New Zealand gonatural naturist magazine December 2014 #231

for health and wellbeing

Croatia Naturally One day last summer AONC - the only naturist club in New Zealand with a gym 231 Dec 2014

ISSN 1177-1887 New Zealand $8.75 Australia $9.75 UK ÂŁ6.99

International Congress of Naturism to be held in New Zealand, 2016

Editor’s letter

J

ust Give it a TRY! This summer our enthusiastic Communications Officer, Donna Miller, kicks off the NZNF summer promotion by encouraging people to “just give it a go!” In fact at a recent function I was attending I was asked what brought me here, the surprising comment to my candid answer was “Oh, I’ve always wanted to give it a try”. Business cards were exchanged and a new friendship formed.

So where was this? I was attending the Tourism New Zealand Business Events Awards Dinner, held in the Mackelvie Gallery in the Auckland Art Gallery.

My all expenses paid trip to Auckland was to join 38 other Conference Organisers to celebrate our successes, due in no small measure, to assistance provided by TNZ Business Events since its inception four years ago.

Kerry Prendergast, Chair of Tourism New Zealand, introduced us to Stephen Joyce, Minister for Economic Development, who then presented each of us with a certificate. I also received a beautiful hand-crafted silver fern brooch.

So join the steering team of June Campbell-Tong, Donna Miller and me and celebrate our successful bid to host the next INF Congress in New Zealand.

Some of us were lucky to spend time in Europe over the winter and if you look carefully at two of our articles, you will notice that Brent Anderson and Wendy and Nick Lowe visited the same naturist beach in Croatia during their European vacations.

Our own travels brought us to many lovely naturist resorts in the South of France. Two months of friends, fun and food culminating in an emotional farewell from friends and family at L’Eglantiere.

In New Zealand, in the north at Ngatuhoa, the annual summer camp held in January is an excellent way of recharging the batteries; and in Rotorua and surroundings you can explore some of the natural gems this wonderful area has to offer.

One day last summer, Graham Macgregor and friends from the US, packed their lunch and went exploring - at Opoutere Beach - and what a beach!

Now here’s a challenge. Auckland Outdoor Naturist Club is the only naturist club in New Zealand with its own gym. That sounds pretty good, as does the Oranui Games Nude Sports Tournament held at AONC during Auckland Anniversary Weekend.

Another popular long weekend during the summer is Waitangi Weekend and the unique opportunity offered in February sounds like the place to meet up in the Far North.

Check out other options for Waitangi Weekend and many other summer events in ‘What’s On’.

And for those of you who are on Facebook, ‘like’ our pages and share our posts with all your friends from here and overseas.

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Kay Hannam Managing Editor

Deadline for the March issue - 17th January 2015 Front cover: Donna, Colleen and Audrey poolside at AONC; Left: Colleen works out in the gym at AONC - Photos by Jeff Norman

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Contents Editor’s letter ....................................................1 35th International Congress of Naturism .........3 Keep calm and celebrate success ....................4 Delegate’s report INF Congress 2014 ...............7 Give it a TRY! ..................................................8 Holidaying in Croatia naturally .....................9 The final final barbecue ................................12 European Vacation .........................................15 Ngatuhoa Naturally .........................................16 Rotorua and surrounds ...................................18 One day last summer ......................................20 The only naturist club in NZ with a gym ...........23 Waitangi Weekend in the far north .................26 NZ Listings Naturist Clubs and Resorts ........28 What’s On .......................................................29 Subscribe to gonatural magazine ................31 International Publications ..............................32 Opinion piece ................................................37 Around & About ..............................................38 Donna, Colleen and Audrey at AONC - Photo by Jeff Norman

Issue #231 Dec 2014 gonatural for health and wellbeing. The magazine for freedom lovers and those who embrace the naturist lifestyle. Published quarterly by the New Zealand Naturist Federation Inc. Registered at the Chief Post Office, Wellington, as a magazine.

Managing Editor: Design & Layout: Printer:

Website:

Kay Hannam Kay Hannam Taieri Print Ltd www.gonatural.co.nz

Contributors: Brent Anderson Neil Faulknor Kay Hannam John Lowe Wendy Lowe Graham Macgregor

Donna Miller Jeff Norman Willem Scuby Mike Ward Peter Woods

Deadline for next issue:

Address all editorial and advertising copy to: gonatural magazine Address: 2704 State Highway 63 Wairau Valley RD1, Blenheim 7271

NEW ZEALAND Phone: +64 3 5722 681 Email: editor@gonatural.co.nz

#232 March 2015 ~ 17th January 2015 This magazine is protected by copyright. No part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means electronic, mechanical, photo­graphic, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of the Editor.

Purchase either the print version or subscribe to the digital edition of gonatural online via: www.gonatural.co.nz

In our desire to present different points of view we publish articles and letters which do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Editor nor the policy of the NZNF.

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GO NATURAL IN NEW ZEALAND 35th INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF NATURISM 16~20 November 2016 Upper Hutt, New Zealand

by Donna Miller INF Congress Steering Committee

W

e are thrilled to announce that Wellington and New Zealand will play host to the 2016 International Naturist Federation World Congress thanks to combined efforts of the New Zealand Naturist Federation, Tourism New Zealand’s Conference Assistance Programme, Upper Hutt City Council and Business Events Wellington.

New Zealand’s bid to host the 2016 INF Congress on the dates of 16th ~ 20th November at Wellington Naturist Club (WNC) was well received and we are honoured to be receiving delegates and attendees to the next Congress here.

New Zealand Naturist Federation National President Wendy Lowe says, “Securing the hosting rights was a collaborative effort and we’re very grateful for the significant assistance and resources received from our bid partners.”

“While the business meetings and events

will be held at Wellington Naturist Club, there are opportunities for each club and naturist park around the country to host the many international visitors and delegates as they tour pre- and post-event,” says Wendy.

We are extremely grateful for the significant assistance and resources received from Tourism New Zealand and also Absolutely Positively Wellington and acknowledge their role in securing the hosting rights.

From registration to venue facilities and accommodation options, our plan is to host a world-class business event and cultural experience. We will make travel information and bookings for attendees professional and easy - with no detail missed.

To host a successful Congress, the NZNF will require much assistance from within our membership nationwide. There will be ways that each club

and member can use their varying areas of expertise to ensure the success and professionalism of the event. Once we have identified these areas, requests will be communicated to the naturist community and any help you can offer will be greatly appreciated.

The Steering Committee will continue to project manage preparations for the Congress, delegating tasks where possible. Updates and information will be communicated via our newsletter and also on the Facebook Page set up for this purpose.

If you have any queries or would like to offer assistance, a dedicated email address has been established.

This is: congress@gonatural.co.nz

gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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KEEP CALM

In September this year, Kay Hannam took time out from her holiday in France to attend the INF Congress in Ireland and presented a bid on behalf of the NZNF to host the 35th International Congress of Naturism 2016 in New Zealand.

AND

CELEBRATE SUCCESS

H

aving arrived in Dublin to a cheery welcome from friends in Ireland, I was driven to the Congress venue at Drumshanbo, early the following morning.

First impressions always count and the Lough Allen Hotel & Spa looked and was, wonderful. A large three storied hotel complex with sweeping lawns and driveway leading to the reception.

A smiling welcome from the ever efficient Bernie, hotel reception manager, and a suggestion that as my room would not be available for a couple of hours, I store my baggage alongside the parcels containing bid documents and banners prepared and sent by Tourism New Zealand and “would I like to have a cup of tea?”

Among many familiar faces in the dining room were Mick and Roz Ayers and Paul and Judy Kirby. The latter were most helpful in assembling the banners “just like putting up an awning” and disassembling them three days later.

The smiling Anja Fischer, with whom I had corresponded several times during the preceding months, greeted me like an old friend with a simple registration format and presented me with my bag and green lanyard and name tag. Anja and her side-kick Sandy were in fact Professional Conference Organisers selected by the Irish Naturist Federation, and provided help and advice when asked for during the ensuing days. In fact I felt as though I was their No.1 priority!

All delegates and attendees were accommodated at the Congress venue in spacious King bedroom suites. Breakfast was held 4 gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

Clockwise left: The assembly during the official welcome, Kay Hannam presides over the New Zealand display, INF Minute Secretary, Helga Panglisch with NZNF Delegate Wendy Lowe. Photos: Kay Hannam.

in the main dining room in spite of this being a ‘regular’ hotel with several visitors not connected in any way to the Congress.

The management had sectioned off a very large room adjoining the main bar accessed by swing doors marked International Naturist Congress.

The room had its own restaurant, private access to toilets, bar and kitchen facilities with doors leading onto a wide balcony (where the flags were strung) overlooking the lawn and lake. This whole area was utilised solely for the duration of the Congress meetings, breaks, lunches and dinners. The only stipulation was if you needed to access the main bar through to the reception and breakfast dining room and then on to the accommodation wing, clothing was required.

Even the spa/sauna/pool had dedicated ‘naturist’ sessions. Understandably many of us took advantage of this.

