# 168 - March 1999 

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Editorial - Towards 2000

Sunny Perth W.A.

Studland Naturist Beach

Katikati Naturist Park

Aoraki Naturally

Photo: Brian Williams

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Samurai Beach Carnival

Photo: Tony Hodskiss

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Tintagel Resort

Club News -

Letters to the Editor

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Naturally Manawatu

Photo: Les Olsen

During 1998, it could be said that naturism developed a public awareness not previously evident to many New Zealanders.

The opportunities provided for publicity were readily accepted and credit is due to those Federation Officers, Club Officers and Members who were willing to be identified as belonging to a naturist club.

There have been favourable articles in mainstream women's magazines during the year and the opportunity for the NZNF President and past Secretary to be interviewed on prime time breakfast television during the year was a major coup.

Nelson Sun Club, Alpine lakes and Aoraki Naturally have drawn magnificent features in their local press due to the enthusiasm of their respective leaders in these areas. The willingness to be identified in one's community contributes greatly to the success of a club's promotion and identity.

Public perceptions of naturist activities have developed into a wholesome and accepting attitude due to the openness and positive opinions expressed by those members interviewed.

In 1999 we again have the opportunity to be before the public, in the Television series "This is New Zealand" being prepared for TV3. Naturism will feature in one segment of the series and this will provide a remarkable forum for us to be seen as a favourable and inexpensive family pastime.

Our responses to this in depth critique of our lifestyle must be positive and assertive, projecting a wholesome attitude to nudity and expressing the benefits of being nude outdoors.

The opinions expressed will surely provide the mindset of public opinion for many years to come. So it is imperative that we willingly accept this opportunity to provide the public of New Zealand with the ideals and expectations of naturism as followed world-wide.

Clubs, Naturist Resorts and Homestays will be featured in the programme thus showing the variety of venues offered and the wide acceptance and opportunities for nude recreation that we enjoy nationwide.

Let's enter the new millennium projecting a positive and respectful attitude to nudity in our communities.

Les Olsen - Editor

Clear skies, warm sunny days, cool, crisp nights. That was the order of the day, each and every day during the ten day ANF Annual convention at the Sunseekers club in Perth, Western Australia.

More than a hundred visitors from all points of the vast continent of Australia travelled to the convention, with the biggest contingent from 'neighbouring' South Australian club Tindo, a mere 2,000 kilometres away. Some visitors from points north in Queensland travelled up to 4,500 kilometres to enjoy the western hospitality.

Sunseekers cancelled an earlier convention in the early 1990's when it looked that few people were interested in attending due to the tyranny of distance. However, thanks to a comprehensive promotion campaign by Sunseekers Convention Committee members, that began more than 18 months prior to this Convention, a much better response was anticipated this time.

As part of that campaign the Convention Committee produced a highly professional promotion video that was distributed to all ANF clubs midway through 1998. This helped to excite those considering the journey, to make the dream a reality.

The world's most isolated city, Perth, is truly a wonderful place. Streets are neat and clean, the air is clear, and sunshine is abundant - year round. In fact statistically, Perth averages only one or two rainy days each month through summer, so the odds were in our favour.

Photos: Les Rootsey

And the odds came home, with only one brief overnight shower, during the whole Convention.

The ANF Annual General Meeting began proceedings early on day two, with furious, heady debate, tempered by the occasional wit. Only two positions changed on the executive, with Rob Fowler replacing Max Johnston as President, and Judy Schmidt replacing Jim Howden. The first issue of "The Australian Naturist" was published just prior to the Convention, so the ANF found themselves in the enviable position of endorsing both T.A.N. and Australian Sun & Health magazines.

Once official business was completed, the sports courts soon rang to the sounds of cheers and whistles as supporters barracked for their home team in the inter-club championships.

With their superior numerical advantage it was little wonder, therefore, that Tindo South Australia, finished the Convention as Champion Club once again. However, to suggest that their win was purely based on numbers would be a disservice to their many talented sportsmen and women. Tindo won the miniten, badminton, petanque and table tennis, leaving only tennis and swimming to the host club and volleyball and darts to Aquarius from Queensland.

Aquarius will host the next Convention this coming December and bookings are now open. Powered sites are at a premium so early bookings are suggested. A big crowd is expected to attend to help ring in the new millennium (although mathematicians tell us that won't occur until New Year's Day 2001). For bookings contact 'The Convention Secretary', PO Box 3237 Loganholme, Qld, Australia 4129.

Photos: Les Rootsey

If you want to holiday in the UK and enjoy naturist pleasures, the best naturist beach to head for is at Studland. It is in Dorset in the South, one of the warmest and sunniest areas in England, also arguably the most beautiful. It is near Bournemouth, which has a unique seven mile textile beach - one of the best and most popular. Apart from busy Bournemouth, Dorset is quiet.

Near Bournemouth is the naturist facility, Bournemouth and District Outdoor Club. The owner, Craven Walker said to me: "I admire New Zealanders, attitude to naturism. Very natural." A New Zealand couple live at BDOC.

