# 171 - December 1999 

2

3

6

Editorial

Kai Iwi Lakes -
Northland

Camp in @ Tripp School

Photo: Gordon Sim

14

Blue and Gold Day

Photo: Les Olsen

16

20

21

Nuddie Oasis -

30 yrs at Nelson

Club News &
Guff & Stuff

7

11

Simply the Best -
Wellington 2000

Grit and Glory

Photo: ?

EDITORIAL

With the recent achievement of Auckland Outdoor Health Club reaching its 50th Anniversary milestone, it is timely to reflect on the development of the naturist movement in this country during the past half century.

Whilst naturist activity took place infrequently among friends and relatives at isolated beaches and rivers from the early 1930s, it has only been in the second half of this century that organised naturism has been an acceptable recreational activity.

The earlier attempts at organised naturism were largely unsuccessful due in the main to the social standards prevailing at the time. Group nude activities were very much secretive and known only to a few friends as to the locality in which the outing was to take place.

It wasn't until after World War 2 that social attitudes began to change following the strictures placed on everyone due to the wartime commitments. It could be said that people saw the end of the war as an opportunity for a new beginning and thus social attitudes changed quite dramatically around this time.

Recreational nudism was rediscovered and groups began to form at localities throughout the country due mainly to the publicity by Perc Cousins in Wellington who was prepared to be identified as the promoter of the naturist lifestyle.

He was able to co-ordinate the many individuals nationwide who had shown an interest in the activity and through his work and encouragement organised groups formed at Auckland, Wellington, Wanganui, Christchurch and Dunedin.

Although groups formed initially in those above regions, there was also interest in places as far-afield as Timaru and Nelson Waikato, Gisborne, and Palmerston North. Groups formed eventually in these regions during the 1960s.

Photo: Doug Ball

In most cases clubs needed to purchase their own property: usually a remote site away from the towns where the land prices were not too prohibitive. As membership grew, the purchase of the land and other amenities become achievable and today we have a number of clubs with very fine facilities indeed.

The greatest upsurge in membership numbers occurred during the early 1970s, and thus the number of clubs in some of the smaller centres were able to become established. The eighteen clubs who today belong to the New Zealand Naturist Federation and own their own properties have worked extremely hard to achieve their status in their own communities.

Their success has been due mainly to the forthright attitude adopted by the various club officials by being prepared to be recognised in their communities as the leaders of naturist activity.

Wellington (2000), Wanganui (2001) and Canterbury (2002) are soon to reach their 50th milestones.

They are to be congratulated for their efforts in securing fine facilities and enduring the hardships during those many years of endeavour.

In spite of the strictures placed upon our clubs with car-less days in the early 1970s, seven days shopping and consequent loss of family weekend social activity in more recent times, naturism has achieved a remarkable success in maintaining the clubs and activities throughout.

This magazine which began publication in 1956 as The Naturist Review has been the vehicle by which the promotion of nudism has been carried out in New Zealand and overseas.

With the new millennium almost upon us, perhaps it is time for us to shed our remaining inhibitions, adopt a more outgoing attitude to the communities in which we live and present naturism as an enjoyable recreation pastime for young and old alike.

Les Olsen

Editor

Known as Ripiro Ocean Beach, this stretch of sand is a gazetted highway. It is possible to drive along the beach two hours either side of low tide but local knowledge of conditions should be sought. Rich in seafood, this awesome beach is the graveyard of at least 113 recorded ship wrecks and salvaged relics can be viewed in Dargaville.

After a quick cup of coffee we hurried off to spend some time with the giants of the plant kingdom, some of which had their roots in the soil prior to the coming of the Maori to our shores.

An afternoon shower didn't detract from the awe with which we viewed the majestic Kauri trees in Trounson Kauri Reserve and Waipoua Forest before continuing to our accommodation at the Opononi Resort Hotel.

On the Sunday we enjoyed the refreshing southwesterly breeze as we walked on the beach at Omapere and Opononi before heading for Rawene that was celebrating the arrival of its new vehicular ferry with a fair. Then it was off to the Mahoe Cheese Factory to sample some traditional Mahoe cheeses and then back to our home in Whangarei.

By Alan Harvey

An awesome weekend escape to giant kauri country, from Whangarei, gateway to Northland the vacation playground of Auckland city, New Zealand and the world. It was off early one Saturday morning, to explore the loop from Whangarei through Dargaville, the Kai Iwi lakes recreation reserve, the majestic kauri forests, and beautiful, historic Hokianga. With a relaxed schedule we took time out to enjoy the cuisine at some of Dargaville's trendy new coffee bars and check out the Northern Wairoa River's interface with the town. A collection of fine vintage motor launches line the banks of the river providing the opportunity to catch a glimpse of boating in a bygone era and reminisce about the pioneering days, when these vessels and their like were the main means of transport in the area, plying the aquatic highways of the Kaipara Harbour, as far away as Helensville, close to Auckland.

We were eager to explore the Kai Iwi Lakes and even though it was late May we could not resist a dip in the crystal clear waters, while the sun peeped through the clouds to warm our bodies. Being Late Autumn, the solitude was magical as the lakes, water-skiing facilities and camping grounds were all deserted.

Kai Iwi Lakes are also a paradise for swimming, board sailing, canoeing and trout fishing.

You can walk to the wild west coast where 100 kilometres of golden sands lie before you all the way to Pouto the northern headland of the notorious entrance to the Kaipara Harbour.

Photos: Alan Harvey

CAMP IN

@

TRIPP

SCHOOL

Photo: Grant Phillips

I normally travel by motorcycle, but going further afield, I accompanied Chris in his red "dinky" car. On the Wednesday, we left the coastal drizzle and headed inland to join the crowd who had travelled down from the summer camp at the South Canterbury Sun Club for a day visit to "Aoraki Naturally". This property near Lake Tekapo is being developed by Kay Hannam and Brian Williams as a clothes-optional homestay. We were intrigued by an unusual wheeled contraption with chimneys which stood in the driveway by the house. This turned out to be a mobile provider of outdoor meals - a trailer carrying both fridge and barbecue on which Brian cooked hamburgers for our lunch.