The meeting area was set up at one end with the three interpreters’ cubicles for English, French and German complete with sound ‘techie’ and equipment located about halfway along one side of the room as well as two loudspeakers. Observers were given ample seating set out in an orderly manner either side of the cubicles and - like the delegates at the table – were provided with remote simultaneous translation equipment. Microphones were placed between every two delegates.

Anja and the owner/manager of the hotel found the best possible place for our New Zealand display, also providing a table complete with white cloth. I used one of

the spare black & white sarongs we purchased for delegates to enhance this.

Next day several delegates began placing their own literature on the table. I had no problem with this as it brought more people to the display. But heck!

You couldn’t miss it! We had a ‘presence’.

I spotted the large pull down screen at the opposite end of the room and the OHP in the ceiling.

The local Tourism Board boss had given a welcome speech along with that of the male half of the Owner/Manager earlier during the media session and presented a video produced by the local Irish region.

I’m thinking to myself “we can do better than that!”

Breakfast was available from 7am with really good service. Selection of fruits, yoghurt, cereals, breads, croissants, jams, butter, juice, plus four hot bainmaries holding sausages, bacon, mushrooms, potatoes, white pudding and fried eggs. Pots of tea or coffee were provided when requested.

Afternoon tea and coffee provided in easy to use urns were set up with a selection of biscuits for attendees to help themselves to. By this time quite a few staff dressed in black were mulling around making themselves useful and all very friendly.

Large round tables were rolled into the conference hall following the ‘opening’ and Thursday afternoon session, laid with the obligatory white table cloths and places for ten persons. There was a long queue the first evening caused by access to only one side of the table where people helped themselves to salads. The hot food was served by staff. The queuing issue was resolved the following evening when the food was placed to enable access both sides.

I wished I had kept the menu but recall a flat white plate with ice-cream and profiteroles and chocolate sauce for dessert. The bar was open for those that wanted a

drink of any sort. Lunch on both Friday and Saturday consisted of a delicious bowl of soup served individually, with large platters of sandwiches and wraps at each table.

The ‘gala night’ was held at the venue. Apparently they were over-subscribed at 100 plus, so we were not taken to ‘Battlebridge’ by coach. A glass of wine was provided for each person. I chose mushroom and chicken vol au vent for my entrée, delicious thick cuts of roast lamb on mashed potatoes for the main, followed by an even more delicious dessert than the previous evening. In all seriousness I should have stopped at the entrée as I was absolutely full! gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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An Irish band provided entertainment in the adjoining main bar every evening. The bar also opened out onto the balcony, creating a very lively atmosphere.

Two outings by coach were held for those not attending the meeting: Friday morning to visit a mine, the following afternoon a tour around a stately garden.

From Day One I was kept busy contacting INF Executive members, both legal and auditors’ commission members and delegates to present them personally with our professional presentation bid and provide an explanation of what our submission entailed.

All INF committee members, plus some of the delegates that showed further interest, were furnished with our feasibility study.

Of course they were suitably impressed.

Italian President Gianfranco Ribolzi and his side-kick Rosita approached me, and. as I understood it, as did others that witnessed the conversation they wanted Italy to be on ‘standby’ for the 2016 Congress.

I really don’t think he wanted it at all, and this was all for show.

We determined that the best time to place the sarongs, magazines and fridge magnets was on Friday afternoon during the tea break and after all the other goodies had been placed by other delegates.

The kleptomaniac that we were made aware of never got a chance to lift one of our ‘pressies’. The sarongs were especially well received and we were approached by several others to purchase them, so we were especially careful to whom we gave the extras.

So now you’re wondering how the actual ‘Presentation’ went. Well it was no surprise to me that the Power Point video link did not work on Anja’s laptop. But I was not going to get upset about it and kept calm, knowing there would be a solution.

Apparently the video clip of the Irish Tourism Board boss

did not work from the laptop either. Would you believe it, but the hotel chef copied the file from the flashdrive to a CD. The owner then operated it from a little ‘music and video station’ adjacent to the kitchen!

Anja agreed this would solve everything! I explained to anyone that would listen that the music on the video clip would give us the emotional edge we required.

It was then a matter of using Anja’s laptop for the Power Point presentation on the flashdrive, and the CD with the video link would be shown directly afterwards.

My biggest concern was timing, as the decision for the Congress 2016 was listed as the last item on the agenda and more than likely around 5:30am on Saturday.

INF President, Sieglinde Ivo, came up with a brilliant suggestion to show the presentation after dinner on Friday evening.

It would be dark, everyone would be in their seats finishing dessert and having coffee. A captive audience!

By the time all these decisions were made the chef was having his afternoon siesta, and it was a couple of hours later that this handsome, black clad fellow gave me the thumbs up!

A podium was set up at the side of the screen complete with hand-held microphone. The owner waiting in the wings to click on the CD after Slide 7 and WOW! As the last slide was being shown I stepped away and a burst of applause came from around the room. Before anyone had a chance to think about where they left off, the video kicked in.

They were mesmerised! More applause! It was very emotional and I was so proud and confident we would win this.

Next day, Saturday, the meeting continued with special interest in the budget. It was obvious the INF Treasurer was not happy about the cost of a Congress in New Zealand. The question arose “How can you set a budget

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for the next two years without knowing where the next Congress will be?”

The answer to that was obvious. “We will make that decision now” says Sieglinde and called for the applications.

NZNF Delegate Wendy Lowe spoke in support of our submission while Gianfranco muttered about it being a lot of work. It was pointed out that a ‘letter’ written in Italian suggesting that the congress be held in Italy, was received late and also not from their federation.

Greg Serow, the Australian Naturist Federation Delegate, spoke for several minutes in support, and

explained that New Zealand naturism is what real naturism is all about. You have to keep your clothes on more than you had them off at Pizzo Greco!

Garmt Kolhorn, from the Netherlands Federation of Naturists reiterated our own views of being an International organisation and strengthening ties from Europe. INF is not all about Europe!

Delegates from South Africa, British Naturism, Spain and many others all spoke enthusiastically about the New Zealand bid.

And so a secret ballot was taken with the end result as you know: 161 to 40 in favour of New Zealand!

34th INF WORLD CONGRESS Delegate’s report from NZNF President, Wendy Lowe

T

he INF Congress was held at Lough Allen Hotel & Spa, in the village of Drumshanbo, Leitrim, Ireland, between Thursday 11th and Saturday 13th September.

The Congress began with introductions and a Press Conference, which we were invited to take part in. As we had probably travelled further than anyone else to attend, there was keen interest in our presence, particularly once the reporters learned that my husband Nick, and I were on a belated honeymoon.

23 delegates from around the world were joined by the members of the INF Central Committee and Legal Council, as well as many observers from the Irish Naturist Association and other federations.

Many motions were discussed, most of them housekeeping and minor rule wording changes. We Kiwis attracted a lot of attention in our black and white New Zealand sarongs, with at least one delegate threatening to steal one. Little did they know that they would all be presented with a sarong on the final day - as a gift from New Zealand.

Following the presentation by Kay Hannam, the conversation quickly turned to “how long does it take to get there?” “How long should we stay?” “How far away is Australia from New Zealand?”

The vote on the location of the 2016 Congress came shortly after lunch on the final day. Italy had submitted a late ‘bid’ – an email in Italian (not one of the official three

Clockwise from bottom left: Delegates assemble for the official photograph, Some of the delegates during the meeting, Delegates from Denmark among the observers, English speaking workshop, Photos Kay Hannam. Steering committee members: Kay, June and Donna, Photo Jeff Norman.

languages of the INF), which was accepted by the INF committee, even though it had missed the deadline.

There was some spirited discussion with one of the funniest exchanges being: Comment: “We are naturists who care for the environment.

Jet planes are not environmentally friendly so we should not fly to New Zealand.”

Response: “The planes are flying to New Zealand whether we are on them or not, so we might as well be sitting in them!”

Finally the secret vote was

held and there was a nervous wait while the votes were counted. We were absolutely thrilled when the result was announced: 161-40 in favour of New Zealand!

The Congress Bid Steering Committee of Kay Hannam,

June Campbell-Tong and Donna Miller did a fantastic job of preparing a top class presentation.

Nick and I were proud to have been able to assist with the presentation at the Congress this year.

gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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NZNF Communications Officer, Donna Miller says that through clothes-free recreation, you can experience real freedom and encourages people to “just give it a go!”

H

ow recently have you just wanted to shake off the burdens and pressures of life, throw caution to the wind and experience that real freedom and pure innocent joy of life as a child again?

This summer the NZNF will be widely promoting naturism and sharing the message that through clothes-free recreation you can experience real freedom and we will be encouraging people to “just give it a go!”

The promotion is targeted at reaching new naturists or firsttimers and, as the title suggests, giving them the confidence to give it a go.

You do not have to be a member of any club or organisation to be a naturist.

We want to encourage anyone interested to start going nude around their home - gardening without clothes in the backyard if it’s private or vacuuming inside too...you’re going to get warm anyway!

Naturists do normal daily activities, just without clothes.

They don’t only lie outside baking in the sun as some people might portray the naturist lifestyle.

To say life is busy is an understatement - it can be downright hectic even overwhelming at times. Work and leisure pull us several ways at once demanding every bit of energy and offering little or no respite or reward in return.

