#  96 - March 1981 

The quotation "A family that plays together, stays together" can be applied to a Nudist Rally as well as a Nudist Club. A New Zealand Nudist Federation (N.Z.N.F.) Rally is a sport and recreation event over five days hosted by one of the clubs in New Zealand.

It aims to cater for people of all ages, particularly the family. Preceded by the Annual General Meeting of the N.Z.N.F. it is also a place to make and renew friendships.

After the Wellington Rally there was some difficulty in finding a venue to hold the next one. The offer of the use of the former Lowgarth Dairy Factory in Central Taranaki by one of our members, Claude Wuest, proved to be a godsend. Being a dairy farmer tied to his farm at this time of the year, his theory was "if he could not go to a Rally, the Rally could come to him."

Without costly development the Taranaki Naturist's Club grounds are not suitable for holding Rallies. Once the members had given their approval to hold the Rally, permission had to be gained from the N.Z.N.F. and the Eltham County Council. The main concern of the County Council and the Rally Committee was that a high standard of hygiene would have to be maintained during the Rally.

Once permission was granted, rubbish and unnecessary hedges and trees had to be cleared away, and some areas of land levelled for extra camping and sports courts. The factory, latterly used by a sandblaster, had to be thoroughly washed down and cleaned out.

Unlike holding a Rally at a Club where many of the facilities needed are already permanent fixtures, we had to construct many facilities from scratch, as well as screen 500 metres from the road. Fortunately there was an abundance of space inside the factory and a concrete yard at the back, suitable for a miniten court, plus a good water supply. If we had been unfortunate enough to have had wet weather during the Rally we could have entertained people and played sport inside. As it was, we put a second miniten court inside.

Construction jobs included a portable swimming pool which was sold to Geyserland Leisure Park after the Rally: water reticulated around the site, a boiler for hot water, holes drilled for toilets and rubbish, poles put up along the fence ready for the scrim for screening and when a small cork lined room was discovered a Sauna plunge pool and spa pool complex was built. Unfortunately the first ablutions block had to be demolished because a storm made it unsafe, however we soon found somewhere else for it. A tree blown down in the same storm was cut up then brought over to the factory, where it was used for firewood.

Whilst all of this was being constructed there was a lot of activity going on behind the scenes. The registration forms had to be sent out to all the Clubs, then later individual replies sent to all the people who registered. A booth licence was obtained from the Court House.

The Police, Fire Brigade and the Press were informed of our activities and invitations to attend the Rally opening issued. Local firms were contacted to have supplies brought in - i.e. a butcher, greengrocer, milkman and a supermarket for groceries. We even approached a licensed restaurant for those wishing to dine out. Then there was the purchase of endless supplies for the construction jobs, sports equipment and children's activities

- the most important here being the purchase of a trampoline. As in the case of every organisation the dedication, determination and hard work of a few people right from the beginning ensured that everything was prepared for the Rally.

People from other Clubs arrived early, even before Christmas, to help complete all the last minute jobs.

Toilets were erected, screening was put up along the fence, sports courts marked out and the swimming pool surround completed. The night before the A.G.M. our main concern was that the rain that we had had over the previous seven days, would stop. Most of the 240 adults and 150 children who were attending the Rally were already in residence.

Monday, the day of the A.G.M. was cloudy but dry and thereafter we had beautiful fine weather. Mt Egmont was in prominent display for most of the Rally, proving that it is not a myth, as many people would have us believe.

That night, the first of our nightly entertainments was a "Family Welcoming Night" enlivened by Denis and his Disco, accompanied by much chin wagging as many friendships were renewed and new ones made. The next morning we were woken by the song "I can see clearly now the rain has gone." Soon everyone was bustling about and getting down to the serious business of interclub sports which would take place over the next five days, Volleyball, Miniten, table tennis, Tenniquoits, swimming, chess and indoor bowls were all competed for.

at 10.30am everything stopped for the official opening of the Rally by the M.P. for New Plymouth - Mr TONY FRIEDLANDER. Our other official guest was Mr D. C. Pease, Deputy Chairman of the ELTHAM County Council. Mr Friedlander commented that people were generally more tolerant of other peoples beliefs these days, and that nudism and freedom of dress is much more acceptable than previously. As he declared the 1980/81 Rally open, the N.Z.N.F. and T.N.C. flags were raised. Twenty minutes before the opening it was suddenly realised that the flag pole had not been erected. The hole was frantically dug and the pole put in place just in time.

When our guests were shown around they were surprised at our relatively sophisticated facilities, even to the extent of having a booth licence. They were also impressed with the great number of sporting activities going on. (The local residents were also surprised at how orderly and well organised the Rally was, plus the lack of offensive noise.)

On Tuesday night there was a Wine and Cheese evening for the adults again accompanied by Denis's Disco, plus a full length movie for the children.

Wednesday - New Years Eve - we had a band which played on and on. They enjoyed themselves as much as we did. The children had a fancy dress and disco which somehow did not get off with such a swing. This being the night we were most likely to get gatecrashers a patrol was set up to go right through the night. So many people offered to help that each pair only did half an hour and T.N.C. members were given the night off.

On New Years day everything moved at a slightly slower pace, including the sport. While the swimming sports were being held in the afternoon a group of people were given a conducted tour around the mountain. This took in Taranaki's gas and energy projects, the famous Pukekura Park in New Plymouth plus our club grounds. Seventy people enjoyed a trip out to dinner at a licensed restaurant that night. It was unfortunate that the restaurant could not cope with any more.

