one thinks, for example, of many hundreds of nudists enjoying their freedom in the English Garden in Munich, right in the centre of the city.

This is not the case. Nudity is permitted in the English Garden in Munich because in 1980, the Munich government set aside a number of legal areas for nude bathing. Similarly, nudity is legal throughout Denmark because the law has positively declared that nudity is not illegal. Here in New Zealand, we need to appreciate the fact that public nudism in Europe had to pass through stages, from being illegal to being made legal. It was only after this initial ground-work had been done that unofficial acceptance of nudism became more widespread.

It is in this light that the team from Heritage Video made their commentary about the "unbelievable freedom" that nudists have here in New Zealand. It is possible that a number of Kiwi nudists do not actually appreciate just how fortunate we are in our country. I am convinced that a number of nudists do not appear to have grasped the significance of our nation-wide legal freedom. New Zealand is almost unique throughout the world: public nudity is legal! We don't have to go through the legal hassles of having beaches or parks officially set aside for our nude recreation and enjoyment. They are already open to us - legally open to us: they are waiting for us, so to speak, to invade them and enjoy them, by exercising our legal and natural rights!

Unfortunately, however, the team from Heritage Video were forced to observe that our "Opportunities to go nude are incredible but under exploited." This is sad, but very true, commentary.

It would be a step backwards to fight for "legal" nude beaches. Currently, we are the envy of Europe because of the legal status that nudity already enjoys in New Zealand. To fight for legal beaches would be akin to reversing our current situation: nudity would be deemed to be illegal on all beaches not positively declared legal. We would find ourselves back in 1970's Europe, when public nudism had to strive for freedom - freedom that we already have.

Other than the broad issues of principle at stake, there are practical considerations also: a beach that has been declared legal can easily be declared illegal. We need look no further than the Tasman. Come on, Kiwi nudists! Is this what we want?

Only the future will tell if other local authorities now endeavour to follow the precedent set by North Shore Council. Hopefully, things may not degenerate that far.

The most positive way to prevent other authorities from following suit is to challenge the bylaw. Well and good, if we can have it overturned through the court system. Well and good, if court cases prove the bylaw to be ridiculous and impractical.

Therefore, as I have already indicated in a previous article, we must continue to practise our public nudism with as much boldness as is prudently and practically possible.

 41

GOING

ON ONE

Four years ago a seed was planted to host the 41st NZNF Rally, and this year at "Rapere" the home of the Hawkes Bay Sun Club that seed will have matured into full bloom. This is a first for our club, a small club, on its own grounds. A task that at times the Rally Committee thought was insane.

How does a club start when they have never taken on something like this. Where did the other clubs start?

They did and succeeded and the conditions in the early days were more primitive than what we had to begin with at 'Rapere'.

A group of members got together to see if a rally was a viable proposition and apart from the lack of power, it was agreed that it could be done. The club could not afford to put power around the grounds where it would be needed for campers so the obvious answer was to use a theme of 'Back to Basics' - Pre-Historic. A dinosaur became our mascot which in the beginning was nameless but when the committee were asked his or her name the answer was "Dunno" - from then on Dunno' was its name and has become very dear to the committee and we hope to see all the members attending. For seven days of the Rally the name of the grounds will become 'Sunrock County'.

The next step was to see if the rest of the club were prepared to go along with the idea. With reservations it was agreed that we could go ahead. Some members agreed expecting this 'foolhardy' idea to fade away with time which did not happen and the more meetings the committee had the more enthusiastic they became. Next problem, and probably our biggest, was where were we going to put our guests. We needed a bulldozer to do all the work and this is where one of our first miracles came along in the form of one of our members who agreed to bring his magic machine and clear the land ready for the sites.

'Them there hills' were there no more. The only hill left was in the middle of the property and apart from moving that and filling the dam - which was needed for the rally, we decided to leave well alone. Things were starting to take shape and with the areas flattened we now had enough room to accommodate the tents and caravans.

Next the ablutions needed attention and after discussing this matter with the 'experts' that had had experience at organising rallies, we found that we could complete the work and provide the necessary facilities without being too primitive.

By this time we had a 'real' rally committee and members were fitting into slots most suited to their capabilities and with the offers of help from members of other clubs and the public in Hawkes Bay we are now confident of making sure those people attending will have an enjoyable and relaxing rally.

For those who know the club grounds, the putting green has been graded into split levels, one to accommodate the volleyball court and the other for the teniquoit. With one umpire stand now made we are about to obtain more and nets for the courts. The sports courts and facilities which seemed to be another problem, are starting to take shape as well. The concrete miniten court will carry most of the matches but a grass court will be prepared for the young adults and the early rounds. Bowls will be held in the club hall and table tennis and darts in the marquee which will be erected close by. Swimming will present little problem with our full sized pool being the central facility. Home made lanes will complete the needs in this area. A sand filter has been installed and has been in operation over the latter half of the summer.

An additional barbeque area is almost complete near the old house, which has just been renamed 'Norm's Lodge' and for the rally will be the administration area. Gas cookers will be available on the upper level to assist those without means of cooking, fridges will be available for the campers in the same area.

