Homosexuality “present Law A Nuisance” (Press, 31 October 1968)

On 29 October 1968, a public meeting in Auckland discussed the possibility of reforming the law on homosexuality, with speakers advocating for a more expedited approach through a private member's bill rather than waiting for government action. Auckland barrister Mr F. Halgh commented that New Zealand's legal position on homosexuality was lagging approximately five years behind that of Britain. He highlighted the potential for private members' bills to facilitate change more swiftly. Dr R. Culpan, a consultant psychiatrist, expressed his frustration with the existing law, describing it as a "jolly nuisance" that aggravated the issues faced by individuals due to its additional legal sanctions. He believed that these legal barriers complicated therapeutic efforts aimed at helping those affected. Another speaker, Mr E. Braithwaite, a senior university lecturer, contributed to the discourse, while the meeting was chaired by the Rev. R. Thornley. The gathering, convened by the Rev. D. Brindon, resulted in the formation of an Auckland branch of the New Zealand Homosexual Law Reform Society. The attendees decided to send a telegram to the chairman of the Parliamentary Petitions Committee in Wellington, expressing their support for a petition calling for homosexual law reform currently under consideration by the committee.

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