There is naturist camping and caravanning at St. Anne's Cottage, at Three Legged Cross, between Ringwood and Wimborne. I love the South Dorset area which has glorious beaches, woodlands and cliffs.

Rare orchids grow naturally at secret places along the coast and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else!

Bournemouth beach is famous for its cleanliness and golden sands. The resort has refreshing pines like those of the south of France, beautiful gardens with grey squirrels munching nuts and chines - cool paths in ravines to the beach which is crowded in summer.

To visit Studland, you need to fly to London. There are closer airports to Studland at Southampton and Bournemouth, but they do not have scheduled transworld flights. The London airports to arrive at are Gatwick or Heathrow. Both are about 100 miles drive (or 3 hours) from Dorset.

Bournemouth, England's most elegant resort, is the nearest big town to Studland, for hotels, shopping etc.

Their excellent tourist information office can arrange accommodation.

Dorset is a historic and scenic county. Thomas Hardy set his novels in Dorset. Tess of the D'Ubervilles and Far From the Madding Crowd have been made into splendid films. Some Jane Austin novels have also been filmed in Dorset.

At the naturist beach the sand is golden. It is owned by the National Trust. There is a refreshment kiosk for drinks. A caravan drawn by tractor goes up and down the beach selling ice creams whilst naturists play volleyball.

The view from the Studland naturist beach is wonderful! You see Old Harry Rocks on the right, Bournemouth and the Isle of Wight on the left, Yachts and speedboats sail eastwards into Poole Harbour.

There are wide expanses of sand and dunes you can shelter in. How marvellous the beach is! It faces east, so sheltered from the mainly westerly winds though the Trust has restricted the area recently. Not all go naturist on this beach. Behind it are woodland trails through a nature reserve with the occasional adder - Britain's only poisonous snake - and grass snake.

If you're a naturalist as well as naturist, you'll enjoy seeing ling, bracken, wood sage, bluebells, wild arum and enchanter's nightshade and dragonflies. If you're a bird watcher you may see mallards, teal, moorhens, and the little grebe.

The beach is very clean and safe - warmest in June, July and August. You'd want to enjoy a whole day on the beach. 

So bring your foodstuff, sun cream, sun hat, cool box, etc. It can get hot for England - up to 23 degrees.

The only disadvantage of Studland beach is that it is a long walk to get to it. If you are a family and have children, picnics and gear to carry, the shortest walk is from the south.

Happy naturist holidays in England!

Since opening we have acquired two caravans for hiring to guests and have a third we can access. All three vans are of a good standard and come fully equipped with all you need except bedding - which we can supply if our guests wish. Another addition to our range of accommodation is a chalet with its own bathroom and cooking facilities. This has proved quite popular with guests who do not have their own camping gear and/or want something a little more comfortable.

So two years down the track we are firmly established as part of the naturist scene in New Zealand and our continuing development programme will ensure we are at the forefront of nudist venues in New Zealand. Our style is to offer a full range of high quality facilities and services where people can come and relax without clothes. We are not a hi-di-hi type place but leave it up to our guests as to the extent to which they use the recreational facilities we provide, all of which are available at no extra cost. Equally people can just be lulled to sleep alongside the river.

As with most of the other new clubs (or old clubs in new localities) and Mapua Leisure Park we have found that after a couple of years we are an accepted part of the local community. It is our experience here and previously that the majority of the population regard naturism as a reasonable lifestyle even though they may not wish to participate themselves. It is only a small number of vociferous people who try to oppose naturist venues - and then mainly from a position of ignorance about naturism We are members of the Katikati Information Centre which has been very helpful and positive in their support. It seems to have come as a bit of a surprise to some of the local business people that when they have asked someone who is clearly a visitor to town where they are staying the person is quite happy to say that they are staying at the naturist park. Also it comes as a surprise to many, that naturists are ordinary members of the community with other interests and beliefs similar to their own.

Photo: Kevin Sampson

Now being into our third summer season we can report that the Park is going well and we are enjoying life as its proprietors. The encouragement we have received from a number of people has been very gratifying as is the number of customers we have had. Most of our customers have been New Zealanders but the number of visitors from overseas has grown as the word of our existence spreads.

Last summer we were surprised at the number of visiting naturists from the United Kingdom. Many of them were in New Zealand for quite a few weeks and obviously wished to visit as many naturist venues as possible. We steered them to the various clubs on their routes. It helps in this regard if published club contact details are up to date. Similarly we had people come and stay with us who had found out about our existence from one of the clubs. If we all work together a functional referral network can profit us all.

We are still developing our grounds and we see this continuing for some time.

While we made sure we had the core facilities in place before we opened there is always things that can be added to make our guests, stays more enjoyable. Last year we added a grass tennis court, and a large stone BBQ - the latter thanks to the work of Ewen Palmer. The camp-fire base we put in was enjoyed last summer once the fire ban was lifted and we could actually use it. There is nothing like sitting ground a warming fire in the dark and having a chat and drink. It has been used many times again this year including on New Years Eve when after we had devoured the sheep cooked on a spit people sat around the fire and chatted, used the spa and sauna, and generally whiled away the last few hours of 1998.

