Three Decades of Freedom: Celebrating 30 Years of KNP

This Saturday, April 4th, we’re heading over to Katikati Naturist Park (KNP) for a massive milestone: their 30th Birthday and Easter Celebration. It’s a chance to look back at how a bold dream by Kevin and Joan Sampson turned into one of the crown jewels of the New Zealand naturist scene.

From The Treasury to the Trees

The story of KNP is a classic Kiwi "lifestyle change" tale. Back in the early 90s, Kevin was a financial analyst for The Treasury in Wellington. After 16 years in the capital, he and Joan decided it was high time for a change. Inspired by the naturist parks they’d seen in Europe, they bought a "messy" 5.7-hectare river block in Katikati in 1994 and rolled up their sleeves.

The 1996 "Birth"

While the land was secured in '94, the "Naked Truth" is that building a world-class park from scratch takes time. After two years of hard graft clearing the site and preparing the grounds, the Sampsons officially opened the gates in 1996. Fast forward 30 years to 2026, and that original vision has grown into a full-scale sanctuary with over 70 campsites, self-contained units, and a park motel.

Putting Naturism on the Map

KNP didn't just grow; it excelled. They put our community on the national stage by winning the 2008 New Zealand Tourism Industry Award and becoming finalists again in 2010 alongside big names like the Wellington Rugby 7s. It proved that a "clothes-free" philosophy and high-end tourism could go hand-in-hand.

A New Chapter

The park has seen a few faces come and go over the years, but it recently turned a new leaf. As of 10 June 2025, Brien Lampen-Smith has taken the helm as the new owner. Under his leadership, KNP continues to be the family-friendly, NZNF-affiliated haven that emphasizes harmony with nature.

Get Amongst the Party!

To celebrate 30 years of freedom, the park is hosting a Pot Luck Dinner this Saturday at 6-ish, followed by music and dancing.

Bring a plate, bring a tipple, and let’s toast to the pioneers who started it all and the new team taking us into the future. Cheers to 30 years!