# 15 - August 1959
[The National Naturist Review - Spring] Editor: Perc Cousins (Pages: 28 - 5/- per annum)
Contents:-
Editorial
Thanks Kaurimu
Nudity is Sinful (Rev. Ray Fussell)
New Zealand Sunbathing Association - INF Passports and Badges, Our Review, Pamphlets on Nudism, "Nudist Paradise", Swimming Pools
8th National Rally
Hygiene & Sanitation at the Sun Club
Pen Portrait: Eric of Kaurimu
A Kiwi at the White House
INF - Austria, U.S.A., Australia, Corsica
Hot Springs in New Zealand (Doug Cousins)
Of Importance to Teenagers & their Parents - Wining Essay (International): Why I am in the Naturist Movement
Club Notes (10)
NEW ZEALAND'S ONLY
NATURIST MAGAZINE...
a valuable contribution
towards a better world.
THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL
OF THE NEW ZEALAND
SUNBATHING ASSOCIATION
Box 6359, Wellington.
In a recent issue of the American Natural Herald, Ivan Brovont has taken Stewart to task in his editorial, when he quotes from our Review, No. 10, where he said that nudism "is a form of relaxation... nothing more."
To quote from the article, he points out that "anyone who thinks of nudism as merely a sport, a form of occasional relaxation... nothing more, has entirely missed the vast great benefits to be gained by this natural way of living. They have missed the boat, for nudism is definitely more, much more than mere relaxation. To a serious minded nudist the very idea of letting anyone gain the impression that nudism is only a sport, a lark, a side issue for a few times a year, smacks of cheapness and of having no merit for serious consideration."
To continue, he says... "We are in accord with the above mentioned Editor that one must have home and community responsibilities, but one can have and work at those things and still be a serious-minded nudist. Any other view would be the same as admitting one could not believe seriously in anything without neglecting his family, friends or community obligations. We agree that nudism must be brought into its proper perspective. For nudism is a vital force in this world of trouble. It is destined to be the force of natural truths that shall slowly but steadily lead mankind back to full harmony with nature and himself, and a restoration of the peace of Eden before selfishness was allowed to destroy Eden and the world. Nudists should be proud of their role as leaders towards this happier, healthier, peaceful world. And they can work towards that goal without neglecting either their families or their community obligations."
"Remember, one can enjoy all the relaxation that comes from natural living, can have fun and enjoyment and yet work for the many other more serious aspects of nudism. The sooner we move nudism out of the sporting class and get it into its real role of being a serious minded movement towards the social and mental upbuilding of humanity the faster will be our recognition."
While this writer applauds the zeal that prompted the foregoing and would like to see all members truly dedicated towards furthering our movement with all the enthusiasm of a Billy Graham, we have to reluctantly admit that we come in assorted sizes, mentalities and grades of thought. Much as we each would like to cast everybody else in the same mould as ourselves, it just wont work that way. We are individual and must ever remain so, and it happens that nudism breeds a special type of individualist. We must be individualists to be broad-minded enough to break away from convention and become nudists. Nevertheless some of us will be keen and continue to lead the movement in N.Z., others will help and still others will tag along. To some it will be a way of life, a sincere effort to help others less fortunate than themselves to attain a mental and physical health that will help us to become a better nation. Some will accept these facts and do what they can to follow the lead set by the zealots. And finally we have the rest who are attracted by the novelty, just plain curiosity or because they like it. While humans vary as they do, we must continue to have all shades of opinion and there will be room in our clubs for most of them.
But in conclusion, it is worth remembering that while nudism can be a pleasant form of relaxation, it can also be a lot more to those sufficiently inspired and unselfish enough to want to lead others into what we know to be good and worthwhile and enjoy some of the benefits that we know can be theirs. We get out just as much as we put in.
Perc.
A Nudists' paradise? Well maybe that's stretching advertising a bit much, but I wonder...
To the dwellers of flats, tenements, sardine-like state housing areas, to the Auckland city people, Kaurimu is a paradise to its members.
There one can strip, relax, and exhilarate in the clean, fresh air, soak in an abundance of sunshine, and toss aside the humdrum of city life. Here amongst native bush, with winding walks, past tall, proud. Kauris reaching up to the sky, one can appreciate the foresight of Eric who preserved this bushland so close to Auckland.
Nestled at the foot of the Waitakere Ranges, this flourishing Sun Club has few rules and regulations but is very emphatic in its instructions to new members regarding its native bush. The Kauris, Rimus, Ratas, Punga ferns and all and various natural bushes and trees are taboo. Surrounding the natural rock pool with ferns attractively overhanging, are Pungas, Ti-tree bushes, and several Hydrangea bushes making swimming a pleasure.