Photos: David Sykes

Food, both hot and cold will be available from the bar and shop. In the barbeque area a hot water supply will be available for those who require to wash dishes etc. Supplementary water lines have been laid to appropriate areas amongst the camp sites so that water will be handy to the majority of revellers. Of course, there will be other beverages for those with a thirst.

Security will be maintained day and night. All legitimate participants will have identifying tags to wear so that those without are liable to challenge. During the evening patrols of the grounds will not only watch for possible intruders but also to check on family sites with children to confirm that all is well. If a child is heard crying a two way radio will convey a message to the marquee where the parents will be contacted. It is also hoped to have help from the young adults who will arrange a group babysitting service. The combination lock will be changed for the duration of the rally and only financial members will receive the number. Day visitors will be welcomed and registered also.

As far as possible, competitive outdoor sports will not be held during the heat of the day and the opportunity will be taken to push ahead with the indoor competitions. Top team games, as usual, will be a fun part of activities and are planned for mid-afternoon and at the moment we are hoping that young adult teams will be able to participate after the adult events.

'Norm's Lodge' which will be named "Dunno's Brain Centre" is currently receiving a facelift and to those that knew the shop in earlier days, will be faced with a completely new building housing the shop, storeroom and implement shed. The shop will be fully stocked and bread, milk and papers will be brought in daily after being ordered by members the day before. Any other requirements can also be brought on request to save an unnecessary journey for the members. The first aid centre will also be housed in the administration area. We will endeavour to meet the needs of our friends for the length of their stay.

Photo: Doug Ball

A children's and young adults area is planned on the northern side of the house together with the youth centre. A full programme is being prepared for the younger set as for the young adults.

With the registration forms will be a list of the caravan companies as well as private caravans which are now being advertised for.

To all those enthusiasts who are planning to attend, out thanks.

We are doing our best to make it a good time for you and those of you who are unsure, may we say, with due modesty, that we know you will not regret it and will have a great time.

The rally team are a confident bunch and with a motto like 'it's not a problem it will be all right on the night' how can we fail.

So come along and support us and the Nudist Movement - a first in Hawkes Bay for the Forty First NZNF Rally.

Activity is brewing 25 kilometres west of Napier. Bulldozers are levelling ground for camp sites and 10 acres of land are receiving a spruce up.

The revamp is in preparation for the New Zealand Nudist Federation's 41st Rally late this year which will draw members from throughout New Zealand and abroad to Hawkes Bay. Two hundred and fifty members are expected with some travelling from Canada and Australia.

As an affiliate of the NZ Nudist Federation, the Hawkes Bay Sun Club is organising the event and spokesperson Edna Sykes says it's the first time a small club has taken on the national rally to such a large extent.

Spanning seven days, the December rally will include the Federation's AGM, nights of entertainment and a chance for members to visit the hot spots of Hastings and Napier. Visitors will be accommodated at the club's 10 acre site, "Rapere" and Edna says it's a chance to meet old and new acquaintances.

"It's a time when we can all get together to talk about our clubs, have a great time and come back revitalised."

The public is invited to attend on any rally day and either join in or look over the grounds, either way an appointment must be made through Edna.

The Hawkes Bay Sun Club has been active for the past 26 years and has about 80 members.

Rapere includes a club house with showers, toilets and kitchen facilities and has a 25m x 15m swimming pool. Camp sites are available and some members have even built their own permanent baches. A concrete tennis and volleyball court keeps sports- people active and for golfers there is a nine hole putting course. A small lake accommodates rafting, canoeing and rowing.

Photo: David Sykes

Edna first came into contact with the club 20 years ago through a friend. She says she always loved the outdoors but had only gone nude with family and friends.

"When my friend suggested the nudist club I thought that there was no way I was going to take my clothes off but after 10 minutes both my children and husband had undressed and I thought, - if it's good enough for them, it's good enough for me."

She says belonging to a nudist club allows her to relax at the end of the week and leave problems behind her... along with her clothes.

"For me there's more to nudism than taking off your clothes and meeting different people.

"Clothes are a restriction to me and to be able to shed them is great ... the minute I walk into the grounds it's unreal, I forget all the problems I've had in the past week within 10 minutes

I'm relaxed and happy doing what I want."

"As far as children are concerned it's the safest place on earth, children are running around and everyone's aware of them, we all take care of each other's children.

"It's perfectly natural and beautiful. The most beautiful thing is having members who are pregnant. Children can watch the growth, listen to the baby and ask questions. It's absolutely fantastic, they learn so much without having to be shown from a book.

"To me it's one of the most extraordinary things to see in a nudist club. Kids love it and they become well adjusted and behaved."

Edna says total nudity removes any sexual notions. It's only when people add bits of scanty clothing that the mind is prompted to sexual thoughts.

"Clothes are a restriction and to be able to shed them and walk around free without sexual problems is great. But you can put a bra and a pair of pants on a woman and immediately males eyes go nipple hunting. It's when you start dressing up that the problems start."

Like all parents, members are also concerned at the increase in child molestation and for this reason prospective members are carefully screened.