Back at the Tripp School, home of SCSC, were campers including several from North Island Sun Clubs and Nudvan as well as many friends from the Free Beach Group. I hadn't put my tent up for two years, so got it wrong. Wayne and my neighbour helped put it up correctly.

I was interested in the number of families there.

My neighbour's four year old daughter was continually pestering dad to be allowed to take her clothes off and be clad in only sunscreen. Under these conditions, clothes washing is not a problem.

Thursday was the only day we had light rain, but the pot-belly stove in the clubhouse put out such a heat that it was still clothes-optional. The rest of the days were so hot that nudity and shade or pool were the preferred options. Talking, laughing and playing petanque were the main adult activities.

The children had a great time playing together, frolicking in the pool and joining in the various feasts and games. Programmes put on specially for them included arts and crafts activities, story-time and evening fireworks.

It was pleasant to welcome Volker and Rebecca back from their trip to Germany. They reminded us that they had a traditional white Christmas and had to catch up on the browning process.

There were three actual birthday celebrations during the week but one would have thought there were more from the number in their birthday suits.

For morning and afternoon teas, some kind souls baked some interesting treats, enjoyed by all.

On the Friday evening Christine's partner, John, a fisherman who had been at work all week on the high seas, barbecued fresh fish for everyone.

Some of the advertised evening entertainment didn't eventuate, maybe because it stayed light so long in the warm evenings. People ate late and lingered outdoors. However, everyone was in the clubhouse on the Friday night to take part in the programme of entertainment provided by "Fred Bear Players" (Joyce, Bert & Lester).

We were invited to seek advice from "Doctor Legge-Pulley, M.D.""How can I lose weight?" someone asked. "I've tried the light seafood diet but it doesn't work. As soon as it gets light and I see food, I eat it." "To lose weight," says the doctor, "you should try skipping. "Skip breakfast, skip lunch and skip tea."

"Doctor, I'm having trouble getting to sleep at night. "Well, lie on the edge of the bed and you'll soon drop off". "What's the cure for water on the knee?"

"Drainpipe trousers." On dear! Suffice it to say that the BMA would not have approved but the audience certainly did.

A musical game was prefaced by Joyce advising us to start off by wearing as little as possible, since "wearable art" would be provided. The mass strip - with teasing - that followed would have made an interesting video clip. Beatles music started up - "Help" and "Money can't buy me love" while Kleensaks full of outlandish garments were passed around the circle. The person holding the sack when the music stopped dragged out an item of clothes (sight unseen) and put it on. For me, how "easies" got their name baffles me. They certainly weren't easy to put on. A bag of accessories (hat, wigs, masks, etc) completed the ensembles.

Hot weather prevailed on Saturday. In the afternoon, all were 'persuaded' to join in Top Ten games which Helen had organised assisted by Wayne. Balloon catching especially was quite a laugh as the penalty for missing was a wetting. Clothes optional became nude preferred.

A highlight of the week was the "sheep on the spit" prepared by SCSC president, Matthew. I was intrigued to see syringe-fulls of red wine injected into the sheep carcass as a marinade and slits made for the insertion of garlic. A washing-machine gearbox turned the sheep for the six to seven hours it was barbecuing, being basted by a mixture of wine and sugar.

Salads etc. were provided pot luck for the alfresco evening meal. The meat was better than I have had in any restaurant.

Photo: Gordon Sim

My thanks to all who spent so much time and effort into making the time enjoyable. Everyone co-operated, even the sun.

by Gordon Sim

It's dark by the time the last sausage is retrieved from the barbecue. Some are still driving tent pegs into the ground, tired yet satisfied with their choice of holiday destination. I've often thought of rallies as being like a family reunion. That's probably the reason they call me Camp Mother.

Wellington Sun Club will have it's 50th birthday next year. Throughout their history at Five Acres a number of improvements have been made, including a large hall built several years ago. Badminton, table tennis, indoor bowls are well catered for. The hall has two mezzanine floors, one for children, the other for meetings and a purpose built stage complete with curtain, lighting and special sound effects.

On 28th December 1999 the NZNF Council meet for their AGM, to hear Executive reports, elect the officers for the ensuing term and enjoy a healthy debate on a number of options as a result of the 1998 NZNF Survey. Breaking with the tradition of meeting at the conclusion of the rally, the members meeting will follow that afternoon. Immediately afterwards the official rally opening ceremony for Wellington 2000 will take place.

The ensuing six days will see three hundred plus attendees enjoying a variety of social and sporting events that our national rallies are renowned for. For many the opportunity to compete for the sixty or so trophies up for grabs. Others content in taking a more relaxed attitude lazing under the shady trees, or luxuriating in the new spa and sauna complex.

Photo: Les Olsen

For many, the plans were cemented some years ago when Wellington Sun Club presented an excellent proposal for this year's NZNF Rally. As with previous rallies Wellington 2000 promised to be 'Simply the Best'.

The thought of travelling around Christmas time, to some, is a bit of a grind. Not so if you are headed for Five Acres at Te Marua, 6kms past Upper Hutt turn-off on State Highway 2.

There's nothing better than to arrive early, set up camp quickly and get the registration for sports events out of the road. A leisurely swim in the sparkling pool, then onto the miniten court to suss out the competition!

Another swim and shower, then across to the Happy Hour and al-fresco barbecue.