The highlight of the concert held on the 2nd January, was the Whistlers Dance, to the tune "The day we went to Bangor" performed by four Rotorua club ladies. The costumes and makeup really enhanced those "eye" movements. A "Celebrity Roast" of the "Present, Past and Forgotten" Presidents of the N.Z.N.F. ended the show. It must be the first time the present President - Peter James and two past Presidents Ron Rencher and Ian Fairbrother have been at a Rally or any official gathering together.

The last day saw the completion of the finals of many of the sports with the highlights being the final of the senior volleyball fought between the Nudist Youth Club and Wellington in a long awaited battle. N.Y.C. emerged triumphant. All that then remained of the Rally was the women's gathering with the new Women's Representative Netta Drake, the presentation of trophies, the General Members Meeting and the farewell family disco.

There were some unscheduled sports played during the Rally. The main conditions of these games was that they must be played with originality and break as many rules as possible. The Rotonaki volleyball game was played with much enthusiasm to these rules. Buckets of water along with Selwyn's land cruiser on the court helped the game along. Taranaki emerged the dubious winners of the game for an unmentionable trophy. The Gisnaki "Pot" was played with golf clubs. From the top of a hill the opposing players, Peter James T.N.C. and Ian Fairbrother G.S.C. had to aim a golf ball at a trough on the opposite hill. Gisborne took back the "Pot" this year.

The Tasman Shield was played for in the same manner, with Wal Petterssen representing Australia and Ron Rencher New Zealand. After a few false starts in both games, balls flew in all directions, but eventually Australia took back the shield from New Zealand.

The day after the Rally a boatload of people went on a trip up the Wanganui River on the Riverboat M.V. "Waireka"; they had a barbecue luncheon at Hipango Park before doing the return journey. It was a most enjoyable day for those who went.

Those who stayed behind started to clean up and dismantle the facilities. So much was completed that day, that those remaining were able to leave on the Monday night.

Many people left to stay at the Taranaki Club Grounds or to travel around visiting other Clubs. The more unfortunate had to go straight back to work.

Looking back over the Rally there were many incidents and factors that contributed to its success. One of the most important of these was in having members from many different Clubs running the various sports and helping with the newsletter, the children's activities, the rubbish, the shop, the bar and in any other way that they could.

It was surprising that DENNIS WADSWORTH did not lose his voice during the Rally, as not only did he run a very lively disco at night, but also manned the communication system during the day.

This was the first time a Sauna has actually been provided as part of the facilities.

Another first was the availability of coloured photos taken by the photographers. This can be likened to colour TV versus black and white.

Unexpectedly, we had an international flavour to the Rally with not only Australians, but also Hawaiians and Germans attending. We hope they will return to future Rallies bringing other overseas visitors with them.

People from all walks of life attended the Rally. One does not need to be a top-class sports person either. It's not your social or financial status that counts either, but the friendliness of the people and the sportsmanship found there. "Boss Hogg" Peter and his hard working band of helpers can look back with pride at the success of the Rally, especially as none of the committee had been involved in the organisation of a Rally before.

Of course, it was an anticlimax when the Rally ended. After all those months of preparation and anticipation it was quite depressing to see everyone leave. However we soon got over that and are now looking forward to the next Rally when we will be able to sit back and enjoy everything.

GUEST EDITORIAL

Peter James.

President N.Z.N.F.

As we start another year, and in my opinion, a very important time in the nudist movement, we have to take stock of ourselves and see where we are going.

The general public is obviously curious about nudism and the best way to educate them is to be open about all aspects of our life style. The days have gone of high fences. With so much nudity on the beaches the Clubs have to produce and offer an environment to attract the public inside the club gate.

Our movement is a total movement, for the family and the single person, be they young or not so young. No organisation that I know of in New Zealand, caters so much for the family unit. To attract new members, we have to be more forward looking and progressive in our approach to promotion.

With the cost of petrol rising all the time, people are not going to travel as far or so often, to the free beaches, so the Clubs must provide recreational facilities that will attract people to join.

I am very pleased to see our magazine on the book shelves again. This is the best public relations vehicle we have and I would encourage everyone to support it. We need it and likewise it needs you.

The new N.Z.N.F. Supporters scheme will go a long way to promote nudism in New Zealand and hopefully the Clubs will reap the benefits from this over the coming years.

Finally I would like to think we are all individual Clubs and people, but we need to get closer together to share our common ideas and problems in the bond of friendship and nudism in the N.Z.N.F. UNITY AND UNDERSTANDING IS STRENGTH.

REFLECTIONS

by Ron Rencher

With the election of a new National President of the N.Z.N.F. it signalled the end of an era with the retirement of Ron Rencher. The following article by Ron reflects on the N.Z. nudist movement over the last few years.

What have we to show for the past two years by way of progress? Public acceptance? yes, certainly. This has been a gradual process of quite a few years that seems to have accelerated. Now the subject of nudity is almost greeted with a yawn. Most nudists today seem to be able to admit to belonging to a club. I know in my experience, very few condemn it, although there are very many who feel that they personally could not participate but have no objection to others doing so. Several beaches are regularly used with no complaints and the day cannot be far away when an official beach is named. The uniting of the Free Beach Group with the Federation must be a major step forward, and I am pleased that I had a part in this, as they are playing an important role in pushing our ideals directly to the public, something only a few members of clubs were previously willing to do.