We want to show that you

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can shed the stresses of life, along with your clothes, and experience the many benefits of naturism which are wide and varied. From physical and mental health benefits; to therapy, stress release, pure freedom, and a sense of wellbeing. Along with increased confidence and self esteem, the connection to nature and absorption of natural vitamin D bring a sense of well-being.

We will be sharing where there are clubs and naturist parks around the country, about Free Beaches NZ Inc and also the NZ Naturists group the three options available if someone does want to join an NZNF affiliated organisation and experience naturism with

like minded people.

All posts on our social media sites will have the hashtag “#justgiveitatry” - this means it will be a searchable term, activated by someone clicking on it. Once clicked, the viewer will be presented with a series of posts by ourselves and others that feature those words.

We encourage you to share our social media posts so that your friends and family can discover more about the naturist lifestyle.

So this summer, encourage those you know that whether at home, at a beach or a club...to just give it a try! You know they will not be disappointed with how set free and wonderful they feel.

Holidaying in Croatia naturally

After three weeks travelling around Europe at a rather hectic pace, Brent Anderson planned to spend the last ten days resting and relaxing. Croatia seemed like a destination worth exploring and where he could mix sightseeing with naturism. He flew to Dubrovnik in the south, and hired a rental car to drive through Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia, before flying out of Zagreb in the north.

T

hose who say Croatia is the next big tourist destination are behind the times, it’s already huge. Tourists have already taken over Croatia in a big way. 30,000 tourists a day arrive by cruise boat alone and the city makes 22 million Euro a year just from tourists paying to walk around the city walls.

I had booked into a guesthouse on the Lapad peninsula where much of the accommodation is and near to the Cava clothing optional beach.

However, with flight delays and navigational challenges with the GPS it was 7pm by the time I was heading off in search of the beach. From the guesthouse it was about a 15 minute walk down to Copacabana Beach. From there I carried on around the coastal track to Cava beach.

Towards the end of the beach is a rocky outcrop and past there is the naturist area.

On the cliffs above this section of beach someone has spray painted in metre high letters ‘FKK’, not the most environmentally friendly way to point out a naturist beach!

The beach has stones of varying sizes rather than sand, between rocky areas. It was only about 5 metres wide and 50 metres long, with steep cliffs behind. At this time of night there was noone else on this section of beach, but it was a nice place to

watch the sunset.

Next day I headed into the old town of Dubrovnik to see the sights then caught the ferry for the 15 minute trip out to Lokrum Island. The island is a nature reserve with no vehicles. From the wharf I headed up to have a look at the Monastery Complex.

The bush on the island is rather sparse and dry compared to New Zealand. It is known for the peacocks and I saw plenty of them as I walked around. After a morning walking it was time for a swim to cool off, so followed the signs to the FKK beach.

There are signposts showing the way and then ‘warning’ signs advising that the track leads to the nudist beach.

Above the beach is a bar specifically for that area. When I emerged down the path there wasn’t any beach at all. The area is all rock from the tree line to the water. It’s a case of finding a flat area of rock to lie down, then climbing down the ladders attached to the rock into the sea for a swim.

It was a beautiful day (about 32 degrees) and so enjoyable that I spent most of the afternoon lying in the sun and swimming, with a couple of visits to the bar, and didn’t end up checking out the rest of the island.

Later, I caught the boat back to Dubrovnik and took the cable car up Mt Srd to see the views out over the city and sur-

rounding islands, which was well worth it.

Then I headed back to Lapad and to Cava beach.

Being early in the evening there were still plenty of people on the beach. At 6pm the temperature was still in the mid 20s, so I was able to have a swim and enjoy the sunshine.

The beach was all stones as before, with rocky outcrops, including barriers of rocks about two metres out into the water, which you need to climb over to have a swim. Being slightly warmer that night, several people stayed on the beach to watch the sun set.

After sightseeing in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a stopover at the beautiful Plitvice Lakes National Park, I headed to Baska at the southern end of the island of Krk. I had booked a trailer home in the Bunculuka Naturist Camp. The camp has about 400 sites around a private bay, surrounded by hills.

The sites are tiered up the hillside so most sites have a view of the sea. As well as all the usual camping ground facilities, on the beachfront there is a small supermarket, restaurant, cafe and bar for campers.

I arrived there about 9pm at night and although it was starting to get dark, I was somewhat surprised to see that everyone was fully clothed. After getting myself orgonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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ganised I headed down to the restaurant for dinner and then to the bar for a further drink. There was a band (singer and guitarist) playing in the bar area, which made for a nice atmosphere right by the sea.

Each day I was on the Croatian Coast the temperature was between 30-33 degrees, making it very pleasant for sunbathing and swimming. Even by 11am the beach was just about full, with all the sun loungers and thatched umbrellas for hire taken.

During the day I went to the cafe for refreshments a couple of times and also for a walk along the beach, then each time having trouble finding a space large enough to lay down my towel.

The majority of campers were family groups, as well as couples, but hardly any singles.

With so many young families the average age would have been a lot younger than for naturists in NZ. The camp also employed activities staff who organised a weekly schedule of all sorts of events, including kids’ games and twice daily water aerobics.

The following day I went on an organised kayak trip. It was advertised as a free one hour guided trip for campers, but we ended up being away about two hours and the ‘kayaks’ were actually flat topped surf skis.

It was great paddling off only having to wear a lifejacket and taking only a water bottle and camera. We paddled for about 45 minutes past three or four bays before we headed into a beach. There were a couple of groups of people on the beach, who didn’t seem to mind a group of kayakers pull their kayaks up onto the beach and going for a swim.

Once back at the camp I had about an hour for swimming and sunbathing before it was time to leave for the 2 1/2 hour drive north to the Valalta Naturist Resort.

The resort is huge, with different accommodation options for about 6,500 campers. There are seven restaurants and as well as seven bars and even their own brewery.

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There was a running/walking track around the perimeter that was over 9 kms long.

Once checked in I located my bungalow and wandered off to explore the camp. I was lucky to be near the centre of the camp and my walk did cover a bit of territory, but didn’t see either end of the camp. I’d worked out the surroundings and it was time for a swim, so I headed to the closest beach, which was sheltered by breakwaters and near the marina.

Around the grounds it seemed like there was a sun lounger for each guest, but it was still hard to find a spare one. I laid my towel on the grass and went for a dip. The water temperature was just right to cool off on a hot day, however, the water quality wasn’t too good, so I decided to try the pool. This was a good option as it was beautiful.

There is a large rectangular pool, which was about 1.5 metres deep, attached to a circular contoured pool and also a kids’ paddling pool. Also a smaller pool with a swim up bar. I managed to snare a sun lounger in the pool area, so spent the rest of the afternoon swimming and sunbathing.

The majority of guests were European, with many different languages heard. However, everyone I spoke to could speak English and the activities staff’s announcements were in four languages.

Again the majority of people were family groups, but I also noticed groups of teenagers. I guessed they were there with their families, but with the size of the camp they could get away and hang out with people their own age.

The main restaurant serves standard hotel type buffet breakfasts and dinners, which can be paid for when booking. I had selected the breakfasts, but wanted try different options for dinner. I chose a bar right on the beach to watch the sun set and then chose the restaurant closest

to my room, as they also had the band which played a good selection of western style music. The Europeans seemed to know the songs, with the dance floor full most of the time.

After breakfast I headed over to the water slide I had seen the previous day. This was the enclosed tube type they have in large amusement parks and there was a queue of young (and not so young) people waiting for a turn.

It was a fun trip down and I had a couple of turns. I found a spare sun lounger on a small rocky peninsula. In this area the water quality was far better

than where I had swum yesterday. There were also rafts and large inflatables moored close to the shore for people to climb on and dive off. After a visit to the pool bar for lunch, I found another spare sun lounger and spent the afternoon by the pool. Later, I headed down to the bar by the beach to watch the sun set again before heading to the Pizzeria and back down to the bar.

My next stop was Ljubljana in Slovenia - a 2 1/2 hour drive.

I didn’t want to leave and stayed there swimming and sunbathing until I really had to go.

The Croatian coast is a great

naturist destination, right up there with the Greek Islands and south of France. Valalta is the biggest resort, but there are plenty of other naturist camps, resorts and beaches along the coast. Croatia is well worth visiting just for a couple of weeks rest and relaxation, or for a couple of days added on to a visit to other countries.

Want to know more about naturism in Europe?

The Naturist Holidays World Site Directory has all the info. See the advert on page 33 or email editor@gonatural.co.nz

gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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The final final barbecue After thirteen summers helping at L’Eglantiere in the Hautes-Pyrénées, Brian Williams (affectionately known as the ‘Kiwi Chef’) handed in his apron. Kay Hannam describes the ‘last hurrah’

B

rian and I first travelled to Europe together in 2000, attending the INF Congress in Hanover, followed by a six week stint at Le Vallon des Oiseaux in Provence during the following two summer seasons. France 4 Naturisme respresentative, Sue Piper suggested we help at a French owned campsite. And so began our long association with Famille Feraut at L’Eglantiere.