Of course it never happens like that does it? From the time you drive onto the grounds, the gentle hub of conversation reaches a familiar crescendo, punctuated by welcome shrieks of recognition as old friends renew their acquaintance after a year or two. Immersed in animated conversation, we exchange the pattern of our lives since our last meeting. Scurrying around tearing lettuce leaves apart, assembling cutlery and condiments in chilly bins to greet again, familiar faces - smiling, happy to see you as they make room for you at the picnic table.

Young children intent on modelling in the sandpit, others establishing their territory in the play area, are well provided for in the rally program. In fact all ages and interests are catered for including the youth, who have their own representative on the rally committee.

A number of camping areas have been landscaped on the terraced grounds, with good access to the many powered sites. Convenient cooking facilities, hot showers and clean toilets are a must on any campers check-list. You won't be disappointed at Five Acres.

The covered barbecue area is central to all amenities and is complete with an outdoor garden bar for socialising after your game of petanque, tenniquoits, volleyball or miniten. You name it, they've got several courts on which to play it.

The evening entertainment program promises something for everyone from 'Gangsters & Molls Night', 'Back to School Days' and 'Into the Future'. Of course you have the option of travelling into the city to celebrate the new millennium. However Camp Mother will be revelling with the rellies at the 'Sexy Sizzling Sixties New Year's Eve Party'.

So make the decision. Join the Wellington Sun Club for 'Simply the Best' way to celebrate the new Millennium.

Write to: Wellington 2000

PO Box 2854, Wellington, NZ

or email wsc@clear.net.nz

View the web site at

www.nznaturally.org.nz/Wellington

Kay Hannam

Photo: Doug Ball

Photo: Doug Ball

Rallies would be held 4 to 5 times a year. The club did no advertising, but quickly accumulated a larger membership merely by word-of-mouth. For example, whenever "Movanners" were found in any of the nudist clubs, they were presented with the opportunity to join the Nudvanners as well. For a while there were qualms about members being taken away from existing Societies, but on the contrary, the opposite tended to take place, and in fact, much support was offered from various clubs, where it is interesting to find 'visitors books' revealing an abundance of Nudvan guests. It was also reassuring to gain the favours of folk like Peter Holt and Les Olsen, who defended this "different way of promoting naturism".

These days, Nudvanners enjoy invitations from other clubs, particularly when sports competitions are involved. These 'inter-club' days bring about pleasurable meetings in the congenial company of fellow naturists. Happy Hour and Pot Luck bar-b-q meals finish off a great day, loads of laughter being the main course on the menu. Rallies are the mainstay of the club. The very first of these was held at Otamarakau, but the initial concept of four or five a year soon grew to regular monthly gatherings. Being on the committee involves only four meetings per year, and members are kept in touch by means of a regular newsletter, essential for notification of assemblies and functions.

The club is always on the lookout for new members. Anyone with an interest in naturism and the mobile life of bussers, vanners or campers is welcome to join. For example, it is known that many retirees are buying motor-homes, travelling far and wide, and perhaps at the same time, visiting naturist clubs. The Nudvan way of life is a great means to this end.

Shirley Morton

NUDVANNERS

Picture this: picnics at Parakai, umbrellas at Uretiti, nature walks at Ngatuhoa, fun at Fernlands, kai at Katikati ... These locations are far apart, but when Nudvan members choose any one of them for a weekend rally, a fun-time is assured by all who attend.

Having no fixed abode, Nudvanners generate their own habitat, wherever their impulse may lead them. Be it a visit to another club, a muster on the beach, or some particular recreational venue, no matter what direction the group takes, you can be sure a welcoming, family atmosphere will prevail.

"Nudvanners?" you say, "never heard of them!" Broaden your horizons, people. It's time to lend your ears - or in this case, study the transcript.

It all began in 1992, or more correctly, three or four years earlier. Several Sun Club members happened to be Movanners (recognisable by their "wings" logo).

With their common interest they seemed to band together, and eventually the suggestion was made that they form their own nudist club. An inaugural meeting was held on July 25, 1992. In the form of a midwinter pot luck dinner, thirteen of the required fifteen people needed to start a new club, gathered at Ros and Maurie's home in Tauranga. It was decided there and then the club would be known as Nudvan, form the words Nudists and Vans. After much groundwork by Dawn, before long, enhanced numbers enabled the club to be registered with the Incorporated Society, at which time the initials N Z N U D V A N became: New Zealand Naturist United Driving Vans Anywhere Naturally. Quite a mouthful, but "Nudvan" did nicely.

Back to that first meeting - each of those present put in $5 to start a fund; it was decided joining fees would be minimal; screening of prospective members would be essential.

On November 14, 1998 I was picking my way heavily over a 'sea' of skull-sized stones to join with Israeli naturists. Ein Gedi, on the shores of the Dead Sea is 399 metres below sea level - the lowest point on the face of the earth.

One of only a few Israeli settlements bordering the Dead Sea, Em Gedi has a quiet spectacular nature reserve, a number of health resorts and budget accommodation as well.

The "leader" of the local naturists, Pinhas Baraq, came out of the water to greet me as I approached. A slim animated man in his 50's, Pinhas impressed me immediately as a naturist to his very core. A refreshing inspiration. A total of 27 people from Be'er Sheva, Tel Aviv, Ra'anana and Jerusalem, gathered to enjoy nature "as nature intended", that day, including five children.

At certain points in the shallows, you can scoop up some of the black, slightly smelly mud the Dead Sea is famous for, slap it on all over, let if dry, then in the VERY buoyant waters wash it off followed by a cleansing scrub in a fresh water creek. A sensation similar to scrubbing yourself with baking soda.

Just as I was about to go into the lake ("Sea"), someone called "John". Thinking it must be Pinhas, I headed for the voice. Adi and Torrit from Jerusalem, whom I had last seen locally at Katikati Naturist Park, were standing there as large as life! A small world.., or Providence? But simply splendid to meet with them again in their 'neck of the woods'.