The call of the Tui, the familiar cry of the Morepork Owl, the Kingfisher, but above all, the peace and security plus the unrivalled fellowship and hospitality of the Kaurimu's will always have a place in the hearts of my wife and I.
We have left Kaurimu now, having moved to Christchurch, but we'll be back one day.
Joan & Ken T.
by the Rev. Ray Fussell
Naturists will not be very pleased or flattered to learn that nudity is not only shameful, but also sinful. At least this is what the Anti-nudist Campaign, sponsored by women's groups, leaders and a number of missionaries are telling the natives in various parts of Africa.
An article headed "Problems of Nudity in Backward Africa" appeared in a Taranaki newspaper recently, which stated that although nudity may be comfortable, it is sinful, and the greatest test for the women of Ghana is to see that the evil of nudity is stopped at once.
It is rather disturbing to discover that while we are striving to educate the people of this country to appreciate the spiritual and physical value of nudism, a few Christian missionaries and others are trying to create a guilt-complex in the minds of simple native folk by telling them that nudity is a shameful thing and a grave sin. Fortunately all missionaries are not so blind as to poison the minds of their converts. No attempt is made to change the normal native dress by enlightened missionaries. No attempt was made in this country. An example of the folly of natives putting themselves into ordinary clothes is in what happened to the Maori chief, Ruatara, when Samuel Marsden came to New Zealand. Poor Ruatara had a great admiration for the white man's ways, and managed to get himself some white man's clothes. One day he got caught in the rain, contracted pneumonia, and died. So much for the idea that nudity, or semi-nudity, is a sin.
We cannot do anything about the problem of nudity in Africa, but the knowledge that a lot of misguided people, including some missionaries, are perverting the truth, presents a challenge to all true naturists. Let us have the courage of our convictions. I know only too well it is not easy to 'convert' other people, but opportunities do present themselves, and we ought to make the best possible use of them. It is well worth remembering that in the beginning Christianity had to fight desperately for its very existence. Its membership now runs into millions and millions, and its influence upon the whole world is not possible to assess.
The number of naturists belonging to the New Zealand Sunbathing Association is probably not very great, but we can, by our loyalty and active support, help to strengthen and make it grow until it becomes a power to be reckoned with in this country. Let us take up the challenge.
UNITY IS STRENGTH
DISUNITY IS WEAKNESS.
A few years ago we used to receive numerous requests from folk wishing to spend a nudist holiday, but apart from Wanganui and Kaurimu, we were unable to offer any suggestions. Now, things have changed and we have club grounds right throughout the country, where you can enjoy a real nudist holiday all the time. As the holiday season approaches, you would be well advised to pay some of them a visit and enjoy the welcome that would be awaiting you. Although all the grounds are in various stages of development, they are beautiful in their individual ways and most have sufficient facilities to ensure a happy and enjoyable change. But don't just leave it and drop in when it suits you. Drop a note beforehand, including a note from your secretary or otherwise establishing the fact that you are a club member, so that arrangements can be made for your hospitality. A lot of us will be going to the rally in Auckland and you don't want to find no one at home. Better still, plan to go to Auckland and see some of the other clubs on the way. Happy holidays, everyone.
INF PASSPORTS AND BADGES.
Several members have applied for international passports and a surprising number have requested INF badges. The stock is now exhausted and we will get in a new batch as soon as we possibly can. When club members wish to apply, unless you are known to us at this office, kindly include a note from your secretary to establish your membership. They are only 2/- each and become an excellent means of identification to those who know about it. Ideal if you are moving about, but don't expect to be admitted to a club because you have a badge and nothing else. You will still need a letter from your secretary for that.
OUR REVIEW.
Several letters have reached this office complimenting us on the steady improvement and increased size of this publication. Four clubs are now arranging for its sale to the public and enquiries are coming in as a result. While most correspondents wonder how we can publish it so cheaply, others have told us it is far too expensive and must be reduced. It must be remembered that the price was fixed at a National Rally and it would be most unwise to reduce it now, especially as the block is made for the covers. We feel that the most desirable thing to do is to continue enlarging and improving and with the help of everyone, that is our present policy. Our artist intends to devote more space to illustrations and improvement in layout. Once we can catch up on the necessary deadline, planning at this office will be easier and the errors will be reduced, a bigger and better publication will result and a regular publishing date will be observed. As soon as circulation permits we will have the machinery ready for Litho or Roneo production with illustrations, but we need your help first.
Do you send free copies of this Review to your local newspapers and library? You should, you know.
Just to make sure we were not doing anything illegal in selling this magazine, we submitted a copy to the Justice Dept. for a ruling and this is what they said:
"We have now read "The National Naturist Review No. 13" which you left at this office for an opinion.
It does not offend against the Indecent Publications Act in our view.
Yours faithfully,
S.T.Barnett.
Secretary for Justice."
NEXT DEADLINE.