In Nude with Attitude I described the mixture of apprehension and excitement as we drove into this beautiful resort in the Pyrenees for the very first time. Our experience living and working at a French naturist resort has been one of the most significant times in our lives together. Not only did we become firm friends of their parents and grandparents, we have watched the children grow into talented and beautiful young adults. Brian has become like a grandfather to now 18 year old Remi and the slightly younger Suzy. The eldest daughter Julie has often featured in gonatural as have her siblings and several friends.

During those early years I dispensed the daily bread and croissants, newspapers, and grocery items. La Epicerie was also a congenial place in which to meet the many Dutch, French, English and Spanish visitors and learn a little of their language and where they lived.

Having taken over the Editor’s position of gonatural magazine in 2007, I chose not to travel, and had a break until we attended the wedding of Isabelle and Xavier near Bordeaux in 2009.

Since then we have enjoyed the pleasant routine of Brian leaving in June to make himself indispensible for a couple of months while I enjoy time with family, working furiously during the last couple of weeks to make sure the magazine was at the printers by early August, before our holiday together in France.

This year held a last for Brian and a first for me as I bravely tackled the river Ger in a canoe. Canoeing is just one of the fun activities provided for young and older naturists alike at L’Eglantiere. I can now understand why canoeing is so

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enjoyable, even though I was pretty nervous careering along the swiftly flowing river, and suffering Brian’s ‘flour bombs’ from above.

Brian, who is a registered plumber and craftsman drainlayer, always reckoned he had moved up the food chain when he began taking an interest in cooking. And the personnel at L’Eglantiere, mostly young Dutch and French students, soon appreciated that with Brian preparing their lunch they would be assured it would be a nutritious and satisfying meal

and turned up at 1pm sharp.

Perhaps the most fun for Brian was preparing the meats and salads for the weekly barbecue, held each Monday.

The communal meal is held on the terrace overlooking the swimming pool, and follows the ‘welcome drink’ and explanation of the region by Xavier who introduces his wife, Isabelle, and their family, plus the personnel, including the Kiwis who can fly!

Imagine the emotion, when this year we were invited to sit up front with the life-size

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Pink Panther between us (how many years has that stuffed animal been around?) Xavier made a speech thanking Brian for being there for him and for the memorable discussions both good and bad (the latter he described as an education).

He was joined by the rest of the family and personnel to sing a rousing tribute “Oh Brian and Kay” to the tune of Champs Elysées.

Julie and Suzy then gave a beautiful rendition of Bryan Adams (Everything I Do) I Do It for You with Remi accompanying them on the piano. Did I say we were feeling emotional?

The next few weeks were spent visiting friends and staying at other favourite naturist resorts; Mas de Ligniers, La Grande Cosse, Belezy and Le Vallon des Oiseaux.

I took a side trip to Ireland for the INF congress, followed by a week with friends who spoilt us rotten in their 17th Century home in Barjac in the Ardeche.

All too soon we were back at L’Eglantiere and were provided with comfortable accommodation for the

remainder of our stay. We made time to drive over the winding Col du Tourmalet to visit Gavarnie, a spectacular area in the Hautes-Pyrénées.

We also arrived back in time to see the monthly concert. All three children and some of the personnel were taking part in the concert which is usually held in a large sports stadium, in a different town each month.

Always leaving things to the last minute, Xavier drove our little Peugeot and we were fair humming along the motorway at times reaching 180kph. The rest of us breathed a collective sigh of relief that (a) we arrived safely and (b) we hadn’t missed much of the performance.

As was the case last year, we were treated to a polished performance by more than fifty talented musicians and singers.

Never have I seen New Zealand audiences react as the French people do.

Then more farewells at the collective meal held on Wednesday where we were offered a choice of Confit or Maigret de Canard. More

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rousing songs from the Basque country with six young electrical engineers working in the area and celebrating their last night on the campsite.

A special farewell dinner was held in our honour with the family and the remaining personnel.

Xavier and Isabelle poured several flutes of Champagne for the first of many toasts.

Brian’s favourite starter with masses of deep fried Calamari.

But imagine the look on his face when Isabelle then dished up Paella for him. The lip went

down as he is not a fan of rice, except in pudding. The Chef, Gilbert, had the last laugh as he brought out a huge bowl of steaming hot Gambas (King Prawns), Brian’s favourite food and set it down before him.

At the end of the evening Brian was presented with a specially labelled bottle of Armagnac and a rugby ball complete with the trademark ‘Gilbert’. A reminder of a memorable period in our lives.

Next year we plan to be back for their 30th Anniversary celebrations.

European vacation Wendy and Nick Lowe set off on a belated honeymoon in Europe

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n Friday 15th August, we set off on our European Vacation.

First stop, after 39 hours was Rome and a full day of sightseeing. Then it was off to Florence for a couple of days, a half-day trip to Pisa and then Venice – where we even managed to quickly snap a nude pic.

Next we jetted off to Spain, where we visited Playa del Torn, a popular naturist beach.

We stayed nearby for two nights and took the opportunity to take another nude photo.

Nick was in his element when we reached Andorra where the winter ski areas become summertime mountain bike parks.

He even managed to strip off for some nude selfies. I didn’t see much of him while we were there, but enjoyed chatting with other bikers between their rides. Andorra is absolutely beautiful and we are both keen to return some time.

France was next, with a brief stay at the naturist village at Cap d’Agde, marred only by my run-in with a dog.

Not letting that daunt us we spent two nights in Paris and

managed to see many of the sights, finishing with a show at Moulin Rouge.

After two weeks in Europe it was time to head to Ireland, where we spent ten days touring in our rental car, making the obligatory stop at Blarney Castle to kiss the stone.

Nick made it his mission to run all twelve peaks over 3000ft, the last one on a day that reached 27 degrees, so he was able to strip off for most of the run.

Finally, we arrived in the little village of Drumshanbo to attend the 34th International Naturist Congress.

Ireland has quite strict laws on nudity, so there was a lot of interest in the Congress. On the first day we were involved in a publicity shoot for a couple of newspapers and once they found out we were on honeymoon the story appeared in four newspapers including a front page!

It was a sad day when we said goodbye to all our new international friends and drove back to Dublin to return home. Our flight was delayed half an hour, which

meant that when we arrived in Frankfurt we only had half an hour to make our connecting flight.

It is a huge airport so we had to run 500 metres, catch a train to travel a kilometre then run another 500 metres to get to the boarding gate!

Fortunately we made it and arrived home on the 17th of September. gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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Ngatuhoa Naturally

The annual naturist summer camp held at Ngatuhoa in 2014 was a little cooler than usual during this time of the year. Willem Scuby reports a tropical low was spinning its way down the west coast, bringing heavy rain to parts of the North Island and the low brought a southerly flow to the east of the country, keeping the overall temperature down with a chill in the shade.

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t didn’t dampen the atmosphere amongst the participants. With some planning around the weather forecast, an early morning hiking trip was organised for Sunday to try and catch a glimpse, and the call, of the kokako in the DOC managed protection area. We did hear a few calls, but couldn’t tell for sure, and we may have been too late for more. Perhaps an overnight stay in the area next year will be a better option.

The area is quite amazing, with several stream crossings, some steep hills and tracks that sometimes almost seem to disappear even though they are well marked. The sound of several small rapids could be heard along the way, but exploring these had to wait till another day.

Ngatuhoa Naturally has a very special appeal, at least for me and I believe that is the same for the people that come here every year, some already for about 25 years. The facilities have improved over the years and there are hot showers (with heated floors), solar panels for hot water, with a back-up wood fired boiler system. Electricity is provided by their own hydro-power station, which also powers the large walk-in fridge.

There is plenty of space to sleep, whether you bring your campervan, tent, or sleep in one of the available bunks.

Some people take great delight in organising their own gourmet meals. Those arriving on the first Saturday are encouraged to bring frozen chicken to be roasted for a communal dinner on Monday night (all else supplied free). On Wednesday or Thursday there is a free barbeque, and on Friday another communal dinner is enjoyed, with ice cream and Pavlova to top it off.

Nibbles appear on most afternoons with a happy-hour thrown in for good measure.

On other days, with excellent cooking facilities, you can easily prepare your own meal, whether this is a 7-course meal or a readymade pack heated in the microwave.

The special appeal of a week at Ngatuhoa also comes from the relaxed atmosphere.

There are no strict rules about nudity and that seems to appeal to some of the new-

comers, who might be a little reluctant at first to strip down. The only rule is that you are not offended by nudity. Some people are nude from the moment they arrive until they – reluctantly - need to put on some clothes when they leave. Others may stay partly dressed for most of the time, but this doesn’t worry anyone. The author has been able to prolong the week by driving naked from home to Ngatuhoa and back, adding about 6 hours of additional freedom.

Being a youth camp for most of the year, the area is considered safe for kids and offers various options for entertainment.

Swimming and kayaking in the relatively shallow canal is great fun and at the inlet side, next to a small ramp, you can even swim without going anywhere, as long as you keep the same pace as the flow of the water. Supervision is of course parents’ responsibility, unless arranged beforehand.

The area provides excellent opportunities for long or short walks. Hiking to the Te Rere I Oturu waterfall is one of the highlights. The return trip takes the better part of a day, but there is plenty to see along the way, including rainbow trout in the river.