"We've been very lucky... and we soon show undesirables the gate, it is a constant worry to all clubs especially in this day and age but we screen prospective members and we probably turn more away than we take in," she says.

While there are beach nudists who limit exposure strictly to the sand and there are those who go nude only among friends and family, for Edna club nudism is true nudism.

With no telephone ringing and outside connections severed she says she is able to relax without any distractions. People and conversation also take on new levels when clothes are removed.

"It's a completely different relaxed way of life - you're all on the same level. You can be so much more open and children can be more open and there is no fear of the human body."

Being without clothes means being a constant target for the sun. For this reason there is a high awareness about melanoma among members and Edna says risk is kept to a minimum.

"I believe that there is a danger from the sun especially in Hawkes Bay but in the heat of the summer there are more club members working with tee- shirts on or sitting in the shade than you will find on the beach."

"It isn't just about going out and getting a suntan, I don't think in 26 years, that I've ever physically sunbathed... I go and have a swim and then go and sit in the shade."

Turkeys and rabbits are encouraged to roam free in the club's gardens and the planting of native trees and renovation of the grounds is a constant project. The aim is to transform the site into a relaxed natural garden; something for the future.

"In any club, you have got to look to the future - you cannot stand still," Edna says.

Making a stand as a nudist is an important part to development Edna says and she feels the reserved stance of the public is beginning to change. 'In the past five years we've (the club) become more public and gained a lot more acceptance than we have ever had before. This is probably because we have gone on radio talk back and shown that we are prepared to answer questions.

Photo: Graham Hall 

"We don't push our beliefs on to the public, they can see what we have achieved and see what we are doing, many don't want to be a part but are just happy to Support."

Edna says people are still self conscious of being a nudist and what is needed is for people and members to stand up and be prepared to say "I am a nudist, I take off my clothes and I enjoy it.

"I feel nudists can probably teach 'normal' members of society a lot about masks and coming back to reality.

"People wear masks, but when you take off your clothes you have no inhibitions, it's a great leveller and I think it's very important. We are not eccentric, we're not even extroverts, we're just people looking for a natural way, of life."

Since 1981, when the blackberry, gorse and scrub were cleared and the golf course created, January and February have become 'golf tournament months" at Nelson Sun Club, with 3 regular events taking place.

The beginning of January is the time for the Mapua I Sunrise Tournament when over the 2 day weekend, teams made up from folk from the Nelson Sun Club and Mapua Leisure Park compete for the Mapua/Sunrise trophy.

Saturday's golf is played at Mapua, where skill is liberally sprinkled with luck, due to the sand content of the course. This always produces a lot of hilarity among the players, especially when the newcomers score better than the rest. The only restriction at Mapua is that clothes must be worn while playing golf (a situation which is often blamed for bad scores).

Sunday's golf is played at Nelson Sun Club and first timers to Sunrise are impressed by the high standard of the course, which is also blamed for bad scores!!

Although the weekend is set aside to find a winner, everyone involved enjoys the opportunity to meet new people, renew old friendships and socialise over cups of tea and home baked goodies.

Mid-January sees the Open Tournament, which is open to all members and guests. Once again it is an opportunity to enjoy convivial company and a lot of laughter. Usually there are special prizes for the "closest to the pin'"least number of strokes" or "worst score!" as well as trophies for men, women and juniors.

February sees the handicap Tournament, the results of which are often surprising, not least by those that win!! It certainly causes headaches for the handicapper but gives everyone the chance to take home a trophy.

Like all golf courses, Sunrise is famous for it's tall stories but they say fact is stranger than fiction. Take the time Rosemary got a "birdie". Not uncommon on a golf course you might think, but this birdie was a sparrow, which was hit on the head by Rosemary's golf ball - not dead, just a bit surprised!!

Above 1984

Below 1991 

With the course being used nearly every day of the year, there are lots more stories to tell.

Over the years, the dedication of those responsible (led by Bill Davis) has meant that the course is constantly maintained at a very high standard,

but the one thing that people who visit Sunrise comment on, is the "laid back" friendly atmosphere which prevails throughout the club, not least out on the golf course. This means everyone, from beginners to pros, can enjoy a relaxing game in a beautiful location with convivial company. Perhaps we'll see you on the course this summer?

It was a chilly but bright sunny Saturday afternoon in late June when I happened upon a sight for sore eyes to see. There stood clothed a cowardly cluster of 20 cold Kiwis and naked several shivering souls nakedly poised to plunge into the 6°C water of Lake Downs swimming pool, chilled from several nights of freezing frosts. Palmerston North Sun Club was holding its annual Polar Bare Swim.

Reluctantly the brave bodies boldly broke the still clear waters in dribs and drabs. With great courage the mass madness was started by a nubile nymph who dived in with a dash and swam two lengths of the 20-metre pool. Following her at the other end of the age spectrum was a senior citizen who later emerged with shower cap and hot water bottle strapped to his back.

The young maiden's uncle jumped and cried out "uncle" whilst capitulating to the cold prospect of more than two lengths. A hardly hardy sports specimen who, not concerned about his future generations, won the year's brass monkey award for longest in the pool with four lengths under his belt. A family affair of dad, mum and young reluctant son joined hands and jumped together.

