CANTA ISSUE 8, 2023

CANTA

Editorial Editorial

Why don’t you look sexy today, haha.

If you’re wondering why I’ve just come onto you like that it’s because I can’t help myself, it’s the god

It’s the issue you all wait patiently for each year, we have had an insane amount of you asking when it was coming. We are so extremely proud of how this one has turned out, the amount of you that got involved, got naked and embraced being sexy.

Our annual sex survey got an insane amount of response with just under 500 of you sharing your stories, and wow was it hard picking the best, you

dirty lot.

A lot of you have sex in general. It’s a pretty normal thing, but a lot of the time it can be a bit awkies to talk about. Nudity is pretty censored these days which we have tried to do our part to relieve a bit. Bodies are stunning let’s not hide them (that’s not me condoning a flat party whip out).

Now to be honest, it is kind of ironic that I am helping to edit and put together 48 pages about sex, can’t say I’ve been an expert as of late. That is why I opened floor to you, the apparently very experienced people of UC. A lot of you said you just wanted to get off. Whether that was through finding consent sexy, incorporating a kink, or watching porn you all just want to get that good good, and good on you.

Now I’m going to go off topic for a wee bit, as there has been quite a lot of insane things happening in the news at the moment, and I wouldn’t be a good editor If I didn’t at least mention them (keep in mind this was written 25/07).

Firstly a local real-estate agent has gone missing, since writing this editorial the last we’ve heard is that a man has been arrested for kidnapping after he was found with a one way ticket at the airport and that it was related to a property deal that she had done. She has still not been found and police are working through tips.

Labour Justice Minister Kiri Allen was arrested for reckless driving and refusing to accompany a police officer after a car crash. Since then, she has resigned, and has been going through bad mental health after being slammed in the media over her behaviour in the workplace, as well as personal issues.

There has been an on-going murder trial here in Christchurch. Which I won’t go into detail about, but The Press are covering it extensively.

And finally, the one that grinds my gears the most, that Countdown is spending $400 million on a rebranding exercise to Woolworths. Now God knows why a supermarket giant is spending $400 mill on changing a name in the middle of a cost of living crisis, when thousands of kiwis are struggling to even put food on the table. Bit of a slap in the face is it not? Duncan Garner said they “laugh in our face” and that “spending it on new makeup is a true insult to New Zealanders”. And boy do I agree.

Anyway, enough negative stuff from me, this is a positive issue! Overall, sex can be more than just a pump and dump, a quickie, or a morning whoopsie. Have mind blowingly fucking amazing sex (just please get consent and use a condom).

Live, laugh, labia Maddy.

Presidents Piece Presidents Piece

Kia ora koutou,

Happy Week 3!!! I know the weather has been a bit naff, but hopefully you have made it through Re-Ori in once piece. Hopefully after a bit of Sachi, Doof, and perhaps some Barbie movie action you are settling down well into the studies. Of course, that is not always the case, and if you’re finding any issues with courses this semester know that the UCSA Advocacy & Welfare Team, UC Student Care, & your Kaitoko can help you with any issues or advice needed. There are still 9 weeks to go of the semester , and it is never too late to set yourself up for success!

I thought I’d say a few words about PrEP, or Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, and HIV. PrEP simply isn’t talked about enough. PrEP is a method of HIV prevention that is extremely effective (99%+) at preventing infection after an exposure to HIV. It is a prescription medication, but if you are a member of the Rainbow community, or a community at a heightened risk of HIV exposure, you are almost certainly eligible for fully funded PrEP in New Zealand (this means $0 after July 1st for 3 months of PrEP).

Condoms are still an important tool of sexual health and PrEP doesn’t negate that. Neither am I saying that PrEP is right for everyone (some will have no risk at all). It is above all another effective tool in the HIV prevention battle.

Which is why it is near criminal that PrEP is inaccessible for the vast majority of those who partake in heterosexual sexual activity. This is the case despite HIV infections increasing in the heterosexual community. Compared to other nations, New Zealand has rates of HIV infection that are some of the lowest in the world. That is no excuse for complacency. Now that we both have the tools to effectively manage disease, and prevent transmission, we shouldn’t accept anything less than universal PrEP funding for all.

Despite the amazing work of community advocates, and organisations like the Burnett Foundation, HIV is still viewed with a great stigma. HIV is still viewed through an outdated lens, and things like U=U (Undetectable = Untransmissible) are novel concepts to most people. I sincerely hope this changes, as I believe strongly that the biggest step we can do to end HIV in New Zealand is end the stigma around the disease and take mature actions and discussions that allow us to end HIV transmission in New Zealand.

That’s all for now. Ask your GP about PrEP (if you think it is right for you) and enjoy the Canta Sex Issue!

Pierce

Tumuaki Piece Tumuaki Piece

Kaua e whā waho, tākai tō raho - Don’t be silly, wrap your willy. Mauri ora e te iwi,

Starting off with the issue about sex, I wanted to share my knowledge and understanding around sex. For Māori in the past and many today, our culture is very open about the topic. It is in many songs, purākau (stories), and artwork. It’s depicted in our artwork through the display of both female and male sexual organs, in many waiata songs where it mentions the intimacy of love in the sexual act, and in the stories where marriage was done. Some chiefs would have more than one wife (to strengthen ties with tribes and trading), and in some cases same sex relationships were also very open! And of course, colonization impacted this, as Europeans heavily influenced Māori that those songs and stories should be changed, carvings should not display parts and the missionaries strongly argued against same-sex relationships.

It is shown in purākau around Tāne Mahuta and Hinetītama, the story of Reverend William Yate and his companion, and Tūtānekai and Tiki. Māori accepted all sexualities because they had nothing telling them they were wrong pre-arrival of the Europeans. Sex was seen as a noa and a healthy way to express love and desire, and sex before marriage was also considered normal but in some cases were frowned upon. At some marae, it was common to show the female vulva in the entrance way to remove tapū to anyone entering, and even penises were carved erected to show strength and ‘manliness’.

I believe it’s important to keep that noa, and know we should be accepting of all. We are all human, all have the same organs that keep us moving and were all brought into this world with a purpose. We all belong, not one before the other, and we all deserve the right to be who we identify to be. I identify myself as a Māori/Scottish woman who has no issue with telling someone who thinks they have the right to tell people they don’t belong to sit the fuck down. I myself many times have faced those conversations where they think they can tell me who I am, and they’re wrong. Only I can, only I have that power, and the same goes to everyone else.

No one knows you better than yourself, and no one has the power before you do.

Kei ōu ringaringa te ao!

Nāku noa, Anna

Canta news.

Canta news.

University of Canterbury student runs for parliament

Matteo Zhang (he/him)

A University of Canterbury student is running for parliament on a Labour party ticket for the electorate seat of Selwyn.

Luke Jones, a third-year political science and communications student, will graduate this semester. He was confirmed as a Labour candidate in June and will contest the seat in Selwyn at the upcoming general election.

Jones already has experience running a campaign, having run as an independent council candidate for the Riccarton Ward at last year's local body elections.

At age 20, Jones isn’t the youngest to be selected in this election, further south 19-year-old Ethan Reille has been confirmed as the Labour’s candidate in the Otago electorate of Waitaki.

In July, Jones launched the Labour Party campaign for Selwyn in front of a room of supporters and members of the community at the Rolleston Community Centre. He said that the campaign would be a massive task.

“Our goal; the same as the rest of us across Canterbury and across Aotearoa - to return Chris Hipkins and Labour to Government”.

He told Canta that it was his “desire to make a difference in the lives of people across the country,” which got him into politics.

Jones said that change could not happen overnight and that it needed to be pursued consistency and constantly. He built up his passion for politics through grassroots volunteering as well as advocacy, and felt it was time to make the leap to representative politics.

Jones has a tough campaign ahead with Selwyn, a traditionally true-blue seat, held by National since 1946 when it was reformed.

The seat has been held by some of the National parties’ biggest names including former Minister of Finance Ruth Richardson, 29th Speaker of the House David Carter, and senior National MP Amy Adams. Adams is now the Chancellor of the University of Canterbury.

The seat is currently held by National MP Nicola Gregg who won the seat at the last election.

Gregg, a former journalist, and political staffer also officially launched her campaign in July saying that she and her team were energised and ready to go.

Gregg’s election margin in 2020 was only 4968 over the previous Labour candidate Reuben Davidson. A huge shift from Adams’ majority in 2017 of more than 19,500 votes.

At the last election, Labour also earned the majority of party votes – 18,102, compared to National’s 14,616. The shift in 2020 can partly be attributed to the ‘red wave’ which saw Labour earn the first total majority under MMP.

During his campaign launch, Jones recognised the shift in Selwyn saying that it was thanks to the hard work of local volunteers and the previous candidate.

"The goal, for the team and I, is to push us over the finish line with a successful party and candidate vote result. People who are watching Selwyn closely will know how fascinating the electoral dynamic is in the electorate, and the old characteristics and demographics of Selwyn are no longer predominant,” he said.

Jones was hopefully for a win, but said he recognised that he had a political mountain to climb to win the seat.

How to beat the blues of Christchurchʼs winter

Georgia Walker (she/her)

A great seasonal depression is upon us. It's here, it’s real and it’s a valid medical condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand defines SAD as a form of depression or low mood that relates to the change of season, particularly during autumn and winter, which then clears up in spring or summer.

The winter blues reportedly affects around 1 in 10 New Zealanders, and with chilly temperatures already spreading across most of the country, it is important to look out for yourself.

However, during the colder, darker months, it is relatively normal to experience fluctuations in feelings and behaviour, especially as we enter this new semester and encounter all the emotions that come along with it.

Many people find themselves sleeping longer, having increased appetites or cravings for different foods, desiring more alone time or cosying up at home, and generally feeling less energetic and happy. These experiences typically align with the natural rhythm of the seasons, as cooler months can offer a beneficial opportunity to rest and unwind.

Being aware of your feelings and recognising when you may need to seek support is crucial during colder weather, as SAD can arise and present significant challenges – especially for busy students.

UC Professor Gini McIntosh said a cluster of symptoms accompany SAD, which all “involve low mood or sometimes irritability, loss of interest, or enjoyment or pleasure.”

Prof. McIntosh said these symptoms present differently in different people, such as disturbances in sleep, appetite, weight, energy, and psychomotor functioning, which can cause agitation, “feeling worthless or guilty, difficulties with concentration and decision making, and thoughts of death or dying”.

So how can you navigate SAD? For many, a mix of light therapy (yes, phototherapy), medication, and counselling can be effective tools. If you are currently seeking support, the UC Health Centre offers a full range of GP services, including counselling.

However, there are many other ways we can prioritise our wellbeing during winter.

Prof. McIntosh said engaging in physical activities such as walking, biking, swimming or running can effectively counter the tendency to feel physically inactive when experiencing SAD - by getting your heart rate up through these activities, you can reestablish a sense of involvement with the world and experience an improved mood.

You could further try studying in brighter well-lit areas, walking to uni more often, getting more fresh air, making schedules or finding ways to maintain connections with people in your life that don’t involve going out too much in the cold, such as chatting online or inviting friends round to your flat.

Remember, it’s also completely natural to feel inclined to “hibernate” during winter, so be gentle with yourself, be aware of your feelings and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

UCSA President becomes acting Chief Executive

The University of Canterbury Student Association (UCSA) has appointed current President Pierce Crowley as the acting Chief Executive.

The appointment is a temporary one as the UCSA searches for a permanent appointee after former Chief Executive Julia Innocente-Jones took up a role at the UC International College as the College Director and Principal.

Innocente-Jones took the chance to thank staff in her last edition of the staff newsletter Te Hono.

"I would like to take the opportunity to thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for making my two years here so memorable and enjoyable,” she wrote.

“Even though we’ve weathered some tough times, throughout, you have all kept the faith and remained positive and committed to the UCSA and for this, I couldn’t be prouder of you all."

Crowley told Canta that Innocente-Jones had been a great support to him, and the rest of the executive and UCSA staff.

“We became personal friends and was just a great guide and mentor. She always had the interests of students at the core of everything she did which was so inspiring,” he said.

In an email to staff, the UCSA said that the appointment would ensure continuity and praised Crowley’s abilities to take up the acting Chief Executive role.

“As Student President, Pierce already has a wealth of knowledge about the organisation and has strong, established relationships

with the current UCSA staff, student executive, students, UC and other stakeholders,” the UCSA said.

