CANTA ISSUE 8, 2024

CANTA

Canta Sex Issue is released!

CANTALENDAR

30th July

Fat Eddie’s Quiz Night 7pm @ Fat Eddie’s

29th July 31st July 1st August

UCSA Winter Wellness Expo, 10am-2pm @ Ti Kouka

Late Night Poetry Hour 9pm @ Little Andromeda

UCSA Open Mic Night 8pm @ The Foundry

Christchurch 360 Trail Guided Walk 9:15am@ Annex Rd, Hillmorton

August 3rd August 4th August 7th August 8th August 9th August 10th August 12th August

2024 Canterbury Art Show Opening Night 7-9:30pm @ The Cashmere Club

UC Postgraduate Information Evening 6-8pm @ Central Lecture Theatre

Midwinter Session @ Wolfbrook Arena

UCSA International Ball 7pm-11pm @ Haere-roa

Open Mic Night 7pm @ Rolling Stone

Next Canta mag drop!

Editorial

LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX BABYYYYYYYYY

Issue 8 – the perfect number for the perfect issue, the one that everyone on campus holds out for: THE SEX ISSUE.

Last year you all went absolutely crazy for it with all magazines on campus being picked up in the first few days of being out on stands. We hope we have made you all proud with this one.

Hopefully you are all settling back into term time smoothly and enjoying your courses. Remember, if you aren’t – see a course advisor and have a chat to them about what you want to do. Don’t leave university with regrets, that isn’t what this is all about.

But let me get back to the thing on all of our minds: wtf is the sex issue? Dude, first of all – where have you been? Secondly, it is the best way for us to talk about everything there is to do with sex without stigma, because no one needs their student magazine acting like their mum. People are getting some all the time! Sex is totally normal and a way for us to have a little fun, heaps of pleasure, and get to know ourselves and others a whole lot better.

We created a magazine filled with students’ opinions and experiences with sex from how and where you are all doing it, what is the most common STI at the moment – see Elsie’s piece if you want to know more, to your most favoured sex positions. Alongside the crazy, a lot of our writers’ did a massive deep dive into the history of sex, waves of feminism, religion and sex, and other deep investigations into the (other) messy sides of sex.

If you are new to Canta this year – welcome my freshers, to the craziest issue of the year. Yes, you are seeing correctly – there are naked people in this magazine! What better way to show the stunning diversity of UC students’ bodies than with a cheeky sex photoshoot. Everyone should be proud of their body and ALL of their assets. That is what this issue is about. A huge thank you to the wonderful photoshoot models, you were all fabulous and the most iconic people I have ever met. The confidence you all showed was next level, we are so happy we were able to have you all in the magazine!

Remember, with how good sex is in general – why go ruin it by not asking for consent or respecting peoples’ boundaries? If someone says no, the answer is no. If someone isn’t comfortable with something, don’t push them. And as always, stay safe out there – wrap it up or use protection when going down on someone. STIs can impact everyone who is having sex – no matter your sexuality or situation. Get tested and use protection! Let’s be real though – there are so many of you who aren’t using protection. If you do contract an STI, please just tell the people you’ve slept with, you’ll feel so much better about the situation if you’re honest and I am sure they would appreciate knowing too.

That’s enough from me, hope we didn’t mess up the puzzles this time around.

Look after yourselves and stay sexy - always.

Your 2024 Managing Editor, Hariklia Nicola

President's Piece

Sex. A vital part of life. Your parents did it, and you can too (for real your choice though). If you’re not too busy having sex, you should consider running in the UCSA elections! Nominations are now open, and the exec is really a great head start for no matter what career field you’re going into. I won’t bore you with words so instead I’ll refer you to our Instagram and Facebook page as well as our website which has the position descriptions!

Last week we held our Half AGM which provided an update on the first half of the year for the UCSA. Missed it? Here’s a quick recap of the most relevant stuff!

The Lecture Recording Policy passed at academic board in April, which means that all lecture type content must now be recorded, which means lecturers can no longer avoid recording those Monday 8am lectures!

The club space has been a real pressure point for us. We’re committed to ensuring that the support for clubs is as strong as ever and have entered in negotiations in regards to the SSL funding allocation.

AI has been a massive focus this year, and we have successfully worked with the university to pass an AI position statement. UC's approach to artificial intelligence (AI) - and the core principles around that - is outlined in the position statement.

Kōrero and Coffee has been a great initiative that has allowed us to get in front of the student body a lot more. We’ve taken some really interesting questions and provided helpful insight into the daily going ons of the UCSA. We hold them every Tuesday during term time in front of the President's office.

Reviewing how study spaces work has been an interesting challenge. It’s an important balance between providing ample space and providing good information about it. We have been working very closely with the university in ensuring that spaces are not only fit for students, but are actually accessible too. $2 soup. Every Thursday during term 3 from the Foundry.

So, there’s that! There was lots more covered, but for that - you’ll have to read the minutes of the meeting up on our website.

Life here is great. We have a campus that actually has space between buildings, some of the cheapest rent in the country, and of course a really strong student organisation with an empowering relationship with the university. I really mean it when I say that the UCSA is such a special organisation to be a part of and that it is well worth the effort in putting your name forward as a candidate. Your voice carries power as a student representative here at UC. You have a say and influence every student focused decision. And I'm not talking about the president's role. Our faculty reps are so crucially important and directly input and change things like courses through faculty feedback forums. Our advisory group representatives serve a crucial role in representing marginal communities that may have

less of a voice. It is such a rewarding role and one that I cannot talk up enough!

I also wanted to throw in a reminder around looking after your physical health. It is important to keep active, especially during long study sessions. Go for a walk between study sessions and opt to walk or bike to uni on nicer days instead of spending half an hour trying to find a car park. On top of physical activity, get your teeth checked! We offer subsidised dental vouchers every Monday on our website which will subsidise up to $500 in treatment. It’s always good to go for a check-up even if you think you’re doing okay since there might be underlying problems you aren’t aware of.

New issue, new photo! Here’s one of Knödel and me prepping for Re’Ori!

As always, stay fresh!

Luc

Tumuaki Piece

Mā te pātai ka mōhio, mā te mōhio ka mārama, mā te mārama ka mātau.

Do you know what we love? Tea. Green tea, ceylon tea, iced tea, girls tea after a night out, you name it. We love piping hot tea with a side of biscuits, and playing a good ol’ game of connections (we love it even more if the tea is in those marae mugs, iykyk).

Let’s chat about tea.

At the marae there are tikanga which Māori follow in order to manaaki our manuhiri. For the sake of this piece, let’s call this marae etiquette. Marae etiquette looks a little like this: After the pōwhiri, the hau kāinga will have tea, coffee and Kai in the wharekai. Whilst our manuhiri are eating, our ringawera, or rangatahi will offer our manuhiri a cup of tea. How, you may ask?

He kapu tī māu? (Would you like a cup of tea?)

Ways in which people may respond include, but are not limited to:

Āe, he kapu tī māku. Yes, I would like a cup of tea Kāo, e pai ana au. No thank you, I am good. Ākuanei pea. Maybe later.

And the cool thing about marae etiquette is that we don’t force a response on our manuhiri, and we don’t force them to drink the tea either. If a person initially answers yes, but changes their mind, that’s kei te pai. If they initially answer no, but change their mind, that’s also kei te pai. If they are having a hard time making up their mind, we don’t rush them. We understand that it sometimes may be a hard decision to make. Another thing about marae etiquette is that we ask how they prefer their tea. How, you may ask?

He huka, he miraka rānei māu? Would you like sugar or milk in your tea?

And again, there are a range of responses.

Āe, kia rua ngā huka. Kāore he miraka. Two sugars please, no milk.

Āe, kia tahi te huka. He miraka hoki. One sugar and milk please.

And so on, and so on…. The options sometimes feel endless, especially when you have your fussy aunty, and your nanny who speaks so slowly that you forget what she said in the first place.

Regardless of how the conversation progresses, it is vital to understand that no matter what, the manuhiri always have the right to decide for themselves whether or not they want tea. And they always have the right to change their mind. No matter how far into

making the cup of tea you are.

Okay you’ve figured it out…. we’re not talking about tea. Well, we are. But we’re also talking about consent. We’re sure you’ve all been briefed on consent, but here’s your friendly reminder to ask for consent. Consent is cool. If it’s not a definite yes, it’s a no. In te reo māori we have a whakatauki that goes “Mā te pātai ka mōhio, mā te mōhio ka mārama, mā te mārama ka mātau.” which translates to “With questions come answers, with answers comes knowledge, with knowledge comes wisdom.” Don’t underestimate the power of asking.

So, long story short, remember to always ask for consent. It’s literally illegal if you don’t. Oh, and make sure to always ask your manuhiri if they want a cup of tea (an actual cup of tea).

Wairaamia Taratoa-Bannister & Te Rina Apakura

Tumuaki Haumi o Te Akatoki

Glossary:

Marae- Meeting place

Pōwhiri- Helcome ceremony on a marae

Hau kāinga- Home people, local people

Manuhiri- Visitors

Manaaki- To care for, to be hospitable Rangatahi- Youth, younger generation Ringawera- Kitchen hand, kitchen worker

Canta News.

The pinch of fast fashion on Op Shops

Jordan Smith (he/him)

The way op shops are able to operate is being effected, as a consequence of fast fashion.

Christchurch City Mission Op Shop is usually a haven for those who are looking to purchase quality garments at a bargain price, but now quality is becoming even more difficult to find.

Tina Burrows, the Retail & Logistics Supervisor of the Mission, told Canta that fast fashion garments from giant distributers such as Temu and Shein are becoming an all too familiar site within their donations.

“We have noticed a large influx of ‘fast fashion’ garments through our stores”, Burrows said.

“As the items are generally unrecyclable, people tend to donate rather than discard their goods. I believe in a lot of cases people order garments and they do not meet their expectations on delivery, [meaning] they are then donated in relatively new condition, but due to their quality are harder to move on.”

