Why go naked?
Because it feels wonderful. That's the honest answer most naturists give. But behind that simple pleasure there are real benefits for your body, your mind and how you feel about yourself.
Good for your body
Fresh air and sunshine on bare skin is about as natural as it gets.
- Short, sensible sun exposure on more skin helps your body make vitamin D.
- Skin breathes and stays drier and cooler without damp, tight fabric.
- Naturists tend to be active outdoors: swimming, walking, beach games and bush walks.
Good for your head
There's something about being naked outdoors that switches off the noise.
- Many people find it deeply relaxing and a genuine stress reliever.
- Being present in the moment, with the sun, water and breeze, is a kind of mindfulness.
- Research has linked naturist activities with greater life satisfaction.
Making peace with your body
We spend our lives comparing ourselves to filtered, airbrushed images. Naturism is the antidote.
- You see real bodies of every shape, size and age, and realise how normal yours is.
- The same research linked naturist activities with better body image and self-esteem.
- Without clothes, labels and status markers disappear. Everyone is simply a person.
It's just fun
Let's not overthink it: being naked outdoors is a joy. Feel the warm sand under you, the sun on your back and the breeze everywhere. Run into the waves with nothing to drag you down.
- Skinny-dipping is simply the best way to swim. Once you've tried it, wet togs feel ridiculous.
- No tan lines, no clammy swimsuit, no sand where sand shouldn't be.
- Naturists are a famously friendly bunch, and good company makes good days.
"It's not about being naked. It's about feeling the world around you, with nothing in between."
FAQ & etiquette
Thinking about giving it a go? Here are the questions everyone asks, and the simple rules naturists live by.
Etiquette
Do I have to be completely naked?
At a beach, no. Clothing-optional means exactly that, and plenty of people start out in togs or a sarong until they feel comfortable. At a naturist club or resort, nudity is usually expected when the weather allows, though a cover-up is fine when it's cool.
Why does everyone sit on a towel?
It's the golden rule of naturism: always put a towel down before you sit on any shared seat, chair, lounger or bench. It's simple hygiene and good manners.
Can I take photos?
Never photograph other people without their clear permission, and be careful that others aren't in the background of your shots. Many clubs don't allow cameras at all in shared areas. If in doubt, leave the phone in your bag.
How should I behave at a nude beach?
Set up a respectful distance from clothed beachgoers and other groups, keep your togs or a sarong handy for the walk in and out, don't stare, and treat people exactly as you would on any other beach. Take your rubbish home and leave the place as you found it.
Is naturism sexual?
No. Naturism is about simple, non-sexual nudity: swimming, walking, relaxing and socialising. Sexual behaviour in public is illegal and is the fastest way to get a beach closed. If you see anything inappropriate, report it to police.
What if someone is making me uncomfortable?
Move away, and if it's at a club, tell the club host or committee. Clubs take behaviour seriously and will act. At a beach, report anything lewd or threatening to police.
First-timer questions
What if my body isn't "beach-ready"?
Nobody's is, and that's the point. At a nude beach you'll see every shape, size, age, scar and wrinkle there is. Most first-timers are surprised by how quickly they stop noticing bodies at all, including their own.
Won't people stare?
Staring is considered rude among naturists, and genuinely nobody is that interested. After the first few minutes, being naked feels surprisingly ordinary.
What if I get aroused?
It's the most common worry for men, and it rarely happens: a relaxed, non-sexual setting simply isn't arousing. If it does, discreetly roll onto your front, cover up with a towel or go for a swim. Nobody will make a fuss.
Is it legal in New Zealand?
New Zealand has no official nude beaches, and simply being naked is not, of itself, an offence. What the law deals with is offensive or indecent behaviour. Stick to traditionally clothing-optional spots, be discreet and considerate, and you'll be fine.
Read our legal guide →Is it safe for women?
Naturist clubs are some of the most respectful places you'll find, with members vetted and clear codes of conduct. For beaches, many women prefer to go with a friend or a group the first time. Local naturist groups run regular beach meet-ups, which are a great way to start.
Is naturism family-friendly?
Yes. Many clubs and resorts welcome families and have strict rules to keep everyone, especially children, safe and comfortable. Families often find it gives kids a healthy, matter-of-fact attitude to bodies.
What about my period?
Many women simply use a tampon or menstrual cup with the string tucked away, while others wear swimsuit bottoms or a sarong for those days. Nobody minds either way.
What should I bring?
A big towel to sit on, SPF 50 sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, and togs or a sarong for the walk in and out. A beach umbrella or shade shelter is a good idea on New Zealand's exposed beaches.
How do I sunscreen bits that never see the sun?
Carefully and often! Skin that's always been covered burns very quickly. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50 everywhere, reapply after swimming, and keep your first sessions short.
How do I get started?
Try a quiet, well-known beach on a warm weekday, or visit a naturist club on an open day where members will show you around. Groups like Free Beaches NZ and the NZ Naturist Federation are welcoming to newcomers.
Find a place near you →