Crowley, who has already graduate with his LLB and is set to graduate his BA this year, is currently serving his second term as UCSA President.

Elected in 2022, Crowley was the first president elected from outside of the executive in 15 years.

Crowley won’t be contesting the upcoming UCSA elections which will be held from the 16th to the 18th of August. He told Canta that it had been an honour to serve the student body, and that he hoped campus was in better place thanks to his work.

Crowley encouraged students to run for the student executive saying that while campaigning may seem daunting, the friends you make along the way make it worth it.

“If you’re on the fence at all - give it a go, you won’t regret it for a second. Definitely the best decision I made at university, can’t understate that enough,” he said.

UCSA engagement officer Xavier Moir told Canta that nominations for the UCSA elections will open at the Half-AGM on Wednesday the 16th and close on Thursday 3rd of August.

Moir said students can also expect to see the usual students debates as well as information sessions such as candidate speeddating in the lead up to election. Other details on the UCSA election schedule as well as upcoming events will be confirmed at a later date.

Cost of living policies not enough students say

Lucy Walton (she/her)

A range of new government measures have now come into effect to minimise the impact of the rising cost of living. But despite the new changes, it’s not all good news with other government support packages coming to an end.

Canta talked to students to weigh up the impact of the new measures against the end of other policies to see the how they expect the changes to affect them.

Firstly, the good news. Although half-price public transport fares for all have ended, many students will still get a good deal with 50% off fares being made permanent for those 13–24. Those with a Community Service Card and Total Mobility Users will also benefit from half-price fares.

The $5 prescription co-payment has also been scrapped, which is estimated to reduce the cost of collecting medication for three million people.

Minister for Social Development and Employment Carmel Sepuloni says that helping Kiwis with transport and medication costs is a key component of the government's approach towards the cost of living.

"We recognise that many people and whānau need some help with the basics right now which is why our Government is continuing to make targeted investments that won’t drive up inflation."

For students, these changes could provide some respite from soaring costs. Those Canta talked to felt that half-price fares were the change that would impact them the most, particularly those who bus to work or campus.

Views on the removal of the prescription co-payment seemed to be more mixed, with some saying this wasn’t going to have a

significant impact on their costs.

While another said that the removal of the prescription copayment, "will save [them] a decent amount of money," noting this could be around $80 a year.

Despite these changes, other key cost-of-living support schemes have now ended. Notably, the fuel subsidy of 25 cents per litre in place since March last year is now over.

This change has students worried. Particularly heading into winter when other costs such as heating are on the rise.

"We won’t be doing as many road trips or driving around due to the increased cost of fuel," one student said. "The flat will be much colder."

In weighing up the impact of all these changes, students felt that the new policies didn’t focus on the areas they needed help with most.

The increasing prices of basics such as food and rent are where students said they want changes. One said that "rent has increased, food staples like chicken are 50% more expensive than when I started flatting."

He suggested further moves such as changes in requirements for the student allowance to give more students support. While others said that more help with the cost of accommodation, food, and electricity would help them the most.

One student said that without further changes they and others will continue to feel the pressure of high costs.

"It has had a massive effect on what can be financially achieved on a student budget."

Battle of the birth control

Beccy Arnold (she/her)

Birth control. Needed, of course. But so inconvenient? Completely.

Because don’t you just love the personality-bending pills and excruciating IUD insertions with the world’s longest list of side effects? Seriously, with all this new tech coming out, surely someone out there can make a better alternative than what we’ve got. And when abstinence isn’t an option sometimes, there’s the big bad world of contraception waiting for you.

And it’s not so great.

Side effects of hormonal contraception like the pill can include negative mood changes, an increased risk of depression, weight gain, hair loss, migraines, missed periods and weirdly enough, even changes to your eyeballs. Long-term, it can slightly increase the risk for cardiovascular problems and cancer.

For many girls, the pill is their first experience with birth control, given its widespread availability.

Aspiring midwife and University of Otago student Caitlin van Miltenburg had been on the pill since she was 15 to combat her very irregular and heavy periods. Eventually she switched to a very strong pill called Ginet as her acne got worse.

“[The pill] was amazing at clearing up my skin but I didn’t realise that it made me gain heaps of weight, and I was constantly lethargic and exhausted needing to nap daily” she said.

That particular pill, Ginet, is a combination pill with both oestrogen and progestogen which is more common than progestogen-only pills. In most cases, it’s recommended to only be used for up to three months. Van Miltenburg ended up on it for two years.

On the more long-term, low-maintenance side of contraception, IUDs are pretty good alternatives. Depending on which IUD you get, they’re all valid for at least 3 years and up to 12 for some. There’s two versions of IUDs - hormonal IUDs and copper IUDs. The former has similar side effects as the pill while the latter makes periods more irregular, heavier and includes harsher cramps. Both have the infamously painful insertion which results in up to a week or more of cramping.

Of course, there’s horror stories all over TikTok about IUD insertions with one user, Holly Smallwood, experiencing labour contractions and dilation when her doctor placed the IUD on a nerve. She described it as, “easily the worst pain” she's ever experience, and passed out multiple times before the IUD was extracted 45 minutes later.

But even while IUD insertions are generally extremely painful, the pain typically only lasts a week or so, and after that it’s good for a few years.

Van Miltenburg switched from the pill to a Mirena IUD as, “it had much lower hormone levels to rebalance my body and didn’t require any of the admin of remembering to take the pill daily and renewing subscriptions.”

Having done mammoth amounts of research, she was “very, very scared of the pain people described,” but her experience was nothing like that.

“It’s the best decision I made as it’s contraception without ever having to think about it and my heavy periods are completely gone for 5 whole years! No regrets and is definitely the best contraceptive method for me.”

Unfortunately, for a lot of contraception, the responsibility falls squarely on the females’ side of the relationship with the slight exception of condoms.

When asked about his thoughts on contraception, UC Student, James* said that condoms were fine. “I personally don’t get the whole ‘it doesn’t feel the same with it on,’ like just grow up and stop pressuring women to have unprotected sex” he said.

“I always wear them [condoms] no matter if the girl is on the pill or not, it’s just safer”.

Healthline states that low-maintenance forms of birth control like IUDs and implants are 99.9% effective compared to hormonal pills which are in theory 99% effective, but when typically used, drop down to being between 91% and 93% effective. In terms of how reliable condoms are, “pretty much completely effective” is a bit of a reach, as Healthline believes condoms are only 86% effective with typical use, but with perfect use are 97% effective. Methods of birth control outside of the pill, IUD or condoms are typically less common because of their lowered effectiveness. The UC Health Centre offers Depo-Provera shots as another contraception alternative, which is an injection that women receive every three months. Healthline says the shot is 94% effective with typical use, and of course comes with those pesky hormonal side effects.

However, this option is fairly uncommon as the shot can temporarily affect fertility as it may take up to 18 months to get pregnant.

There’s so many options out there but when contraception battles it out over who’s best, there’s no clear winner. No matter which one you choose, they’re all just a little bit shit.

*name has been changed for anonymity purposes

RNZ 2017 / Illustration Holly Davies

The Recap The Recap

Matteo Zhang (he/him)

French teenager killed by police sparks riots

In July, riots erupted across France after the killing of a French teenager by the police. The teenager, Nahel Merzouk, was shot and killed by police during a traffic stop in Nanterre, a suburb of Paris.

There was widespread anger across France after the killing of the 17-year-old who is of Moroccan and Algerian descent. Protestors have blamed the killing on deep seated racism in French law enforcement, and the disproportionate targeting of black people and Arab immigrants particularly in Frances poor urban suburbs.

The 38-year-old motorbike traffic officer, named Florian M, who fatally shot Nahel has been charged with voluntary manslaughter. The officer claims that he fired a shot after he feared his colleague's life was in danger. A law change in 2017 gave French police the power to shoot a fleeing driver if they refuse to stop and are a threat to others.

The protests quickly devolved into riots with thousands of mostly youths setting cars, rubbish, and buildings on fire. Fireworks were used to attack police during the days of unrest and municipal buildings such as schools, police stations and town halls were set on fire.

Nahel’s Grandmother appealed to rioters to stop the violence telling French broadcaster BFMTV that the rioters were using Nahel’s death as an excuse. “I say this to those who are rioting, do not smash windows, attack schools and buses. Stop. It’s mothers who take those buses,” she said.

With less than 100 days until the general election polls remain tight

With less than a hundred days to go before New Zealanders cast their vote in the 2023 general election, polls remain extremely tight as the race heats up.

The Spinoff has averaged the latest five published polls of New Zealanders voting intentions finding that the 120-seat parliament could end up in a dead heat with 60-60 split between left and right leaning parties. The averaged polling shows National with 44, Labour also 44, Act 16, Greens 11, TPM 5.

This is assuming that Te Pāti Māori will earn an electorate seat to get them past the 5% threshold needed. And that no other party below 5% wins an electorate seat, such as TOP, who are pinning their electoral hopes on the seat in Ilam.

While the dead split is unlikely and the vote likely going one way, or another come election day. It highlights the uphill battle all parties have of convincing kiwis to change their vote.

Chris Hipkins attends NATO summit in Lithuania

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has attended a NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, to discuss Russia’s war in Ukraine and other security challenges facing the Alliance and its partners.

New Zealand while not a treaty member of NATO, was welcomed alongside Australia, South Korea and Japan as NATO partners. The grouping is informally known as the Indo-Pacific Four (IP4) and is described by NATO as an effort to increase mutual awareness of security challenges facing the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions.

Secretary-General of NATO Jens Stoltenberg said that New Zealand was a “highly valued partner of NATO,” and that strengthening cooperation was vital as “security is not regional, security is global.” At the meeting in NATO, Hipkins announced further financial support for Ukraine after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on the sidelines of the Summit.

The summit also coincided with the signing of the European Union and New Zealand Free Trade agreement. The new EU-NZ FTA will eliminate tariffs on trade between the two and is part of New Zealand’s effort to diversify its trade portfolio.

Israel conducts widescale military operation in occupied city Jenin

Israeli forces conducted a widescale military operation not seen in 20 years into the occupied West Bank city of Jenin. Israeli forces described the operation as an “extensive counter-terrorism effort.”

The operation lasted 48 hours and has left twelve Palestinians and one Israeli soldier dead. Eight of those killed were members of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the militant group said in a statement. The operation left destruction across the refugee camp in Jenin and forced thousands to flee during the violence.

The United Nations Secretary-General expressed deep concern and said that all military operations must be conducted with full respect for international humanitarian law. New Zealand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nanaia Mahuta, also expressed concern of the escalation in Jenin, tweeting that New Zealand urged all parties to exercise restraint, prioritise the protection of civilians and to uphold international humanitarian law.

During the operation, a driver rammed a Tel Aviv shopping centre and stabbed civilians in a terror attack which the Palestinian militant group Hamas has claimed responsibility for.

Student media sure does some crazy things.

From nude covers and satirical commentary to calling out university failures and breaking fresh stories, there’s no denying the structured chaos of it all. As the so-called runt of New Zealand media, student magazines fly under the radar and remain to be one of the lasting remnants of print media. Canta, of course, is no different.

In this modern era of ultra PC-ness, student mags exist in a completely different environment than they did even 50 years ago. The world is both gaining political consciousness and are openly discussing once unspeakable things but operates in a space where there is no room for mistakes. There’s been plenty of backlash surrounding the highly contentious issues we cover but most of student media’s most controversial moments almost always come from one iconic topic, sex.

Thankfully for research’s sake, our very own Macmillan Brown Library carries virtually every issue of Canta from 1969 (ironic).

If you read nothing else, go read the 1969 issues because they’re weirdly similar to a 2023 Canta. You’d think after all this time, the student body would have changed but we’re still little shits whining about student loans and social issues.

The 1969 editions of Canta are shockingly graphic and low-key raunchy considering that it was the 60s, though this was printed during the liberating Sexual Revolution of the Western World that happened from the 1960s to the 1970s. Their sex edition features an article titled, “An Intelligent Woman’s Guide To Sex,” on the basis that “no girl at university can afford to become pregnant.” More interestingly, the cover is a photograph of a completely nude man and woman, looking stoically at the camera as

they artfully cover their lower halves.