Due to this increase in poor quality clothing, the Mission is now in an ever-increasing struggle to provide quality clothing, especially for those who need it the most.

“[W]e not only sell our donated clothing, but also give it out for free to those in need. It is necessary to have a good supply of quality, warm clothing on hand - especially for those sleeping rough”, Burrows said.

“It is becoming harder to supply items like woollen jerseys and quality

jackets throughout the winter months.”

Additionally, the environmental impact of the fast fashion industry is a constant reminder of what frequent, impulse buying has on the planet’s health.

According to Greenpeace, New Zealand’s total clothing and textile waste comes out to 180,000 tonnes a year, the equivalent to 6429 shipping containers. Moreover, 85% of all fast fashion garments end up in landfill.

Burrows also commented on the sustainability issue that fast fashion presents to the Mission.

“The influx in cheaper garments does mean our dumping bills escalate. We do have a ‘Free Bin’ where we put unpurchased clothing in the hope to reduce our costs but we still have a lot that ends up in landfill.”

Even with fast fashion seeping into the Op Shop environment, Burrows insisted that it is still possible for those to purchase quality garments, especially “students coming through to get a bargain”

“Our city store has all clothing at $2.00,” Burrows said.

“At the Christchurch City Mission, we like to be able to provide clothing to those in the community in need. Our pricing structure supports this by keeping our garments at a very affordable price.”

Protesters call for action outside Ilam MP Hamish Campbell’s Office

Amy Riach (She/her)

Calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and direct action from the National Party, local protestors rallied at the Ilam office of National MP Hamish Campbell, demanding that the National government “speak plainly,” and acknowledge the conflict in Palestine as a genocide.

At noon, on Friday 11 July, the Ilam protest congregated on the roadside, before marching past MP Campbell’s office doors, chanting, and brandishing the Palestinian flag. The protest was organised by career activist, Shanti Ahluwalia on behalf of PSNA, (Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa)

In a media release delivered the day of, Ahluwalia called for Campbell and the National Party to “finally” call the Palestinian conflict a genocide, “acknowledging that Israel is committing genocide could have far-reaching implications for New Zealand. Under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, New Zealand is obligated to act to prevent and punish genocide. By acknowledging that Israel is committing genocide, New Zealand might no longer be able to support Israel’s military efforts.”

The roadside protest was accompanied by shouts of “shame,” accusing the current National government of not caring, and crucially, of not acting. Ahluwalia says this protest is the first step of many, until “we are making inaction so uncomfortable, they have to take action”.

But although many drivers honked and waved, cheering the protest on, not everyone supported the roadside activism. One driver shouted at undeterred protesters, to “just go home!”, and another discouraged bystander countered the “freedom for Gaza!” chants with her own protest anthem, “freedom for Aotearoa!”.

A local Ilam resident, who says she is standing for rights of Māori, objects to the protest not because she stands with National, but because she claims, “we should fight our wars here, in Aotearoa, before we fight wars overseas”.

“We’ve got a war happening here, on tangata whenua”.

However, the Palestinian conflict is very close to home for many Cantabrians, and according to Ahluwalia, “there are a lot of Palestinians here in Christchurch, and many are very, very involved with this”.

During the protest, Ahluwalia attempted to deliver Campbell’s office a letter, stating that this is “asking nicely” and promising that future action will greatly disrupt the National Party. Campbell was not present during the protest, and has not made a comment.

Ahluwalia said he is “inspired by how much these folks care”, and has plans to continue “upping the pressure” on National. He claims the National government is poised to set “one of the most precedents ever: allowing the escalation of conflict in the Middle East. We are defending Palestine, but we are also defending our legal norms on the international stage.”

The battle for contraception and accessible healthcare

Heidi Slade (She/her)

*All names used in this piece are not real to maintain anonymity of sources.

While contraception is typically used as birth control, a portion of those using different forms do so to alleviate symptoms including painful or heavy periods, symptoms of conditions like endometriosis and more.

While Aotearoa New Zealand Government agency Pharmac funds a range of contraceptives, those aren’t always a viable option.

So, what happens when you cannot front the cost of unfunded, or partially funded contraceptives, as well as administrative costs attached even to the funded ones, like doctors’ appointments and follow ups?

Holly* was diagnosed with endometriosis when she was 16 and was put on a funded pill to help with pain. When that pill didn’t help, she switched to another that was unfunded.

Three months’ worth of the medication cost $52.

“It is a huge chunk of my budget that goes towards my pill. On weeks I have to buy it I am unable to buy anything else but the bare necessities.”

Had the contraception been funded, she would no longer have to juggle paying for medication on top of expenses.

“Denying access for some people would be detrimental, or they might not be on the best pill for them. Birth control is super important for female health in both a sexual capacity and [for] so many other reasons such as endometriosis, other illnesses and acne, and making some funded and some not is a big divide.”

Lucy* went on funded contraception at 13 because of painful, heavy periods.

“My periods were so bad that I often found myself having to go home from school halfway through the school day … [the] doctor told me that it was normal and told me that going on birth control would fix it. I was a little disappointed to be told that my debilitating pain and bleeding through a heavy flow tampon every two hours was normal.”

Lucy found it caused vomiting, acne, brain fog and fatigue and didn’t help with periods.

Proposed speed policy in the hands of council

Jordan Smith (he/him)

After a meeting by the Christchurch City Council (CCC) on July 3, the decision has been made to consider a report which outlines a submission to reverse speed limit reductions implemented after January 1. The submission is to increase speed limits and additionally introduce variable speed limits outside schools.

The submission has come into the spotlight after the current Government drafted the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits Rule 2024, which gives authorities such as the CCC new procedures, criteria and requirements to evaluate.

Ilam MP Hamish Campbell believes that if these changes were to be implemented, it would have a profound positive impact on Ōtautahi’s roads.

“As I engage with residents in Ilam, many raise Labour’s blanket speed limit reductions as an issue with me, so I am pleased we are delivering these changes,” Campbell told Canta

“We can expect to see several local streets in our area revert to the 50 km/h speed limits that were in place before 2020. Our residents will no longer be needlessly slowed down by these illogical and untargeted reductions.”

However, with safety being at the obvious forefront of the conversation when it comes to increasing the speed on Christchurch

Lucy’s contraception was always funded, so that bit was free. Otherwise, they have fronted prescription fees and doctors’ visits, which cost $60 when they turned 18.

“There were some weeks I was unable to pay for pet food, petrol [amongst other things] as I had to pay for doctor visits instead.

“Maybe if there was no funding towards any contraceptive methods then doctors would actually take into consideration what each patient personally needs. In saying that though, the same outcome could be achieved by ensuring there was funding towards every form of contraception.”

Pharmac Senior Therapeutic Group Manager/Team Lead Alexandra Compton said the agency works to fund as many medicines as possible, but within a fixed budget.

“We need to make our decisions by drawing on the best available clinical evidence as well as advice from clinicians and the lived experience of people with various health conditions.”

Compton said the agency has also received a new funding application for combined oral contraceptives and are planning to seek clinical advice on this.

Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa Chief Executive Jackie Edmond said the organisation is a low-cost provider, working to keep services as affordable as possible.

When asked why some contraceptive services are funded, while others are not, Edmond said it was complicated, and largely due to government level decisions.

“We know there are many demands on the health budget, but we think sexual and reproductive health is so important that we want to see free visits whatever provider people choose to go to for all their sexual and reproductive health needs.”

Edmond said Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa would like to see sexual and reproductive health services available at no or low cost, with more options for contraception and to expand services over the phone.

roads, some have strong reservations to these proposed changes.

Former Ministry of Transport Chief Science Advisor and current Professor at UC Simon Kingham commented that the research on road speeds makes it clear that lower speed limits are good and how the council’s ability to implement these changes is “undemocratic.”

“The policy in question is a bad one, as it has no base of strong evidence,” Kingham said.

Furthermore, Kingham made it clear the speed increase would directly affect students, especially those who use other modes of transport to make their way to campus.

“With an increase in speed, the walking and cycling commute [will become] more dangerous and less enjoyable.”

Campbell had comments of his own surrounding the possible altercation of safety that the changes would have, including how “safety has to be the main consideration in any decisions made,” while also focussing on how speed was only one factor in road user safety.

“We are already investing a record amount into pothole prevention works, and our new Roads of National Significance will be amongst the safest roads in New Zealand,” Campbell said.

Lesbians and the Men Who Love Them

Alexandra Brown (she/her) Opinion piece

Content Warning: Mentions of sexual harassment and sexual assault.

Any woman who dares bat their eyelashes at another woman can fall victim. My friends and I have bonded over the shared experience of adding our sexualities to a Hinge profile only to be met with a four-word response by some guy. “You’re [insert girl-kissing-orientation here]? That’s hot.” Telling a man you’re gay seems like it would turn him away as efficiently as pepper-spray, instead it turns him on. These shared encounters highlight the troubling trend: pervasive sexualisation of lesbian identities.

Initially, it is difficult to understand why this cultural phenomenon is commonplace. The sexualisation of anything requires thought and/or action about those first three letters - sex. So why is it that straight men are so intrigued by a fantasy in which they would play no role?

It is a separate fantasy to, say, a threesome, where he would at least have a purpose. Perhaps it is the voyeuristic, ‘I’m-notsupposed-to-be-here-but-I-am’ nature of it all. Perhaps it is the idea of changing a woman. Or, perhaps it is nothing more than having power over them.

This idea is touched on in a review for the Japanese film, Ride or Die, where an author for DIVA Magazine notes that, “Straight men have long had a fascination with lesbian women, viewing them as challenges to win over because it is unfathomable that sex could happen and be enjoyed without a man being involved.”

And it’s not reduced to one medium either. Many modern songs popularised in our culture include descriptions of lesbians being fetishised by straight men.

