# 120 - March 1987 

DURING THE HOLIDAYS we have been catching up on our reading. Four issues of the American monthly nudist newspaper "Bare in Mind" a copy of the 80-page "Clothed with the Sun" (the quarterly journal, also American, of "The Naturists Inc".) two issues of "British Naturism" three copies of the Australian "Sun and Health" magazine, and sundry pamphlets from the I.N.F., A.N.F., I.N.I.C. and others. (We have a reciprocal agreement; they all receive copies of the N.Z. Naturist.)

We emerged from this reading mini- marathon with mixed feelings; a sense of dismay at the never-ending problems encountered by naturists elsewhere in the world and a distinct elation over the indisputable fact that virtually none of them exist here.

America appears to be the most grievously troubled. In every issue of "Bare in Mind' several pages are devoted to reprints of press reports, from virtually every State of the nation, of the latest batch of official harassments of nudists, of arrests, prosecutions and convictions. And "Clothed with the Sun" in its feature "U.S. Updates" devotes fourteen pages to a survey, State by State, of the latest legal position regarding nudism and the law.

Britain has troubles of a different kind. "British Naturism" gives a detailed report on the activities of a breakaway group, who are trying to whip up interest in the formation of a separate association of naturist clubs, in addition (or opposition?) to the CCBN.

Our friends across the Tasman have their problems too. We learn from the "ANF Bulletin News" that in 1983 the Victorian Government legislated to introduce Optional Dress Beaches, but that in the ensuing three years only four such beaches have been declared, while more than one hundred people have been prosecuted for "offensive behaviour" on numerous other beaches throughout the State.

By comparison with all this, the life of a nudist in New Zealand appears almost idyllic.

Admittedly, all the hassle overseas arises through the efforts of dedicated nudists to persuade the Establishment to acknowledge public nudity on selected beaches and in specified parks, nature reserves and the like; there is no interference with the activities of bona-fide clubs. But in New Zealand there is in fact only one beach officially declared legal for naturist activities where immunity from prosecution is guaranteed, all the while our coastline is dotted with many other beaches where nudity is officially prohibited but where it is continually practised and officially "winked at".

If the Establishment in this country is tolerant of naturist activities, so too are the neighbours. Press reports of harassment may be a rarity but accounts of protests by self-righteous citizens are rarer still.

One is tempted to attribute this to our geographical isolation, which has allowed us to develop as a nation of tolerant people unaffected by the influence of close neighbours. But this has not been the story elsewhere, as the case of Hawaii illustrates.

The Hawaiian islands are even more isolated than we are. They are, however, one of the United States of America, and the long arm of the U.S. establishment reaches them with ease. For many years a very satisfactory unspoken agreement existed between the authorities and naturists. Frowned upon on the beaches of the main island of Hawaii itself, nudity was tacitly ignored on the island of Maui and in particular on Little Makena Beach, isolated, difficult of access and virtually unknown to the tourist.

But now the ubiquitous textile tourist has "discovered" Maui and the land developers have moved in. This has resulted in the appearance of "No Nudity" signs followed by a raid by about a dozen policemen and policewomen backed up by a couple of helicopters. Thirty people were arrested, photographed and fingerprinted and told that details of their "criminal" record would go on F.B.I. files.

If the idea of this sort of thing happening in New Zealand is too laughable for words, we can perhaps attribute the overall tranquility of our naturist scene to the fact that we as a nation are not comprised of a number of States, with each local Government having its own views on the thorny question of nudity. Our geographical isolation (with no interference or influence brought to bear from overseas), must also contribute.

We run things our way; more naturist clubs per head of population than any other country in the world; one national controlling body, the NZNF; and our own magazine which enjoys a world-wide distribution and keeps naturists everywhere informed of our activities.

Whenever things get a little heated at our Club's Committee meetings, and tempers start to run high, it might pay us to stop for a moment, think of conditions elsewhere in the world and count our blessings.

Wellington Sun Club outshines them all

Photo: Rally photo team   

The organisers always seemed to have everyone where they were wanted and on time - and still keep the alternative activities running smoothly.

The weather was magnificent. Apart from half a day of rain and storm, the sun shone brilliantly throughout - something that Wellington members will not let the rest of the country forget for a long, long time! Even Aucklanders were heard to complain of the heat. On the last day many people were looking for shade or keeping themselves covered.