It shows its time and place as you read the article though, the writer stating that “If she does become pregnant, she’ll either have to have an abortion, which is costly and always traumatic, or she’ll go through with it all and suffer the greater trauma of being an unmarried mother.”

The issue also had an article called, “Phallic Worship: The Origin of Sex and Religion and the Significance of Sex,” which has detailed descriptions of unsuspectingly phallic objects along with some very outdated contraceptive methods and even more naked bodies. Not surprisingly, it was met with backlash. The letters to the Editor section shows several letters from people who are outraged at the “misleading and dangerous” depictions of sex. One even suggests that the only contraceptive method necessary is “abstinence before marriage.”

As the years progressed, our Canta ancestors never shied away from a contentious cover. The 1976 Issue 7 depicts Uncle Sam clutching an outline of New Zealand with pube-like squiggles covering the Tasman and Wellington regions, headlined “AMERICA: Got us by the short and curlies!”

The editions of Canta from the 80s shift away from the outright graphicness of sex and are more geared towards the social issues that surround it like rainbow rights, women’s rights and law reforms. The homosexual law reform that passed in 1986, which meant homosexual relations between men was decriminalised, was a contentious topic and in true student media fashion, it graced almost every page.

Considering the political and social climate of the 80s, it’s no surprise that student mags didn’t talk as much about just sex and instead gave people in the midst of controversy a voice. The 80s editions of Canta are tender and somewhat endearing. There’s letters of lesbians coming

out to their parents for Lesbian Visibility Week and covers with collages of gay rights activists clutching signs that read “Hooray I’m Gay!” and “My grandmother loves me.” There’s opeds about raising the age of consent to 12 to 16, and several informative pieces from women’s rights officer Phoebe Gray.

Because even though sex and student media are basically synonymous, it’s not always about breaking down the explicitness of the act itself, but just as much about the nuanced topics and conversations that come with that. And that’s where student media often gets it right. Sure, there’s always gonna be a few dick pics and crude cartoons in there, but the coverage of such a typically taboo topic is so necessary. Being open, being able to make jokes and commentary is freedom.

But freedom within student media has always been a multifaceted idea.

With all student publications, they’re linked to a university and subsequent Student Association. Only a few years ago in 2019, Canta editor Samantha Mythen launched a petition against the UCSA’s pre-publication vetting of the magazine, claiming it was being censored. Articles were being pulled from the magazine and in 2015, an entire issue was recalled after it’s ‘poor taste’ about virtual rape. The petition received over 700 signatures and the following year, Canta gained editorial independence from the UCSA, following the format of University of Otago’s Critic and Victoria University’s Salient.

Current editor and print editor for Canta, Maddy Croad and Hariklia Nicola have explained Canta’s relationship with the UCSA saying it is “strictly professional and independent. We are in no way shape or form run by the UCSA. Canta’s managing editor is the person in charge of all final Canta decisions. Because of this, Canta can operate freely, be

less PC and put in the magazine whatever is appropriate for our readers.”

Creative independence is imperative in how student media operates. As soon as an institution starts to censor content is when mags are restricted to a tertiary ideal instead of freely expressing opinions and advocating for students.

Things like alcohol, drugs, and sex, “are topics which are in almost every single students’ lives yet for some reason people just don’t want to talk about it!” according to Croad and Nicola. “We approach these topics like your mate, not your mum.”

Canta started getting into the real nitty gritty in their 90s issues, covering anything from homosexual relationships and transsexuality, sex toys, pornography and secret suburban sex clubs. Yes, secret sex clubs. In their 1995 sex issue, Canta released a letter that a female student had received, inviting her to join a prestigious sex club made up of ‘elites’ from the Merivale/Fendalton area. Unsure of whether this letter was an honest invite or an intricate hoax, Canta asked their readers for any information they had.

And then the story made national news.

The very next week, Canta released an article outlining the widespread attention the letter had received as they were “bombarded with calls from people who had seen or received letters, print media enquiries and of course television. TVNZ and TV3 both wanted to meet a lucky recipient of one of these letters.”

Turns out, the Police went with one of the young women who had received a letter to the rendezvous point where they found a lone 41 year old man. He had been distributing the letters for a few months and was “suitably embarrassed” about the trouble he had caused. No further action was taken.

But even beyond their sex issue, the advertisements from the 90s were also a little on the nose with some intentionally small font sizes calling out all

of us “DIRTY FILTHY STUDENTS.”

Moving into the turn of the century, 2000s editions of Canta are exactly what you’d expect from students in that golden era. Notably the appearance of not just colour printing but advertisements set it apart from its predecessors. There were ads for events at The Foundry including a Bucking Bull Competition, a signing of calendars from Calendar Girls and an extremely enticing competition to win an iPod. Back when a pack of Cruisers was just $6.99 and Christchurch nurses were advertising jobs with “excellent rates of pay,” it’s clear that it really was a completely different time.

Issues from 2005 feature a column entitled “Sex and The Single Girls” where Genevieve and Nikki illuminate the trivial affairs of single women. It takes a more comedic approach, particularly in their “Performance Anxiety” edition of the column where both girls pretend to fall asleep when the other guy can’t get it up. Right beside it is a detailed investigation into thrush. Nice. But what’s clear from these articles is the deconstruction and normalisation of sex and in particular, bad sex, which in part can be put down to the beginnings of internet culture.

In 2005, the internet was just taking off and the spread of information was becoming increasingly rapid. As internet culture grew, people were able to access more information which helped to destigmatize sex. Before this point, information could be sourced from newspapers, magazines, or word of mouth, which was always subjective and at some point, censored. The internet allowed people to share in the not so great part of sex and be open about it.

As we hit the 2010s, we finally reach the era when uni mags are digitised!

Canta mags in the 2010s aren’t too different from the previous decade. They’re longer issues, keeping on trend with the rest of the media world. Notably, the appearance of crowd-favourite ‘Lucky Dip,’ puzzle pages and a fortnightly issue rather than a weekly issue meant a different landscape for Canta in the early 2010s.

From the late 2010s and into where we are now, as print is dying its slow yet predicted death, Canta shifts gears and adds other formats apart from the long-standing magazine format. Of course, we still have a magazine in both print and digital, but now there’s radio shows, Canta Banta, and we've even moved into the video space with Canta Can Canta Does. From employing type setters and print formatters back in 1969, we now have digital editors and contributors, and that is pretty freaking cool.

On the whole, Canta has always stayed true to itself but adapted to the new era of journalism and student mags.

Student media is alt-nerdiness and niche references, satire and inside jokes, but it takes risks and pushes boundaries. We break stories and cover old ones, provoke deeper thought, and probably encourage the loss of a few brain cells, but we will always entertain and educate our students. We are advocates and story-tellers, who speak on topics in a way that other news outlets would never dare. Canta has never steered away from taboo subjects and it will continue to do so as long as there’s any student who wants to listen.

THE SIX THINKING

The LECTURER

The LECTURER THE SIX THINKING

Karen Saunders is a lecturer at the University of Canterbury. With a specialisation in the arts and culture. Saunders has an interest in researching Queer Theory, New Materialism and Posthumanism.

When they talk about historical norms regarding sex and sexuality, Saunders notes “what was defined as normal was historically decided by early sexologists, as a result the views are heteronormative, reductive, not nuanced.” With an “old fashioned” focused on genitalia.

This view of sex as society knows it has been entrenched by colonial hegemons for centuries. Modern sexual norms are framed by religion, colonialism and early sexologists. Calls to move away from these norms are met with backlash and the desire to “return to normal”.

Hegemons stoke this fear of moving away from norms to rile up populace, all out of fear to maintain power. Radical theories challenge this outlook.

“Sexuality is one of those powerful things, it cannot be contained, however communities have tried to contain it,” Saunders says. “We’ve taken something that is very complex and watered it down, to understand and control it”.

Sex positivity seen as threat to hegemons, as well as those who don’t need to question themselves a form of heteronormativity. There will be pushback but also, progress the pushback comes from the conservative right but has gotten to the point where the pushback is seen as extremism. The so called ‘culture wars’ is the result of questioning the hegemon.

What is considered ‘normal’ is a construct, it’s not what is natural. Working out what is natural is difficult do to ideological influence.

When the natural world is used to defend sexual norms, “people only want to see what they want to see,” the existence of same-sex relationships amongst animals are ignored.

Western colonial views eradicated expression in sexual identity.

Michel Foucault in the book “History of Sexuality” questions the traditional view of sex for reproduction and proposes a new sex as pleasure-based concept.

People can connect over intensities over just about anything, Saunders used food for example.

Modern sex education reflects societal norms. With a focus on reproduction and STIs. Things such as relationships and pleasure ignored. Backlash from far-right about teaching of rainbow issues is also an example about pushback behind changing norms.

Change would involve a change from the traditional outlook of sex, the gender binary props up these norms.

Saunders thinks moving away from those binaries would be an important first step “people still think there are two sexes”. Decentralisation or discontinuation of the binary model would solve equity issues, society would benefit from a shift from the current binary model to a new spectrum model regarding sexuality. “Where people can move about where they see fit”.

Despite suggesting a shift away from labels and the associated norms, Saunders notes that labelling groups is paradoxical needed for groups to fight for rights such as the rainbow community, but they enforce rigidities of norms.

Saunders encourages society to think about how grey sexuality is, and to not look it as a black and white thing. “Life is chaotic” she said.

The CHAPLAINS

Rev. Dr. John Fox (he/him) is the Senior Ecumenical Chaplain at the University of Canterbury. Cassandra Burton-Wood (she/her) is a UC Chaplain.

When asked what sex represents within Christianity, John responds: “Our perspective would be that it’s for mutuality, commitment, and delight. The Bible’s full of all that stuff... not to be a Bible geek, but the first word for sex in the Bible, the King James version, is ‘Adam knew Eve’. For us, sexuality isn’t just an appetite... it’s about encountering another person and really knowing them.”

He emphasises the importance of consent: “When you’re touching another person, even just to shake their hands, you’re touching a sacred person. A creature of God, not just another animal.”

Cassandra says that community support is an important component of Christian sexuality. “I think the Christian understanding of sexuality is broader than the particular act of sexual intercourse. A really vibrant Christian community will have single people exercising their sexuality, in a sense, in really healthy ways, with intimate friendships. Sexuality... is that kind of movement towards others.”

“For a Christian, the deepest fulfilment is always God, for that desire,” Cassandra says. “It’s actually because that is satisfied by

God that we’re free to love others, without having to worry about our egos – or having to need something from them that they can’t actually give us. So sexual intercourse is not crucial to a Christian understanding of sexuality; everyone can live out their sexuality in really healthy ways.” John adds: “With a variety of relationships and with a variety of loves.”

John believes that separating sex from relationality can cause problems. “What you’re supposed to get is pleasure and freedom – what you tend to get is anxiety and loneliness.”

“For us, sex is a matter of gift, where you gift to people rather than taking from them. We all understand physical appetites – we all understand what happens down at Flux on Saturday night – and fair enough. That said, my experience is that true happiness comes from knowledge and from gift.”

John says that in his time as a university chaplain, questions about sex and sexuality come up “all the time”. He says there are concerns about vulnerability, pleasure, love hunger, as well as classic definethe-relationship issues. “A whole bunch of things where people say, ‘I have this freedom. Now what do I do with it?’.”

John assesses his work: “It’s not part of my job to judge people. But I think... the older I get and the more people I see in the office, the more I realise sex is a very powerful force. It has to be balanced by something – by sacrifice, by gift, by commitment, by a whole bunch of things, which make it meaningful.”

THINKING HATS OF SEX

THINKING HATS OF SEX

The NURSE The NURSE

Peter Lyu is one of the Practice Nurses at the UC Health Centre on campus. He specialises in sexual health for everyone but has a more specific focus on men who have sex with men (MSM).

He has found in his experience that people coming to university tend be very sexually active and are beginning to explore their sexuality and as a result are very new to the sex scene- they often lack knowledge of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and getting checked for them.

Ignorance of getting checked regularly for STIs are common and a lot of STIs are symptomless further adding to the issue.

Lyu said that at UC Semester One is known as “Clam Season” The name comes from the Chlamydia the most common STI and Fresher students living in the halls for the first time. They can begin to explore themselves unlike before and the communal living makes sexual contact more frequent.

“I try to push the idea that STIs are just like other illnesses just like colds and flus.”