The deadline for all reports, articles and other copy should be the 1st January, but as we must hold it up for the Rally reports and for people to get home from holidays, we will have to put it forward slightly. As soon as the Rally reports are ready we will be away, so we will fix the date for the 11th January, 1960. We will do our best to be out on the 1st February with issue No. 16 in order to maintain the publication dates of the 1st day of February, May, August, and November of each year.
PAMPHLETS ON NUDISM.
Agreeable to our request, the American Sunbathing Association has kindly sent us a number of pamphlets on various aspects of our movement. They we designed to help and guide the newcomer and are available, free of charge, to anyone interested, upon application to this office.
Here is the list of titles:
Some Facts About Nudism.
Catholicism And Nudism.
Sunbathers Ahoy.
Why Become a Nudist?
A letter to wives.
Information about Nudism and the A.S.A.
Why Nudism?
A Mother Speaks of Nudism.
"NUDIST PARADISE"
We had hoped to be in a position to review this film in this issue, but the copy being sent out from England for the censor's approval has not arrived to date, 10th October. We have been in touch with the distributor and assured we will be notified as soon as the release is finalised and clubs will be informed, as soon as possible after that. It may be on circuit before this Review appears, so we hope you were all prepared in readiness.
SWIMMING POOLS.
In a future issue we will be publishing an article on this subject, but meantime we have been in touch with the National Water Safety Council who issue a valuable booklet on the Maintenance and Sanitation of School Swimming Pools.
We can obtain free copies for any club interested. The Council also has available on loan a large file of the most important information one needs on every aspect of pool construction and maintenance. The Wellington club is digesting it at the moment, but we will be pleased to forward your application to the appropriate source, should any club wish to avail themselves of this valuable information.
1st, 2nd, 3rd January 1960, at the grounds, of the Auckland Outdoor Health Club Inc.
Judging from correspondence received recently, there appears to be some misunderstanding about procedure in making application for admission cards. It is simple and no confusion need ensue. There are two categories.
1. Members of clubs.
2. Non-members of clubs.
If you are a member of a club all you need to do is to notify your secretary of your intention to attend. Your secretary will inform our hosts of the number of admission cards required and after filling them in, will issue them to you in plenty of time. Should members need to hire equipment or make any arrangements with the hosts, do it through your secretary and not direct.
If you are not a member of a club, then you apply to this office and admission cards will be issued from here. Should you need to hire equipment or make any arrangements with the hosts, do it through this office and not direct.
Amendment to train times:
NO TRAINS RUN TO RANUI ON SUNDAYS AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.
BACK ISSUES OF THIS PUBLICATION
ARE AVAILABLE AT REDUCED RATES.
by Ken, of Canterbury Sun & Health Club Inc.
Granted, we call ourselves Naturists or Nudists, and we delight in going back to nature by basking in the sun and air in our birthday suits, but don't let's get primitive.
Unfortunately it seems we tend to forget at times well-known laws relating to cleanliness and health. Oh yes! Flies breed on rubbish tossed aside at the Sun Club just as anywhere else - except that no rubbish man collects twice a week, and no cleaner sweeps up the grounds daily!
May I be permitted to offer the following points in an effort to remind, and assist us in attaining a high standard of hygiene in our Sun Clubs.
We will start with rubbish tins. At HANDY situations, (and I emphasise handy or they will not be used), COVERED tins should be placed, well labelled, preferably one for wet and one for dry refuse. These tins should be emptied regularly - don't wait for them to be filled up!
Wet rubbish should be buried and covered immediately, siting the pit or hole at least fifteen feet beyond the nearest building. At least eighteen inches of soil should cover the final layer. Dry rubbish, including tins, should be burned. For this purpose, it is important that the club should have an efficient incinerator, preferably permanent, constructed of old bricks, but a good forty-four gallon drum will make a workable incinerator. Once again, burn immediately the rubbish is emptied into it, and afterwards flatten tins and bury them. The reason for burning food tins first is that food clings to the crevices of the tins, and if they are just buried, larvae can still feed.
Some clubs may be lucky enough to be able to tap water mains and city sewerage systems, but most of our New Zealand grounds are out of town, and therefore have to rely on their own disposal systems which, if constructed correctly and maintained efficiently, are in every way just as hygienic as the city methods. But how many clubs have the kitchen sink waste pipe just poked into the ground, or perhaps just empty the washing-up basin outside the clubhouse door!
We must have a well-constructed soakage pit dug four feet by four feet by four feet. Fill it up to within six inches of the top with stones, rubble, or burned-out tins which have been perforated. The top of the pit should be covered with sacking or brushwood and overlaid with earth. A soak pit should be provided for each kitchen, ablution and shower drain.