The landscape is mainly a variety of trees and bush and though it is mid-summer, the temperature is quite mild. If you’re not into

a long walk, you can stroll to the Ngatuhoa Falls and enjoy a swim in the cool pool under the falls.

More adventurous people may explore some of the features that are part of the Kaimai Hydro scheme. This is an ingenious system of dams, tunnels, canals and pipes diverting some of the water flow to a series of small power stations.

Those who prefer to take it a little easier during their holiday at Ngatuhoa, can still get their daily exercise with Petanque and Croquet being played on most days.

A nature trail provides information on plants and trees growing in the area. In the evening, a short stroll ‘just around the corner’ lets you enjoy the glow worms lighting up the vegetation growing on the rock wall along the road. The lodge has a nice library and a log fire for when it gets a little chilly at night.

A week in Ngatuhoa is an excellent way of recharging the batteries. Personally I think it feels more like reconditioning; preparing for another year of hard slog. (Just kidding).

Next year’s annual summer camp will be held from Saturday 17 to Sunday 26 January 2015.

For up to date information visit www.ngatuhoanaturally.org.nz gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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Rotorua and surrounds

Peter and Mike from Guysers Gaystay bed & breakfast in Rotorua City took a few naturist guests exploring some of the natural gems this wonderful area has to offer – au natural of course!

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any people know Rotorua for its thermal parks, geysers, mud pools, Maori culture, mountainbiking and high adventure tourist activities.

But did you know that Rotorua and the nearby surrounds offers several options for avid naturists to explore? Apart from the cost of petrol, exploring these areas doesn’t cost a thing.

We started our morning adventure with a trip to Rainbow Mountain – about 25 minutes drive south of Rotorua City towards Wai-O-Tapu. Although this is a fairly popular walking track with tourists hiking to the summit, if you are fortunate enough to be the first ones at the carpark you can guarantee you’ll be the first on the track.

When we arrived we were lucky enough to be the first, so as soon as we walked into the bush we stripped off, put our clothes in our backpacks and began our enjoyable and free nude walk to the summit.

The walk to the top of Rainbow Mountain is an interesting one with an aqua blue geothermal lake towards the bottom, multi-coloured steaming cliffs, native bush with many birds, and a fantastic 360° view at the top that overlooks Taupo to the south and Mt Tarawera to the north.

During the summer months, the fire watch tower at the summit is manned, so it pays to get dressed just before reaching the watch tower so as not to distract the watchman from his fire duties!

The continual uphill climb to the summit warranted a much-needed rest to catch our breath. We had a picnic lunch while admiring the view and took some photos.

It was a bit breezy up there so we packed up our rubbish and got ready to go back down.

We put on our shorts (so as not to startle anyone walking up!) and made the decent down the mountain and then continued on to Kerosene Creek for a swim.

Kerosene Creek, for those who don’t already know, is a natural thermal stream that flows between 36° and 39° depending how much rainfall there has been that can affect the temperature. The road down to Kerosene Creek is unsealed and has many potholes, so drive slowly. Now

that Kerosene Creek is mentioned in just about every guidebook available, it has become a very popular place for tourists to visit (mainly textiles). However, it is still possible to go skinny dipping here at various spots along the stream, or if you are lucky enough to get to the main waterfall first. If passersby do spot you in the nude, generally they are fine with it as it is a non-commercialised natural area, so it goes with the territory.

After a relaxing soak at Kerosene Creek we wanted to take our guests from Switzerland to one more place we call The Secret, Secret Spot! Because I am writing this article for a naturist magazine, I think it’s OK that I tell you where it is without the danger that it will be picked up by every tourist guide that exists! The Secret, Secret Spot is basically located just before you arrive at the Lady Knox Geyser at Wai-OTapu Thermal Wonderland. Go here after midday, once the tourists have finished viewing the geyser that goes off at 10:15am everyday. Park your car near the barrier arm that will be closed after the last tourists have left the geyser area (do not park your car directly in front of the barrier arm or you

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may get in trouble). Walk down this road for five minutes until you almost reach the entrance to the geyser itself. (Note: the gate to the geyser will be locked once the morning show is over, so you will not be able to view this). You will hear a stream that goes underneath the road through a culvert and you will see a track that leads into the bush on the right hand side. The bathing spot is just one minute walk away complete with a secluded bathing pool and lovely hot waterfall.

The water at this bathing spot is a little muddier than at Kerosene Creek, but it contains the same minerals that are good for the skin. If you want to get a good shoulder massage under the waterfall wear rubber flip-flops or Crocs on your feet as there is hot water bubbling up through springs on the bottom that can be very hot indeed. As with any thermal water, do not put your head under or get any water up your nose.

If you would like to know more about the areas that are mentioned in this article or other naturist options in Rotorua please contact Peter at enquiries@guysersgaystay.com

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One day last summer After the Rotota Roman Campout, our USA visitors came to Tauranga for a few days. Claudia asked Graham Macgregor about Opoutere Beach, about 70 km from Tauranga, having heard that it was clothing-optional...

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unch packed, and after a drive through some rain in the hills we walked from the public car park through the pine forest, with the day now sunny and warm. On the beach, the immediate reaction is WOW! The beach is about 6km long, stopped by a cliff 5km to the north, and 1km south to the sand-spit with the channel to the estuary. Much of the sand-spit is roped off as the area is a nesting place for the New Zealand dotterel, and a bird sanctuary.

We walked 200m from the track, and Claudia looked a little concerned as I peeled off about 100m from textiles (clothed) people. The beach was almost deserted, and it is known to be clothing-optional. NZ law is clear: there are no designated naturist beaches and nudity is not illegal, but bad behaviour is illegal!

Alexander built a structure with driftwood and sand then went swimming with Claudia. A hot day, a gentle swell with the tide going out and the sea cool.

After eating lunch, we left our gear and walked along the beach northwards. Claudia and Blair used their umbrellas as sun-shades, realizing the NZ sun has quite a bite to it. Alexander was in a world of his own as we walked, playing, kicking the sand and water, and just enjoying the moment.

Returning, we decided to walk south around the sand-spit and estuary to return to the car. In previous years the roped-off nesting area was mostly the centre of the sand-spit, but this year right to the edge of the

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estuary, meaning we had to retrace our steps on the beach side. I’m glad of this, as we saw a dotterel chick, the first I have seen. The birds nest on the sand, with both bird and nest blending in with the surroundings. The chick (probably a teenager, really), was half the size of its anxious mother, same colour but fluffier (just out of the hair-drier maybe?) and running around with the mother following about 2m behind.

Alexander came with me as we went through the pines and native trees, talking about vegetation, birds, landforms, and insects. He was pleased to spot a cicada exoskeleton on a tree, and listening 22 gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

to the birds calling.

Claudia asked if we were near Katikati Naturist Park, and with it being on our way home, I phoned Kevin for permission to visit. Food was bought, and the usual welcome at KNP impressed the visitors. I gave them a quick tour around the pristine grounds and friendly people, before having a swim and dinner. It really is nice to be welcomed like this.

Home, after another great day.

Opoutere is not just a beach, this is the real New Zealand, giving visitors the “Wow!� experience to their travels.

THE ONLY NATURIST CLUB IN NEW ZEALAND WITH A GYM When some members of the NZNF Executive visited Auckland Outdoor Naturist Club in May, we were proud to be told that we were the only naturist club in NZ with a gym. Jeff Norman reports that since May it has been improved further and now has a variety of equipment suited to most needs.

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t all started a few years ago when Ivan put his Bowflex machine in a shed for members to use.

It wasn’t used much until Syd re-joined the club a couple of years ago. Since then he has built our gym up by persuading the committee to buy some equipment and getting members to donate or lend equipment to the club.

Now we have three pieces of cardiovascular equipment including an exercise bike and a new rowing machine (which was installed a few days after these photos were taken). If the weather is OK, you can also run or walk around our beautiful site. We have the Bowflex machine which can be gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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easily set for different weights and used for a programme of exercises to build up different muscle groups. We have a bench and various free weights that can be used in many ways.

There are also an exercise ball and some mats for crunches and stretches which can be done on the floor.

Each member wishing to use 24 gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

the gym gets shown around

by Syd and, with his help, can devise an exercise programme uniquely tailored to their needs and wishes. We also have some charts with exercise groups for different purposes. A couple of workouts a week are a good start.

Members can conduct their workouts at any time of the day

or night. After the workout, we can use the club’s shower facilities and have a sauna and a spa. We also have the kitchen for refreshments and, if the weather is suitable, members can use our swimming pool or relax on the lawn.

The gym and all of the other facilities mentioned are included in club membership.

The next thing is for me, personally, to give up my membership of Westwave in Henderson because the club gym is so convenient for me and the cost is nothing.

Meanwhile Syd has his wish-list and the committee will look for opportunities to improve the facilities over the next few years.

What started as a machine in a dusty shed has been developed with much effort from Syd in particular into something we at AONC are really proud of. “AONC is the only naturist club in New Zealand with its own gym�. That sounds pretty good! gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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Waitangi Weekend 2015 Three days of opportunity in the far north Supported by Northland Naturists, Free Beaches NZ offers you a unique opportunity in the Far North. All naturists are invited to a large private campground for the three day Waitangi weekend: 6 - 8 February 2015.