So it was that I witnessed, via Adi's translation, the coming together of Israeli naturism with the rest of the naturist world. As everyone gathered in a circle, Adi explained the working of the International Naturist Federation and how Israel would fit into the 'picture'.

Pinhas told me later, that some very lively talking was done on the future status of singles in Israeli naturism. He is adamant that there be no discrimination against singles.

The meeting also changed the name of the group from Israel Nudist to Israel Naturist Society.

One guy I spoke to said public nudity is still illegal in Israel, but is tolerated. There is a nude beach at Eilat, on the Red Sea and I heard of another near Nethanya, north of Tel Aviv.

Every Friday evening, in Jerusalem, some locals gather at a sauna in natures 'uniform', not all coming from organised groups. There are two groups operating in Israel with different emphases.

They appear to get on well complementing each other, not competing.

I did notice two things that day. The number of single women separate from the group who stripped off for a 'blob' in the water and the number of times in the meeting New Zealand was mentioned as an example of a place where naturism is well-established.

The Nature Reserve rangers who visited the beach that day gave expression of their good feelings that we left the place cleaner than when we found it, a duty for real naturists who respect nature.

Israel, a country with such continual tension can gain much as it draws closer to nature.

John Calermbo

On July 6 1999 the first ever naturist team successfully swam in relay from Dover to the French coast in 3 hours 43 minutes. They unceremoniously landed at Cap Griz Nez near a group of nonchalant French school children! The all British team had made history. World-wide media coverage ensued.

The team of six, four adults, one an experienced Channel swimmer and two teenage girls had all responded to naturist-media adverts and word-of-mouth enticements to participate. The challenge was first presented to British Naturism last October and immediately gained the organisation's financial backing.

The initial intention was for two teams, a British and an International challenging team. In the event, only the British team took part.

The swim is operated under the Channel Swimming Association's (CSA) strict rules and each support boat carries an official observer.

In the first instance many people think a relay swim will afford great latitude to each swimmer. Perhaps any number of swimmers can participate, limited by practical logistics, like the support boat capacity. With each swimmer swimming until they or the team leader wanted to change swimmers, and with swimmers taking random turns. A shark cage perhaps! This is not the case. The CSA rules are very different. In principle the team have to pre-define their swimming order of six swimmers and not change it. The seventh standby swimmer is only available for last minute substitution up to but not after the start of the swim. The start is from above the highest high-water mark, which is more customarily regarded as the 'top' of the beach. Each must swim for one hour exactly. At every changeover the fresh swimmer must enter the water and swim past the tired swimmer before the terminating swimmer is permitted contact with the boat. In-ocean refreshments are only for the solo swimmer. This all results in a very serious and dedicated team effort, with tremendous individual pressures. One failure at any time and the swim is aborted. Hence the pressure increased for the latter swimmers, however exhausted!

Ruth Fay and Josie Hoare swam on three occasions, the others swam twice.

Only one of the adult swimmers was an experienced sea-swimmer. The others owed their success in no small part to the well-coached practice swimming sessions including many hours swimming in the calm protected waters off the magnificent Studland beach, home of the UK's largest and most popular naturist beach. Any amount of careful planning can never be equal to the real thing, for unbeknown to the swimmers Studland was to prove too protected for three of the swimmers who were to experience sea-sickness in the Channel - two repeatedly and Ruth horribly so.

but with dogged
determination, she
persevered
and mentally
surmounted that
horrible energy
sapping, collapse
in a heap and
double-up feeling...

The weeks of practice ticked by and the great day relentlessly beckoned. The original 10 strong selection-team was now depleted to seven - the minimum required for the swim to go ahead.

By Friday, team-leader Roger Johnson realising time was fast running out passed the media contact work on to me. The coastal shipping weather forecasts were scrutinised and experienced judgements announced. The report for Monday July 5 was unsuitable for the Channel attempt. This anti-climax meant everybody was to stay at home on the Sunday. The late Sunday forecast boded well for Tuesday. Tension mounted.

Monday 7am forecast gave the green light. The swim was on for Tuesday. Inner doubts surfaced. Everybody must be accommodated near Dover by nightfall, some with many hours travelling to do.

Reality hit hard. This was it. But the coaches were having no wavering, they'd seen all the trepidation before - they would swim, everything had been done - and conditions were good.

Four AM saw the feverish activity around the 40ft Vivacity of Kent skippered by David Whyte with his girlfriend as crew-member and another crewman. Boarding were the six swimmers, the CSA observer, the two coaches and at my earlier insistence in rightful support of his 15 year-old daughter, Desmond Fay.

After loading, and harbour formalities were cleared, they motored out of Dover harbour to the nearby Shakespeare beach. A cliff-backed beach from which many cross-Channel swims commence. The Vivacity of Kent stopped a few hundred yards off

shore. The comparative luxury of using the dinghy to land was declined in favour of swimming ashore. So Ruth and Roger armed with his waterproof camera swam ashore. After a few photographs Ruth had to wait at the CSA observer's insistence that Roger re-board the support boat before the swim could commence. A chilling nude wait at 5AM!

At 5:10am on July 6 the onslaught began. Fifteen year-old Ruth Fay set forth after a brief picture session, gallantly leading naturism into new waters. The sea was very calm, unlike Ruth's stomach, for as every landlubber discovers you need sea-legs, in the meantime your stomach may periodically take centre-stage. Ruth's training had not rehearsed her

for this highly discomforting interlude at sea, but with dogged determination, she persevered and mentally surmounted that horrible energy sapping, collapse in a heap and double-up feeling, punctuated with your mouth becoming a temporary stomach annex. Never to be experienced in the sea! Hanging on the side of the boat or recuperation on-board would mean abandonment of the project - and failure for everybody. It was digital-decision time for Ruth to 'stop' or 'go', and with masterful fortitude she swam on. On with the challenge. On to savour achievement.