Any sea-going vessel has to beware of pirates, and "S.S. Fiveacres" was no exception. The Canterbury Sun Club had outfitted themselves as pirates, complete with parrots, and on the first day tried (and nearly succeeded) in commandeering the ship. They acquitted themselves well in more legitimate pursuits, winning the "Top Tan" - S.S. Fiveacres version of Top Town. (There are decided advantages in nudism when it comes to a blindfold jelly-feeding contest). Thank you, Canterbury, for the extra zing you brought to the Rally. Your costumes were magnificent.

Each evening there was a separate programme. The first night there was a "shipwreck campfire singsong" in the clubhouse, with music from the Upper Hutt Folk Club (hence the songbooks) complete with an artificial log fire" in the hall.

The idea of adopting a nautical theme for the 35th Annual Rally of the New Zealand Nudist Federation was an inspiration on the part of the host club, the Wellington Sun Club, which was little short of genius.

Their club grounds, Fiveacres, became "S.S. (Sunship) Fiveacres". Various parts of it were re-named - the promenade deck, the sports deck, the bilge (the bar) and so on. On embarkation, everyone received a "survival package" - a packet of Lifesavers, a small box of Panadeine for "sea sickness" (amazing, the number of people who awoke every morning suffering from this malady!) a cake of Lifebuoy soap, a map of Wellington and even a comprehensive programme including all the tickets needed for the many events and a songbook!

Many of the 240 adult and 100 junior passengers aboard had attended previous Rallies, but the overwhelming consensus of opinion was that this time the capital city club had set a new standard that will be very hard to surpass in the future. Two important innovations are worthy of mention.

The first concerned the first day. By custom, this was devoted to the NZNF A.G.M. and those not wishing to attend have in the past been left to their own devices. Not so this time: a full programme had been arranged for them quite apart from the business proceedings.

This was also the first time that any sort of really comprehensive and separate programme has ever been arranged for the youngsters. It catered to them from first thing in the morning to a video before bed at night. There was even a marquee full of toys and games set aside for the very young children. Numerous parents, relaxing in the sun, were heard to express gratitude at the fact that the only time they saw their children was at breakfast and dinner!

"A relaxed and joyous atmosphere ... from the first day to the last ..."

No Rally would be complete without a full programme of sports, and here the organisers managed another miracle. Trophies were presented for ten different disciplines ranging from swimming to chess, but at the same time, running concurrently, there were always other organised activities for those not competitively inclined. The sports can so easily be allowed to dominate proceedings and become tedious - ("This is the tenth and last call for Joe for miniten!")

Not so here.

Photo: Rally photo team   

On another evening, a jazz band played on the promenade deck from 1600 hrs to 1800 hrs. It is unlikely that the musicians will forget in a hurry the sight of a line of naked women dancing in front of them! That particular period of time each day was valued as the occasion of the daily trip to the "bilge". With the sun losing its heat, and sport finished for the day, it was a chance for people to gather for a friendly chat. That is civilized drinking!

One of the most hilarious evenings was when a very large party of passengers went ashore to descend upon the tenpin bowling alley in Petone. Despite (or perhaps because of) the fact that very few had ever bowled before, joy and merriment was unconfined.

If only we had been able to get the media there - to demonstrate that nudists (even though on this occasion we were all fully clothed!) are perfectly normal people who enjoy doing perfectly normal things - even if not always in perfectly normal ways!

The climax of the organised activity was, of course, New Years Eve. The theme was Hawaiian, with dinner, Hawaiian-style, being served on the main deck. Spit-roasted pig with side-salad - a succulent meal indeed. A dance-band provided the music. There was a great variety of costumes that became briefer and briefer as the night wore on and it became hotter in the hall.

"... for the first time ... a separate programme for the youngsters..."

There was a wonderful spirit there that night, which was not dampened in the least by those who went for a midnight swim and then returned to the hall to spread the moisture!

The "wake-up" call over the P.A. system was deliberately delayed the following morning (the chief announcer emphatically denies having overslept!) to allow for the passengers' ... state of mind(?) Given the amount of dancing that everyone had done the night before, it was also felt that the morning exercise class was not necessary that day ... or that was the excuse anyway.

A relaxed and joyous atmosphere pervaded the "S.S. Fiveacres" from the first day to the last - a classic example of what should always be experienced at any gathering of nudists. Thank you, Wellington, for one of the best rallies ever.

The club was formed in 1967 as the Gisborne Sun Club. The present property, which was a citrus orchard, was purchased in 1972 with the help of Ian and Jennifer Fairbrother, and became wholly owned by the club in 1974.

The first building on the land was a garage which was purchased to be the club house, and it is there to this day; but now with ranchslider doors, walls and ceiling lined, a fireplace, papered and curtained, with furniture, a pool table and carpeted, it looks nothing like the original!