The establishment of the Mapua Leisure Park and the Geyserland Leisure Park as clothing optional areas, for the public to meet nudists on common ground, must also count as a large step forward.

Weighed against this progress, we are becoming complacent. Many clubs have all the amenities that they want, or are very close to it, and seem to want to keep it for themselves. They refuse to look outside their own environment to see what can be done on the national scene to help establish new clubs in areas that are without one, or new clubs who are struggling along on their own. The established clubs have forgotten the hard work that was put in by the few pioneers to give them what they have today. Even the Annual General Meetings of the National have lost the fire and enthusiasm of the past.

However, I feel that solid progress has been made and I hope will be continued in the future. Let us not get as complacent as the nudists at an established beach in America, only to see it all taken away from them because they did not go out to vote. They were too busy sunbathing.

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N.Z.N.F. ANNUAL PRIZES

The Executive of the NZNF has decided to offer the following annual prizes:

A.  An NZNF Contribution prize for the best article published in the Naturist, on or about Nudism, by any contributor, in any one calendar year.

B.  An NZNF Photographic Prize for the best family photograph published in the Naturist NOT TAKEN AT RALLIES, by any contributor in any one calendar year.

C.  An NZNF Media Prize, for the best article published in any newspaper, or magazine on nudism or about nudism in New Zealand, in any one year.

So far as prizes A & B are concerned, the Executive will appoint three judges to examine each issue of the Naturist in the 12 month period, to determine which, in their opinion, is worth awarding the appropriate prize. The judges decision will be final. The contributors may have had their article or photograph published under a non de plume, and this will not bar consideration. Where, in the opinion of the judges no one article or photograph comes up to a standard worthy of a prize, then no prize need be awarded that year.

Each prize will be worth $25.

So far as Prize C is concerned, any articles which are considered worthy should be submitted either by the author, or a club with the author's permission, and if necessary the editor of the newspaper or magazine, the NZNF Secretary, BEFORE December 1 of each year. A panel of judges, appointed by the Executive, will consider each entry and award a prize to the entry which, in their opinion, best reflects nudism in NZ in a realistic manner. The judges decision will be final, and where no entries are received or entries are not up to a standard worthy of a prize, no prize will be awarded.

The prize will be worth $25.

Prize winners will be announced at the NZNF AGM.

DO YOU MEAN IT?

"Rudie Nudie" said the voice on the end of the phone as I picked it up for the 200th time that evening. Without waiting for a reply the caller rang off, leaving me to contemplate the pleasures of being a club PRO, who had (foolishly) listed his phone number in a newspaper advertisement for new members.

Whilst many such calls are simply funny and the odd one downright stupid and nasty, there is no doubt of the need to bring our organisations to the attention of the general public. By far the majority of people approach the subject of nudism with a balanced and open mind and although they may not wish to join a club, their interest is no less genuine and must be treated as such.

On scores of occasions people have asked me such questions as "Aren't you all health freaks?" or "Does your wife know you belong?" Obviously we have a responsibility to answer such questions honestly. However, they also indicate that there is still a significant misconception about the purpose and objectives of nudist clubs as recreational organisations.

Frequently we find ourselves the brunt of a cartoonist's wit and, of course, such humour is taken in good part. However, if we expect our clubs to thrive and gain acceptance in the community, we must be prepared to go beyond our advertising and raffles to inform non-nudists what we believe and what part we play in society in general, for we are all comprised of, exist in and rely upon the greater social community, not only as individual members but as corporate club identities.

For years we have hidden behind anonymity in the belief that this will preserve the quality of our way of life. Such as position can only be considered naive, since congruent with anonymity is the concept that we are ashamed of what we do, thus giving rise to the very misconceptions which we are at such pains to dispel. If club members feel that they have cause to keep their membership secret from their workmates and friends for fear of reprisal or rejection, it is only because the nature of our recreation is inadequately understood beyond the club gates. In fact, many potential members, I believe, are reluctant to join a club for fear that their morality may be compromised. Let's face it; have they ever been told otherwise?

Now I am not saying that we should go forth and convert the populace to nudism or even that we have a selling job to do. What I am saying is that if I breed canaries and belong to a caged bird society, it would not be considered unreasonable if I made the fact known to others who may also keep birds and point out the advantages offered by the society. Similarly, as a nudist, I can scarcely expect to see the growth and development of my club if I am not prepared to let it be seen that my family and I derive considerable enjoyment from the facilities that a well organised club can provide. Nor can I expect to see new members joining an organisation about which I lack the courage to tell them.

Nobody will deny that the strength of any club rests entirely on it's membership and this is no less true of nudist clubs. From the members comes the finance and manpower to provide the pools, clubhouses, lawns and sports courts which are so much a part of club life. This membership, however, will not be as effective in it's role if it is not stimulated by the influence of new ideas, new faces and in some cases, a whole new philosophy of what their club is about.

It therefore follows that "new membership,""new blood," whatever you like to call it, becomes an essential ingredient in the recipe for a vital club.

How is this achieved? Simply by making it obvious to the community in which the club exists that "The Club" is not a synonym for a secret, esoteric society, whose interests centre on the depraved or fanatical, but quite simply one constituted for the purpose of allowing people to take their leisure in an atmosphere which is not distorted by false senses of propriety or developed for monetary gain.

