It’s the story that has tongues wagging and people talking: a New Plymouth mother of three has started a petition to ban g-string bikinis being worn at local public pools, saying her eight-year-old was exposed to “pornographic” g-strings while at a swimming lesson.

The cheeky tog wearers weren’t skirting the rules – there’s nothing included in the aquatic centre in question’s dress code that stipulates a minimum level of coverage for bottom bathers. But the petition has sent eyebrows skywards, prompting support from some and criticism from others who feel external judgment about swimwear choice is needlessly conservative, old-fashioned and/or another example of society policing women’s bodies. You know what side we’re on!

If you want to provoke the pearl clutchers, or just fully exercise your bodily autonomy and right to wear whatever you want to, cast your eyes over these skimpy bikini bottoms that prove less really is more.

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Rachel Mills ‘belted G’ bikini bottoms, $119

Sauce Swim bikini bottoms, $110

Astro Princess thong bikini bottoms, $75

Glassons beaded tie side bikini bottoms, $20

Emroce ‘G Banga Tanga’ bikini bottoms, $50

Bond Eye bikini bottoms, $100

You Swim bikini set, $252

Cotton On Body thong bikini bottom, $25

Hunza G brazilian bikini bottoms, $185

It's Now Cool bikini bottoms, $80

Monday Swimwear thong bikini bottoms, $98