Another addition has been a petanque piste. Previous to now people played petanque on our grass areas which added a certain degree of luck (or frustration) to the game. And of course we are always planting more trees and shrubs to both beautify the grounds and make maintenance easier.

We are also members of Holiday Accommodation Parks of New Zealand Inc (formerly the Camp and Cabin Association) and this has been helpful in getting ideas on how others run their camping grounds and in marketing. Through this organisation we are a recognised part of the central tourist industry.

There still appears to be some uncertainty in the naturist community as to our operating philosophy. We are naturist and have the same expectations as have clubs in regard to clothes, i.e. when the weather is suitable people will go clothes free.

We do not allow clothes (togs) to be worn in the swimming pool, spa pool, or sauna. We are not clothing optional. It is possibly because we are a commercial resort that people think we must be clothing optional so that we can be commercially viable. That is not so since our experience to date is that as in many other countries it is perfectly feasible to operate a truly naturist resort. We are going to be around for many years to come.

It is also good to see a proliferation of nudist homestays in New Zealand including that of our esteemed President and her partner. Publicity about these can only help establish naturism as part of mainstream community activity. We are looking forward to the future and meeting many more good people who have found that going clothes-free is a most enjoyable way of being.

Photos: Kevin Sampson

Imagine lazing under colourful birch trees, the sun dappling its warm images on your bare body, your mind soothed by the gentle, rippling sounds of the creek close by, intermingled with the relaxed chatter of others frolicking in the crystal clear waters. You are blissfully aware that if you lifted your head for a moment, you can gaze at the Southern Alps, backbone of mainland New Zealand, a truly breathtaking majestic mountain range combining snow fed rivers, yawning ravines, soaring peaks and towering rock faces, carved over a thousand years by mighty glaciers.

This the Mackenzie region, in the centre of the South Island of New Zealand, a vast basin of golden tussock grass, with Lake Tekapo, 710 m (2,300ft) above sea level.

Tekapo's Maori name derives from Taka (sleeping mat) and Po (night). Finely ground rock in the glacial melt that feeds the lake, colours the water turquoise. This is the beginning of the giant Mackenzie Basin Hydro Electricity scheme.

Water passes through eight large power stations as it moves on its journey to the Pacific Ocean.

The central location of Lake Tekapo makes it ideal for a wide range of summer and winter activities, as this area enjoys one of New Zealand's highest average sunshine hours, and a low rainfall of 573mm (23 inches). Just 16 kms from Aoraki Naturally you will find a variety of services in the Tekapo village, including hotels and restaurants, supermarket, garage, craft and ski shops.

Numerous walkways afford breathtaking views of the Mackenzie including a challenging walk up to the Mt John Astronomical Observatory, operated by the Canterbury University, with three large telescopes for studying the heavens. The unforgettable night sky reveals why Lake Tekapo has a reputation for the clearest air in the Southern Hemisphere.

Snow covered or snow capped, the surrounding mountains and the turquoise lake make a spectacular background for the Church of the Good Shepherd built in 1935 to commemorate the pioneers of the Mackenzie. The builders of the Church were instructed that the site was to be left undisturbed.

Even the matagouri bushes surrounding the building were to remain. The bronze collie sheepdog statue nearby was erected in 1968 in recognition of these wonderful animals, invaluable on high country sheep stations in this area.

Feel like even more clear skies and clean mountain air? Then, on your way back to Aoraki Naturally, call in to Lake Tekapo Airport (make sure you have that extra film for your camera) and take the scenic flight over the Southern Alps with Air Safaris. The Award winning "Grand Traverse" of Mount Cook covers the Mount Cook and Westland National Parks and departs regularly from Lake Tekapo. See it all - over twelve major glaciers and two hundred kilometres of New Zealand's most spectacular alpine scenery.

For the golfing enthusiast, the Lake Tekapo Golf Club is the highest registered golf club in New Zealand and it too is 'just down the road, . Fancy a round before lunch?

Aoraki Naturally is the ideal base to visit Mount Cook National Park, which contains our highest alpine peaks including Aoraki/Mount Cook.

The route around Lake Pukaki provides many photo opportunities to capture what is now known as Aoraki, the Southern Maori name for Mount Cook, rising over 3,700 metres above sea level.

Interested in wildlife? Twizel, another of the towns created by the development of Hydro Electric stations is home to the Black Stilt Aviary, operated by the Department of Conservation. Nearby Lake Alexandria, famous for its rainbow and brown trout fishing, has many secluded spots for swimming and boating.

There are several options for exploring the Mackenzie and your friendly hosts Kay Hannam and Brian Williams can arrange a guided tour if you do not have your own transport. Flying in to Christchurch International Airport is no problem as buses operate daily between Christchurch City and the Airport through to Queenstown via Lake Tekapo. Most coach drivers, if asked, are happy to drop you off or pick you up at our entrance.