The Nudist Clubs of New Zealand have witnessed some outstanding reversals in attitude on the part of not only local politicians but, through the media, a large percentage of "ordinary folk" with the result that partial or even total nudity is seldom taken exception to, even on public beaches. Far from undermining the usefulness of the clubs, this only serves to demonstrate that the epitome of nudism must lie in an environment where, not only is nudism encouraged but which provides exclusive facilities for nudists where all the benefits of nudity can be enjoyed without fear of prosecution and where even the children may be encouraged to take advantage of the joys of being without clothes without the risks attached to the use of general public areas which are open to all and sundry, regardless of propensity.

If we then see our clubs as worthy of our patronage, if we see them as a place where we go to rid ourselves of the burdens of normal daily life, if we see them as a venue where we can take our families to enjoy all the advantages of clothes-free recreation, why should we as responsible citizens of a country which has more to offer than many others, be more reticent to tell others of the delights of awaking in the morning, free and naked in the morning sunlight and of genuine open comradeship between people who have experienced for themselves the freedom which is appreciated by those who are prepared to accept that not only is nudity acceptable but that it s, in fact, desirable and a worthy cause for advancement to the society in which we live.

So then, all you Nudists, come out of the woodwork and show yourselves for the happy people you are. Don't leave it to your P.R.O. to convince society that the life we enjoy is idyllic and not the prerogative of a selected few. When the whole of your community acknowledges that it's local nudist club is an entity existing for the benefit of all people who wish to use it, then you have done your job as an advocate of a society in which people need not be ashamed of their bodies and which has a great deal to offer to those who are open enough to enjoy what it has to offer.

SOUTH AUCKLAND NUDIST CLUB

It's great to have the magazine back in print, spreading the good word. Members of the S.A.N.C. have been looking forward to its re-publication and hope all Nudists support this worthwhile magazine. Lots has happened out this side of town, members put their best foot forward and had the grounds just so for the "Pool Opening". "Robbie" was delighted to have the honour of cutting the cord and I do mean cord, we forgot the ribbon and all that was available was some yellow clothes line cord, it wasn't easy cutting through with a blunt pair of scissors. We were pleased to welcome many members from other Clubs.

We now have a delightful children's play ground, chemical toilets, and the showers are under construction. Our Club House has been lined and painted and much clearing up work around the grounds has been done. Over the Christmas period we were joined by several families on holiday and with the perfect summer weather, members have made full use of the facilities. A contingent of 34 S.A.N.C. members attended the N.Z.N.F. Rally and thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality extended to them.

Our younger members (and some of the older ones too) have found our creek a great fishing ground, and eel has become a popular delicacy on the BBQ, does anybody have a good recipe for eel, we are getting sick of it BBQ'd.

I am sure we can attribute the joining of many new members to the most welcome long hot summer. The BBQ works overtime around 5pm as many members during the week get away from it all and enjoy a swim, chat and a casual meal away from home.

SUNSHINE FAMILIES

Sunshine Families has at long last had electricity connected to the grounds so we are now able to supply power to visitors.

It has been extremely hot here lately, so the swimming pool is getting a lot of use. There is still a bit of work to do around the outside of the pool and it still has to be fenced in properly, but its great to have a swim in crystal clear water after using the dam for so long.

Our Junior Youth Group has been raising money in a big way recently via a Swim-A-Thon, with members sponsoring them for a few cents a lap; their ultimate aim is to raise enough money for a large slippery slide into the pool; they have raised more than half already.

Well that's all for now

From where the sun is naturally best.

WANGANUI SUN CLUB

The Wanganui Sun Club has progressed dramatically in the past year. We now have camping facilities for those who like back to nature settings with horizontal showers in the creek. We have adequate tank water and a two burner gas cooker and outdoor barbeque. The purchase of a full size trampoline has been followed by the marking out of volleyball, miniten and tenniquoit courts. Members have been throwing themselves into friendly competition, so much so that we have had a broken toe as a result.

A large contingent of members travelled to the rally in Taranaki, and Wanganui Club was delighted to win the Mowlem trophy for the largest percentage increase in members, with the donor of the trophy being the founder of this Club. It is interesting to note that the preparations for our Club's 30th birthday are in progress. Despite meagre membership records we are making an earnest attempt to contact many past members with a view to making it a successful reunion.

The Club is contemplating the purchase of an old school property which would allow greater development than our present grounds which we do not own. The outcome of our enquiries is still dependent on several other claimants, so we shall be up in the air for sometime yet.

It is our pleasure to host the NYC rally this year and we look forward to future visitors enjoying our hospitality.

A.C.T. NUDIST CLUB

Welcome back, "Naturist"! Since last issue, we've been busy with continuing episodes of our 'land saga'. The Club has now completed all the legal niceties and finalised the lease on the land. Now we're into the big, no-huge-job of site development.

At present we're operating very basic shower and toilet facilities, but over the coming months we'll be starting work on a permanent shower and toilet block. All being well, it should be completed in comfortable time for next summer's operations. Membership is continuing to improve, with an active promotional campaign, particularly on the Free Beach at Kambah Pool. We'll be trying out a new idea on winter promotion - if it works, we'll give details in a Later article. As always, we welcome visits from wandering club members, just drop us a few lines to P.O. Box 242, Woden A.C.T.