Lyu stresses the need to get tested every 3-6 months, if one is sexually active and not just when they have been told about infection or are concerned. Especially for women as they are often symptomless when they catch an STI. Peter notes that Chlamydia has the potential to make a woman infertile later in life if untreated so it’s best to get checked to be safe.

There are plenty of services available for those who want to get a check-up or treatment. Some of which are the UC Health Centre, Te Whatu Ora Waitaha - Sexual Health Clinic and the Bennett Foundation.

As well as lack of knowledge, the stigma around sex and sexual experiences is another reason why people don’t get

checked and treated if need be – especially members of the rainbow community who are in the closet still.

Lyu believes the stigma come from traditional norms. Historically STIs have been associated with sex workers, the rainbow community and being in open relationships. In a world where closed sexual relationships are expected, a STI can be a sign of disloyalty.

The concept of sex is changing from a traditional western ideal of sex being sacred and private to a more diverse, sex positive one where openness especially to medical professionals is encouraged and stigma is minimised.

Lyu also wanted to make readers aware of the drug PrEP which can reduce your chance of getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. Especially for those in certain communities such as rainbow and MSM (Trans women and NBs as well) who have casual sex frequently. PrEP isn’t needed for a relationship that is completely closed. It is funded for all citizens and permanent residents who are eligible. People who are eligible are HIV negative and who are at an elevated risk of HIV exposure making PrEP clinically appropriate.

Some main take aways from Lyu include “taking ownership of your health,” “use Condoms if you can,” “get checked regularly (3-6 Months),” and be aware of the relationship between alcohol and sex as those under the influence are more likely to engage in risky behaviour.

Another bit of advice is to contract trace sexual partners, Lyu admits it’s awkward but a useful tool in the event of catching an STI as it allows people to know to get treated.

Finally, Lyu says to have fun with sex and to enjoy it “best part of being young”. It’s perfectly normal to have sex and to explore sexuality as well as get tested and treated if need be.

For inquiries about PrEP or testing contact Peter Lyu here peter. lyu@canterbury.ac.nz.

The KINKSTER The KINKSTER

a

Latex Chroma is a member of the kink community and has been aware of their fetish since a young age. Their particular fetish is latex, and all things involving it. They have noted that they get satisfaction from wearing latex and that they even enjoy “the smell and sound” of it.

For Latex Chroma sex helps with their mental wellbeing, although at the same time they note that it was never “really important” to them, and that originally, they had a fairy-tale dream that they wanted to fall in love and lose my virginity to the same person.

Latex Chroma enjoys sex but knows they will have a more enjoyable time if they are able to engage in their kink at the same time. They did continue on to say that not being able to engage in kink doesn’t stop them from having a good time.

One thing they have learnt as a member of the kink community is that having sex is not important to everybody and that some members of the community would much rather have their kinky needs met before or instead of their sexual needs. They feel that “being able to embrace your darkest desires can do wonders for the mind, body, and soul.” Meeting with fellow ‘kinksters’ has allowed them to find people who are into wearing latex like they are and as a result they are having “the time of my life now.”

When asked about society and kink they note that “I know this isn’t

considered ‘normal’ but it doesn’t hurt anyone.” Regarding the film 50 Shades of Grey, Latex Chroma said it was good that it got people into the kink world, but the film got “so many things horribly wrong with BDSM.” They noted the lack of consent between both parties, the fact safe words were ignored, and proper mental and physical abuse that would be deemed unacceptable in a kink relationship.

be unacceptable

When talking about those who are looking at getting into kink, Latex Chroma says that “communication is the #1 key to success” and that there is a lot to learn to ensure that both parties involved are safe and fulfilled. Another important thing they emphasise is that “when something eventually does go wrong (trust me, it will), it is best to be prepared.”

They feel that religion has affected the way society as a whole sees kink and that it can be tough for people to keep “an open mind”. They don’t believe people with fetishes are anything new, though it is becoming much more mainstream with lots of people embracing the “wonderful world of kink” as they put it.

Ella Jenkins (she/her) and Charlotte Thornton (she/her)

The STRIPPER The STRIPPER

Petra (she/her) is a stripper on strike.

“Sex work is becoming more and more an acknowledged part of the social landscape than ever before” she said.

There are many types of sex workers: webcam models, escorts, strippers, pornographic actors – even some writers of erotic fiction consider themselves sex workers. Petra is a stripper; she’s currently on strike to fight for better working conditions.

“The conditions dancers are expected to endure are just untenable – fear of the managers fining you for arbitrary reasons, bullying, delays – sometimes for weeks – in getting paid, unfair splits for tips, being forced to stay during severe weather when there are no customers, floors and stairs that are unsafe to walk on in heels, no guarantee the bouncers or management will address unsafe customers, the list goes on!”

Petra says that awareness of sex work has increased in recent years. “It's always been a part of our lives, communities, societies, but people actually talk about it, engage with it, and are open to the idea that it's just something people take part in.”

“Let's keep the party going with safer sex practices, safe environments for sex workers and clients, good information, and fair pay.”

While sex work is certainly being normalised, Petra says that it’s important to “leave behind jokes about quitting X Muggle Job and selling feet pics/becoming a stripper/starting an OF. While I think that'd be a worthy career change, the jokes minimises the time and effort that goes into making a liveable income from those industries.”

In Aotearoa it’s legal to be a sex worker, and for an adult to pay for sexual services from another adult. “Along with normalising

Maria Angelika Mangulabnan Padigos (she/they) is a secondyear student at UC majoring in Psychology with a minor in Public Health.

Angie is originally from the Philippines. On her initial thoughts regarding the sex and relationships culture at UC, she says: “I was pretty shocked, I would say. Cause I’m a Filipina, right, so normally in an educational setting, when it comes to sex, it’s a taboo to even talk about it.”

“When I went here, it was pretty open – when you’re in your friend group, they’re pretty open about it. They want you to feel comfortable about it. I felt so reassured.”

The university attitude about sex has been predominantly a positive one. “Here, even with the teachers they’re still willing to talk about it because they know it’s a normal part of life.

Angie believes this sex-positive approach has multiple benefits. “I think it’s a huge step, for women especially. We’re often just seen as, like, we need to just give birth to children. But the thing is, it feels like we’ve been neglected this whole time.”

“Our only purpose is just to give birth to children, cause

let’s

people get off, let people enjoy sex!”

sex work, let’s stop stigmatising people who buy services from sex workers. Let people find comfort and connection, let people get off, let people enjoy sex!”

Petra says that being a stripper “removed this scarcity way more selective toward my own sexual outlets. I didn't moments I

Petra says that being a stripper “removed this scarcity mindset I had toward sexual expression and made me way more selective toward my own sexual outlets. I didn't have to wait for big moments or wild nights because I had them as a part of my regular routine!”

“I think it normalised sexual expression for me, and I realised I could let it flow when and how I wanted rather than bottling things up until I burst, which I think is the norm for a lot of people.”

Petra’s main concerns regarding sex and sexuality “always centre around protecting our queer communities, especially the young ones! There is a lot of hate and misinformation out there, and it's worrying that we aren't further along in 2023.”

Plus, some always-excellent advice: “Accurate info and care for sexual health is always a concern for me. Get tested regularly, know your status! This goes for anyone and everyone having sex!”

She encourages folks to sign the petition at @19firedupstilettos to advocate for sex workers and to “remember that we like our jobs!”

“Like any other job, there are people who do it just to get by, but for the rest of us it's creative, challenging, and engaging and we just want to get paid for it like anyone else.”

The STUDENT The STUDENT

that’s what makes us a woman? But by having a sex-positive environment, and perspective for the future, it allows women to do more.”

When they were younger, Angie was pulled out of sex education classes for religious reasons; now, she wishes she’d learned more at a younger age. “Now as I’m older I feel that people need to know that sex is just a normal part of life. It allows a person to really develop who they are.”

They mention what they’ve learned from their time in the Health Science department: “It’s not only that sexual health focuses on your physical health, but it also focuses on your mental and emotional health, your cultural health, because health is a very interconnected concept.”

“In cultural health it’s either you’re in an individualistic culture – like America or Europe or New Zealand – or you’re in a collectivistic culture, like my culture.”

“When it comes to sexual health, if you’re in an individualistic culture it’s expected... it’s like you’re not living life if you haven’t experienced it. I feel like people are so pressured to experience sex to know what it feels like to be in that culture.”

Considering the future, Angie wants to find a balance. “I think finding programmes that will help a person’s sexuality would be good – but focusing on how they live. Because every person’s lifestyle is gonna be different. If it’s in an individualistic culture I think creating a sense of reassurance is really beneficial.”

They’re not ashamed of it.”

I'll have what she's having

What food can teach us about pleasure

Charlotte Thornton (she/her)

A turkey sandwich on white bread.

This is what Meg Ryan eats at Katz’s Delicatessen in the most famous scene of When Harry Met Sally. Ryan, as Sally, talks about orgasms while she removes slices of turkey from her sandwich one at a time. She takes a bite. Billy Crystal, as Harry, says that no woman has “faked it” during sex with him. How does he know?

“Because I know,” he says. Then Sally fakes an orgasm so loudly and wildly that the American film industry would never be the same again.

“I’ll have what she’s having,” says the elderly woman at the next table.

What the hell kind of incredible sandwich could inspire such a reaction? Of course, it didn’t. Sally thrashes at the table to prove a point, but who’s to say it couldn’t?

At Katz’s, Harry and Sally’s table is now marked by a sign. The sandwich in question is a menu staple. When in Rome, do as the Romans do, this real sandwich has inspired many tourists to disrupt the peace and loudly fake an orgasm themselves.

This routine event is probably one of the world’s most frequent displays of cuisine-related ecstasy. But I’m sure many of us feel the same way, much more quietly, on other occasions. Who hasn’t let out an mmm after a hearty pasta or a well-timed Kit Kat?

Food provides sustenance, but that’s only a part of it. Cooking and eating are deeply pleasurable acts. Food cravings are not unlike sexual ones, it’s the body telling us what it wants.

Sonia Waters is a somatic sexologist and bodyworker based in Wanaka. She describes her work, “I invite people to be in their bodies. So, embodied practices to find their pleasure through the felt sense, as opposed to any narratives or discourses about what we should feel.”

She says that people of all genders can lose touch with their bodies but can certainly regain that connection. She works with both couples and individuals and enjoys seeing relationships develop over time. When I ask what her favourite part of bodywork is, she says, “Laughing!”

“Taking people on journeys that allow them to feel that freedom of what their body has to offer. And out of that often comes laughter!”

Water's says that food and sex can both be erotic. “The word ‘eros’, now often conjures

sexual pleasure in people’s minds, but the original meaning of the word is more that joyous life-energy pleasure. So, when we think of food that way, it really can be that erotic nature.”

Food and sex can hold similar meanings for people, Sonia says. “We have all sorts of hangups around both, and we have all sorts of pleasures and delights around both.”

“And if we think of food and the genitals, you know, our oesophagus is one tube, so we put food in, we shit food out. And the anus is the kind of ‘dirty’ end of sex, or of the body, the part that we ignore; and it’s the part of great pleasure, for many people.”

I ask how food can influence our sexual selves. She says that to improve our experience of sex, “we can be well-nourished, hungry, hangry and sex don’t mix.”

Food can also function as a part of the sex act. “It can be an erotic toy, or plaything. We can play with food on the body, or in the body, or between the bodies. Chocolate, or honey. When you conjure up images like honey, some people love it, and other people hate it. I kinda cringe!”

I ask Water's if sex qualifies as a necessity in a similar way as food. “I do think that not sex, but pleasure is equally as important. Obviously, it’s not, sort of, quite as dominant on the hierarchy of needs, but pleasure and our sense of satisfaction in life and wellbeing, they are very connected.”

Joy, sexual or not, is key to a fulfilled and contented experience of life. We all know the happiness that can abound when we grab a sweet treat on the way home from uni.

“I think we can open our language around pleasure, we can say. So, we’re not actually just talking about sexual pleasure here now, we’re talking about food pleasure, feeling the wind on your skin pleasure, going for a swim and what does the water feel like on your body? Eating food, what does that feel like in your mouth, going down into your body?”

“There’s pleasure in every aspect of the body and of being on the planet.”

So, it kind of is about the sandwich. The sandwich allows us to break free and express ourselves, very loudly, in an extremely busy delicatessen. The sandwich brings Harry and Sally closer. It makes us laugh. It makes us smile. It makes us scream. We’re having what she’s having.

