Public takes in nude tourist sights
A photo of two suspected tourists showering naked in full view of the public in Christchurch has sparked debate.
A Sumner Community Facebook group member posted the photo on Sunday, with a call to ban tourists from the coastal seaside suburb.
The image shows two males using the outdoor facilities to bath naked while facing a main road.
Many commenters to the post took the situation lightly, stating things such as, “Just like the good old days”, “This is exactly why I love Sumner” or “Bare bottom challenge a bit early this year”.
Others addressed the legal nature of the act.
“Harden up bro, perfectly legal to be naked,” one commenter answered.
Another said, “I have a question, does this offend any of you? It is not against the law to be naked in public, it is against the law if it offends the public and this is not up to you but the arresting officer.
“I believe many of you when travelling would shower, however and wherever you could. Get over yourselves!”
A police spokesperson told the Herald there was no specific offence for being naked in public, however, anyone concerned for their safety or the safety of others should contact police.
“Each incident of nudity reported to police will be dealt with on a caseby-case basis and may fall under the following offences depending on those circumstances: Section 4 and Section 27 of the Summary Offences Act 1981, or Section 125 of the Crimes Act 1961,” the spokesman said.
Section 4 of the Summary Offences Act 1981 states people are liable to a fine not exceeding $1000 if they behave in an offensive or disorderly manner in, or within view, of any public place.
Section 27 states people can be jailed up to three months or fined up to $2000 if they intentionally and obscenely expose any part of their genitals in, or within view, of any public place.
Section 125 of the Crimes Act 1961 states people are liable to a jail term of up to two years if they wilfully do an indecent act in any place to which the public have, or are permitted to have, access or within view of any such place.
The Christchurch City Council said it was a police matter.