Code of Conduct

1. Our Philosophy

Hibiscus Coast Naturists exists to provide a safe, welcoming space for naturists in the Rodney and Hibiscus Coast area of Aotearoa New Zealand. Our group is guided by the internationally recognised definition of naturism:

"Naturism is a way of life in harmony with nature, expressed through social nudity, and characterised by the practice of non-judgement, which aims to promote self-respect, respect for others, and care for the environment."

Everything in this code of conduct flows from that definition. Naturism is about freedom, respect, and connection — not exhibition or titillation.

2. Core Principles

3. Respect & Consent

Consent is foundational to our group. This means:

• Never touch another person without their clear, enthusiastic consent.
• Respect personal space and do not intrude on conversations or activities uninvited.
• Accept "no" gracefully. A refusal of any kind — whether to interact, to be photographed, or to participate in an activity — must be respected immediately and without argument.
• Staring at other people's bodies is disrespectful. Conduct yourself as you would in any social setting where nudity is incidental, not the focus.
• If you are unsure whether something is appropriate, ask yourself: "Would I be comfortable if someone did this to me?" If not, don't do it.

4. Nudity & Clothing

Nudity is the norm at most group events, but it is never compulsory. We understand that newcomers may prefer to remain clothed or partially clothed, especially at their first event, and this is completely acceptable.

• Nudity should feel natural and comfortable — never pressured or coerced.
• Sit on a towel when using shared seating or furniture. This is standard naturist etiquette and a basic hygiene practice.
• Clothing is always appropriate for warmth, sun protection, or personal comfort.
• At events held in shared or public spaces (such as beaches), be mindful of the law and the presence of non-naturists.

5. Photography & Recording

Photography and video recording at group events are governed by a strict consent policy.

• Cameras and recording devices (including smartphones) must not be used to photograph or film other attendees without their prior, explicit permission.
• Even with consent, images must not be shared publicly — including on social media — without a separate, specific agreement from all identifiable people in the image.
• Consent to be photographed may be withdrawn at any time. Previously taken images must be deleted on request.
• Photographs of landscape, nature, or group activities where individuals are not identifiable may be taken and shared with general group consent.
• Any attendee found to be taking or sharing photographs without consent will be asked to leave immediately and may be permanently excluded from the group.

6. Children & Young People

The safety, dignity, and wellbeing of children and young people (under 18) is our highest priority.

• Children must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or legal guardian at all times at group events.
• Adults other than parents/guardians should not engage in physical contact with children without parental consent and the child's own agreement.
• Photography of children is prohibited without explicit written consent from a parent or legal guardian.
• Any adult who is uncomfortable around children, or any child who shows signs of discomfort, should have their needs accommodated immediately.
• Any concern about the safety or welfare of a child must be reported immediately to the event organiser, and if necessary to Oranga Tamariki (0508 326 459) or the Police (111).

Our group is committed to the principles of the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989 and the Vulnerable Children Act 2014.

7. Behaviour & Language

We expect all attendees to conduct themselves in a way that is considerate, courteous, and inclusive.

• Harassment in any form — verbal, physical, or online — will result in immediate removal and potential permanent exclusion.
• Offensive language, slurs, or comments that demean any person or group are not acceptable.
• Do not attend any event while intoxicated. Disruptive or aggressive behaviour under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be tolerated.
• Disputes between members should be resolved calmly and respectfully. If this is not possible, involve the event organiser.
• Gossip, rumour, or disparaging talk about other members — at events or elsewhere — is contrary to the spirit of our group.

8. Social Media & Online Conduct

The values in this code of conduct extend to all online interactions relating to the group:

• Do not share any information that could identify another member of the group without their consent. This includes naming them in social media posts, check-ins, or photographs.
• Do not post images from group events on social media without the explicit consent of all identifiable individuals in the image.
• Online communications to or about other members must adhere to the same standards of respect and courtesy expected in person.
• If you become aware of content online that breaches this code — for example, photographs taken without consent — please report it to the group organisers.

9. Alcohol & Substances

• Moderate, responsible alcohol consumption is permitted at social events where it is explicitly made available or permitted by the host.
• The use of illegal substances at group events is prohibited.
• Intoxication to a degree that affects behaviour or the comfort of others is grounds for being asked to leave.
• Event hosts reserve the right to determine the alcohol policy for their specific event.

10. Environmental Responsibility

As naturists, we have a deep respect for the natural world that underlies our lifestyle. We ask all attendees to:

• Leave all natural spaces exactly as you found them — or better.
• Take all rubbish with you when leaving outdoor venues.
• Avoid disturbing wildlife, vegetation, and natural features.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen products when attending beach events.
• Respect any specific environmental guidelines provided by event hosts or land managers.

11. Complaints Procedure

We take all complaints seriously and aim to resolve them fairly, sensitively, and confidentially.

How to make a complaint

1. If you feel safe to do so and the matter is minor, raise the concern directly and calmly with the person involved.
2. If this is not appropriate or possible, speak privately with the event organiser.
3. You may also submit a complaint in writing via our contact form.

How complaints are handled

• All complaints are treated as confidential and handled with discretion.
• The complainant and the subject of the complaint will both have an opportunity to be heard.
• Outcomes may include a verbal or written warning, suspension from events, or permanent exclusion, depending on the severity of the breach.
• Where a complaint involves a potential criminal matter (including matters relating to child safety), it will be referred to Police.

12. Consequences of Breach

Breaches of this Code of Conduct will be taken seriously. The consequences depend on the nature and severity of the breach and may include:

• Verbal warning — for minor or first-time breaches.
• Written warning — documented and retained.
• Suspension — temporary exclusion from events for a defined period.
• Permanent exclusion — the person is removed from the group with no right of return. No membership fees will be refunded.
• Referral to authorities — where the conduct may be criminal.

The group organisers reserve the right to ask any person to leave an event at any time if their behaviour is deemed harmful, disruptive, or contrary to this code of conduct, even if no formal complaint has been made.