Water from cookhouses contains a considerable amount of grease, while water from ablutions and showers contains soap. No soil, however porous, will absorb for any length of time, water containing soap or fat, and these must be removed before the water reaches the soil, otherwise it will become clogged. Therefore we must consider the installation of simple grease trap which can be constructed in wood very cheaply by the club handyman.
The principal of the grease trap is that hot water containing fat or soap is run into cold water, the fat solidifies, rises to the top, and can be skimmed off. The grease trap should have a fly-proof cover.
Next clubs, how about providing a place where one can have a comfortable wash and shave and tooth-brush drill without interfering with the breakfast or washing-up! An ablution stand can be simply knocked up from old scrap timber. Lastly I mention the latrines. Most clubs have installed the liquefaction type, and I will describe the construction and maintenance of the deep trench latrine as being the most satisfactory type for club grounds.
A trench six to eight feet deep, three feet wide and ten feet long with vertical sides should be dug, and where sides are liable to collapse they should be supported with timber, corrugated iron or sandbags. Such a trench can accommodate five seats. A fly-proofed structure should be provided for the seating made of tongue-and-groove timber, with vertical sides and ends, but with a sloping back. The openings should have wood or metal lids attached in such a way that they close automatically when not supported. Before the fly-proof cover is placed in position over the trench, the ground surrounding the trench for a distance of four feet should be dug to a depth of six inches, the loose soil removed, and a layer of oiled sacking or 'malthoid' spread over the whole area, with the ends turned down over the sides of the trench. The fly-proof cover is then placed on two heavy battens running the length of the trench, one on each side, and extending two feet each past the end. The loose earth is mixed with heavy oil, spread over the 'malthoid' and beaten down, thus forming a trap for any fly maggots which may hatch out in the trench.
Care must be taken that no supports cross the trench under any of the seats, and that a metal deflector is placed to deflect urine into the pit, otherwise fouling will occur. The rest of the construction can be to the taste of the club, as long as it is waterproof and dry.
MAINTENANCE: IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THE FOLLOWING RULES BE OBSERVED TO ENSURE CORRECT FUNCTIONING.
(1) Disinfectants should NEVER be used - these kill off the bugs and prevent liquefaction - though seats should be scrubbed DAILY with a weak solution, providing it doesn't leak into the pit.
(2) To counteract odour and flies, a handful of bleaching powder in each opening daily will suffice.
(3) Always use a recognised TOILET PAPER and NEVER NEWSPAPER! Printing ink destroys the bugs, while toilet paper will dissolve and not interfere with the working.
(4) It is essential to provide lighting at night.
(5) A bowl of water containing disinfectant should be kept in a convenient place, for rinsing the hands after using the closet, and children should be taught to use it.
SUMMARY.
A happy, hospitable, and popular Sun Club must attend to these elementary hygienic standards. With proper safeguards and attention we can raise the ideals of the Naturist Movement.
ERIC of Kaurimu
Eric has always been afflicted with a radical temperament and, without knowing why, ever tended to take the unorthodox and unpopular stand on everything controversial. In fact he still has, as his firmest conviction (and much study to prove it) that popular ideas are ALWAYS wrong. Popular ideas are those inculcated by mass hypnotism to suit the purpose of those intent on the mass acceptance of such notions for their own profit and power. Nothing was more natural therefore than that doubt regarding the prevailing acceptance of the indecency of the human body inclined Eric to indulge in sunbathing when opportunity offered and made acceptance of Bernarr McFadden's early nudist preaching a certainty.
From that, the same temperament led on to the attempt to form a nudist club in Dunedin. The dour (both climatically and religiously) atmosphere did not lend itself to easy establishment of such a break in the conventional viewpoint. Change to Auck1and (1937) and the broader minded attitude there allowed a more realistic experience of organised nudity and this again naturally led on to acquiring a property eminently suited for sunbathing which he could be responsible for and make available to any who were of like mind. The disappointments associated with all movements have been overcome and Eric has learned from his own mistakes as well as those of others, to take ups and downs as they come and not to be too worried.
Free from all superstition, and as already stated, able to see that mass opinion is carefully manipulated to suit ends other than those of the people's welfare and true happiness, Eric, always a rebel and non-conformist by study and temperament, and while aware that nudity is not the end-all of existence, realises that, in its own way, it points the way the race should go intellectually and physically. Freedom of thought and action is the only sacred cause Eric recognises and as nudity is part of that wholesome trend he cannot but be a helper and staunch advocate whenever possible.
(Next issue we will bring you a portrait of another early enthusiast who is still with us, Norman Murray of Hamilton. Ed.)
It will probably be unnecessary for me to mention that the few paragraphs which follow are nothing at all to do with the American Presidentia1 residence, and have no connection in any way with any forthcoming Summit conference, or anything of the sort.
The White House with which we are concerned at the moment is recognised as Britain's premier sun club, and is situated about twenty miles south of London. It is on a private road, just off one of the main South roads, and has the advantage of being very handy to public transport, being only a few minutes walk from the railway station, with a good bus service passing within a hundred yards of the gate.