Once on the grounds, it's easy to see why Kay and Brian love this area, with its million dollar view of Aoraki / Mount Cook, the rolling tussock ground offers plenty of room for camping and relaxing amid groves of birch, poplar and pine trees. A shady walkway alongside the creek opens out to a natural rest area below their country home. Ideal for barbecues, or just relaxing with a good book. Our Clothes free Homestay caters for up to 6 people and meals can be provided by arrangement.

Comfortable accommodation, whether bed & breakfast or backpacker type, park your camper, or pitch a tent; the choice is yours naturally so are clothes.

If you are contemplating taking a trip 'down-under,' to clean, green, beautiful New Zealand, then the Mackenzie has much to offer and where better to stay than Aoraki... Naturally.

For further information contact: Aoraki Naturally P O Box 76, Lake Tekapo, NZ Ph. +61 3 680 6549 Fx: +61 3 680 6202 Email: naturally@xtra.co.nz

Photos: Brian Williams

Some Australian naturists had a great time at Sunseekers in Perth W.A. whilst we here in NZ joined one hundred and eighty others at the Manawatu Outdoor Leisure Club in the lower North Island.

Although cyclonic weather conditions had been forecast for many areas of the country this holiday season, in fact the opposite conditions prevailed. Hot sunny weather parched many parts of the country allowing holidaymakers to have their best summer for years. And so it was that the Rally proceeded under clear blue skies with a slight sea breeze blowing into the grounds from the coast about 3 kilometres away.

Miniten players had difficulty with their balls being blown away when the gentle breeze turned into a zephyr but this difficulty was taken good naturedly by the players concerned. Relaxation was the order of the day at most campsites with the keen sports people gently coaxed through their games of Miniten, Volleyball, Tenicoits and Indoor Bowls without too much fuss.

Petanque had a great following this time, particularly finding favour with the women and more senior Rally goers. Played on the camping area rather than a regular piste, quite a lot of luck was required in addition to skill to progress through to the finals.

The expertise this year in the game of Miniten; in spite of the windy conditions, a very high standard was shown by the club participants from right around the country.

Although the players from Auckland Outdoor prevailed in the finals, it was not without the tremendous challenges put in by Wellington and Canterbury members.

The social side of the Rally consisted of leisurely gatherings in the marquee with Edna Ferry, a local singer of some note, entertaining us throughout one of the evenings, presenting songs from the 60's and 70's and music with which to dance on the grass floor.

This writer is unsure how many ankles were turned that night and on other occasions whilst "dancing" on the uneven turf. However it was most enjoyable with ample lubrication available from "Selina's Saloon" to ease the pain when necessary.

New Year's Eve was the usual grand occasion with members invited to attend in fancy dress. Although this Rally did not have a theme, as Rallies of the recent past have had, much thought had gone into the costumes on show this night with Auckland Outdoor members being the scene stealers with elaborate costumes obviously tailor-made for the occasion. It is a great help when one of the members is a dress designer by profession!

Singing and dancing continued into the small hours this night with many tired bodies evident during the New Year's day sports finals.

Catering for the NZNF luncheon, midday repasts and the champagne breakfast was carried out by Manawatu Outdoor members under the guidance of their resident master chef, Geoff. Morning and afternoon teas were provided and a well stocked canteen plus daily visits by a butcher and greengrocer ensured that Rally-goers were well fed.

The six days of leisure finally drew to a close following the sports trophy presentation and the General Meeting of members where topics of mutual interests were discussed.

The Millennium Rally 1999/2000 will be held on the grounds of Wellington Sun Club Inc at Te Marua, Upper Hutt.

So if you missed the Rally this time, why not make it a date and join us in Wellington, to greet the new Millennium.

Ironman winners, centre: Steve 1st, left: Peter 2nd, right: David 3rd

The final was a tough encounter with heat 2 winner Steve finally coming out on top with his old mate Peter 2nd and David 3rd. The ladies event was a close affair with Carol from ROSCO getting home first and Paula 2nd and Carol 3rd.

After lunch there was an attempt on the nude bootscootin record. As this was to be broadcast live on "NEWFM", people of all ages got together and started practising. At 2.l5pm there was a live cross to the radio station and a record 134 nudes started bootscootin. With the old record well and truly beaten, it will be interesting to see if any other nudist groups will take up the challenge and try to topple Samurai Beach group's new record.

As with all beach carnivals, this was not without the usual fun events. Instead of wasting eggs, the organisers came up with a new twist to the old egg and spoon race by substituting maltesers for the eggs. If you kept the malteser on for the race at least you could eat it. Maria and David managed to keep theirs on the spoon and came home first. The ball passing and water bucket races followed on before the grand finale, the crowning of Mr and Ms Nude Samurai Beach 98.