The five hour inter-swim rest periods were unrelenting discomfort for her, by every account from Dr Johnson on-board.

In spite of her acute discomfort Ruth swam three one-hour periods - right into her wonderfully proud parents hearts.

Josie Hoare swam second, uneventfully until her hours-time was called. She swam twice more landing in France 43 minutes into her third hour.

Next was Tammy's father Trevor Colman, followed by his 17 year-old daughter.

Tammy's neck suffered an ignoble and very painful encounter with a jelly fish. How would you react? What would you expect your teenage daughter to do? Get treatment now! No, not Tammy, for the stalwart fortitude she resolved to swim on. On to underwrite her team. On through steadily worsening sea conditions. On unwittingly through a sewage slick!. The extent of which she only learnt about once back on board. Tammy distastefully grit her teeth as she was told, whilst her face was a picture of exhaustion and apprehension. What else could befall her! She was soon to realise how utterly delighted her parents were!

The very experienced swimmer Duncan Heenan was next, then tail-end Charlie and team leader Roger Johnson, already suffering a swirling stomach leaving him two-legs short of feeling stable in or out of the water!

For those spoiling away the hours on deck, the early morning haze soon cleared and a hot day ensued.

Swimming progressed steadily; it was a perfect day for sun bathing, at least for those who were not sick! And through all this idyllic leisure nobody thought to report on their progress! Civilization was falling apart and they didn't care! Who were they to worry! They had been very kindly sponsored - now was the time for enjoyment!

The overall cost is around 1800 pounds including the CSA and support boat. As swimmers have to pay their own travel and accommodation a subsidy or sponsorship is very important.

Such events are bound to attract media attention which all participants must be prepared for - being named and photographed is all part of the course. Ruth lead the way with her unashamed and frank openness. She took up the challenge vigorously from the outset, talking about it at school and telling a boyfriend about her naturism for the first time on a "tough luck" if you don't like it basis. She sought and secured sponsorship and swam to raise money for some Charities, as did some of the other swimmers. Ruth's unselfish openness won everybody's admiration, not least her extremely proud parents. If you are keen to enter for next years swim then you won't be put off by this factual and candid account.

But time and tide wait for no man and progress when nearing the French coast fell victim to an increasingly adverse tide.

Would the Press be waiting? Exhaustion and determination wrung everything they could from mind and sinew. Exhaustion won through but only after Josie, the last to swim, doggedly surmounted Neptune's tidal-drag and proudly landed naturism's historic foot in France. She was closely followed by three other swimmers who wanted to savour their own glorious moment - the delight of completion and triumph. Immediately they landed, mysteriously both their mobile phones were working and two reports of their success were filled within minutes. To everybody's relief, in view of their exhausted and sick condition, the Press were not there.

Landing in France was to be cut short, very short, the return journey would take several interminable long-drawn hours. A return amidst mutterings of "Never, ever again", all heard by their coaches on many previous occasions. But the coaches will confirm that for most swimmers the bug has bitten and they will be back.

Right now getting to Dover meant food and sleep, or so they thought. It was not to be that easy. What else could befall them arriving back after 10PM at night? Yip, the wonderful Press, happy, smiling and fresh - when do these guys sleep??

News was flashed world-wide, picked-up and used by some and not by others - but the success lives on, hopefully to be bettered next time. Will you be there?

Roger Wright

British Naturism's team of six relay swimmers left Shakespeare beach (Dover, UK) at 5:10 landing on a French beach l3hrs and 45 minutes later as reported by team leader Roger Johnson (BN's Sports Officer). Enthralled with the fun of the occasion four of the team swam ashore in France and their achievement was reported by mobile telephone from the support boat the 'Vivacity of Kent' immediately the swimmers landed at 18:53 British Summer Time.

The team, who did not wear any thermal protection throughout the swim, comprised a doctor, a policeman, two 15 year old girls and a lady grave digger. Initially sea conditions were perfect and calm, progressively worsening during the crossing. This resulted in a rather rough ride back to Dover in the support boat - with a hint of seasickness taking hold on some exhausted swimmers!

The event was held under the rules and requirements of the Channel Swimming Association which require an official observer on the support boat.

The race must start and end above the highest water mark, therefore to be certain they are not disqualified, swimmers go to the 'top of the beach'. In a relay team event, only one swimmer needs to land and go up the beach for the swim to officially qualify, which this swim has done.

Throughout the day the UK media have shown considerable interest and everybody has been thwarted by bad to impossible telephone communications during most the crossing.

We didn't dare, bare thinking about
But alas! our worries were soon put to rest
Maureen drove up - parked in her nest
Big hugs, hello's off inside, stripped for a brew
we bathed outside, evening sun, the mountainous views
the swift rolling river ... Pukekos two
We later wandered through the old willow trees
Majestically gentle they swayed with such ease
as we enjoyed the warmth of a northerly breeze
Sunset came, we strolled inside
Another family, all tired, arrived
Laughter, Jokes, conversation aside, we all decided to retire
Saturday morning I awoke to hear ..."Bugger"
Come have a look .... Chrissy Dear"
A flooded loo and hallway floor
with 2 inches of water "Oh what a chore"
5.30am Towels, mop and bucket, they started to swell
soak-squeeze as we sang in time
It must be the night fever.., we know how to do it well
Just when our dilemma was over
Matthew came in "to hunt from the window?"
Maureen awoke from her beauty sleep
while I brewed what was needed ... a strong pot of tea
Down with the tools we all sipped away (ah! Relief)
but the loo soon started to flood again
with technical bends while prodding around
Maureen's ballcock was fixed, the overflow went down
Later ... while packing lunch for the day
I glanced out the window and "Hey"
'cave man' and 'cave woman' were on bended knees
beheading two roosters for a BBQ feed
Our day was super, extreme we drove
high in the ranges upon a goats road
We walked for hours sweated and laughed
smelt the history, talked of the past
some gathered mushrooms while others discussed...
the hard working people who once lived in these stone huts
Each view, from each angle, each one unique,
yet Mount Cook stood proud, above all other peaks
For one moment atop in the ranges we paused
to visualise flying like a pilot on course
so high, so clear, the gullies dipped to rise,
and just in that moment we reached for the sky