The club house stands on a hillside in the centre of wooded grounds of about five acres, and the general layout of the grounds bears some resemblance to the Wellington Club, in that the area is about the same size, and there is a steep wooded hill at the back of the property, with the club house on a level site lower down.
The house itself is large and airy. The two upper floors contain twelve bedrooms, each with a gas fire, and there are baths and toilets on both of these floors. The ground floor has a large lounge, and a dining room seating forty, across the front of the building, and a smaller lounge at the back in which a television set is installed. Next to the dining room there is a separate wing comprising kitchens on the ground floor, and a separate flat above for the resident cook and his wife.
The grounds are well sheltered with many lawns, terraces, and flower beds, all very nicely kept, and it is hard. to imagine a more ideal setting for a club of this type. Although there are several keen gardeners amongst the members, one in particular is most enthusiastic, spends nearly all his time at the club in the various garden plots, and the results are excellent indeed, and he has, I understand, been successful in winning awards at various horticultural shows with blooms from the White House gardens.
One of the outstanding features of the club is its excellent swimming pool, which will be well known to many of you, as it appears as a background in photos in the H. & E. magazine fairly regularly. It is fifty feet long and twenty-five feet wide, with a maximum depth of 7'6" off the diving board shelving to 3'6" at the shallow end. It 1s equipped with a modern filtration plant whereby the water is constantly circulated through a large cylinder which cleans and chlorinates it before pumping it back into the pool over a small waterfall at the shallow end. The water is beautifully clean at all times, and I must say that it is a most delightful pool, in a very pleasant setting of lawns, trees and shrubs. Near the shallow end there is a separate pool, about ten feet square for the children, and adjacent to the deep end is a building with separate showers and toilets for men and women at each end, and on open space in the centre with easy chairs for those who just want to sit in the sun.
At the back of this building there is a heating system installed which can be used to give the water circulating from the pool a slight rise in temperature when required. This is not used very much and on one of the few times it was put into operation last year, I was left in charge of it during the day, and managed to let the fire in the boiler go out, so we didn't get much benefit from it I am afraid. In some of the H. & E. photos of the pool, you may have noticed some writing along the edge of the building roof and wondered, what it was. It reads "Ore Stabit Fortis Arare Placeto Restat", and you don't need to be a Latin scholar to translate it. The pool can be floodlit at night, for evening bathing in the warmer weather.
Other features of the grounds include two hard tennis courts, which get a lot of use both during the week and especially at the weekends, tennis being a very popular recreation. The courts are always fully booked all day Saturdays and Sundays, play continuing all the time during daylight hours providing it is not raining too hevi1y. There is also a grass padder court. Padder tennis is played much like ordinary tennis, only the court is very much smaller, and wooden bats are used instead of the usual tennis racquet. Another grass court about the same size is available for badminton and quoits, and if the weather is too bad for outdoor activities you can always retire to the small building with the table tennis equipment installed, and get some more exercise there.
One feature of more than passing interest is the Finnish Sauna Bath situated in one corner of the grounds. This comprises an insulated wooden building, somewhere about sixteen feet by eight feet. The outside door opens into a small cubicle where one can leave one's towel etc., and a second door leads into the main part of the building, which has seats around three of the walls and a wood burning stove set into the ground on one side.
When this stove really gets going in a small and insulated space, it gets pretty warm, to put it mildly, and on the day when I had my first sauna the dial thermometer in the wall went up to 196 degrees fahrenheit. Even at that temperature the heat is not unbearable, because it is a very dry heat, but when someone tossed a jug of water on the top of the stove the resulting humidity made it just as if the gates of Hell itself had opened, and we all dashed out at great speed and rushed under the cold shower located just outside. After the shower we all went back for some more, and subsequently had a swim in the pool to round off a most refreshing and exhilarating experience.
It is to be hoped that in due course some of the N.Z. clubs will install sauna baths, which should not entail great expense, and which would, I feel sure prove very popular with members. Not only does a sauna tone up the system, and tend to ward off colds etc., but it is, I understand, popular with any lady members who may be interested in slimming.
And now few words about the organisation and administration of the club itself. The White House was first opened in 1933 as a proprietory sun club, and in 1944 was purchased by members who formed a limited liability company for the purpose. The name of the company does not include the words "White House", so that any legal formalities with government departments etc. do not associate shareholders of the company with the White House Club. It is quite independent, and is not affiliated with either of the British Sunbathing Associations.
The club is run in a proper professional manner. All the members are shareholders in the company, and at the annual general meeting they appoint a board of directors for the ensuing twelve months, just like any other company. The board of directors appoints a membership committee who handle new applications for membership, and the board itself meets once a month to discuss the club's affairs and to decide on matters of policy etc. At the end of the financial year the directors submit an annual report and audited accounts to shareholders, who of course have the opportunity of discussing these at the annual general meeting.