Take I Like Girls by PnB, for instance, which opens with the lyric, “I like girls who like girls.” Straight to the point, if nothing else. This lyric encapsulates a popular trope in modern music where sapphic relationships are simplified and objectified. Girls Want Girls, a Drake song released in 2021, exhibits these same fantasies. “Staring at your dress because it’s see-through, say that you a lesbian, girl, me too.” Drake, buddy, you are not like us either! This hypersexualisation has severe implications, permitting sexuality to be used as a tool for objectification.

This pattern of fetishisation extends beyond art and into various entertainment industries, particularly the porn industry, where the portrayal of lesbian relationships is often tailored to satisfy the male gaze. In 2023, ‘Lesbian’ was the third-most frequent Pornhub search term in the world, and the first in the USA. This statistic underscores how deeply ingrained and widespread the fetishisation of lesbian relationships is in Western society.

Now, Pornhub’s own analysis sheds light on the nuances of different demographics, noting that the lesbian genre(?) was the 1st most viewed category for women, and the 7th most

for men. A quote from PornHubs Insights suggests that, “[i]t seems to signify that no matter your gender or sexual orientation, viewers love to see two women getting together.”

However, the way lesbian relationships are depicted in pornography, especially high-budget, profit-driven porn, cater to straight men’s fantasies rather than expressing genuine lesbian intimacy. These portrayals are typically hyper-feminised and almost exclusively involve women who conform to patriarchal beauty standards, ignoring the diversity within the sapphic community. Not only is it misrepresentation, it contributes to the epidemic of queer relationships being reduced to mere spectacles for male pleasure.

Each recurring example of this demonstrates that straight men believe we are helpless, inexperienced beings in need of being taught about the wonders of heterosexuality, and not human people capable of making our own decisions and having an understanding of our own bodies. This belief shared amongst straight men puts queer women in danger, brewing accusations about ‘faking’ lesbianism and attempts to ‘change’ a woman’s sexuality to better suit the man’s own desires.

In everyday social settings, the hyper-sexualisation of lesbians permeates into different scenarios. Sure, it’s men on dating apps, it’s celebrities, it’s TV and film. It’s two straight girls drunkenly slobbering over each other and giggling about how ‘crazy’ they are. And I don’t mention this to place blame on intoxicated, often young girls, they’re not the main problem. The problem is that it’s more than that.

It’s queer women being more likely to experience sexual assault in tertiary settings in NZ. It’s queer women being more likely to experience rape in tertiary settings in NZ. It’s the fact that despite the sexual orientation of these women, according to the NZFVC, 88.6% of offenders are male, reflecting broader issues of gender-based violence and emphasising the specific risks faced by queer women. What these statistics highlight is the heightened vulnerability of queer women in educational environments, where safety and support should be a priority.

These realities underscore our urgent need for societal change in order to protect queer women from systemic prejudices. Only by addressing these harmful perceptions and promoting genuine representation can we hope to create a safer environment for everyone, because this should be a problem in the first place.

What TF is going Sexual Health

It’s time to have a chat about the birds and the bees. But more specifically, the uncomfortable and sometimes smelly issues that may arise when getting with birds or bees. And no, this is not the kind of chat where your B.O smelling P.E teacher tells you how to put a condom on, this is about sexual health, to just see how everything’s going. And to be honest with you, there are a couple of things to worry about.

I took a wander to the sexual health clinic neatly bestowed beside Upper Riccarton’s favourite liquor store, to ask them what the hell is going on at the moment. And there’s one prominent concern: Syphilis – an infectious, stealthy and serious STI.

The Riccarton Sexual Health Clinic in Christchurch has seen a significant increase in STI diagnoses and patient presentations from 2018 to 2023, with a 64% increase in STI diagnoses from 2021 to 2023. This rise correlates with a 60% increase in overall patient presentations, which includes patients visiting the clinic for various health issues. Practice Co-Ordinator Kim Sampson, said they have noted a “significant increase in syphilis over the last couple of years, and are definitely treating more people than previously.” A peak in syphilis diagnoses last occurred in 2019, and with the current increase in patients suffering from this STI, they “are testing more people for Syphilis by prompting them to have blood tests as well,” Sampson said. Syphilis is largely diagnosed by blood tests, but many people only have self-collected swabs and urine tests when getting an STI test. However, these test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea, not for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis which can be found by having a blood test.

But what the hell is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a sketchy STI that begins with painless sores, often on your junk or mouth. It can lead to serious health problems if ignored, like brain and organ damage. The biggest problem is, symptoms can take up to 90 days to show, if at all. So it is awfully easy to spread and contract it without any knowledge at all. Syphilis spreads mainly through unprotected sex; including oral, vaginal, and anal. Complications of syphilis are significant, with the possibility to cause permanent visual loss and hearing loss if not

treated early. As well as this, pregnant women can pass it on to their babies resulting in stillbirth or congenital syphilis infection. Anyone who is sexually active can get it, but it’s more common among men who have sex with men (MSM). Condoms only partially protect against syphilis, but since it can spread from external sores – no one is 100% safe. Regular testing is the real hero here, catching and treating syphilis early to halt its sneaky spread. Luckily, syphilis is treatable with antibiotics, usually penicillin. But the sooner you get treated, the better.

The Burnett Foundation Aotearoa - formerly the New Zealand AIDS Foundation, leads efforts to end HIV transmission and support those affected. They have also noticed a rise of syphilis in MSM. They offer HIV testing, counselling, advocacy, and education, promoting sexual health and reducing stigma for the LGBTQ+ community through research and outreach. Here in Otautahi, their centre on Cashel Street provides free and confidential sexual health testing for MSM and their sexual networks. These legends pour their time and effort into making sex safer for everyone, and they possess similar concerns about the rise in syphilis.

Gynaecologist and Sexual Health Physician, Anne Robertson, said the increase in syphilis cases is a worldwide issue, post COVID-19, as is for other STIs. And although the symptoms are discrete, they can be incredibly harmful.

“[Syphilis] is often called the great masquerader or mimicker, and testing for syphilis can be overlooked. When it does cause symptoms, it can mimic a wide range of other clinical conditions.”

Robertson said global travel and mixing of sexual networks contribute to the increases in syphilis prevalence, but it is still treatable with your general antibiotic, penicillin.

So what’s the problem?

“Not enough sexual health services”, Robertson said. A lot of STI management can occur in primary care, youth health, and family planning clinics. However, Robertson says syphilis management often requires “higher level advice.”

going on with Health in NZ?

“Syphilis test results require interpretation because of some interactions with other antibodies and infections, and are not as straightforward as the positive and negative results of say gonorrhoea and chlamydia. Testing of the latter are often delegated to health care assistants and peer workers.”

Robertson explains that when syphilis first made a “comeback”, it was easier to define “at risk” sub-populations for targeted testing.

“Now that syphilis is occurring in all genders and ages, but still less common than gonorrhoea and chlamydia, it makes it harder to give recommendations on who and how often people should be tested.”

Robertson said if one reads historical accounts of royalty and the wealthy over the last couple of centuries, sexual health practices may not have changed that much.

“But the way people meet is different and our sexual and social networks are geographically larger.”

In the early days of the HIV epidemic and before good medications became available, fear increased condom use and reduced the incidence of STIs. Robertson said, “we have gone back to what it was like prior to the discovery of HIV.”

She also noted the increase of STIs at time of war and disasters, which she notes “our world is very unsettled now.”

So how we can we prevent the further increase of syphilis?

Use condoms and get tested. It’s as simple as that.

Head of Services and Outreach at the Burnett Foundation, Rodrigo Olin, acknowledges the challenges surrounding accessing care in Otautahi and nationwide. Stigma manifests in discussion of STIs, and with men having sex with men, the issues don’t stop at stigma.

“[MSM] might not be out or feel comfortable disclosing their sexuality to their doctor, the prohibitive cost of a doctor’s

appointment, or even finding a GP who is taking new patients”, Olin said.

Olin passes on the most important things to remember when people are trying to be healthy as sexual beings.

“Talk openly about sex, sexual health, and wellbeing helps to combat [the] stigma, which in turn encourages more people to access testing, treatment, and care. We also recommend testing for HIV and STIs regularly and finding prevention methods that work for you like condoms, PrEP, or having an undetectable viral load [people living with HIV on effective treatment cannot pass HIV to their sexual partners].”

Burnett Foundation Te Toka Centre in Cashel Street provides free and confidential sexual health testing for MSM and their sexual networks. They also offer a pop-up testing clinic at the University of Canterbury on the first Tuesday afternoon of every month - go visit!

Stigma can play a role in why people aren’t getting tested for STIs as often as they should be. Source: The Burnett Foundation.

Elsie Williams (she/her)

Hooked on Hook - Up Culture

Human sexuality and the discussions we have on it are nothing new. But lately, with younger generations it is more acceptable to openly talk about. While many challenge the definition of ‘sex’ and what it encompasses, the fundamentals of it can be very different for each person who chooses to experiment.

So, let’s talk about sex. Casual sex, more specifically.

“Casual sex refers to sexual activities between individuals who are not in a committed or romantic relationship. Usually more about physical pleasure and enjoyment, casual sex is less about emotional intimacy and is usually without the expectation of a long-term relationship,” said Jacqui Olliver.

Olliver, the Founder of Psychosexual Alignment, regularly educates the public on real-life sex experiences and personal development. Through our connecting online, Olliver touched on the common misconceptions that are often linked with casual sex and hook-up culture, particularly the negative ones.

“Common misconceptions about casual sex include the belief that it is inherently harmful or immoral, that those who engage in it lack self-respect, and that it prevents the formation of meaningful relationships. These stigmas often overlook the fact that many people can have casual sex while maintaining healthy emotional well-being and forming deep connections in other areas of their lives,” Olliver said.

This is a refreshing and interesting take, as in society the opinions of others can be extremely detrimental to people’s hauora. This is no different to the way sex is viewed, and how it can demonise and cause erratic judgement - especially towards women.