Later ... We stopped at Carricktown, enjoying the sun's warmth
as we walked, as we talked, we could feel the past ... Humm
the butcher, the baker, the gold diggers, the haymakers,
the hotels inviting, filling tankards with ale, and
plates of hot mutton, served with fresh bread, and more ale
Amazing strength of these tough pioneers
Each cherished dreams for a new land sown
Their legacy to pass to their children when grown
Now, all that remains is a nostalgic scene
And so our days outing drew to an end
A BBQ dinner ... enormous at Maureen's
we ate, we drank, we laughed and we roared, and often
deep conversation was ordered.
As the evening progressed the fire too roared
so we veged out nud on the Turkish rugged floor
Sunday came, we were relieved you know
for the loo, it did not overflow
And still one proud rooster continued his crow
And the hunter, he shot a few rabbits also
SO! We met new faces
Travelled new places
And Maureen's place
Is a Nuddie Oasis

Poem written by Chrissy Bare

Photo: Bert Vince

Natural Friends

Natural Friends is a new venture structured to allow for both sub-group and individual registration in a group with a specific clothes optional policy.

After only a couple of months operation we have six sub groups available. All of those are geographic but we expect to have a Natural Friends of Gardening operational soon.

The intent of this organisation is to 'mainstream' naturism. It is centred around a newsletter intended for the general public.

Naturists are simply one of the special interest groups supported, like gardeners. Extra pages on these matters are chosen by those persons registering which pages they would like to get. Of course, while getting off the ground, the special interest pages available will be rather dependent on finding articles for them!

Friend's Feedback, the newsletter, offers budding writers an opportunity to have their work published. Submitted articles can be on any subject.

The Newsletter is available by contribution or donation. A donation of $10 will ensure monthly newsletters for the following year.

Natural Friends can be contacted via:

PO Box 908 Whangarei.

Ph/Fax (09) 437-4924;

Email j.lowe@clear.net.nz or
rlmorris@igrin.co.nz and supported
by Morris Enterprises.

John Lowe

The Nuddie Oasis - Central Otago

Photos: Bert Vince

Naturist Week

A week long celebration of clothes free recreation held in conjunction with our counterparts across the Tasman will again take place in February 2000 from Saturday 5th to Sunday 13th. Last year, in addition to the beginning of filming the documentary, Nude Zealand, clubs around the country held a variety of activities. From the annual Waitangi Day Volleyball Tournament at Pineglades, 'Bring a Friend Day' at South Canterbury Sun Club to seriously blobbing out at Hawkes Bay Outdoor Leisure Club. NZ Naturally 2000 offers another opportunity for the NZNF to utilise its resources and raise our profile. In turn clubs can capitalise on this promotion by recruiting new members during the week long Trans-Tasman National Naturist Week.

Check out the calendar of events being held around the country on the NZNF Internet site www.nznaturally.org.nz. If you're planning on crossing the Tasman during this week, Australian Sun & Health magazine portrays an even more exciting choice of activities at naturist clubs and beaches around Australia as well.

Following the successful documentary on naturism screened on TV3 earlier this year, the NZNF has now installed the Naturist Information Freephone 0800 NATURIST 0800 628- 874. This number has been listed in the Yellow Pages under Clubs & Associations in the Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin areas.

Information about the number has also been circulated among the Visitor Information Network, Citizen Advice Bureaus and some libraries. It is hoped that by circulating this number widely, those that wish to find out more about naturism have easy access to that information. We would welcome any additional ways to publicise the number. In the meantime, please assist our efforts by advertising the Naturist Information Freephone 0800 NATURIST 0800 628 874 and www.nznaturally.org.nz at every opportunity.

We have had an extremely busy year in which to end this millennium.

Let's keep the momentum going that Nude Zealand provided us with. It is now on record that simple nudity is acceptable to a far wider audience than others would have us believe. Make the most of the media opportunities during NZ Naturally 2000 with a free feature article in your regional newspaper or phone local radio stations. Put up a display in an empty shop window, fitness centre or university. Distribute leaflets around your area inviting the neighbours to an evening barbecue. Free follow-up publicity is just there for the asking. Take it with both hands!

Mark the dates on your calendar now Saturday 5th to Sunday 13th February 2000.

It has been a privilege and an honour to serve you as National President. I have been extremely fortunate in having fantastic support from my partner Brian Williams, family, business associates and friends. I am indebted to the NZNF officers, in particular Pam Kelly and many of you from clubs around the country that I come into contact with. I wish each and every one of you all the very best for the festive season and a wonderful transition into the new millennium.

With your continued involvement, clothes free recreation will become an accepted and valued choice and clubs, suitable beaches and country areas will continue to be enjoyed naturally.

Kay Hannam

President NZNF

The last twelve months have been very exciting for the Nelson Sun Club. The incredible publicity we have had not only increased our membership, it has also lifted the morale of the club and put everybody on a high. This could not have happened at a better time as this year is not only the celebration of the end of the millennium it is also the thirtieth birthday of the club.

The Nelson club, before it was incorporated, originally had its grounds on a three hundred acre property in Pretty Valley, about thirty minutes drive south of Nelson. It was unmanageable and short on good facilities. Eventually one of the members, who is still part of the club, saw the present property and it was agreed to purchase it. In October 1969 the club drew up its first constitution and incorporated, it is this birthday that we are celebrating in October this year.