Total membership runs into several hundred, but one never sees them all as they are scattered all over Britain, some on the Continent, and a few dotted about all over the English speaking world. Also the club has an unusual provision to the effect that members who will not be using the club at all during he coming year, and who notify the secretary to that effect, do not have to pay any subscription, so a member may miss a year and return again later on.
Generally speaking the White House is run as a country club, and although membership is of course open only to bona fide sunbathers, quite a lot of members do come down to the club on wet or cloudy days, either to play tennis if the weather is not too bad, or to play cards, or have a cup of tea and a chat with other members. Many have belonged for many years, some since pre-war days, and they know one another very well, all of which makes for an atmosphere of good fellowship and pleasant friendliness.
During the summer, quite a number of members and their families have their annual holidays at the club and spend two or three weeks there. On weekdays, members having some time to spare frequently ring up and order lunch, and come down for the day, for a swim and perhaps a game of tennis. One or two members whose place of business is not too far away even come down during the lunch hour if the weather is sunny. The result is that there are people coming and going more or less all the time in the summer months.
However, the weekends are the really busy times, and about forty usually stay overnight, with the result that you have to book early if you want accommodation. Sunbathing, swimming and tennis are the big attractions during the day, and in the evenings contract bridge, scrabble, and the television, unless someone has a birthday to celebrate, or a dance or fancy dress party has been organised.
All this of course means a lot of work - bookings to be arranged, meals to b prepared, rooms to be cleaned, and a big pile of laundry after each weekend, and a full time staff is necessary to take care of these matters. A cook and his wife look after the meals, the manageress arranges the bookings and accommodation, and supervises the housekeeping and the laundry, at least one other is employed on domestic work, and in addition there is a part-time gardener who looks after the pool, mows the lawns, and looks after the grounds generally.
You probably think that all this makes membership a pretty expensive matter, but considering the amenities offered, subscriptions are really very reasonable. There are of course various types of membership, and those living some considerable distance from the club pay less than those living fairly close. In addition however, members are classified by age groups, and members under thirty years of age pay less than those over thirty.
Taking as an example a couple or a single man living in the London area, who pay the highest rates, the annual subscription is £5.15.0. if under thirty years of age, and £9.5.0. if over 30, for an "ordinary" member, who of course is entitled to full use of the club at all times, winter and summer.
The accommodation charges are also very reasonable, and although I understand they have been increased slightly since, during a stay of four months during the summer of 1958 I was charged £5.12.6. a week, which covered full board and accommodation, and all meals, including morning and afternoon teas and suppers.
A wonderful place for a holiday, and I am at present saving hard for another visit.
International Naturist Federation
AUSTRIA.
We are pleased to report that our friends in Austria have been successful in finding an alternative to their Lobau camp on the Danube. The new location is on the coast of a lake in grand alpine scenery. An excess of sunshine and a scarcity of mosquitoes makes this most attractive. As the area has already been run as a naturist resort, it is available for immediate use.
U.S.A.
Heartening news comes from America that the two national associations, which have been in some considerable disagreement in years gone by, are now pulling together in unity by cooperating in their fights against unfair legislation. We understand that each of them are feeding a different type of membership and when they can get along happily together, they can each be a power for good. N.Z. wishes them every possible success and looks forward to even better news as time goes by.
Another report savouring of the sensational comes from Macone, where a nude bathing club had its grounds infested with tons of insect larvae from the woman who lived next door. If the insects were of the biting kind, we can feel for the bathers.
AUSTRALIA.
It is with regret that we read of the closing down of one of Aussie's most popular clubs, Sunray of Melbourne.
It appears that development plans in the vicinity threaten their privacy and Jim and Reta have only one course left open to them. It is their intention to stay on but the club is now searching for another site. Tough luck folks, but it could be worse.
News has just reached us that the magazine Sun Review is once again changing its administration and will be operated from Queensland. The magazine Solar, which closed down some time ago is being revived and will take over the previous address used by its companion paper.
CORSICA.
This enterprising project has aroused wide interest among naturists everywhere and there is every indication that the plans will fully materialise. The new road to link the Intersun area with the main highway will be ready for this season. M. Claude Ritter de Broc, the instigator of the scheme has received encouragement and has appointed an international committee to help further his plans. A plot of land has been put at the disposal of the INF and it is hoped to be able to raise sufficient funds to enable an INF House to be built at Intersun. Solsport Unionen, Denmark, and the National Nudist Council, U.S.A. are two national associations having plots of land at Intersun. Ritter de Broc is endeavouring to contact people interested in being employed in the area. It is planned to build a restaurant, a photographic shop, a soft drink bar, etc. Some employees will be needed to work in these. A number will be able to have part-time employment during their stay at Intersun, with payment. The remainder of their time will be free.