CANTA’S 2023

SEX POSITION OLYMPICS

Ella Paterson (she/her)

One thing everybody can seemingly get behind (pun totally intended) is that no one wants to have shit sex. But when activities in the bedroom become more aerobic than erotic, or you find yourself daydreaming about your flat budget whilst in the middle of doing the deed, it might be time to switch things up. Classic positions such as Missionary, 69 and Doggy are all well-known positions in the sex scene, but do these position really leave you texting, “Holy fuck, I have literally had the best sex of my life” to your best mate?

So, whether you are getting bored of the same old missionary or are simply just curious to get a bit more insight into which positions can get you and your partner across the finish line. Canta sets out to expose all the pros, all the cons and let some of our infamous positions battle it out in our 2023 Canta Positions Olympics.

MISSIONARY

When it comes to sex, everybody has heard of the classic missionary. Usually characterised by one partner on top of the other, face-to-face style, missionary is a position commonly tossed around and seen onscreen in porn and the movies. One anonymous student going by the name SexLuver1300 mentions that missionary is an “oldie but a goodie” and enjoys that missionary “allows her male partner to be dominant”. Whereas another anonymous student PussySlay3r69 mentions that missionary is “a bit mid.”

Buzzfeed labelled this position as a meagre 1 out of 10 for impressiveness but did mention that it is a low-pressure position that is easy to approach as a beginner. So, if you are into something a bit more romantic and low stress, maybe the mighty missionary could be the one for you.

SPEEDBUMP

Speedbump could be considered Doggy’s cooler, more sophisticated older cousin; characterised by one partner face down, ass up with the other partner thrusting from behind in a sort of plank-ish position. PillowPrince$$47, another anonymous student believes that speedbump, “kinda slays” but sometimes feels that her, “face being smooshed into the pillow is a bit uncomfortable.”

SexLuver1300 loves the position, mentioning that the “heavy breathing from behind is so damn hot.” Speedbump gets brownie points for its originality and for its very appropriate name. If the same old cycle of Doggy is getting a bit repetitive, give speedbump a test drive. Get that gearstick into action!

Although PussySlay3r69 was not that keen on missionary, they exclaimed their absolute pure joy for the Reverse Cowgirl. They mentioned that it allows them to, “take control and feel empowered.” Although the keen cowgirl didn’t rate the fact that the position does, “leave them with a view of the wall, which is kinda average,” but believes that the position allowing her to assert her dominance makes up for it 100%.

Interestingly enough, the reverse cowgirl has been deemed the “world’s most dangerous sex position” by UK-based surgeon Dr. Karan Raj. If being both risky and risqué is more your type of thing, the reverse cowgirl might be worth a shot! Yeehaw!

69 is an orally stimulating sex position, not involving the “classic” penetration, but instead involving the two partners, one on top of each other, with each partner giving eachother head.

Doggy is usually characterised by one partner on all fours with the other partner able to thrust from behind. Doggy is widely regarded as perhaps one of the more impersonal and animalistic positions, with both partners unable to share face-to-face connection. All the women I interviewed regarding Doggy found the infamous position to not promote a feeling of connectedness to the partner, not aiding in them being able to finish easily.

Despite the slightly negative response doggie seems to have received from our anonymous students, Doggy is still rated as one of the top sex positions amongst New Zealanders in the 2017 sex survey conducted by Adult Toy Megastore’s Mega Kiwi Sex Survey.

A collective opinion shared amongst individuals is that in both partners being orally stimulated, it can be hard to simply enjoy the climax due to having to put in work whilst simultaneously receiving. The dual attempt to reach the finish line can be self-sabotaging, instead, making the whole process slower, more stressful and, honestly, not helping one to finish easily.

And sidenote: with inflation, our 69 will soon turn into a 96 with the prices of eating out going up. 69 scores points in originality for being the only position that doesn’t require penetration to help get each other off but loses points for the significant amount of stress that can be induced.

Although we were only able to list and analyse a few sex positions above, the realm of wild and whacky sex positions is something constantly being explored. The “classics” above are only a snapshot into the type of positions to try out in the bedroom. And as for the winner of sex positions for the 2023 Canta positions Olympics… well, we will let you decide. Maybe you yourself are a missionary fiend, or an absolute slut for 69, or maybe good ol’ Doggy is more your style. One thing is for sure, sex is different for everybody and what feels good varies from person to person.

So, stay safe, use protection, and don’t be afraid to get experimenting, who knows…maybe you yourself will produce the next best sex position that leaves you breathless, sweaty, and racing to text to your best mate, “Holy fuck, I have just had the most earthshattering sex of my life.”

Breaking up to

Break-ups suck.

Whether it’s been nine months, four years, two unsuccessful dates or just a shameful ghost after a hook up, there will inevitably be an ounce or a ton of pain that lingers.

I’ve always believed I’m a break-up connoisseur. There is a profound thrill about helping someone guide the way through heartbreak, and as an empath, I yearn for nothing more than helping the broken hearted through a tough time. I truly thought I understood the nuts and bolts of heartache, but I was abundantly wrong.

I’ll never forget dangerously driving down the highway en route to end things with my first boyfriend, blasting For Real This Time by Gracie Abrams. After guiding my friends through what they should say to their partners, or whilst rubbing their backs whilst they cry, it seemed rather straight forward to me. Until it was my turn.

Queue the waterworks, the inconsistent breathing, the terrible driving and the lack of appetite. What the hell am I supposed to do now?

Love Better NZ have set out to solve this problem. They are a prevention campaign aimed at fostering safe, positive, and equal relationships. Helping the youth of today navigate their way through healthier, sexier (my words not theirs lol) and safer relationships.

“So we thought okay, break ups are universal, probably everyone is going to go through one at some point in their life. Let’s start there” said Zaffa Christian, leader of the Love Better campaign.

If you’re a TikTok fanatic or up to date with Aotearoa’s youth media channels, I’m sure you’ve come across the ‘What’s it like dating in Invercargill’ videos, or the Sushi Ball House dude (Tom Hunter) and Verboten Intern chatting about masculinity in relationships. Communicating through media partners such as VICE NZ and Shit You Should Care About, Love Better NZ is

dominating the social scene through its refreshing, raw and gentle content. There’s an essence of tender satisfaction whilst discussing the ebbs and flows your previous relationships, and there’s a mass amount of reflection.

Aimed at the youth of our generation, Love Better is a primary prevention campaign aimed at fostering safe, positive and equal relationships. It is a whole-of-population campaign that aims to disrupt and/or shift harmful discourses and behaviours around relationships that are universal and affect all young people. They’re currently in phase one, honing in on the core of it all: break ups.

As the women behind the campaign, Christian chatted to me about what they have been up to and what their goals are. I dove straight into the most important ‘need to knows’ with her. Why Love Better?

“We created the campaign to support young people to have like safer healthier relationships essentially, and it really kind of came out of the ‘It’s Not Ok’ campaign, which is a family violence campaign, but was never developed with young people in mind.”

Christian explained that the insertion of the publics personal opinions has created funny, heartfelt and relatable content, lighting the match to spark necessary conversations that may remain in the chamber of the mind.

“Who better to tell their stories than young people themselves” she said.

Throughout the interview, the values of normalisation, relatability and owning the feels popped up regularly, where Christian entails the benefits of personal commentary from the public.

As a passionate empath, it is so refreshing to see and hear other youth giggle about their flings or shed a tear whilst mending their broken hearts. In this current day and age, we can be grateful for our Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Justin

Bieber and Billie Eilish anthems that provide an outlet for heartbreak relatability through music. But not very often do we hear our own kiwi voices shine a light on heartache through conversational fashion, until now.

“When you’re thinking about things like break ups, it’s really important to normalize the feelings of hurt. I think that sometimes people who are a lot older and have been through relationships know they can get through it, and you can fall in love again” explained Christian.

“But when that particularly happens for the first time it is really devastating for people and we never really acknowledge the hurt.”

She dove into the concept of relatability in this campaign, reiterating the contagiousness of hope, where personal storytelling may promote “light at the end of the tunnel.”

As Men’s Mental Health month concludes, Christian reiterates the importance of this relatability in terms of young men. “[Relatability] creates what we call permission giving, particularly for young men. You know, hearing other young men talk about their feelings, it gives permission for other men to start to open up about their feelings.”

As a loyal Shit You Should Care about listener/reader, I was ecstatic to hear of their new podcast series “Own the Feels”. At my laid-back computer desk job, I would pop my headphones on and vigorously nod my head in agreeance to Lucy and Liv as they offer their opinions on real life break up situations. Vice NZ has also been distributing a massive amount of content with a tasteful touch for light-hearted heartbreak anecdotes that I’ve grown an investment with.

Christian explained that having both Vice and SYSCA involved helps to reach a huge audience. “Vice skews slightly more male and SYSCA skews slightly more female so it’s about a really good balance with those two kind of working as our main partners” she said.

There is no written handbook on dealing with a breakup, or in a more modern age, a TikTok tutorial. Christian explained that effective data has been drawn from the “It’s Not Ok” campaign to show that a lot of harm occurs during a breakup, in terms of self-harm and harming ex partners.

“I guess what we’re really asking young people to do is to lean into their feelings. As we talked about earlier, seeing other young people go through it shows that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.”

The relatability/storytelling content provides a stepping stone for people to get in touch with the Love Better helpline service. By texting 234, calling 0800 376 633, or emailing lovebetter@youthline.co.nz, people will be connected with a trained Youth line councillor in confidence.

“It’s very much about the young person who’s calling in for help, kind of leading that conversation, you can go as deep as you want, you can disclose whatever you want.”

Christian touched on a concept used by the councillors, that really warms my heart. If something comes up during the conversation that might appear more serious and specialized than the workers abilities, they will provide what they call, a ‘gentle handshake’.

“They will gently hold that person by the hand not in a literal

way, and kind of make that connection for them to a specialist kind of service that they might need.”

It’s no surprise to hear that break ups cause more harm than meets the eye, but what’s interesting to me is to hear what pulled the trigger for the Ministry of Social Development to acknowledge break ups as a threat to healthy relationships.

“When we were looking at that first entry point, we did a lot of foundational research, and actually break ups is the thing that kept coming up for young people, that they were struggling with and that they were seeing harm.”

Nine weeks in to Love Better, they have gained 6214 TikTok followers, and have commenced phase one, how good!

Christian reveals that the evidence is starting to brew, and data is being analysed in preparation for phase two next year in June. So keep your eyes, ears and hearts peeled for more information.

As I said my thank yous’ and goodbyes to the lovely Christian, she stopped me in my tracks and said, “Hey! You didn’t ask me my favourite break up song!”

I giggle at my forgetfulness at the most important question of the lot. “Oh gosh I took it off the list for time reasons! What is your favourite break up song, Zaffa?”

“Well, I’m obviously much older than the cohort but it has to be Love will tear us apart by Joy Division.”

Thank goodness she’s the queen of knowing how to Love Better because goodness, just had a quick google search of that song, and it is sad. So glad we have wonderful ministry workers like Christian who are passionate about mending the youth of today into healthier relationships and teaching us to love better. We kiwis are so lucky. We lucky.

the helpline. For help, all loved better.

Tim Smith (he/him)

In what is a shocker to no one, sex well and truly permeates hip hop history. From racy music videos to lascivious lyricism, rap music is no stranger to being upfront about lust. In actuality, the same can be said for most other genres. Songs about sex from all nooks and crannies of the industry flood the charts. Hip hop, however, tends to garner the bulk of the attention for doing so as it tends to be more explicit and braggadocious.

References of sex in rap are predominantly very boastful, which through rose-tinted glasses exudes a confidence that is so emblematic of the genre. Simultaneously though, hip hop bears a history for hosting sexist values through the expression of aggressive sexual attitudes. In rap, a heteronormative environment is fostered through the overwhelming frequency of heterosexual perspectives and themes relating to relationships and intimacy. In doing so, hip hop also exhibits a male-dominant gender power dynamic that is enforced through lyrical image control.

In Dionne Stephens and Layli Phillips’ studies they discuss how late 90s and early 2000s hip hop uses degrading, sexually charged lyricism to create and control images of women through a patriarchal framework. By labelling and painting women in these degrading, sexualised archetypes, these terms and their connotative values and traits become gendered and further enforce the gender power dynamic at hand.