“I think that hook-up culture is slightly looked down on, especially with women which makes me feel sad because it’s not something that is shameful or embarrassing and does not make you ‘dirty’ or a ‘slut’”, said M.G (she/her).

“Women may face stigma for engaging in casual sex, especially across different cultures where they might be judged more harshly and seen as less desirable for long-term relationships,” said Maxi Xie, a certified Sex Counsellor and Sex Therapist.

There are also conversations to be had about casual sex in

the Rainbow community.

“In Queer culture, particularly in Gay communities, stereotypes based on assignment roles also exist. Recently, the term ‘side’ has become popular and trendy, indicating someone who enjoys sexual activities that does not involve penetration,” said Xie.

Casual sex, including its benefits and implications, has inserted its agenda in many television shows over the years. One of the most popular being the hit 90’s romantic-drama ‘Sex and the City’. Through the main female characters, particularly Samantha Jones, the show presents a sexpositive narrative around women seeking pleasure that isn’t always of a long-term nature. While it has its controversial moments, and rather aggravated portrayal of men, ‘Sex and the City’ is unapologetic, and really shines a light on how casual sex can be fresh and fun.

Seeing this kind of lifestyle, amongst others, on the screen can be beneficial for those who don’t think their wants and needs are universal. I know that personally I enjoy seeing the turbulent actions of complex characters in television.

“I think casual sex is shown more frequently online and on TV probably because people tend to be more open-minded and accepting,” said Olive (she/her).

Due to the rising popularity of dating apps and shows like ‘Love Island’ and ‘Too Hot To Handle’, hook-up culture is easy to get involved in if one has the means.

“The hook-up culture has really exploded, and the likes of Tinder, and Bumble and Hinge […] obviously there are a lot more options for people, and it’s a lot more accessible for people… More dating shows, and ‘trashy’ reality shows nowadays than there were, say, ten years ago,” said Tania (she/her).

However, it is clear through talking with young adults who have engaged in hook-up culture themselves, that many have progressive views on the topic.

“Casual sex can be great when the right boundaries are set, with clear expectations and communication. Hook-up culture is a big thing these days as less young adults are settling down with long-term partners,” said A.L (he/him).

M.G had similar thoughts when asked to address the matter,

Olivia Welsh (she/her)

stating that, “I am pro casual sex and hook-up culture. I believe that people should have the freedom to engage in consensual and safe sex practices if they want to.”

While perception and acceptance are hugely discussed topics related to casual sex, it is the education and spreading of factually correct knowledge that must be addressed firsthand. Without it, people, including high school and university students, will be unaware of the precautions that should be taken to ensure they are having safe sex.

“I find that most students have a lot of gaps in their knowledge, so I encourage people to have an open mind and be willing to learn off others,” said Rachael Dixon, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Canterbury.

Dixon, who is situated within the School of Health Sciences, has researched and taught multiple courses around sexuality and contemporary health issues.

“For me, for all of my classes but especially this one [Sexualities Education], a safe and supportive learning environment is critical. So, I set that up from the outset. Thus, students respect each other’s different perspectives,” said Dixon.

“Our UC students are very good in this regard.”

From communicating with individuals who are experts in the field of sex and relationships, there have been some challenges pointed out regarding approaching sex in a casual manner. These include the potential misleading and mixed messages that can be perceived by partners, a lack of knowledge around safe-sex practices and hook-up culture leading people to view intimacy as a transactional deal.

The fear of slut-shaming, the possibility of over-sexualisation and development of a sex addiction have come up in conversation as well.

But there are benefits that should not be overlooked despite the potential implications. Casual sex allows people to get to know what they like and don’t like when it comes to physical intimacy and offers the ability to learn and practice open communication within more adult situations. Having sex can be a form of self-expression that helps develop self-identity around sexuality and gender.

Plus, it can feel good.

Sex isn’t always about the long-term arrangement and can be a way to blow off steam and change up the trajectory of one’s life.

“When your body functions properly, casual sex can release beneficial hormones like oxytocin, which promotes feelings of connection. This allows individuals to experience intimacy without the effort and stress involved in maintaining committed relationships,” said Olliver, regarding why sex may be sought out.

With a shift in what is deemed acceptable topics of conversation, openly discussing sex has become more prevalent, especially amongst younger adults. This could be due to how it is presented in media and entrainment. With society wanting to share insights on other heavy topics, like STIs, abortion, and systemic issues within the LGBTQIA+ community, casual sex is just another way of expression.

When it comes to discussing sex, and promoting the education of it, there are various ways to ensure all types of individuals are being included. However, it is important to remember that there is no ‘normal’ or ‘best’ way to go about it.

“There is no one-size-fits-all approach to promoting sex education, especially in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. Sex education should be culturally sensitive and affirming, engaging with different cultural professionals, and communities to understand their unique needs and preferences,” said Xie.

“Educators act as gateways for those seeking answers, and positive attitude is crucial.

If they don’t know something, they should openly admit it.”

In the end, everyone is different. It is perfectly fine to have sexual encounters on a casual and frequent basis with whomever you want, so long as it’s safe and consensual. It’s also fine to only want sex with a partner you’re in an emotionally intimate relationship with, or to not want to have sex at all.

As trends come and go, it is important to remain true to yourself, and only do as much, or as little, as you’re comfortable with.

Sex in Music Women Reclaiming Their Sexy Back

Elsie Williams (she/her)

Content Warning: This article discusses sexual violence and harm against women.

Sex and music: a duo as old as time, as inseparable as peanut butter and jelly, or perhaps more aptly - as scandalous as rock ‘n’ roll and rebellion. While Elvis’ hips may have once been the height of controversy, today’s music scene sees female artists taking the reins and redefining what it means to be sexy on their own terms, rather than letting a rapper have their say.

I’ll never forget strutting around my living room as a freshly 9-yearold after watching MTV and singing “like a virgin, touched for the very first time.” The shock on my mum’s face was a look that haunts me to this day, and the telling off, despite me not knowing what for, now makes a lot of sense. Despite stirring controversy in its time in 1984, the lyrics remain relatively tame by today’s standards.

Gone are the days of subtle innuendos; now, bold lyrics and unapologetic confidence are the new norm.

In the early days of pop and rock, sexual themes were wrapped up in metaphors and coy suggestions. Take The Beatles’ cheeky “Why Don’t We Do It in the Road?” (1968). With lyrics like, “Why don’t we do it in the road? / No one will be watching us,” they managed to make a scandalous suggestion sound almost innocent. Fast forward to the late 20th century, and artists like Janet Jackson and Salt-N-Pepa were turning up the heat. Jackson’s “Any Time, Any Place” (1993) sizzles with lines like, “I don’t care who’s around / No, no, no, no,” while Salt-N-Pepa’s “Shoop” (1993) gets straight to the point with “Wanna thank your mother for a butt like that.” These trailblazers combined infectious beats with bold messages of sexual empowerment and safe sex, redefining the landscape of music and sexuality.

Despite these strides, the music industry has long been marred by lyrics that objectify women, especially in bops that have a funky beat, but a darker meaning. Songs like The Rolling Stones’ “Brown Sugar” (1971) and Justin Timberlake’s “SexyBack” (2006) exemplify how catchy tunes can mask troubling messages. These tracks, while popular, perpetuate harmful stereotypes and normalise the objectification of women. ‘Brown Sugar’s’ vibrant chord progression and toe-tapping drum beat disguises the dark lyrical storytelling of African slave woman being r*ped in the American deep south.

In the world of contemporary music, some tracks stand out not just for their beats but for lyrics that stir controversy more than they hit the charts. Consider Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” (2013), where the distinction between flirtation and objectification becomes as hazy as a late-night text. Critics argued that its lyrics and video reduced women to mere objects of desire, igniting a fiery debate about consent and respect in pop culture.

Meanwhile, Kanye West’s “Gold Digger” (2005) turns stereotypes on their head, portraying women as money-hungry opportunists, echoing age-old clichés with a modern twist. These songs aren’t just catchy tunes; they’re cultural flashpoints, sparking important conversations about gender dynamics, power play, and where entertainment crosses into exploitation.

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in how female artists approach sexuality in their music. Maybe it’s a coming of age kind of thing, and it finally sinking in the explicitness of lyrics, but the tone around woman as sexual beings feels a lot more selfproclaimed and oozes more confidence than ever before. Today’s artists are not merely subjects of male desire but active agents of their own sexual narratives.

Chappell Roan is known for her unapologetically bold style, with songs like “Pink Pony Club” celebrating queer identity and sexual freedom. Her recent surge into the pop charts has trickled

queerness and sexy music the industry. Roan sneaks in some naughty lyrics and references to queer love, “I heard you like magic, I’ve got a wand and a rabbit, so baby, let’s get freaky, get kinky, let’s make this bed get squeaky!” Isn’t it fun to sing about sex in a way that is empowering rather than derogatory?

One of many Disney channel legends, Sabrina Carpenter, is currently transitioning into an A-list popstar, rebranding from the ‘Girl Meets World’ actress to a beacon of pure class. The release of her last album solidified her step away from a childlike character, entering her into the world of a fully-fledged adult who enjoys the pleasures involved in intimacy. In “Nonsense,” she sings, “I’m talkin’ hope nobody knocks / I’m talkin’ opposite of soft / I’m talkin’ wild, wild thoughts,” alluding to her sexual appetite behind closed doors. To keep things fresh and fun, she even changes the lyrics of the outro at every show, giving fans a unique experience each time and even saucier content related to her life at the current moment.

Another queer baddie, Victoria Monét, very rarely shies away from expressing her sexual desires in pop music. The 2024 grammy best new artist seamlessly blends sensuality with empowerment in tracks like “Jaguar,” where she boldly declares, “Supersonic pussycat / Just like a jaguar, silky black / So let me climb your wood like that / You got nine times to come hit that.” These lyrics, while explicit, represent a significant shift in the portrayal of women’s sexuality in music due to Monét’s unabashed celebration of her desires, challenging the historical norms of women being passive or subdued in their sexual expressions. Plus, she’s queer and proud about it, saying in an interview that “music has been a playground for sexuality.”