Last, but not least, the Club President plunged for two lengths after some animal antics for the camera, only to discover later that there was no film in it. For the club album photos and the sake of posterity, he positioned his posterior and plunged again with cameras capturing the crucial comedy.

Photo: Neale Barlow

Despite the numbness, the participants experienced a lovely, spine- tingling sensation and an overall warm cosy feeling of revitalised vitals. After the swim, all freezing fools received an official polar bare certificate and a choice of three types of hot soup to help them thaw out.

It was a marvellous chance for club members and visitors to enjoy the afternoon winter sun au naturelle after months of being cocooned in clothing.

Well done Palmerston North, and continue the spree in '93!

When visiting the homes of some Naturist people it can be difficult to understand why they should ever want to go anywhere else for nude relaxation and enjoyment, being completely out of sight of their neighbours and any casual passers-by both inside the house and around the garden.

Some people are fortunate in that they have a garden where a little care to avoid certain angles and with a few carefully placed blankets, allows them to flop out on long summer days to work on their 'all-over' tans. Others are even more fortunate in that they have complete seclusion, mainly due to their remoteness from other properties.

Their biggest problem is from the unsuspecting casual visitor wandering onto their grounds and innocently coming across them living their lives - nude, as many do.

Naturists have to make the decision to either keep their clothes on while at home and restrict their nuding to the beach and club, or where possible to make changes to their current home to improve screening, allowing them to be nude more openly, or - to move to a new home that is secluded already.

Pauline and I did the first thing when we initially started out in Naturism, keeping clothed at home and heading for the club or beach whenever possible.

We then lived in a modern (as was then) goldfish bowl with wall to wall and floor to ceiling glass at the front and a garden that was pretty well overlooked at least from one neighbour and the bedroom windows of the houses at the back of ours. A bare bum had no chance of going unobserved for more than a few minutes there, or so we felt at the time!

As our confidence increased and our resentment and resistance to wearing clothes grew, so did our resolve to improve the screening both inside the house and in the garden. The provision of fine mesh net curtains to the front windows and always remembering to close the drapes before turning on lights, overcame that problem.

Well! It did after we realised that with the lounge lights on, we could be seen quite clearly from the outside through the fibreglass curtains as though there were no curtains at all. Quickly replacing these with heavier material ones soon cured this problem.

The garden was a much bigger problem, not being very large, but there were some well developed bushes between us and one of the neighbours and the three story 'town houses' on one side, also the neighbour had a tall willow tree that helped enormously, (If the neighbour had known, he would probably have chopped it down!)

On the other side of the garden we installed a wide, but shallow, 'pent' roofed garden shed which gave good screening on that side without eating up too much of the ground space or blocking the sun. This and a few six foot high fencing panels effectively screened us on that side. O.K. so if the neighbours had looked out of their bedroom window, they wouldn't have had to wait too long to catch a glimpse of naked flesh, but we did invite them to join us on several occasions.

The back garden fence was due for replacement anyway, so a six foot high ornate cement block wall overcame the problem of being seen through the cracks in the fence from ground level.

Unfortunately, in both the storms of October 87 and January 90 the wall was blown down and on the second rebuilt we incorporated some additional reinforced concrete pillars for extra strength.

When first built, the original wall was fitted with some timber strips, over which a 'Rushing vine' was encouraged to grow, and this gave good screening from the bedroom windows of the houses to the rear of us once it got established after a couple of years. Previously to this, while we patiently wait for it to grow, we ran the gauntlet of being spotted passing from the patio doors into the garden, but there was never any evidence of either of us or our friends being spotted, but then one has to be pretty narrow minded to complain about seeing people nude and maybe these few people weren't that bad.

All through those summers and well into the autumn, on bright days in the early months of the year and even on some winter days, we would be nude in the garden, either sunbathing, doing a spot of gardening, or mowing the lawn (it was always my ambition to be able to mow the front lawn nude too). On the warmer days we would have our meals outside too, generally spending as much time in the open air as was comfortably possible.

When it came time to take up a new job, slightly outside my reasonable daily travelling circle, it rapidly became obvious that we would have to move house to be nearer the job. There were a few Aces in the hand' as at that time property prices were depressed and as we hoped to move up the property market, we stood to do O.K. in an exchange. Another bonus was that the job was in an industrial area but very close to some lovely country areas, with three motorways nearby.

Locating my new workplace on a small scale map we looked at the surrounding areas, decided what was too 'built up too far from good roads and then we selected a suitable location by sticking my finger over the most favourable spot on the map. It was midpoint between industrial area and open country, motorways within a couple of miles to take us north, east or west.

Carefully lifting my finger, we identified the nearest village and then dressing quickly we jumped into the car and drove to that village to have a look around and right at the village centre was the 'friendly neighbourhood Estate Agent' open on this sunny May Sunday afternoon and was more than happy to provide a folio of details of suitable properties available in the area.