That being said, the gender power dynamic in hip hop isn’t exactly consensus and is academically debated on which way it leans and to what extent. Sociologist Tricia Rose views it instead as a rapport between male and female artists, who participate in a back-and-forth dialogue where the sexual empowerment of women is the central idea for both sides in a binary power system. Rose suggests that the present misogyny in male hip hop reflects fear and anxiety regarding the power that women hold in controlling heterosexual sex.

“[Women in hip hop] not only hold the ultimate power to control male sexuality, but to also enjoy sexual expression, play, and innuendo without the need for sanctioning through romance and dating.”

Canta's "Fucking" Faves Playlist

The late 90s and early 2000s saw a huge rise in women in hip hop, particularly those gracing the mic with a counter narrative, reclaiming the sexualisation of women done by men and critiquing male dominance. Artists like Lil’ Kim, Missy Elliott, Trina and rap trio Salt-N-Pepa brought a new wave to the genre, being raunchy and unapologetic about their sexuality.

Matthew Oware in his studies of female-made 90s hip hop held the personal observation that this method of female empowerment seemed to lyrically lean into the male gaze, self-objectifying and self-exploiting the individual and ultimately undermining the initial intention. In the grand scheme of reclamation, I don’t think this is applicable and evidently neither does the industry or the listenership. The influence of these women on the shape of modern hip hop is undeniable as contemporary successors Nicki Minaj, Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, and most recently Ice Spice proudly take note from Missy Elliott and get their freak on, redirecting their image and empowering women in a historically male-controlled creative space. Latto, the MC behind sex anthem Big Energy, cites Trina as one of her idols as an artist and has tweeted out that she loves rapping about sex because it makes her feel powerful and liberated.

In this discourse, one counter to the counter-narrative that always pops up is the dog whistle complaint that “all women do is rap about sex,” which 1) is not remotely true, and 2) isn’t gender-exclusive and is built on hypocritical foundations. The furthest you have to look to prove otherwise is the two top non-female hip hop albums on the charts. (Gendernonconforming) Lil Uzi Vert’s Pink Tape cuts straight to the chase on Flooded The Face, rapping “First of all, I fuck eight bitches a day // How could you ever say Lil Uzi gay // Fuck four of 'em raw, fuck four of 'em safe // Think I'm splittin' the odds before you to debate.” And on a Gift & a Curse, Gunna does his due diligence to set the record straight on tracks such as his hit song fukumean, where he says, “Fucking this bitch like a perv // Smack from the back, grab her perm,” and “Suck with no hands, you can learn // Let's see how much you can earn.” Pshh, and they say romance is dead.

Purity Test

Have you ever...

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

Held hands romantically?

Been on a date?

Been in a relationship?

Danced without leaving room for Jesus?

Kissed a non-family member?

French kissed?

French kissed in public?

Kissed on the neck?

Kissed horizontally?

Given or received a hickey?

Had a parent or teacher notice a hickey?

Kissed or been kissed on the boobie?

Kissed someone below the belt?

Kissed for more than two hours consecutively?

Played a game involving stripping?

Have stripped at a flat party?

Masturbated?

Masturbated to a piccy or video?

Masturbated while someone else was in the room?

Been caught masturbating?

Masturbated with an inanimate object?

Own a sex toy?

Watched or read pornographic material?

Massaged or been massaged sensually?

Dry humped?

Showered with a MPS (member of preferred sex)?

Undressed or been undressed by a MPS ?

Had shower sex in a flat?

Fondled or had your butt cheeks fondled?

Fondled or had your tatas fondled?

Fondled or had your genitals fondled?

Had an orgasm due to someone else’s manipulation?

Had an orgasm due your own manipulation?

Have sexted or received sexts?

Sent or received nudes?

Engaged in sexually explicit activity over video chat?

Cheated on a significant other during a relationship?

Purchased contraceptives?

Gave head?

Received head?

Used a sex toy with a partner?

Spent the night with a MPS?

Been walking in on while getting the good good?

Kicked a flatmate or friend out to get some?

Done a yardie?

Finished a coffin in one night?

Finished a crate?

Successfully done Nitro hands?

Played a drinking game?

Finished a beer tower at the Foundry?

Have consumed alcohol on campus?

Attended a BYO at Zyka?

Been kicked out of a BYO?

Completed a red card?

Have drunk on Ilam Fields?

Fell off a Lime Scooter?

Snuck alcohol into an event?

Have lost Kings Cup?

Faked being sober to parents?

Had severe memory loss due to alcohol?

Used tobacco?

Used marijuana?

Used gear?

Used another drug other than above?

Have gotten in trouble with UC security?

Been kicked out of a UCSA event?

Attended Tea Party?

Gone to Mono? ?

French kissed at Mono?

Engaged in sexual activity on UC campus?

Wanked on campus?

Urinated in public?

Streaked in public?

Gone to Calendar Girls?

Had sex?

Had sex more than three times in one night?

Had sex in more than four positions?

Included feet in sex?

Had a one night stand?

Faked an orgasm?

Had sex with someone you matched with on Tinder?

Had sex in a vehicle?

Had sex in nature?

Had an STD?

Had a sex related injury?

Had a threesome?

Had a pregnancy scare?

Have slept with a flatmate?

Have slept with a tutor or RA?

Gone for a steamy sesh up Port Hills?

Had an OnlyFans subscription?

Had a warning from noise control?

Called noise control on someone else?

Taken a poo at a flat party?

Spent a night in the cells?

Gone on a Lucky Dip date?

Read a Canta?

Have a part of Canta on your flat wall?

Have made it into a Canta Can Canta Does video?

Kia Ora!

I'm George, Vice President of the mighty Fishsoc for 2023. My role includes planning and organizing events, keeping the exec in line and licking President Harley's boots on the odd occasion (only if he asks nicely).

Fishsoc is a relative newbie on the scene now currently in its 3rd year of existence. As the name suggests, we like to dabble in a fair bit of fishing on occasion. We are open for fisherpeople of all ages, backgrounds, experiences levels and cultures as all we wish to do is share our love of fishing to our fellow UC students. Sustainability is also a huge value of ours as we look to leave nothing but a footprint and keep Aotearoa's fisheries clean for future generations.

The beauty of fishing is that it can take place at breath taking locations throughout the South Island and we froth a bit of getting out there amongst it. Our flagship events are by far the Twizel Canals mishes in which we take a dip into the mighty MacKenzie Country to have a crack at the world class fishing down there. If you want a shot at a juicy 20 pound trout like the ones below to chuck on the tinder profile, then this is the one for you. We can even teach you our tried and true method of the good ol' catch, fuck, and release. Alongside this we have Learn to Fish events and tackle nights to pass on our execs' wide pool of knowledge on to any newbies. If you fancy a bit of dress up and drink up, our flat crawl alongside UCASS, Pongsoc and Opsoc are just what the doctor ordered.

If you want your best shot at learning how to catch fish, some skitz mishes out in our stunning backyard or even just a few social events to get out of Engcore for once, Fishsoc is the club for you. We would love to share our love and knowledge of fishing with you all regardless of your level of experience. It's also a great means of meeting new people.

Chuck us a follow on Instagram @ucafishsoc to keep an eye out for events on the horizon and for pics of some sexy fisherpeople with even sexier fish. Already hooked in by our top notch chat? Use the sign-up link in the bio and unlock the true Fishsoc experience (including a Super Liquor Ilam discount) for the small cost of $15.

CANTA'S SEX SURVEY2023

You, the horny humans of UC, have had your told us sex secrets and have spared no details, have a look for yourself…

THERE'S A BIG RANGE IN BODY COUNTS

SOME OF YOUR TURN ONS

Mutual masturbation

Bleached pubes

Nipples sucked

Canta quizzes

Dry humping

Moustaches

Sexy talk

Consent

Choking

Mullets

Rope

Feet

...AND OFFS

Dicks

Socks

Starfishing

Puffer vests

Taylor Swift

Bad hygiene

50

85.6% of you have had sex!

ONE IN SEVEN OF YOU HAVE HAD AN STD

Pee

...AND FIVE OUT OF NINE WATCH PORN

Bad fingering

Bad

Being called daddy

WE LIKE YOUR GO-TO PORN CATEGORIES

Erotic literature

Step sibling

Threesome

Gentle Big tits

Hentai

BDSM

Squirt

Trans

Furry

Anal Gym

WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT SEXUALITY?

Heterosexual (64.7%)

Gay (2.2%)

Lesbian (2.2%)

Bi-Sexual (18.7%)

Bi-Curious (6.7%)

Pansexual (3.6%)

Asexual (1.4)

Unsure (>1%)

Honourable mentions:

OmniSexual, gynosexual, fluid, and lesbian except for that one man

CRAZIEST SEX STORY?

THERE'S HUMPING ALL OVER CAMPUS

Mono

Ilam Fields

Ensoc Firetruck

Behind K Block

Library elevator

UCSA Bathrooms

Eng Core Bathrooms

Jack Erskine computer lab

West building top floor

Forestry Bathrooms

“With a paramedic after my grandma fell over and I had to ring 111.”

“Meet this guy on Christmas Day and went to a playground and fucked on the slide. Lasted all of 30 seconds."

“At a party, I fingered a girl that I had literally just met, in a pool with multiple of our friends sitting by the edge to make sure we didn't drown.”

“When I was getting hit from the back behind a car and actually got seen by one of the Canta Girls.”

“He didn’t know it wasn’t in so he fucked my thighs for like a min.”

“My friend lost her virginity to me and my ex-boyfriend, in a drunken threesome."

WORST SEX STORY?

“He farted very intensely mid sex and then started crying due to farting. I was chill with the farting but I have no idea how to comfort someone mid sex who’s crying about farting during sex while I’m still in doggy.”

“I had to scratch his back to make him cum then he walked around my flat completely naked.”

“I broke my banjo string banging my girlfriend all night, she started to feel really wet, then when we turned on the light it was like a murder scene.”

“Was pinging one night and I couldn’t get it up. Smooshed it in with my thumb and called it good.”

“My mum walked in on me in doggy over the side of my bed (therefore not in the sheets), lights on, facing the door.”

“When he finished he dropped my legs and I bounced off the bed onto the floor breaking my collarbone.”

“Guy was going down on me going well until he starts all the time, then he cums when i’m on top he shits himself and tries to hide it by moving himself down the bed, but i saw the shit smears, i just hope he got a new bed.”

BUT THE TROPHY GOES TO...

“Was with a guy who wanted me to piss in his mouth, I was game and keen for anything. Squatting over his face I let a little pee out, everything's fine, he likes it, I like it. Round 2 comes and I'm a bit out of pee and pushing hard to get some to come out cause I don’t wanna disappoint. Turns out pushing a pee out triggers the same muscles as pushing a poo out. I shat on him, just a nugget, thankfully it didn't go in his mouth but that quickly killed the mood. I feel bad for shitting on him but oml it was funny.”

THE NAKED

Where would art be without the human body?

Art originates from humans needing to express themselves. The first cave paintings are collections of handprints. As kids, some of the first artworks we create are stick-figures of ourselves, sometimes holding hands with our caregivers, dancing with our friends, or setting stuff on fire. Depending on what kind of kid you were of course.

The Western ‘canon’ of fine art is the core collection of works which are considered brilliant and significant, many by the white-guy rogues gallery known as the “Old Masters.” It’s filled with works using the human body as a subject. Examples include Van Gogh’s self-portraits, Vermeer’s fly-onthe-wall studies and Goya’s uncanny grotesques.

Many of these works are nudes.

Nudity in art has always been controversial, even for history’s most acclaimed works. In 1865, Édouard Manet’s Olympia, which has the nude subject staring directly at the viewer, shocked spectators for daring to depict its subject as both naked and confrontational. A year later, Gustave

Courbet painted The Origin of the World, a naturalistic close-up of a vulva. It was not publicly displayed until 1995 and was censored on Facebook as recently as 2011.

Since then, Facebook has amended their guidelines. Their website now states that in addition to breastfeeding and post-mastectomy images they, “also allow photographs of paintings, sculptures and other art that depicts nude figures.”

But this clarification isn’t very helpful.

But this clarification isn’t very helpful. Even Facebook agrees, on the same page they state, “the execution of our policies can sometimes be less nuanced than we would like.”