“And some things I don’t even express in words will just come out in music because it’s on my spirit and soul to do so.”

Jenny Stevens, NME’s deputy news editor, insightfully observed that “music and sex have always been intertwined, reflecting the timeless truth that human experience is inherently sensual and has been, and always will be, expressed through art.”

This reflection is now richer and more inclusive, amplifying women’s diverse experiences and voices in ways that challenge traditional stereotypes predisposed of through generational views of woman.

Dr. Victoria Williamson, a noted music psychologist, told the magazine ‘Stylist’, that “Women often react more critically to sexual lyrics when reading them, but their attitudes soften when they listen or watch them in music videos.” This disparity suggests that visual and auditory contexts play crucial roles in how sexual content is perceived, underscoring the nuanced relationship between media consumption and societal attitudes toward female sexuality. When female artists control their artistic vision, they redefine perceptions from mere objectification to empowered self-expression.

As listeners, it’s imperative to embrace and support this evolution, recognising the transformative impact of these artists on both artistic expression and societal norms. They are not just making music; they are pioneering a new era where women’s sexuality is celebrated, respected, and unapologetically embraced.

This exploration goes beyond a mere historical account; it’s a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of equality in artistic expression. Whether through the provocative beats of Cardi B or the ‘HOT TO GO’ dance from Chappell, these women are leading a revolution in music—one that celebrates diversity, challenges stereotypes, and reshapes our understanding of what it means to be sexy in the 21st century.

Sex position Olympics Canta’s 2024 Sex position Olympics

I will never quite forget my first Canta content meeting. It was a chilly Tuesday and I had mished from Tupu to join the rest of the team to discuss the upcoming sex mag…. super chill topic to start on. It was only slightly daunting to be discussing everything condoms and casual sex over my morning coffee. Nonetheless, as Sabrina Carpenter said, my ‘give-a-fucks’ were on vacation. I pitched a rather daring idea: Canta’s 2023 sex position Olympics.

I don’t wish to be cocky (pun intended), but the article garnered more interest than expected. The news even managed to spread to Tauranga, greeting the ears of my lovely and classy mother! Explaining the content of my first article was a unique and awkward type of conversation I would rather not repeat.

So, Canta thought it might be appropriate to bring back the Olympics for a second year. If you are a die-hard missionary fan looking to add a bit of pizzazz to pound town, or you wanna hear your cowgirl ‘Yehaww’ with pleasure, keep on reading…

Stand and deliver

Let the Olympics COMMENCE!

This bent standing position could be considered doggy’s more versatile and sophisticated older sister. One partner is bent over 90 degrees, stabilising themselves upon something, with the other partner thrusting from behind, literally “stand-and-delivering.”

Anonymous sex lover DickedDown69 says that the position is “perfect a quickie” eliminating the faff of washing sheets or cleaning up. Who has time for that sort of admin with these hectic uni schedules?

Maybe you enjoy doing the devil’s tango in different locations? Well, well, well, this position is exactly what you need in your life. Where the position loses points for impressiveness, it gains in approachability. The receiving partner can hold onto anything and perform the action anywhere! Kitchen countertops, public places (wink), dining room tables, even holding onto another person’s legsif adding another person to the mix is ya thing.

Like risk or spicing up your choice of location? Give the “Stand-andDeliver” a go. It is great practice for those pesky uni presentations!

The Pretzel Dip

Despite the food-inspired name, this position does not involve food. However, if you are into that, give that a whirl! The receiving partner, lays on their side. The other partner, the giver, faces them, straddling their bottom leg whilst keeping their torso upright. The partner on the bottom bends their knee of their top leg. The legs are knotted together, genitals aligned.

This position gains points for how deep the giving partner can thrust (shit yea boi) and the intimacy that is created through exchanging eye contact. Anonymous person Bl0wjobB4ddie mentions that the position is “sexy as” and that the stimulation is “so deep.” Not only this, but if you enjoy incorporating a vibrator into the mix for dual stimulation, go crazy. Clinical sexologist, Ness Cooper, comments on

how good the position is for the lower back with “the knotted legs act[ing] as its own infrastructure to support the act.” This is great for if the receiving partner usually has a pillow under their back during sex for support #comfortiskey.

So, don’t get your knickers in a twist, get your legs in a twist! Give this baddie a go.

The Double Trouble

If you are into trouble, you have come to the right place! This position involves one partner laying on their back with the other partner straddling one of the other partners legs - I hope that makes sense. From this point, one can grind on the other person’s leg, finger each other, or stimulate breasts and other erotic areas. This position gains its name because two people are involved in the giving and the receiving - double the fun!

The Double Trouble does not require penetration to get off… anybody can do it! Not only this, but it is far more personable and intimate than the likes of the “stand-and-deliver”; great for helping each partner feel closer to each other. Anonymous sex lover Pussypleaser100 mentions that this position is “extremely intimate” but gives the participant “hella bad hand cramp” when trying to finger her partner. Not great if you are trying to have that stamina to cross the finish line.

So, if you are not satisfied with just one form of pleasure…. time to see double!

So, there we have it for this year’s Olympics: quite the battle if I do say so myself. Of course, sex and whatever positions you like, well, the ultimate competition winner is truly up to you. Get experimental, be brave, and don’t be afraid to try something a bit different.

One last thing, if you know my mother, maybe just don’t mention I wrote this… let’s just keep this article between us. You guys are the best.

Cheers lol, Ella

Ella Paterson (she/her)

Canta's Sex Survey Canta's Sex Survey

We asked the sexy freaks of UC what they get up to under the sheets. Here is what you said!

Have you done the deed?

Rugby

Muscular

Have you boned on campus?

Central Library

Jacking off in Jack Erskine

Library Maker Space

Ernest Rutherford disabled toilets

Foundry bathrooms

Law carpark

Engcore Postgrad rooms and Haere-roa bathrooms during tea party tehe

Romantic

The place you get $2 rice, snuck in there after close and got put on all fours over the register

Go-to porn category?

Erotic literature

Whatever comes up on pornhub homepage

Twink

BBC

Creampie

Girthmaster

Lesbian

Hentai

Sadomasochism bondage

Craziest sex story?

One time a guy told me to "ride it or leave" so I left

Anal

Amateur

Threesome

I hate the porn industry

Facesitting

Single mother of 2

I accidentally aimed the cum shot back into his mouth when I was trying not to swallow

Minion room tupo iykyk...

Situationships best friend had a thing for me so they asked me for a threesome. Obviously said yes for the #plot. The plot was taken too far and I unknowingly gave them both chlamydia. At least they had something extra to bond over afterwards

Worked on a super yacht and hooked up with the 35 year old divorced engineer in a customers room

He said after we started we had to stop because he didn't like small dicks (I'm bang on average)

A tinder hookup pulled condoms out of a thomas the tank engine lunch box tin and told me it was his primary school lunch bag, put it to good use I guess

Guy I was sleeping with off and on would whisper under his breath to piss on him almost everytime we had sex

One of us had diarrhoea mid sex

He fucked my legs then told me to get plan B

Said I love you for the first time during sex, did not get a response. Apparently that's not the vibe

Once had sex with a guy who I had a thing with and it ended up popping an ovarian bubble and I had to go to hospital to get it checked out

Worst sex story?

Got so so stoned with the guy I was seeing, had sex and mixed up my words and told him to cum on my dick. He played along and told me to cum in his pussy though so king

Toilet paper stuck to her cooch, it was yellow

This guy wanted me to hump his leg like a dog

Sex work with a 55 year old man, so gross

His mum texted him on snapchat half way through and said "hunny can you please quiet down"

Getting a $50 uber out to Lincoln after mono in first year to find out the poor guy had a micropenis

Cantabury Tales

Welcome to a new column where we respond to a tale submitted by one of you and attempt to give advice. Want us to respond to your tale? Email us at editor@canta.co.nz.

Dear Canta,

I need your help. Recently I had an experience where one of my best friends who is also my flatmate made a move on my partner.

My bf rejected her and told me immediately, but she hasn’t said anything to me. How do I confront her?

Love, GG

Dear GG,

That is so sucky, I am really sorry that happened to you! It is such an awful situation but I am glad your boyfriend didn’t lie to you and told you the truth.

In terms of your friend, if you need closure and are the type of person that likes to talk through their problems to feel better about it all –reach out to them and have a chat. But if not, fair enough. Set those boundaries and make sure you stick to them. It is always best to confront it quickly so you don’t let it fester.

In saying that, make sure you think about what you say – you don’t want to regret what you have said in the heat of the moment.

Hope it gets better!

Love,

Canta

8:30am - 5:30pm

Canta Purity Test

Caution: This is not a bucket list. Tick what you've done, your score is what's left.

1. Held hands romantically? 2. Been on a date at a UC cafe? 3. Been in a relationship? 4. Danced without leaving room for the UCSA President? 5. Kissed a flatmate?

6. Did an all nighter in engcore? 7. French kissed your neighbour? 8. French kissed in public? 9. Kissed on the neck? 10. Kissed a mate while drunk? 11. Given or received a hickey?