Many of the properties were discounted immediately on the grounds of price, location, size, type and general appearance, but one set of details sort of stuck to our hands. No matter how we tried to put it to the back of the pile, it always seemed to come up next. Not being absolutely sure how much we could afford, not knowing how much we would raise on our current property, we felt that maybe this one was outside our price range, but let's go and have a look anyway.

Our initial impression was that it was an empty bungalow of good size and very wide frontage. Though the lawns were well cut, all of the woodwork needed painting, if only to cover the horrible green paint that seemed to be everywhere. Inside, it smelt musty having been unoccupied for over a year and the 'fitted kitchen' though newish and was supplied by one of the more prestigious high street companies, certainly was a 'basic economy' one, fitted by a contract kitchen fitter who was really best suited to doing other things - anything, other than fitting kitchens.

The rooms were quite large and all were needing decoration, but hidden behind the hard work (and expense) needed to bring it up to scratch, it was pretty obvious to us that there was a tremendous amount of potential for what we were needing. This place could have been designed with Naturists and seclusion in mind with the spare bedroom just inside the front door for visiting Naturists to disrobe in. All windows that could be observed from the outside, except for the two front ones, were at shoulder height. This meant that even with the inside lights on, no one outside could see in. But those people inside could see out O.K. (provided that they weren't very short) and the sun and daylight shines through. The lounge, an extension to the back of the original building, looks out through a large patio door onto the secluded garden, brick built barbie and ornamental gold fish pond.

The front lawn, large enough to make you think twice about getting the mower out, could easily be screened with fencing panels, this enabling people to sunbathe there from just after sunrise until late afternoon. Reason enough to warrant the expense of fencing panels, and - I would get to mowing my front lawn - nude, finally.

Initially we thought that there was only one section of the boundary that needed screening, but in May, when everything is growing, it is possible to get a false impression.

You do need to consider how much seclusion you will have after autumn has blown most of your privacy into piles of leaves that will need constantly clearing away, but a few extra fencing panels can cure most problems.

There were several other properties in the folio that we got from the Estate Agent that had appeared to fall within the range of our requirements and price which we visited over the following weeks. People did sort of think that we were a little odd because after a cursory glance at the general appearance, we headed for the garden and rather than looking at the house from the garden as they expected, we were looking at the surround properties, checking for overlooking windows and peering through the thinner parts of the hedges. Many places, we made our excuses and left without even going inside the house, well who wants a neighbouring window looking directly into your garden - unless of course one is an exhibitionist with a desire to upset the neighbours - which we aren't.

Within a couple of weeks of our property going on the market we had a buyer. They had no property to sell and were able to move as soon as it could be arranged, our new property was empty, so no hold ups!! We should be so lucky - it still took 4 months before we were able to move in. By the time we had moved, the summer had passed and we had a winter coming on, but that would give us time to get the placed sorted out, hoping that by the spring all the work would be done and we could relax in the sunshine.

By spring we were more or less settled in and getting used to the new place and though not everything was to our liking, with the run up to summer (a very long run up) we were enjoying having the garden directly outside of the lounge and spent many long hours pottering around in the flower beds and watching the goldfish in the pond, nearly always nude.

We found that in the spring, before the trees were fully in leaf, a bedroom window in a house about 50 yards away could see part of the garden and a neighbour could see in from their skylight, if they stood on their tip toes.

Who cares! we told them that they can join us if they wish.

During the spring many of our friends came here, but we wanted to see how many Naturists people we could get together in one time. We had managed to get twelve in the house and garden at the last place and this one had more scope. Dare we hope for 20!! Being impatient to have a get together, we selected a bank holiday weekend in early May and sent out the invites.

We had a volunteer chef who ran a continuous barbecue for the whole weekend, filling the garden with smoke and delicious smells. Some people were staying over the whole holiday, while others came and went on different days. Some food and refreshments were laid on, but visitors were invited to contribute their preferred food and tipple. All in all it was a great weekend with everyone having a great time in the sun and though over 30 people called in over the three days, we can only claim 18 at any one time.

Since then, the house has seen many naturist visitors and now is more of a home to us and we are very happy that for the foreseeable future this will be our Naturist paradise and though it is still good to get away to the beach and other naturist places, after a long drive, it's great to get back and drop the clothes off again to relax here.

Looking back, moving to a new home after many years in the old one holds more trauma than is normally allowed for. Firstly, it had taken us nearly 20 years to get the old place to the way that we wanted and the new place had more to be done to start with. The new place did have more problems that we had thought and it took and is still taking time to sort out, but it is a longish term project.

Probably we could have spent more time looking at other properties and still not have found anywhere better, even at a higher price. It would have been nice if the new house had been in better condition, but in time, we will get it more up together and all of the time we will be able to spend our spare time relaxing, nude, until it is time to start looking for our next Naturist paradise.

After seeing the story on Riverland Hideaway Resort in the December magazine I had the chance during the holidays of making a brief visit there. Bruce and Pauline met me on arrival, and over that initial cuppa we talked about the complex and naturism generally. One other couple was camping there but being mid-week with schools open, that was all. However, the weather could have been a trifle better.