There is an aerial photograph, in the clubhouse lounge, which shows the property as it was in the nineteen - fifties and sixties, not a pretty sight.

The club grounds today when compared to this photograph are a credit to the members who have gone before and the enormous amount of work that they have put in. Sadly, most of them, for one reason or another, are no longer members of the club. We are, therefore, making the birthday party an opportunity to get in touch with as many of the past members as possible. We hope we will be able to demonstrate that, whatever the reason for their lapse of membership, we are worth another try.

The millennium celebrations are going to be a big event for most people no doubt and Nelson will be no exception. We are inviting all naturists to come and have a blow-out with us. Please bring your own accommodation, the house is booked out already.

Photo: Doug Ball 

We are accommodating our own members and also people from the U.K. and the U.S. But we have plenty of van and tent sites.

The celebrations are going to start early on New Years Eve with a golf tournament, no doubt some miniten, swimming, spas, nibbles and a lot of talking and getting to know you again. Then we will have lamb on a spit and other goodies, finger food nibbles and drinks to help lubricate our voices for the karaoke and our legs for the dancing as we see in the year 2000.

To start the first day of the new year we are going to have a strawberry and champagne breakfast followed, in the afternoon, by a garden party. Ladies a hat and gentlemen a bow tie. Come and help us bring in the new, we are going to do it in grand style.

If you have been a member of the Nelson Sun Club in the past, have missed out on the party, but would like to make contact with us, please make yourself known by phoning (03) 5432-SUN, or write to us at Box 33, Upper Moutere.

We will be very pleased to hear from you. If you have not heard from us before reading this article and therefore did not get to the party, we are very sorry, we probably could not find your record or address. Sadly a lot of older records have gone astray.

It may be that you have just drifted away from the club over the years. Maybe your teenage children took you away, something you may never have intended, and you just haven't got around to renewing your membership. Why not accept this as an invitation to do so, an invitation to take up where you left off. This is a great club, it has been made great by a long list of people which includes you. It would be wonderful and very good for the club to see many of the past faces and personalities back again. Why don't you help us make the beginning of the new millennium a time we will all remember as one of the best times in the history of The Nelson Sun Club.

Peter Admore.
President.

The summer months are here and the weather has been so warm that all the grass and new trees planted are taking off. We have removed eleven large pine trees from "Palm Court" and are in the process of removing some of the pines from "Lovers Lane" much to the delight of the residents nearby.

The plan is to replant with native trees to attract more native birds and also provide the shade and shelter necessary, but to plant trees that will only grow to a maximum height of four to five metres. This project will be ongoing as the area to clear is quite a large one.

With Wellington being the place to be for the rally this New Year, we are having a low key gathering at the Club grounds for the 31st December for those members who for one reason or another are unable to make it to Wellington. It should be a good night.

We've celebrated birthdays and so on, in the Clubhouse over the past couple of months and the "Open Invitations" extended to all club members to attend have been well responded to. Roll on more birthdays and special occasions. Using the clubhouse for personal special occasions has recently come to the fore again and is proving to be a great success.

Thanks to Murray, we have-updated our web page on the Internet and have included more details about our club and what's happening around the place.

We always welcome visitors, so if you happen to pass our way, look us up. As the gate is kept locked during the week, a prior call is always a good idea.

Candace.

During the German winter of 1998 (i.e. the New Zealand Summer) and on our second trip to New Zealand we visited the Auckland Sun Club Inc.

This club is the oldest naturist club of New Zealand. More than 60 years ago some people of a like mind met for the first time on private property. the number of members grew and soon - due to different priorities - a second club developed, on larger grounds including permanent camper sites.

Auckland Sun Club Inc. is only 30 minutes away from the inner city of Auckland with its approximately 1 million citizens, and yet you are in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by subtropical rainforest. The hills of the Waitakere Ranges make a good background for this property which is owned by the club. The clubhouse in spacious grounds offers plenty of opportunities for activities and relaxation.

In winter the cosy open fire is the focus for social gatherings and exchanges of thoughts. There is no room for boredom with darts, table-tennis and pool table, as well as with a piano, a small general and naturist library. Special draw cards for club members as well as visitors are the sauna and spa pool. The swimming pool completes the range of health care. Be it to cool down after the sauna or in the considerable summer heat. In these latitudes the pool is a hit with children of all ages. The safe kiddies pool is right next to the main pool.

Naturists interested in sport have got the options of Miniten, Badminton, Volleyball and Trampoline or can play Petanque on the extensive lawns. You could get even closer to New Zealand nature.

There's short track through native bush to a creek which used to serve as a swimming hole with a little dam in the early days of the club.

After all those strenuous activities and relaxation, the brick barbecue and the kitchen in the clubhouse with its small bar cater for the culinary needs.

For a special treat the Auckland Sun Club offers a geodesic dome, designed and built by one of the club's members. It traps the sun's warmth inside but keeps the wind outside. The special skin covering the dome also filters the dangerous UV-rays making sunburn impossible. The dome is especially popular during the colder part of the year, because of the considerably higher temperatures inside the dome. The dome covers 42sqm at maximum height of 2.75 m (because it can be shifted with only 5 people, and is therefore mobile, no building permit is necessary).

If you wish to stay at Auckland Sun Club for a while, you are welcome to pitch a tent or reserve a powered site for your camper-van. Phone (09) 814- 9973.

FKK MAGAZINE

A colourful and informative 28 page supplement in The Press, featured Rolleston as a "Town of the Future" where "A quiet revolution had taken place: during the last three years there had been a dramatic 121% growth in its population."

Aerial photographs from 1996, with the population of 1066 were compared with used computer-enhanced views of the year 2015+ capturing in graphic detail a potential population of 14,000. Closer observation revealed a familiar green, rectangular oasis still amid the burgeoning township.