12. Kissed or been kissed on the boob?

13. Kissed someone below the belt?

14. Kissed someone in the UCSA toilets?

15. Played a game involving stripping?

16. Stripped at a flat party?

17. Masturbated?

18. Masturbated to a picture or video?

19. Masturbated while someone else was in the room?

20. Been caught masturbating?

21. Masturbated with an inanimate object?

22. Watched porn as a flat?

23. Committed an act of floorcest?

24. Dry humped?

25. Undressed or been undressed sexually?

26. Pissed the bed while at uni?

27. Fondled or had your butt cheeks fondled?

28. Fondled or had your breasts fondled?

29. Tickled or been tickled at the balls?

30. Had or given "blue balls"?

31. Had an orgasm due to someone else's manipulation?

32. Faked an orgasm?

33. Sent or received sexually explicit photographs?

34. Fucked a flatmate?

35. Cheated on a significant other during a relationship?

36. Purchased contraceptives at the UC pharmacy?

37. Gave oral sex?

38. Had a crush on a flatmate?

39. Ingested someone else's genital secretion?

40. Used a sex toy with a partner?

41. Spent the night with a MPS?

42. Been walked in on while engaging in sex?

43. Kicked a roommate out to have sex?

44. Snuck into a UC event?

45. Done a yardie?

46. Been drunk before 8am?

47. Been drunk in a lecture?

48. Bought alcohol into a lecture?

49. Caught vaping in the library?

50. Used marijuana?

51. Attended a BYO at Zyka?

52. Been kicked out of a BYO?

53. Pulled a red card?

54. Fell off a lime scooter?

55. Urinated on campus (not in a toilet)?

56. Gone skinny-dipping in the Ilam Stream?

57. Gone streaking?

58. Vomited on campus?

59. Had the police called on you?

60. Been questioned by UCSA Security?

61. Got a fine for drinking on the street?

62. Had the police handcuff you?

63. Been arrested?

64. Been kicked out of a UCSA event?

65. Accused of using AI on an assessment?

66. Wanked on campus?

67. Had sexual intercourse?

68. Had sexual intercourse on campus?

69. Heard your flatmate having sex?

70. Given or recieved a footjob?

71. Had sex with someone you met at a UCSA event?

72. Done the walk of shame across Ilam fields?

73. Had sex at tea party?

74. Had sexual intercourse in public?

75. Had a sex related injury?

76. Had a crush on an RA?

77. Had sex up the port hills?

78. Had noise control called on your flat?

79. Taken a poo at a flat party?

80. Gone on a lucky dip date?

81. Finished a crate?

82. Finished a coffin?

83. Finished nitro hands?

84. Crashed a lime scooter?

85. Had an STI test due to reasonable suspicion?

86. Had an STI?

87. Had a threesome?

88. Attended an orgy?

89. Fucked two or more people from one flat?

90. Flat with your ex?

91. Made a sex tape?

92. Had period sex?

93. Had anal sex?

94. Had sex in a flat shower?

95. Impregnated someone or been impregnated?

96. Paid or been paid for nudes?

97. Fantasised about a lecturer?

98. Got with a good friends sibling?

99. Found a rat in the flat?

100. Stuck Canta up on a wall in your house?

Thin is in! Keeping Women Skinny.

Content Warning: Discussion of body image and weight trends.

In an Ozempic-fueled return to the 90’s, the cult of thinness has inched its way back into the trend cycle, and Kate Moss, 90’s thinness and ‘heroin chic’ have regained traction in the public consciousness. After a decade of body positivity movements and fuller figures trending, it feels like the trend cycles which bastardise women’s bodies and turn them into digestible, consumable ideals, have returned to their one true north: thinness.

“Thin is always in”, according to one UC Psych student, Sakura Ward. “Every other trend comes and goes like a fad. Fatness is never trending for long.” And as thinness edges its way back onto the main stage, some women question whether it ever really left. Recently, the 2000’s fashion renaissance has revived the skinny cult of the era. Kim Kardashian notoriously dropped 15 pounds in three weeks for the MET Gala, Hollywood celebrities are proudly using - read: abusing, the diabetic drug Ozempic to lose weight quickly, and young stars like Lily-Rose Depp and Jenna Ortega have even repopularised cigarettes - the preferred prop and balanced meal of every grungy, tiny, ‘90’s model.

In true Madison Montgomery fashion, “Surprise, b****.” Thin is back, with vengeance. One TikTok creator, Beth Prendergast, even theorised that “every time women get too powerful, the skinny trend re-emerges to keep us all too tired to create or vote”, and with body trends so firmly embedded in the media of our daily lives, the skinny trend to ‘tired-andpassive woman’ pipeline has real merit.

Although body trends do cycle naturally, historically, whenever women make significant social advancements, thinness trends shortly after.

As humans, we don’t like change. Actually, we resist it pretty instinctively, and the patriarchy is particularly consumed with maintaining traditional values and heavily restricting social change. So much so, that ironclad, patriarchal systems manage to correct themselves, whenever ‘too-much’ change takes place. This phenomenon, of traditional values

becoming significantly more common after times of upheaval, is highly characteristic of patriarchal systems, and it seems that body trends follow a similar pattern when the social-order of gender roles is threatened.

Thinness trends follow a pattern, a pattern that reflects decades of women’s liberation, and four distinct waves of feminism. In the 1920’s, the decade of first-wave feminism introduced unprecedented political emancipation, as many women became eligible to vote. With Aotearoa already well ahead, British women gained the right to vote in 1918, and American women attained the vote soon after in 1920. In the flapper era that followed, very slender, very androgynous figures gained overnight popularity, and as women slowly gained more independence and bodily autonomy, they lost autonomy over determining what their own bodies should look like. Sharp collar bones and defined hips were the trend of the day, and newly liberated women were still constricted by social trends and diets.

In the 1930’s and early 40’s, women advanced greatly in the workplace, gaining the new ability to work freely outside the home due to war necessity. The era promoted an idealised hourglass figure, featured on every ‘Rosie the Riveter’ poster, with a slim waist, prominent bust, and slender legs. In an era of scarcity, calorie counting grew massively popular during the war, and working women remained subject to the thin ideal.

Then in the 1950’s, when women’s liberation was largely neglected in favour of the white picket fence, nuclear family, and the perfect housewife - thinness trends relaxed. Curves were the craze of the 1950s, following the enormous popularity of Hollywood ‘sex-symbols’, like Marilyn Monroe and Jayne Mansfield. Weight gain supplements were popularised, and hyper-thin androgyny was dismissed as a relic of the Gatsby-era.

In 1960, women’s rights advanced hugely again when the pill was approved for public use, giving women unprecedented bodily autonomy. Just three years later, Jean Nidetch

Amy Riach (She/her)

would found Weight Watchers. In 1973, Roe v Wade was passed, and the following decade was dominated by sexual freedom and second-wave feminism. In response, slender, athletic bodies overtook the 1970s, as women became more empowered. Flat stomachs, and very slim hips, were emphasised for women. Once again, women were making huge social advancements, and thin was very much in.

In the 1990s, third-wave feminism emerged as an intersectional backlash to the second-wave's perceived privileging of white, straight women. As a countermovement to the fitness craze of the ‘80s, the ‘heroin chic' body type was introduced as a gritty alternative. Thin, waifish bodies were the gold-standard of fashion, and Kate Moss rose to huge cultural prominence. Emaciation was trending, which led to a dramatic spike in liposuction procedures. Thirdwave feminism, which emphasised intersectionality, was immediately countered by thin body ideals which catered to white women, and Ward said, “it’s always about race. White women chose what features to glamourise, and ditch them, as soon as the trend shifts”.

The 2000’s that follow are dominated by tabloid covers, low-rise bottoms, and very thin women. During the height of tabloid consumption, celebrity bodies were heavily criticised. Then in the 2010s, more ‘relaxed’, curvy bodies came back into trend. However, social media introduced a new era of comparative beauty standards for women. Body trends permeated all platforms of media, and local high-school teacher Paula says, “rather than being restricted to magazines

and TV, impossible body trends are everywhere now. And it’s impacting younger and younger girls”. “Slim-thick” hourglass bodies were the new craze, dominating all platform media, and celebrities who got liposuction in the 90’s were now receiving procedures to add that fat right back in.

Now, body trends once again bear the impact of modern liberation. Fourth-wave feminism dominated the last decade, and the consequential shift in the ‘ideal’ body type is already evident. Low rise jeans are back, and the notorious Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show has returned. As women continue to make significant advancements socially, skinny continues to cycle back, and it seems the TikTok scholarship has some real merit.

According to Paula, “I think the beauty industry has a lot to answer for. You’re constantly bombarded with unrealistic images”, and this 2024 infatuation with early 2000s culture has not only reintroduced fashion trends, but has also reintroduced the same intrusive body-shaming trends of the decade.

Club Corner Club Corner Thursdays in Black

Tell us a bit about your club!

Thursdays in Black has a focus on ending rape and domestic violence on campuses. The overarching purpose of our club, which is to advocate, bring awareness and aid, means we get involved in events such as the Pink Ribbon Breakfast we participated in for semester 2!

Promote your club to a newbie, how would you sell it?

If you want to get involved in something meaningful then our club is one of the clubs to join! Being part of this club means connecting with like-minded lovely people and taking part in events that make genuine impact, like our What I Was Wearing exhibition, as well as fun events, such as our upcoming Sex Quiz (buy tickets in our Instagram bio;)).

What are some events and activities you have planned for the year?

We have the Sex Quiz coming up on the 14th of August (tickets in the Instagram bio ! Seriously!!) and we are currently in discussion for a couple more events with other clubs! We’d love to be able to say we have more events set in stone but you might just have to watch our Instagram to see what happens with the rest of the year. How can people get involved? In our Linktree, there is a sign up form for those who want to join the club and get notified of events via an emailing list. If you’re interested in joining the executive team for 2025, keep a lookout in the next couple of months

Flat Famous Flat Famous

Nickname: ��️aleb

Worst Habit: Not getting his 5+ a day

Favourite Flat Meal: Adam

Nickname: Mr. Boof

Worst Habit: Public Indecency

Favourite Flat Meal: Charcuterie boards

Nickname: Fritter

Worst Habit: Ice cream in bed

Favourite Flat Meal: A bag

Nickname: P Money

Worst Habit: His ufc record

Favourite Flat Meal:

Nickname: Dog Sl*t Worst Habit: Eating his textbooks Favourite Flat Meal: Sausages

Caleb

Luke #1

Luke #

Hamish

Adam

GCs of the Week

Introducing the newest column in Canta, GC of the Week – written by The GC in collaboration with Canta. Here, the GC celebrates everything, featuring individuals who’ve not only managed to be hilariously funny in their day-to-day lives but have also spread a positive impact throughout university.

