Nude cyclists rde for freedom

Nude cyclists bared all in Golden Bay this weekend to promote freedom and body awareness.

The World Naked Bike Ride on Saturday attracted about 30 naked cyclists from all over New Zealand and the world.

While the event started out 14 years ago as a protest to raise awareness for safer cycling conditions and sustainability, in Golden Bay it has slowly become a popular event for naturists, or nudists, and their clubs from around the country.

The global grassroots event takes place in 17 countries around the world. The dress code motto is “bare as you dare”. Full or partial nudity is encouraged, but not mandatory.

Participants rode the nine-kilometre route from Central Takaka to Pohara.

Organiser Jeremy Kelleher said the closure of the Takaka Hill Road last week due to severe damage by ex-cyclone Gita, and the subsequent restriction on vehicles going through, meant there were less participants than in previous years.

“So we have been promoting the event to locals, and showing the world that Takaka is open, and ready to have fun.”