Several Canterbury businesses have played a major role in the development of the town. Their contributions advertised throughout the supplement alongside the numerous community services and local identities. This barren rural district has been transformed into a vibrant township.

Several Canterbury businesses have played a major role in the development of the town. Their contributions advertised throughout the supplement alongside the numerous community services and local identities. This barren rural district has been transformed into a vibrant township.

So it was no surprise to find among the following pages, a photo of a rather familiar looking swimming pool, accompanying the complimentary and well-written article entitled "A life in the SUN". Lynette McKnight, President of Pineglades Naturist Club, herself a member since a child, had thrown down the gauntlet to the residents of Rolleston asking them to cast aside their inhibitions and visit the club during their next weekend's open day. Emphasising the social aspects and on-site facilities, Lynette reassured readers there were no Elle McPherson bodies at the club. There are all body shapes, from skinny to big, and everything in between.

The club is aware the development of Rolleston in creeping towards their boundary and have been active in planting more trees for privacy, both for themselves and those people building homes adjacent to the club.

The recent television documentary Nude Zealand highlighted the special bond the Rolleston Fire Service has with Pineglades Naturist Club. This article reinforced the commitment the club has to being an acceptable part of the Rolleston community.

Kay Hannam

Our 50th Anniversary weekend celebrations were a wonderful success with some 123 persons attending the Anniversary Dinner in the marquee erected for the occasion. The weather throughout the weekend was warm and sunny providing the opportunity for club uniform most of the daylight hours.

A magnificent plaque was presented to AOHC by Pamla Kelly (Secretary NZNF) on behalf of the New Zealand Naturist Federation and now adorns the wall of our clubrooms.

A great team organised the Friday night wine and cheese evening and another group organised the Anniversary Dinner and associated events. Our thanks are extended to Laurel, Joy, Gemma, Doreen, Margaret, Freda, Marie, Daphne, Truus, Ann, Tina and the many others who assisted to make the weekend such a marvellous success.

The Anniversary cake was cut by long term members Hans and Tui whose membership began in the 1950's.

Mayor of Waitakere City and club patron Bob Harvey and Mrs Harvey joined us for the early part of the Anniversary Dinner and wished the club well for the future whilst speaking about the great development of the club grounds since their purchase in 1955.

Photo: Mike Kelly

It was good to see the past members from around various parts of the North Island in attendance arid they remarked on the progress that had been made since their last attendance.

Recent work has resulted in the roadways being upgraded and metalled and the swimming pool and filtration system being upgraded.

All is in readiness for the festive season and we look forward to welcoming visitors and new members alike to our place in the sun for the new Millennium.

Civilisation is creeping closer to our grounds with the new motorway and access road to Orewa only a few hundred metres from the club.

Planning improvements to the club site continue with two caravan hookup points now in place. Swim nights at Parakai which we organise have been well attended with 71 persons being the lowest number and 105 being a record for this venue. Members of the public have been attending and have gone nude also.

Our mid-winter Christmas Dinner was great and the monthly socials well attended. Our first garage sale was held on the wettest day of winter, but the alternate days saw us collect $530 nett.

With the shortest day behind us and the weather well settled, we look forward to a great summer. Come and join us at Kirikau.

Jim Peddison.

Letters to the Editor

Lake Waikaremoana - North Island - New ZealandPhoto: Graham Hall

Dear Editor,

I would like to share with readers, this following excerpt from the book "Manhood", by Steve Biddulph. In the chapter entitled The Wild Spirit of Man:-

"When I was about fourteen, our family visited a place called Venus Bay. We were a close knit family, in that deathly English way, and in our new country as social isolates things were getting to the pressure-cooker stage! Family drives and camping trips were welcome breaks from the monotony of day-to-day life. I include this background to set a kind of mood to my adolescence that is important to the story.""This particular day dawned sunny and perfectly still. We had Venus Bay to ourselves and walked by the waters edge, just taking it all in. The Australian coastline still had places where the forest runs down to the sea and a sense of wild nature pervades. After we had gone a kilometre or two along the sea edge, I decided to go for a swim and walked into the trees behind the dunes for a private place to change into by bathers.

Standing with my clothes off, in a glade of sunlight among twisted tea-trees and vines, I was aware of a combination - my body unfamiliarly naked, warm sunlight on my pale skin and a smell of honeysuckle. Half-lit glades festooned with creepers lay all around.

"There was a sense of total, primal wilderness that was seductive, welcoming and mysterious all at the same time. Sexuality was in there along with other more global feelings. At that moment I simply felt more alive than I had ever recalled feeling in my whole life. I could have run off into that forest and never returned."

Who cannot help but relate and empathise with these feelings. Could I say to all uncommitted would-be naturists to "get alive, get naked, and live in the spiritual world of nature whenever possible".

John Trotter

NUDITY OK

Scenes of bare breasts and male genitals in a documentary about nudists did not breach broadcasting standards, says the Broadcasting Standards Authority.

The Inside New Zealand documentary, Nude Zealand, shown on TV3 in June, prompted Aucklander Kristian Harang, who had never seen male genitals on television before, to complain to the authority.

He said the documentary portrayed nudity as normal, where as few people in New Zealand were nudists and many would object to nudity being screened in their homes.

He also objected to the 8.30pm screening time, saying it could have a detrimental effect on children and young people.

However, TV3 said the show's depiction of nudity was innocent and non-sexual and portrayed the nudist's bodies matter-of-factly.

TV3 said verbal and written warnings preceded the show and it was shown at an adults-only time.

The authority refused to uphold the complaint as the footage was "entirely relevant" to the documentary and did not breach accepted norms of decency and taste.

The use of warnings and screening time did not breach broadcasting codes regarding children and viewing.

Thought you all might be interested in this.

Pam

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. 171 December 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).

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AUSTRALIAN NUDIST CLUB DIRECTORY