Twenty six men fronted up and did a little parade in front of the female competitors who were to judge them. Fourteen ladies then did their parade and everyone waited for the vote count. Lloyd was judged Mr Nude Samurai and Denise was Ms Nude Samurai.

The event was a fun day out for the many families and friends who attended. That wrapped up another great Samurai Beach carnival. Next year's carnival will only get bigger and better, so if you are in the Port Stephens area next November, pop on down to Samurai Beach for a great day out. Who knows, we may attempt the bootscootin record yet again.

If anyone would like more info, I can be emailed at muddy@netexcel.net.au

(Next year's event will be held on Saturday 20 November 1999) - Editor.

On the 15th November, the 2nd Samurai Beach carnival was held. As with last year, the major sponsors behind the beach carnival were River Island Nature Retreat, Bardots Nude Village Resort, Australian Sun and Health, Free Beach Association of NSW, Samurai Clothing Company and a new sponsor, a local radio station "NEWFM".

Thanks to the grateful help of these people, the carnival was a great success. About 1000 people turned out early on Sunday morning from some great fun events. As with last year, the beach filled up fairly quickly with a very colourful array of umbrellas and various forms of shade coverings.

The competitions began at 10.30am with the junior games on first and as usual all kids got a prize. There were a lot more kids involved in the games this year, which is good to see.

After the junior events, the senior fun started with a nude boogie board contest with the winners being Melissa for the ladies and Daniel for the gents. A nude surfing contest was a special feature with Jade riding a great wave to win the gents, event and Melissa taking out the ladies event for the second year running.

The blue ribbon event of the surf, the Ironman and Ironwoman events followed next with the competitors having to swim 150 metres, paddle a board the same distance and then run home over 100 metres. Due to the number of competitors in the men's event, it was split into two heats with 1st and 2nd from each heat going through to the final. An item of interest came to light with the two heat winners having gone to school together and were lifesavers at the same time but had not seen each other for 20 years until today.

TINTAGEL

SUR LA PLAGE

by Lance Lot

Well we heard and read about the exotic resorts in Europe, on the beach, so to speak, we thought well, why not! Because of all the hype we have heard about lately with nudists being seen as the main troublemakers on the beaches; hence the reluctance of Councils to consider legal nude beaches, we decided to create one of our own.

When we opened just over four years ago, our idea then was to develop a little paradise for the convenience and security of our guests, so they may enjoy the uninterrupted peace and serenity that "Tintagel" offers. Because we are the only resort in Australia to offer guests all types of accommodation, the only attraction missing seemed to be a beach. We have been asked many times by prospective visitors if we are situated on the beach. Whilst we are only 15 kilometres away, we are not. The next question being "are there any legal nude beaches in the area?", which there aren't. So Lancelot here set to with the pick and shovel, dug out an area and then refilled it with metres and metres of pure white sand next to our rock pool. You may have heard the saying that the Capricorn Coast region is where the outback meets the reef. Well we can say "Tintagel" is where the bushland meets the beach!

Guests who have used it so far have been thrilled.

Photos: ?

But the work didn't stop there. In the tree studded area adjacent to the "beach" and pool, we have reshaped the land and developed shaded lawn areas with barbecues and picnic tables.

Next time you're travelling through Rockhampton, please given Tintagel a ring and call in and have a barbie on our legal nude beach!

NEW ZEALAND NATURIST

FEDERATION INC.

YES! We have changed our name. At the Annual Meeting of the NZNF Council it was decided to adopt the word Naturist as our name in conformity with other Federations world-wide.

The word "naturist" has found media favour in recent years and whilst often confused with the word naturalist in the past, the "David Bellamy's" of this world have more readily identified themselves as conservationists, thus the term naturalist is not now used greatly.

Naturist Homestays were accepted as proprietary members of the Federation, thus expanding further our community of understanding and providing more opportunities for nude recreation.

As with past years, Press prizes were awarded for the best judged photo and feature article published in the N.Z. Naturist.

Lois Mead's article "Impressions of Central Otago" (issue #160) was judged best feature and the picture "Ian goes Boating" (Issue #164 IBC) by Les Olsen was selected as best nudist photo for 1998.

The following people were elected to office for 1999

Photo: Les Olsen

The Rally at Manawatu Outdoor Leisure Centre was well attended by some 180 people and a leisurely holiday was enjoyed with beautiful fine weather prevailing.

Next year the Millennium Rally will be hosted by the Wellington Sun Club at their grounds at Te Mania, Upper Hutt.

AUCKLAND OUTDOOR HEALTH

CLUB INC.

What a great summer we have had. The "La Nina" weather pattern was supposed to bring cyclonic conditions to many parts of New Zealand but instead we have basked in ideal naturist conditions.

A concerted advertising programme has been carried out by the Club and this has resulted in a large influx of new members.

During the past few months, a pool fence has been constructed and the immediate area landscaped and grassed to provide a focal point of activity within the recreation area. Of note also, was the fact that on the 21st December 1998 our club sewerage system was finally connected to the city main trunk sewerage. This, after some twenty years since the club installed the reticulation throughout the property. It is goodbye to the septic tanks forever, an event which has passed unnoticed by the majority of our members.