Nominations

Jake is known for his wild ideas and even wilder follow-throughs. One night, after a heated debate within the flat about how many McDonald's cheeseburgers a person could realistically eat in one sitting, Jake decided to put his money where his mouth was. Fueled by booze and bravado, he claimed he would down 15 cheeseburgers to prove his point.

His mates laughed in his face, but for Jake a man of determination and pure will, he was dead serious. They all piled into the Mazda-rati and headed to the nearest Maccas to purchase the 15 cheeseburgers which would make him a hero or zero. Back at the flat, surrounded by a cheering crowd, Jake started began his mission.

The first ten went down a treat with a speights summit being the perfect chaser, the next five however were where the real struggle began, and by the time he hit the last lot, Jake was moving slower but never broke a sweat. With determination and a quick trip to the lawn for power chunder, he had mowed through all 15 cheeseburgers, his mates' disbelief turning into cheers of triumph.

Jake not only proved he is a man of his word; but became a legend. He spent the rest of the night lying on the couch, groaning and cradling his stomach, but

GC of the Week

Sam

Sam is known for his laid-back attitude and functional allergy to anything uni-related occurring before 11 am. This week, however, his late wakeups finally caught up to him ripping the classic lecture mix-up. On a rough Friday morning, still grogged from the night before, Sam strolled into what he thought was his Engineering lecture. He settled into a seat near the back, pulled out his notebook, and prepared for another round of fluid dynamics.

A couple of minutes in, Sam started to realize something was off. The lecturer, who he’d never seen before, jumping deep into the realm of Robotics 482. Panicking slightly, a quick timetable check confirmed his dread: he’d gone to the wrong f*cking class. For most people the fake phone call would be the old reliable, but for Sam, he heroically decided it was too late for him. Even the thought of standing up and drawing attention to himself made him sick, so the executive decision was made to sit through a full two hours of robotics lectures - even throwing the occasional nod to not look out of place.

Despite attending more wrong lectures than right ones in his first week back, Sam believes that it’s the thought that counts. It happens to the best of us and hope in week two he can finally get the routine on lock.

CANTA

England V Spain – It did not in fact come home

It was that time of year when the English football fans rose from the dead to chant “it’s coming home” one more time. Last time we heard it was the World Cup, this time around it was the Euros.

Unfortunately, England’s men’s team were unable to end 58 years of pain. They were beaten 2 – 1 by Spain in an epic final, which saw Spain win in the last four minutes of the game, making it the country’s fourth European Championship win. The side have also gone through the entirety of the tournament with seven perfect victories.

The first goal of the game was not scored until the second half of the match, both teams having multiple opportunities to score in the first half but were unable to find the back of the net. Nico Williams eventually scored Spain’s first goal, forcing the English side to hustle.

English forward Cole Palmer, scored a goal outside the box in the 73rd minute of the game, but the effort was not enough for the side with Mike Oyarzabel scoring the winning goal for Spain with only four minutes of the match remaining.

The men’s England football side are still yet to claim the international trophy. They have been in back-to-back European championship final defeats, meaning extra effort is needed at the drawing board, especially given Gareth Southgate, the clubs manager for the past eight years –announcing he will be leaving his role as the Three Lions’ boss.

Norm Hewitt, former All Blacks hooker has passed away at the age of 55. He had been previously diagnosed with motor neurone disease – a condition that progressively damages parts of the nervous system.

Hewitt was a hardworking hooker who played 296 matches during his 13 season career with the Hurricanes. For the All Blacks, he played 29 games and made nine appearances for the Māori All Blacks.

As well as being a rugby machine, Hewitt was an inspirational speaker in his spare time and also became a dancing celebrity when he won the first edition of Dancing With The Stars in 2005. After he retired from rugby, he became an anti-violence campaigner.

Without a doubt he will be remembered for generations to come for all of his work and what he has achieved in his lifetime.

White Ferns left winless

The White Ferns left their England tour without a single win, having lost 5 – 0 in the T20 series and losing all three one-day international matches. The trip ended with a 20-run loss in the final T20.

This is the first time the side has been unable to win a game in a 5-match T20 series, leaving many questions to be asked by fans and coaches alike.

Ben sawyer, coach of the White Ferns started as head-coach for the team in 2022. Since starting he has won 16 out of 36 T20 matches and eight out of 21 ODI matches.

These tests in Engand have proven that the side needs a lot more time to come together and form some depth. But with the T20 World Cup happening this year in October in Bangladesh, and the side being put into a rough pool with Australia, India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan – changes will need to be quick.

State of Origin: Blues assemble

In the third and final game of the series, the New South Wales Blues managed to win 14 – 4 against the deflated Queensland Maroons.

Queensland led 2 – 0 in the break with the most exciting part of the first half being the fight spiling toward the interchange benches that involved everyone and their mother.

The push-and-shove started between Maroons Cheery-Evans and Blues Jarome Luai, and as it esculated resulted in two cards being dished out. One to Cameron Murray from NSW for joinging the brawl from the bench, and one to Maroons forward Jeremiah Nanai, who had exculated the push-and-shove.

The second half saw the Blues keep the Maroons try-less in game three. This is only the third time the Blues have managed to beat the Maroons in a decider at Suncorp in 44 years of the State of Origin series.

The game ended in a 14 – 4 win to the NSW’s Blues side who were left to celebrate by themselves in an almost completely empty Suncorp stadium.

Former All Black Norm Hewitt dies

Hariklia Nicola (she/her)

2 x 500mL CANS

KIEREN WOOLLEY

CHIPPA WILSON

ELI TOMAC

SEX AND RELIGION Where do different people stand?

Matias Gidden (he/him)

For most people, religion and sex are not that closely associated with one another. It is almost as if choosing one immediately negates the other. We’ve all heard about monks and nuns going their whole lives without a single romantic endeavour, but what are different religions’ actual views on sex?

On Christianity and sex, UC’s own Chaplain, John Fox, told Canta: “Christianity would say that we’re made for one another. Pleasure, delight and to partner up to produce children. That is hugely important.”

Fox further said relationships, sex and intimacy are profound, sacred things which “speak to us about the future that God wants for the whole world.”

He also spoke on the vulnerability involved in sex.

“Because it’s so important, we’d also say it’s very vulnerable to have sex with someone. You’re entrusting your body to someone and also opening parts of your emotional life. The original word for sex in the Bible is ‘knowing somebody’ which is why there are some restrictions on it, waiting until marriage and so on. This is so that the intimacy of the relationship is safe. The intentions have to be pure and safe for both parties,” Fox said.

Some of the biggest challenges that followers of Christianity face in today’s world seem to stem from the ever-changing social media and technological landscape, according to Fox.

“We live in an instant culture. There are a bunch of hookup apps now which means you can have a lot more meaningless sex and it’s easier than ever before to do that,” he said.

“Christianity comes from the viewpoint that each person has dignity, worth and meaning. Meaning relationships stem from that, instead of satisfying a need,” Fox continued.

“Anything instant is always going to be more attractive to people compared to investing in something long-term.”

There are eleven Buddhist Temples based all around Canterbury. Christchurch Buddhist Centre spokesperson, Claire Coveney told Canta that in Buddhism, sex is viewed as based around the principles of avoiding sexual misconduct and harm.

“Monks are celibate, but Rinpoche [a term commonly used for teachers in Buddhism], can have sexual relations with anyone,” she said.

“Early on it was a patriarchal religion and had very traditional views. Over time this changed with Nuns being included, who are also celibate. As cultures have changed, so have different views within Buddhism. Those views have definitely moved more to the Western style of Buddhism which is more of a

middle ground. It’s a more holistic approach that takes into account different factors around sexual relationships, like homosexuality, having more than one partner and so forth.” On motivation to have sexual relationships, Coveney said mutual consent is the most important thing in Buddhist society. “There’s also the precepts of not harming others, avoiding the poisons of attachment, jealousy or anger, all those things affect how we view sexual relationships. Being wise when having sexual relationships is important.”

Buddhism has some of the earliest evidence of religious attitudes towards sex in religious texts, along with Jainism and Hinduism. However, Jainism and Hinduism differentiate themselves from Buddhism’s views of sex as they see sex as something that is preserved for marriage.

Similarly, Islam, Sikhism, Jewism, Jehovah’s Witness and the previously discussed, Christianity all have similar teachings around preserving sex for marriage. These religions primarily make up the overall religious population of Aotearoa. According to Workforce Data’s 2021 Te Taunaki Public Service Census, 46.7% of respondents said they were affiliated with a religion, with the top five most affiliated religions being Christianity, Hinduism, Māori Religion, Islam, and Buddhism.

On the flip side, there are a host of less common religious denominations that originate from Pagan belief systems that encourage having an active and healthy sex life outside of marriage. Modern Pagan denominations like Roman Polytheistic Reconstructionism, Hellenism, Slavic Native Faith, and Celtic Reconstructionist Paganism all share practices that promote spiritual and physical fertility. As opposed to more common religious teachings around maintaining ‘purity’ and waiting until marriage.

In today’s world, it seems there are millions of different ideas, beliefs, opinions and ways to approach life. For some people, religion is a huge part of their lives. For others, not so much. Regardless of your beliefs around religion and sex, it’s important to practice sexual safety and respect. People’s choices about sex are deeply personal, because of this acceptance and understanding is needed to help create a safer environment for all.