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rom the happy hour centrepiece, endless possibilities radiate from around the extensive grounds to not only several beach possibilities but also to several local homestaysfor those taking this opportunity to explore the Far North.

In the camp itself, facilities range from flush toilets to a good kitchen, taking in hot showers (and the possibility of a spa) on the way. There is plenty of room for campervans and tents along with any games you fancy (BYO equipment).

Just one exception: no golf – but then these grounds are right next to the world-renowned Kauri Cliffs golf course, so that is available (though clothing would probably be required there).

After a pleasant time tossing Frisbees or batting tennis balls with the kids, jump in the creek across the northern end of the camping area or go for a bush walk in the reserve (that’s still part of the 30 acre property). Or just lie under one of the plentiful trees around the camp.

During one or two of the three lovely days we’ve ordered, a visit to Wainui Bay – just 15 minutes away – is one of several options on the beach front. While you’re up here, there are another ten beaches on the way north to Cape Reinga or even greater numbers on the way south, including the iconic Uretiti Beach just south of Whangarei, that you can visit before returning home.

Extend your stay to take in some of the attractions to the west, such as Tanemahuta in the Waipoua Forest, or the Kauri Museum at Dargaville. Yes indeed: endless possibilities can arise 26 gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

Naturist accommodation options in your northern sojourn include Bush Haven, Northland Ostrich & Emu, Waitata Bay and Oakleaf Naturist Homestay – contact details for these are also available from fredbear@freebeaches.org.nz

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New Zealand Naturist Clubs and Resorts North Island: Waitata Bay Bay of Islands Tel: 09 403 8586 Email: waitatabay@waitatabay.co.nz www.waitatabay.co.nz Eden Naturally 510 Owhiwa Rd, Onerahi Parua Bay, Whangarei 0192 Phone: +64 9 436 1938 Email: info@edennaturally.co.nz www.edennaturally.co.nz Auckland Naturist Orewa aka Hibiscus Coast Sun Club Inc. PO Box 128 Orewa, 0946.

Tel: 09 427 6484 Mob: 027 1357545 Email: hibiscus-coast@gonatural.co.nz www.aucklandnaturist.co.nz Auckland Outdoor Naturist Club Inc. PO Box 95235, Swanson Waitakere 0653.

Tel: 09 833 9209 Email: aonc.sec@gonatural.co.nz www.aonc.org.nz Auckland Sun Club Inc PO Box 20257 Glen Eden, 0641 Auckland Tel: 09 814 9973 Email: asc@gonatural.co.nz asc.gonatural.co.nz Counties Sun Club Inc. 112 Ramarama Road, Ramarama Drury RD3, Auckland 2579 Tel: 027 296 2795 (grounds) Email: counties@gonatural.co.nz www.countiessunclub.com Waikato Outdoor Society Inc. PO Box 619 Hamilton 3240 Mob: 027 631 6883 Email: waikato.outdoor@gonatural.co.nz waikato.gonatural.co.nz Katikati Naturist Park 149 Wharawhara Road RD2, Katikati, 3178.

Tel: 0800 4 567 567 Email: info@katikati-naturist-park.co.nz www.katikati-naturist-park.co.nz Bay of Plenty Sun Club Inc. PO Box 22 Matata, 3194 Tel: 027 440 5157 Email: bopsc@gonatural.co.nz bopsun.gonatural.co.nz Rotota Sun Club Inc. PO Box 1164 Taupo 3351.

Grounds: 07 333 7105 Email: rototasunclub@gonatural.co.nz rotota.gonatural.co.nz

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Taranaki Naturists Club Inc.

297 Brown Rd, RD42, Waitara, 4382 Tel: 06 752 3879, 06 754 4658 Mob. 027 444 2941 Email: taranaki.naturists.club@gonatural.co.nz www.taranakinaturistsnz.com

Wai-natur Naturist Park 2704 State Highway 63 Wairau Valley, RD1 Blenheim 7271 Tel: 03 5722 681 Email: info@naturist.co.nz www.naturist.co.nz

Hawkes Bay Naturist Club Inc. PO Box 551 Napier, 4140.

Mob: 027 450 0557 Email: hawkesbaynaturally@gonatural.co.nz hawkesbay.gonatural.co.nz

Pineglades Naturist Club Inc. PO Box 1823 Christchurch, 8140.

Mob: 021 052-2528 Email: pineglades@gonatural.co.nz pineglades.gonatural.co.nz

Manawatu Naturist Club Inc. PO Box 980 Palmerston North, 4440.

Mob: 027 390 4428 Email: pro@mannatclub.com www.manawatunaturistclub.co.nz

South Canterbury Sun Club Inc. PO Box 13 Geraldine, 7956.

Tel: 021 123 5904 Email: scsc@gonatural.co.nz scsc.gonatural.co.nz

Wellington Naturist Club Inc. PO Box 2854, Wellington 6140.

Tel: 04 526 7853, Mob: 027 3306 212 Email: secretary@wellingtonnaturists.co.nz www.wellingtonnaturists.co.nz

The Orchard Sun Club Inc. PO Box 5460, Dunedin 9058 Tel: 03 476 3875 Email: orchard@gonatural.co.nz orchard.gonatural.co.nz

New Zealand wide: Free Beaches NZ Inc PO Box 20-295 Bishopdale, Christchurch 8543 Tel: 06 879 9262 or 03 310 6447 Email: fredbear@freebeaches.org.nz www.freebeaches.org.nz

New Zealand Naturists PO Box 16095 Bethlehem Tauranga 3147 Email: nznaturists@gonatural.co.nz www.gonatural.co.nz/nznaturists.html NZ NUDVAN Club Inc. PO Box 619, Hamilton 3240 Email: nudvan@gonatural.co.nz nudvan.gonatural.co.nz Leisure Theme NZ Tour Planning Tel: +61 3 98998676 david@leisuretheme.com www.leisuretheme.com

South Island: Nelson Sun Club Inc. PO Box 33, Upper Moutere, Nelson 7144 Mob: 027 710 8025 Email: sunrise@nelsonnaturally.co.nz www.nelsonnaturally.co.nz

Alpine Lakes Naturist Club Inc. Lowburn Central Otago, 9341 Tel: 0266031439 Email: alpinelakes@gonatural.co.nz alpinelakes.gonatural.co.nz Southern Naturally Inc. Postal address: 68 Clifden Highway RD1 Tuatapere 9691 Tel/Fax: 03 221 7092 Email: southernnaturally@gonatural.co.nz southernsun.gonatural.co.nz

New Zealand Naturist Federation President: Wendy Lowe Mob: 027 363 0407 Email: nznf.pres@gonatural.co.nz Secretary: June Campbell-Tong Tel: 04 2347 918 Email: nznf.sec@gonatural.co.nz PO Box 1359 Wellington 6140, New Zealand www. gonatural.co.nz Communications: Donna Miller Mob: 021 0694014 Email: info@gonatural.co.nz

What’s on

For further contact details, check the listing of NZNF affiliated clubs and resorts on the opposite page, or the website: www.gonatural.co.nz

29 November 2014 Christmas Function Waikato Outdoor Society

6-8 February 2015 Waitangi Weekend Campout Free Beaches NZ

29 November 2014 Evening Orientation Pineglades Naturist Club

20-22 February 2015 Lazing at Lowburn Alpine Lakes Naturist Club

6-7 December 2014 Art Exhibition - Naturist theme Wellington Naturist Club

Saturday 21 February 2015 Nude Adventure on the River Queen Wai-natur Naturist Park

6 December 2014 Christmas Function Taranaki Naturist Club Waikato Outdoor Society 7 December 2014 Hand-fasting ceremony Auckland Naturist Orewa 13 December 2014 Christmas Function Alpine Lakes Naturist Club Bay of Plenty Sun Club Orchard Sun Club 14 December 2014 Children’s Christmas Party

Pineglades Naturist Club

Sunday 22 February 2015 Nude Golf International at Wairau Valley Golf Club Hosts: Wai-natur Naturist Park 22 February 2015 Miniten: Rod Driver Tournament Pineglades Naturist Club 15 March October 2015 K-Cup Yankee Miniten Tournament Orchard Sun club

28 Dec 2014 - 3 Jan 2015 Rapere Film Festival Hawkes Bay Naturist Club

Parakai Springs Naturist Days 1st and 3rd Friday of each month 10am-10pm. Please book as it is comfortable for only 30 persons.

Contact letsgetnakednz@gmail.com Auckland Sun Club Sunday Saunas and Potluck meal Contact: (09) 814 9973 Waikato Outdoor Society Wednesday night Barbecues 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month Wellington Naturists Spa, Sauna and massage Second Sunday of the month 2-5pm Wellington Naturists Catered dinner last Saturday of the month Free Beaches NZ Wellington Region hold a spa night on the first Sunday of each month at Kilbernie Spa. Summer events mainly occur on the first Sunday at Breaker Bay; and third Sunday at Peka Peka Beach.

But if the weather’s right - don’t wait! Email linda.geeves@xtra.co.nz

17-25 January 2015 Ngatuhoa Naturally Alpine Lakes Naturist Club 24-26 January 2015 Oranui Games Nude Sports Tourn.

