First...A Little Background...

According to online sources the word 'naturism' was used for the first time in 1778 by a French-speaking Belgian, Jean Baptiste Luc Planchon (1734–1781). The word was advocated as a means of improving the 'l’hygiène de vie' or 'natural style of life' and health.

The New Zealand Naturist Federation brings you information about the 'natural style of life', locations where you can enjoy the lifestyle, upcoming events, and news of happenings around the country.

Naturism is a lifestyle choice based on the International Naturist Federation (INF-FNI) definition: 
"Naturism is a way of life in harmony with nature, expressed through social nudity, linked to self-respect, tolerance of differing views together with respect for the environment".

  

Nude recreation - or even just doing normal daily things around the house naked - helps your body to relax quicker. It's almost symbolic - when your clothes come off, so do many of the icons and images associated with the 'daily drudge'! Our bodies were not designed to be almost entirely wrapped in clothing, subjected to artificial light, heat or air-conditioning for endless hours.

Thousands of regular New Zealanders (and millions around the world) have discovered the fantastic feeling of freedom from these things - the feeling of the breeze and sunlight on your skin, the relief of stress and anxiety - resulting in increased self confidence and also physical, possibly even mental, health.

Anyone can be a naturist - any race, age, shape, or background. Religion, political views, profession - none of these things are relevant - nudists come from all walks of life.

The NZNF promotes the naturist way of life throughout New Zealand with an emphasis on nude recreation being a wholesome activity for the whole family. Many families (3 generations in a lot of cases) enjoy the nudist lifestyle throughout New Zealand.

Around our beautiful country there are 17 landed member based naturist clubs; 7 naturist parks or homestays; and 3 nationwide membership organisations. There are also many beaches that, while not officially classified as nude beaches, are are recognised as clothing-optional beaches through historic use. 

Whether you are already a social nudist, a private nudist, a late night skinny-dipper or even just beginning to discover this way of life, we want to help you explore the enjoyment of clothes-free recreation and the wholesome fun of being who you truly are.

Do you have more questions about the naturist lifestyle? Keep following our blog as we will continue our journey or go to our website Naturism FAQ or Benefits of Naturism pages.

Discover the World of Nude Recreation

Remember as a young child...the seemingly endless days of summer; the sprinkler going in the backyard; off come your clothes; the squeals of delight as you run through the water; jumping in the puddles; the feel of water, sun and breeze on your bare skin; the innocent fun and pure joy?

Maybe now as an adult...you dress at the last minute before leaving home; enjoying the lasting warmth of the shower; the kiss of air against your skin; lingering for as long as possible; the blissful feeling of being free from entrapments and stress? 

Perhaps you have enjoyed a late night skinny-dip at the beach or taken advantage of a secluded spot at the river and gone for a quick swim or lie in the sun? 

If any of these brings a smile to your face or a nod of acknowledgement, then possibly you're ready to take the next step and discover the world of nude recreation.

The warmer weather is beginning. We're becoming more willing to step away from the soothing comfort of our heaters and wanting to soak up each and every ray the sun sends - getting even closer to those rays by stripping the layers of clothing back to bare skin. Yes, the time feels right for nude recreation to be front of our minds again. 

Over the next few weeks we are going to take you on a journey. We will explain what naturism and social nudity is about and what it could be for you; show you the benefits for your body and your mind; and answer some of your questions and hopefully address any concerns. 

So, if you're a new or "interested" naturist we hope to open up a new world to your minds - a world of respect and equality, of innocent joy and freedom. And if you're already a naturist, we hope you are reminded of just how wonderful your lifestyle is and you experience a renewed enthusiasm and delight.

So follow our blog - there will be another post in a couple of days - and discover the world of nude recreation.

There's all sorts of information on our website http://gonatural.co.nz/

gonatural Magazine Issue #225 June 2013

The June 2013 #225 edition of gonatural Magazine has now been printed and is in the process of being sent out. If you're a subscriber then your copy shouldn't be too far away from your letterbox, or your email that the digital version is available.

In this Issue #225:

It’s great to hear of various mid-winter dinners and other social events coming up over the next few months, indicating that although summer has finished, clubs never close and continue to socialise over autumn and winter.

Autumn also signals our end of year audit. Riveting stuff in a naturist magazine, but by now most businesses and clubs may have completed their financial accounts and will use this as a basis for planning ahead. NZNF Communications Officer, Donna Miller, provides sound practical ideas to make use of the quieter time over the winter to put your “business plan” together.

This issue features a wide range of naturist events including the 21st birthday of Alpine Lakes Naturist Club celebrated in Central Otago; Skinnydip Tours comprising 32 Australians who enjoyed the hospitality of the lower North Island; and an endless summer of fun with Bay of Plenty Naturists.

When you think of Thailand, you don’t immediately think of naturism, but with its beautiful beaches and tropical climate, it is reported to be the ideal place to practise it.