WAIKATO OUTDOOR SOCIETY INCORPORATED

The sun is shining, the rain has done its thing, but we are definitely here! The pool is in use, Pine Ridge is milled and the rubbish burnt. Number three gully pines are milled and the new "farmer track" is made. The car park is extended and so is the camping area, but the solitary power point for caravans is out of action for a while. At last we have a 1200 sq. ft. club house! It needs a lot of work but we are half way there. Anyone requiring a derelict and condemned cowshed, please contact the secretary urgently! We've had campers, visitors and lookers, from all over, this summer and the grounds have never looked or been so busy over the holiday season. We've enjoyed our 44 gallon hot water bath, haven't we Wellington? Our membership is on the increase due to the publicity we have had. We were at the National Sports and Hobbies weekend at Mystery Creek in force, and you all heard about the prize that was won with an article about some of our members. All the usual happenings have been had and we will be having our open day in February and a trip to the beach in March we hope, so keep on reading the newsletters we send.

WELLINGTON SUN CLUB INC.

What a summer we have enjoyed this year! It makes us wonder why we should not be so favoured every year.

Needless to say, our members have been making full use of our grounds, not to mention the pools and the range of magnificent suntans to be seen on our main lawn testify to their enjoyment.

Have you noticed how in these days of inflation, rising fuel costs and all the rest how the Sun Club becomes a most attractive and comparatively inexpensive holiday venue? Certainly the number of campers on our grounds continues to increase and we have just opened up our fourth area of camping sites which has already been dubbed "Never Never Land" by it's inhabitants.

Despite the somewhat disappointing results of our national raffle, great plans are afoot for the further development and beautification of "Fiveacres" and we are confident that with the help of willing workers over the Winter months, next season will see us looking brighter than ever before.

We have a problem in Wellington which may not be common to all other clubs. Many of our members are transferred to "Head Office" for a year or two and then depart again leaving us with vacancies to be filled by new members. While we get to meet a wide variety of people in this way, it also keeps our recruiting on it's toes and we are pleased to say that we have welcomed quite a number of new faces to our club in the past year, many of whom have not been nudists before.

Naturally, media comment on our club is an effective means of bringing the benefits of nudism to the attention of the public in general and we are pleased to say that our local Upper Hutt newspaper has not let us down in this respect. It is also the reason that we are happy to welcome "The Naturist" back into publication and wish both the editorial staff and the magazine continued success in putting forward the views of the clubs and their members.

PACIFIC SUN CLUB NUDIST FARMLAND

"Pacific" is growing in membership and amenities, and although we are busy there is always a peaceful walk through the bush, fishing, canoeing, swimming (in our Tidal creek) or just relaxing away from the hustle and bustle.

Since the last report we have finished the Windmill. The showers now have hot water, via the fire system, but a solar system has just been installed. We have had water piped to various areas and a new shed for a bigger shop, so we can stock more than drinks and chips. A big lean-to awning has been built on to the existing Club hut. By the way our Annual Lu-Au went off marvelously good food and a live band (they have been booked for the N.A.Q. Sports Rally at Easter to be held at our Club). The Lu-Au was well patronised by Sunshine Families, Sun Leisure and Good Companions. One of our Mini courts is being cemented for the Easter Rally in case of wet weather and the Sauna is nearly finished.

YOUNG NUDISTS OF AUSTRALIA

In the past many attempts have been made to form nudist youth groups in Australia, usually at individual clubs. The adults who have attempted to form these groups have been disappointed when their efforts have been in vain. At the last Annual Australian Nudist Federation convention held at Rosco the youth from Australian clubs formed themselves into a national body. This body is called 'Young Nudists of Australia'. Group members ages will range from 13-25.

The Young Nudists of Australia have many hopes for the future. Their main aim is to keep the youth of Australia interested and active in the nudist movement. Greater participation comes with interest and that's what the nudist movement needs.

Two delegates from each individual club's youth group are going to represent their club at the Young Nudists of Australia second Annual Meeting. This meeting is to be held at the Helios club in Victoria during the 13th Annual A.N.F. Convention. At the meeting a name and emblem is going to be voted on, and the next years calendar formulated. The youth movement hopes to have its own camping area at the convention, where all young nudists can camp together.

At the Rosco convention many possible activities were discussed and at Helios it is hoped that we may hold a film night, disco, roller-skating, ten pin bowling, horse riding, and barbecues.

The Australian Nudist Federation have elected Mary Weston as the Youth Liaison Officer for 1981. We hope to work together for the mutual benefit of the whole nudist movement.

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EDITOR'S JOTTINGS

Woodlands Sun and Health Club - Australia, has had 54 new members in the last few months. Not bad considering that their annual open day in October was rained out.

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Taranaki Naturists Club members came to Auckland after the rally - they reckoned that they deserved a holiday.

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In keeping with the international trend to promote supporters groups, this issue has articles from both the N.Z.N.F. and A.N.F. concerning their respective schemes.

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Australia won the inter club trophy. The "Golf" match between Wally and Ron was Played during the rally. Maybe he played underarm golf?

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Congratulations to Wanganui Sun Club for winning the Mowlem Membership Trophy for an 89% increase in membership.

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I've heard that there is a strong movement for nudists clubs to change from playing Miniten to half-court tennis - what do you think?

TARANAKI NATURISTS CLUB

At present our grounds are looking really beautiful with the lawns and surrounding native trees sparkling green in the sunlight.

While the members were preparing for the Rally on another site, no major works could take place, but now that it is all over things are coming to life again.

The Rally was really successful and enjoyed by all those who attended. The Club has benefited in many ways from hosting the Rally. Even the local people were impressed by the organisation.