Some thirty members attended the Annual Rally "Naturally" held at Manawatu Outdoor Leisure Club during the New Year. AOHC members predominated at the Miniten, Swimming and Volleyball but most of all they had a very enjoyable and relaxing time.

Dave and Jojo were so keen to get there on time and with everything including the kitchen sink that on arrival they discovered they had a beautiful set of tent poles but no tent. Fortunately some of the locals were able to provide them with some tentage.

There was brilliant weather throughout the Rally and sunscreen and shade were a very necessary part of the Rally. Thanks Manawatu - it was great.

HILLCREST LEISURE CLUB

We are currently establishing a new clothes optional club, called "Hillcrest Leisure Club" in Wanganui.

We have land south-east of Wanganui, near Fordell.

Although our club grounds are only 2 hectares, we are welcome to explore any of the 1,000 hectares of farm on which we are established, which is a mixture of farmland and forestry, including a tranquil lake, which is worth the half hour walk.

The club grounds are, as the name suggests, on the top of a hill, with expansive views to Mt Egmont and Mt Ruapehu and the hinterland between. The grounds are peaceful with only the occasional bird call shattering the silence - a great place to be at one with nature.

Our grounds have running water and toilet facilities. Campers need to be self-contained.

We seek further members, both local and out-of-towners. We have social events such as movie visits, pot luck teas, barbecues, etc.

Although as the name suggests, clothes are optional, we are primarily a nudist club.

Membership enquiries and directions to visit our grounds may be directed to:

Dell - phone 06 343 1913 or
fax 06 343 1903, or

Mark - phone 06 343 2695

J D Groves

Melissa - Winner of Samurai Beach Carnival Nude Surf Race

TARANAKI NATURIST CLUB INC

Life around the Taranaki Club during the Christmas New Year break was the busiest that the club has had since their relocation to the new site of Brown Road. There were many overnight visitors from other clubs, and along with regular member, new members also enjoyed the facilities throughout the Christmas break.

Photo: Kevin Sampson

WANGANUI SUN CLUB INC.

We are very much alive and well. Being groundless at this point in time has not deterred us one little bit. We are actively looking for a suitable property to suit our needs, preferably to buy or lease.

We have had ongoing club activities and will continue to do so.

A few of us visited Taranaki Club for the first time on Jan 2nd, 1999. A most hospital club It is always nice to meet new friend

Please keep us on your mailing list, we do read the newsletters and keep them for reference.

We trust you've had a pleasant festive season, lots of sunshine and no mishaps.

You have not heard the last of us.

Best Wishes

Carol

The camping grounds were a hive of activity with additional camping areas for people coming to the club being sought constantly.

The Taranaki Naturalist Club can now visualise the reality of the plan proposed when the ground was first purchased and designed with camping areas, children's play areas, Tennis and Miniten courts and the relaxation area about the swimming pool.

Evenings throughout the holidays were spent dining on freshly harvested mussel's about the BBQ's and socialising with really good humour. During the day the pool was well patronised and Miniten played on a grass court along with Petanque and Beach Volleyball.

Each Wednesday the club is having communal BBQ's for anyone who is on site at the Club and new prospective families are welcome.

FREE BEACH GROUP

(South Island)

Highlights of our summer season have been many days at the beach, building sand sculptures, playing petanque, dunking in the breakers or just loafing, walking or lying around. Our membership has increased; and with the yellow flag flying we seem to be accepted - clothes optional - on any local beach.

A special thank you to Chris for inviting us to share in the ambiance of his country estate on a lovely spring day, to Kay for the day trip to "Aoraki Naturally" and to the South Canterbury Sun Club for welcoming us to share in the "Camping Extravaganza" in January.

Members and friends are looking forward to warm evenings at the Burwood indoor pool which are a main feature of our winter programme.

Joyce Flemming

Photo: Mike Kelly

ROTOTA SUN CLUB INC

Although old news, it is worthy of mention that the "mini-camp out" held at labour weekend was attended by 170 who enjoyed three days of relaxation and in many cases the renewing of friendships earned at the inaugural camp-out of December! January 1998.

The Christmas and New Year period saw a record number of members and visitors on the grounds and we were treated to a fabulous show of sun and more sun. In fact, inactivity and shade were virtually survival requirements.

It is with sadness that we also report that during this time, 2nd January 1999, our faithful clubhouse was totally destroyed by fire. When the first alarm was given at 11.30am, it was immediately apparent that saving the building was an impossibility as intense flames were already engulfing the structure. The main concentration was to dampen down the surrounding bush which was in real danger of "Taking Off" and the bucket brigade that took place was a major effort by all concerned.

Although, president Yvonne stated, "the fire was a sad event, and a set back, it was not a catastrophe". The Rotota spirit is already being applied and a clubhouse planning sub-committee has been formed to offer suggestions and recommendations to the next A.G.M.