I am pleased to tell everyone that all the buildings pictured in the previous write-up are there, although not all are ready for use. The main block with the kitchen, recreation room, spa, outdoor pool and sun deck etc is very far advanced and in heavy use by those staying there. The barbecue is a really good one - it catered for 150 people the day before I arrived -the main reason why there was no firewood left beside it for me

The camping area is very large, but until shelter trees get high enough there could be wind problems. Both the pool and the river can be cool for swimming.

The one drawback is the road leading in. From the main highway there are five kilometres of gravel which in places is both rough and steep.

I would suggest caravan owners should check the road before attempting to bring in their vans.

The main areas are two with the camping portion on the higher ground and almost entirely flat. It does look as if the whole complex would be safe from flooding should the river rise. It is quite a fair sized swift river, which would please the rafters. There is a good, but small, beach with fine sand.

Although there are very good kitchen facilities, including fridges, there might be some problems over replenishing food supplies for anyone staying for any length of time. The nearest shops are Taupo and close to Napier with long driving over hilly country in between.

The accompanying photos show some of the features of the complex. It is a pity all the people are the same, but the other budding "models" had their car break down on the way so they never arrived. I would certainly recommend Riverland as a good spot for a holiday away from it all, and away from that badge of civilization - clothes. There is plenty of farmland for wandering around in "club uniform".

By Doug R. Cousins

A word from Riverlands

With the weather not being ideal for running around minus your gear, we at River-lands are flat out finishing buildings, planting trees and setting up a promotional shop in Napier. The summer wasn't the best with the sun forgetting to come out quite often.

The resort complex was not finished and we worked on it right through the season with many campers assisting us with different projects. THANKS A LOT YOU GUYS.

With our first year as clothes optional we had a mixed reaction with the H.B. community, most weren't too worried, but some were horrified at the thought of nude people around - especially around their children. Now people are getting used to the idea made easier with our adventure operation we run from the same place.

With being H.B.s only White Water Rafting operators and also our Horse Trekking operation we have large numbers of people through all of the time, many stay overnight at the resort. We feel we're in an excellent position to educate the public as a whole that nudists are quite normal people just like them.

The pool, spa and sauna is a great way to introduce people to public nudism (our sauna will be finished by September along with everything else). We also have introduced nude rafting on the gentle parts of the river ending at a beautiful waterfall, as well as nude horse treks, our farm is totally secluded, we have no neighbours.

The bush walks proved very popular with everyone being able to walk all day without bumping into many people. Different walks are now being established. At the complex another ablutions has been included, 2 self- contained units will be ready for the season and more as time goes on, more powered sites and trees planted.

We will be introducing the health element into the resort from September this year. Holding health and fitness programmes with professional instructors on diet, nutrition, massage and aerobics over a period of 2-5 days. After all this is how nudist clubs started as health clubs, pushing the fitness side of it. Riverlands will eventually be known as a Clothes Optional Health Resort, even though we will always cater for everyone incorporating the camping ground as well. With the rally being held at H.B. Sun Club this year, (only 20 minutes drive away) we have received quite a lot of interest for accommodation on the way home.

We need all the support we can get so please call in and see us. That's what we're here for.

Pauline and Bruce McVicar

Article (& advert) photos: Doug Cousins

WAIKATO OUTDOOR SOCIETY

"Tis on gossamer wings

that your beloved Papillon

Will fly to you in the silvery moonlight

of your dreams

Together we shall weave a cocoon

of memories, that will endure

for ever more.

With the Golden glow of dawning

glinting on the morning dew,

I give my heart and blessing

to make this dream of mine, come true."

Greetings from the Waikato

How does a newly elected scribe compete with what has already been said on the progress of our club house from ashes to Grandeur? (Well, very nicely put together, thank you!)

Previous reports have been offered covering all aspects of the progress made and having only been in the Nudist Movement for 3 years, I feel humble in that I have been entrusted with this task of keeping you all up with the news from the Waikato.

Hi! I'm Colin, and I am new at this business of communicating with the big wide world of people who wear nothing on their holidays? How often has your beloved said "Oh dear, I have nothing to wear." Now isn't that just human nature? All the benefits of "High Society" and yet when you think about it, it is so nice just to be able to relax and take your gear off and snooze in the sun?

O.K., So this is it. This is my initiation into the world of thinking people who have defied protocol and defied the cold and defied other people's opinions and decided not to be counted as sheep.

Congratulations!

High! no, I am not! Scared, yes. What the devil am I doing sitting here at this typewriter plugginfg away (oops, sorry about the spelling mistake, my finger slipped,) and trying to say "Hello" from the Mighty Waikato, where the cows don't Moo, and the Bulls always have a contented look on their faces.

Well, what with all this rain, I mean...

Just think... "Mildred, what will the neighbours think? 'Moooo' ". "What could you possibly have to complain about, Mildred?" With all the exposure we got at the National Field Days, Mildred, don't you think you could at least afford to buy yourself a new coat? No Dear, I don't think Gumboots would suit you. Never mind what Fred Dagg used to say. Yes, I know, Gum- boots are the IN thing, in some countries but don't you think you are being a little dressy? I mean, Mildred. After all, dear, we are true Naturists.