A member who was a landscape gardener planned the layout for the grounds, which has been followed right through until the present day. Over the years between 1973 and 1986, many thousands of hours worked by members have gone into establishing the club grounds as the delightful naturist haven they are now.

Although only 1 acre in extent, we boast a concrete miniten court, teniquoit court, swimming pool, ablution block, kitchen, hot tub, sauna, children's playground and clubhouse. Our location is also a valuable asset, being right on the main road and only 10 minutes drive from the centre of town.

The club has set precedents in several fields. It was the first club to hold a public cabaret (the annual cabaret is now a well-known local feature) the first club outside the three main centres to host a Rally (on a member's farm) and the only one of those clubs to host a Rally twice.

In 1983 it was decided to turn the club into a limited company, the reason being the downturn in membership. It was hoped that "going commercial" would be a way of making our grounds and facilities used to a greater extent. We are still well and truly in existence and very proud of what we have to offer our members and visitors. Of course, apart from the grounds, we hope our hospitality and sunshine are a welcoming feature.

IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS quite a few New Zealand clubs will be celebrating half a century of nudist activity; we were proud to do so at the end of last year, marking the 50th anniversary of our founding in December 1936. We were able to welcome both past as well as prospective future members to the grounds which are our pride and joy, with well-kept lawns, a sparkling swimming pool and sports courts which were both put to good and extensive use during the day.

Guests took afternoon tea in the spacious club pavilion, surrounded by beautiful native bush - to many people, a nudist's paradise. I wonder what our founding members would have thought of all this?

Fifty years ago, these courageous pioneers met in one another's back gardens (those which had the necessary privacy), many fearful of discovery lest they lose their jobs or at least be labelled perverts. To meet and interview new "members" or converts to nudism, they would arrange a rendezvous at the old Auckland tram "barn" recognising one another by way of a white flower in the buttonhole.

Another meeting place was the Central Post Office, a rolled-up copy of the New Zealand Herald under the arm being the recognition signal.

MANY OF THESE PEOPLE had a lot to lose; listed among the ranks of dedicated naturists fifty years ago were a schoolmaster, a well-known singer, a director of a large company (who donated to the club the sum of ten pounds, a fortune in those days), and even a warder at Mount Eden prison.

Every naturist then was faced with bigotry to a degree that is almost unbelievable today. In 1933, "Truth" carried a banner headline: "New Zealand does not want a cult of nakedness". Subsidiary headings proclaimed: "Nudism invades Dominion" and the article went on to state, "There is definite potential for evil."

Faced with this sort of attitude from the press of the day - and people believed in those days, as indeed many still believe today, that anything they read in the papers is the absolute truth - how then did those early nudists ever find the courage to go on to form the nucleus of the Federation of clubs that we know today?

IF IT ALL HAD TO BE done again, would the members of today be equal to the task? It would be easy to say, of course they would. With 25 million Europeans taking advantage of nudist holidays, official free beaches in so many countries, and in many other countries, beaches accepted as such. Certainly, the bigots of today are not ready to say their piece, in case they are labelled narrow-minded; nobody likes to be called that.

Although the pioneering days are gone, I like to think that we still have people in the movement, who are equal to the task of taking us into the next century, with as much courage and conviction as in the days gone by.

The presentation of the Pat Trott Memorial Trophy to the Auckland Sun Club for 50 years of nudism, was a recognition of those wonderfully courageous brave people of years ago, who made it possible for you and I to enjoy nudism in freedom and peace.

I also salute them.

WELLINGTON SUN CLUB

The story of the Wellington Sun Club over the last few months is really the lead-up to the National Rally and the Rally itself. Not for many a year has the club pulled together so well in the same direction. Hundreds, if not thousands of hours went into getting the grounds and facilities into tip-top condition. It was worth it, though, to see them being used by so many people.

The Wellington Sun Club took the opportunity of the Rally to publicise the club and the nudist movement generally. We managed to get a number of press and radio reports. These, plus advertising, attracted a number of visitors. During the Rally we recruited 12 new members. We recommend this open approach to all other clubs. Once people came to the grounds and saw what nudism was about, and that any fears they had were groundless, they were hooked.

By the time you read this, summer will almost be over, but our club will not be closing for winter. The newly furnished lounge in the hall will be the venue for many a friendly gathering. June is bound to have some ideas up her sleeve for social activities during the winter months.

HAWKES BAY SUN CLUB

As I missed the December issue, there is 6 months of events to cover.