The new trampoline is in continual use by both "big" and small children. The Spa pool will be installed in the near future as well as the Miniten Court being sealed.

It was a pleasure having so many people visit our grounds, before, during and after the Rally, and to see the camping area full up. We hope everyone enjoyed their stay and will come again.

Our Cabaret is planned for the 8th August this year featuring the same band as we had for the New Year's Eve dance at the Rally. It will be held in the same venue as last year - at the Race Course.

A.N.F. CONVENTION REPORT

The 12th Annual A.N.F. Convention and Sports Rally was held at Rosco, which is just south of Newcastle, N.S.W. It's an area which has been badly affected by drought over the last few years - and guess what - the drought broke on arrival day, and we had 7cm of rain that night!

The next day saw lots of happy nudists (some dressed in green plastic garbage bags) playing such favourite Convention sports as Sloshing in the Mud, Bailing out Soggy Tents, and Diggin Trenches to carry Raging Rivers past your own campsite to flood somebody else's. Why does it always rain at Conventions?

The more conventional indoor sports got underway with darts and table tennis, and during breaks in the rain the petanque teams got into action.

Then the weather cleared, the sun came out, and sun baking and the rest of the sports commenced in earnest. Twelve clubs entered the sporting competition, with the Club of the Year going to Tindo with 24 points. Rosco came second with 20 points, and Helios third with 19. Rosco was also Junior Club of the Year. Congratulations all!

There had been some controversy before the sporting competition started as to whether or not non-affiliated clubs could compete in the sporting events. They are not entitled to, under A.N.F. rules. However the matter was settled effectively at the Sports Captain's meeting, and later the delegates at the Convention Meeting endorsed the ruling that non-affiliated clubs cannot compete in Convention sports.

Alan Neicho stood down as President of the A.N.F. after several years in office, and Peter Rowsell was elected unopposed as our new A.N.F. President. Bernard, our Vice President, presented Alan and his wife Phyllis on behalf of the A.N.F. with a lovely pair of engraved wine goblets, to say "thank you".

Rosemary Severs was re-elected as Assistant Secretary, and Rob Geerling was re-elected Treasurer. Tony Valenti of Rosco, who had done a superb job as convention Chairman, was elected A.N.F. Editor. Two new office bearers of the A.N.F. were created - Keith Murfet was elected Supporter Secretary, and Mary Weston returns to the A.N.F. as Youth Liaison Officer.

On other matters, it was announced at the Convention that an article in the April 17 edition of the "Australasian Post" about the Neicho family and the Australian nudist scene won the I.N.F. Press Prize, awarded for the best article world-wide about nudism in the non-nudist press. A New Zealand article came second - a scoop for our part of the world!

Summerland Nudist Club (N.S.W.) and the N.A.Q. both became affiliated with the A.N.F., while the application from Bangalee Nudist Skydivers was unsuccessfuL. An Australian Nudist Youth Association is to be set up. The next Convention will be held at Helios.

All in all a good Convention, and a tribute to the hard-working folk at Rosco who made it all possible.

Mike Severs A.N.F. Secretary

COMMENTS FROM THE
NATIONAL SECRETARY'S DESK

Another General Meeting has come and gone, and Council is to be applauded for approaching and resolving several major issues which were important to the movement in New Zealand.

One might be forgiven for saying that there was a great deal of enthusiasm, by enthusiasts. Enthusiasm is necessary in any organisation, but I really wonder if enthusiasts exuding enthusiasm is good enough, or whether it works against the general good of the movement.

Enthusiasts, irrespective of the nature of their enthusiasm, tend to be looked at warily by others not so enthused, particularly by those who may be interested in the subject matter and are looking for sane and reasonable argument for joining. Getting carried away by one's own enthusiasm does not necessarily mean a sane and logical approach.

One must accept that enthusiasts are the backbone of any organisation, be it nudist or otherwise; willing to stand up and be counted, attend working bees and generally advancing their cause. Because of their enthusiasm they often get carried away looking upon the shy or conservative member of the group as one to be ignored or at the best tolerated.

Sometimes enthusiasm gets away from reality, and the enthusiast loses touch with reality and the general good of the very organisation that he or she is trying to promote.

I suggest that having enthusiasm is not good enough, it must be balanced with ability and understanding. Ability in doing a job well and being able to do it well, Understanding in understanding other points of view. There are a large number of members in our clubs who are quite happy for events to take their time, but at the same time adopt a rational and gentle course they would like to see fulfilled. Should the chance arise they would be more than willing to 'do their bit,' BUT because the enthusiast dominates the scene with either too much of nothing or too much of everything - I know it all, so just leave it to me - the capable, but rational member gets overwhelmed and is reluctant to upset the status quo.

Enthusiasts tend to hold office for many years, therefore I suggest that if your club has an officer who has held a committee position for more than 10 years - drop them from the committee; get some new blood in; look for ability as well as enthusiasm, one who tends to take a logical approach to problems.

Just because so and so is available, and is capable of saying what he or she wants to say does not make that person an able one. Saying and doing too much more often than not causes more problems than it solves.

Use the enthusiast by all means, most of them have a wealth of knowledge of the movement, but be wary such knowledge is not necessarily good for us at all.

Les.

