Ask a naturist why they do it and you'll usually get a shrug and a smile: it just feels good. But there's more to it than that. Here's what people tend to get from spending a little time in the fresh air without clothes.
Sunlight & vitamin D
Your skin makes vitamin D from sunlight. Sensible, short sun exposure on more skin can help you top up, especially after a long Kiwi winter indoors.
Body confidence
Seeing real bodies of every shape and age is a powerful antidote to airbrushed ones. Research has linked naturist activities with better body image, self-esteem and life satisfaction.
Stress relief
Warm sun, a sea breeze and nothing to adjust or tug at. Many people find it one of the most relaxing ways to spend an afternoon and switch off from screens and schedules.
Closer to nature
Feeling sand, water and air directly on your skin is a different experience altogether. From bush pools to empty beaches, Aotearoa is made for it.
Equality & community
Without brands, uniforms and dress codes, nobody is judged on what they wear. Naturist clubs and beaches are famously friendly and welcoming places.
Simple joys
No clammy wet togs, no tan lines, no sand in your swimsuit, and a lot less laundry. Skinny-dipping is simply a nicer way to swim.
The sunshine vitamin
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium for strong bones and muscles, and it plays a part in your immune system and mood. Very little comes from food: most of it is made in your skin when it's exposed to the sun's UVB rays.
Modern life keeps most of us indoors and covered up, and plenty of New Zealanders have lower vitamin D levels than they should, particularly by late winter and early spring. The more skin that sees the sun, the less time you need in it, so a short spell with less on can be a smart way to top up.
- September to April: get your sun earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon, when UV is lower.
- May to August: a little midday sun on bare skin helps, as UV is much weaker in winter.
- A little goes a long way: short, regular exposure beats long sessions. Never let your skin burn.
Be SunSmart: our UV is fierce
New Zealand's UV levels are among the highest in the world, and skin that rarely sees the sun burns fast. Use broad-spectrum SPF 50 on everything that's exposed (yes, everything), find shade in the middle of the day, and wear a hat and sunglasses. See SunSmart NZ for daily UV guidance.
This page is general information, not medical advice. If you're concerned about your vitamin D levels or skin health, talk to your GP.