Defining art is basically impossible, so applying any of this correctly is basically impossible. Therefore, Facebook enforces its guidelines by holding certain forms in higher esteem than others. The older and more acclaimed a work is, and the more classical the art form, painting, sculpture, sketch, the less likely it is to be removed for violating the guidelines.

Facebook enforces its guidelines

Canon gets off pretty much scot-free. And The Canon is filled with chaotic white guys using art to express their feelings about their often-troubling relationships with women and girls.

Nudity is removed based on reputation most of all, so while video and

acclaimed paintings and engaging in

relationship with a seventeen-yearold. The less said about Picasso, the

Paul Gauguin, a Post-Impressionist active in the late nineteenth century, spent ten years in French Polynesia producing some of his most acclaimed paintings and engaging in extremely inappropriate relationships with teenagers. Egon Schiele was very briefly imprisoned for his sexual relationship with a seventeen-yearold. The less said about Picasso, the better.

A lot of the bias in favour of The Canon comes from a Eurocentric attitude regarding the perceived ‘purity’ of women in classical artworks by men. There’s a loud contingent of Twitter users who spend too much of their time posting ancient artworks next to photos of modern-day celebrities and influencers, alleging that women have become corrupted, impure and that we should all look to the muses of past centuries for inspiration.

comes from a Eurocentric attitude of There’s a loud contingent of Twitter alleging have become corrupted, impure and

It's all very misogynistic and colonialist

It's all very misogynistic and colonialist and white supremacist-y. Many of the women depicted in these famous works had very little agency, and

Charlotte Thornton (she/her)

photographic nudity is banned, The

NAKED TRUTH

consider so desirable.

Female artists, who have always existed and have always depicted nudity, are routinely excluded from conversations about censorship. In 1985 the Guerrilla Girls, a group of female artists and activists, created the poster featured on these pages.

It’s been nearly forty years since, and there’s still more work to be done.

Ruby Perring is an Ōtautahi-based artist currently studying at UC’s Ilam School of Fine Arts. She describes her paintings as sitting in the “realm of realism” with “nods back to Victorian aesthetics.”

Subject-wise, her work, “definitely centres around female bodies and female experiences.” “I’ve always felt very, privileged and just really, really lucky to be in a position to almost, kind of reclaim some sort of narrative, I guess, over the female form […] and our representation.”

Perring mentioned the essay “Medusa and the Female Gaze” by Susan Bowers. She summed up one of its core statements, “the male gaze seeks to possess, whereas the female gaze sort of lives and let’s live.” She said that

with fellow artists, this gaze difference is evident, “We always, kind of, joke

is evident, “We always, kind of, joke about how you can look at a piece and you can tell whether it was by a female or a male!”

“Last year I did a portrait of myself, I think it was about five portraits of different women and one of them was myself… they weren’t sexual, but they were quite vulnerable and voyeuristic scenes.”

She spoke about audience reactions, “What I found, as well, is that most femme-bodied people who saw the work […] they do tend to see it as something, like, overwhelmingly positive? Whereas with the reactions I’ve had to my work last year from men, they did tend to view it immediately as something sexual.”

This is a key element of art censorship. Nudity is not inherently related to sexual activity or arousal, and sexuality isn’t inherently “inappropriate.” But debates about where we allow nudity are not debates where we will get clarification on anytime soon.

In the absence of clarification, the presence of images, breasts, penises and vulvas, can provide an easy answer to the problem. But placing a black bar over the crotch of Michelangelo’s

exceptions.

But when censorship focuses only on preserving older works and banning newer ones, it can allow bad habits to continue. With current internet regulations, many of us only see the nude bodies of porn stars and paintings of centuries-old teenage white girls. That doesn’t need to be the case.

The solution can come from all of us. Female artists shouldn’t be given all responsibility for fixing hundreds of years of misrepresentation, objectification and exclusion. “For me at least […] there is a little bit of pressure to correct something that’s been so damaged” said Perring.

I asked Perring if it’s possible for male artists to ethically create artworks of nude female bodies. “I think, like, definitely there has to be so much transparency and so much communication with the subject. Like, so, so much. Probably to the point that like, they might as well be painting it” she said.

“I think it is, I guess, important that they can still paint us, but they don’t have to take over our voice".

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sexuality How gender discovery shapes sexuality

sexuality

Ella Jenkins (she/her)

When transgender people discuss their transitions, the topic of discussion is usually on their journey to understand and accept their gender identity. But just like gender identity, many transgender people undergo the same process regarding sexuality and how its expressed. Often the journey of selfdiscovery and acceptance of gender and sexuality are intertwined.

For myself, sexuality was not the main obstacle I had to negotiate whilst I was trying to un-derstand myself and how I identify. I was comfortable with being bisexual. But being able to experiment and express my sexuality was difficult as I was very uncomfortable with my body. Once I began my transition, the discomfort began to fade, and I could focus on expressing my sexuality. Despite hormone therapy’s reputation as a libido killer, I feel that I am more sexually active than ever, and I believe becoming comfortable in my gender identity is the main reason behind it.

Juliet Jackson is a 27-year-old transgender woman. Jackson uses she/ her pronouns and identifies as a lesbian. She said she has always been attracted to women, even pre-transition. When Jackson considered herself a man, she felt something was off, she felt uncomfortable being a heterosexual man. When she transitioned, she felt right as a lesbian.

Jackson remembers when it “all clicked” and that she was able to explore and enjoy her sexuality post-transition. Jackson has noted that her libido has decreased, despite feeling comfortable in her sexuality. However, this is due to the estrogen and testosterone blockers as part of her hormone regime.

Mariam Nixon, 26, is also a transgender woman who uses she/her pronouns. Nixon sees themselves as asexual. Asexuality is where someone has little or no sexual attraction towards others. However, that doesn’t mean asexual people can’t be romantically attracted to people.

Nixon recalls that early on when she was discovering her “transness” she

didn’t know she was asexual, “I didn't really know much about it at all.” When Nixon identified as a lesbian she confided in a psychiatrist, “ [it] got me in a lot of trouble” she said. Nixon believes the trouble was the result of being a trans lesbian and how it, “was seen as a disorder and not a valid way of being transgender.” Nixon said she struggled with depression after this.

Nixon felt that being asexual put her at odds with mainstream queer culture and that her ability to feel valid, “continued to be impaired.” What gave her the hardest time was how she was perceived by her fellows, eventually she

Eventually Callahan began to question their gender identity. They recall how dating a trans woman gave them the confidence to explore not only their gender but also their sexuality. Callahan feels that identifying as transgender shaped their sexuality, and also opened up more opportunities to explore things. “I learned more about myself and sexuality in general.”

Jasper Pritchard is a 27 year old trans man and uses he/him pronouns. Pritchard says that their sexuality, “definitely evolved” as they transitioned. He identified first as bisexual and then as a lesbian before coming out. Pritchard notes that in hindsight he always had attraction to men, but he didn’t acknowledge those feelings, as the idea of being a straight girl felt “very wrong”.

Pritchard spoke of the time he spent pre transition as a lesbian noting that “being a lesbian, I at least felt I was addressing some part of that inherent difference inside of me”. It also allowed him to explore his masculinity in a community that was more open to diverse gender expression.

settled into the idea that she cannot rely on external validation when it came to her sexuality, and with that she became comfortable with her asexual identity.

Fen Callahan is 23 years old and identifies as genderqueer. Callahan uses she/they pronouns and currently see themselves as grey asexual. Grey asexuality is described as the area between asexuality and sexuality. Before coming out, Callahan always saw themselves as straight before coming out as transgender and as result was only attracted to women.

When Pritchard came out as trans, he started to acknowledge his feelings for men more, and went back to identifying as bisexual, when Pritchard started seeing the results of hormone therapy, he felt more comfortable in identifying as a gay man. However, it wasn’t until he had top surgery that he could, “feel confident enough to pursue gay guys.”

The transgender community is full of stories about personal discovery, whether it be about gender identity or sexuality. Just like gender, sexuality is something that is unique to every-one. Some people are comfortable without much personal reflection, but for others it is some-thing that takes time and experimentation to understand. Sexuality is not a black and white thing, there is a lot of grey. Just like gender, sexuality can be seen as a spectrum, with many different identities and expressions.

Ft: The yummy cast of Magic Mike

Alex Pledger hangs it

After a stellar fourteen year career, kiwi big Alex Pledger has announced his retirement from basketball. The 7’0” fan favourite spent the entirety of his professional career close to home, splitting time between the Australian NBL and the New Zealand NBL, ultimately combining for a total of six championships between the two leagues.

In March of 2021, Pledger’s career was put on hold when he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Finally cancer-free, Pledger returned to the Southland Sharks this NZNBL season for one last inspiring hoorah. With the kiwi season nearing conclusion, the Sharks organisation hosted a jersey retirement for Pledger, celebrating his contributions to Invercargill basketball and putting his #35 in the rafters.

Damian McKenzie earns #10 and shows out

Ahead of New Zealand’s debut at the 2023 Rugby Championship, coach Ian Foster announced that Damian McKenzie would suit up in #10 ahead of Richie Mo'unga, spurring much discussion. The fullback has been on a hot run as of recently with Tokyo Sungoliath and the Chiefs, the latter of which he has led to the top of the Super Rugby standings at 13-1. Foster seems confident in McKenzie’s current momentum, saying that “he's just playing really well… [we're] so impressed with the way that he's come back.”

The All Blacks’ first game of the championship against Argentina marked McKenzie’s first taste at this level since 2021. McKenzie proved to live up to his selection, with his speed proving to be troublesome for the opposition in a dominant 41-12 win over the Pumas. The playmaking standout is off to a strong start towards putting himself in consideration for the Rugby World Cup, which takes place this September in France.

The All Blacks also recently beat South Africa’s Springboks 35-20 to retain the Freedom Cup.

NRL players give media the silent treatment

Rugby League media shouldn’t expect to hear from NRL players during any games soon as they will be turning down their game-day media commitments amid collective bargaining agreement (CBA) discussions being drawn out. The CBA is eight months overdue and has been in negotiation for twenty months in total. The active agreement between the NRL and the Players Association will last until the 31st of October, meaning there is now a fast approaching deadline.

The Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) are prepared to maintain this media boycott for what could be months until a draft CBA is finished and several conditions are met. Returning player benefits and support payments to pre-pandemic levels are of utmost importance to the RLPA in these discussions. The players are also pushing for ownership of their data such as medical records, say in deciding whether to increase the length of the season, and full autonomy when it comes to managing funds for former players with long-term injuries.

(he/him)

Silver Ferns take on new look

The Silver Ferns will be donning an incredible new dress design at the Netball World Cup, created by Te Tairāwhiti tā moko artists Henare Brooking and Maia Gibbs. Recognising the storied history of the Silver Ferns, the duo wanted to reference the heritage and legacy of the team. This came to fruition in their final design that they named Manawarau. Gibbs explained that “Manawarau talks about a beating heartbeat, a singular beating heartbeat that acknowledges players that have come before, that have worn the dress before, that have gone on to do amazing things for NZ netball and bringing it forward to now.”

Five pātiki are placed on the spine of the dress, one for each World Cup the team has won. A red tāniko weaving pattern, Aramoana, also runs around the skirt, symbolising the players’ connection to whānau and culture. There is also a nod to Māui in the form of a lizard on the dress. Brooking notes this is a reference to Māui’s shapeshifting tales, further stating that “it’s about being able to adapt, problem solve and be elusive under pressure.”

Being the reigning champs, the Silver Ferns will be looking to defend their title at the upcoming Netball World Cup which tips off on July 28th in South Africa.

FIFA Women's World Cup will feature Tino Rangatiratanga

FIFA has approved a request for indigenous flags to be used at the upcoming Women’s World Cup, meaning that Tino Rangatiratanga, the Māori flag, will grace all 29 New Zealand matches. For the Australian hosted games, both the Aboriginal flag and Torres Strait Islander flags will also be on display. This change sprouts from a recommendation by the First Nations and Māori cultural advisory panel. On this development, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said that “these significant flags express a spirit of mutual respect, national identity, and recognition of Indigenous cultures for our hosts.”

FLAT FAMOUS

Jess

Nickname: McFucky

Guilty Pleasure: Religiously watching Love Island on someone else's Neon account

Quote: "Are eggs vegetables?"

