In the quiet seaside community of Kaka Point, a local naturist has stirred discussion by advertising nude walks in the area.
Lloyd Bonnar, the organiser of the walks, is a long-time nudist aiming to bring like-minded individuals together.
While some Kaka Point, Southland residents express discomfort, Bonnar says the practice is a harmless way to enjoy New Zealand’s great outdoors.
Bonnar, speaking to the Herald from Mount Arthur, said that naturism was about freedom.
“It’s just about getting out there and enjoying the outdoors… total freedom, to be honest. It’s fantastic.”
Bonnar emphasised that nudity in public spaces is legal in New Zealand, as long as it’s not intended to offend others.
“You’ve got to be considerate of other people,” he said.
Under the Summary Offences Act 1981, nudism is legal in New Zealand in public spaces provided it is not intended to offend or cause alarm to others.
“There are times and places that you just don’t go - like downtown or in front of a school. Beaches and other natural spaces are perfect,” said Bonnar.
“We don’t pick populated places... We try to be discreet. It’s just about enjoying the outdoors in the natural form.”
He said he had previously attracted a small group of people to the Catlins walking group, as well as to a separate walking group he held in Nelson.
Bonnar acknowledged that not everyone in the Catlin’s community was as enthusiastic about naturism.
“At the end of the day, we’re not going to please everybody. Most people just accept it and move on.”
However, not all residents are as compromising.
One resident, who did not want to be named, said the community did not condone the behaviour “at all.”
“I know a lot of other locals feel the same way. Obviously, talk goes around in the pub, and we’re not really interested in that sort of thing.”
Another resident was even more damning, alleging Bonnar was a “total exhibitionist”.
“He’s doing it to show off and trying to get people to join in with what he does... Absolutely no one is interested in him.”
The resident said, ideally, they would like to see the adverts prevented from being published.
A local accommodation host said she was not bothered as long as nudism was not practised on the main street.
“I host tour groups, and a few of my guests have mentioned seeing him. Some found it amusing, while others were more defensive about it.”
Bonnar said he remained focused on building his group and sharing his passion.
“It’s about letting people know they can do this… Once people do a little homework, they’ll understand that it’s not illegal. It’s what you do when you’re naked that matters.”
In 2022, a charge of behaving in an offensive manner against Bonnar was dismissed in the Dunedin District Court following a naked sunbathing incident that led to a confrontation, though he was charged with common assault.
In 2023, another complaint was made to the Independent Police Conduct Authority regarding Bonnar’s nudity at Kaka Point.
Bonnar also made headlines in 2007 after he fired warning shots at two burglars on his Morrinsville property.
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