The inaugural meeting called to discuss the building of a swimming pool for the SANC was chaired by the President Graeme Brown. At this meeting an offer to construct - for cost - a small permanent concrete pool was discussed along with ways and means of financing construction. This original plan fell through because insufficient facts were available. Several further meetings were held at which more and more questions were asked but not always answered. Eventually this pool plan was accepted. But ironically, by then the offer of the low cost pool was withdrawn by the parties concerned.

At about this time, another member suggested a fibreglass pool but substantially larger. Commercially, this proposed pool, at the time would have cost approximately $10,000. A substantial amount, well outside the Club's limited budget. However, thanks to Club members co-operation, the costs were drastically reduced by 50% to a more realistic figure. With this proposal a further meeting was held and the construction approved subject to finance being available. Substantial donations by Club members and a loan from the Perc Cousins Trust fund saw the financial side taken care of. Construction eventually started around Easter 1978 after a setback due to weather problems - it had been originally planned for construction to start around October 1977 to have the pool ready for use by Christmas the same year! - It was finally completed at the end of June 1978.

All that remained at this stage was the plumbing and South Auckland Nudist Club would have its own 44 by 22 foot swimming pool. Then unfortunately came the weekend of Telethon 1978 and with it, rain on an unprecedented scale. Although finished, no backfilling had been done and no water was in the new pool. The combination of no water in the pool and severe flooding of the grounds saw the pool pop right out of its carefully dug hole. The first members on the scene were horrified by the sight of their new pool floating gaily on top of the hole it was supposed to be sitting in. At the same time, about 15 inches of water flowed through the Clubhouse. When the flooding had subsided, a severely distorted pool sat back into its hole.

Unfortunately, severe damage had been done to the pool and the concrete base it sat on. In order to repair the pool and concrete base, the fibreglass bottom was cut out of it. Weeks of hard labour eventually had the concrete pad and pool sides repaired. The new bottom was fibre-glassed in, at no additional cost to the Club, and the pool backfilled on the outside as the incoming water (planned this time) flowed in.

Concrete paving stones were carefully placed round the pool and a concrete lip placed over the edge of the pool to prevent dirty water flowing back into it. Conventional paving stones were considered too costly and not altogether suitable for this, so Club members - acting on expert advice - manufactured moulds and made their own blocks for the job.

Finally the job was completed including all the plumbing, filtration and usual "extras." The hard work involved finally came to fruition on 16th December 1980 when Club President Beryl Tyson stood alongside Ex Mayor of Auckland Sir Dove-Meyer Robinson while he performed the opening ceremony. Franklin County Council Representative Geoff Morrell was the first official pool user, and although wearing togs, proclaimed the pool a tremendous asset to the Club.

When asked for her thoughts on the new pool, President Beryl said "after all the disappointments and setbacks in building and constructing the pool, it's nice to see the job completed. It would never have been done without the help of Club members. The pool has already attracted many new members."

LETTERS
TO THE
EDITOR:

Dear Friends,

Jeannie and I can't believe it has been four months since our Kiwi holiday, we still talk and think about it as if it were just last week. We cannot decide yet which island or which places were our favourites, it was all so wonderful and so perfect. All of our visits to the clubs were so very enjoyable, mainly because of the warmth and genuine friendship that we felt. We were also impressed by the fact that your clubs are so wholesome and seem to personify the true and original concepts of naturism, with everybody working to build real co-operative clubs so that all the members can work and play together as friends and as naturists. We can't tell you how much we enjoyed every day we spent with all of you.

I am sure you have been told many times what a beautiful and scenic country you live in, but we would say it again - you live in a paradise! Part of our pleasure in visiting New Zealand was in seeing and sensing the strong feelings of pride which you hold for your country, what a refreshing attitude in the world of today. There are other parts of the world that are also beautiful, but they don't have the unhurried, warm and friendly way about them that we found everywhere in New Zealand. A spectacular country with a kind and loving people who truly care about their quality of life and about each other, what a combination!

We are enjoying our third straight summer. Central Oregon is having it's usual weather with nice sunny days, cool nights, blue sky and a cooling breeze making music in the pine trees. The Mt St Helens eruption is to the north of us about one hundred miles and, thanks to the prevailing winds, we have not been in danger so far and have not even had any ash fallout problems here at the Ranch. We count our blessings for living in such a beautiful place and for having the time to go to other beautiful and exciting places. What wonderful times we live in! What wonderful friends we have made! We are thinking of Florida for this coming winter and then for next winter packing our Tikis and heading for New Zealand again; once the Kiwi bug has bitten, you are hooked.

Hope to see you again soon. Thanks again for our visits with all of you.

Bill and Jeannie Edwards

Dear Editor,

Film critics had a 'field day' in recent months when cinemas screened the controversial film "The Blue Lagoon." One reviewer described it as "kiddie-porn" which is self-explanatory. I was urged to go along and see the apparently obscene show, but my final impressions were not in agreement with those of the critics.

The nude scenes were almost wholly confined to the swimming antics of the two adolescents played by Brooke Shields and Chris Atkins. But, there were no intimate shots of genitals, breasts, or whatever goes to make a licentious portrayal; instead, there were vague shapes to be seen silhouetted against the sea and sky although the identities of male and female were not left in doubt. There was more than a hint, however, of sexual activity when the two youngsters came to realise their physical affinity for each other and flesh became joined to flesh - it was normal, hormonal up-welling in the blood of two lovers.

