Naturists have no secrets to hide (+ video)

Getting butt naked in front of others to swim, picnic or play petanque may not be everyone's idea of fun.
Going naked
View video: Photoshoot at the naturist club

But ask a naturist about its appeal and words such as soothing, relaxing and liberating are offered up as reasons to go a la naturale.

Albert Wayers and June Campbell-Tong of the Wellington Naturists Club are eager to spread the word during the club's open weekend, which starts today.

People can stroll in the 15-acre grounds just north of Upper Hutt and check out the facilities, which include a spa, sauna and swimming pool. There are caravans and cabins nestled amongst native bush, along with a barbecue area and sports facilities.

Mr Wayers, the club president, said there will be a "clothes on period" between 10am and 2pm to make people feel more at ease.

He is eager to dispel notions that nudists are an airy-fairy bunch or that there is any link to sex.

Members did not always walk around in the buff – it was more of a health and wellbeing retreat, he said.

"What we get out of it is we have a lovely retreat located in the bush. If you do drop your clothes it makes a difference for it has a soothing effect and it's calming."

Mr Wayers joined the club – one of 20 in New Zealand – in 1983, a year after migrating from Holland.

Most of its 140 members are over 50 but there are also young professional couples and families.

Mrs Campbell-Tong became involved when she got engaged to her first husband, who was a member of a Christchurch club more than 40 years ago.

After being reluctant at first, she decided to try it out and she continues to enjoy the lifestyle, particularly gardening with no clothes on.

"It doesn't take long to realise it's okay to walk around without anything on," she said. "You think everybody is looking at you but they're not."

Mr Wayers said one of the biggest hurdles about the naturist lifestyle was lack of knowledge, as members did not usually talk about it.

He encouraged people to have an open mind and come along. "It's the best-kept secret in the valley."

GOING NAKED