Misconceptions
Definitions
- A Nudist is anyone who likes being naked
- Naturist is often used interchangebly with Nudist, but can encompass a more holistic approach to being naked. It is the term used for clubs like ours which celebrate social nudity.
- A Naturalist is someone who studies the natural world, including living and non-living things. It doesn't relate to nudity at all - the term just sounds very similar
- An Exhibitionist wants other people to see them naked
- A Voyeur is someone who likes to watch other people
Athough you can see nudity and be seen naked, we don't promote Exhibitionism or allow Voyeurism at our club. Those both imply a one-sided desire to focus on the thrill of nudity. We on the other hand just want to do every-day activities without the burden of clothing. When everyone is naked, they are all treated as equals.
Sex, swingers, and hook-ups
Social nudity does not imply sex. At our club you can enjoy a range of normal activities without the restriction of clothes. One of the benefits of this environment is being able to safely do this without judgement or unwelcome advances. This is a family-friendly space, and any public sexual activity is not permitted. Touching, staring, lewd comments, etc are also not welcome. Don't expect swingers or orgies - if your goal is to "hook up" with someone, this isn't the place for you.
Nobody should behave in a way that requires an apology. If someone starts to make you uncomfortable, please let them know it is not acceptable. Any complaint formally submitted to the committee will be taken seriously and dealt with.
Arousal
Sure, it can happen - but it almost never does, because we are not thinking about sex. We're just having a conversation, playing sports, relaxing, eating, etc. Remember: look the person in the eye, avoid sexual topics, and if all else fails - try a cold shower!
The perfect body
In reality, nobody is perfect. The people that tend to be shown in magazines are chosen because they are not typical to begin with, are artificially "enhanced" with expensive photo-shoots, make-up, or surgery - then the photos are edited to make them more appealing. Real people on the other hand come in all shapes and sizes, complete with scars, blemishes, un-evenness, etc. But that's what makes them human.
Clothing can be designed to draw your eye to certain attributes or try to cover up what you don't want people to see. But when you're naked, everyone is in the same situation and it ironically matters less what your body looks like. Rather than spending time wondering what's under someone's clothes, a quick glance can satisfy your curiousity - then you can move on and get to know the person as a whole.
Etiquette
For more information about naturist/nudist etiquette, see the NZNF gonatural.co.nz website, check our Frequently Asked Questions, or read our Club Constitution.