Exhibitionism and debauchery in Auckland: Ladies Bay in St Heliers

Local residents have also complained that nudists' brazen daylight antics, including public sex acts and flashing their genitals, are destroying the area.

Herald

The Eastern Suburbs of Auckland, usually associated with bourgeois sensibilities, harbours a centre of debauchery and sexual excess (apparently). As most of we Aucklanders know, Ladies Bay is a beach where nudists disport, one of several in the Auckland region. It worries me not one jot. Naturists like the sun and sand, and I'm happy that there is somewhere where they can go. The council should formalise this.

What is interesting is the intolerance shown by non-nudists, who choose to use the beach. Given the traditions associated with the place, one might well expect to see naked people if one makes the journey down to the pretty, secluded cove. Faux outrage (and the inevitable accusations that nudity leads to sexual excess) follows as prudish bourgeois feelings are offended.

We are a funny species - how can we find our own bodies 'intimidating'? Hilarious, more like.