Canta Commentary

Slasher Films

Halloween

The ‘Scream’ franchise has quite a loyal cult following, and for a very good reason. Looking back at the 1996 original, ‘Scream’ is both an entertaining high-school slasher with creative kills, and a demonstration of the resilience and intelligence of the female protagonist, Sidney Prescott. It is refreshing to see a capable and empowered teenager make smart choices and try to save her friends throughout the film, instead of falling into the traditional gender stereotypes within the horror genre. ‘Scream’ tackles many different tropes, introducing vengeful characters, infamous plottwists, and one of the most popular villains –Ghostface— of all time.

What I like most about this film is that it’s fun. Remove the gruesome aspects and tense score, and you’ve still got great comedic undertones most notable in the characters of Stu and Randy, and the subtle development of a romantic relationship between Gale Weathers and Detective Dewey. The overall plot is simple but engaging, and the grainy 90’s cinematography is great. The marketing was also A+. This is because audiences were drawn in with the insinuation that Drew Barrymore would be the lead, only for people to be equally taken aback, and maybe even disappointed, when her five minutes of screen time were up.

‘Scream’ has spawned five sequels so far, each remaining close to the original material. This is because Wes Craven’s flick is such a classic.

‘Halloween’ is a tricky film for me to review since it’s so popular, and yet I find myself sometimes only focusing on its flaws whenever I sit down for a rewatch. Starring the OG Scream Queen, Jamie Lee Curtis, ‘Halloween’ is a John Carpenter production that is still relevant today. Like with ‘Scream’, it is the inspiration of many modern horrors that have come out since the 70’s. Think of ‘The Texas Chain Saw Massacre’ and ‘Black Christmas’; all are a part of a golden age for slashers.

But my goodness is it slow. If you’re looking for fast-paced terror with a villain that doesn’t sound like he’s suffering from acute asthma, then this is not for you. Michael Myers is an interesting killer, since he doesn’t have any real motives, or desire to run. This is what makes him quite terrifying, although from what I’ve heard, his character becomes more unbelievable and poorly written further into the franchise.

That’s why, when in doubt, you stick with the original. I did enjoy the first few scenes, and the fight sequences between Curtis’ kick-ass Laurie Strode and Michael Myers. If anything, their ‘feud’ which spans forty years is among the ‘Halloween’ franchises most redeemable aspects, allowing a dive into trauma and loss.

‘Halloween’ incorporates the sub-plot of horny teenagers going at it, just to be killed off one by one while they’re preoccupied. Who manages to survive? The head-strong final girl who may talk about her crush within her first few minutes of screen time but does not engage with him at all physically. If this tells us anything, it’s that to survive a horror film - you cannot have sex on your mind.

Rating: Undetermined

‘Psycho’ is a classic within the horror/ thriller genre in the same way that ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ is for rom-coms, and ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ is for science fiction. This means that you’ve probably seen or heard something that is based on, or influenced by, this Alfred Hitchcock film. ‘Psycho’ explores hidden subject matter in relation to sex and violence, once censored by the Hays Code, which governed throughout Hollywood. Through this, it is one of the first mainstream film’s to really say ‘screw it’ and do its own thing, suggesting undertones of sexuality, incestuous feelings between Norman Bates and his mother, and breaks in pathology. But this controversy allowed ‘Psycho’ to create tension and fear through subversive horror, which I find to be successful in making an impact. While being quite minimal in its use of effects, and being shot in blackand-white, the focus is entirely on the character dynamics and psychosis, and mystery element.

So, scratch everything I’ve said about ‘iconic’ --- because nothing is moreso than the ‘Psycho’ shower scene that has been parodied by the likes of Bugs Bunny in ‘Looney Tunes: Back in Action’ (2003). It is the moment that you realise this is a good old-fashioned slasher, and that you don’t have to show everything in graphic detail for it to be considered scary. But I’m still unsure how I would rate it out of 5 stars, as its monumentality influential in cinema, but not a film that is easy to praise without consideration of its controversies and provocativeness.

Regardless, it’s required viewing for any horror fiend.

Scream Psycho

Olivia Welsh (she/her)

Dipper One

LUCKY

Each issue we set up two birds who are looking for love on a blind-date and then tell them to write about it.

Here are the unedited results of Canta’s chosen love birds for this issue.

If you want some free Rollickin’ and the potential to meet the love of your life, apply at canta.co.nz/lucky-dip

I strolled into rollickin and chatted to the ladies at the counter. They sent me upstairs to meet my date. I thought I would go in for the hug but I was struck with a handshake instead. To swiftly move on I offered that we go and get ice cream. We made our way down to get the ice cream where my flatmates were all in line to grab ice cream also. Little spies they are. We strolled back up to eat our icecream and the conversation was flowing honestly we had a few mutuals but not all that much in common. Obviously to my surprise he was an engineer. Other than that we participated in very different hobbies and different life’s. I can’t say a bad word about the guy he would be a catch for many people just not myself. We chatted for about and hour until fortunately my flatmates blew up my phone to get me outta there. We exchanged instagrams before leaving, which I have since gained a dm however I think that would be the first and last date for us. Only wishing him the best.

LUCKY DIP

Dipper Two

I’ve always enjoyed reading the lucky dip section in the Canta, so when I was given the opportunity to do it, I was down. I wasn’t too sure to expect, but that was part of the fun. All I hoped was that they were interesting and preferably I hadn’t met them before. Worst case scenario I’d get free gelato, a story and an awkward date.

I arrived 10 minutes early thanks to the bus schedule and chose a seat at the larger table in the corner as all the other tables had been taken. My date arrived on time and after introducing ourselves we headed down for some ice cream. Thankfully, she went down the stairs first as I hobbled behind her, due to the brutal leg day two days prior. Despite being tempted with drinks and a lot of gelato we both went for two scoops. It could have been fun to abuse the tab, but probably not the best first impression.

The conversation flowed easily and I appreciated her confidence and enthusiasm. We quickly found out that we had a mutual, both went to high school in Dunedin and had escaped the clutches of Otago Uni. We talked about her interest in a masters in marine biology and my engineering degree (whoops, likely red flag ik ik). The conversation moved to sports, travel, back to high school and many other topics. There were a few pauses, they were few and didn’t last long. The conversation was mostly surface level, which was a shame as I'm

sure we both had some pretty good stories to tell. I can’t blame us though as we had just met for the first time and leading with a devious story about a night out would be pretty forward. The date wrapped up after a respectable amount of time as she had planned drinks that were (supposedly) earlier than expected, she did seem genuine about it. I didn’t mind as it was better to end on a high than let the conversation fizzle out. We exchanged Instas and parted ways. Hopefully my cat pfp that I have been meaning to change wasn’t too big of a turn off.

Overall it was a great experience and I thoroughly enjoyed it. We didn’t have a huge amount in common but never ran out of things to talk about. I’m not sure if we would ever be more than friends but, I’d be keen to get to know her better, cause who knows? Thanks Canta and my date for the good time!

Puzzles Puzzles Word Search

I U G P K D J E D K E H V B I J Y G J G X S Z H C W A S I J

B X F S F H B C X G T L L P V J Q V U C V

H E F R T F X T A E W S W E K F K E J A W G V D

Cowgirl Reversecowgirl

Scissoring Pretzeldip Spooning Oral

standanddeliver reversecowgirl wheelbarrow oral missionary scissoring pretzeldip

sixtynine corkscrew spooning

cowgirl doggy

Standanddeliver Missionary Sixtynine Corkscrew Doggy Wheelbarrow

Oh, heyyyyy Leo. This Canta cycle, it’s all about you. I see big things in your future… maybe a little romancing?

Sultry Scorpio, this issue Canta wants to see you make your move. Take a step out of your comfort zone and become the instigator. I know you can do it.

Damn Virgo, it’s time to hit the thrift. Maybe it’s finally time to get the haircut you’ve been craving, or dip into the box dye. Whatever it is, change looks good on you this issue, and you need to be keeping everyone on their toes.

Get onto the puzzle section, read the news, enjoy your Canta this issue. Did you know the more you read the more you know? Take heed. Wise up.

Capricorn

The life of the party! Or as you once were. Sagittarius, what are you doing! You’re young, you’re hot - get out there! Enough said.

This time around, I want to see you take a step back for a little and smell the roses – you’re moving too damn fast! Don’t get caught up in the mid-sem blues, make the most of the little things … Spring is nearly here!

Aquarius

Good morning sleepy head! This time around I hope you’re going to realise your independence. Leave your mum alone, PLEASE.

Pisces

Hey pretty water sign, you’re looking GOOD. Enjoy yourself right now, maybe go buy a lotto ticket. I don’t know how long this uncanny good luck will last…

Oosh hottie, the start of the semester looks good on you! You started off a little slow and it took a minute to get out of your holiday slay, but now you’re good to go. Keep getting to those lectures and stay on top of your readings.

Good things take time. While maybe lately you’ve missed your bus, have had to climb to the 7th floor to get a good seat in the library and your Microsoft account is making you authenticate yourself every time you try to do anything uni related, keep trying.

Gemini – you need to get back into your creative side. You’ve been doing a little too much work with too little play, but it’s never too late. Listen to some music, maybe even turn your heater on before free power hour … who knows what will happen.

Ok, it’s time to knuckle down! Last semester was a little rough… for everyone but you, Cancer. While you didn’t realise it, the first half of the year passed you by. Seize the moment.

Meet The Team!

news@canta.co.nz

Hariklia Nicola

Heidi Slade Madilin Macpherson Managing Editor editor@canta.co.nz Print Editor print@canta.co.nz Designer design@canta.co.nz

Jordan Smith News Editor

Nikki Clarke Digital Editor digital@canta.co.nz

Amy Riach Feature Writer

Elsie Williams Feature Writer

Olivia Welsh Feature Writer

Maia Aramakutu Feature Writer

Tessa Birch Video Editor

Ella Paterson Audio Editor

Sophie Kensington Video & Digital Assistant

Alexandra Brown Writing Intern

Matias Gidden Writing Intern

Timmy Heritage Writing Intern

Honour Mitchell Social Media Intern

Mia Böhm Photography Intern

Rebecca Staal Design Intern