Over the ditch (the Tasman Sea that is) a houseboat on the Murray River provided the basis of a great naturist holiday for ten Auckland naturists; while back home here in Marlborough, everyone’s expectations of the Nude Adventure on the River Queen were more than exceeded with a chorus of “we’ll do this again next year”.

Nude with Attitude was launched in superb style at the Millennium Art Gallery in Blenheim to a receptive cross-section of friends, neighbours and business associates.

The Naked Overlanders crossed some pretty spectacular countryside in South Canterbury and Central Otago, taking some interesting “holiday snaps” along the way.

Still in South Canterbury - Hot Tubs in Omarama - a great place for the “wrinkly rams” to warm up after their nude dinner the previous evening.

After ten years, World Naked Bike Ride is the longest running and largest global protest that has no money backers and is run by volunteers around the world. Three rides are held in New Zealand; Golden Bay, Central Otago and Tauranga.

In the middle of March, in Middlemarch, The Orchard hosts the annual K-Cup Yankee Miniten Tournament and in Canterbury, Pineglades held a Piscean Night for several Pineglades members celebrating their birthdays under the star sign.

Next year, make a plan to take part in some of these events. Better still, plan your year ahead to include an event and tell us about it in the pages ofgonatural and on the website.

If you don't currently receive the magazine then you can subscribe to either the printed or digitial version by here. 

gonatural Magazine Issue #224 March 2013

The March 2013 #224 edition of gonatural Magazine has now been printed and sent. If you're a subscriber then you should have received your copy in the post or a notification that the digital version is available.

In this Issue #224:
A surprise luncheon was held at Auckland Outdoor Naturist club for Les Olsen who was awarded Honorary Life Membership of the New Zealand Naturist Federation.
New Year, new page...NZNF Communications Officer, Donna Miller signals a fresh and professional update to the website: www.gonatural.co.nz.
Also this wonderfully warm spell of fine weather is ideal for visitor days - Donna suggests a number of ways in which members could open their grounds and maximise the exposure of clubs to potential members and show grounds and facilities at their best.
Miniten is described as ‘the beautiful game’ at Pineglades Naturist Club which now boasts two beautifully refurbished courts. We bring you news of three attempts to secure the Skinny Dip World Record held around New Zealand during the summer; and Ken Mercer ruminates on a sporting dilemma experienced at national festivals.
Is there a difference between baloney and blarney? Find out if there is in Ireland Naturally.
Summer notes from The Orchard tell us about the fun to be had in Central Otago including the annual K Cup Miniten Tournament in Middlemarch during the middle of March.
Variety is the spice of life and aptly describes the Aquarian festival activities. Pam Griffin brings you a delightful article and several photos from the New Age of Aquarius Festival held by the Wellington Naturist Club at Te Marua.
A very special naturist wedding day was celebrated at Te Marua (Wellington Naturist Club) on Saturday 5th January with several friends and family in attendance - introducing Wendy and Nick Lowe, whose photo graces our front cover.
Somehow, many of the naturists attending the festival fitted in some naked action on the Rimutakas and Pos Shute brings you this feature. More on the Nude Dude in America - this time from DeAnza Springs.
Well known in the Australasian naturist community, Ruth and Rod Pegg have taken on the lease of Valley Naturist Bush Retreat in Far North Queensland and invite you to see and enjoy the many recent improvements to the property.

If you don't currently receive the magazine then you can subscribe to either the printed or digitial version by here. 

gonatural - December Issue #223 out now!

Hot off the press...the latest issue of gonatural Magazine has just hit letterboxes and magazine stands around the country! 

In this edition there are lots of stories and news from clubs and organisations around New Zealand as well as insights from the recent INF World Congress held at Koversada in Croatia. 

From club improvements and rejuvenation to celebrating milestones with a bang; from enjoying the great outdoors clothes-free to visiting historic gardens - the stories in this issue abound and there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

So make sure you pack this in your travel or beach bag this summer and even if you've finished reading it by then there will be something else you will get from reading it second time around!

To subscribe to receive either the printed or digital edition you can do that here.

The New Age of Aquarius is almost here...

It's a little over seven weeks until naturists from around the country, and some from around the world, get to reunite in Wellington at the 61st NZNF Rally. 

Every year the New Zealand Naturist Federation holds an annual rally to coincide with their AGM.  The rally runs for 7 days from 28 December to 3 January each year and includes a full sports programme, with trophies fiercely fought for, and the host club puts on entertainment each day and evening.

This year the Rally will be hosted by Wellington Naturist Club at their grounds in Te Marua, Upper Hutt.

The theme for the Rally is "A New Age of Aquarius"...come and celebrate with us as we farewell the last Age of Pisces and welcome in the new Age of Aquarius. 

We will be looking back at the last Age, celebrating the food, the fashion, the music, and then looking ahead to the New Age of Aquarius.

The Festival will be a chance to reconnect with old friends, make some new ones, a time to "reboot" and time to imagine what the new era could be like...and New Years Eve is going to be a blast.

