Nudity can cause offence and it is unfair for anyone to be surprised by a naked person running around a public place.
Cover up.
This is our message today to Tauranga's naked jogger, who appeared in the Bay of Plenty Times Weekend on Saturday about his passion for wearing no clothes.
Andrew Pointon, who
lives in the city, caused a stir when he went for a naked jog at McLaren Falls Park.
Now he wants designated areas where naturists can run and cycle without wearing clothes.
Mr Pointon was served a trespass notice for his McLaren Falls antics and given a police warning.
There is nothing wrong with naturists as a general rule. If like-minded people want to gather or go to private spots and enjoy not wearing anything, that's their business.
If people want to wander around their home wearing nothing, this is also their business, as long as no one else has to see them.
And yes, there is a slightly funny side to this. No doubt a naked man biking or running will be amusing to some people.
But a line is crossed when others are subjected to such nudity - especially if it is without warning.
Nudity can cause offence and it is unfair for anyone to be surprised by a naked person running around a public place.
Of concern, are some of Mr Pointon's comments in Saturday's paper.
"I've never had anybody confront me yet. Some people look away, some people will just smile back. Some people will stop and have a conversation."
He also says he is out "pushing boundaries".
He says he has also biked nude through Matapihi.
Why should anyone have to be confronted by this naked man? Is he trying to be provocative?
Police were right to have warned him. Most of us wear clothes and the fact remains that children could witness Mr Pointon's behaviour.
The council is unable to provide areas for nude recreation and suggests Mr Point join a private naturist group or visit a privately run camp.
This is good advice.
Mr Pointon is being selfish and should put some clothes on when in public areas where others are likely to be.
Related story: Naked jogger's fitness naturism lifestyle