I cannot agree with the general cant of the critics that it was "porn." It was more of a juvenile confrontation with Nature and the consequent path of physical liaison and amorous play was expected. Platonic love would surely have been as out of place as a scuba-diver would have been swimming over the reef. To coin a phrase it was "all good, clean fun" and a sexual frolic of this ilk is both welcome and pleasantly adventurous. Let's have more screenings in the same view.

- Derek Tollan

Dear Editor,

As a nudist I am interested in keeping fit and eating healthy food. All around me I see other nudists who don't care how they look and what they eat. In the early days of nudists clubs in Europe our nudist forefathers were very health conscious but as the years progress the idea of eating wholesome food has just about died out. A saying from a health nutritionist, "What you eat today, walks and talks tomorrow," is very true. We nudists should look after our bodies on the inside as well as on the outside.

After being health conscious for the last six years, and I believe in nudism as part of total health, I cringe at the highly sugared, highly seasoned and highly coloured morsels which are offered up to our children as food.

I would like to hear if any "NZ naturist" readers think similarly as I do.

John Carpenter,
Brisbane, Australia.

WAIRARAPA'S OWN
"RISING DAMP"

Doug Cousins

Nudist clubs are renowned for their variety of attractions, scenery and splendid hospitality.

After the last TWO Rallies at Fiveacres and other wet Rallies, clubs know how to copy Colerige's "Water, water everywhere and all the boards did shrink." But can you beat Wairarapa's own great flood that even outdid all the water at Fiveacres. Here's what happened.

It was the provincial Anniversary weekend in mid January 1980. A party of Wellington members went "over the hill" on Friday to spend what they hoped would be a sunny weekend lazing after their labours at the Rally. The weather was fine then. Saturday was overcast with intermittent drizzle. Around teatime there were two heavier falls of rain. All that afternoon the party, with Wairarapa members, roasted a whole sheep and some chickens on a spit in front of a roaring fire for six hours. Lovely dinner for possibly 70 or so members.

Everyone turned in that evening hoping the sun would come out on the following day and the river would start to fall. It was around 2 feet above normal Friday night. A member arriving from work about midnight noticed nothing unusual about the Club grounds. It should be remarked that to get to the Club grounds you have to drive for about a kilometre over a rough "road" across nearly flat paddocks.

When the early risers looked out of their tents and caravans Sunday morning in light rain, all hell broke loose - "FLOODING!!!" Water had already covered half the grounds, including all the games courts. It was lapping around one tent. Over the rise towards the river proper, they could see a torrent pouring down over the track leading to the toilet. There was a terrific scramble as everyone packed their gear, took down and stowed away their tents and awning, made fast well above ground level everything moveable. Some cars were roped to large willow trees ready for the worst.

As the waters continued to rise plans were made to have our breakfast in the caravans and ride out the flood, this was abandoned in an immediate effort to walk out to the road. The police had already been advised, so everyone knew that help was coming (a local member, realising the dangerous situation the party was in, had managed to get through the flood earlier to summon help). The walkers, going straight down the club "road" had water up to their knees - dirty muddy water flowing strongly. But nobody went more than half way down the road for two reasons. The lowest lying part of the "road" would have been under 3 feet of water, and the wanderers were met by the Police coming in with the news that a big tractor was on the way.

This soon arrived and everyone clambered aboard the enclosed silage trailer it was towing, only to be taken back to the campsite for the rest of the party. The Tractor carried on back to the farm where the party, 43 in all from a babe in arms to grandparents, were transferred to a truck, and so to the Salvation Army Hostel for some breakfast. The local members threw their homes open to the Wellington members for the rest of the da and that night, some travelling from the hostel in the Black Maria. Their hospitality was very much appreciated. Of course, the sun came out and although windy it was a pleasant afternoon.

Monday saw the parties returning to the club, the weather was fine but soon turned overcast and stayed that way for the rest of the day. It was easy to walk down the "road" which was drying out quickly. There were muddy patches, and the river height back to near its Friday level, but not quite low enough to prevent the fast stream blocking access to the toilet.

Some cars had water marks up to a third the way up the tyres. Silt patches were here and there, very sticky and slippery, and the constant passage of cars and caravans soon churned up muddy ruts across the club grounds. In between drying out gear and tents, members prepared lunch. They even found plenty of dry firewood for the fire - for cooking that essential hot water. Lunch was barbecuing, plus rabbit stew - thanks to one member who had gone out when it was fine on Friday night and caught two rabbits.

NEW ZEALAND CLUB DIRECTORY

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

new zealand

naturist

incorporating australian nudist news

No.96 March 1981

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

Typesetting and Artwork by:

Ad Service, P.O. Box 22271, Otahuhu

Printed by:

Howick Press Ltd.

P.O. Box 38065.

Howick.

Distributed by:

Gordon and Gotch (NZ) Ltd

(Top)

AUSTRALIAN CLUB DIRECTORY

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.

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

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

PHOTO CREDITS

Fritz Prenzel

   Front and Back Cover

Murray Edmonds

   Centre Spread Page 4

Doug Cousins

   Inside Front and Back Covers -

   Pages 2, 5, 7, 12, 15, 16, 17, 19

STATE ASSOCIATIONS:

Nudist Association of Victoria,*

P.O. Box 44

Balaclava Vic. 3183

Nudist Association of Queensland,*

P.O. Box 101.

Woodridge QId 4114.

DEADLINES FOR COPY

97 June 1981 - 15th April

98 September 1981 - 15th July

99 December 1981 - 1st October

100 March 1982 - 30th January

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