The programme is exciting...from surfing hippies and Lady Gaga to Radio Gaga...there is an activity day and night to suit every "child of universe".

We want to promote a positive awareness of naturism both locally and nationally. As part of "imagining the future" we want to look at where we, as naturists, might be in the future.

There is still time to register...you can download a registration form here or contact registrations@wellingtonnaturists.co.nz for more information.

We hope to see you in Wellington and look forward to heralding the "New Age of Aquarius" with you.

Go Natural - During 'gonatural Week'

Typically the words ‘go natural’ bring thoughts of not colouring or straightening hair to mind. But to many people those same words mean an opportunity to experience the stress relieving freedom that nude recreation brings.

New Zealand Naturist Federation announces “gonatural Week” will be held nationwide from 20^th ~ 28^th October. This annual week begins on Labour Weekend, which generally signals to New Zealanders the beginning of the warmer weather.

Naturism is by definition "a way of life in harmony with nature, expressed through social nudity, linked to self-respect and tolerance of differing views together with respect for the environment”. Naturism is a holistic approach to healthy living that leads to an improvement in both physical and mental health, stemming from a person feeling better about themselves and their body.

But don’t just take our word for it.

Naturist clubs throughout the country will be celebrating their healthy lifestyle by holding various events during the week. Some clubs are holding open days inviting individuals, couples and families to visit and discover the many benefits of naturism for good health and well being - but there is no obligation to get undressed.

We hope that you can accept our invitation to visit one of these venues and have the opportunity to meet some members and to better understand what naturism is all about. And once you have, you will wonder why you didn’t ‘gonatural ‘ years ago.

To find out more about the naturist community in New Zealand, check out our website www.gonatural.co.nz or for more information about ‘gonatural Week’ please contact Donna Miller nznf.pro@gonatural.co.nz

gonatural - September Issue #222 out now!

Another eagerly anticipated issue of gonatural Magazine, packed full of interesting articles and photos, is now available.

In this issue we look ahead to the warmer months and particularly gonatural Week in October where we showcase and promote clothes free recreation. Donna, the NZNF Communications Officer, gives hints and advice for club open days and how to make the most of the opportunities provided during this annual nationwide promotion. 

Articles from around New Zealand feature in the magazine with the story of a "good southern bloke - naturally" in the magestic Central Otago region ; stories of the Bay of Plenty Sun Club members and their trip to Rainbow Mountain in the Rotorua region; The Orchard participating in World Naked Bike Ride - Otago style; and Cantabrians also have a few stories of their own after a large group bared all at Spencerville Beach.

From around the world we bring the story of walkers taking part in the 'Bay to Breakers' 12km fun run in San Francisco naked; and also an article and photos from a well known UK naturist photographer.

You can subscribe online to receive the printed version of this beautiful magazine by mail or if you prefer a digital version this can also be ordered online. The publication is also available at specialty magazine stores nationally.

Summer is going - so what now?

Summer is going, so what now?

Do we just hide away until the temperatures have returned to a level more compatible with the naturist lifestyle? No, definitely not.

There are so many opportunities and ways to continue clothes free activities in winter too - and planning your next naturist escape is just one of them. You could take a trip to a resort in northern Australia, or go even further afield to a naturist location in Europe.

OR you could get adventurous in your own back yard!

Many naturist clubs in New Zealand have regular spa or sauna afternoons/evenings, and lots have themed fancy dress social events - both of which are great ways to socialise, meeting new people, whiling away those winter hours. Then there's always the cheeky mid-winter swim! Check out the list of "what's on" featured on our website.

Those who live near Auckland have the benefit of the Parakai Springs Naturist Night (the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month) or the Palm Springs Hot Pool and Spa Night (the last Saturday of each month) towards Helensville - north-west of the city.

A long weekend or week stay at a club or naturist resort like Katikati Naturist Park or at a B&B like Wai-natur  gives the opportunity for a change of scenery along with comforts like spas or saunas close at hand. Check out the list of locations around New Zealand on our website.

And closer to home, why not work on ways you can create "hot spots" in your own space so that you can enjoy the freedom of wearing no clothes even while the rain is pouring outside? You could cover in a patio or terrace with plastic "curtains" and instal a standing outdoor heater or gas run brazier? The feeling of liberation enjoying the warmth against your skin while outside it's freezing. Make the house super warm and invite friends around for a mid-winter luncheon and games afternoon.

Gardening and doing physical outdoor jobs will keep you warm even on a sunny winter's day - so do it without clothes and it will warm your heart as well.

Whatever you do, the fun is not over. We might have to take it indoors for a while and swap a cold beer and crisp wine for hot chocolate and mulled wine, but there is much you can still do.

Although you can't beat lying on a beach soaking up the sun, that isn't all naturism is about. It's a year round lifestyle - a way of life, a state of being - and we are creative people who can adjust to the conditions. Don't ask "what now?" but "why not!" and dare to be bare - all year!