It was discovered that on the 16th of Jan 1965, the grounds became the official property of the Hawkes Bay Sun Club. We therefore extended invitations to many ex-members to celebrate with us our 21st Birthday with a Camp-in weekend on the 1st and 2nd of November. Many accepted and a very happy and sunny weekend was enjoyed by all.

On Saturday we took part in a mini golf tournament and played miniten on our new concrete court. A communal B-B-Q and Guy Fawkes at night, finishing with a Social. Next morning saw us all on the lawn trying to wake up with a champagne breakfast.

One of the nicest things was the rejoining of 10 ex-members.

The next Social item was an Open weekend / Christmas party - again with BBQ, Dance, Children's Rapere games and Father Christmas not to be forgotten. This was the last weekend in November.

December was a bit quieter, weather a bit overcast and everybody being caught in the Christmas rush. January however has given us many hot days and we had many campers visiting from other clubs.

Behind the scenes, work at the grounds is done at a steady pace and the grounds are looking good.

Next on the programme is our Ocean Beach Outing on February 1, and the MINI Rally on February 27, 28 and March 1. Many clubs received invitations to join us and we are looking forward to meeting up with old friends from other clubs again.

SOUTH AUCKLAND SUN CLUB

Nearly finished the new club room - only the walls to line. The trouble is, with all the gorgeous weather we've been having, it's been difficult to persuade even the small band of enthusiasts who have been responsible for putting the clubrooms up, to work indoors! Never mind - we've broken the back of it and some wet days will probably come all too soon.

Club activity level has been good; numerous caravans, quite a few under canvas. Where our club is located seems to be a very lucky area where weather is concerned. On a recent long weekend, the rest of Auckland had showers every day while we didn't see a drop of water. (My colleagues at work wanted to know where I had got my obvious "new" suntan from!)

Recruiting of new members has been good also. Particularly pleasing from my point of view (in my twenties) are the number of people in my age group among the newcomers. We have always advertised ourselves as "The Family Club" but if this keeps up we'll have to change it to "The Young Family Club"!

CANTERBURY SUN CLUB

It is amazing how a long spell of hot summer days boosts the morale of all Club members. Pinecones is looking lovely at this time in spite of the dry harsh days.

Our vigorous works programme during the winter months has resulted in the clubhouse floor being refurbished. The South ablution block has had the showers, floor, hand basins, drainage, ventilation and painting upgraded. The Club office has been converted to rental accommodation for visitors. The barbecue area has had a facelift and the roadways have had further works carried out on them. Numerous other jobs also have made our grounds a place of which we are proud.

The Brass Monkey Ball held earlier last year was a great success and this was followed by many social events too numerous to mention in detail. Our Open Day held on Sunday of Labour Weekend was one of the best attended ever and with a Vice Versa party on Saturday night, together with champagne breakfast Monday morning, sports, and children's activities there was happy action over the whole weekend.

In spite of our heavy loss of 30 adults plus children, (raiding party to the Rally at Wellington), our Christmas and New Year functions were a great success. Those of us who remained behind congratulate the pirates who achieved their success at Wellington, and those who attained the 15 trophies. A number of members also took the opportunity to visit the Nelson Club. Our congratulations to Wellington for a great Rally. It has been rumoured that the Wellington Club has mounted a permanent patrol in the Cook Strait area.

The Club's New Year Party, champagne brunch, wine and cheese evening, Sporting activities and impromptu functions continue to hold members together in the bond of nudism.

Our only sad item of report is that our electricity supplier has transferred us from domestic to industrial charge rates resulting in a 231% increase in charges.

Prompt action by the committee and the acceptance of all recommendations given to a special Club meeting have increased power charges to all members. It appears that the only free item left to cheer us is the sun. How fortunate we are, to be able to take full advantage of it.

The Pineglades Pirates, twenty eight in all, returned to base with parrots puffed up with pride. We did not quite take over the North Island but I'm sure our presence will be long remembered among rally goers. The pirates won cups in every contest upon the field of battle except one. (Well you wouldn't expect pirates to play chess!) As pirates go they were remarkably well behaved, even the women. No unsheathed swords or a stray shot or ball! Hardly a curse passed their lips, but they made up for it making plenty of noise with symbol and drums in support of comrades in arms.

The Fiveacres team turned on the sunshine and the organisation for what epitomised nudism in New Zealand. Each Rally seems better than the last, or does the memory fade? Friendships were further cemented and new ones made.

In every Rally some event or person emerges to put their stamp upon this five day nudist holiday. In this case, for me, it was Jim the announcer.

All the more unusual because Jim was new to social nudity, yet from the opening brought freshness and enthusiasm to the Rally scene.