By Doug., Wellington Sun & Health Society Inc.
Since my article on these springs in the last issue of the Review I have received some further information. With the exception of Opal and Lakeside, the details given below have been kindly passed on by Ray of Whakatane.
Opal Springs: (Matamata.) In addition to the main public bath mentioned last issue, I find there are two other baths, including a large private mineral pool where costumes are not required. This pool has curative properties for rheumatism, neuritis and similar complaints.
Lakeside Motor Camp: Koutu, Rotorua. Hot mineral baths, both public and private.
Golden Springs: (See last issue.) Slightly towards Rotorua over the road from the main springs, through the bush. Costumes not necessary but a sign asks you to "Cooee" before reaching the actual pool.
Reporoa (Between Rotorua & Golden Springs.): 1½ miles past township, along a 500 yard track is Butcher's Pool. Costumes worn in afternoons 3 - 6.30. when locals are there, not necessary at other times.
Kawhia: On coast below Raglan. Costumes worn.
Whenuakite: (See last issue.) No costumes. Between tides you dig a pit in the sand and obtain a soak in the hot water.
Onepu: Near Kawerau, along a 1¾ mile private road. Costumes not required, used by Maori and Pakeha.
Rotokawa: Rotorua (not Rotokawau) Palisaded pool at end of road. Costumes not required.
Rotoehu Soda Springs: (Rotorua) Charge of 1/-, costumes worn, though at night very often discarded.
Sulphur Bay Pools: Rotorua (Rotoiti) Most easily approached by boat from Wishing Tree Inn. 3 pools open to public, no charge, costumes usually worn.
Taupo: Spa Hotel, ABC Baths and Terraces Hotel all have private baths for hire.
Turangi: Hot pools, private baths for hire. It is understood there are also Maori pools nearby.
Mt. Tongariro: Ketatahi, 48OO ft. climb - 3 miles. Costumes are not necessary but owing to the altitude beware of sunburn.
Orakei Korako: In the Maiden's Grotto is a very nice hot pool, crystal clear water that looks six feet deep, but is over thirty feet deep! Swimming without costumes has often been done here. WARNING. Last time I went there the ten mile road from Atiamuri was the worst I had ever traversed, and it is doubtful if it is any better now!
Here is the third and final entry for teenagers in the essay competition held at the 6th International Naturist Congress at Woburn Abbey in England last year.
It has occurred to us that the N.Z.S.A. could, well follow the example set by the I.N.F and the A.S.A. and institute our own teenage competition at National Rallies, thus further showing our interest in the young people and encouraging them to maintain their interest in naturism.
Here is the suggestion:
The competition be open to all naturist teenagers eighteen years or younger.
The competition would be won by the young nudist who best explains "What Nudism Means to the Teenagers." in 1000 words or less.
Judges to be appointed from the N.Z.S.A. Executive and the winner to be announced at the following National Rally and the entry to be published in this Review.
Entries should be the sole work of the competitor and be sent to this office not later than 20th December.
To make this suggestion even more attractive, is there a member willing to donate a prize, either a trophy or in cash, to be contested annually?
Let us hear your views on this important subject.
WHY I AM IN THE NATURIST MOVEMENT.
Essay C 1 by Dietmar Cramer, Germany, age 17, winner of the third prize.
"I had never held a very high opinion of the naturist movement. Only very few of my school companions had anything positive to say about it, although they included my best friend. They said that the photos in all the "pin-up" magazines originated in the naturist camps, that evil things were done there, and so on. It was on a fine sunny afternoon that my friend Heinz and I left the gym as we made our way home. I don't know how the subject came up, but suddenly we found ourselves in the middle of a discussion about naturism. My friend said he was in a naturist group and felt very much at ease there. At first I received a shock. I had, it is true, always been puzzled at the fine sun-tan he had acquired, but the idea that Heinz should be a member of such a club and allow himself to be used for pin-up photos! I was disgusted and became cool and reserved. After a while when he had explained things further - how it really was - I regained confidence and in the end was even asking for details. He told me of the sport and exercise without clothing at the club. About the cleanliness in thought and action of naturism and the youth groups, the journeys together in the summertime. We had just reached my hall door as Heinz said: "Look it is a lovely day. Why not come with me and see for yourself that what I said is true." I did not take long to come to a decision - it was yes.
(We humbly apologise, but the remainder of this essay has been mislaid. Ed.)
Auckland Outdoor Health Club Inc. (Members.) Box 2072, Auckland.