Oh come one, Mildred, you never used to worry about who saw your mammary, but now since young Ferdinand moved in up the road you have become a proper old moooo! Never mind, Mildred, I'm off to see what the Waikato Outdoor Society, is up to. With their new Clubrooms and a new Committee now installed, I know that I will be made totally welcome with or without MY gumboots.

I wonder what Mildred and Ferdinand will really get up to when the calving season gets into full swing?

Anyway, after that little foray into the world of communication between the Provinces of our country, I am now in the process of having a heart seizure.

No, not really, Well, I don't think so, anyway.

Just listening to the music in the background, reminds me of the wonderful time I spent at the recent A.O.H.C. Rally.

"Nothing compares with you."

No prizes for guessing who sings that, but doesn't it say lot.

My sentiments exactly.

Having a big left foot which I have just taken out of my mouth, I shall try to impart some of the rumours which I would dearly love to lay credence to.

10,000 Waikato Outdoor Society members will be at the Hawkes Bay Rally.

True or false?????

Never mind, this is the year 2005, isn't it?

AUCKLAND SUN CLUB

In June we were proud to present the first of the main winter socials to which all other clubs were invited. The theme for music and dress was the 1960s Rock 'n Roll. Our clubhouse fairly shook at time when some of the more memorable tunes were played. This social was well attended, despite the torrential rain, with about a hundred people in the hall at the height of the evening. Everyone seemed to have a good time, with plenty of food, lots of raffles, bright music and good company.

The next month it was the turn of S.A.S.C. How they did it is not known. Their rain gods must be different than our own. They laid on a beautiful starlit night for us. A blazing bonfire cheered up the scene even more. A well laid down hangi kept the inner- self happy. So there was a warm glow from inside to out. As it was the 4th of July the theme was red, white and blue and most people did their best to dress to the theme. Again, this social was well attended, which makes all the hard work that goes into this sort of thing, well worth while.

One different outing enjoyed by a number of members of our various clubs was a trip to the "Hollywood Theatre" at Avondale to listen to the Wurlitzer organ being played live. This was a very pleasant couple of hours. The highlight of which was an old Laurel and Hardy silent movie with incidental music and effects played on this marvellous old Wurlitzer.

After the extensive quagmire our car park and driveway developed during the Rock 'n' Roll evening, it was realised that something had to be done about it. Permission was obtained to take a large pile of waste chips, dumped from recent road repairs in our area and a fleet of cars and trailers was marshalled by club members.

In the next three Saturdays these chips were spread where they would do most good. During this operation no less than three police cars and six policemen visited the site to enquire about our position in moving the chips.

We can only hope that such a response would be made to a more serious crime.

Several sites have been looked at to erect garden shed. Most have been discarded, because the existing concrete was either too small, too sloping or too broken. We have resigned ourselves to bending our backs and pouring a proper base in a more accessible position. We also look forward to the coming summer season.

ROTOTA SUN CLUB

Let's think of summer at Rotota. Then, the lake temperature was 22.9C, the stream above the waterfall 36.9C, the hot-spot upstream 45.9C and the nearby cold spring 25.9C.

Sounds good now in the middle of winter, when the only warm place is the hot-tub at the edge of the lake. It warms you right through, while looking across the cold lake - lovely!

The lake is like a supermarket - I go "shopping" regularly in my dinghy, finding fence posts, planks, and other timber suitable for steps on the grounds. The meat department was well stocked, too. A dead beast (minus ear tag) floating and smelling high, fortunately downstream from the club.

We are looking at planned replanting of natives, using pines and gums (existing) as shelter until the native trees are big enough. This is a long-term proposal to create a native tree park from the bare pumice we started with 10 years ago.

We are again looking for a resident security person to live on the grounds. Own accommodation needed: caravan or movan, free rent and use of facilities in return for minimal duties. Applications to the secretary, 58 Torphin Cres, Tokoroa.

Visitors are welcome at Rotota!

NELSON SUN CLUB

Although "Sunrise" has experienced its driest year in over 20 years, things are still green and in tip top condition, thanks to lots of hard working members.

The good thing about the lack of rain has been the wonderful sunny days, even in the middle of winter, which so many folk have taken advantage of.

The mid-winter dinner was a great success - thanks to all for making it so much fun - it will be repeated next year! And in the midst of it all the showers were upgraded to * * *

Thanks to the shrewd bargaining of Bill, we are now able to add croquet to the activities played at the Club. It is proving popular with young and old alike and although not physically demanding, it isn't as easy as it looks.

Our AGM went very smoothly, and at 1 hour 29 mins, it must be one of the shortest and most amicable on record (at any Club). Our new President and Committee are keen to create a long-term plan for Sunrise and welcome input from those who have ideas for the next 5-10 years (perhaps even a rally?).

With the economic situation being so difficult, we have noticed more people choosing to stay at the Club for their holidays. It certainly makes economic sense. The grounds are ideally situated, only 20 mins from Nelson city and handy to beaches, shops, wineries, craft outlets, bush walks or anything else you could want, while still being ideally located with a "get away from it all" atmosphere.