Molly

Nickname: Mollux

Guilty Pleasure: Getting a full nights sleep

Quote: "Shaka"

Rosie

Nickname: Roro

Guilty Pleasure: Memphis

meltdown gooey caramel

Quote: "Wait how do I get there?"

Nickname: Lozmoz

Guilty Pleasure: Dominating a block of chocolate in one sitting

Quote: "I am blind"

Kayla

Nickname: K-dog

Guilty Pleasure: Curling her eyelashes 100 times a day

Quote: "Let's get legless"

Maddie

Nickname: Madskux

Guilty Pleasure: Mexicali fresh

Quote: "Sorry I have training"

Caro

Nickname: Cazzygstring

Guilty Pleasure: Daily jar of pickles

Quote: "That's what she said"

Lucky Dip Lucky Dip

In this special edition of Lucky Dip, Lucky Dip Live, Canta played matchmaker with over 100 UC students setting them up with their perfect match. We picked a few lucky couples to receive a Rollickin’ voucher and record their experience for Canta. In the hopes they would be a Lucky Dip success story.

Here are the raw unedited results of this week’s lucky dippers…

On Sunday 16th July, at 12pm, I had organised with a girl to meet for our date in town at the Rollickin Gelato Cashel Street store. I was contacted by a girl a couple of weeks in advance informing me that we were the winners of the Canta Lucky Dip Live competition. This was very exciting as in semester one, when signing up, I was unsure if anything would actually happen and if the Canta team would be able to pair me up with a girl who had similar aspirations as myself. I arrive in town and park at the crossing building upstairs, then walk down to gelato on Cashel Street and patiently wait outside for ten to fifteen minutes before a girl arrives. The girl introduced herself and asked if I was also there for the Canta Lucky Dip date. Moments later, we find ourselves standing beside these 20-30 different ice cream flavours, contemplating which flavour we will order as we had been given a shared $20 voucher to use between us. There were unlimited amounts of options. But I had a standard order which was strawberry sorbet. You can't go wrong with past experiences. The girl ordered two different flavours: lemon lime & bitters and berry sorbet. Apparently, once amalgamated, the flavour combination worked well, and both her flavours were delicious.

The girl I met was dressed in very colourful, bright clothing and immediately stood out from the crowd. Straight away, I knew she had a lot of confidence which I admire from a girl. After ordering and being handed our gelato ice creams, we found a seat together and sat opposite each other. We laughed that I ordered two of the same flavours. Then we instantly engaged in conversation and asked each other questions. The girl seems super sweet, kind, caring and has a

The Other Side The Other Side

One fateful day I received an email from someone other than Robyn Cummins. Much to my surprise, I had been offered the chance to go on a Lucky Dip Date! Like a bootleg Avril Lavine cover we were worlds apart, I was the arts student skater boy and he was the management major.

I jogged towards Rollickin as a human embodiment of Switzerland, a bit of a red flag, a horrendous 15 minutes after our agreed meeting time. Yipes. On the plus side, I alerted him to my lateness and I had the voucher so there was no chance he wouldn’t be there. We then quickly scurried over to the assortment of flavours. His decision was quick and confident. His first scoop was strawberry. Was his second scoop a) chocolate b) caramel or c) strawberry?

You guessed it folks, this man was a double strawberry. I respect that he knows what he wants and isn’t as late as me, though.

Christchurch buses really know how to stitch a person up, am I right? Once we got seated our conversation flowed better than the city’s transport network. He was interested in my hobbies, favourite music and movie preferences. I was stoked to be talking about the outdoors: he expressed an interest in the gym and going for hikes which are

bubbly, outgoing and warm personality. I got a genuine vibe from her. My questions were as straightforward as asking her what degree she was taking and if she was also from Christchurch. Beyond this, I discovered that she could speak several languages, including fluent Danish, German and French and praised and complimented her on being bilingual. Her Mum was German and born and raised in the German wop wops. And her dad was New Zealand European. She studied for a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in English and Sociology. Still, she had the IQ of a law and engineering student.

Her favourite movie of all time is Hot Fuzz, and I can totally relate to this. This is one thing I knew we had in common. She really likes Danish music. I laughed and told her I could not understand one word in any Danish song. She has an older brother who is approximately six years older than her and is now visiting and exploring Europe. She works part-time at a shop in Riccarton mall and does a lot of volunteer work. And is highly committed to her studies; an example of this is her finishing her degree and waiting to graduate in August. Still, she wants to continue her academic and education career by taking an internship for six weeks for the first half of semester two.

I cannot speak positively enough about her successful she is in terms of being an academic scholar. Last semester she managed to balance and multitask five courses, which was the same predicament as me. And she still managed to earn and receive a GPA average of 9.0 for the entire semester. I told her this was impressive and that she should be proud of herself

One Side One Side

even if some of her papers were related to medieval times.

She plans to consider her future occupation options and decide where her career lies. She responded that she would like to travel overseas and work as a high school teacher, preferably in Denmark or Sweden. I rated and respected this ambition of hers as I aspire to travel and work abroad In the future as well. I would be based in Las Vegas, America. instead of somewhere in the UK. Overall, the date flowed nicely, and there were barely any pauses or stoppages. We both finished off our ice creams. And the conversation carried on. We showed interest towards each other. Her hobbies were camping, roller skating, skiing, snowboarding and other outdoorsy activities. She knew about last night's All Blacks' result against South Africa and watched the match, which I was stoked about as I am a very loyal AB supporter.

We finished off the date by exiting the Gelato store and going on a brief walk before I drove off for a much-needed relaxing and therapeutic massage after some sore bones and muscles from my first session with my PT at the gym. She was heading home for a flat meeting.

The girl was intelligent, genuine, bubbly, kind, caring, non-judgmental and innocent. She has a cute laugh and is not afraid to be herself and embrace her personality. I really enjoyed the date and wish her all the best with her future endeavours, and I know someday she will find her prince charming to live happier ever after with.

more realistic hobbies than my passions for Snowsports (the club fields beyond Porters learners area were still all closed at the time of our date). I was impressed that he took personal trainer sessions at the gym, if the snow gods continue depriving us of powder I might have to make the switch from snow to protein. He also liked watching sports, particularly cricket and rugby. I mentioned the prior night's All Blacks vs Springboks match which he seemed impressed by, little did he know I didn’t actually watch the game but just heard about it from a mate. Sorry bro.

As for movies he likes Harry Potter, Twilight and Pirates of the Caribbean but said he didn’t read the books. Great words to hear as an English major. Appreciate the honesty though.

Then came the nerdiest question I have ever heard on a first date: where do you like to study? I salute my fellow arts students, shepherded out of the library by the Scottish man in the speaker system, who have little choice after hours beyond Karl Popper and the bike sheds. To keep the conversation positive and flowing I uttered an enthusiastic ‘Karl Popper’ his way. He then asked me where that was so I’m

shocked at how differently we see university. His favourite spot was 8th floor in the library which I respect, it's a great space when you need to be on that study grind but can be a tad scary to get jump scared by everyone's favourite bagpipe throated announcement.

We followed this with a discussion on careers: he is working up the hotel business ladder to one day hopefully own and manage a hotel. It's great that he has this plan as I have no idea what my future holds. I'm impressed that he has the goal of one day owning a hotel in Vegas. While we both have a passion for travelling, his holidays to hotels overseas look quite different to my DOC camping and scungey backpackers on a good day. I was shocked to hear he had only been camping once in his life! To be fair, I think I’ve only been to a hotel once too and it was just to use their free wifi.

I think there are plenty of fish in the sea and plenty of strawberry scoops in the bucket, so I wish my date all the best with finding a romantic someone who fits him better. I am happy living my best life as an over ripened feijoa but I am confident that you will find your strawberry one day. Thank you Canta for the fun experience and free ice cream!

Puzzle Time P u z z l e T i m e

Across

Across

4. The word for food that turns people on

4. The word for food that turns people on

7. Carrie Bradshaw movie

7. Carrie Bradshaw movie

Across

10. Site to make money from subscriptions

4. The word for food that turns people on

10. Site to make money from subscriptions

11. A feeling of being turned on

7. Carrie Bradshaw movie

11. A feeling of being turned on

12. Used by police but also in the bedroom

12. Used by police but also in the bedroom

10. Site to make money from subscriptions

14. What a female can get if they don't pee after sex

Down

Down

1. The theme of Canta's sex photoshoot

1. The theme of Canta's sex photoshoot

2. Most common sex position

2. Most common sex position

Down

3. Miracle if a straight guy can find it

1. The theme of Canta's sex photoshoot

3. Miracle if a straight guy can find it

5. One of the most dangerous sex positions

2. Most common sex position

5. One of the most dangerous sex positions

6. Fruit juice that makes you taste nice

14. What a female can get if they don't pee after sex

11. A feeling of being turned on

15. Bumping "____"

15. Bumping "____"

12. Used by police but also in the bedroom

17. Popular vibrator

17. Popular vibrator

14. What a female can get if they don't pee after sex

15. Bumping "____"

17. Popular vibrator

6. Fruit juice that makes you taste nice

3. Miracle if a straight guy can find it

8. Bruise from kissing or sucking the skin

8. Bruise from kissing or sucking the skin

9. Christchurch strip club

5. One of the most dangerous sex positions

9. Christchurch strip club

13. How Kim K got famous

6. Fruit juice that makes you taste nice

13. How Kim K got famous

16. Fifty shades of "____"

8. Bruise from kissing or sucking the skin

16. Fifty shades of "____"

9. Christchurch strip club

13. How Kim K got famous

16. Fifty shades of "____"

How many words (at least three letters) can you make with the word...

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Leo

Jul 23 Aug 22

As an exuberant Leo you’ve copped some flak for being kind of an ‘attention whore’. Take pride in it, there’s nothing wrong with wanting attention or being a whore. If you feel up to it, get back to your Leo roots and try both.

Scorpio

Oct 23 Nov 21

Someone has a crush on you. You get three guesses. Your first two guesses were wrong. The third… I won’t say. But it’s definitely not the first two.

Virgo

Aug 23 Sep 22

Virgo is, of course, the Virgin. I’m not gonna say you’ll live up to the name, but you are entering a bit of a dry spell. Maybe go find out who’s casting that spell and break the Virgo curse.

Sagittarius

Nov 22 Dec 21

It’s okay that you feel your sexiest and happiest when emptying the shower drain. And it’s really none of my business… but why? And how much do you charge?

Libra

Sep 23 Oct 22

You’re normally the life of the party, but this dreary winter has been a bit of a buzzkill lately. Your ‘sun’s out, buns out’ era is on the horizon – Spring has sprung, and so will you.

Aquarius

Jan 20 Feb 18

Does any other sign have a song in Hair named after them? No way. Sexual freedom is the Aqua legacy. Try something new this week. Free yourself from expectations and let your hair down.

Taurus

Apr 20 May 20

Admit it. It’s not just your wholemeal bread that’s getting a little stale. You should really put in the effort in this week – get a haircut and spruce up the living room. For extra romance, set up a blanket fort with candles. Try your best not to set it on fire.

Pisces

Feb 19 March 20

You’re a water sign, but that’s no excuse to get all wishy-washy about your desires. Pull up a chair and a glass of water and communicate till you get sick of your own voice.

Gemini

May 21 Jun 20

Classic Gemini conundrum, you’re in two minds about something. Buy those shoes, land on a final draft of that letter of resignation, and for the love of God, please clarify your situationship.

Capricorn

Dec 22 Jan 19

Soon you’re gonna get hot and heavy in a brand-new location. That could mean you’ll have sex on the balcony, but sometimes my wires get crossed – maybe you’ll go to a construction site and overheat because you’re wearing too many jackets.

Aries

March 21 April 19

Your love poetry doesn’t remotely compare to your sex poetry. You should actually go into even more detail. There’s definitely a market for it, but you can probably find those sketchy websites yourself.

Cancer

Jun 21 Jul 22

It’s time for a new Sexy Vibes Playlist, mate. Your current one reminds you way too much of your ex and it’s just getting a bit weird. But keep the old one on your Spotify… in the unlikely event you need to break glass in case of exrelated emergency.

Meet the Team

Meet the Team

If you wish to make a complaint or offer some feedback, please email ‘editor@canta.co.nz.’

Imy Rice Digital Editor

Tessa Birch Video Creative Editor

Amelia Ware Video & Digital Asst.

Beccy Arnold Feature Writer

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