Our club house grows apace, though we've an uneasy feeling that it might not be quite as finished as we would wish for the Rally. However, at least there's a roof, walls and a floor! Now that we have had our Annual General Meeting we feel that the season has started, even though the weather tells us otherwise. However, those who consult their Old Moore's Almanac, their bunions and other auspicious signs tell us we're in for a corker summer. If you are still uncertain about coming to the Rally let that persuade you!
The A.G.M. re-elected Gerald as President, installed Rudolf as Vice-President and Mabel a sour new Secretary, re-elelected Norman as Treasurer and appointed committee members: Karin, Hermien, Eve, Nancy, Colin B., Colin K., Bill 1 & Jock.
Kaurimu Sun Club Inc. (Members.) Box 15, Glen Eden, Auckland.
I am afraid that there is not much to say of activities at this time of the year, as like most clubs, there is not much to do. (Utopia, Ed.) Also we are in the position that, while there is a lot we COUlD do here, and which I hope to see done in the future, the club is practically right up to all work actually necessary.
Then of course the sudden death of Norman Sager has left us a bit dazed and disorganised for a while. When the weather takes up and the days lengthen we will resume and expand.
Auckland Sun Club. (Members.) Box 2925, Auckland.
We have lost one or two members, including Ray Martin's widow, but have had enquiries from prospective members. The few of us left are hoping to be able to make up for some of the time lost when things were in a state of stagnation due to the late Ray's unfortunate illness. We are hoping to at least fix some lining in the club house and to give it a coat of paint. Also we will try with what limited finance there is to at least get water laid on to the top of the road down. Norman has written to say that he hopes some of the visitors to the Rally would like to stay at or visit the grounds, with which sentiment we heartily concur.
Waikato Health Club... Mooloo Sunbashers. (Forming.) Box 4O32, Hamilton East.
No report.
Gisborne Sun Club. (Forming.) c/- Box 6359, Wellington.
No report.
Wanganui Sun Club. (Members.) Box 410 Wanganui.
No report.
Wel1ington Sun & Health Society Inc. (Members.) Box 6359, Wellington.
When members are happy they cooperate and this is the experience of this progressive club. Weekends lately have seen everybody singing at their work and the grounds are really taking rapid shape. The enlarged kiddies area is levelled and sown in grass, flower beds are free of weeds and are planted ready for the summer. Work on the club house is proceeding and members are enjoying overnight stays, especially as we now have some comfortable furniture in the lounge. Permanent bunks are a necessity. The car park is being levelled and freed from roots and a larger area is being prepared ready for the expected increase in cars shortly. The long awaited pool is now under way and the first concrete has been poured. Our builder, and engineer, under David's expert eye, are doing a grand job and all the odd bods who do what they are told are doing just that. Donations are keeping level with expenses, too. That pool must be ready for this season.
Well attended and varied socials are keeping us in touch and helping to swell the pool fund too. Indications suggest quite a party will be travelling to Auckland for the Rally. Can you beat this? We have received our first Xmas card. And here's a laugh. A traffic inspector member borrowed a friend's truck and carted up several tons of shingle for us. He collected a ticket for overloading.
Canterbury Sun & Health Club Inc. (Members.) Box 1823, Christchurch.
Activity has been at a high pitch this year, hardly a winter's weekend passing without a working party busy out at the grounds. Tree planting, one of the major jobs affected, has been most successful and hundreds of young trees are now thriving around the perimeter. The games courts received their fair share of attention, with a new second Volley Ball court and miniature golf course sporting a new crop of grass. Both these amenities will be in operation next season. Kiddies Korner was improved by the construction of a much larger sand-pit, to accommodate our ever growing assortment of children, and the provision of a slide which was donated by Gerry. Added to our swings, see-saws, and splash-pool they indicate the importance that we at CSHC attach to looking after the enjoyment of our kiddies.
Extensive alterations to our water supply involved the installation of a new pump, redesigning of the piping and the erection of a further tank. Our windmill, now released from its old job is in the process of overhaul before starting work in the filtration of the pool. Access to the grounds has been bettered by the construction of a new entrance and drive, providing a circuit of the camping grounds. On the Social side, film evenings, dances, and socials have kept us busy in the winter months. Now that summer is upon us we look forward to a happy season, amongst our nudist friends.
Otago Sun & Health Club. (Members.) Box 2058, South Dunedin.
No report.
Southern Sun& Health Club. (Members.) Box 486, Invercargill.
We are purchasing six of the 65 acres bought by our secretary and have an option on further areas as finance permits. The balance of the bush can be used for walks etc. Work has started on clearing the grounds of bracken, blackberry, stumps and dead Manuka. It will be a long job, but we will get there.
ALL clubs are earnestly requested to see that we have reports of their activities in time for publication in EACH issue. Others are just as keen to learn about you as you are to learn about them. Ed.
Noted:-
Doug Cousins: Hot Springs of NZ
Ken & Joan Treanor: Thanks Kaurimu
Pen Portrait: of Eric Flint