Ironically, our next event is the Easter weekend "Party" this has been arranged to celebrate the last mortgage payment which sees Rotota totally freehold and unencumbered. As always visitors are cordially invited to attend.

PINEGLADES NATURIST CLUB

Even from 300km inland, good news from Pineglades reaches us at Aoraki Naturally. Jan and John Lewer from the North Devon Club gave a glowing report of their stay. Jan really appreciated the comfortable bed and the great hospitality that Pineglades is renowned for.

John did a double take when confronted by several Mickey Mouses at Tern's "Back to Childhood" 40th Birthday Party.

Letters to the Editor

A Banana Man who fooled everybody, Barbie Doll, Peter Pan materialised as a Pouffe Pixie (maybe the gorgeous Genie rubbed her lantern), Pooh Bear and Piglet (even I know who those two would be). One or two Red Riding Hoods and a horrible looking witch that cast spells on them all. The well rehearsed rendition of the "Full Monty", a real treat for a pouncing, bouncy Tiger, was a great highlight in a night full of surprises, including the Kareike, which went way past the wee small hours. Ever tried to sleep in Ted's Motel?

According to Jan and John there were just as many real children around the club next day and - surprise, surprise, many more women than men! Seems, An Invitation to Women is showing results.

With best wishes from Camp Mother.

COUNTIES SUN CLUB INC

Hi there everyone from the Counties Sun Club.

We have just had one of our best Christmas / New Year's ever, this due to the lovely weather.

The pool has been put to good use with may hilarious games of water volley ball being played.

Most Saturdays there is a "Happy Hour", followed by a combined BBQ. Everyone is most welcome to join in.

It is very pleasing to see our membership on the increase, especially families joining the club. The grounds are looking more like "tent city", with tents outnumbering caravans.

As we have changed our phone over to a cell phone, please note our new number, 025 296 2795.

On the Saturday night of Easter weekend, we are having a "Dutch Auction". Those of you who attended our last one, will remember the fun we had. Camping for the weekend will be FREE. Details to clubs will follow.

Jan

Photo: Kevin Sampson

Dear Editor

Back in January 1983 I wrote in my first editorial: "Welcome to the first issue of Australian Sun & Health, a new quarterly magazine for naturists. I hope you enjoy it and will support it so that it can continue and grow into bigger and better things."

In the closing months of 1998, Jan and I are delighted to say that the Australian naturist community did support us, and Australian Sun & Health has continued and grown since that rather humble Issue No 1, with just 28 pages and only 4 in full colour, to the latest release, No. 64, with 60 pages, all in full colour.

We thank you all most sincerely for allowing us to make such a contribution to our wonderful recreational lifestyle.

However, as the years go by most of us find that the idea of more leisure time and a lighter work load begin to have appeal. Jan and I have now decided that it is time for us to move on to retirement and we have much pleasure in introducing the new owners of Australian Sun & Health, Rod and Sarah Tyldsley. They will effectively take over as of January 1st, 1999.

Rod and Sarah are of course no strangers to Australian Sun & Health. Rod has been a regular contributor of both articles and photographs over the past couple of years, and Sarah appeared on the cover of Issue No 47.

They have both also made considerable contributions to naturism by assisting in organising functions at River Island Nature Retreat and last year's inaugural Samurai Beach Carnival. You may rest assured they will do all they can to further the acceptance of naturism in the community, and I am sure, as we move into the new millennium, their youth, enthusiasm and expertise will take the magazine to new heights.

Once again, many thanks for the support you have given us over the years, and we hope you will continue to do the same for Rod and Sarah.

Regards, Les and Jan Hotchkin

(During their stewardship of Aust. S&H, Les and Jan have been responsible for promoting the growth of naturism in Australia. We at NZ Naturist wish them every success in their well deserved retirement. - Editor)

Dear Editor

Swimming the English Channel

- AU NATURAL -

Fancy a trip from England to France the hard way? British Naturism (BN) is planning a nude relay swim across the English Channel. Now don't throw your hands up in horror, it IS possible and it will be properly organised.

The teams will consist of six swimmers, each likely to swim for two one-hour stints, the crossing typically taking about 12 hours.

There will be a fully equipped escort boat provided by the Channel Swimming Association who impose strict safety regulations. The idea is the brain-child of a very experienced Channel swimmer who has swum solo and in relay on a number of occasions, and he will arrange the teams and oversee training.

We aim to swim in July 1999 to benefit from the longer daylight. Swimming typically starts about 5 am. The sea temperature is around 60-62°F which is well within the capabilities of most good swimmers, swimming for one hour, especially as most Channel relay teams are composed of swimmers who usually train in indoor pools.

We are looking for volunteers who would like to take part.

A British team is being chosen and we are looking at challenging - in the most gentlemanly way - a team representing either the USA or the rest of the world. There are some costs involved, best estimate would be a maximum of £1800 (US$3000) per team of six swimmers to cover the swim to France (about 30 miles) and return boat. Refreshments will be courtesy BN. Please apply immediately.