During the Rally a full length video was recorded, which will make not only a splendid record of events but also promote clubs throughout New Zealand.

In the past we have been rather apologetic in our explanations of our way of life. It is now time to get out and sell the idea more vigorously. It may be "healthy" it may be relaxing, but it is also a lot of fun, giving an opportunity as it does for families and friends to partake in many activities, converse and inter-relate in a way no other activity can match.

The Rally demonstrated that very well indeed.

GISBORNE COUNTRY CLUB

We started our summer with a Barn Dance / Disco at Labour Weekend which was very enjoyable and saw a lot of our members camping out over the weekend. The big disappointment was the lack of visitors from other clubs for one reason or another. The weekend started out damp but fined up on late Saturday and remained that way for the rest of the weekend.

November started off with a bang (literally) when we had a barbecue, an excellent impromptu topdressing exhibition by one of our members and a fireworks display for the children. Our Christmas party was held early December and was enjoyed by all except poor Father Xmas who nearly suffocated in his suit (unfortunately he had to wear the red and white one to be more realistic).

Our new sauna has been used with a bit of trial and error and will be ready for full use when the colder weather hits us (not that it ever gets very cold here). At present we are using our natural outdoor sauna (28° to 33°C), and for those who haven't visited our club or city I am referring to the hot, sunny, summer days we have here.

We have enjoyed the company of a few visitors on their way back from the Rally. It is really great to be able to sit around exchanging points of view and ideas from other clubs. Talking of the Rally what a great success that was. Contrary to what people may think about Wellington's weather we enjoyed brilliant sunshine and that along with good organisation, friendly atmosphere and great company one couldn't help but enjoy themselves.

AUCKLAND SUN CLUB INC.

1986 was a good year for Auckland Sun Club. Perhaps the fact it was or fiftieth birthday brought us luck. Over the winter months very keen members were seen every weekend, lining the ceiling of our big club house. Other members started panelling the walls with heart Rimu. Although only halfway, the panelling looks beautiful, enhanced by the hand carved clock, fashioned in the shape of the ASC logo. This clock was kindly donated and made by one of our hard working committee members.

Socially the calendar has been very busy for ASC. After our successful midwinter Christmas dinner, a pot luck dinner and games evening was held in August. Labour Weekend saw a group of members going to Ararua to camp on a member's farm. Although the weather wasn't the greatest, all enjoyed the weekend. Open days in November kept everyone busy making sure the grounds were presentable. Then the great day arrived! Past and present members enjoyed the fiftieth celebrations. Another talented ASC member made a beautiful cake which was cut by the oldest members. A barbecue rounded off a most enjoyable day.

The next social get together was the highlight of the year for the children. Santa's gifts and lollies made their day, while adults enjoyed the evening barbecue and party. Over Christmas fourteen of our members attended the Rally, returning with glowing reports of Wellington's hospitality, a cup for draughts, and the treasured Pat Trott Memorial Trophy. Many visitors dropped into the club over summer, impressing some enough to become members.

Now we have 1987 to look forward to. The sports days of the Clubs including our own are next on the agenda. Another camping weekend is planned at Ararua on Waitangi Weekend. During March we are intending to visit Kowhai Valley Club to meet our fellow nudists. With our hard working committee and supportive members, ASC is looking forward to an equally successful year in 1987.

NORTH SHORE SUN CLUB

Greetings from the friendly folk at sunny Orewa. Our club grounds have been well patronised over the summer holiday period thanks to the choice weather. Kids and adults alike have made the most of the club pool.

We took a walk one night down into our bush to take a look at the resident glow worms. They have spread over more bush and I think they could quite easily go into competition with their relatives down country.

Several new members have joined us this summer. Let's hope the finer weather stays with us for a little longer.

New Years Eve was celebrated with a spit roast. It was a great success, the sheep were cooked to perfection - absolutely delicious! Amazingly there was enough left over for a barbecue the next day. We have several functions planned over the coming winter. Our swim nights are starting again, the first being the last Friday night in February.

ROTOTA SUN CLUB

Just home from the Rally as I write this. (Thanks for the good time, Wellington!)

We again had a very successful weekend at the Mystery Creek Sports and Recreation field days with W.O.S. and B.O.P. The enquiries we got made it very worth while.

The open day (let's call it visitor's day) was popular this year, with a number joining. I started weeding a garden and was soon joined by the prospective members - we'll keep them on!

Santa didn't arrive for the Christmas party (a blowout in the front right reindeer, so I'm told) but his bag of goods arrived - to smiles all round.