Our membership is still quietly growing, although the majority of our members live in Otago and Canterbury. It would be good to have more, closer to hand, to be involved on a regular basis - something we will have to work harder on.

And with that in mind - if the person who is reading this, lives in the top of the South Island, is not already a member of our Club, but would like to find out more, just drop us a line or phone (details at the back of the magazine) and we will take it from there.

AUCKLAND OUTDOOR HEALTH CLUB INC

Over the winter months, AOHC has joined with the other Auckland clubs in holding several interclub social evenings.

First was a 60's night held at the grounds of Auckland Sun in June with everyone from hippies to bobbysoxers rocking and twisting till the wee small hours. Our next visit was to South Auckland and since it was American Independence Day, the theme was red, white and blue. The hangi supper was definitely local and a grand feast.

Then came our turn as the clubhouse was transformed into something between a school room and a nursery while we all returned to our childhood for the evening. There were school children, nannies, babies and brats, toddlers and teddies plus all the jelly, fairy bred and ice creams you could eat. The bar staff were kept busy refilling empty bottles and only 2 tantrums and 3 scraps were reported all night, which was amazing considering the enthusiasm with which the games were played. Musical chairs was the most popular and rowdiest and some of us in our 'second childhood found hopscotch a bit more strenuous than we remembered!

As well as these interclub gatherings, we have had several potluck dinners and games evenings in recent weeks, also an indoor bowls tournament so the clubhouse and fire is not left to go out.

The parking area behind the clubhouse has now been metalled and enlarged which has given us more space of course and a better surface. Great not to have to, wade through muddy puddles any more.

We are looking forward to the onset of summer, meantime we are completing our winter maintenance and interior painting of the clubhouse.

Dear Sir,

Naturists need not worry that local authorities might pass bylaws to remove the right to be naked that has been afforded us by statute (see page 6, Issue 139 of NZ Naturist) because Section 15 of the Bylaws Act says: '... no greater penalty shall be inflicted upon a defendant than that fixed by statute law'.

But the statute imposes no penalty at all because it sees no offence. Thus, although under the Local Government Act 1974 a breach of a bylaw can bring a fine of up to $500 and $50 for every day that the offence continues, a bylaw aimed at taking away our statutory rights would have to specify no penalty, which would make it a dead letter.

Any existing bylaws on the subject can therefore be ignored with impunity because they are illegal.

Trailblazer

Dear Editor,

I enjoy reading the Naturist and would like to contribute to your mag by reminiscing of the wonderful times my girlfriend and I had at Canterbury Sun and Health Club in the early 1960s. Pineglades was such a friendly, happy club and the sun seemed to be always shining over the grounds.

Walter was our President and dear Dot, a very warm personality, was our Secretary.

I always remember driving into the club grounds for the first time - the sweet smell of the pine trees and the beaut feeling of complete freedom.

The 10th National Rally was held in 1962-63 and we had such a great time meeting and socialising with other Nudists from all round the country.

The motto on the front of the clubhouse was "God giveth the sun to enjoy" and enjoy it we sure did.

Best wishes for the future of the Nudist Movement and to the continuation of your wonderful mag.

Yours sincerely, Henry Burgess

Dear Sir,

I am a practising nudist myself and also a solo father. We live too far away from our nearest nudist clubs which are at least 100km away and it would be unfeasible to join either.

I have thought of advertising in the local paper for other like-minded people in the local area but I am afraid of too many weirdos or people with the wrong ideas answering the ad, so I thought if you could provide a "Communication Corner" in your magazine, I and others like me could advertise in your magazine knowing that most of your readers are nudists or like- minded people.

There is another type of magazine for the others with the wrong ideas about nudists.

Yours in Nudity,

Clive W. Kennedy
Private Box 6
Norsewood

NEW ZEALAND CLUB DIRECTORY

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

new zealand

naturist

No. 142 Sept 1992

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

Editor:

Graeme Brown

Business Manager:

Frank Murphy

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

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

(Top)

AUSTRALIAN NUDIST CLUB DIRECTORY

All correspondence should be addressed to:

P.O. Box 2925,
AUCKLAND.
NEW ZEALAND

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

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

President: Les Olsen
Auckland 444-5015

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

PHOTO CREDITS

Graham McGregor - F.C.

Robert Broekstra - I.F.C.

Don Cleavin - P12, P13, P14

Dave Clarke - P11

Neale Barlow - P10

David Sykes - P2, P3, P5, P6.

Doug Ball - P4

Graham Hall - P7, B.C.

Freddy Karstensen - P8

Doug Cousins - P16, P17, P18, IBC

Leif Heilberg - P20

DEADLINES FOR COPY

143 December 1992 - 1 October 1992

144 March 1993 - 30 January 1993

145 June 1993 - 20 April 1993

146 September 1993 - 15 July 1993

STATE ASSOCIATIONS:

Nudist Association of Victoria,*

P.O. Box 313,
Reservoir, Vic. 3073

Nudist Association
of Queensland,*

P.O. Box 442,
Woodridge, Qld 4114.

NOTE: The clubs marked with an asterisk (*) above are affiliated with the Australian Nudist Federation.