For details contact:

Roger Johnson (BN, Sports Officer) Delph Cottage, Moorland, nr

Bridgewater, Somerset TA7 OAT, UK

Tel: +44 127 869 1548

Email: roger@delphcottage.demon.co.uk

British Naturism (CCBN), 30-32

Wycliffe Road, Northampton NN1 5JF, UK

Dear Editor

Whitianga and Mercury Bay have many beautiful sandy bays and many of them are quite secluded and ideal for a naturist club grounds.

I have only been in Whitianga for a few months and have made quite a few discreet enquiries trying to find local naturists but so far no luck.

If any readers of this magazine live in the Mercury Bay area or know of any Mercury Bay naturists, please ask them to contact me.

Regards, Torben, PO Box 241, Whitianga

Dear Editor

"Going Walkabout Again".

Seeing the classic Australian film on the big screen for the first time with its truly magnificent photography, viewers could also rejoice in several minutes of the most poetically beautiful nude bathing scenes ever captured on mainstream film. Jenny Agutter's lyrical, sensuous swim in the pool, and the joyous group skinny dipping scene she recollects at the end of the film; when she has returned to the so-called high life of civilisation; should be celebrated by naturists everywhere.

Nude isn't necessarily rude, and depictions of such innocent joy should be included in films where they tell us all just how good it was. Whether such scenes could be included in films of today with current censorship controversy is a disturbing issue - should such goodness be lost because of the perverted behaviour of a few who might use such scenes to incite their own already perverted inclinations?

Hopefully as a society, our innocence hasn't been completely lost, and the cinema can continue to include such scenes of beauty for all to share.

Stephen Grace

Whether you're taking a break,
or breaking your trip, Rose's Cottage
is just the place for clothing-free
recreation.

We offer the exclusive use of a
superior, modern, two-bedroomed,
self-contained rural home, complete
with spa, swimming pool,
spacious grounds and decks.

Conveniently located just a few
minutes drive from Levin and SH1,
we are just a few hundred metres
from a nine hole golf course and
a few kilometres from several
free beaches.

Continental breakfast is
complimentary and we are happy to
provide other meals by arrangement.

Photos: Lionel Mead

A few minutes from Levin, nestled in the rolling hills, is the picturesque "Rose's Cottage". As you approach the cottage you will be delighted by its appearance and private location. Once inside, you can feel yourself immediately unwinding as you take in the clean and luxurious surroundings with all the comforts of home, eg. washing machine, fridge/freezer, television set and video recorder.

Stepping through to the end of the lounge, the biggest surprise of all awaits you as you walk straight into a light and airy indoor pool complex, with the pool being maintained at a comfortable temperature all year round. Surrounding the house and pool is a large expanse of decking that overlooks peaceful green pastures along with a clean and spacious spa pool that is available for use at all times. A light breakfast is included and dinner can be provided on request by your friendly hosts who go out of their way to make you feel welcome.

Fern and Bill Mackenzie.

Photos: Robbert Broekstra

I.N.I.C. AWARD 1998

Each year the International Naturist Information Centre presents an award to a man and woman who, in their opinion, has furthered the cause of Naturism in their country or internationally.

This year the award was presented to Celso Rossi and Paula Andreazza - co-owners of Colina Do Sol in Brazil. They have two children, Gabriel and Valentina, and have been responsible for developing a community of naturists at three venues in recent years.

We congratulate this hardworking couple for their efforts.

Robbert Broekstra

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. 168 March 1999

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

Editor:

Les Olsen Tel/Fax (09) 444 5015

Business Manager:

Laurel Olsen Tel/Fax (09) 444 5015

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 101014,

North Shore Mail Centre

Auckland, New Zealand

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

The Secretary NZNF: Pamla Kelly
PO Box 20498
Glen Eden, Auckland 8
Tel 09-836 3610, Fax 09-836 3657
Email: nznf.sec@xtra.co.nz

President: Kay Hannam
PO Box 76, Lake Tekapo
Tel/Fax 03-680 6549
Email: naturally@xtra.co.nz

North Island VP: Mike Kelley
Tel: 09-836 3610, Fax 09-836 3657

South Island VP: Christine Turner
Tel: 03-337 3464

Applications for membership of Clubs should be made direct to the Club Secretary (see Club Directory).

PHOTO CREDITS

Doug Ball IBC, 2, 13, 14, 15,

Les Olsen FC, BC, 1, 15, 20

Mike Kelley 14,15, 22. Les Rootsey 3, 4, 5

Roger Wright 6, 7. Brian Williams 1, 11, 12

Tony Hodskiss 1, 16, 17, IFC. Lionel Mead 25

Kevin Sampson 8, 9, 10, 21, 23

Robbert Broekstra 26b, 26c. Joyce Fleming 26a

DEADLINES FOR COPY

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AUSTRALIAN NUDIST CLUB DIRECTORY