Christmas holiday visitors have kept Bill and Caryle busy at the grounds - nice to see everybody (including a Canterbury pirate who, I think, was lost.) I called in on my way home from the Rally to find some Aucklanders cooking potatoes in the hot stream. Nice, they were, too! Good to see friends from the Rally there, and also on Papamoa free beach two days later.

Note to all Clubs. Rotota received $250 from the Sport and Recreation Grants through the Rotorua County Council towards the new volleyball court. Try your Council!

February 7 sees the ROTOBOP challenge again after 4 years of buildup! Bay of Plenty are visiting to play volleyball for the shield. (All over by the time you read this. I wonder who won?)

Don't forget INF passports (with certified photo) when visiting Rotota - you are always welcome.

PALMERSTON NORTH
SUN CLUB INC.

Like walking on cornflakes - that's our Grounds, as we progress through Manawatu's most severe drought in decades. A total fire ban is in vogue and we are unable to use our new barbecue. Our water supply is more than adequate but it is impossible to irrigate eighteen acres of land and 150 trees and shrubs have succumbed.

Our work programme was completed by November and we now have refurbished and redecorated ablution blocks and telephone box. Our Youth Hut had reached a non-repairable point and the demolition team moved in and levelled it in a morning. The power to the hut was converted into visitors campsites which gives us five powered sites for visitors and brings the total to fifty.

Successful Xmas and New Years functions were enjoyed by Members and friends and several sporting days have been well attended. Mini-tennis is being played by many of our newer members and we've had people queued up for the court. Sixteen members attended the National Rally at Wellington where we had some success at the sports and enjoyed the social activities. We formed the Bucaneers (much to the discomfit of the Canterbury Pirates). Several rallyers stayed at P.N.S.C. when returning from Wellington and recent months have seen a stream of visitors from other Clubs.

Our thoughts and energies are being directed to new Clubhouse plans and we hope not too many years pass before these reach fruition.

CHRISTMAS BEHAVIOUR

Peace, friendship and Goodwill was very evident during part of the traditional 12 days of Christmas at the Rally.

By all accounts visitors enjoyed themselves and were pleased with the atmosphere which was created.

Unfortunately there have to be exceptions to the rule. One visual incidence of drunkenness and two successful souvenir hunters.

Would the visitors who "temporarily" removed the two volley balls, the parrot and the Jolly Roger from the hall, please return them to P.O. Box 2854 Wellington.

The volley balls cost over $100 each and the parrot and Jolly Roger were a personal "thank you" present to the club from the Canterbury Pirates. The positioning of the present, high up in the roof area, was our first attempt to personalise our clubhouse.

Roy Cox

(Wellington Rally Organiser)

ADOLESCENT NUDITY

"Sun Seeker" of Nelson (Issue No. 118) suggests sun clubs could adopt rules making nudity mandatory. I hope any such rules will apply only to adults.

As a reader recently argued in "The Australian Sun and Health" children should be exempt from nudity rules. First, because kids have no democratic voice in formulating club policies. Second, because many children have little choice as to which club or beach their family will attend. And especially because emotional growth requires personal autonomy and decision-making.

Some nudist kids dress and strip several times on a sunny day, for little or no apparent reason. To "nag" them about nudity, or even to question their degree of undress, would cause self-consciousness. To impose nudism by force may provoke rebellion. (For many years I was unable to appreciate mushrooms because, as a child, I had been forced to eat a bowl of mushroom soup.)

So let the children remain free and secure in their clothing optionality.

"Tahanga"

(GPO Box 1197, Sydney 2001 Australia)

I'd like to refer to R.L. Grant's letter in your last issue (No. 119.) I agree with him as far as no clothing allowed whilst swimming, but at the same time would not like to see the dress optional policy abolished. Amongst our future naturists are a large number of teenagers. Adolescence is a very confusing time for them as far as coming to terms with physical and emotional changes.

Surely there can be some flexibility as far as they're concerned. Demands of such a nature can only be harmful at their age, especially as teenagers are naturally rebellious and they do grow out of it with a bit of time and patience. I very much doubt, R.L. Grant, that you joined as a teen, so let's all give them some breathing space.

L. Sampson

(Gisborne Country Club)

(The above are extracts from two letters received, and we apologise to the writers for abridging them owing to consideration of space. Their observations on youthful reaction to "public" nudity are very pertinent and make a lot of sense. All naturist parents would profit from pondering over them - Editor.)

THE LAST WORD

I write in response to the "Talking Point" on pornography in issue No. 118 of The N.Z. Naturist.