Auckland Outdoor Naturists Club

Orchard Sun Club Warm swim nights on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month from 5-6pm. $7 payable at the door. In “the cooler months” they also have a Spa and Sauna session on the 1st Sunday of each month from early March, at Lucky 7, Rattray St, Dunedin.

Auckland Outdoor Naturist Club Nude Bingo in the club house Every second Wednesday night

6 February 2015 Volleyball: Pineglades Naturist Club Fire Brigade vs PNC Chow and Chatter Pineglades Last Thursday of each month Naturist Club Taranaki Naturist Club 6-8 February 2015 Fish and chip night Club Waiheke Every Friday at the club Island Trip Auckland Naturist Orewa

Visiting a beach?

If you are planning a trip or visit, to which others are invited, just let us know so we can add it to the list! Likewise: if you’re interested in going, please respond ASAP at: freebeaches.org.nz/ trips/registration.htm gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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30485 Natures-Gonatural NZ AD 5/21/14 3:26 PM Page 1

Uninhibited delights as we visit New Zealand nudist clubs. Hiking, trampolining, nude boat ride and a host of family sports.

Seventy-five minutes..

DVD: U.S. $49 / NZ $56 / AU $53

Visit celebrations at Glen Eden and McConville nudist camps where we see a concert, athletics, water aerobics and more.

Sixty minutes.

DVD: U.S. $39 / NZ $45 / AU $42

Historic first for the Czech Republic. The event was open to male and female, all age groups. Over 300 attendees at this naturist slice of European history.

Seventy-five minutes.

DVD: U.S. $59 / NZ $68 / AU $64

Over 700 photos taken during the course of three summers at Cap d’Agde, France.

Family-sponsored summer camp activities open to the public. DVD: Seventy-five minutes. CD: Over 700 files.

DVD/TV viewing: U.S. $99 / NZ $114 / AU $107 CD/Computer viewing: U.S. $99 / NZ $114 / AU $107

Two full hours of non-stop trailers of twenty-nine different nudist lifestyle/family naturist titles. Nudist families at home, sports, parties, dancing, talent show, exercise, beach, summer camp, body painting and celebrations.

Two hours of trailers of 25 nudist lifestyle titles not seen in Previews 1 & 2. Two days, two groups of naturists at the gym, visits to more naturist families at home, energetic activities at two public swimming pools, a dance social, body painting, sports competitions, skinny dipping beach crowds, yoga class and more.

DVD: U.S. $69 NZ $80 AU $75

DVD: U.S. $69 / NZ $80 / AU$75 All four hours of Previews (two DVDs): U.S. $110 / NZ $127 / AU$119

Payment To: LIFESTYLES (NZ) P.O. Box 4820 Culver City CA 90230 U.S.A. n.e.inc@ca.rr.com

30 gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

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Pineglades The home of Canterbury naturists * Visitor accommodation * Licensed clubhouse * Powered sites * Heated pool * Playground * Spa/sauna * Barbecue Visit us 135 Brookside Road, Rolleston Mobile 021 0522528 Email pineglades@gonatural.co.nz www.gonatural.co.nz/Pineglades

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34 gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

For more information on Australia’s naturist facilities, contact the ANF, PO Box 426, Corinda QLD 4075 Australia Tel: +61 429 452 700 Email: admin@ausnatural.org.au

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Kowhai Heights Clothing Optional Homestay

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Kay Hannam’s memoir relates the nude adventures of one of New Zealand’s best known naturists.

Order online: www.naturist.co.nz Price includes postage and handling: NZD40.00, NZD45.00 Aus, NZD55.00 O/S Phone +64 3 5722681 or email info@naturist.co.nz

Wellington Naturist Club Close to the city - but a world away

• Family friendly environment featuring heated large pool and children’s pool, sauna and spa, miniten and volleyball courts, petanque, pitch & putt golf, children’s playground, large hall, bush walk, barbeque • Cabins, powered and nonpowered campsites • Day visitors welcome

Email wnc.reservations@gonatural.co.nz Tel 04 526 7853 www.wellingtonnaturists.co.nz Valley View Naturist Bush Retreat The only naturist resort in Far North Queensland

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gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

35

Taranaki Naturist Club 297 Brown Road, RD 42, Waitara Spacious campgrounds set in a private rural setting.

Access to river and coastal walks - 10 mins to township.

Fully equipped kitchen - Clubhouse, BBQ area Children’s playground - Swimming pool - Games courts.

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Caravans for hire. Join us by the sea and be welcomed by on-site residents. Enquiries welcomed.

Phone 06 752 3879, 06 754 4658, Mob 027 444 2941 www.taranakinaturistsnz.com ~ Email: tncl@hotmailco.nz

MANAWATU NATURIST CLUB

A congenial naturist environment on spacious private grounds, in a delightful rural setting. We offer: • Full camping facilities with powered sites and kitchen facilities.

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NEW ZEALAND NATURISTS Supporters of naturism in New Zealand For naturists who wish to enjoy the benefits of belonging to the social naturist community throughout New Zealand.

Camping naturally

Members receive the gonatural magazine, newsletters and NZNF membership cards.

To find out more contact the Secretary: PO Box 16095 Bethlehem Tauranga 3147 Email: nznaturists@gonatural.co.nz 36 gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

Wairau Valley Marlborough +64 3 5722681 info@naturist.nz

www.naturist.nz

Opinion piece...

Excerpt from FBNZ President Mike Ward’s address to their Annual General Meeting The greatest threat to our beach lifestyle actually comes from the growth of population of New Zealand and the encroachment of housing development around the fine and once secluded beaches that naturists have enjoyed for decades.

Sometimes newcomers have no idea of the naturist use tradition on these beaches and can be shocked by nudity. We must therefore still be prepared for constant challenges. It never fails to amaze me that well-meaning parents can seek to ‘protect’ their children from the ‘horror’ of the naked human body, but readily expose them to fantasy horror films specifically designed to create maximum shock and awe and emotional trauma in children and young people; sustained with hightech, hi-definition, larger-than-life, surround-sound methods.

It amuses me that the most fearsome man-beasts in these films that readily inflict great barbarity in their fight scenes, have such modesty about their ‘naughty bits’ when they’re otherwise naked. A continual hidden subliminal programming of the collective mind of society is going on here.

Its effect is to brutalise the whole population, but especially the young. The results are all too apparent in the high degree of drug-taking and mindless vandalism that blight all our lives.

Young people who can exhibit such bravado in committing criminal acts are now too shy to take showers in front of their colleagues when they have played sports. Such is the Hollywood ‘morality’ of this age.

As naturists, we have been blessed with a wonderful gift the ability and the insight to be able to see through the illusion and to step out (even if only temporarily) from the mind prison created by our deceitful, exploitative and anti-humane society. Shedding our clothes reconnects us with creation in the most basic, joyous and god-given way: we draw in the wonderful energy from the planet, the elements and the sun.

The others - they’ll just have to keep on trying mind-altering drugs or adrenalin-rushes for their escape. But the drugs offer no escape - just destruction and enslavement of body and mind. We know we have it right, our task is to enlighten the poor lost souls trapped in the mind-prison and the work-buyconsume treadmill of materialism and acquisition.

Mike Ward

Encouraging Nudist Youth It was interesting to read in a recent issue of the magazine, a proposal to once again encourage young people (youth) in the movement. I wonder if the youth are actually there to be encouraged. It is certainly different to the dim distant past when I was involved in the formation of NYC (Nudist Youth Club) as an adult helper (slightly older than the youth at the time).

I joined the Hawkes Bay Club back in 1969 if memory serves me correctly, and so, out of interest I looked back through my magazine copies, personal diaries, and photo albums. The earliest reference to youth I found was an article in issue 50, autumn 1969, where Joan Treanor (Aunty Joan in that issue) reported on a meeting held with 36 youth at the recently held Pineglades rally. It sounded like an interesting meeting with many ideas put forward to cater for youth members, and a Youth Rally was proposed. It seemed the starting (?) age for the group was younger (9 years up) than the mostly teenagers

catered for by NYC. Information continued in Joan’s column, in subsequent issues of the magazine.

I seem to have mislaid issues 54 and 55. Then in issue 56 The Youth Section was written by Ross Eves still with references to a youth rally now to be held at Hawkes Bay. In issue 57 Ross floated an interesting idea, Nudist Youth Hostels. Again I seem to be missing some issues, my next reference being the column by Charles Monod and the formation of NYC, and my earliest memories of NYC at a Wellington rally. Damn, where did all my back issues go?

My next magazine was issue 66 with the long report on the very successful rally we held at Ruatoria on the Fairbrother’s farm following the National Rally at AOHC. Unfortunately the author of the report is not named. I vaguely recall some negative feedback about this time, some rally gone wrong(?) but as I was not involved I can’t comment.

From issue 67 NYC reports were included in the Club news section, with a National Report and a report from an active Auckland branch. Issue 68 is the first reference I see to a Youth Organiser, in this case a good friend from years ago, Kathy. In my next issue, 71 there are no NYC reports but Tony Wood of Auckland is listed as Youth Organiser. The omission was explained in issue 72 with a full NYC report and another report from Youth Organiser Tony Wood, and even a reference to the problematic rally at Pineglades, that I referred to earlier.

