Many “experts” On Sexual Problems (Press, 30 September 1968)

On 30 September 1968, at a Canterbury Association for Mental Health seminar, Mr D. F. Mackenzie, a senior research officer with the Department of Justice, addressed the complexities surrounding public perceptions of homosexuality. Speaking as an individual rather than in an official capacity, Mackenzie noted that societal attitudes towards sexual issues, particularly homosexuality, were often shaped by strong, yet misguided opinions held by even the least educated individuals. He highlighted that these views tend to be cruel, punitive, and authoritarian, stemming from a lack of understanding and sympathy. Mackenzie referred to a survey conducted in Australia, which indicated a prevailing traditional antipathy towards homosexuals, rooted in widespread misunderstanding. Many Australians harboured fears that legalising homosexuality would somehow facilitate its spread, a notion Mackenzie argued has been disproved. He emphasised that New Zealand’s strong puritanical heritage must be taken into account when analysing local attitudes towards homosexuality, as early settlers brought with them confrontational moral standards, alongside double standards for men and women regarding sexual behaviour. He pointed out that New Zealand society places immense pressure on masculinity, particularly illustrated through the cultural significance of rugby, where masculine displays are often accentuated. In the legal realm, Mackenzie outlined that while fornication, adultery and lesbian relationships between consenting adult women are subject to social moral standards, homosexuality, incest, and bestiality are classified under criminal law. He argued that regardless of legal standings, societal sanctions against homosexuality would persist. Mackenzie proposed a thorough debate on the pros and cons of legislation concerning homosexuality, with the hope that public knowledge on the matter might improve. Professor H. R. Gray, dean of the faculty of law at the University of Canterbury, affirmed Mackenzie's points by discussing the severe penalties laid out in New Zealand law for homosexual acts between males, contrasting this with the absence of legal repercussions for similar acts among adult women. He opined that the incidence of homosexual behaviour in New Zealand would not fluctuate significantly if the legal penalties for consenting adult homosexual acts were abolished. He suggested that there is a compelling argument for amending the law to eliminate sources of blackmail and to grant individuals who are homosexually oriented a better opportunity to reconcile their identity within society. Gray concluded that while reforming the law could help alleviate social stigma, it would not compromise the legal framework that serves to protect children from harm, an area where strict regulations would still be necessary. This discussion at the seminar indicates a growing recognition in 1968 of the need to reassess and reform laws related to homosexuality amidst an evolving societal understanding.

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