Dating Files: A 58-year-old aromantic looking for community on the Kāpiti Coast

A 58-year-old aromantic individual shares their experiences with dating and seeking community on the Kāpiti Coast. The article explores the challenges of finding non-romantic connections in a culture centered on traditional dating.
Why it matters
It highlights the growing visibility of aromantic identities and the social challenges faced by those seeking platonic community over romantic partnership.
Share Story × Share Story Facebook Twitter Bluesky Reddit Email Linkedin Whatsapp Messenger Composite image: The Spinoff ‘Mostly I’m finding: People who want a lover on the side.’
Want to be part of Dating Files? Fill out the questionnaire here .
Mostly I’m finding: People who want a lover on the side
My last serious relationship was: fifteen years ago. We mutually became less interested in the sexual and romantic aspects, and have continued the friendship aspects. Perfect.
The worst date I ever had: 1992. Trying to explain to a guy from a party that just because I was super keen on spending the wee hours prowling round the city and jumping the fence to go skinny dipping in the Centennial pools together didn’t mean I was interested in romance or sex with him. He was disappointed and left, I felt under-appreciated.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in