It's been a hectic Christmas/New Year for health promoters at the New Zealand AIDS Foundation, as they've joined hundreds of revellers at gay venues and campsites around the country to promote the safe sex message. “It's a very busy time of year. Most people are on holiday, and everyone wants to celebrate,” says NZAF National Health Promotion Manager, Te Herekiekie Herewini. “It's summer and it's not only the temperatures that are rising, guys are wanting to have fun whether it's in the bush, or at a dimly lit dance party! So it's especially important for us to continue our condom drops right through the summer period.” Health promoters from the Gay Men's Health and Hau Ora Takataapui teams worked alongside volunteers to distribute condom packs at holiday spots and beaches enjoyed by gay and bisexual men in the North Island, including Vinegar Hill and the popular Northland campsite, Uretiti. This service proved so popular that more condoms had to be ordered. Two beautiful sunny days at the clothing-optional Autumn Farm retreat in Nelson on 27-28 December saw Gay Men's Health promoters fight off fierce competition from James Bond and Doris Day on the big screen to run workshops on HIV and sexual health. The Pacific People's Project supported the sensational touring American Sevens fa'afafine troupe on their whistle-stop tour of night spots catering to the Pacific Island community in Auckland. Health promoters distributed condom packs and resources to the crowds as well as being part of the performance. New Year's Eve was also a busy night for partygoers, with 500 condom packs distributed in Auckland on K Rd at Family Bar and the JACK OFF party. The Christmas/New Year period has also seen a revival of the Beats Project, which distributes condom packs discreetly to men who use public sex venues. Regular Gay Men's Health services, such as supplying condom packs to venues and answering online sexual health questions were also maintained over the break. “We'll be continuing to encourage gay and bisexual men to keep using condoms and water-based lube for anal sex, so you can keep on enjoying the rest of the summer,” says Te Herekiekie Herewini. “Remember the best presents come wrapped, and a condom saves you from needing a HIV test when summer ends. Have a great holiday!” Ref: NZAF (m)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Wednesday, 10th January 2007 - 12:00pm