I then have a big gap in magazines until issue 81 in which there is no reference to NYC at all, but there was a full report of the NYC Rally at the Outward Bound camp, in issue 82. Issue 86 included a full report by Fred Rebers on the NYC Rally following a Ruatoria Rally (?) that year. The reports I have in subsequent magazines dwindle, but it seemed NYC was still going strong in the late 70’s and early 80’s with Peter Rebers taking over reporting duties. I read an interesting Club report of the Three Bears Club and a report by The Three Bears Junior Group in Issue 98, the first time I’d heard of this club.

In issue 106 the NYC ad was back, plus an article by Robbert Broekstra about “A Worldwide Teenage Nudist Penpals Club”.

Issue 112 in March 1985 contained a full youth report on the Tolaga Bay Rally, and then in the back copies I have it all seemed to abruptly stop – deathly silence. I wonder what happened.

I think it would be wonderful if efforts to rejuvenate a youth movement were successful. In its heyday the Club was very active and events well supported. All in all it was a great place to be, but in my look back through past magazine issues, I also note, as is happening with all sorts of clubs and organisations around the country, a very marked aging of the membership As I said at the beginning of this letter, are the young people actually there? If not, that adds another difficulty to the process of rejuvenation. I have seen young people come with their families to various clubs, only to find they are the only younger ones there. They soon get sick of their own company and probably stop coming.

As an aside to my scanning of past issues I noted in issue 170 a Roll of Honour of past presidents. Missing from the list and pictures was my late father-in-law, Gavin Robieson, president around 1970-71, between Eric Rogers and Brian Banks.

Neil Faulknor gonatural Issue 231, December 2014 37

A ro u n d & A b o u t . . .

Auckland Outdoor Naturist Club

Towards the end of August, Colleen and Dave announced that they were engaged to be married. When I posted this good news on Facebook, it received far more ‘likes’ and ‘comments’ than anything else I have posted on our FB page.

A few days later, Anne organised a wake for her father, Gavin Currie. Members and guests recounted their happy memories of Gavin and, later, Ernie and Donna jammed on our new keyboards.

Wai-natur Naturist Park

Back from our annual sojourn in France, Brian and I are looking forward to a good time at Wai-natur this summer.

The park looked especially welcoming early in October with splashes of colour everywhere and it was so lovely to swim in our own warm pool again.

Those of you who are planning on being here for our annual Nude Adventure on Saturday 21st February will be delighted to hear of our change of plans for the cruise. We have now booked the River Queen for a dinner cruise on the Opawa River. The annual Nude Golf International will be played on the Wairau Valley Golf Course the following day.

There is plenty to do here at Wai-natur and we really need your help! You need to be a physically fit, non-smoking, naturist single or couple, preferably with your own accommodation and would like to live in a secure and peaceful naturist park.

If you enjoy gardening, cleaning and meeting people and would like to help with the park’s operation please give us a call. Hours of work are flexible and by mutual agreement.

Kay Hannam

Hawkes Bay Naturist Club Our 1st Saturday Takeaways each month have included hot dogs, fish and chips and roast dinners. Social events included an excellent Quiz Night run by Andrew and Donna, a jam session by some of our talented members and a Wild Food Evening. Various other events are planned for the next few months including Open Days, Xmas Party and the Oranui Games.

We have had some successful Working and Weeding Bees organised by Georg. We are also looking into getting a new heater for our popular sauna.

A small group led by Jeff is conducting a review of our Constitution and Rules which we hope will be complete early next year.

Altogether it has been a busy few months and there is no sign of a let up.

Jeff Norman 38 gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

Please remember to get your registration in as soon as possible, especially if you require fixed accommodation, which is filling up fast. We still have plenty of caravan, motorhome and tent sites available.

There will be two out of grounds trips during the festival, for which there will be additional charges.

The first is a 4WD trip to the hot springs; this will be a full day trip and you do not need your own vehicle. The cost will be $10, payable to your driver on the day and you will need to bring a packed picnic lunch. Bookings for this will open at the festival.

The second trip is a mystery trip and we will be advising more details of this in the near future. Bookings for this will open in early December, so watch out for further emails so you don’t miss out!

An online registration form is available on our website, or you can download it and post it - the address is on the form.

If you have any queries please feel free to call me - evenings are best - on 027 363 0407 Wendy Lowe

A ro u n d & A b o u t . . .

Free Beaches NZ Canterbury Region

Free Beaches NZ The passing of Joyce Fleming has had a significant effect on FBNZ; particularly for the committee. We now have to discover for ourselves how to fill in the gaps for our national promotional endeavours.

A series of public Polar Plunges were again held around the country in June. For FBNZ, they included Orewa, Petone, and the South New Brighton event that was particularly successful this year – but mention must also made of the events by Dunedin’s Orchard Sun Club at Warrington Beach and Bill McEwan’s Blue Duck swim at Lake Rotoiti (near Nelson).

Our congratulations must go to the Federation’s first, and successful, application by the Steering Committee of Kay, June and Donna to hold the INF World Congress! Now we need to turn our thoughts to means by which FBNZ can help with any of the visiting INF members’ travel itineraries...

Looking ahead, we have a special venture set up for next year’s three day Waitangi Weekend; a campout in the Far North.

The private grounds are about 20 km north of Kerikeri and 15 minutes from Wainui Bay - among several other beaches on our list - that are not too far away. Facilities include hot showers, flush toilets and a good kitchen. There is campervan access and lots of room. Tents also welcome! A sheltered creek runs across the northern boundary (and a spa is a possibility).

Visitors and their friends are most welcome to enquire. For more details phone John: 022 129 1036 or refer to the FBNZ advertisement on page 36.

Contact details are on our advertisement on page 27.

John Lowe

Finally, after at least 18 months, we have access to the pool!.

Free Beaches Canterbury region have resumed their Clothes Free Swim sessions at the Burwood Physio Pool. The season started on Saturday September 20th from 6.30pm until 7.30pm, repeating on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays until November.

There are been some changes to the access and parking areas on which we are still awaiting information and will advise when available.

The Pool Rules and cost remain the same at this point but there may be an increase to the cost next year to cover an increase of cost from the DHB. The current cost remains at $2 per person, meantime.

The Rules are as follows:~ No more than 30 people in the pool at any one time. ~ Everyone must shower before entering the pool. ~ A designated pool supervisor must remain out of the pool at all times. ~ Specifically for us: no clothing allowed in the pool at all (except swim diapers where needed by younger children) As I expected we had a lot of people at the first couple of sessions and in future we may have to ask people to exit the pool so others may have a turn.

Now there’s something to look forward to in Christchurch next winter…

Corey Shelton Free Beaches NZ - Canterbury

Letter to the Editor Hello, In 2013, the Naturist Action Group launched its photo competition, with both winner and runner up coming from New Zealand.

We are now organising the 2015 competition to run over the summer in the northern hemisphere. To give your readers the best opportunity to create a picture for the competition, we just thought it would be an idea to remind your readers of its launch in the European spring.

The picture or pictures should express Living Naturism and comply with naturism as non-sexual social nudity.

Thanks very much, and good luck to all those that enter.

Yours sincerely Reg Barlow Chairman, Naturist Action Group gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

39

A ro u n d & A b o u t . . .

Wellington Naturist Club

It has been great to see the enthusiasm of club members over the winter months and in the lead up to summer. It was also great news to hear that we are to host the 2016 INF Conference.

We have certainly not been in hibernation over winter. Our regular monthly dinners have been well attended. Dinners are organised by members and the income from these provides the essential funding to our club. Dinners usually revolve around a theme. At one dinner members displayed their naturist photos and it was fascinating to see some of the history of the club come alive through these displays.

We use the winter and spring to organise working bees once a month on a Sunday.

These have a focus on tidying up the grounds, maintenance of our buildings, plant and equipment. Again it has been great to see good turnouts at these working bees.

At another dinner members displayed their interests/ hobbies. We are a talented bunch and there were displays of pottery, quilting, paintings, orchids, sporting achievements, free range chooks, fishing, reading, wine making and home brewing.

Another winter activity was a craft day where we learnt how to create some amazing artwork that would look great in any home or garden. Art and naturism seem to go hand in hand.

40 gonatural Issue 231, December 2014

It has also been great to see the number of members turn out for Sunday afternoon tea. Even through the winter we have seen many on the grounds for a catch up and a chat.

We have some “meaty� projects on the go at present. Foremost is the upgrading of our power supply. Much work has already been completed in converting to underground services and we have been working with local power authorities and electricians to ensure we can expand to meet future demand. We’ve also been updating our Members Handbook and Code of Conduct.

Through our planning meetings we have a clear focus on what our members want us to achieve as a club. We are always looking to the future regarding trends, membership and the future direction of naturism in New Zealand.

Brent Anderson

Leitrim County Fire Service Ice Challenge Lough Allen Hotel & Spa, Ireland Back cover: Colleen, Donna and Audrey in the grounds of AONC Photo by Jeff Norman

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