Nude doctors not for children

Makers of a calendar chock-full of naked doctors have turned to the Prostate Cancer Foundation after a children's charity refused to be linked with it.

The calendar of 12 naked male doctors, organised by Queenstown doctor Sam Hazledine, was designed to raise money for children's charity KidsCan.

But KidsCan general manager Julie Helson was horrified, saying it had never agreed to be associated with the calendar and saw it as inappropriate.

"We appreciate they are trying to do a positive thing here, but you can't just take money from anyone. We see it as something that's more suited to a men's health group or charity. It's just one of those things that's not appropriate for young children."

However, Dr Hazledine said: "The brief was simple: no clothes, and no bits showing."

Wellington GP Barney Montgomery was captured performing a daring high kick that reveals just the soles of his feet.

Dr Hazledine, who appears in the calendar as Dr December, said he understood KidsCan's concern.

"In retrospect, we have realised this calendar is not the right initiative to raise money for a children's charity.

"KidsCan is a fantastic charity that does a huge amount of good, but this is not the right thing."

He said all proceeds from the 1000 calendars would now go to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand.

"I can't grow facial hair so I couldn't participate in Movember, so I'm pleased to be able to contribute to such a great cause in a different way."

Prostate Cancer Foundation president Barry Young said it would be happy to accept money from the calendar sales.

The calendars, which cost $27 each, can be ordered through medrecruit.com.

- © Fairfax NZ News