I recognise your claim, "The Editor has heard all the arguments..." etc, but the writer also quotes magazine sales as, "Hard Fact No. 2 which cannot be ignored." I question that statement in particular!

Take another look at other magazines which cater for the Nudist/Naturist market. Two are of significance on the Australian market; H & E (Health and Efficiency) and A. S. & H. (Australian Sun and Health). Two very different magazines!

A. S. & H. is very professionally produced and sells well. I cannot quote specific sales figures, but I do know from observation that in many newsagents in Australia, this magazine sells out in about the first week after reaching the newsagents. The magazine presents a good "family image," and has obviously no shortage of genuine Club or Free Beach photos, and apart from the first few issues does not appear to have used any professional models. I have never seen between its covers a photograph which I would describe as "obscene" or "suggestive". The magazine appears to have no problems with sales!

The other magazine, H & E, obviously also sells (but I doubt it sells as fast) and is a distinct contrast in emphasis. Just checking through the classified ads is enough to illustrate the different emphasis of H & E: "...a unique London Club and rendezvous exclusively for liberated couples..."

I cannot equate such advertisements with the "Family Image" which I understand Nudist Clubs, and especially National Federations, are supposed to encourage.

My reservations about this aspect of H & E are particularly significant in light of the article on page 16 of issue No. 118 and Neil Wrigley's suggestion of holding H & E up as an example to follow. My personal but very strong belief is that you would be far better advised to follow the example of A. S. & H. even though you may see them as arch-rivals in marketing competition(?)

Of course Australia has Clubs and individuals like those quoted in the ads from H & E magazine, but such ads do not appear in A. S. & H. and I do not believe they would be supported by or affiliated with the ANF (certainly they do not appear in the Club Directory!) Remember too that A. S. & H. is an independent magazine, NOT the official journal of ANF, and H & E is also an independent production. The Central Council for British Naturism has its own magazine. The N.Z. Naturist on the other hand is the official journal of the NZNF and therefore should reflect the views of club members and committees. Their reputation is your responsibility!

Regarding magazine sales: Have you considered broadening the scope of your articles? Other magazines which cater for health and natural living are thriving well, judging by the size, quality of production and price. You could glean some appropriate articles from them, even if you re-wrote the basic information so as to avoid copyright problems. What about some articles on skin cancer, its causes and cures; how to acquire your first all-over tan safely; healthy diet; natural medicines, the pros and cons etc. Or how about some articles on Naturism in other countries?

You claim a serious lack of adequate photographs of non-professional subjects. There is at present available in Australia a hardcover book of almost 200 pages of excellent photography of Australian beach scenes.

The introduction states that the photographer's brief was, "To capture the essence of a lifestyle which is unique to the Island Continent without resorting to professional models and wherever possible to avoid using the sort of contrived shots that are the staple of the glamour world."

Different readers may have different ideas as to how well the photographer achieved this, but photographs include "textile", "topless" and "nudist" beaches. Although some of the shots may not have been chosen for a nudist/naturist magazine, the point to note is that there are people out there who do not mind having their photo taken and "spread abroad". The book is produced by an English firm and printed in Spain. It sells for $A30!

The N.Z. Naturist, as the official journal of the NZNF, must decide the image you wish to present to the general public (or are you too preoccupied with sales figures to consider that?) If you present the image that nudists are all "swingers" you will have to live with the consequences. But on the other hand, if you continue to present nudism with a respectable family image, even if you have to resort to a few "textile" or "topless" photos occasionally to fill in, and broaden your scope to include "healthy living" then I believe that the N.Z. Naturist and NZNF will prosper.

R. Young

(R.L. A114, Ballard

Vic 3352, Australia)

(We have published this lengthy letter in full as it is a good communication with which to end the current discussion on content of the N.Z. Naturist. The writer has obviously given much thought to the matter before putting pen to paper. Perhaps unintentionally, he has highlighted the difficulties involved in producing a naturist magazine to suit all tastes.

Comparison with other similar publications is impossible. Despite the writer's suggestion that we are "... too preoccupied with sales figures..." the fact remains, that sales are of vital importance for a magazine to survive.

A substantial part of the total production costs are incurred before a single copy is printed. This basic expenditure has to be met whether we sell a hundred copies or a million. Obviously, "home" sales - in the country of origin of the magazine - are of primary importance; overseas sales are the icing on the cake.

Health and Efficiency is produced and distributed in a country of 55 million people. The Australian Sun and Health caters for 15 million. New Zealand's population is just over 3 million.

By rights it should be impossible for a country with such a small population to be able to support a professionally-produced magazine devoted to naturism. That is has done so for over thirty years has been due to the loyal support of our New Zealand readership.

Our primary editorial policy will remain, as it always has been, to give New Zealand readers what they want to see.

This correspondence is now closed - Editor)

There is no "Talking Point" contribution from "Gemini" in this issue, but we hope that another controversial article by our popular columnist will appear in the June issue.

As a follow-up to the article published in Issue 119, here is some information for all sun lovers, both male and female, on the care of everyone's crowning glory - the hair.

Hair is a protein called Keratin which is actually a dead cell structure closely akin to our finger- and toe-nails. The hair shaft structure is scale-like with each successive scale overlapping the other as progress is made towards the end of the shaft. At the base of the shaft is the root which, in turn, is based in the follicle.

The follicle expands at its lower end into a bulb-shaped area. It is this very important area that permits the flow of nourishment to the hair from the blood vessels.

Each individual hair contains a sebaceous gland which secretes a fatty substance called sebum over the hair's surface - an amazing chemical substance composed of fatty acids, oils, hydrocarbons and steroids; its purpose is to soften the hair shaft thereby keeping it supple.

The average human head contains about 15,000 hairs which all vary in thickness according to the individual. Hair grows at the rate of between .04mm to 1mm per day. It is important that a good diet is followed, bearing in mind that the hair is composed of insoluble protein, viz, keratin.

What gives hair its colour? The cortex of the hair contains the pigmentation which is created by the mineral content.

For example, brown hair contains carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen and phosphorous plus sulphur and water whilst red hair has a much greater percentage of iron than does any other colour hair.

In all hair there is approximately 44.3% carbon.

Hair can become grey as a result of copper deficient diets in addition to old age, where colour loss is due to a lack of enzyme activity as the body's processes slow down with age.

Hair diseases are usually attributable to poor diet or illness and hair growth may be accelerated or retarded by the use of steroid treatment. Hormone release by the body can have a profound effect on hair growth in both male and female.

Dandruff is perhaps the most common of problems and is attributable to skin irritation, which may be caused by the use of strong alkaline solutions on the hair such as soap, wash-up liquid and a number of the so-called "budget" shampoos, which are little better than car washes!

Hair itself may be visually improved by using the correct type of shampoo for your requirements. Despite advertisements which claim that certain shampoos are "selective" on the same head of hair, one may question the veracity of this statement.

All such advertising should be treated as what it is ... for fun!

The use of a good, preferably neutral shampoo is your best safeguard, and to this end here are a few points to note when making your choice:

1. Shampoo should spread easily through the hair.

2. The shampoo should lather freely.

3. The bubbles should be easily rinsed from the hair.

4. The shampoo should not sting the eyes.

5. The hair should be easy to comb through while still wet.

6. The shampoo should cause the hair to shine when dry.

7. The hair should show "body" and bounce when dried - preferably without heat.

"... the so-called "budget" shampoos ... are little better than car washes."

Next time, we will tell you what shampoos are made of and why, along with reasons for the choice of the ingredients. We shall also discuss the use of certain plant extracts which may assist in the care of both skin and hair.

Should any naturists wish to know more about either skin or hair, write to us enclosing a s.a.e. for a reply: WOL de novo Ltd - see advertisement in this issue.

NEW ZEALAND CLUB DIRECTORY

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

new zealand

naturist

No. 120 March 1987

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.

Managing Editor:

Graeme Brown

Editor:

Ivan de la Chaumette

Business Manager:

Frank Murphy

Distribution Manager:

Sue Hurley

Typesetting and Artwork by:

Ad Service, P.O. Box 22271, Otahuhu

Printed by:

Howick Press Ltd. P.O. Box 38-065, Howick.

Distributed by:

Gordon and Gotch (NZ) Ltd

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.

(Top)

AUSTRALIAN NUDIST CLUB DIRECTORY

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 957. AUCKLAND.
NEW ZEALAND

President: Allan Henderson
New Plymouth 67-911

Promotions Officer: Sue Hurley,
Auckland 298-8349

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

PHOTO CREDITS

Rally photo team

   I.F.C. P.2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 19

Leif Heilberg John Selkirk

   P.1.     I.B.C.P.17

Doug Ball

   P1, 5.

STATE ASSOCIATIONS:

Nudist Association of Victoria,*

P.O. Box 313,
Reservoir 3073

Nudist Association
of Queensland,*

P.O. Box 442,
Woodridge Qld 4114.

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

DEADLINES FOR COPY

121 June 1987 - 20th April 1987

122 September 1987 - 15th July 1987

123 December 1987 - 1st October 1987

124 March 1988 - 30th January 1988